The Saipal Himal Trek is a 21-day adventure into the pristine and remote Far Western region of Nepal, specifically in the Humla and Bajhang districts, where the majestic Saipal Himal (7,031m) stands as the second-highest peak in the region. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers a rare opportunity to experience untouched Himalayan landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the rich cultural tapestry of Thakuri, Bhotia, and Tibetan communities. Unlike the crowded trails of Everest or Annapurna, Saipal Himal sees fewer than 500 trekkers annually, providing solitude and an authentic wilderness experience.
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a scenic 55-minute flight to Simikot, the gateway to Humla. From Simikot, the trail follows the Karnali River, passing through traditional villages like Kermi, Yalbang, and Chala, where you’ll encounter ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries (e.g., Namkha Khyung Dzong) and observe local farming practices. The route crosses high passes like Syakup La (4,214m) and Sakya La (4,709m), offering panoramic views of Saipal Himal, Api (7,132m), Nampa (6,757m), Rajamba (6,537m), and even Mt. Nandadevi (7,817m) in India. The trek culminates at Saipal East and West Base Camps (approximately 4,500m), where the Nunekhara Glacier and snow-capped peaks create a breathtaking backdrop.
This trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical fitness due to steep ascents, rocky terrain, and altitudes up to 4,709m. The itinerary includes 15 nights of camping due to limited tea houses in remote areas, with basic Nepali meals (dal bhat, dhido, vegetables) provided by our expert trekking cook. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal, offering clear skies, vibrant rhododendrons in spring, and crisp Himalayan views in autumn. Winter treks are not recommended due to heavy snowfall, and monsoon season (June-August) may obscure views.
Hairy Yak Adventures ensures a seamless experience with government-licensed guides and porters familiar with Humla’s terrain and culture. All permits, including the Humla Restricted Area Permit ($50 for 7 days, $15 per additional day) and TIMS card ($10–$20), are arranged by our team. We provide essential gear like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles (returnable). Arrive in Kathmandu two days before the trek for a briefing and to explore UNESCO sites like Pashupatinath Temple. This trek is a journey into Nepal’s untouched wilderness, blending adventure, cultural immersion, and Himalayan splendor.
Trek to the base of Saipal Himal (7,031m), the second-highest peak in western Nepal, resembling a “sleeping golden ox,” offering a remote, off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Humla and Bajhang districts.
Explore pristine landscapes, including subtropical forests, alpine meadows, steep gorges, lakes, waterfalls, and streams, with minimal tourist presence for a serene experience.
Immerse in the cultural diversity of Thakuri, Bhotia, Brahmin, and Chhetri communities, with visits to ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries like Namkha Khyung Dzong in Yalbang and Lakiyo Gompa.
Encounter rich biodiversity, including Himalayan flora (rhododendrons, pines, junipers) and fauna (Himalayan black bear, musk deer, diverse bird species).
Pass through traditional villages, indigenous crop fields, and spiritual sites, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle largely untouched by modernity.
$3500 per person (based on 3-4 pax group size)
All land transport and flight tickets (Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, Nepalgunj to Simikot, and return).
Humla Restricted Area Permit, TIMS card, and other necessary permits.
Tea house accommodation in Simikot, Kermi, and Yalbang; camping for 15 nights with three meals daily (Nepali meals like dal bhat, vegetables, dhido; tea/coffee included).
Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide and expert trekking cook.
One porter for every two to three participants (max 15kg per person; additional cost for solo trekkers).
Guide, cook, and porter wages, equipment, insurance, and other staff facilities.
Complimentary sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, and duffel bag (returnable).
Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter and emergency arrangements.
All program activities as per the itinerary on a full-board basis.
Hotel accommodation, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj.
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 Saipal Himal (7,031m), Api Himal (7,132m), Thado Dhunga Tuppa (5,368m), Rajamba (6,537m), Kapchuli (6,850m), and Mt. Nandadevi (7,817m) in India.
Stunning views of the Saipal Glacier, Nunekhara Glacier, and Kali Dhunga Lake (4,100m), a sacred glacier lake near Api Himal Base Camp.
Scenic trails along the Karnali River, with waterfalls, steep cliffs, and lush forests, culminating in high-altitude meadows and rugged Himalayan landscapes.
Breathtaking vistas from high passes like Sakya Lagna (4,710m) and Shankha La Pass (4,800m), with clear views of Mount Kailash on good weather days.
Ideal for moderately experienced trekkers with good health and fitness, seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure in a remote, less-touristed region.
