Makalu Base Camp Trek

Makalu Barun National Parkratingbased on 1 review
  • Duration21 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 4870 meter
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Best Season March to May and September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$1890
2 - 6 paxUS$1690
7 - 10 paxUS$1590
11 - 15 paxUS$1545
16 - 20 paxUS$1495
Makalu Base Camp Trek Highlights
  • Makalu Barun National Park and its wealth of unique flora and fauna
  • The intriguing and untouched culture of the various ethnic groups that populate the region
  • Touching down on the ramparts of the world’s fifth-highest mountain and its base camp
  • Unmatched panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and countless other peaks in the area

Makalu Barun National Park

Established in 1992, Makalu Barun is one of Nepal’s newest national parks. The park represents the world’s only protected area with an elevation gain of more than 8000 meters, with Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest peak, at its core. It encloses a diverse assortment of flora and fauna that ranges from tropical forests in the south to the soaring snow-capped backdrop of the Himalayas in the north.

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a less frequented route due to its relative isolation and remote setting, offering an ideal opportunity for hardier or more experienced trekkers to explore a pristine region of wide-ranging natural beauty and glorious scenery, including Everest, all while in the quiet comfort and solitude that comes from being well away from the madding crowds.

Journey From Kathmandu To Makalu Base Camp

The Makalu trek begins with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar, from where we’ll head out toward the village of Num (1560 m) the following day. Along the way, we’ll encounter a ridgeline with a steeply undulating trail snaking along its length that affords some of the finest panoramic views you’re ever likely to come across in the Himalayas. From there, we’ll make our way to Seduwa (1500  m), where we’ll call in at the local outpost of the national park to register and obtain the necessary permits before moving on again towards Tashi Gaun (2100 m), the last permanent settlement in the valley.

The trail continues onward and upward to the next goal, the high pass of Shipton La, named after famed British alpinist Eric Shipton, who used the route with Edmund Hillary in 1952 to make a survey of Everest for the following year’s successful expedition to the mountain. Finally, comes the trek’s ultimate goal, Makalu Base Camp itself, from where you’ll be presented with spectacular views of the southern face of the mountain, as well as a glorious panorama of Everest and Lhotse reaching toward the heavens. After spending an appropriate amount of time breathing in and memorizing every last memorable aspect of the view, it will be time to reluctantly head back to Tumlingtar, with fresh aspects and experiences to bring new perspectives to the journey.

Useful Information

Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is the grandeur result of nature’s majestic gifts and raw challenges amidst the trails. As you might have heard, this particular trek is one of the most strenuous trekking trails in Nepal that pushes the limit of both your physical endurance and mental fortitude.

But you might have a question. The Makalu Base Camp Trek, unlike any other routes, does not go to higher altitude levels above 4,870 meters so, what makes it strenuous? Well, for starters, the constant elevation gain and loss makes this trek physically demanding. Just within five days of your trekking (including the flight day from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar), you will reach the highest pass of this trek, the Shipton La Pass at an altitude of 4,200 meters. 

To elaborate, the trekking distance from one point to another is usually short but it gains or loses altitude really fast. For instance, the first day of trekking to Seduwa is only 4.9 kilometers but involves an elevation gain of 786 meters and an elevation loss of 322 meters. Similarly, the trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma Danda is 5.85 kilometers but has an elevation gain of 1,368 meters. 

Hence, with this constant change in altitude levels and spending most of the trek above 3,500 meters, the risk of altitude-related issues remains high. Since your body does not get enough time to adapt to its surroundings, you may start to face symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, and nausea. Therefore, pacing your body and keeping yourself hydrated while proper acclimatization is crucial. It is not an option but a necessity. 

Another concerning factor that contributes to the difficulty of the Makalu Base Camp is the terrain. Starting from lush greenery of verdant valleys, subtropical forests, and meadows, the route takes you through dynamic landscapes. 

Here, a lot of the trekking trails consist of steep ascents and descents with stone staircases. In fact, some staircases are almost 50 degrees. Furthermore, the paths are uneven and rocky with the presence of Barun River on occasional points making the path more complex. Altogether, the landscapes are a bit gentler before reaching the base camp, however, the risk of altitude sickness will be there. 

Lastly, the remoteness and isolation of this trekking route can be a double-edged sword. While you will find peace and tranquility along the way, the facilities are limited and basic compared to classic trekking routes as Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, etc.

Overall, the combination of changing altitude levels, high passes, challenging terrain, remoteness of the region, and weather conditions, all contribute to the trek’s demanding nature.

Best Time For Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes you to the foothills of the world’s fifth-highest peak, Mount Makalu. With the unique topography of the region, timing is a pivotal factor in making this trek worthwhile. 

