Makalu Base Camp Trek
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Trip Duration 20 Days
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Max, Altitude 5200
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Type Trekking
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Best Season Sept - May
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Meals Included
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Accommodation Guest House
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Activity Trekking
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Difficulty Strenuous
- Capture Mount Everest from a unique angle, it’s eastern Kangshung face
- See the views of eastern Nepal, as far away as Kangchenjunga
- Pass from green terraced farmland to glaciers and waterfalls
- Experience the rural life of Nepal’s distinct Rai and Sherpa culture
- Spot some of the rarest wildlife in Nepal, including the Red Panda
Still unknown as one of the most popular treks in the region, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of East Nepal’s fascinating treks.
It takes travellers to the foot of the world’s fifth-highest peak, Mount Makalu (8485m). This wild trek is necessary for those searching for solitude and wildness in their purest sense.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Overview
The itinerary follows the Arun Valley and takes the traveller through Makalu Barun National Park. As the trek progresses, trekkers encounter rich forests, villages, and terraced farmlands. As the trail climbs, the landscape changes to alpine meadows, glaciers, and rocky lands.
Notable features include the stunning sights of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse and the rugged Shipton La Pass crossing at that point. The base camp trekkers also have a breathtaking encounter with Mount Makalu and other surrounding peaks.
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal for this hike. The weather is constant, and the scenery is crisp. Limited accommodation facilities, either basic teahouses or camping, provide a truly rustic yet original experience.
This trek is physically challenging, so highly fit; experienced trekkers should undertake it. It is less crowded than famous trails, and trekkers can enjoy themselves in nature and local culture.
For those looking for a truly unique adventure off the mainstream route, the Makalu Base Camp Trek offers a memorable trek surrounded by natural beauty and stunning mountain views.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is known for its difficulty; the trek is remote, and the trail is difficult. The hike is rugged with steep climbs, downhill and tight stretches of road, thus requiring significant physical effort. Other contributing factors include high-altitude trekking and the consequent risk of altitude sickness.
Weather conditions can be variable, especially at higher elevations, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Limited infrastructure along the trail, such as basic teahouses and long distances between stops, adds to the difficulty. Trekkers must be self-sufficient and camping prepared in parts.
Crossing high passes, such as Shipton La, also demands high stamina and physical fitness. The Makalu Base Camp Trek’s difficulty level assumes a traveller’s background in high-altitude experience and an appropriate fitness level.
Completing this arduous trekking requires proper preparation, acclimatization, and physical fitness.
Altitude Sickness During Makalu Trek
Altitude sickness is a usual problem of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. The climb is above 5,000 meters, with thin air and oxygen depleted. This may result in headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
If the altitude gains rapidly, there may be an increased risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers must acclimatize adequately to avoid serious issues. On the trek, rest days assist the body in acclimating to altitude.
Altitude sickness may affect people of any fitness level or trekking experience. To keep the Makalu Base Camp Trek safe and pleasurable, it is essential to be mindful of the dangers and prepare sufficiently. A planned and well-acclimatized trek is the key to its success.
Food in Makalu Base Camp Trek
The food on the Makalu Base Camp Trek is somewhat standardised and straightforward. Trekkers can eat meals at teahouses, which offer dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, pasta, and soup. Breakfast options include pancakes, porridge, and eggs.
Snack food (biscuits, chocolates, and so on) is plentiful but expensive as you ascend altitude. Since variety is constrained, having energy bars or dry foods on hand is essential.
Vegetarian food is not uncommon since fresh meat is limited in rural regions. The food is nutritious but repetitive, providing the energy needed for trekking. Staying hydrated is also essential during the trek.
Accommodation in Makulu Base Camp
Accommodation in Makalu Base Camp Trek is primitive and very limited. Tea houses are provided along the trail with small rooms, each with a shared toilet.
The higher the level, the simpler the facilities and less equipment. Rooms usually have a bed, blanket, and pillow.
Camping is required in some remote places, as there is no teahouse. Trekkers need their own tents and sleeping bags for such situations.
