Trip Duration

21 Days

Group Sizes

0-15 People

Transportation

Ground and Flight

Destination

Makalu Base Camp Trek

Max. Altitude

4870 m

Nature of Trip

Trekking

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Activities

City tour
Trekking

Difficulty

Difficult

Meals

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Start & End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodation

Tea Houses
4 star

Overview of Makalu Base Camp Trek

Mount Makalu is the fifth highest peak in the world at 8,481 meters, but it is recognized as one of Nepal’s most challenging and thrilling trekking peaks. On the other hand, it does not have the same level of popularity as other trekking sites in Nepal, which means that its off-beaten pathways are significantly less crowded and more conducive to solitude. Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the most neglected trekking routes in Nepal.

The Makalu Base Camp Trip is the ideal trek for those with a thirst for adventure who are interested in exploring the remote regions of the Himalayas and gaining insight into the Himalayan culture and the way of life of people who live at higher elevations. There are daily flights to Tumlingtar, which is only a few hours’ drive from the trailhead, and there are rudimentary lodges along the road. Despite this, getting there is not too difficult. The hike to Makalu Base Camp is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who are interested in seeing a diversity of cultures and landscapes, as well as gaining unique perspectives of some of the highest mountains in the world, such as Mount Everest. At the start of the trek, you will be in a warm area with terraced farming that is mostly inhabited by the Rai people. The Rai are an ethnic group that may be found in the hills of eastern Nepal. You will travel through rhododendron forests (which are at their most breathtaking in the summer or fall, when the flowers bloom in amazing shades of red, purple, pink, and white) and cloud forests, as well as some of the last areas of unspoiled forest and alpine grasslands in Nepal, as the trail climbs higher and higher. Further into the highlands, when you pass the Barun River Valley, you will come across breathtaking waterfalls, glaciers, and granite cliffs that are very steep.

The Sherpas are an ethnically Tibetan people who live primarily in the Everest region, which can be found at higher elevations. The Kangshung face of Everest, which is rarely seen, as well as Lhotse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga from the far east are all seen from the Makalu Base Camp, which offers amazing views of these mountains. It is the eighth-largest national park in Nepal and covers a total area of 2,330 square kilometers. Makalu Barun National Park is home to some of the most endangered species of flora and fauna in Nepal, such as the red panda.

Major Highlights of Makalu Base Camp Trek

Barun Valley

Barun Valley is the major highlight of the Makalu Base Camp trek and is also known for its diverse range of landscapes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s home to various flora and fauna, including endangered species. The Barun valley is also home to the Barun River. It is a peaceful and quiet place where you can learn about the traditional culture and customs of the local people and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It’s a unique and picturesque destination that offers a diverse range of landscapes, stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and an opportunity to learn about the traditional culture and customs of the local people.

Diverse ranges of landscapes

The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes you through a diverse range of landscapes and terrains, making it a unique and memorable trekking experience. The Makalu Base Camp Trek starts in the subtropical lowlands of the Arun River valley and gradually takes you through lush subtropical forests, dense rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows as you gain altitude. As you go up in elevation, you will enter a dry, high-altitude desert with rocky terrain and few plants. The views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Makalu, become increasingly dramatic as you climb higher. The trek ends at Makalu Base Camp, which is 5000 meters high and has a stunning view of Mount Makalu and the other mountains nearby.

Shersong Village

Shersong, a small village in the Arun Valley, is one of the highlights of the Makalu Base Camp trek, known for its traditional Sherpa culture and lifestyle. It offers an opportunity to learn about the culture and customs of the local people and experience the traditional way of life in the Himalayas. The Shersong village is known for its stone houses, traditional Tibetan architecture, and traditional Tibetan and Sherpa textiles and handicrafts. The trail offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and an opportunity to see different species of birds and wildlife. It also offers a chance to try traditional local cuisine of the Sherpa culture.

Best season for the Makalu Base Camp Circuit Trek

The best time to go for the Makalu Base Camp trek is during the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) trekking seasons, as this is when the weather is most likely to be at its best and temperatures are tolerable (particularly at low and mid-elevations). This trek can be done in the winter, although the cold weather might be a problem, especially because the lodgings in this area aren’t particularly well furnished.

