the Saipal Base Camp Trekking, a renowned journey named after the majestic Mt. Saipal Himal (7031m) in the western region of Nepal. As the second highest peak in the western part of the country, Saipal Himal offers a captivating backdrop for this remote and rewarding off-the-beaten-track trek.
Saipal Himal Trek presents a less crowded and untouched route, promising an immersive experience amidst pristine wilderness. Beginning from Simikot and winding towards the Karnali river bank through Thakuri and Bhotia settlements, this trek showcases the best of Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
The trail to Saipal Base Camp is adorned with breathtaking mountain landscapes, rapid rivers, and verdant forests, creating a picturesque backdrop for your journey. Explore traditional village settings, traverse indigenous crop fields, and discover age-old monasteries along the way, each offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.
Immerse yourself in the panoramic vistas of the Himalayas, with highlights including the towering Saipal Himal (7031m), Thado Dhunga Tuppa (5368m), Api Himal, Rajamba (6537m), Kapchuli, and even the distant peaks of Mt. Nandadevi (7817m) in Uttar Pradesh, India. The trail is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, adding to the allure of the mountainous landscape.
Embark on the Saipal Base Camp Trekking and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime, where every step brings you closer to the awe-inspiring beauty of Nepal’s western region.
Highlights
Breathtaking close-up views of Saipal Himal (7,031 m)
Exploration of remote western Nepal and its untouched landscapes
Visits to traditional villages and interaction with local ethnic groups
Scenic flights from Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Simikot
Trekking through diverse flora, fauna, and forest trails
Cultural immersion in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries
Peaceful trails far from commercial trekking routes
Itinerary (22D, 21N)
Nepal Intrepid Treks will be your dedicated travel companion until you return to your home country. Once you arrive at Kathmandu airport, we will be there to pick you up and take you to your hotel. Accommodation for our valued customers includes room and breakfast in a three star hotel in Kathmandu. Take in the impressions of Nepal as we drive you from the airport to your hotel. We will assist you with the check-in and provide you with further information regarding your Everest Base Camp Trek. You may then have a rest or stroll through the bustling, colorful streets and alleys of Kathmandu.
Before starting your trekking journey, we have set aside a day in Kathmandu to help you learn about the unique art, culture, and architecture of Nepal. You will be guided to the UNESCO-listed heritage sites in Kathmandu. First, you will be escorted to Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you can visit the museum, palace, its premises, and the temples built around it. Next, you will be escorted to the monkey temple – Swayambhunath. We walk up the stairs to the stupa. From the height, we can get an excellent view of Kathmandu city. Then, we visit a popular Hindu temple – Pashupatinath temple and head towards the largest stupa in the world – Boudhanath stupa. In the evening, we return to our hotel for an overnight stay
Today, there is a flight scheduled from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, with an estimated flight time of around 55 minutes. Upon arriving at Nepalgunj, a rest day is planned to relax and acclimate to the new surroundings.
Today, an early morning flight is scheduled from Nepalgunj to Simikot, which serves as the headquarters of the Humla district. The flight is expected to take approximately 45 minutes and will involve reaching an altitude of 2910 meters above sea level.
Upon arriving at Simikot, after lunch explore the local area and take in the sights and sounds of this picturesque location. Additionally, take the opportunity to prepare for tomorrow’s trek, ensuring that all necessary supplies and equipment are in order.
Today, our trekking adventure takes us to Dharapori, where we will be setting up camp for the night. The trek is expected to take between 5-6 hours on foot, and we will be traversing through some of the most breathtaking landscapes imaginable.
Our camping spot is situated at the start of the Namkha rural municipality area, marking the point at which we leave Simikot behind us. This promises to be a memorable and exhilarating experience, as we immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding environment and forge unforgettable memories along the way.
Following an early breakfast, we will begin our journey towards our next campsite, Choila. Our trail will take us through a Buddhist village, where we will have the opportunity to learn about and immerse ourselves in the rich and vibrant local culture and traditions.
Today’s trek will be an upward climb and can take up to 6 hours of walking. Along the way, we will be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and will have ample opportunities to explore and appreciate the unique natural beauty of the region.