There is no luxury accommodation in Makalu Base Camp, but it has sufficient infrastructure to accommodate trekkers. Basic living conditions must be anticipated on the trek.
A Typical Day On Makalu Base Camp Trek
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is very demanding, starting early in the morning. A leisurely breakfast at a teahouse, you start your day. The trail generally includes hiking through woods, towns, and rock trails, with some variation in terms of altitude and terrain.
You walk 5-7 hours a day with stops to rest and admire the scenery. Lunch is usually provided at a little teahouse somewhere on the route. The trek continues until the next stop.
Evenings are spent resting at a teahouse or campsite. You can take it easy, talk to fellow trekkers, or bask in twilight over the mountain views. Dinner is served on an earlier time scale, with simple but hearty rice and lentil soups (dal bhat) or noodles.
Finally, the day ends as the trekkers gear up for the next day. At higher elevations, nights are such cold temperatures, so a sleeping bag is necessary. Every day brings fresh challenges and breathtaking views of the landscape.
Permits Required for Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area Permit
This permit is necessary to enter the Makalu Barun National Park, which safeguards its distinctive fauna and vegetation.
Makalu Rural Municipality Permit
Trekkers must have a permit to walk through villages of the Makalu Rural Municipality.
Restricted Area Special Permit
Restriction areas on the route require a special permit. The permit has conditions and must be delivered through an authorized trekking agency. All permits are required and verified at different stages along the trail.
Travel Insurance
Insurance is essential for the Makalu Base Camp Trek because it is arduous and located in a remote area. The hikers remain at high altitudes, and the access routes are mostly rocky. The climate is unsettled, and the trail is treacherous.
Altitude sickness is a frequently raised concern and may necessitate helicopter emergency evacuation. Because of the remote site, minimal medical resources are nearby, and any injury or illness can rapidly escalate to a critical situation. Landslides, severe weather or accidents, and narrow trails will increase the risks.
Insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and helicopter rescue is a must. Without proper coverage, evacuation costs can be extremely high.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is unpredictable and even experienced trekkers can face unexpected dangers. Travel insurance assures you that you are ready for anything that can happen, giving you a sense of security while in the mountains. It is a safety net that you don’t want to skip on this hike.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Cost
The average cost of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is USD 2250 to 2800 per person. This includes the permit, guide and porter charges, accommodation charges, food and beverage charges, and transport charges. Flights from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and the reverse are provided.
Personal expenses like snacks, drinks, and tips are additional. Having a private guide or luxury amenities can lead to higher costs.
Although the trek is quite remote, the price is not as high as that of other well-known treks.
We offer the highest quality service, knowledgeable guides, and the lowest possible rates for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, which will create an unforgettable experience.
Best Time For The Trek
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is best accomplished in the spring and autumn (March to May and September to November). In these months, weather conditions are the most stable, and the skies are clear, so that is just the best time for trekking.
The weather is pleasant in spring, with stunning vistas of rhododendrons and other flowering plants all along the trail. The weather is mild, and not many people are on the trail.
Autumn is a time of fresh and dry air and blue skies, and those autumns provide the most spectacular views of the mountains. It is also the peak season for trekking in Nepal, hence busier, and the weather is also suitable for trekking.
Winter (December to February) and summer (June to August) are not recommended. Winter weather can be intensely cold, with snow halting parts of the pathway, and summer weather is intense, with the path often extraordinarily slick and hazardous due to rain.
Spring and autumn are the most favourable seasons for performing Makalu Base Camp Trek at its best.
Drinking Water
The complex topography may make water consumption while on the Makalu Base Camp Trek challenging. Most teahouses along the trail offer boiled water for trekkers, but purifying it with water purification tablets or a filter is recommended.
