Api Himal Base Camp Trek

Who the Api Himal Base Camp trek suits

Api Himal Base Camp is one of Nepal's most remote treks, in Darchula in the far-western corner of the country. The route follows the Mahakali river, which forms the border with India, then climbs through forest and pasture to around 4,000 m at the base of Api Himal (7,132 m) in the Api Nampa Conservation Area. You'll pass through villages that see very few foreigners. Full details are on Discover Parbat's Api Himal Base Camp Trek page.

It's challenging, mostly because of the remoteness: long travel days to get there, basic homestays and camping instead of teahouses, and few people around if something goes wrong. It suits experienced trekkers who want true wilderness and culture far from the crowds.

Do you need a guide or permit?

The only permit you need is the Api Nampa Conservation Area permit. No restricted-area permit and no TIMS card. See the 2026 rules.

A guide isn't legally required, but we'd strongly recommend one here. Trails are unmarked, there are no teahouses on the upper sections, food and camping need arranging, and few people speak English.

Best months, and when it's easiest to find a partner

The best windows are April–May and October–November. In the monsoon the roads into Darchula are often blocked by landslides, and in winter the upper route is snowbound.

Very few trekkers go to Api Himal in any season, so you won't meet partners on the trail. Plan it as a team from the start: post your dates a month or more ahead.

Doing Api Himal with a partner

• Why it matters here: remote treks cost more for one person. A partner splits the guide, porters, camping gear and the long private transport into Darchula.
• Where to meet: Kathmandu, or Dhangadhi if you're both flying west. From there it's a long road journey north.
• Agree on contingency days: roads and weather in the far west are unpredictable. Build in spare days and agree how you'll handle delays.
• Don't split up on this trek. There's nobody else on the trail to fall back on.