Api Himal Base-Camp Treks - Snow Bank Adventure Pvt. Ltd.

Snow Bank Adventure Pvt Ltd

Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel in Kathmandu/Tea House during Trek
Max Height: 3900
Best Season: Spring/ Autumn
Trip Grade: Moderate

Trip Duration: 11 Days
Transportation: Car/Jeep/Flight
Activities: Trekking
Start/End Point: Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Trip Overview

The Api Himal Base Camp Trek is a calm and beautiful trip in the far-western part of Nepal. Not many travelers visit this area. It is far from big cities and modern things. This makes it perfect for people who love nature and want a quiet adventure. Unlike busy places like Everest or Annapurna, this trek feels wild and real. You get to see amazing landscapes, learn about local culture, and visit a special place called Kali Dhunga Lake.

The trek takes you through villages, thick forests, river valleys, and open grassy areas. You walk all the way to the base of Mount Api, which is 7,132 meters high. The area is full of natural beauty. You see green hills, waterfalls, snow-covered peaks, and high lakes. You might spot blue sheep or colorful Himalayan birds like the monal. This trek is special for people who want to explore Nepal’s wild side and feel its spiritual power. The local people, mostly Byansi, Chhetri, and Dalit, follow Hindu and Buddhist ways. They are kind and welcome you with smiles. They might offer you tea or show you their farms.

This region is very remote. There are fewer comforts than in big trekking areas. But that’s part of the fun. You stay in simple teahouses or tents. You eat local food like dal bhat or potatoes. You walk on old paths used by villagers and shepherds. The area feels spiritual. Many pilgrims visit Kali Dhunga Lake. They believe it brings blessings and heals them. The quiet forests, fresh mountain air, and peaceful views connect you to nature and your heart.

The trip starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadi. Then you take long but pretty drives through small towns and hills to reach the trek’s start. You walk through quiet villages like Ghusa, Simar, and Dhuli Odar. You reach Api Base Camp and hike to Kali Dhunga Lake at 4,000 meters. The lake is calm and holy. The return path goes through Khaikot and Khandeshwar. You meet more locals and see their simple, green way of life.

The trek can be hard at times, especially at high places. But the rewards are big. You walk through peaceful pine forests. You see snow peaks above the clouds. You feel like you’re in a different world. The people here are strong. They live far from cities with few things, yet they always help and smile. Snow Bank Adventure plans everything. They get permits, food, transport, and guides. You just enjoy the journey. This trek is great for people who want a rare adventure, rich culture, wild beauty, and spiritual peace under the Himalayas.

The best time to go is March to May or September to November. These months have clear skies. The weather is nice, not too hot or cold. Spring brings colorful flowers. Autumn has cool, fresh air. In winter, from December to February, it snows at high spots. Paths can be icy. Bring warm clothes like jackets, hats, and gloves. In the rainy season, from June to August, it rains a lot. Mud makes walking tricky. Carry a raincoat and shoes with good grip. Check the weather before you start. Pack a small bag with water, snacks, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat. Wear comfy clothes and layers. The high altitude might make you feel dizzy. Drink water, rest, and go slow.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Nepal at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
Day 2: Trek Preparation and Explore Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly to Dhangadi and drive to Attariya – 1 to 2 hours.
Day 4: Drive to Ganna, Darchula (1,100 meters) – 6 to 7 hours.
Day 5: Drive to Makarigaad (1,300 meters) and trek to Ghusa (1,800 meters) – 2 to 3 hours walk.
Day 6: Trek to Simar (Ghopte) (2,200 meters) – 5 to 6 hours.
Day 7: Trek to Dhuli Odar (2,800 meters) – 6 to 7 hours.
Day 8: Trek to Api Base Camp (3,900 meters) and hike to Kali Dhunga Lake (4,000 meters) – 7 to 8 hours.
Day 9: Trek back to Khaikot (2,500 meters) – 5 to 6 hours.
Day 10: Trek back to Ghusa (1,800 meters) – 5 to 6 hours.
Day 11: Trek to Khandeshwar (1,500 meters) – 4 to 5 hours.
Day 12: Trek to Makarigaad (1,300 meters) and drive to Gokule (300 meters) – 2 to 3 hours walk, 1 to 2 hours drive.
Day 13: Drive back to Dhangadi – 5 to 6 hours.
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu

Details Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Nepal at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
You arrive at Kathmandu Airport. A Snow Bank Adventure person meets you with a smile. They help you go to your hotel. The room has a soft bed and warm blankets. Rest after your flight. Take a nap or unpack. In the evening, walk around Thamel. It has shops, food stalls, and bright lights. Buy a small gift like a bracelet. Enjoy a welcome dinner with music and dance. You stay in a hotel. You get dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Trek Preparation and Explore Kathmandu