It is also wise to carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. Bottled water is supplied in certain places, but that can be expensive (e.g., water supply may be low at high altitudes, so appropriate hydration is critical). Never drink too little water, as it can cause dehydration during the trek
Itinerary of Makalu Base Camp Trek
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu’s international airport, our team will greet you there and assist with your hotel transfer. Our guide will provide all trek and Nepal stay details. Overnight at Hotel
- Hotel Arts Kathmandu or Similar ( 3 star)
Early flight to Tumlingtar with an amazing view of the Himalayas. From Tumlingtar, drive through winding roads and charming villages. Marking the trek, one sees views of verdant hills and terraced fields. Num is a tiny village set upon a ridge with breathtaking vistas over the valley. Rest and prepare for the trek ahead.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Tumlingtar is a charming town by the Arun River. Transfer to a local vehicle and drive to Num via scenic farm villages, Khandbari, and Chinchela. Stay overnight in a local lodge with stunning views of Jalajala Himal and Makalu peaks.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
The journey starts with a deep plunge at the edge of a forest and a creek. First, cross the Arun River on a suspension bridge and then ascend the slope. The trail becomes gradual as you pass through terraced fields and cardamom plantations. Enjoy the views of surrounding hills and villages. Arrive at Seduwa, a peaceful village surrounded by greenery.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Take a hike through terraced agricultural areas and small hill towns with lovely mountain views. The path climbs gradually with occasional steep sections. Pass through rhododendron and bamboo forests filled with birdsong. Tashi Gaon, a Sherpa village, has beautiful views of the backdrop hills. Relax and experience the mountain culture of the locals
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Today involves a steady uphill climb through thick forests. High up, the air grows colder and the land becomes more open. Khongma Danda is an impressive ridge with spectacular views in the mountain scenery. Rest here and acclimatize to the higher elevation.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Begin the day by walking over Shipton La Pass, then enjoy wonderful panoramic scenic views. The trail involves ascending and descending through ridges and rocky paths. Snow-capped peaks and pristine landscapes surround the trek. Follow small lakes and be immersed in the peace of the wild. Dobate is a small resting point amidst forested terrain.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
The trail descends through lush forests and landslide-prone sections. Walk carefully while enjoying views of waterfalls and rocky cliffs. Cross wooden bridges across glacial rivers. Yangle Kharka is an idyllic meadow nestled against the slopes of the massive peaks. Relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Trek along grassy hummock and glacial stream beds as you climb. The trail features beautiful images of colossal peaks, such as Mt. Makalu. Trek across rocky moraines and barren terrain while ascending further up. The cold air and vast open fields add to the adventure. Arrive at Langmale Kharka for a well-deserved rest.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Rest day to acclimatize to the high altitude and decrease the risk of illness. Go exploring the area with a short walk to surrounding hillscapes to enjoy magnificent views. Enjoy sights of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Relax, hydrate, and prepare for the base camp journey. On this day, your body is being rehabilitated in preparation for the next step.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
The trail climbs gradually through rocky terrain and glacial moraines. The stark landforms emphasize the wild beauty of the Himalayas. When approaching the base camp, take in spectacular views of Mt. Makalu. Capture memories of this majestic peak and the surrounding glaciers. Arrive at Makalu Base Camp, surrounded by towering mountains.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Wake up to refresh and set off for a dazzling full day hike at the Makalu Base Camp. Scenic views of Makalu, Everest, Lhotse and other might be seen. Hike along the glaciers basins and look at the wonderful views of the surrounding. Take pictures of this most memorable Himalayan setting. . Rest and absorb the peace of the base camp.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Retrace your steps back to Yangle Kharka. Descend over rugged land and pastures with beautiful mountain peaks behind. The downhill journey offers easier walking and fresh views. Pass through streams and forested trails once again. Rest overnight at Yangle Kharka, surrounded by lush landscapes.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Continue descending along the familiar trail through forested paths. Be careful when walking around the landslide-prone areas. The trail feels less challenging as you lose altitude. Waterfalls and river crossings make the walk refreshing. Arrive at Dobate for the night.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Hike back to Khongma Danda, retracing the earlier trail. The climb back involves some steep ascents and ridges. Experience the beautiful shifting panorama as you fly through forests and fields. Take breaks to admire the distant peaks and landscapes. Rest overnight at Khongma Danda.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
The trail goes down steeply, mixed with abundant forests and stone steps. Walk through small villages and terraced farmlands. Air warms up and gets more humid as you descend. Enjoy views of green hills and flowing rivers along the way. Arrive at Seduwa for a relaxing evening.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Descending on the last part of forest paths and settlements. Drive back to Tumlingtar from the village, crossing rural houses and serpentine roads. The trip provides glimpses of rivers, farmland, and daily life. Reflect on the incredible trek you’ve completed. Overnight in Tumlingtar, preparing for your return.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
To Kathmandu early morning flight, a look at Himalayas from the sky. Take a breathe and heal all up in the city after going through all the rush. Visit markets or go shopping; tour around the different and colourful streets of Kathmandu. The trekking assignment is done in right spirit you and your team can celebrate. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Hotel Arts Kathmandu or Similar
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Today marks your final day in Nepal. Our staff and guide will transfer you to Kathmandu airport after an unforgettable experience on the Makalu Base Camp Trek.
