Popular Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek

Duration

20 Days

Max Alt

4870m

Difficulty

Hard

Trek Overview

Makalu Base Camp Trek lies in the area of Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area in the heart of Eastern Nepal. The main point of this trek is Makalu Barun National Park in Solukhumbhu and Sankhuwasabha district. Makalu Trek is formerly a restricted trekking area. Its extent in five major ecological zones where the lush tropical Arun Valley, dense forests of rhododendron and fir and alpine meadows can be found that lead to the mighty Barun glacier. Mount Makalu (8463m) the world’s fifth highest peak; Chamlang Himal and Barun Valley are the major jewels of this Trekking region. Makalu Trekking Region and Everest Trekking Region are close to each other. Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging and an outstanding. The trek up to Makalu Base Camp is one of the most remote and unfrequented treks in Nepal.

Nestled in the lower reaches of Barun and Arun valleys are communities of Rai, Sherpa, and Shingsawa (Bhotia) farmers. Though economically poor and isolated, they retain a rich cultural heritage. They hold the key to the preservation of the unique biological and cultural treasures of the Makalu Barun Area. The Makalu-Barun area is little known to most tourists due to its relative inaccessibility. But those few hundred trekkers and mountaineers who visit each year come away with an unforgettable experience.

Trekking at a Glance

Duration

20 Days

Trip Grade

Hard

Max Altitude

4870m

Accommodation

Hotel / Tea House

Starts/Ends

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Activities

Trekking

Best Time

Mar - May & Sep - Nov

Itinerary

20 Days Journey

Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu, where you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. This is your first day to rest and acclimatize before starting your trekking adventure. You will also have a briefing on the trek and preparations for the days ahead.

Hotel

Dinner

1,400m

Day 2:

Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, Jeep Drive to Num

In the morning, you’ll fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. From there, you will drive by jeep to Num (1,505m), where the trek will begin. Enjoy the scenic drive through the foothills of the Himalayas.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

1,505m

Day 3:

Trek from Num to Seduwa

Trek from Num to Seduwa, a beautiful village nestled along the valley. Enjoy the lush greenery and terraced fields that are characteristic of this area.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

1,530m

5-6 hours

Day 4:

Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaon

Trek to Tashi Gaon, passing through dense forests and small villages along the way. The route offers views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

2,065m

5-6 hours

Day 5:

Acclimatization Day at Tashi Gaon

Acclimatize at Tashi Gaon to adjust to the altitude. You may explore the surrounding areas or rest to prepare for the coming days.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

2,065m

Day 6:

Trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma

The trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma is a challenging ascent through forests and alpine terrain. Reach Khongma for your overnight stop with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3,582m

5-6 hours

Day 7:

Trek from Khongma to Yangri Kharka

Continue trekking to Yangri Kharka, a scenic location offering beautiful views of the Himalayas.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3,610m

5-6 hours

Day 8:

Trek from Yangri Kharka to Yak Kharka

Ascend towards Yak Kharka, passing through meadows and yak herding areas. Enjoy views of surrounding peaks and the unique landscape.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4,110m

5-6 hours

Day 9:

Trek from Yak Kharka to Shershong

Trek towards Shershong, the last village before reaching the base camp. As you approach the higher altitudes, the landscape becomes more rugged and dramatic.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4,630m

5-6 hours

Day 10:

Trek from Shershong to Makalu Base Camp

Today’s trek takes you to Makalu Base Camp, where you’ll get a breathtaking view of Mount Makalu and the surrounding mountains.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4,870m

5-6 hours

Day 11:

Acclimatization Day at Makalu Base Camp

Spend the day acclimatizing at Makalu Base Camp. You can explore the surroundings and enjoy the magnificent views of the high Himalayas.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4,870m

Day 12:

Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Shershong

Begin your return journey as you trek back to Shershong, retracing the path taken earlier.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4,630m

5-6 hours

Day 13:

Trek from Shershong to Jhak Kharka

Trek from Shershong to Jhak Kharka, enjoying the scenery along the way. The descent through alpine forests brings you to a lower altitude.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4,120m

5-6 hours

Day 14:

Trek from Jhak Kharka to Mumbuk

Continue your descent towards Mumbuk, passing through beautiful forested areas and enjoying views of the surrounding peaks.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3,550m

5-6 hours

Day 15:

Trek from Mumbuk to Khongma

Trek back up to Khongma, passing through several small settlements and gaining spectacular views of the valleys and peaks.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3,562m

5-6 hours

Day 16:

Trek from Khongma to Tashi Gaon

Continue your trek back down, passing through alpine meadows and forested areas, to Tashi Gaon.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

2,065m

5-6 hours

Day 17:

Trek from Tashi Gaon to Num

Trek from Tashi Gaon back down to Num. The trek is mostly downhill, making for a quicker and easier day.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

1,505m

5-6 hours

Day 18:

Drive from Num to Tumlingtar

Drive from Num to Tumlingtar. Relax and enjoy the scenic drive as you descend to a lower altitude.

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinne

400m

Day 19:

Fly from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu

Fly back to Kathmandu, where you can rest and relax after the trek. Enjoy the comforts of your hotel and perhaps take a walk around the city.

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

1,450m

Day 20:

Departure

Your trip ends today. You will be transferred to the airport for your departure.

Breakfast

Trek Gallery

What's Included & Excluded

What's Included

Accommodation: Three standard hotels, twin-sharing basis
Local guide & support staff
Meals on the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea, Coffee (A day)
Small adventure equipment
Porter service (2 trekkers per 1 porter)
First aid box
All government and local taxes
Makalu Barun National Park entry permits
Pickup and drop from airport to hotel (private vehicle)
Farewell group dinner
Guide and porter insurance fee
Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu flight ticket

What's Not Included

International airfare
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar, lunch, Nepalese visa fee)
Travel and rescue insurance
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Tips for guide, porter, and driver
Bills, battery recharge extra

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The best time to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek is during the pre-monsoon season (March to May) and post-monsoon season (September to November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and optimal trekking conditions.

What fitness level is required for this trek?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek. A good level of fitness is recommended, especially for high-altitude trekking. You should be comfortable with long days of walking, including steep ascents and descents. Regular cardio exercises and trekking practice will help prepare you for this trek.

Do I need a visa for Nepal?

Yes, most travelers require a visa for Nepal. You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or apply for one online before your trip. The visa fee is typically around $25 for a 15-day visa, with options for longer durations available.

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Makalu Base Camp Trek