Highlights
The Complete Guide to Makalu Base Camp Trek
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a journey to explore the beauty of Nepal's Makalu Barun National Park, a region filled with diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to rare and endangered species like the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, red panda, and musk deer. The trek is also famous for the amazing view of the world's highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Chamlang, which will leave you awestruck.The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in Nepal and requires a high level of physical fitness. The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a scenic trail that leads through the beautiful Arun River basin. The route includes two challenging high passes, Keke La pass (4230m) and Tutu La pass (4200m), that offer an excellent opportunity to test your mountaineering skills.
The trail also provides an excellent chance to experience the unique culture of the region's local people, their traditional lifestyles, and customs. The trek takes you through picturesque villages, past beautiful monasteries, and across stunning landscapes. Walking along the Barun River valley, you'll get to see the snow-fed streams, glacial lakes, and waterfalls that make this region a heaven for nature lovers.The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a journey of a lifetime that offers you an unforgettable adventure to explore the natural wonders of Nepal. It is a perfect choice for those who seek an exciting and challenging trekking experience amidst the world's highest mountain ranges.
Itinerary
DAY 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m) & Transfer to the Hotel
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal! On your arrival, you will be greeted by our team at the airport and transferred to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the bustling streets of Thamel or relaxing at your hotel.
DAY 2 - Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num (1,560m)
After breakfast, we will take a scenic flight to Tumlingtar, where we'll meet our trekking crew. From there, we'll drive to Num, the starting point of our trek. The drive itself is an adventure, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape and lush green hills.
DAY 3 - Trek from Num to Seduwa (1,510m)
Today, we'll begin our trek by crossing the Arun River and ascending through dense forests. As we reach Seduwa, we'll witness the first glimpse of the magnificent Himalayan ranges
DAY 4 - Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaun (2,070m)
As we continue our trek, the trail becomes steeper, but the views get more rewarding. We'll cross several small villages and dense forests before reaching Tashi Gaun, a picturesque village surrounded by towering mountains.
DAY 5 - Acclimatization at Tashi Gaun (rest day)
Today is a rest day, allowing us to acclimatize to the high altitude and prepare for the next few days of trekking. You can spend the day exploring the village or taking short hikes to nearby viewpoints.
DAY 6 - Trek from Tashi Gaun to Khongma (3,760m)
The trail gradually ascends through rhododendron forests and meadows. As we reach Khongma, we'll be rewarded with stunning views of Makalu and other surrounding peaks.
DAY 7 - Trek from Khongma to Mumbuk (3,520m)
Today's trail is challenging, as we'll be crossing several high passes and traversing steep ridges. However, the views are breathtaking, and the sense of achievement is unmatched.
DAY 8 - Trek from Mumbuk to Nehe Kharka (4,320m)
As we ascend higher, the landscape changes drastically, and we'll notice the alpine vegetation becoming sparse. We'll cross the Barun Glacier and reach Nehe Kharka, a beautiful meadow surrounded by towering peaks..
DAY 9 - Trek from Nehe Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m)
Today's trail takes us to the highlight of our trek, the Makalu Base Camp. We'll walk on the rocky terrain and moraines of the glacier, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
DAY 10 - Trek from MaKalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka
After spending some time at the base camp, we'll retrace our steps and begin our descent. We'll reach Yangle Kharka, a beautiful meadow surrounded by the mighty Himalayan peaks.
DAY 11 - TTrek from Yangle Kharka to Khongma
Today, we'll cross several high passes and steep ridges before reaching Khongma. The trail is challenging but incredibly rewarding, offering stunning views of the mountains.
DAY 12 - Trek from Khongma to Seduwa
As we descend, the trail becomes easier, and we'll pass through several small villages and dense forests. We'll reach Seduwa, where we'll spend the night.
DAY 13 - Trek from Seduwa to Num and drive to Khadbari or Tumlingtar
Today, we'll complete our trek as we descend to Num and drive to Khandbari or Tumlingtar. We'll spend the night at a guesthouse or hotel.
DAY 14 - Drive from Khandbari to Tumlingtar Fly to Kathmandu & Transfer to the Hotel
We'll drive from Khandbari to Tumlingtar and take a flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival, we'll transfer you to your hotel, where you can rest or explore the city.
DAY 15 - Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley
Today, we'll explore the cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu valley. We'll visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath, and experience the rich cultural diversity of Nepal.
DAY 16 - Transfer to International Airport for final departure
Our team will transfer you to the airport for your final departure, marking the end of an incredible journey to the beautiful Himalayas of Nepal.
TRIP ENDS HERE!
TREK GALLERY
Map
What's Included
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : sharing a twin bedroom at the hotel (3 Star category) in Kathmandu on a bed & breakfast basis
AIRPORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office’s Staff.
Permits : All necessary paper works: Trekking Permit including MCAP and special permit, TIMS Card & conservation entry fee
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
MAP: Trekking map of the trek
MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : Land Transportation Kathmandu
MEMBER LUGGAGE: Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters.
FOODS & LODGING : 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation sharing basis in tea house/camp during the trek.
DRINKS : 2 liters of boiled water to carry on thermos per day per member.
Guide : Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sight-seeing in Kathmandu valley.
PORTER : Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive Medical kit.
Meals on treks only: Breakfast, Lunch , Dinner.
What's Not Included
NEPAL VISA FEES : Nepali Visa fee is US$ 60 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 120).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE : Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
RESCUE EVACUATION : Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization costs.)
PERSONAL EXPENSES: Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Internet facility during the trek is not included.
EXTRA PORTER : $35 USD for an extra porter per day (If an extra porter is demanded).
TIPS : Tips for Guide, porters, and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Mandatory Documents
Identification document
Booking Receipt, if Booked Online (PDF will work)
Cancellation Policy
More than 30-days prior to departure - 50% refund.
In Between 15-30-days prior to departure - 25% refund.
Less than 15-days prior to departure - No Refund.
Frequently Asked question
Absolutely! Whether you're a solo trekker or with a group, you can easily book your trek through our website or by contacting our Kathmandu office directly. We can even pair solo trekkers with groups, if desired.
On our treks, you'll enjoy a blend of traditional Nepali meals like 'dal bhat' (lentil soup with rice) and other international cuisines. We ensure our food is nutritious and energy-packed for the trekking journey. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
Yes, we offer secure luggage storage at our office in Kathmandu. You can leave behind non-essential items and pick them up once you return from your trek.
Yes, depending on your trek's region, you'll need permits like the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems) card and regional conservation or national park permits. Our team takes care of all the necessary paperwork and permits for you.
Absolutely! We offer both fixed-departure and tailor-made treks. If you have specific preferences, routes, or places you'd like to visit, just let our team know, and we'll help design a trek that meets your desires.
Altitude sickness is a concern in the Himalayan treks. Our itineraries are designed to allow gradual acclimatization. It's essential to communicate any discomfort to our guides, who are trained to assist in such situations.
Yes, Kathmandu offers several rental shops where you can rent or buy trekking gear. If you're missing something, it's likely you'll find it here. However, for personal comfort, we recommend bringing specialized items like hiking boots from home.
Accommodation varies depending on the trek's route. In popular trails like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, you'll find well-maintained teahouses offering basic amenities. However, in remote areas, the facilities might be more basic. Camping may also be part of certain trekking routes.
Our guides carry communication devices and have contacts with local agencies to ensure swift action during emergencies. In extreme cases, helicopter evacuations can be arranged, given that the trekker has suitable insurance coverage.