Saipal Base Camp Trek

Overview

Mount Saipal being the 2nd highest peak in far west Nepal lies at the height of  7031m and is situated in Humla district in Nepal. This trio of Api, Nampa and  Saipal they form a small range of sharp, icy peaks, rising from a long, steep, snowy  crest. Saipal base camp itself lies at elevation of 4700m. Mount Saipal was first  climbed in 1960. It is said that this place was closed in early 2000s due to long  lasting conflict between Maoist and Nepal government until they came to an  agreement achieving peace and a chance to visit this place again in 2006. This  region is highly populated by Chetri, Brahmins and some Thakurs and Bhotias.  Saipal base camp is kind of off-the-beaten track and very remote part of Nepal yet  very beautiful and fascinating. Trail to Saipal base camp is really untouched and  very less crowded area. On the way to Saipal base camp you can definitely get a  view of beautiful landscape, cultural diversity, and rapid rivers along with pristine  forest. It also offers you the panoramic view of Mount Saipal, Thado Dhunga  Tuppa, Kapchuli, Mount Nandadevi, etc., which are situated in Uttar Pradesh of  India. Trek to Saipal base camp definitely requires you to step out of your comfort  zone and explore the remote, cultural beauty of Nepal.  

Beast season to visit 

Like many parts of Nepal the best season for trekking to Saipal base camp is  certainly March to May in spring and October to December in autumn.  

Food and accommodations 

Since Humla district is remote part of our country you cannot expect some  expensive lodges with best facilities. There are some of the hotels in Simikot but  when you start reaching high altitudes you have to prepare yourself for camping  or small home stays. The teahouses usually cost you 4-6$ per night. They are very  simple and basic. You will have a shared room with shared washrooms. 

Foods– If you are doing a camping trek you need to bring all the stuff you need for  cooking. You can also contact your travel agencies for having a cook. However if  you are staying in teahouses you will have options of Traditional Nepali food,  Indian foods and continental foods. Foods usually cost 2-4$.  

Transportation 

Bus– Bus is one of the best way to travel to anywhere. Here, you can take a ride  from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj which will take you 11-12 hours and cost you  around 1200-1300 NRS. From Nepalgunj only flight is available to Simikot.  

Airplane– The only facility of airplane provided is from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj  and Nepalgunj to Simikot which takes 45 minutes. You need to walk from there to  reach your destination.  

Communication and electronic  

Electricity is provided all along the way. You can charge your phone or electronics  by paying the owner extra money. It might cost you 2-3$ for charging. The  telephone service is provided by the teahouses itself however you have to pay  extra for it as well. The mobile coverage might be slight problem in the way.  

Safety/security/fitness 

Trekking to any place can be physically and mentally demanding. You need to  prepare yourself for the journey since trek to Saipal base camp is all about  walking 6-7 hours per day. It is obvious that you need to be in a good health and  proper physical state in order to make this journey. You can always practice some  running, jogging and light exercise to keep you prepare. However past  experiences of trekking or climbing is not really required. It is also likely to suffer  from altitude sickness when you are trekking to high and risky places like Saipal  base camp. Throughout the journey you need to be hydrated and have nutritional  foods. It is better to have an oximetry with you so that you can check your oxygen  level time to time. If you ever feel like having difficulties in breathe than you can  immediately contact your guide or friends.

Other requirements  

Travel Insurance– Travel insurance has become the part of trekking requirements.  If you ever have some medical emergencies your travel insurance will have to bear it and that is why you need to mention the details about the places you are  going and altitudes you will be reaching. Insurance depends on the details you  have mentioned earlier.  

Visa/passports – All foreigners except Indians are required to have valid visa and  passports to enter Nepal. The visa application will need the passport having  minimum 6 months of validation along with your passport size photo. You will  receive your visa upon your arrival at tribhuwan international airports.