You eat breakfast at the hotel with yummy tea and bread, then get ready for the trek and explore Kathmandu. First, check your gear with the guide, bringing a backpack, warm clothes, good shoes, a water bottle, and a hat, while the guide helps you pack light and safe, offering tips like wearing layers and carrying sunscreen, and you can restock snacks or buy a map if needed; after preparing, start a fun day visiting different places: Kathmandu Durbar Square with old palaces and carvings, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) where monkeys play and bells ring.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Fly to Dhangadi and Drive to Attariya – 1 to 2 hours
You eat breakfast. Then you fly to Dhangadi in a small plane. The flight takes 1 hour and shows pretty views. After landing, drive to Attariya in a jeep. The trip takes 1 to 2 hours. You see green fields and small rivers. Relax and get ready for tomorrow.

Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Drive to Ganna, Darchula (1,100 meters) – 6 to 7 hours
You eat breakfast early. Then you start a long drive to Ganna in Darchula district. The trip takes 6 to 7 hours. You pass lush forests, rivers, and rolling hills. Stop to stretch or eat a snack. You see farmers working and kids waving. Ganna is your first taste of remote Nepal.

Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Drive to Makarigaad (1,300 meters) and Trek to Ghusa (1,800 meters) – 2 to 3 hours walk
You eat breakfast. Then drive to Makarigaad in a jeep. The trip takes 1 hour. Start walking through forest paths and villages. The walk takes 2 to 3 hours. You see green trees and hear birds. You reach Ghusa, a quiet village with stone houses. Meet locals and rest.

Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Trek to Simar (Ghopte) (2,200 meters) – 5 to 6 hours
You eat breakfast. Then you walk through rhododendron and pine forests. The flowers are bright in spring. You hear birds chirping and might see a monal. The path is peaceful and takes 5 to 6 hours. You reach Simar, a small spot with tents. Enjoy the distant snow peaks.

Accommodation: Tent or Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Trek to Dhuli Odar (2,800 meters) – 6 to 7 hours
You eat breakfast. The trail goes up to open land and rocky slopes. The view changes to wide hills. The walk takes 6 to 7 hours. You reach Dhuli Odar, meaning “White Cave.” It’s a quiet, pretty place with a cave. Set up camp and rest. You might see blue sheep.

Accommodation: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Trek to Api Base Camp (3,900 meters) and Hike to Kali Dhunga Lake (4,000 meters) – 7 to 8 hours
You eat breakfast early. This is the best day. You walk 5 hours to Api Base Camp. See Mount Api and other peaks up close. Then hike 2 to 3 hours to Kali Dhunga Lake at 4,000 meters. The lake is calm and holy. Pilgrims pray here. Feel the quiet power. Take photos and rest.

Accommodation: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Trek Back to Khaikot (2,500 meters) – 5 to 6 hours
You eat breakfast. Then you walk down 5 to 6 hours to Khaikot. The path is easier. You pass forests and streams. Reach the last village. Talk to locals about their mountain life. They might share stories or offer milk.

Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Trek Back to Ghusa (1,800 meters) – 5 to 6 hours
You eat breakfast. Then you walk 5 to 6 hours back to Ghusa. Enjoy the forests, rivers, and hill views again. You might see deer or hear waterfalls. Rest in the village and meet friendly people.

Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Trek to Khandeshwar (1,500 meters) – 4 to 5 hours
You eat breakfast. Then you walk 4 to 5 hours to Khandeshwar. The trail goes through farmland and traditional homes. See women weaving or men working fields. Learn about their simple life.

Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Trek to Makarigaad (1,300 meters) and Drive to Gokule (300 meters) – 2 to 3 hours walk, 1 to 2 hours drive
You eat breakfast. Walk 2 to 3 hours down to Makarigaad. The path is easy. Then drive 1 to 2 hours to Gokule in a jeep. Celebrate your trek with a rest. Buy a local craft or try tea.

Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Drive Back to Dhangadi – 5 to 6 hours
You eat breakfast. Then drive 5 to 6 hours back to Dhangadi. Pass hills, valleys, and small villages. Stop to stretch or buy fruit. Enjoy town comforts after your adventure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Dhangadi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Fly Back to Kathmandu
You eat breakfast. Then fly back to Kathmandu in a small plane. The flight takes 1 hour with nice views. Rest, shop in Thamel for souvenirs like prayer flags, or enjoy a last Nepali meal. You stay in a hotel. You get breakfast.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cost Details

What’s Included?

You get picked up and dropped off at Kathmandu Airport.
You get farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
You get a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with a guide and car.
You get a licensed English-speaking guide and local porters.
You get all permits and trekking papers.
You get a first-aid kit and safety gear.
All government taxes and fees are included.

What’s Not Included?

