Trip Overview
Khaptad National Park, a hidden gem in Nepal's far-western region, beckons with its promise of adventure and exploration. It offers a tranquil and pristine trekking experience for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers. The Khaptad Trek takes trekkers through the national park's picturesque landscapes, which are rich in biodiversity, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. This off-the-beaten-path trek provides a thrilling retreat in the lap of the Himalayas, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature and discover the region's unique offerings.
The Khaptad Trek typically starts from the small town of Silgadhi in the Doti district. It follows a scenic trail through remote villages, lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes before reaching the heart of Khaptad National Park. The national park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, pine trees, medicinal herbs, and wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and various bird species.
One of the main highlights of the Khaptad Trek is the Khaptad Plateau, a vast expanse of grasslands surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks. The plateau is not just a scenic wonder, but a sacred site with deep religious significance. It is home to the Khaptad Baba Ashram, a spiritual retreat established by the revered Hindu saint Khaptad Baba. The ashram serves as a pilgrimage site for devotees seeking spiritual solace, meditation, and self-realization in the tranquil surroundings of the Himalayan wilderness, inspiring a sense of connection and peace.
Trekkers on the Khaptad Trek can visit the Khaptad Baba Ashram, explore the surrounding meadows, and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range from vantage points within the national park. The trek offers opportunities for bird watching, wildlife spotting, and nature photography, allowing trekkers to connect with the natural world and appreciate the beauty of untouched landscapes.
The Khaptad Trek is not just about nature; it's a cultural journey. It's an opportunity to interact with the local communities, known for their warm hospitality, traditional culture, and unique way of life. Experience the authentic rural lifestyle, savor local cuisine, and delve into the customs and traditions of the diverse ethnic groups that call this area home.
The Khaptad trekking route offers a range of options, from moderate day hikes to longer multi-day treks, catering to trekkers of all fitness levels and preferences. Along the trail, trekkers can choose to camp in designated campgrounds or stay in basic lodges and homestays, enjoying the rustic charm and simplicity of mountain life.
Itinerary
Cost Include
- Trekking permit fees as per program
- National Park and TIMS Permits
- Equipment: Trekking tents, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Table and chairs, Mattresses during the trekking.
- Food for trekking (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Mountain Guide, Cook, Kitchen & necessary porters, Yaks or Pony.
- Local transportation Airport – Hotel – Airport by private vehicle
- Domestic flight arrangement as per program
- Accommodation in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj on bed & breakfast basis
- Trekking insurance with Medical insurance for trekking staffs
- Trekking allowance, food allowance for trekking crews
- flight ticket and land transportation for Trekking staffs
- All Government Tax &Service charge to company
Cost Exclude
- Personal equipment for Trekking
- Personal Insurance for travel to Nepal
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj
- Emergency Rescue evacuation if needed
- Trekking Sleeping bag
- Personal expenses
- Tipping (Tips) for staff
- Filmy permit for National park (Only for shooting camera)
- Bar bills & Beverages
Equipment list for Khaptad Trek
This checklist is designed to help you prepare for a trekking holiday in Nepal, with additional notes for those attempting to summit a trekking peak. It's reassuring to know that high-quality gear, including outdoor clothing and sleeping bags, can be conveniently rented in Kathmandu.
Most treks will be in lodges or teahouses, which offer basic rooms with two single beds and mattresses. These lodges, with their cozy rooms and provided blankets, ensure a comfortable stay, making your trek a more enjoyable experience. A good-quality three-season sleeping bag should suffice. However, for trekking peaks, you'll generally set up base camp with tents, necessitating a warmer sleeping bag, a liner to enhance its warmth, and a sleeping mattress.
| TRAVEL DOCUMENTS | HEAD |
| Debit/Credit Cards | Sun Cap |
| PP Size Photo (2 Pieces) | Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs) |
| Insurance Paper And Contact Address. | Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs) |
| Family Members / Company’s Contact | Head Lamp with extra batteries |
| Address | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
| Travel Insurance | Balaclava |
| HANDS AND FEET | UPPER BODY |
| Light Liner & Down Gloves | Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs) |
| Normal Socks (5-6 Pairs) | Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Trekking Shoes | Gore Tex Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Slipper (1 Pair) | Down Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Camp Shoes | Quick Dry T-Shirt (2 Pcs) |
| Hiking Boot with ankle support | Wind breaker/Windproof Jacket |
| LOWER BODY | PERSONAL EQUIPMENT |
| Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs) | Down Sleeping Bag -10°C to -20°C |
| Fleece Trouser (1pcs) | Headlamp (Rechargeable Batteries) |
| Gore Tex Pant (1 pcs) | Trekking Pole |
| Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants(2-3 Pairs) | Rucksacks 35L - 45L/Day Bag |
| Gaiters for trekking boots | Rain Pancho & Umbrella |
| Under Wear (4 pcs) | Powerbank |
| EATING & DRINKING | TOILETRIES |
| Energy Bar | Hand Disinfectant |
| Snacks | Wet Tissue |
| Water Bottle | Tooth Paste & Tooth Brush |
| Thermos | Soap & Shampoo |
| MEDICAL/FIRST AID | MISCELLANEOUS |
| Severe Pain Killer (Flexon) | Lip Balm |
| Mild Pain Killer (Paracetamol) | Sunscreen |
| Throat Lozengen (Strepsils) | Moisturizer |
| Lubricating Eye Drop (Artificial Tear) | Quick Dry Towel |
| Antacid Tab | Trails Maps |
| Electrolyte Tab | Trekking Poles |
| Handy Plast | Sun Cream (30-50 Spf) |
| Blister Blast | Lip Guard (30-50 Spf) |
| Crep Bandage (Elastic Bandage) | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |