GHT FAR WEST UPPER TREK(API SAIPAL HUMLA )

Overview

The Api Saipal trek is one of the most challenging and least-explored trekking routes in western Nepal, forming part of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) in the Far West region. This trek begins at the Mahakali River and concludes at the Karnali River in Humla, Simikot. It traverses two distinct mountain ranges: the Api Mountain Range, which stretches east from the Mahakali River to the Sati River, and the Saipal Mountain Range, extending east from the Sati River to the Humla Karnali River. The trek takes adventurers through remote and rugged landscapes, passing through the southern side of Api Himal and the northern side of Saipal Himal. Due to its remoteness, the region has seen very few tourists, with most GHT travelers stopping at Hilsa, missing the spectacular Api Saipal section. However, efforts are being made to promote this hidden gem. The trail begins at Sunsera, Mahakali, proceeding south of Api Himal, north of Surma Sarovar, and east of Urai Pass before reaching the north side of Saipal Mountain.

Section One: Api Himal Trek

The Api Himal trek is an isolated journey leading to the base camp of Api Himal, the tallest peak in the region at 7,132 meters. The trek starts from Makarighad in Darchula district and offers breathtaking views of peaks such as Kap Chuli (6,680 m), Nampa I, II, and III, Bobaya Chuli (6,808 m), and Jethi-Bahurani (6,850 m). Despite its stunning beauty, this trek remains relatively unknown, making it a unique cultural and natural experience.

Local folklore tells of a saint named Chamaliya who meditated at the base of Api Himal, where a spring emerged, forming the Chaulani River. Hindu mythology also ties the river’s origins to Lord Shiva, adding to the site's religious significance. Every year, during Shukla Purnima in the month of Shrawan, the Surma Bhawani festival takes place at Surma Sarovar, attracting devotees from Darchula, Bajhang, and nearby regions.

The trek provides an opportunity to interact with the indigenous Khas communities, such as the Bohara, Lothyal, and Khagare, who speak the Chhetri language and uphold unique cultural traditions. These communities traditionally wove their own clothing and adorned themselves with intricate jewelry. The journey also takes trekkers through fast-flowing rivers, the sacred Kalidhunga Lake, and pristine forests teeming with biodiversity. With its isolation and challenging terrain, the Api Himal trek remains an adventure suited for seasoned trekkers looking for a truly untouched Himalayan experience.

Section Two: Kalagar to Surma to Urai Base  (Surma Section )

This section takes trekkers deeper into remote and rugged landscapes, beginning from Chhitti Kalagar (Thadul) with options to conclude at Bijgada or continue toward Bire Odar-Surma-Nilkatti Passa-Urai Base (Fedi). The trail winds through pristine wilderness, remote villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery, offering an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience.

The journey passes through tranquil spots like Gaisera, Naya, and Chaurpani, culminating in an ascent to the Urai La Base Camp (4,524 meters). Camping under the vast Himalayan sky, trekkers experience solitude and stunning panoramic views. From Urai Base, one can either venture north to Saipal or return via Naya to Chainpur, Bajhang.

Section Three: Saipal North Side Trek

From Urai La Base Camp, the trek enters the northern face of Mount Saipal (7,031 meters), one of Nepal's most remote high-altitude trekking destinations. This section presents a true Himalayan expedition, crossing dramatic mountain passes, untouched valleys, and high-altitude terrain.

The journey begins with a steep climb to Chaupha Col (5,216 meters), offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks. A descent into Valley Camp follows, leading to Thado La (5,308 meters), a challenging yet rewarding experience in extreme altitudes. Continuing along rugged ridgelines, trekkers cross Khatri La Pass (5,332 meters) before arriving at Karan Taal (4,963 meters), a stunning glacial lake tucked within the Himalayas.

Descending from the high-altitude wilderness, the trail reaches the remote settlement of Chala before transitioning into the lower valleys. A scenic drive from Chala to Salli Khola provides a gradual shift from the isolated mountain landscapes to more accessible regions. A short trek to Chungsa Khola Camp offers a final taste of the serene wilderness before concluding the journey with a drive to Simikot, the gateway to Nepal’s Far West.

Conclusion

The Api Saipal trek is a physically demanding yet rewarding expedition that unveils some of Nepal’s most untouched and awe-inspiring landscapes. With towering mountain passes, dramatic ridgelines, and serene glacial lakes, this trek is a rare opportunity to experience the raw and untamed beauty of the Far West. For adventurers seeking solitude and an off-the-grid Himalayan experience, the Api Saipal trek is a journey like no other.

 

GHT Far West (Api Saipal Simikot Treks) – Full Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (Flight - 1 hour) & Drive to Dadeldhura

• Travel: Morning flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi. After arrival, take a scenic drive to Dadeldhura.
• Accommodation: Hotel/Guesthouse in Dadeldhura.
• Highlights: The Terai lowlands transitioning to mid-hills and glimpses of the Far West's lush greenery.

Day 2: Dadeldhura to Darchula

• Travel: Early morning drive from Dadeldhura to Darchula, a remote border town with India.
• Accommodation: Guesthouse in Darchula.
• Highlights: Picturesque hills, local rural settlements, and Himalayan views.

Day 3: Darchula to Sunsera (Jeep Drive)

• Travel: A half-day drive through rugged terrain, reaching the village of Sunsera.
• Accommodation: Tea house/homestay.
• Highlights: Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Api Saipal range.