Our campsite at Choila is situated at an altitude of around 3200 meters above sea level and boasts a breathtaking love-shaped lake and awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains. This promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with adventure, discovery, and natural beauty at every turn.
Today, we will continue our trekking journey towards our next campsite, which promises to be an exciting and memorable experience. The trail that we will be traversing is simply wonderful, featuring stunningly beautiful rhododendron and birch forests that are sure to take our breath away.
As we make our way towards our destination, we will also have the opportunity to behold the serene and tranquil beauty of the Chuipunga lake, whose pristine waters and tranquil surroundings will provide a welcome respite from the rigors of our trek. After approximately 3-4 hours of walking, we will arrive at our next campsite, Chuipunga, where we can rest, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of our surroundings. This promises to be an incredible experience, filled with adventure, wonder, and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
After we finished our early breakfast, we gathered our belongings and embarked on our journey towards the next destination on our itinerary. The trail we took led us across the serene and picturesque chote lake, which was a small yet charming body of water nestled amidst the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape. The trail itself was relatively easy, with gently rolling terrain that didn’t pose too much of a challenge to our group of experienced hikers. As we made our way along the trail, we were treated to breathtaking views of the stunning natural scenery that surrounded us, including towering mountains, verdant forests, and crystal-clear streams. Towards the end of our hike, we encountered a small downhill section that required a bit more caution and attention on our part, but which ultimately proved to be a thrilling and enjoyable part of our adventure. Finally, after roughly four to five hours of walking, we arrived at our destination for the day – a peaceful and idyllic camping spot in the beautiful wilderness known as drosa, where we would spend the night and recharge our batteries for the next leg of our journey.
We will need to cross the sinlinge pass, which is approximately 5000 meters above sea level, after breakfast. The ascent to the pass will be challenging, but after that, the trail will be easy with stunning views of the lake and surroundings. We will then continue towards our next camp at lepche, which is the final campsite before reaching rani kharka. The trek to lepche will take us about 3 hours.
Following breakfast, we will make our way towards rani kharka(saina) on a picturesque trail with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is straight and easy, offering us an opportunity to take in the beauty of our surroundings. The trek to rani kharka(saina) will take us approximately 1-2 hours.
Our trek today will take us to the breathtaking tsonangmo lake, which is located above ranikharka. We will spend the night camping near the large and majestic tsonangmo lake, which is considered to be a sacred body of water. According to local beliefs, any impurities in the lake will cause rain to fall immediately. The trek to tsonangmo lake is approximately 2 hours long and offers us an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the Himalayan wilderness.
After breakfast, we will continue our journey towards our next camp at Kaerang, trekking alongside the beautiful Saipal Range. The trail is untouched by foreign visitors and offers us stunning views of the majestic Saipal Range, as well as the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including blue sheep and snow leopards. These remote areas are also abundant in medicinal herbs, including the highly coveted codyceps sinensis (yarsha gumba), known for its valuable medicinal properties. The trek to Kaerang promises to be a truly unforgettable experience, as we immerse ourselves in the natural beauty and unique cultural heritage of this remote and rugged region.
Today, we will depart from our camp at Kaerang and continue our trek towards Saipal Base Camp. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region, including serene lakes and the majestic Saipal Range. The trek promises to be a memorable and awe-inspiring experience as we immerse ourselves in the rugged wilderness of this remote region.
Today, we will take a much-needed break and spend the entire day resting at Saipal Base Camp. We will have the opportunity to explore the immediate surroundings and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It will be a day of relaxation and rejuvenation as we prepare ourselves for the challenges that lie ahead on our trek.
: Following breakfast, we will continue our trek towards our next camp at Labuk Depsa, following a trail that has been used for centuries by the Chala villagers and local herb collectors. This ancient trail promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience as we immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region and traverse through rugged and untouched terrain.
Our next destination is the remote and sloping Chala village, located in the heart of Namkha Rural Municipality. This village is renowned for its delicious locally-grown potatoes, considered to be the tastiest in all of Humla, and grown using only organic methods. Our trek to Chala village promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience as we journey through rugged terrain and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of this remote and isolated community.
