Guided half-day sightseeing of UNESCO sites (Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square). Evening 1-hr flight to Nepalgunj in western Terai plains.

Take an early morning mountain flight to Simikot. After lunch and some time to explore Simikot town, begin a short trek down to Kharpunath, a riverside village known for its Hindu temple along the banks of the Karnali River.

Trail Highlights: Descend gradually along Karnali River, cross suspension bridges, terraced farmlands, and traditional Humla villages. Visit Kharpunath temple (important Hindu site).

Follow the Karnali River upstream through traditional Khasa villages and farmlands. The trail passes pine forests and waterfalls before reaching Ripghad campsite.

Trail Highlights: Trek along Karnali River gorge, pass through pine and oak forests, waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs, and small hamlets. Scenic campsite near Ripghad.

The trail turns west, winding through pristine forest and small remote settlements. Leaving the Humla Karnali, you now follow the Kheta Khola valley. Camp is set up near Kheta village along the riverbank.

Trail Highlights: Gradual climb through terraced hillsides, riverside trail along Kholsi Khola, encounter shepherd huts and yak pastures. Views of Saipal range begin to open.

A tough but rewarding day. The trail climbs steeply through pine forests to Dhid Lagna Pass, offering glimpses of distant peaks. A steep descent leads down to Kwadi Khola where you camp for the night.

The route climbs out of the forest into open alpine pastures. As you approach Rani Kharka, stunning views of Mt. Saipal’s massive east face come into sight. Camp in this beautiful meadow.

Trail Highlights: Remote alpine landscapes, yak herders’ summer settlements, wildflowers in spring, views of high ridgelines. Camp at Rani Kharka grazing meadow.

Day 08: Exploration Day – Saipal Base Camp (Approx. 4200m/13,780ft)

Spend the day hiking up towards Saipal Base Camp for closer views of the east face of Mt. Saipal and surrounding glaciers. Enjoy breathtaking scenery with Himalayan flora, juniper, rhododendron, and the chance to spot Himalayan monals, eagles, and vultures. Return to camp at Rani Kharka.

Activity: Day hike to Saipal Base Camp for close-up views of Mt. Saipal (7031m), surrounding glaciers, and hidden valleys. Packed lunch during hike. Return to camp.

The trail passes through grazing meadows and climbs steadily towards Lepcha Kharka, your highest camp. Views of rugged valleys and surrounding peaks dominate the day.

Trail Highlights: Steep climb into rugged terrain, high-altitude meadows, glacial rivers, rare chance of spotting blue sheep and Himalayan birds. Highest camp of trek.

Cross Sakya Lagna Pass, the highest point of the trek, rewarded with incredible panoramas of Mt. Saipal and the Tibetan Plateau. Descend steeply past high pastures and river confluences before reaching the remote settlement of Chala.

Trail Highlights: Trail follows high ridgeline, crossing remote passes, spectacular views of Api–Saipal massif. Arrive at isolated Chala village, rich in Bhotia culture.

A long but fascinating day crossing Syakup Pass before descending into the Puiya Khola valley. The trail leads to Yalbang Gompa, a historic Buddhist monastery and once a stop on the ancient salt trading route to Tibet.

Trail Highlights: Long descent through forested valleys, waterfalls, prayer walls, and monasteries. Visit historic Yalbang Gompa, a spiritual Tibetan Buddhist monastery.

Today, drive along a rough mountain road back to Simikot. The journey passes through remote villages and river valleys, offering a last glimpse of life in far-western Nepal.

Trail Highlights: Bumpy off-road journey along Karnali valley, remote mountain villages, farmland and dramatic river gorges.

Day 13: Flight Simikot → Nepalgunj → Kathmandu (1350m/4429ft)

Take an early morning flight from Simikot via Nepalgunj back to Kathmandu. Free afternoon for rest, shopping, or exploration. Evening farewell dinner hosted by the team.

Activity: Scenic mountain flight back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj. Free afternoon for rest or shopping.

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for onward journey.