Moderate to strenuous difficulty, with daily treks of 5–8 hours, altitudes up to 4,800m (base camp or passes), and rugged terrain; no high-altitude trekking experience required, but endurance is key.
Not suitable for beginners without trekking experience or those with health issues due to remote locations, basic facilities, and potential altitude challenges.
Perfect for adventurers craving solitude, cultural immersion, and pristine Himalayan wilderness, away from crowded trails 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 to build stamina.
Practice walking on uneven terrain to handle rocky paths, steep ascents, and descents.
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 at higher altitudes.
Include trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and water purification tablets or a filter.
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, but minimal gear enhances comfort.
Pack compact clothing and toiletries for 17–22 days; camping gear (tents, mats) is essential due to limited teahouses.
Hydration and Altitude:
Drink 3–4 liters of water daily; use purification tablets or a filter for stream/river water, as bottled water is unavailable.
Monitor for AMS symptoms (headache, nausea); carry Diamox and inform your guide if symptoms worsen, as altitudes reach 4,800m.
Acclimatization:
Rest at 2,500–3,000m (e.g., Simikot, Kermi, or Yalbang) to adjust to higher altitudes.
Ascend gradually to minimize AMS risk; follow guide recommendations for pacing.
Cash and Connectivity:
Carry ample Nepali Rupees (NPR) from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj; no ATMs beyond Nepalgunj or Simikot.
Expect minimal mobile coverage; teahouses may offer limited Wi-Fi/phone services for a fee; a satellite phone is advised for emergencies.
Power Solutions:
Bring a solar charger or power bank; charging in teahouses or camps 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 occasional teahouses.
Respect Local Culture:
Greet locals with “Namaste” and dress modestly in Thakuri, Bhotia, and other villages, especially near monasteries or sacred sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, monks, or religious sites like gompas or stupas.
Permits:
Humla Restricted Area Permit: USD 50 for 7 days, USD 10/day extra (September–November); USD 35 for 7 days, USD 7/day extra (other months).
TIMS Card: NPR 1,000 (group trekkers), NPR 2,000 (solo trekkers); NPR 600 for SAARC nationals.
Permits require a minimum of two trekkers and a licensed guide; arrange through agencies like Himalayan Magic Treks or Nepal Hiking Himalaya in Kathmandu.
Duration: 17–22 days, including flights (Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, ~1 hr; Nepalgunj to Simikot, ~45 min) and trekking from Simikot.
Route: Starts in Simikot, follows the Karnali River through villages like Dharapori, Kermi, Yalbang, and Chala, crosses passes like Sakya Lagna (4,710m) or Shankha La (4,800m), and reaches Saipal Base Camp (East or North, ~4,500m).
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) for blooming rhododendrons and mild weather; Autumn (September–November) for clear skies and stable conditions; avoid monsoon (June–August) due to rain and winter (December–February) due to snow.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous; involves 5–8 hours of daily trekking, altitudes up to 4,800m, and rugged trails, but no technical climbing required.
Accommodation: Primarily tented camps; limited teahouses or guesthouses in Simikot, Kermi, or Yalbang; bring camping gear for self-sufficiency.
Insurance: Mandatory, covering medical evacuation up to 5,000m; verify altitude coverage with your insurer.
Guide: Mandatory for restricted areas; highly recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural insights. Porters enhance comfort.
Logistics: Flights to Nepalgunj/Simikot are weather-dependent; plan buffer days for delays. Costs range from USD 3,500–5,325 per person (group size of 1–4), including permits, flights, guides, and camping.
Food: Camping treks include meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee) prepared by cooks; teahouses offer Nepali (dal bhat), continental, or Indian dishes (pasta, momo, soup).
Contact: Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
This trek is a rare off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal’s Far West, offering solitude, untouched landscapes, and cultural immersion with Thakuri and Bhotia communities, unlike busier trails.
Remote areas beyond Yalbang lack tea houses, necessitating camping with tents, meals, and tea/coffee provided for comfort in isolated valleys and base camps.
You’ll visit ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries like Namkha Khyung Dzong in Yalbang and interact with Thakuri and Bhotia communities, observing their traditional lifestyles.
Basic fitness, hydration (4-5 liters daily), and following our acclimatization itinerary help manage the moderate challenge of high passes and prevent altitude sickness.
Khaptad National Park and surrounding areas host Himalayan black bears, musk deer, leopards, and birds like the Himalayan Monal, enriching the trek’s biodiversity.