Makalu Base Camp Trekking

Price

USD 1897

Trip Duration

20 days

Trip Grade

Moderate/Difficult

Highest Altitude

5100m

Accommodation

Tea House, Hotel

Transportation

local Bus, Jeep, Car, Flight

Group Size

1-10

Best Season

All around the year Except winter(Jan-Feb)

Makalu Base Camp Trekking Introduction

Makalu Base Camp Trekking is a captivating journey in the Himalayas that offers breathtaking views and a thrilling adventure. Located in the Makalu-Barun National Park, this trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged terrains, culminating in the mesmerizing Makalu Base Camp. Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of the region as you explore this remote and pristine corner of the world.

The Makalu Base Camp trek starts from Tumlingtar in the mid-eastern region of Nepal. This high-altitude journey unfolds diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests and picturesque Gurung villages to river valleys and the Makalu Barun National Park. As we ascend, breathtaking Himalayan panoramas, high-altitude lakes, and challenging passes lead to the rocky base camp of Mount Makalu at 5100m.

This long and strenuous trek offers a gradual acclimatization process, Ideal for avid trek and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility away from the huge crowds. From the base camp, witness the most beautiful Barun Glacier, the south face of Mt. Makalu (8,481m), and a panoramic view of Everest and Lhotse & surrounding Mountains.

On the way back, cross the Tutu La Pass (4,125m), now known as Shipton’s Pass, named after mountaineer Eric Shipton. Shipton significantly mapped the famous route over the Khumbu Glacier in the Everest region in the in 1950s.

The Makalu Barun National Park, home to 3,000 plant species, 440 bird species, and 75 mammal species, including the elusive snow leopard and red panda, offers wildlife sightings at lower altitudes. The trek presents an ideal photography haven for the trekkers with its diverse terrain of green pastures, villages, and forests juxtaposed against snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and rocky trails.

Highlights

  • One of the less trekked trekking in Nepal
  • Trekkers looking for an adventurous trek with lots of challenges
  • Unspoiled landscapes and jaw-dropping mountain panoramas
  • Great views of the Himalayas like Everest, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu
  • Trek around the fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu,
  • Explore the remote mountain villages, culture & Hospitality
  • Authentic mountain lifestyle untouched by modernization
  • Come across a range of flora and fauna along the trekking route
  • Base Camp of Makalu itself
  • A scenic flight to Tumlingtar

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival Day in Kathmandu
  • Day 2: Fly to Tumlingtar than drive to Khandbari (1036m)
  • Day 3: Travel from Khandbari to Num (1500m) (38 km) Trek from Num to Seduwa (1540m)
  • Day 4: Trek from Seduwa to Tasigaun (2070m)
  • Day 5: Trek from Tasigaun To Khongma ( 3560m)m)
  • Day 6: Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobato (3550m)
  • Day 7: Trek from Dobato to Yangle Kharka (3600m)
  • Day 8: Yangle Kharka Rest Day. ( 3600)
  • Day 9: Trek from Yangre Kharka to Langmale Kharka ( 4400)
  • Day 10: Trek from Langmale to Makalu Base camp (4870 m)
  • Day 11: Makalu Base Camp Exploration Day (4870m)
  • Day 12: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka
  • Day 13: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Dobato
  • Day 14: Trek from Dobato To Khongma
  • Day 15: Trek from Khongma to Tasigaun
  • Day 16: Trek from Tasigaun to Seduwa
  • Day 17: Trek from Seduwa Chamlakharka, travle from Chamla Kharka to Khandbari
  • Day 18: Travel from Khandbari to Tumlingtar, Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
  • Day 19:- Sightseeing exploration(city tour) in Kathmandu
  • DAY 20:- DEPARTURE DAY

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Day in Kathmandu

We will come to pick you up at Tribhuvan International Airport then transfer you to your hotel in Thamel Kathmandu, rest relax & recover from long flight jet lag. Evening 5 PM trip briefing & meeting with the guide for your Makalu Base Camp Trekking. 

Day 2: Fly to Tumlingtar than drive to Khandbari (1036m)

After an early start towards the airport then 30-minute smooth flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar airport. Our company’s field Staff will be at the airport. Then catch an auto rickshaw and travel for 15 minutes to the Khandbari hotel room. After having some rest at the hotel, meet your porter/Staff and be introduced to them. A detailed discussion and plan and pack of necessary goods in the bag and be completely ready for 14 days long trek.

