The Khaptad National Park Trek is a 7-day journey into the heart of Nepal’s Far Western region, offering a rare off-the-beaten-path adventure in one of the country’s least-visited national parks. Established in 1984, Khaptad National Park spans 225 square kilometers across Doti, Bajhang, Bajura, and Achham districts, at elevations from 1,400m to 3,300m. This trek is perfect for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventurers seeking solitude, with fewer than 500 trekkers annually compared to thousands on popular routes like Everest or Annapurna.
The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting 567 plant species, including rhododendrons, oaks, and medicinal herbs, and 287 bird species, such as the Himalayan Monal (Nepal’s national bird). Wildlife includes Himalayan black bears, musk deer, leopards, and wild boars. The landscape features rolling meadows, subalpine forests, and streams, with stunning views of the Api (7,132m) and Saipal (7,031m) Himalayan ranges. The sacred Khaptad Baba Ashram, where the revered Khaptad Baba meditated for 50 years, adds spiritual significance, drawing Hindu pilgrims, especially during the Ganga Dashahara Carnival in late May.
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, followed by a drive to Silgadhi, the starting point. The route passes through lush forests, traditional villages, and the serene Khaptad Daha Lake, offering opportunities for birdwatching, meditation, and cultural immersion with Tharu and Baitadi communities. The itinerary is moderately challenging, with 5-7 hours of daily hiking on steep, uneven trails, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal, with blooming rhododendrons and clear mountain views.
Hairy Yak Adventures provides experienced, government-licensed guides, all necessary permits (Khaptad National Park permit: NPR 3,000/$25 for foreigners, NPR 500 for SAARC nationals; TIMS card: $10–$20), and equipment like sleeping bags and trekking poles. Accommodation includes tea houses in Silgadhi and Jhigrana, with camping for two nights in the park due to limited facilities. We recommend arriving in Kathmandu one day before for a briefing and to explore UNESCO sites like Boudhanath Stupa. This trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual tranquility, and cultural richness in Nepal’s hidden Far West.
Explore the pristine Khaptad National Park, a remote gem in Nepal’s far-western region, spanning Bajhang, Bajura, Doti, and Achham districts.
Visit sacred sites like Khaptad Baba Ashram, where the revered hermit Khaptad Baba meditated for 50 years, and religious spots like Tribeni, Sahasra Linga (3,200m), and Khaptad Daha (Lake).
Encounter diverse flora (567 species, including 224 medicinal herbs and rhododendrons) and fauna (287 bird species, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, leopards).
Experience the Ganga Dashahara Carnival (late May/early June, 14 Jestha), a vibrant festival showcasing far-western culture, with bans on alcohol, tobacco, and butchering.
Trek through rolling meadows, oak and pine forests, and high-altitude grasslands, offering solitude and untouched wilderness
All land transport and flight tickets (Kathmandu to Dhangadhi and return).
Khaptad National Park permit and TIMS card fees.
Tea house accommodation in Silgadhi and Jhigrana, camping for two nights in the park, with three meals daily (Nepali meals like dal bhat, vegetables, dhido; tea/coffee included).
Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide.
One porter for every two to three participants (max 15kg per person; additional cost for solo trekkers).
Guide and porter wages, equipment, insurance, and other staff facilities.
Complimentary sleeping bag, trekking poles, and duffel bag (returnable).
Comprehensive first aid kit and emergency arrangements.
All program activities as per the itinerary on a full-board basis.
Hotel accommodation, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu and Dhangadhi.
Travel insurance (must cover helicopter rescue evacuation in emergencies).
Personal expenses (e.g., soft/hard drinks, tips, souvenirs).
All bar bills.
Items of a personal nature (e.g., personal trekking gear beyond provided items).
Costs or delays due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., landslides, weather, illness, flight cancellations).
Panoramic vistas of Api Himal (7,132m), Saipal Himal (7,031m), and Nalakankar Himal from Khaptad Danda and other viewpoints.
Scenic meadows (22 Patans) covered in wildflowers during spring, lush forests, and serene streams.
Stunning views of Khaptad Daha, a tranquil lake at 3,000m, surrounded by meadows and spiritual significance.
Picturesque villages like Silgadhi and Jhigrana, with terraced farmlands and far-western cultural charm.
Suitable for moderately experienced trekkers with basic fitness, seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure with spiritual and natural appeal.
Moderate difficulty, with daily treks of 5–9 hours and altitudes from 1,400m to 3,300m; no technical climbing required but involves steep slopes and rocky trails.