You pay for your flight to Nepal.
You pay for your Nepal visa at the airport.
You need your own travel and health insurance.
You pay for drinks like bottled water, soft drinks, or alcohol.
You pay for Wi-Fi and phone charging on the trek.
You pay for personal things like snacks, laundry, or tips.
You pay extra for emergency help like a helicopter if needed.
You can give tips to the guide and porter if you want.

FAQ

Some brief statistics related to Nepal

The country Nepal spread east to west. It lies between Chain and India. The land area of Nepal is 1,47,512km2. It is the second biggest country in water sources. The current population of Nepal is 2,90,00,000. Among them 34% < 15yrs, 61% from 15-64yrs, 5% > 64yrs & 1,800 births/day. More than 125 languages and local dialects are spoken but Nepali is the most speaking language in Nepal. English is understood in tourist and trekking areas. Many trekking and tour guides can speak other western and eastern languages. Religions: Hindus are 81%, Buddhists are 9%(especially living in high Northern regions), Muslims are 4.5%, and Christians are1.4%. Land area:-1,47,181km2 Low Terai 20.1%, Middle Hills 56.2%, High Himalaya 23.7%, Arable land 16.8%, Forest 25.4% Time Zone: Nepal is 5’45” ahead from GMT and 15 minutes faster than Indian Time.

When is the best season of the year to visit Nepal?

There are two main trekking seasons in Nepal. Spring (From 3rd week of February to 1st week of May) and autumn(From 3rd week of September to 1st week of December ). These seasons are common to all trekking routes. The Everest and Annapurna regions are very crowded during march-April and mid-October to the end of November. The weather is warm with flowers in rain shadow areas during the monsoon seasons. But the flooding and landslide can be damaged to the mountain road which can make major delay in time schedule. Leeches also found in lower trails during the monsoon that can make uncomfortable while walking. The trekkers can explore all year round in Mustang but are cold from December to the beginning of March. Likewise, Dolpo can be visited from mid of August to the first week of October. Poon Hill and Helambu like short treks can do during the winter( December to February) but it is cold at night. It is also possible for Annapurna, Manaslu, and Everest Base camp treks but the weather is very cold which makes the treks to tough. The biggest season of tourist from October to December which is the best time to capture mountain views. There is also good temperature and clear sky after the monsoon. The Middle Hills and Terai region ( Chitwan National Park and Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha) is the best time to explore in winter.

Culture and Festivals in Nepal

There are different races of people inhabitant in Nepal. So that they are having different culture and also celebrating different festivals throughout the country. You can found differ in culture and festivals by their religion too. The Hindu celebrates Dashain and Tihar which is held in October and November. Likewise, Buddist celebrates Loshar at different times. Gurungs and Tamangs are enjoying January and Sherpas are celebrating the month of February. But you can found some common festivals like holly(color’s festival) celebrating in every religion which held at end of February and March. You can get a chance to observe some cultural festivals like Indrejatra and Janai Purnima in August and Shiva Ratri in February. So many other festivals are celebrating throughout the country.

What types of travel documents are required for Nepal?

A six-month valid passport with some blank pages for a stamping visa is required. Do not forget to check your passport where correctly stamped arrival, departure, passport number, and visa date to avoid the possibility of complications. VISA Nepal provides an arrival visa at Tribhuvan International Airport. But you should complete the visa form with a recent passport size photo and pay the visa fee in foreign currency, preferably USD. Other major currencies are also acceptable. A single entry visa fee cost is 15 days USD 25.00 30 days USD 40.00 90 days USD 100.00 A foreigner can stay a maximum of 150 days in a calendar year. They can be extended visa from the Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. A minimum extension is USD 30.00(to be paid in Nepalese rupees) for 15 days. Visa applications can be pre-registered online. Read the requirements and have a photo and all requested details available before starting the process. http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa Spare passport size photos and Document copies Better to bring 6-8 recent passport size photos and some copies of your passport for use on the visa application, visa extensions, and Trekking permits.

Is Insurance necessary?

Our guides are trained in first aid, carry a comprehensive medical kit, and can deal with most of the problems encountered on treks. However, in the case of a serious accident outside help needs to be available. That’s why comprehensive insurance is essential. Trekking is not possible without full insurance cover, which you can purchase in your home country. You need to have full, personal, travel insurance that covers personal belongings, trip cancellation plus medical, rescue, and evacuation insurance(for air ambulance and helicopter rescue services). You must carry the company’s insurance policy certificate with you, it must include your name, address, policy number, contact numbers, and procedure for the company’s rescue department.

What types of trekking Documents need to trekking in Nepal?

Trekking entry permits are required to each of Nepal’s National Parks and Conservation Areas. The entry permits cost range from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 3000 per entry and additional permits are required for Restricted Region Treks. We can manage all types of permits. There are five Restricted Regions which are close to the Tibetan border were opened for outside in 1990. The treks only can do with a professional guide and minimum of two trekkers. Your original passport and extra photos are required to make permits for Upper Dolpo, Mustang, Nar-Phu, Tsum Valley, Manaslu, and Kanchenjunga trekking. The fees are according high and range from USD 90.00 - USD 500.00 for a week or 10 days then stiff daily amounts.

