Makalu Base Camp Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek – 19 Days

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine wilderness areas, offering breathtaking views of the world’s fifth-highest peak, Mount Makalu (8,485m). Nestled within Makalu Barun National Park, this trek takes adventurers through an untouched landscape of deep valleys, dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rugged glaciers. Unlike the more commercialized trekking routes of Nepal, the Makalu region remains relatively isolated, providing an unparalleled sense of tranquility and raw natural beauty.

This trek begins with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar, followed by a drive to the starting point at Num. The trail gradually ascends through terraced farmlands and traditional Sherpa and Rai villages, where trekkers can experience the unique culture and hospitality of the region. As the journey progresses, the landscape transforms from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude terrains, crossing dramatic suspension bridges, rocky ridges, and glacial rivers. The gradual acclimatization allows trekkers to adapt to the increasing elevation while soaking in the diverse biodiversity of Makalu Barun Conservation Area.

The highlight of the trek is reaching Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), a surreal expanse surrounded by towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, and Chamlang. The base camp offers a spectacular vantage point of Makalu’s south face, a sight rarely seen by most travelers. Here, trekkers are rewarded with an awe-inspiring panorama of icefalls, glaciers, and snow-covered ridges, making the challenging journey incredibly worthwhile. The isolation of this region adds to its allure, as only a handful of trekkers venture into this remote wilderness each year.

Beyond its stunning scenery, the region is a haven for wildlife, home to over 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 species of birds, and 75 species of mammals, including the elusive snow leopard, red panda, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. The mix of diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and towering Himalayan peaks makes the Makalu Base Camp Trek a dream for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers looking for an authentic and remote trekking experience in Nepal.

Descending from the base camp, the return journey follows the same trail, allowing trekkers to revisit the charming villages and lush forests with a newfound appreciation for the landscape. The trek demands a high level of physical endurance and a spirit of adventure, but it offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking solitude and raw Himalayan grandeur. With its blend of cultural encounters, unspoiled nature, and breathtaking mountain views, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a dream for seasoned trekkers looking to explore one of Nepal’s most untouched regions.

Trek Highlights

• Final Destination: Makalu Base Camp (5,100m)
• Duration: 19 Days
• Trekking Region: Makalu Barun National Park
• Max Altitude: 5,100m
• Average Activity: 6-7 hours per day
• Start/End Point: Kathmandu/Kathmandu
• Best Season: Spring (Mar-May) & Autumn (Sep-Nov)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Accommodation: Tea Houses & Camping
• Meal Plan: All meals included (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
• Airport Pick & Drop-off: International/Domestic flights & private vehicle transportation
• Other Transportation: Private/Sharing Basis
• Culinary Experience: Enjoy a special welcome dinner upon arrival and a celebratory farewell dinner to mark the completion of your adventure.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (Flight) & Drive to Chichila

• Altitude: 1,980m / 6,496ft
• Duration: 4 hours (Drive)
• Highlights: Scenic flight, Arun Valley, remote villages.

A short and scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar offers stunning views of the Himalayas. From Tumlingtar, we take a drive through lush green hills and terraced farmland, passing small settlements before reaching Chichila, a small Gurung village with beautiful surroundings and distant mountain views. We settle here for the night in a teahouse.

Day 2: Trek from Chichila to Num

● Altitude: 1,040m / 3,412ft

● Duration: 6 hours

● Highlights: Dense rhododendron forests, remote trails, ridge walk.

The trek begins with a gradual ascent through dense forests filled with rhododendron and oak trees. As we progress, we pass through small hamlets before a ridge walk offers incredible views of the Arun River Valley. A steep descent leads us to the village of Num, where we stay overnight.

Day 3: Trek from Num to Seduwa

● Altitude: 1,500m / 4,921ft

● Duration: 6 hours

● Highlights: Crossing the Arun River, terraced farmlands, entry to Makalu Barun National Park.

We descend steeply through forests and farmland to cross a suspension bridge over the Arun River. A challenging uphill climb follows as we make our way through cardamom plantations and dense jungle. After registering at the national park checkpoint, we reach Seduwa, a peaceful village with terraced fields and mountain views.