Day 4: Sunsera to Thisain

• Trek: Begin your trek from Sunsera to Thisain, passing through dense forests and charming villages.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Forest walks, wildlife sightings, and peaceful rural landscapes.

Day 5: Thisain to Phultiban

• Trek: Continue trekking through beautiful highland meadows and forests to reach Phultiban.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Expansive views of the Himalayas and untouched natural beauty.

Day 6: Phultiban to Siti

• Trek: Trek through alpine terrain to reach the remote village of Siti.
• Accommodation: Homestay/Camping.
• Highlights: Experience local culture and views of surrounding peaks.

Day 7: Siti to Simar

• Trek: A scenic day of trekking from Siti to the village of Simar.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Stunning vistas of the Api and Saipal mountains.

Day 8: Simar to Dhauli Odar

• Trek: Trek to Dhauli Odar, a lesser-explored destination nestled in the lap of the mountains.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Remote mountain beauty, alpine meadows, and wildlife.

Day 9: Dhauli Odar to Api Base Camp and Return to Dhauli Odar

• Trek: Full-day trek to Api Base Camp and return to Dhauli Odar.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Awe-inspiring views of Api Himal (7,132 m) and surrounding peaks.

Day 10: Dhauli Odar to Khaikot

• Trek: Descend to Khaikot, passing through serene forests and pasturelands.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Amazing flora and fauna along the trail.

Day 11: Khaikot to Thumti

• Trek: Continue trekking to Thumti, a small village in the region.
• Accommodation: Homestay/Camping.
• Highlights: Cultural encounters with locals, mountain views.

Day 12: Thumti to Chhitti

• Trek: A moderate trek to Chhitti village, traversing rivers and ridges.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Peaceful and scenic landscapes.

Day 13: Chhitti to Bire Odar

• Trek: Trek to Bire Odar through varied terrain, surrounded by wilderness.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Off-the-beaten-path adventure and mountain scenery.

Day 14: Bire Odar to Gaisera

• Trek: Continue the trek to Gaisera, a quiet, remote area.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Isolated landscapes and tranquility.

Day 15: Gaisera to Naya

• Trek: Trek to Naya, a village nestled in the heart of the mountains.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Stunning mountain views and remote village life.

Day 16: Naya to Chaurpani

• Trek: Hike from Naya to Chaurpani, a beautiful spot surrounded by nature.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Scenic beauty of the highlands and alpine wilderness.

Day 17: Chaurpani Phat to Camp on Ridge (After Dahachaur)

• Trek: A challenging trek to a camp on the ridge after Dahachaur.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Spectacular panoramic views and alpine adventures.

Day 18: Camp on Ridge to Urai La Base Camp

• Trek: Trek to the Urai La Base Camp at an altitude of 4,524 meters.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: High mountain passes and stunning Himalayan vistas.

Day 19: Urai La Base Camp to Valley Camp (Confluence of Khola) via Chaupha Col

• Trek: Cross the Chaupha Col (5,216 meters) and reach Valley Camp at the confluence of Khola.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: High-altitude trekking with awe-inspiring views of snow-covered peaks.

Day 20: Valley Camp to Thado La and Back

• Trek: Trek to Thado La (5,308 meters) and return to Valley Camp.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Extreme altitude trekking and stunning mountain scenery.

Day 21: Valley Camp to Rai Dungha (Near Phirankoph Khola)

• Trek: Trek to Rai Dungha near Phirankoph Khola via the ridge between Thado Khola and Syanbang Khola.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Ridge walks with captivating views of the mountains.

Day 22: Rai Dungha Camp to Karan Taal via Khatri La

• Trek: Cross Khatri La (5,332 meters) and reach Karan Taal at 4,963 meters.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Spectacular glacial lakes and high-altitude beauty.

Day 23: Karan Taal to Chala

• Trek: Descend to Chala, a remote and beautiful spot.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Remote wilderness and stunning scenery.

Day 24: Chala to Salli Khola Hotel

• Travel: A scenic drive from Chala to Salli Khola.
• Accommodation: Hotel.
• Highlights: Relax in comfort after days of trekking.

Day 25: Salli Khola Hotel to Chungsa Khola Camp

• Trek: A short trek from Salli Khola to Chungsa Khola Camp.
• Accommodation: Camping.
• Highlights: Peaceful riverside camp and natural beauty.

Day 26: Chala to Simikot

• Travel: Drive by jeep to Simikot, the gateway to the Far West.
• Accommodation: Guesthouse in Simikot.
• Highlights: Scenic drive through the Himalayas.

Day 27: Simikot to Nepalgunj

• Travel: Morning flight from Simikot to Nepalgunj.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Nepalgunj.
• Highlights: Rest and relax in Nepalgunj.

Day 28: Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

• Travel: Take a flight from Nepalgunj back to Kathmandu.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
• Highlights: Return to the capital and relax.

This itinerary offers a deep exploration of the remote and beautiful Far West of Nepal, including the majestic Api Saipal range, high mountain passes, remote villages, and some of the least explored trekking areas in the Himalayas.

Permit :

First Section:  Mahakali Sunsera to Api bc and Chhiti  village- Kalagar   (Api Conservation + Api Rural Municipality )

Second Section  kalagar to Saipal chour - Urai Base  (Saipal Restricted area Permit )

Third Section: Urai  Base  toYari or Smikot  (Humla Permit )

Season :Sept to Oct  or March April May .