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Makalu Base Camp Trek

Recommended by 99% of travelers
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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

The Makalu Base Camp Trek commences in Tumlingtar. It is a beautiful place in eastern Nepal. You will get to explore amazing landscapes, like dense forests with colorful rhododendron flowers. This is going to look beautiful along the way. 

The charming villages where the Gurung people live will make you understand life in the remote places in Nepal. Also, the winding river valleys and the stunning Makalu Barun National Park will be the highlights. 

As you go higher up the mountains, you will see some incredible views of the Himalayas. The crystal-clear lakes up in the hills will melt your heart. And some of the challenging paths that take you to the rocky base camp of Makalu will be a real challenge. 

Best Time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek:

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is most enjoyable during two seasons: one is spring (March to May), and the other is autumn (September to November). 

You will be surrounded by colorful rhododendron flowers and lush green landscapes during the spring. While autumn brings clear skies and breathtaking Himalayan views, These times of year offer the ideal weather for an unforgettable and easy-to-go trekking adventure.

How Difficult is the Makalu Base Camp Trek:

The Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal presents a challenging yet immensely rewarding journey for trekkers. Understanding the difficulty and fitness requirements is crucial for a successful expedition.

Trek Difficulty:

  • Terrain: The trail involves diverse landscapes, from lush forests to high-altitude alpine zones. Trekkers encounter steep ascents, rocky paths, and occasional moraines.
  • Altitude: The trek reaches high elevations, with the Makalu Base Camp situated at around 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). Acclimatization days are essential to adapt to altitude changes and prevent altitude sickness.
  • Weather: Conditions can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating widely. Weather conditions may include snow, rain, and strong winds, especially at higher altitudes.

Fitness Requirements:

  • Physical Fitness: A good level of physical fitness is necessary. Regular cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, or cycling help prepare for long days of trekking.
  • Strength and Endurance: The trek demands strength and endurance to walk for several hours each day, often on challenging terrain. Building leg muscles and core strength is beneficial.
  • Altitude Adaptation: Acclimatization is crucial to minimize the risk of altitude-related problems. Slow and steady pacing allows the body to adjust gradually to higher altitudes.
  • Mental Preparedness: Trekking at high altitudes can be mentally taxing. Being mentally prepared for the challenges, including long hours of walking and potential weather changes, is vital.

Preparation and Planning for Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal

Preparing for the Makalu Base Camp Trek involves several key aspects to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the Nepalese Himalayas.

Here’s a detailed guide on preparation and planning for this trek:

Physical Conditioning:

  • Fitness Level: The trek to Makalu Base Camp is demanding and includes steep ascents and descents. Prioritize cardiovascular exercises, endurance training, and strength-building workouts to prepare.
  • Hiking Practice: Familiarize yourself with trekking by undertaking shorter hikes with elevation gain. This helps condition your body for the demands of trekking at higher altitudes.

Acquiring Necessary Permits:

  • Permit Requirements: Obtain the necessary permits, including the Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These are usually arranged through a licensed trekking agency in Nepal.
  • Documentation: Ensure you have your passport, passport-sized photos, and any required forms filled out accurately for permit applications.

Gear and Equipment:

  • Appropriate Clothing: Pack clothing suitable for varying weather conditions, including warm layers for high altitudes and waterproof gear for potential rain or snow.
  • Footwear: Invest in sturdy, well-fitted trekking boots with ankle support and proper traction for rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Trekking Gear: Carry a comfortable backpack, sleeping bag suitable for low temperatures, trekking poles for support, a headlamp, and a water purification system.

Accommodation and Food:

  • Lodging Options: Research and pre-book accommodations in teahouses or guesthouses along the trekking route. These options provide basic amenities like meals and shelter.
  • Food Supplies: While teahouses provide meals, carry energy bars, snacks, and electrolyte supplements for additional sustenance during the trek.

Altitude Acclimatization:

  • Gradual Ascent: Plan the itinerary with gradual altitude gain to allow your body to acclimatize effectively. Adequate acclimatization prevents altitude sickness.
  • Hydration and Rest: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and factor in rest days for acclimatization during the trek.

Hiring Guides and Porters:

  • Local Guides: Consider hiring an experienced guide familiar with the region for navigation, cultural insights, and potential emergency situations.
  • Porters: If necessary, arrange for porters to carry heavy equipment, allowing you to trek with a lighter load and reducing strain.

Insurance and Health Considerations:

  • Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations or interruptions.
  • Health Precautions: Consult a healthcare professional for vaccinations, medications for altitude sickness, and general health advice before embarking on the trek.

