Saipal East Base Camp Trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. A city of vibrant tourist hub filled with shops, cafés, and trekking essentials. Join a guided tour of Kathmandu’s famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the majestic Boudhanath Stupa and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, two of the most revered spiritual landmarks in Nepal.

Explore the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square and the vibrant Asan Tole market for a glimpse into the city’s cultural core. In the evening, we’ll hold a pre trek briefing, review your gear, and answer any final questions to prepare you for the Saipal East Base Camp adventure.

Begin your journey with a scenic morning flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi. Enjoy sweeping views of the Himalayas and the southern plains of Nepal along the way. Upon arrival in Dhangadhi, you’ll embark on an adventurous jeep drive to Martadi, the administrative center of Bajura District. Dhangadhi Airport to Martadi Bazaar driving by private jeep covers approximately 340 km (211.27 miles) and takes around 12 to 14 hours.

However, this jeep drive takes you through the diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to rugged hills. Providing a first glimpse into the remote far western terrain and a rewarding travel day sets the stage for your trek to the Saipal East Base Camp.

Alternatively, for a more comfortable journey, you can take a scenic flight to Kolti Airport located in the remote hills of Bajura District. Sita Air, Tara Air, Nepal Airlines, and Summit Air are operating two flights daily. Upon arrival, our local team will receive you and escort you to your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the next stage of your adventure. Meet your entire crew and prepare the necessary food supplies toward the majestic Saipal East Base Camp trekking.

Depending on your arrival time at Kolti Airport, you’ll either embark on a scenic jeep ride via Martadi or begin a short introductory trek to reach Dhaulachaur. Winding through terraced hillsides, remote hamlets, and striking mountain terrain, this overland journey offers a truly immersive introduction to the untamed charm of western Nepal.

As you ascend deeper into the hills, the changing landscape reveals a blend of cultural richness and raw Himalayan wilderness, setting the perfect tone for the adventure ahead. Notably, you’ll have your first authentic glimpse into the untouched Himalayan wilderness of the far-western region of Nepal.

From Kolti or Martadi, the drive to Dhaulachaur by private jeep spans approximately 65 to 70 kilometers (40 to 44 miles) and takes around 6 hours, depends on road and weather conditions. En route, you’ll tackle a thrilling off-road trail that winds through steep hills and river crossings. Moreover, passing through traditional settlements sets an exciting tone for the journey ahead.

Begins from Dhaulachaur, taking you through peaceful trails that wind past isolated hamlets and pristine valleys. Cross through Borta and reach Rugine, the natural scenery unfolds with dramatic ridgelines and cultural charm. Covering about 12 km (7.5 miles), this section takes roughly 6 hours on foot. Interestingly, visitors will have a rich mix of authentic village life and untouched Himalayan landscapes.

Leaving Rugine behind, the trail meanders through dense forests, alpine pastures, and timeless settlements en route to Bichhaya. Along the way, you’ll witness traditional lifestyles and a growing sense of wilderness as the terrain becomes more remote. Ramblers will have a deeper connection to the cultural and ecological diversity of the Saipal region. Trek from Rugine to Bichhaya is 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) and can complete in six hours. Leading you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and scattered highland settlements, gradually gaining elevation.

Tramp to Phulai today brings an increase in altitude and panoramic views of unspoiled Himalayan ridges and deep river valleys. Winds through the scenic hilltops and tranquil meadows, that has plenty of photo opportunities. Reach Phulai, you’ll begin to sense the alpine shift in vegetation and air—marking the approach to the Saipal highlands. Starting your footsteps from Bichhaya to Phulai is 9 to 10 kilometers (5.6 to 6.2 miles) and takes around five hours to complete.

Continuing onward from Phulai, climbs steadily toward Chyachour, revealing a stark contrast between lush lowlands and rocky, high mountains terrain. Transition from mid hills to alpine zones, with increasingly dramatic vistas are a highlights of this day walk. Upon reaching Chyachour, you’ll be well acclimatized and immersed in the heart of far western trekking frontier.

From Phulai to Chyachour covers approximately 8 to 9 kilometers (5 to 5.6 miles) and takes around 5 to 6 hours of steady walking. Chyachour sits at an altitude of about 3,900m, gradually climbs through an alpine terrain with expanding views of the Saipal Himalayan range.

Leaving Chyachour behind, leads your path to Dhaulakharka, a scenic highland pasture located in the stunning Ranisen area. Traveler’s will achieve an astonishing views of the Saipal Himalayan range, with dramatic landscapes of alpine ridges and deep valleys unfolding at every turn.

Likewise, trekking to Dhaulakharka is a serene location that has a perfect for both rest and high altitude acclimatization. Covering about 8 kilometers (5 miles) and takes around 5 hours. Dhaulakharka provides an wide views of the Saipal Himalayas and a peaceful alpine setting perfect for acclimatization.

Later breakfast, go with your guide for a hike to Saipal East Base Camp that makes a highlight of your entire journey. Base camp has a tiny lake that surrounded by wilderness ridges with towering snowy summits.

Reserved day for acclimatization and exploration, ensuring your safety and enjoyment at high altitude. You may choose to relax at the campsite or venture out to nearby ridgelines for additional scenic views and photography. Have a peaceful ambiance of Ranisen’s alpine terrain that has the perfect backdrop for rest and reflection.

A challenging yet rewarding day begins with a steep ascent to Sankha Lagna Pass. Experience an excellent views of western isolated peaks and glacial valleys. After this high pass, you’ll descend through rocky trails to reach the remote village of Chala, nestled amidst the highlands.

Adventurers will experience a true sense of remoteness and Himalayan grandeur. Sankha Lagna Pass at 4,710m to Chala village spans about 13 kilometers (8 miles) and takes around 7 hours. Featuring a demanding ascent to the high mountain pass, followed by a scenic descent through rugged alpine terrain to the isolated village of Chala.

Starting a trek to Muchu village winds through scenic highland plateaus and traditional settlements, showcasing the ethnic culture. Muchu is a tiny village with its ancient monasteries and Tibetan influenced architecture. Landscapes changes gradually, and has a more temperate and friendly environment.

Walking to Muchu at 2,920 meters is approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) which will take around 7 hours. Descends steadily through remote highland terrain, traditional villages, and river valleys where you will obtain a blend of cultural encounters and scenic beauty.

You’ll embark on a scenic jeep ride from Muchu to Simikot, the administrative hub of Humla District. Journey by road winds through majestic valleys, high ridges, and culturally vibrant villages. Eventually, you’ll arrive in Simikot, located at 2,910 meters, after a 45 kilometer (28 miles) drive from Muchu that takes roughly 4 hours. Once there, settle in and prepare for your return journey. Simikot is a popular as the gateway to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, and it serves as a vital cultural and trade hub in remote Humla region.

Keep at least one buffer day for weather delays or to further explore the Himalayan lifestyle of Simikot. Walk to explore the local markets, interact with friendly locals, or simply rest after your adventurous trekking.

You will take a scenic domestic flight from Simikot Airport to Nepalgunj Airport aboard a STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) aircraft, typically operated by Tara Air or Summit Air. About 45 minutes scenic flight, you will achieve an aerial views of the rugged Karnali landscape and connects the remote highlands of Humla to the lowland gateway of western Nepal.

Upon landing at Nepalgunj Airport, we will arrange your connecting return flight to Kathmandu. Typically operated by comfortable and reliable ATR 42 or ATR 72 aircraft. Once you land in Kathmandu, Your guide will manage a transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a your private time for last-minute shopping and join us for a memorable farewell dinner. Spend the night in Kathmandu, and we’ll wish you a safe and pleasant journey home the following morning.