Day 4: Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaon

● Altitude: 2,100m / 6,889ft

● Duration: 5 hours

● Highlights: Traditional villages, terraced fields, gradual ascent.

The trail today is relatively easier, passing through small settlements and terraced fields. We traverse dense forests and enjoy panoramic views of Makalu before reaching Tashi Gaon, the last permanent settlement on the trail. The village offers insight into the Sherpa lifestyle, and we rest in a teahouse.

Day 5: Trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma Danda

● Altitude: 3,500m / 11,482ft

● Duration: 7 hours

● Highlights: Steep ascent, cloud forests, first views of snow-capped peaks.

This is a challenging day as we ascend steeply through dense forests filled with rhododendrons and moss-covered trees. The landscape transitions into alpine terrain as we climb past several stone steps. The rewarding views of peaks like Chamlang and Makalu welcome us at Khongma Danda, a high ridge with a few basic lodges.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Khongma Danda

● Altitude: 3,500m / 11,482ft

● Duration: 2 hours (Hike)

● Highlights: Rest day, short hikes, panoramic views.

A well-deserved acclimatization day to adjust to the increasing altitude. We take short hikes to nearby ridges to explore the surroundings and enjoy breathtaking views of the Makalu and Barun ranges. Resting here prepares us for the higher altitudes ahead.

Day 7: Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobato

● Altitude: 3,500m / 11,482ft

● Duration: 6 hours

● Highlights: Crossing Shipton La Pass, Keke La Pass, stunning mountain views.

A challenging but rewarding day as we cross three passes—Shipton La, Keke La, and Kauma La. The trail features steep ascents and descents with incredible views of snow-covered peaks. After descending through rocky terrain, we arrive at Dobato, where we stay overnight.

Day 8: Trek from Dobato to Yangla Kharka

● Altitude: 3,557m / 11,669ft

● Duration: 7 hours

● Highlights: Alpine meadows, Barun River, yak pastures.

A beautiful descent through dense rhododendron forests leads us to a valley where we follow the Barun River. The trail gradually ascends past grazing lands and yak pastures before arriving at Yangla Kharka, a scenic resting point in the Barun Valley.

Day 9: Trek from Yangla Kharka to Langmale Kharka

● Altitude: 4,410m / 14,468ft

● Duration: 6 hours

● Highlights: Expansive meadows, high-altitude landscape, closer views of Makalu.

The trek continues with a gradual ascent through open valleys and pastures. The terrain becomes increasingly rugged, with dramatic cliffs and glaciers in view. We reach Langmale Kharka, a temporary settlement with basic teahouses, where we rest for the night.

Day 10: Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp

● Altitude: 4,870m / 15,977ft

● Duration: 6 hours

● Highlights: Majestic Makalu, glacier views, high-altitude trekking.

A thrilling day as we ascend through rocky moraine trails toward Makalu Base Camp. The landscape is barren yet stunning, with views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu dominating the horizon. Upon arrival, we explore the surroundings and settle in for the night.

Day 11: Explore Makalu Base Camp

● Altitude: 4,870m / 15,977ft

● Duration: 3 hours (Exploration)

● Highlights: Makalu glacier, panoramic views, rest and photography.

A day dedicated to exploring the base camp, where we witness the massive south face of Makalu. Short hikes offer breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks, making for an unforgettable experience before beginning our descent.

Day 12: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangla Kharka

● Altitude: 3,557m / 11,669ft

● Duration: 7 hours

● Highlights: Retracing trails, glacier views, descent into alpine meadows.

We begin our descent, following the same trail back to Yangla Kharka. The landscape gradually transforms from barren glacier terrain to lush pastures. The trek provides another chance to appreciate the beauty of Barun Valley before resting in Yangla Kharka.

Day 13: Trek from Yangla Kharka to Dobato

● Altitude: 3,500m / 11,482ft

● Duration: 7 hours

● Highlights: Forested paths, river crossings, peaceful descent.

The trek continues downhill through forests and along the Barun River. The familiar scenery of rhododendron forests and yak pastures welcomes us back to Dobato for an overnight stay.

Day 14: Trek from Dobato to Khongma Danda

● Altitude: 3,500m / 11,482ft

● Duration: 6 hours

● Highlights: Crossing high passes, panoramic views.