The journey ahead from Chala is a long and challenging one, as we make our way towards Yalbang via the Syakup Pass (4214m). This pass presents a major obstacle on our route and requires a strenuous climb to cross. After conquering the pass, we will descend steeply into the Puiya Khola side valley, where we will traverse through lush forests before eventually arriving at the Humla Karnali Bridge near Muchu. From there, we will embark on a steady climb towards Yalbang, where we will have the opportunity to visit the Namkha Khyung Dzong Monastery. This ancient monastery provides a formal education in Buddhism, including mathematics and English language courses, for young monks. Along the way, we will be following the ancient sheep and goat caravan salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet, which is teeming with a vast variety of Himalayan flora and fauna.
As we leave Yalbang, the trail descends towards Yalbang Chaur before beginning a steep ascent, snaking its way around the cliffs that tower above the narrow Karnali Canyon. We’ll continue along the path as it dips into the Salli Khola Valley, where we’ll make a short climb up to Salli Lagna. From there, we’ll follow a trail that contours gently downwards and around towards Kermi. If we have enough time, we may have the opportunity to take a dip in the invigorating hot springs. Throughout this section of the trail, we’ll be surrounded by a variety of Himalayan flora and fauna, including blue pine, alnus, willow trees, and many other species. One easily spotted bird species in the area is the colorful Himalayan Monal, also known as the Chukar.
Today’s trek will take us from Kermi to Dharapori, where we will encounter the beginning of the Thakuri Hindu village. The trek is relatively easy and offers a chance to admire the beautiful Chachara waterfall along the trail.
The trek through Majgaun, a small village primarily inhabited by the Thakuri community who speak Nepali and practice Hinduism, offers a unique cultural experience. The final ascent towards Simikor Lagna may prove to be a bit frustrating, but it is a fitting end to an enjoyable journey. The descent on the stony path is short and brings you back to the luxuries of Simikot. Along the way, one can admire the mostly blue pine forest and the conserved community forest featuring juniper and pipal trees. The trek is accompanied by the pleasant aroma of pine. Once you conquer the Simikot Lagna, you’ll be rewarded with a great view of the Simikot plateau and Humla settlement.
As the headquarters of the district, Simikot attracts a diverse range of people from the Humla region as well as other parts of Nepal. This creates a unique blend of cultures, traditions, religions, and customs that can be observed in the town. If the weather is favorable, we will take the first flight to Nepalgunj and connect to Kathmandu on the same day. By afternoon, we will arrive in Kathmandu
We will thank you with a token of love from the departure section of Tribhuwan International Airport. Before your departure, as per your choice, we can have a group farewell dinner where you can taste Newari food items. At last, we will wish best of luck for your wonderful journey to the new chapter of your life
Trekking Map
Altitude Profile
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
Airports pick up and drop by private vehicle
Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 Nights twin sharing with breakfast
Full day guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
Domestic flights KTM- Nepalgunj – Simikot- KTM and airport taxes
All meals and accommodation during Saipal himal trekking period
An experienced English speaking guide trained by Gov. of Nepal
Highly experienced Saipal himal trekking staffs
All governmental procedure permits fees and local taxes
Tents, mattress duffel bag, medical kit etc.
Travel and rescue arrangements
Farewell dinner at typical Nepalese restaurant
What's Excluded
Visa fees/ international airfare to and from Kathmandu
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Hot shower, battery recharge during Saipal himal trek
Personal expenses phone calls, bar bills, extra porters etc
Personal Saipal himal trekking equipment / gears
Tips for guides, Kitchen staffs, porters and driver (suggested to tip them 5-10 USD/day in total.
All others expenses not mentioned on price include section
Equipment List
Clothing
Footwear & Sleeping Gear
Trekking Gear
Personal Essentials
Electronics & Food
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s a moderate trek suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness. No technical climbing skills are needed.
The highest point is around 4,700 m near Sakya Lagna and Saipal Base Camp.
Yes. Trekking permits and local area permits are included in the package.
Hotels in cities and tented camps during trekking.
Limited power sources and mobile signal; best to bring extra batteries and a power bank.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) for stable weather and clear mountain views.
Yes, private groups can request flexible dates and personalized itineraries.