Can I used credit cards in trekking?

Credit cards are only accepted in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. You have to make ready Nepalese Rupees to spend during the trek. That’s why you have to take a sufficient amount of Nepali Rupees on your trek. Your personal expenses should be only for hot showers, charging batteries, additional drinks, and snacks, the cost rising with altitude. You can make a ceremony with your trekking team at the end of the trek.

How fit do I need to be to trek in Nepal?

Regular walking or jogging activities for a few months before your trip will ensure high altitude trekking. People who trek so quickly and climb too high in a day may suffer Acute Mountain Sickness( AMS) so we call trekkers slow and steady walking. Stops for rests and do not carry more than 5 kg with you. Pre-fitness and stamina are required for trekking in Nepal. Spend at least two nights in the city before going to the trekking destination which gives time for acclimatization as well as easy to arrange necessary trekking permits.

What is the size of a trekking group ?

We prefer the group size from 1-10 pax but more can be accommodated on request. There must be 2 persons accompanied by a registered guide in the Restrict Regions( Upper Dolpo, Mustang, Nar-Phu, Manaslu, and Kanchenjunga). Anyone who is reasonably fit and can walk for 5-6 hours a day in a hilly country can trek in Nepal. We suggest children up to 15 years stay below 3500m and above 15 years can tackle the higher routes.

Will someone meet me at the airport?

A delegate from Snow Bank Adventure will meet you outside the terminal building and pick you up and take you to your hotel. We use cars or minibusses as the means of transportation in cities. For trekking, we use flights, local buses, minibusses or jeeps depends on the distance, terrain, and size of the group. There is a limitation on luggage up to 15 kg per person on small planes.

Trip

Client Reviews

Piter Dolison

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a ‘must-do’ trek for all trekkers. Walk on Nepal’s oldest trekking trail and arrive at the heart of Annapurna Region. Trek through a typical Nepalese mountain…

Thomas Kevin

Nice Trip Organized By Snow Bank Adventure Pvt Ltd. We had a very great experience of Everest base camp trek. The cost offered by them was also very reasonable than other company…

Mark Newman

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that delivers on every front—stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a profound sense of accomplishment.

Deepak B

I am great thankful to entire team of snow bank adventure and mr sujan for managing our trip. We are enjoying the nature and fully utilise our time.
Again thanks to Mr Sujan and team.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Profile/Q6780PSdeepakb

Tanka G

Snow bank adventure is well trip planner. We collect great experience from this company, they customize our trip and well manage. Langtang valley treks is awesome i will recommend. Thank you Mr Sujan and Snow Bank Adventure

Manoj P

Special thanks to Mr sujan and team for making the enjoyable and memorable trip (kulekhani overnight trip). I strongly recommend to others. We found loyalty, time management of each point of activities. Again thanks to Team Snow bank adventure and team!!

Sujan s

The service and guidelines are very good. Thank you for taking me to so many beautiful places. You made this holiday a lot of fun. I will book again for my next vacation. I hope you will visit more beautiful places. thank you .

Pabitra Karki

Snow Bank Adventure is the best agency for planning the trips.

Mar 2025 • Family

The booking from Snow Bank Adventure was so well managed considering the value of time. Enjoyed the travel with family with loads of fun.

Sabin M

I travelled various places in Nepal via this agency.

Dec 2024 • Family

I appreciate the service provided by this agency!
Highly recommended for travellers from Nepal and beyond. Trip management is excellent and the team also praisworthy.

Binod K

Annapurna Base Camp Treks

Oct 2024 • Friends

This is amaizing treks for us. We choose snow bank adventure for this trip and special thanks to sujan for this management. I will recomend for this company. Thanks alot for this awesome treks.

Gaurab Karki

Trip to ABC and Pokhara.

Sep 2024 • Family

The hospitality of Snow Bank Adventure is awesome. Really enjoyed the trip with family which is so enjoyable & memorable. Planning next trip to Mustang with Snow Bank Adventure.

Ganesh S

A memorable trip

Aug 2024 • Friends

I had an absolutely fantastic time with Snow Bank Adventure! The whole package was top-notch, and the entire crew was so friendly and helpful, going above and beyond what I was expecting. Our guide was amazing – they were so knowledgeable and shared such interesting facts throughout the trip, making the whole experience even more special. I’m completely blown away by Snow Bank Adventure and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an incredible adventure.

Bhairab P

travel in Nepal with family.

Apr 2024 • Family

Nepal really wonderful country in the world where we have visited many national park. And this travel agency’s owner and employ are helpful. thanks all of you kind heart peoples.