Additionally, weather conditions have a direct impact on the outcome of the journey regarding visibility, accessibility, and difficulty. Nepal Trekking Experts recommend you embark on the Makalu Base Camp Trek during Autumn and Spring for optimal views, trail conditions, and enjoyment. 

The Autumn season starting from September to November is the post-monsoon season that offers excellent visibility, clear skies, and stable weather. After months-long downpours, it brings a fresher perspective of the region washing away the dirt and providing a prime window with the panoramic views of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Manaslu, and other surrounding peaks. 

Furthermore, the air is crisp and cool during Autumn with the backdrop of crystal clear blue skies. Generally, the temperature during this season ranges from 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes and from -5°C to 10°C at higher altitudes. If you book your trek in October, you will also get an opportunity to witness the greatest festivals of Nepalese, Dashain, and Tihar. 

Indeed, Autumn sets a clear mood with festivities rolling by. Not to mention, this particular season is also a spectacular chance for photography. 

Moving on to another favorable season, Spring brings calm weather with warm and sunny days. Usually, this time of the year brings bright days and comfortable temperatures that range from 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes and from -5°C to 10°C at higher altitudes. 

Here, one of the major highlights during the Spring season is the vibrant colors that it brings alongside itself. If you are trekking at this time of the year, you will see lush greenery and colorful blooms of rhododendron and magnolia. In the meantime, you will also have a higher chance to see the wildlife during the season as most of them come out from their long winter sleep. 

Having said that the Spring season brings the most favorable conditions, so we recommend you schedule your travels during the middle of April to enjoy this season in its prime. Usually, even till early April, you will see some parts of the trails that are still covered in snow. Likewise, the Monsoon / Summer season starts early at the Makalu Base Camp Trekking trail and it is the second wettest area in Nepal. 

Talking about the Monsoon season, it brings constant heavy rainfall in the area making it hot and humid. The temperature often ranges from 15°C to 25°C at lower altitudes and from 5°C to 15°C at higher altitudes. 

During this time, the region is typically covered with heavy clouds of rain and fog hence, limiting your visibility and obstructing the views of the Himalayas. In addition to it, the continuous downpour makes the trail much more slippery and muddy making the terrain more challenging. 

While this season brings the best out of water bodies, it always poses a risk of potential floods or landslides in the region. If you have trekking scheduled for this season, make sure to prepare well with necessary items and be prepared for issues such as flight cancellation or blocked paths. Hence, a buffer period is always recommended to add to your itinerary. 

Lastly, the Winter in the Makalu Base Camp is harsh with freezing temperatures ranging between 5°C to 15°C at lower altitudes and from -15°C to 5°C at higher altitudes. Similarly, this season brings heavy snowfall often blocking the trails at the higher altitude level.

Here, the winter season shines a completely different light on this trail offering stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. While this trek is still doable with the right gear and prior experience, we do not recommend it to first-time or beginner trekkers. 

Permits

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to the Makalu Base Camp, you will need two trekking permits. 

 

The first permit is the Makalu National Park Permit, which grants access to the protected areas of the Makalu-Barun National Park. This will cost you NRs 3,000. Likewise, the second permit you will need is the Makalu Rural Municipality Area Permit which allows you to trek through the local administrative areas of Makalu. This particular permit will cost you NRs 2,000. 

Altogether, you will get these permits from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or through the local trekking agency that you are trekking from. Additionally, you will require your original passport with a valid visa and a pair of passport-size photos to obtain this permit. 

Transportation

The start of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is marked by a 30 to 35-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. During this flight, you will get an aerial glimpse of the lush greenery and Himalayan foothills that you will soon be exploring. 

Now, as you reach the bustling town of Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal, you will take a jeep ride to the trailhead at Num. This ride will take you through the winding roads of the surrounding hills and lasts for about 5 to 6 hours. 

Here, the transition from Tumlingtar to Num will introduce you to the remoteness and rural lifestyle of this region. For your ride to the starting point of the trek, Num, we recommend you take a private jeep for better scenery and a comfortable journey. 

Meals 

The dining you will enjoy during the Makalu Base Camp will greatly fuel you throughout the journey. Unlike the popular trekking trails as Annapurna Circuit Trek, this trail will offer simple yet flavorful dishes that will provide you with the local taste of rural lifestyle. 

Yet again, you will find several food items on the menu to relish. A typical day starts with a hearty breakfast, followed by a heavy lunch, and a fulfilling dinner. Generally, the food items you will find include noodles, soups, stews, eggs, breads, boiled potatoes, porridge, stews, and tea varieties. 