Day 3: Travel from Khandbari to Num (1500m) (38 km) Trek from Num to Seduwa (1540m)

This day is your 1st MBC Trek day. ( 4 hours traveling by jeep and 4 hours walking). After your breakfast at your hotel at about 8 am, you catch your reserved jeep and travel for about 4 hours and get Num. After some rest at Num, you travel down to Chamlakharka. Leave the jeep there. Your real Makalu Base Camp Trek starts from here. Carry your bags and trek down to the Arun River, cross the suspension bridge on the river, and ascend and get to Seduwa Village (1540m) for your overnight stay at the local tea house there.
We will Register your TIMS card and purchase the Makalu Barun National Park Entrance permits at the Park Site Office 

Day 4: Trek from Seduwa to Tasigaun (2070m)

On the second day of your MBC trek, you walk 4-6 hours to reach your destination (Tasigaun 2027m). All the part of this Trekking trail is uphill. So you climb gently. You pass Chyaksedanda (1890m) and primary school at the bottom of Tasigaun. In the evening you get Tasi Gaun for your overnight stay at a teahouse there.

Day 5: Trek from Tasigaun To Khongma ( 3560m)m)

After your breakfast at the tea house, you commence your 4-6 hours trek You pass Danda Kharka, Chipla (2520m) Unishisha (3180m)and finally ascend to Khongma (3560m). You may experience the first sign of high-altitude mountain breathing. 

Day 6: Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobato (3550m)

After your breakfast at the tea house, commence your trek to Dobato, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to get there. This day you cross three passes: Ghenguru La (4045m), Shipton La (4216m), and Keke La (4150m). As you trek, take in the breathtaking beauty of Chamalang (7319m) Barunatse Himchuli (6424m) and admire the impressive peaks of Peak 6 (6739m) and Peak 7 (6105m) and finally reach Dobato for your overnight stay at a teahouse there.

Day 7: Trek from Dobato to Yangle Kharka (3600m)

Have your breakfast prepared for your 4-5 hours’ trek to Yangle From Dobato walk slowly down, pass Phematang cross a suspension bridge on the Braun River, and finally get to Yangle Kharka (3600m) for your overnight night stay there.

Day 8: Yangle Kharka Rest Day. ( 3600)

Today is your rest day at Yangle. Use this time to fully relax and appreciate the stunning natural beauty around you. explore surroundings. Your overnight stay at the same tea house.

Day 9: Trek from Yangre Kharka to Langmale Kharka ( 4400)

After your breakfast embark on a gentle climb to Nghe Kharka (3750m), Ripuk Kharka (3930m), Jhak Kharka (4210m), and finally reach Langmale Kharka (4400m). This day you trek approximately 4 to 5 hours. Find one of the best tea houses at Langmale Kharka for your overnight stay.

Day 10: Trek from Langmale to Makalu Base camp (4870 m)

Have your morning breakfast to begin your 4 to 5-hour trek to reach the Makalu Base Camp at 4870 meters. Once you arrive, find one of the best tea houses to enjoy a delicious meal and a comfortable rest. Observe beautiful stunning surroundings and enjoy the achievement of reaching your trekking destination.

Day 11: Makalu Base Camp Exploration Day (4870m)

Explore the beautiful surroundings of the Makalu Base Camp area. Your guide will assist you in reaching sights such as Barun Pokhari (4950m), Peak 3 above Shersong (5250m), the Hillary Base Camp viewpoint (5900m), and more. Take in the stunning views and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. At the end of the day, return to the same tea house for an overnight stay.

Day 12: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka

This day is when you’re coming back home from your trek. After your breakfast begin your descent to Yangle Kharka. find a suitable tea house in Yangle Kharka for your overnight stay.

Day 13: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Dobato

Have your morning breakfast at the tea house, and walk for 4 to 6 hours to get Dobato for your overnight stay.

Day 14: Trek from Dobato To Khongma

After your breakfast at Dobato walk up to Shipton La and descend to Khongma Way which will take 4 to 6 hours. Upon arrival at Khongma find a room for your overnight stay at a teahouse there. Again enjoy the surrounding beauty around the place.

Day 15: Trek from Khongma to Tasigaun

After your morning breakfast at Khongma make your way down to Tasigaun, taking 4 to 6 hours to complete the trek. Find a comfortable room in a tea house, take some time to relax, and have a meal and drink. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of the area. Spend the night at a tea house in Tasigaun.

Day 16: Trek from Tasigaun to Seduwa

After having breakfast at the tea house in Tasigaun, slowly and carefully make your way down to Seduwa for a 4 to 6-hour trek. Look for one of the best tea houses in Seduwa and take time to relax and enjoy a meal and drinks. Explore the sights and surroundings of the area.