Not ideal for complete beginners due to remote terrain and limited facilities; best for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those seeking cultural/spiritual experiences.
Perfect for those wanting solitude, as the park sees few tourists compared to popular routes like Everest or Annapurna.
Physical Preparation:
Train 2–3 months with cardio (running, cycling), strength exercises (squats, lunges), and hikes with a 10–12 kg backpack.
Practice walking on uneven terrain to handle rocky paths and moderate ascents.
Proper Gear:
Pack sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing (moisture-wicking base, fleece, waterproof jacket), and a sleeping bag rated for -10°C for cold nights.
Include trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water filter/purification tablets.
Pack Light:
Keep your 50–60L backpack to 10–12 kg; porters (cost ~USD 20/day, one per two trekkers) can carry up to 25 kg.
Pack compact clothing and toiletries for 7–11 days; camping gear (tents, mats) is essential as lodges are scarce.
Hydration and Altitude:
Drink 3–4 liters of water daily; use purification tablets or a filter for stream water, as bottled water is not recommended.
Monitor for AMS symptoms (headache, nausea); altitudes reach 3,300m, so carry Diamox and inform your guide if symptoms appear.
Acclimatization:
Rest at 2,000–2,500m (e.g., Jhigrana or Bichpani) to adjust to altitudes up to 3,300m.
Ascend gradually to minimize AMS risk; follow itinerary pacing.
Carry ample Nepali Rupees (NPR) from Kathmandu or Dhangadhi; no ATMs beyond Dhangadhi or Silgadhi.
Expect minimal mobile coverage; teahouses may offer limited Wi-Fi or phone services for a fee; a satellite phone is advised for emergencies.
Power Solutions:
Bring a solar charger or power bank; teahouse charging costs NPR 200–500 per device and is limited in remote areas.
Carry spare batteries for headlamps; conserve power in cold conditions.
Toiletries:
Pack biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
Use a compact toiletry bag for basic facilities in tented camps or rare teahouses.
Respect Local Culture:
Greet locals with “Namaste” and dress modestly in Tharu, Baitadi, and other far-western villages.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites like Khaptad Baba Ashram or Tribeni Temple.
Permits:
Khaptad National Park Entry Permit: NPR 1,500 (foreigners), NPR 500 (SAARC nationals), NPR 100 (Nepali nationals).
TIMS Card: NPR 1,000 (group trekkers), NPR 2,000 (solo trekkers); NPR 600 for SAARC nationals.
Permits can be arranged in Kathmandu or Dhangadhi via agencies like Hairy Yak Adventures.
Duration: 7–11 days, including flights (Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, ~1 hr 15 min) and drives (Dhangadhi to Silgadhi, ~6–8 hrs).
Route: Starts in Silgadhi, treks through Jhigrana, Bichpani, and Buki Dahi to Khaptad National Park, exploring Khaptad Daha, Baba Ashram, and Sahasra Linga, then returns via similar routes or to Chainpur.
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) for wildflowers and Autumn (October–November) for clear skies; avoid June–September (rainy) and December–February (snowy).
Difficulty: Moderate; involves 5–9 hours of daily trekking, altitudes up to 3,300m, and rugged trails, but no technical skills needed.
Accommodation: Primarily tented camps; limited basic teahouses or homestays in Jhigrana, Silgadhi, or Dipayal; bring camping gear for self-sufficiency.
Insurance: Mandatory, covering medical evacuation up to 4,000m; verify altitude coverage with your insurer.
Guide: Not mandatory but highly recommended for navigation, cultural insights, and safety in this remote region; group trekking is common.
Logistics: Flights to Dhangadhi or Nepalgunj and drives to Silgadhi are weather-dependent; plan buffer days for delays.
Cost: Guided packages range from USD 1,300–1,600, including flights, guides, porters, meals, and permits; independent trekking is cheaper but requires self-arranged logistics.
Contact: Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
The trek is moderately challenging, with 5-9 hours of daily hiking on steep, uneven trails up to 3,010m. Basic fitness and some hiking experience are recommended.
Accommodation includes tea houses in Silgadhi and Jhigrana, and camping for two nights in Khaptad National Park, with basic Nepali meals provided.
Limited tea houses in Khaptad National Park necessitate camping at the park’s campsite, with tents, meals, and tea/coffee provided for comfort.
You need a Khaptad National Park permit (NPR 3,000/$25 for foreigners, NPR 500 for SAARC) and a TIMS card ($10–$20), arranged by Hairy Yak Adventures.
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal, offering clear Himalayan views, blooming rhododendrons, and mild weather.