We retrace our steps across the high mountain passes, ascending and descending rugged trails before reaching Khongma Danda. The trek offers final glimpses of the towering Himalayan peaks.

Day 15: Trek from Khongma Danda to Tashi Gaon

● Altitude: 2,100m / 6,889ft

● Duration: 5 hours

● Highlights: Long descent, forested trails, return to civilization.

A steady descent through rhododendron and oak forests leads us back to Tashi Gaon. The change in scenery from barren landscapes to lush greenery is refreshing. We pass by familiar villages and stay overnight in Tashi Gaon.

Day 16: Trek from Tashi Gaon to Seduwa

● Altitude: 1,500m / 4,921ft

● Duration: 5 hours

● Highlights: Scenic forests, village life, terraced fields.

The trail gradually descends through terraced farmlands and small settlements. We cross streams and forests before reaching Seduwa, a charming village offering a peaceful atmosphere.

Day 17: Trek from Seduwa to Num

● Altitude: 1,040m / 3,412ft

● Duration: 5 hours

● Highlights: Steep descent, river crossing, last trekking day.

A steep descent leads to the Arun River, followed by a final climb up to Num. The trek officially ends here, and we rest before driving the next day.

Day 18: Num to Chichila to Tumlingtar (Drive)

● Altitude: 1,980m / 6,496ft

● Duration: 7 hours

● Highlights: Scenic drive, mountain views, relaxation.

A bumpy but scenic drive retraces our route through Chichila, leading back to Tumlingtar. We spend the night reminiscing about the trek.

Day 19: Tumlingtar to Kathmandu (Flight)

● Altitude: 1,300m / 4,265ft

● Duration: 50 minutes

● Highlights: Aerial views, return to city life.

A short flight from Tumlingtar brings us back to Kathmandu, marking the end of this incredible adventure.

Itinerary Extension Option: Explore Kathmandu

If you wish to explore more of Kathmandu, the itinerary can be extended to include additional days in the capital. In Kathmandu, visit iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site; Boudhanath Stupa, one of the world’s largest Buddhist stupas; and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic valley views and a blend of Hindu-Buddhist heritage.

Explore the historic Durbar Squares—Kathmandu Durbar Square, home to Hanuman Dhoka Palace and the Living Goddess Kumari; Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its Newari architecture and Krishna Mandir; and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a medieval gem featuring Nyatapola Temple and vibrant pottery squares. Conclude your day in Thamel, a lively hub for shopping, nightlife, and authentic Nepali cuisine.

Let us know your preferences, and we’ll tailor your itinerary to suit your interests for an unforgettable Nepal experience.

Trekking Gear Requirement: What to Carry?

● Sleeping bag (rated for expected temperatures)

● Moisture-wicking base layers (thermal tops & bottoms)

● Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down jacket)

● Waterproof & windproof outer shell (jacket & pants)

● Trekking pants (quick-dry & breathable)

● Lightweight full-sleeve shirts (UV protection)

● Warm gloves (inner & outer layers)

● Woolen hat/beanie & sun cap

● Gaiters (for snow or muddy trails)

● Sturdy trekking boots (waterproof & well-broken-in)

● Comfortable camp shoes/sandals

● Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & lip balm

● Sunglasses

● Hand sanitizer & wet wipes

● Headlamp with extra batteries (not mandatory)

Inclusions:

✅ All necessary permits (Makalu Barun National Conservation Area Permit, Local Government Permit)

✅ Tea house/Hotel accommodation (18 nights)

✅ All ground transportation (bus/4WD jeep)

✅ Rental of sleeping bag

✅ Emergency helicopter arrangement (covered by your your travel insurance)

✅ First aid for your health and safety

Exclusions:

❌ Trekking equipment rental expenses

❌ Beverages & personal expenses

❌Porter expenses – $22 per day (including salary, food, accommodation, insurance)

❌ Tips for guide & porter

Note: If you return early from the trek due to illness or any other reason, the payments made for flights, hotels, mountain accommodation, and meals are non-refundable. Additionally, any extra expenses incurred for accommodation, meals, or other services in Kathmandu will be your responsibility.