Saipal: The Himalayan Gem of the Gurans

Tucked away in the Gurans and Saipal mountain ranges, Saipal stands as a testament to nature's grandeur. With its towering height of 7,031 meters (23,064 feet), it's a beacon for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Location Highlights:

  • Province: Spanning both Karnali Pradesh and Sudhurpashchim Pradesh.
  • Mountain Range: Gurans/Saipal
  • Districts: Humla and Bajhang
  • Municipalities: Namkha and Kanda

Historic Moments: The first footprints on Saipal's summit were made on October 21, 1963. Katsuotoshi Hirabayashi and Pasang Phutar Sherpa (I) were the pioneers who achieved this feat.

Traveler's Guide:

  • Nearby Facilities:
    • Safety First: Simikot offers both police and army posts, located 42.6 km away.
    • Medical Needs: Dandaphaya, 39.5 km away, is your go-to for healthcare.
    • Local Experience: A mere 7.9 km away lies the nearest settlement, offering a glimpse into local life.
  • Royalty Fees:
    • Nepalese: Spring sees a fee of NRs. 6000, autumn NRs. 3000, and winter a modest NRs. 1500.
    • Foreign adventurers: $500 in spring, $250 in autumn, and a cozy $125 in winter.
  • Journey to Saipal: Kickstart your adventure with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalganj, followed by Simikot. The trek that follows covers 42.6 km, meandering through places like Kermi and Yalbang, leading you to the base camp. The ascent? A 17.5KM challenge that promises memories for a lifetime, all wrapped up in 60 days.

For those who hear the mountains' call, Saipal is a dream waiting to be realized. It's not just a peak; it's a story, an adventure, and a memory in the making.