One of the major foods you shouldn’t miss during the trek is everyday Nepalese cuisine Dal Bhat Tarkari (rice, lentil soups, and curry). This traditional dish is the reason behind the balanced calories and high-end energy in most local people’s lives. Often, the taste of this classic dish differs with tea houses and the curry also varies with the vegetable options that are available. 

Since every food you eat in this journey is basic, hence, you should not expect fine dining. Moving on, you will get boiled water to drink in every tea house and we recommend you carry a reusable bottle with water purification tablets so that you can also enjoy the water from the natural streams. 

Lastly, you can also carry some light snacks such as nuts, berries, chocolate bars, and candies to munch on during the trek. 

Accommodation

While the trails of the Makalu Base Camp Trek are surprisingly well-maintained, the tea houses during the journey are pretty basic with little to no facilities. Most of the trail offers you accommodation in huts. 

Therefore, the accommodation lacks privacy and it is also not very comfortable due to the absence of insulation. Usually, the rooms are small and the washroom is a common place outside of the rooms. 

On a similar note, there are no proper heating facilities which is why we ask you to carry an insulated sleeping bag with you. 

Telephone, Internet, And Charging

It is true that the Makalu Base Camp takes you to a complete wilderness. Despite the influence of modernity and rapid advancements in technology, this particular trek leaves you in complete remoteness as there is little to no connection with the outside world. 

As you embark on this journey, prepare yourself to disconnect digitally as this trekking route does not have internet and wifi connection. While you may get a wifi signal at the lower elevation of the trail, it is rare. 

Similarly, the telephone services are disappointing with poor network coverage and unreliable service. Some of them might have satellite phones which are generally only used at the time of emergencies. 

Lastly, we recommend you carry solar-powered chargers and extra batteries for your digital devices. This is because you will not find electricity-powered charging points as you climb higher. 

Porter

There is no doubt that the Makalu Base Camp is a physically demanding and logistically complex trek. That being said, it should also come as no surprise that the journey will be tiring, and with extra baggage on your back, it can directly impact on your trek’s outcome. 

Hence, hiring a porter is in fact a practical solution that will not only relieve you of your physical burden but also assure you to complete the trek. Generally, the local porters you hire are more than just carriers, they have extensive knowledge of the region. 

Here, a porter will carry around 20 kg of weight and oftentimes, two trekkers hire one porter. Additionally, a porter will cost you USD ___ a day excluding tips. One of the major satisfaction of hiring is to see your hard-earned money being used for the right cause. 

Most porters depend on this income to sustain their livelihood and hence, by employing them, you directly contribute to the betterment of someone’s life.

Packing List For Makalu Base Camp Trek

Keeping the difficulty level, trail, and weather conditions in mind, you should pack the necessary items while avoiding extra weight for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. While packing you should understand that your list will determine the outcome of the trek. 

Altogether, here is a comprehensive guide to packing the items you will need for the trek. 

Clothing

Long sleeve thermal body wears

Trekking T-shirt

Fleece jacket and pants

Heavy down jacket

Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants

Inner wears

Woolen gloves

Trekking shorts

Sun hat

Sunglasses

Footwear

Lightweight and quick-drying socks

Quality trekking boots with ankle support

Hiking sandals

Slipper

Extra Items

Trekking poles

Insulated sleeping bag

Flashlight

Female hygiene products

Reusable water bottles

Water purification tablets

First-aid kits

Personal medication

Wet wipes

Soap bar

Lip balm

Quick-drying towel

Power bank

Camera

Chargers

Travel Insurance

While trekking to remote and isolated areas such as the Makalu Base Camp, travel insurance is not an option but a necessity. Though how beautiful the Makalu Base Camp Trek is; it has some level of risk as you may stumble across unforeseen circumstances that may hamper your journey. 

Therefore, when you buy an insurance plan, the coverage should go beyond the basic coverage. Given the trek’s terrain, remoteness, and isolated nature, covering medical expenses and emergency helicopter evacuation is a must. Also, ensure that these costs are paid at the time of emergency rather than having to reimburse them later. 

Additionally, when buying the travel insurance plan, it should also cover your trip cancellations, lost or delayed luggage, and other logistical issues. Having this will provide you peace of mind during the journey.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Welcome at the airport and transfer to your hotel. An introduction to your trekking program then the rest of the day at your leisure to enjoy the sights, sounds, and culture of Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Free day for final trekking preparation, trekking gear checking, guide meeting, team brief and welcome dinner.

  • Max. Altitude:1560m/5118ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Scenic morning flight to Tumlingtar with views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. A four-hour drive through the beautiful Arun Valley leads to the trek's starting point at the village of Num.