Price Info
The above price is based on services we provide for this trek. The price is always negotiable if you have more number of groups. So Please contact us with detail.
Price includes
- Kathmandu Airport – Hotel – Airport Transfers by private vehicle
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after the dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (basic Tea House) accommodations throughout the trek.
- Makalu National Park permits & Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS) permit.
- Round trip flight fare Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu with including airport transfer.
- A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly , English speaking well trained, Government License holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment his salary, foods, accommodation and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel Insurance Company.
- Use of sleeping bag, down Jacket, Duffel bag and walking Poles (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed).
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Makalu base camp trekking map.
- Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.
- Assistant guide group size above 10+ person.
- Government Tax and Service Charge
Price Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu Except Breakfast.
- Nepal entry visa fee $50 USD visa on arrival.
- Your Travel Rescue Insurance (compulsory).
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks.
- Tips for the guide, porter and driver (Tipping is expected).
- Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
- Excess baggage more than 20kgs for Tumlingtar flight.
Have any Questions? Check out FAQ'S
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
While previous trekking experience is definitely beneficial, it’s not mandatory. However, a good level of fitness and stamina is essential to tackle the challenging terrain.
All accommodations on the Makalu Base Camp Trek are in the form of teahouses and lodges. These are simple, locally run establishments providing basic services like meals, a bed, and a warm place to rest. For more rural locations, basic facilities and common areas can be expected.
Yes, permission is required to visit Makalu Barun National Park and to do so trekkers need to obtain Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit, Makalu Rural Municipality Permit, and Restricted Area Special Permit. These authorisations are used in a manner that will allow trekkers access into the protected areas as well as applying accesses to monitor the movements of trekkers.
Major equipment is robust trekking footwear, insulating clothing layers, a sleeping bag, waterproof jacket, trekking poles, and a small emergency first-aid kit. After the majors, a quality backpack, water purification tablets
The trek takes one to high ground of more than 5000m , and this poses threat to altitude sickness. That’s why it is advisable to adapt to climbing by taking rest days and increase gradually. Typical signs associated with altitude sickness include manifestation of mild headache, nausea, and dizziness and should be dealt with by descending immediately.
The trip begins by air from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and follows a scenic drive to the gateway of the trek at Num. The way to Num is bumpy, and it may take us several hours, but flights and the drive provide us a scenic exposure to the landforms of the area, so the drive is an adventure in itself.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek usually takes between 18‐22 days but could extend to a different timeframe depending on the timing in itinerary and acclimatization requirements. This involves travel time, rest days, and the trek itself. Duration can vary from person to person as of fitness level.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a relatively difficult hike. The trial is considered to be arduous because of its steepness, wildness, and length. It requires physical fitness and prior trekking experience. The most challenging aspects are high sections, absence of infrastructure and altitude sickness.
It is recommended that the best time to undertake the trek is in the pre-monsoon part of the year, that is March to May, and the post-monsoon period which is September to November. These months present good bright atmospheric visibility, favorable climate and scenery.
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