Far West

 Overview

The Far West section of Nepal's Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) is emerging as a vibrant destination in the cultural and tourism sectors, thanks to its distinct culture and extraordinary natural beauty. From the renowned spiritual hub of the Khaptad area to sacred power places like Badimalika and stunning mountain peaks such as Api and Saipal, the far west region captivates travelers with its perfect blend of cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The area also shares a spiritual connection with the religious sites of Uttarakhand, India, particularly those dedicated to Durga and Tara, and holds the potential to serve as a gateway to the sacred Mt. Kailash and Manasarovar.

The Far West section is a region shrouded in mystery and steeped in tradition. Bounded by the majestic Karnali River to the east, it remains one of Nepal's least explored areas. Myth and superstition pervade the landscape, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Travelers may encounter turbaned shamans known as Dhamis along the trails, hailed for their healing abilities. Organized tourism is limited in the area, with Khaptad National Park standing as a cherished conservation area. Its gentle hills, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife offer a stunning backdrop for trekking, with peaks like Api, Nampa, and Saipal gracing the horizon.

Travelers may encounter turbaned shamans known as Dhamis along the trails, hailed for their healing abilities. Organized tourism is limited in the area, with Khaptad National Park standing as a cherished conservation area. Its gentle hills, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife offer a stunning backdrop for trekking, with peaks like Api, Nampa, and Saipal gracing the horizon.

The region holds deep religious significance, closely associated with Khaptad Swami, a revered ascetic known for his wisdom. Festivals like Janai Purnima attract pilgrims from far and wide, adding to the area's spiritual allure. Gaura is a famous dance throughout the far west region. While trekking here presents some challenges primarily due to the limited infrastructures, the journey into this forgotten world promises an unforgettable adventure.

The area is home to two notable protected areas, Khaptad National Park and Api Nampa Conservation Area.

Khaptad National Park: Khaptad National Park. Khaptad National Park, located in the far-western region of Nepal, was established in 1984 and spans an area of 225 square kilometers. As the only mid-mountain national park in western Nepal, it represents a unique and vital ecosystem, distinct from any other protected area in the country. This distinctive environment attracted the renowned Khaptad Swami (Baba), who chose it as the ideal place for his search for self-discovery and introspection.

Api Nampa Conservation Area (ANCA): The northwestern corner of the region has been protected as Api Nampa Conservation Area (ANCA) by the government of Nepal since 2010, named after the two prominent peaks, Api and Nampa. The conservation area spans 1,903 square kilometers, covering all wards of Byas Rural Municipality (RM), Api Himal RM, Marma RM, and Duhu RM, as well as partial areas of Naugad RM and Mahakali Municipality in Darchula. The ANCA is bordered by the Mahakali River along the international boundary with India to the west, the boundary with Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China to the north, Bajhang and Baitadi districts to the east, and Lasku and Naugad to the south. ANCA is renowned for its rich biodiversity, outstandingly beautiful natural landscape and rich cultural heritage.

 Highlights

• Mystical Charm: The Far West is one of the least explored areas of Nepal, steeped in myth and superstition, offering travelers a glimpse into a world seemingly frozen in time.

• Cultural Richness: This region is home to the origin of the Nepali language and boasts a culture that feels distant from modern Nepal, resembling a journey back to the 18th century.

• Shamanic Traditions: Encounter turbaned Dhamis, or shamans, adorned with silver bangles and gold rings, who are famous for their traditional healing practices and spiritual guidance.

• Sacred Sites: Khaptad Triveni Dham, Ramaroshan, Badimalika, Surma Sarovar are some of the prominent power-places with abundant natural beauties in the far west region.

• Scenic Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes, with colorful patans (fatas) like Khaptad and snow-capped peaks like Nampa, Api, and Saipal providing a stunning backdrop to the region's pristine forests and rolling hills.

Route Map

Photos & Vidos

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