  • Max. Altitude:1500m/4921ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The first day of trekking is spent descending through terraced fields and the scenic region of Lumbang. The trail then begins an arduous climb to Seduwa for the first night's rest.

  • Max. Altitude:2100m/6890ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A day spent roaming through pasturelands, terraced fields, and over numerous brooks and streams, with a final push to Tashi Gaon.

  • Max. Altitude:3500m/11483ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trek's first real challenge is spent hiking to an elevation of 1400 meters. It's a rewarding day though as the trail leads through forests and picturesque Lakelands to a series of roughly hewn steps that lead up to Khongma Danda and the Barun Valley.

  • Max. Altitude:3500m/11483ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A perfectly timed day to rest and let the body acclimate from the gain in altitude.

  • Max. Altitude:3650m/11975ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trail to the pass of Shipton La (4125m) presents another challenging and rewarding day, with stunning views of the surrounding ranges.  Passing the pretty lake of Kalo Pokhari, the trail leads over the next pass of Keke La (4170m) and descends to the village of Dobate.

  • Max. Altitude:3557m/11670ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trail leads through the Barun Valley, following a strenuous pathway that eventually levels out and winds at a more comfortable pace to Yangle Kharka.

  • Max. Altitude:4410m/14469ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Another day of steep hiking, tramping between the valley's sheer walls on either side and on towards Merek and its scenic outlook. The wildlife is abundant, including yak herds dotting the landscape. The day concludes with another steep climb to Langmale and a well-earned rest for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:4630m/15190ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The forests of rhododendron and pine gradually cede to the alpine terrain of the highlands as the trail continues to climb. The views along the trail are among the best on the trek.

  • Max. Altitude:4870m/15978ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Today the trek reaches its chief destination, Makalu Base Camp, with its superb views of the mountain looming high above, as well as incredible views across to Everest and Lhotse.

  • Max. Altitude:4870m/15978ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Unlike many tour operators who offer just a fleeting base camp experience, the day at Makalu is a full one that incorporates a cautious visit to Barun Glacier as well as the opportunity to sit back and bask in some of the most incomparable mountain views anywhere in the Himalayas.

  • Max. Altitude:3557m/11670ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A rapid descent through Sherson, Langmale, and Merek to Yangle Kharka, covering in a day's march the same amount of territory that took two days on the way up - the benefits of going downhill!

  • Max. Altitude:3650m/11975ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Another day of steady trekking as the trail leads back down, offering entirely new perspectives of the increasingly green landscapes and scenery.

  • Max. Altitude:3500m/11483ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A day of passes, first the climb over Keke La, then Shipton La as the trail gradually descends into the forested regions of the valley, complete with rhododendrons which, if in bloom, showcase Nepal's national flower.

  • Max. Altitude:1500m/4921ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Steep descents wait along precipitous trails and forested pathways that repay the effort with beautiful views of the surrounding valley.

  • Max. Altitude:1560m/5118ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

On the final day of the journey, hiking through the imposing walls of the valley, with a last view of the familiar villages, streams, and forests from the outward journey. A final night at Num allows time to relax and reflect, appreciating your well-earned accomplishment.

  • Max. Altitude:520m/1706ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A morning drive by jeep takes us on the return leg to Tumlingtar and the opportunity for another day of rest to allow the body to recuperate from the trek.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

Time to savor Kathmandu one last time and perhaps have a farewell dinner with friends before departure.

    Pickup from the hotel and drop-off at Kathmandu Airport.

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
    • All necessary trekking permits, such as the Makalu Barun National Park permit, the TIMS card, etc.
    • All accommodation during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • If and when available, fresh fruit should be provided every day.
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, and sleeping bag
    • Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid trained local guide
    • First-aid kit
    • Return flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax or VAT
    • Certificate of Achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs in the city (temples, monasteries, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, WiFi, etc.
    • Tip for staff
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SundayDec 15, 2024
    End:SaturdayJan 04, 2025
    PriceUS$1890
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:WednesdayDec 25, 2024
    End:TuesdayJan 14, 2025
    PriceUS$1890
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the group departure dates? Aside from that, we organize private trips or any special dates you prefer. Let's talk to our local specialist now.

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    1Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Makalu Base Camp trek

      In May 2019, I organized solo trek to Makalu Base Camp and again 4th time used the services of the Nepal Trekking Experts. The less explored and challenging trekking route required a lot of effort due to bad weather. However with an enormous help of the Nepal Trekking Experts, the trek did not affected. While the agency owner Rajesh keep checking weather forecast and updating us and providing us professional advice, we had more confident and positive. Without their massif help the trip won't be possible. You will never regret choosing them for your adventure in Nepal and for sure I am using their service soon

      E
      ElenaSep 09, 2019Russia
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