Difficulty for Makalu Base Camp Trek

This is one of the most difficult treks in Nepal due to the actual distance traveled (about 200 km), elevation, weather uncertainty, and fatality and casualty rates on the trek.

Access to basic supplies, health facilities, and protection and safety services on the trail. Your ability to successfully trek in the Makalu region will depend on your level of planning,

discipline, and safety measures.

Fitness for Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging trek that requires trekkers to be in good physical condition. To prepare for the trek, you must engage in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, hikes, and altitude training, if possible. It’s important to also consult with a doctor before attempting this trek. It’s important to note that the trek involves crossing passes that are over 5,000 meters high, so having a good physical condition and being able to handle the altitude is essential. It’s also important to remember that preparation for the trek is not only about physical fitness but also about mental preparation, having good gear and equipment, and having the right attitude.

Conclusion

Green Horizon provides all forms and varieties of travel and tourism services in Nepal. According to the reviews left by our customers, we have been doing a great job of meeting all of our customers’ requirements, which is the primary objective of our business. We will offer you the services of tour experts who are fluent in English and quite pleasant. We offer all different kinds of packages that are tailored to the needs of our customers and give them all-in-one facilities for transportation and lodging.

Highlights of the Makalu Base Camp Trek

The eastern Kangshung face of Everest is a sight to behold.
explore the landscapes of eastern Nepal, as far away as Kangchenjunga Pass, ranging from verdant farming terraces to snow-capped mountains and waterfalls.
Discover some of Nepal’s most precious treasures, like the endangered Red Panda, snow leopards, and black bears.
Rhododendron forests, granite cliffs, hanging glaciers, and waterfalls are just some of the Himalayan scenery features that can be observed during this tour.
You will walk through river gorges, vertical cliffs, stunning waterfalls, high-altitude lakes, and communities of Sherpas and Rai.
Travel to the lower reaches of the Makalu Barun National Park as well as the snow-capped mountains in the higher elevations.
Finish the breathtaking trek to Makalu Base Camp, where only a few people have dared to go.
An incredible day of hiking awaits you as you traverse not only the Shipton La Pass but also three other high passes.
As you go from 700 to nearly 5,000 meters in altitude, you’ll experience a range of various climate zones and their associated landscapes.
During this journey, staying at tea houses allows travelers to see life in distant villages while also contributing directly to the income of those communities.

Important Note

Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu

You will be received by a representative of Green Horizon at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transferred to your hotel. You can check into your hotel, and take care of any last-minute shopping. The company representative will give a pre-trekking briefing, and you can meet with your guide to go over the itinerary and gear list. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 2. Kathmandu City Excursion

You will visit several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Later in the afternoon, you will be taken for a welcome dinner, have a meeting with your guide and prepare for the trek.

Day 3. Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Drive to Chichila

The next day, you will take a 35 minute flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. After a 4 hour drive from Tumlingtar you will reach Chichila village and you will spend the night there. Tumlingtar is a small village in the eastern region of Nepal and the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek with a good opportunity to acclimatize and explore the culture.

Day 4. Trek to Num

After breakfast, you will start your trek from chinchilla to num. The trail is mostly through the dense jungles, and it is a gradual climb. You’ll cross several small streams and pass through small villages and spend the night in Num village.

Day 5. Trek to Seduwa

After around 6 hours of hike you will reach Seduwa which is at an altitude of 1,500 m above the sea level.The trail continues to climb gradually, passing through more small villages, rhododendron forests and crossing several small streams. The trail is well-defined and easy to follow.

Day 6. Trek to Tashi gaon

The next day, you will trek to the Tashi gaon which is at an altitude of 2,195 m. The trail becomes steeper and the path becomes narrower as you head to Tashi Gaon. You’ll pass through a dense rhododendron forest and cross several small streams. Tashi Gaon is a small Sherpa village with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.

Day 7. Trek to Khongma Danda

The trail climbs steeply and becomes rocky as you head to Khongma. The trail passes through a dense rhododendron forest and crosses several small streams. The view from Khongma is breathtaking, with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

Day 8. Trek to Dobato

The trail continues to climb steeply, passing through a dense rhododendron forest and crossing several small streams. You will trek around 6 hours to reach Dobato. You’ll have a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains as you head to Dobato.

