'Api Himal base camp: A hidden gem of Sudurpashchim

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, June 5: The Api Himal Base Camp, located in Darchula district, is a unique and captivating tourist destination. Situated at an altitude of 3,900 metres above sea level, the base camp offers a close and stunning view of the 7,000-metre-high Api Himal, whose shimmering peak resembles a high plateau. The vast, flat meadow of the base camp adds a distinctive charm to the place.

To the northwest, one can reach the source of the Chaulani River nearby. A two-hour walk eastward leads to the Kalidhunga Lake, located at an altitude of 4,200 metres. Heading an hour north from the base camp reveals another vast and lush green valley.

With the aim of promoting this exceptional destination in Sudurpashchim, a unique literary trek titled 'Api Kavya Yatra – 2082' was organised. This remarkable journey included not only poetry recitations but also yoga and meditation sessions.

Organised by Api Himal Rural Municipality with support from the Nepal Tourism Board, the literary trek began on May 25 with a team of poets and writers. A group of 12 poets, writers, and journalists from Kathmandu participated in the Kavya Yatra. Under the management of the rural municipality, they undertook a trekking journey to the Api Himal Base Camp. 

Along the way, the local authorities warmly welcomed the team with cultural programmes and home-stay experiences. At the base camp, the participants presented their literary creations while exploring the region's natural beauty. They also engaged in discussions on the tourism potential of the base camp and the wider Sudurpashchim region.

The journey was attended by writers Prabha Baral, Kumari Lama, Laxmi Rumba, Shanti Tamang,  Avaya Shrestha, Sagar Udas, Ghanshyam Khadka, Dipendra Singh Thapa, Anupam Rosi,  blogger Ghanshyam Paudel, Rajkumar Gajurel and  photo journalist and tourism promoter Balkuram Pun. Moreover, chairman of Api Himal Rural Municipality, Bhakta Singh Thekare Bohora, Ward Chairpersons and officials also participated in the foot walk that started from Makarigadh of Darchula to Naupata, Dhanbora, Ghusa, Nali, Siti, Arukhod, Chharchhare, Bhallekhola, Simar, Dhauliodar and Api Himal basecamp.

"The journey to Api Himal Base Camp was a truly unparalleled experience for me," said participating photo journalist Balkuram Pun. "This region is a hidden gem in terms of tourism."

Chairperson Bohora expressed hope that such literary treks involving writers and poets would play a significant role in the promotion of tourism in the region. He added, "This initiative has opened the door for international writers to consider this region as a backdrop for their writing in the future."