Api Nampa and the Byas valley
In Nepali: अपि नाम्पा र ब्यास उपत्यका · Also known as: Api Himal · Byas · Tinkar · अपि नाम्पा
Api Nampa Conservation Area, created in 2010, covers the mountains of northern Darchula, including Api (7,132 m) and Nampa. Its forests and alpine meadows shelter musk deer, Himalayan tahr and snow leopards.
In the Byas valley along the upper Mahakali, the Byansi (Sauka) people have their own language and traditions and historically traded with Tibet over the Tinkar and Lipu Lekh passes. Treks to Api base camp and Tinkar are remote and require permits and a guide.
What to see and do
Trek from Khalanga up the Mahakali valley through Byas villages such as Changru and Tinkar, see the Api Himal and the approaches to the Tinkar pass, and experience the Byansi culture with its distinctive dress, festivals and houses.
Good to know
Permits are needed for the conservation area and the restricted border areas. Facilities are basic; go with a guide. The road along the Mahakali is being extended and may be under construction.
Quick answers
- Where is Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- Api Nampa and the Byas valley is in Darchula district, Sudurpashchim Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- About 7,132 m (23,400 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- For a 13-day trip from Dhangadhi, about NPR 73,000 (≈ US$540) per person on a budget, or NPR 109,000 (≈ US$805) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 38,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- Plan 10 nights there for the trek; with travel from Dhangadhi and back, about 13 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 2,000 / US$15 to enter the Api Nampa Conservation Area (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- May–June; September–October
- How do I get to Api Nampa and the Byas valley?
- Long drive to Darchula Khalanga, then trek north along the Mahakali. It is about 133 km (straight line) from Dhangadhi.
- What is Api Nampa and the Byas valley called in Nepali?
- अपि नाम्पा र ब्यास उपत्यका
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