Day 9. Rest day

It is good to take a rest day at Dobato to acclimatize your body to higher altitude. You can also explore the area and enjoy the view of the surrounding mountains.

Day 10. Trek to Yangle Kharka

The next day you will be trekking to Yangle Kharka. The trail becomes steeper and the path becomes narrower as you head to Yangle Kharka. You’ll pass through a dense rhododendron forest and cross several small streams. The view from Yangle Kharka is breathtaking, with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

Day 11. Trek to Makalu Base Camp

The day to reach the base camp is here, you will trek for around 6-7 hours from Yangle Kharka to reach the Makalu Base Camp. The trail becomes steeper and the path becomes narrower as you head to Makalu Base Camp. You’ll pass through a dense rhododendron forest and cross several small streams. The view from Makalu Base Camp is breathtaking, with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Makalu peak.

Day 12. Explore Makalu Base Camp

This day is for you to explore the breathtaking views of the Makalu Base Camp and surroundings. On this day, you can continue to explore the base camp and the nearby glaciers, or take another day hike to nearby vantage points for even more breathtaking views. You can also visit the nearby Makalu High Camp, which offers even more stunning views of the surrounding peaks. It’s important to take some time to rest and recover from the strenuous trek, as well as to enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness and the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Day 14. Trek to Langmale Kharka

You will retrace your steps back to Langmale Kharka, passing through the same dense rhododendron forests and small streams that you passed on the way up. It’s important to keep in mind that descending can be just as challenging as climbing, so it’s important to take your time and be careful.

Day 15. Trek to Yangle Kharka

You’ll continue your descent, retracing your steps back to Yangle Kharka. you’ll be passing through areas that are now familiar to you, which can be both comforting and nostalgic. The trail will be a bit easier now that you have already completed the steepest part of the trek, but it’s still important to take your time and be careful.

Day 16. Trek to Dobato

The trail will be the same as the one you took on the way up, passing through the same dense rhododendron forests and small streams.

You will be retracing your steps back to the places you passed, and it’s important to take your time and be careful, descending can be just as challenging as climbing. It’s also important to keep in mind that the weather conditions may be different from when you first passed through, so you’ll need to be prepared for any changes in weather.

Day 17. Trek to Khongma Danda

This can be a great opportunity to take another look at the beautiful surroundings and appreciate them in a different way. On this day, you will also be getting closer to the end of the trek, and it’s a good idea to take stock of your experiences, reflect on your journey and take some photos as a memory.

Day 18. Trek to Tashi gaon

It’s also a good idea to take breaks throughout the day to rest and hydrate, and to keep an eye out for any signs of altitude sickness. By the time you reach Tashi Gaon you will have completed the majority of the descent and will be on the last leg of the trek back to Chichira. It’s also a good opportunity to rest and recover before embarking on the last few days of the trek.

Day 19. Trek to Seduwa and Trek to Num

The trail will be a bit easier now that you have already completed the steepest part of the trek, but it’s still important to take your time and be careful. You’ll also be getting closer to the end of the trek, and it’s a good opportunity to take stock of your experiences and reflect on the journey that you’ve completed.

Day 20. Trek to Chichila

You’ll continue your descent, retracing your steps back to Chichira, where you’ll spend the night in Chichila village before returning to Tumlingtar.

Day 21. Trek from Chichila to Tumlingtar to Kathmandu

You’ll take a private vehicle back to Tumlingtar and fly back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your Makalu Base Camp trek.

Day 22. Departure Day

So, Your journey in Nepal comes to an end today. We will transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Please note that you have to be at the airport before 3 hours of flight time.

Includes/Excludes

What's included?

Airport pick up and drop in a private vehicle
Kathmandu Sightseeing
2 nights accommodation at a 3 star hotel in Kathmandu
Breakfast and Welcome Dinner in Kathmandu
Best accommodation options during the trek
Government licensed trekking guide and a porter
All the permits and entry fees required for the trek
Trip completion certificate

What's not included?