Final Checks:

  • Weather Forecast: Stay updated on the weather forecast for the trekking period to pack accordingly and anticipate potential weather challenges.
  • Communication: Share your itinerary with friends or family and carry a charged mobile phone or satellite communication device for emergencies.

Effective preparation and planning significantly enhance the trekking experience, ensuring safety and enjoyment adventure.

Conclusion:

Joining the Makalu Base Camp Trek is more than just a trek; it’s a transformational adventure. It’s a chance to push your physical and mental limits and connect with nature and its breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

With over two decades of experience as Nepal’s top trekking company, we at Himalayan Trekking and Tours extend our warm invitation to you.

Itinerary of Makalu Base Camp Trek

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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. In the evening, savor a Nepali dinner at a traditional restaurant to kickstart your Nepal adventure!

Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, exploring its rich historical and religious sites. Then, in the afternoon, prepare for your early morning flight to Tumlingtar, the starting point for your Makalu Base Camp trek.

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.

Descend for an hour to cross Arun River bridge, then uphill to Seduwa village. Overnight camp in Seduwa.

Today, we have a short trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon, a Sherpa farm village. It Is the last village before reaching Makalu Base Camp. We will walk through farmland and reach Tashigaon.

Leaving Tashi Gaon, we will trek through a dense forest, past cattle herder’s shelters. After a few hours, we will climb to the Kongma ridge. Our campsite offers views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Makalu, and nearby peaks.

We will walk through a wilderness ridge, visit Thulo Pokhari (large) and Sano Pokhari (small) glacial ponds. Then cross Tutu-la and Shipton la passes (over 4,453 m), and descend into a dense forest for our overnight camp at Mumbuk.

Descend to the beautiful Barun valley, known for rare, almost extinct plants and medicinal herbs, as well as mountain animals.

Hike up gradually with stunning peak views on both sides of the valley. Pass Yak herder shelters and a small Buddhist Gompa before reaching our overnight camp at Nehe Kharka in the scenic Barun valley.

Today, we will trek from Barun valley to Shersong, which is located at the end of the valley near Makalu Base Camp. The trail involves a gradual uphill walk, crossing streams, and offering stunning views of Mt. Makalu and Baruntse peaks.

After 7 days trekking, you will enjoy this relaxing day. As you prefer, you could stay at the basecamp to have a rest or explore the area to enjoy the view of Makalu Peak, the Kangshung face of Everest (part of Tibet) and Barun glacier. If you still have motivation you could walk an hour to find a large prairie that offer you a breath-taking views of the Himalaya.

Hike from Sherson to Makalu Base Camp, passing through rocky terrain, moraines, and icy patches. The camp is near a glacial pond by Baruntse Himal.

Overnight stay beneath Mt. Makalu’s towering South Face, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Start from Makalu base camp, backtrack toward the lower Barun valley, and arrive at Yangle Kharka.

Enjoy Barun valley, then hike to Mumbuk for camping.

In the morning, we will hike back along the scenic trail to Kongma Ridge. The trek begins with a one-hour climb through the forest. After leaving the tree line, we will pass glacial ponds and cross Tutu La and Shipton La before reaching Kongma Hill for our overnight camp.

Today, we start our descent from the high-altitude trek with a morning walk through a forest of tall trees. We will reach Tashi Gaon and continue towards Nawa Gaon or Narbu Gaon. Our route takes us through shaded forests and farm terraces until we reach the large Sherpa village of Nawa Gaon, where we’ll stay overnight.

Our final day of trekking takes us to Num village via Seduwa. We start with a descent to cross the Arun River on a bridge, followed by a steep climb. This is our last night in the beautiful Makalu Himalaya region.

In the morning, our adventure concludes with an exciting drive to the charming town of Tumlingtar, passing through scenic farm villages like Chinchila, Manebhanjyang, and the bustling town of Khandbari.

Enjoy stunning mountain views on your morning flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. Once in Kathmandu, our staff will assist you in getting back to your hotel. You have the rest of the day to relax after your memorable Makalu Base Camp Trek.

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.

Note 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.

You will stay in teahouses and lodges along the trail, providing comfortable and authentic Himalayan experiences.

Yes, you will need permits for the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area. Our team will assist you in obtaining them.

Please do not worry. We got you covered, as we prioritize safety at a paramount level. Our experienced guides will help you acclimatize properly. It is essential to listen to their advice and stay hydrated.

We provide a detailed packing list upon booking, but essentials include warm clothing, trekking boots, a good quality backpack, and a sleeping bag.