Day 17: Trek from Seduwa Chamlakharka, travle from Chamla Kharka to Khandbari

After fueling up with breakfast at the tea house in Seduwa, walk down to the Arun River, cross the suspension bridge of the river, and ascend to the motorable road to catch your pre-booked jeep. After traveling for four hours you arrive at Khandbari hotel room. Say goodbye to your porters & prepare for your journey back to Kathmandu.

Day 18: Travel from Khandbari to Tumlingtar, Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu

Enjoy your breakfast at the tea house/home, and then catch a jeep for a 20-minute drive to Tumlingtar. Prepare for your flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will transfer you to the hotel, rest relax then join the evening farewell dinner from the company & we are eager to hear all the feedback from the trip.

Day 19:- Sightseeing exploration(city tour) in Kathmandu

Today is the exploration of the city of temples, gods, culture, art, architecture, and traditional capital city of this Himalayan country. out of the 10 world heritage sites of Kathmandu, 7 of them are inside this beautiful capital city making the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage sites, As visiting all of these historic and religious landmarks in a single day is not possible, you will explore 3-4 of these magnificent marvels in this day. Visiting Swyambhunath Temple(Monkey temple), Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath temple & Bouddhanath Stupa.

DAY 20:- DEPARTURE DAY

It’s your last day in Nepal! Grab some breakfast, and then take in some last-minute shopping in Kathmandu. We’ll make sure you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport with plenty of time before your flight home. At this time, we’ll say we see you again and bid you farewell, armed with warm memories and gorgeous photos to show your loved ones.

Includes

  • A professional trekking guide & necessary no of porters (2:1) with their salary, meal, accommodation, transportation & insurance
  • Simple tea houses in trekking with 3 times of meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) with 3 cups of tea each meal. 
  • Necessary permits like TIMS card, National Park permit, & Rural Municipality fees.
  • Kathmandu Tumlingtar  Kathmandu flight
  • Khandbari Tumlingtar transportation on Local Bus
  • Three-star category hotel in Kathmandu on twin sharing (BB) basis
  • All ground transportation like pick up and drop (domestic/Intl)
  • Guided city tour of UNESCO sites in Kathmandu
  • Group First aid kit box with an oximeter
  • Government-licensed Guide on the Trekking & City.

Excludes

  • All Kind of beverages
  • All extra expenses such as shopping/trekking gear.
  • International flights
  • Private Jeep (Optional)
  • All kinds of beverages 
  • Extra facilities during the trip like hot shower, charging, internet laundry etc.
  • City entrance fee in Kathmandu
  • Early arrival/ late departure from or to Kathmandu 
  • Or the thing not mentioned above
  • The cost is raised by unforeseen circumstances like political disturbance, strikes, natural disasters, cancelation of flights bad weather, etc.

Trip Map

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
The Makalu Base Camp Trek typically takes around 18 to 22 days, depending on the chosen route, itinerary, and pace of the trekker.
What is the best time to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
The best time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally stable, and the skies are clear.
How difficult is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered to be a strenuous and challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers. The trail involves steep ascents, descents, rugged terrain, and high altitude, reaching over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) at Makalu Base Camp.
What permits are required for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Trekkers need to obtain permits for both the Makalu-Barun National Park and the Makalu Conservation Area. These permits can be obtained through registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu or directly from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
What is the altitude of Makalu Base Camp?
Makalu Base Camp is located at an altitude of approximately 4,800 meters (15,750 feet) above sea level.
What are the accommodation options along the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Accommodation options along the trekking route include teahouses, lodges, and camping. Teahouses are available in some villages along the trail, while camping is necessary in more remote areas.
Is it possible to trek independently or should I hire a guide?
While it is technically possible to trek independently, hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended due to the challenging nature of the terrain and the remoteness of the region.
What should I pack for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Essential items to pack include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, first aid kit, water purification tablets, and high-energy snacks. It's also important to carry appropriate permits, documents, and insurance.
Are there any health risks associated with the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Altitude sickness is a significant concern due to the high elevation of the trek. Trekkers should acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on the trek.
What wildlife can be seen during the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
The Makalu-Barun National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan thars, and various species of birds and butterflies. However, sightings of large mammals are rare due to the remote and rugged terrain.

Reviews

  • star rating  Fantastic Annapurna hike - I went with Resham on a 7 day hike around Annapurna, and 10 days total in Nepal. He helped us along every step of the way, arranging food, accomodation, flights... read more

    avatar thumb Cruiser30576832181
    March 9, 2024
  • star rating  I have been visiting places and using different tour guides for weeks - and I can say with certainty that Rey is the best one I have had so far.... read more

    avatar thumb Kamagate A
    March 8, 2024