Foods during the trek
Nepal Visa and Travel Insurance
Tips for drivers, guides and porters
Any soft or alcoholic beverages consumed during the trek
Personal trekking gears
Other expenses that are not mentioned in the inclusive

Trip Information - Good to Know

Additional Information

Flight and Transportation

You will start the Makalu Base Camp Trek; you will need to fly to Kathmandu and take a domestic flight to Tumlingtar, or take a bus from Kathmandu to Dharan and then take a jeep to Tumlingtar. During the trek, transportation will mainly be on foot, but there may be some sections where you can take a jeep or a local bus. It is recommended to use a local travel agency for a smooth and safe trip, as they can handle all the necessary logistics, permits, and guide arrangements. Note that the Makalu Base Camp Trek is in a remote area, so the infrastructure and transportation options may be limited.

High Altitude Sickness

If you are planning to trek to Makalu Base Camp, it is important to be aware of the risk of high altitude sickness and take steps to prevent it. This includes acclimatizing gradually, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding alcohol and sleeping aids. It is also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of high altitude sickness and to descend to a lower altitude if you experience them. It is always a good idea to have a guide with you and listen to their advice.

Trekking-grade

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered a strenuous or challenging trekking grade. It requires a moderate level of fitness and some previous trekking experience. The trek is physically demanding and requires trekkers to walk for several hours a day on rough terrain, crossing high passes and steep inclines. The highest point of the trek is at an altitude of 5,000 meters, which can pose some risk for altitude sickness. It is important for trekkers to be prepared for this level of difficulty and to have a good level of fitness before attempting the trek.

Weather and climate

The weather and climate on the Makalu Base Camp Trek can vary depending on the time of year. The trek can be completed from September to November or from March to May. During these months, the weather is generally stable and provides clear views of the mountain. However, it can be cold at night, especially at the higher altitudes of the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Electricity, telephone, and internet

Electricity, telephone, and internet access can be very limited on the Makalu Base Camp Trek due to the high altitude. Some tea houses and lodges along the trail may have electricity to charge your phones and cameras, but it is not guaranteed. There may be limited telephone and internet access in some villages along the trail, but it can be unreliable.

Permit

Essentially, there are two different permits that are required for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. For trekking to the Makalu region, the Nepali government has issued permits for Makalu Barun National Park and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

A permit to enter the Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area costs US $30 per person.
A Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card costs US $20 per person.

Food

The food options will be limited and will mainly consist of staples such as rice, lentils, potatoes and pasta during Makalu Base Camp trek. Fresh fruits and vegetables may be scarce. Meat may also be limited. Food will be cooked with limited resources in the teahouses of the guesthouses.

Drinking Water

During Makalu Base Camp trek, water availability may be limited and trekkers should plan to bring enough water for their journey or be prepared to purify water from natural sources. It’s important to stay hydrated and drink enough water to avoid altitude sickness.

Group Leader and Crew

Makalu Base Camp trek is a guided trek and it is highly recommended to have a local guide with you who is familiar with the trail, the culture and the language. The guide can also help you to navigate through the trail and also will be responsible for your safety. You will also have a team of porters and sherpas to carry your luggage and help you on the trail.

Trekking Equipment

Good quality hiking boots, warm clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, gloves, and a hat or balaclava. A sleeping bag and a good quality down jacket is also recommended. Other trekking essentials such as a headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first aid kit.

You may also need trekking poles, depending on your preference.

Trekking Days

The Makalu Base Camp trek usually takes around 12-15 days, depending on the itinerary and the trail you take. It includes a day of sightseeing in Kathmandu and a few days of acclimatization before starting the trek.

Luggage

Trekkers are allowed to carry a maximum of 15-20 kg of luggage during the trek. Luggage will be carried by porters and sherpas, but you should carry a small daypack with essentials for the day.

Customized Itinerary

You can customize your itinerary based on your schedule, interests and physical fitness.

You can also add or remove days to the itinerary as per your preference.

Trip extensions

You can extend your trip by visiting other trekking destinations in Nepal such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang or Manaslu Circuit, etc. You can also add cultural tours, rafting or jungle safari to your itinerary.