Makalu Base Camp Trek

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Cost of trekking
Price starts from

USD 3450

Meals
Meal

Breakfast in Kathmandu & Full meals on a trek

Trekking detail: Start & End Point
Start & End Point

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Transportation details
Transportation

Flight and Private Transport

Accommodation
Accommodations

Hotel and Lodge

Activity - Trekking
Activity

6-7 hours walking

Maximum Altitute
Max Altitude

4,870m/15,978ft

Level of trip difficulty
Trip Grade

Challenging

Best Travel Time
Best Time

March to May & September to November

Overview

Trekkers who have done tons of treks will always look for new challenges. They always seek something new to show their trekking expertise in high altitudes. For those mountain lovers, the Makalu Base camp trek happens to be one of the best choices. Sincerely, the Makalu base camp trek is among the most spectacular excursions for anybody hoping to witness the unspoiled Himalayas and its wilderness. To be honest, the Makalu base camp trek is not one of the famous treks around the Himalayas. Thus, its quiet and lively off-the-beaten trails have never failed to impress trekkers.

On a single trekking day of this journey, you will cross four passes of this region. Meanwhile, all of these passes are above 4000m, which is gonna be quite interesting for you to explore. Because of these high passes and several ascents and descents, the Makalu base camp trek is regarded as one of the hardest treks in the Himalayas. But as you are mindful, a high-level task comes with a high-level reward. A spectacular landscape of the eight-thousander peaks, including Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, and others, can be seen seamlessly on this breathtaking trek to Makalu Base Camp.

The Makalu base camp trek starts with the terraced green farmlands in the lower altitudes. Later on, the trail follows the lustful and evergreen rhododendron forests of the prestigious Makalu Barun National Park. Along with the lust vegetation, the trek also takes you through deep gorges, waterfalls, ponds, and lakes which makes it one of the most diverse trails in the Himalayas. Another feature of this trek is that you may also learn about the locals' way of life and culture here. You will be grasping the histories and cultures of the region's main people, the Gurung, Rai, and Sherpas. We are sure that you are gonna enjoy their warm Hospitality while having a nice conversation with them.

Itinerary

At the Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative of our company will be there to greet you as soon as you come out from the immigration. After a heartfelt encounter between the two of you, he will escort you to the private vehicle. Once you have settled into the car, you will be taken to one of Kathmandu's lovely hotels.

After checking in at the hotel, you deserve some time to relax. Once you've calmed down at your hotel, you'll prepare for the trek briefing in our office or in the hotel. In this briefing, all of the specifics of the journey will be addressed. So please feel comfortable to ask the speaker any queries you may have right away.

Meanwhile, if you want to move the trek briefing to the following day, that is also OK with us. Overnight at the hotel.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,300m/4,264ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

3 Star Hotel

Kathmandu, the nation's capital, offers a distinct sense of its past, picturesque surroundings, and historical sites for tourists. More specifically, during this sightseeing tour, you will be taken into these distinctive sites of the city. Those sites hold a special significance to a couple of religion that dates back to the medieval era or even earlier. As a result, the historical works of art are shown in various forms at each of these sites. On this journey, visits will be made at Boudhanath Stupa, Swoyambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. You may also choose Patan Durbar Square instead of any of these 4.

After spending a day seeing these beautiful spots, we will finally gather to prepare the gear and hiking equipment (a sleeping bag, and a down jacket) for the Makalu base camp trek. When all preparations are finished, you may relax at the hotel or spend the evening wandering the city's streets. Overnight at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,300m/4,264ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

3 Star Hotel 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast 

To catch a flight to Tumlingtar, we must go to the domestic airport today. In total, we will spend about 9 to 10 hours. The flight will take about 35 minutes and goes through the scenic air route providing you with the magical scenes of the Himalayas as well as hilly regions. After arriving at the airport you will catch a road 4-5 hours road trip that will head to the Chichira village of the Gurung People. Overnight at the lodge in Chichira village.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,980m/6497ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today on the starting day we will have to cross nearly 6 to 7 hours of trails ahead of us to reach Num village. The trail will take us through old-styled villages with picturesque scenes of the mountains and the lust forests. Num is situated at the high ridge from where you can see the fabulous views of the landscapes nearby. Overnight at the lodge in Num.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,560m/5119ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we will make our way downwards to pass through the terraced fields and forest to catch the Barun River. Crossing the river a couple of times, we will enter the Makalu Barun National Park area. Here we must register the name with credentials to obtain a permit. We will continue our trek for a while until we reach Seduwa village. Seduwa village is situated parallel to Num village. Overnight at the lodge in Seduwa.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,500m/4922 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we will trek with two rivers, Ishuwa Khola and Kusuwa Khola side by side. We will soon cross Isuwa Khola and go through several tiny settlements and forests. We will then pass through the rice fields until we reach the eye-relaxing exotic village of Tashi Gaon. Here, you will be surrounded by the beautiful Himalayas. Overnight at the lodge in Tashigaon.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
2,100m/6890 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

The paths are more difficult now since we must travel through more difficult terrain at greater altitudes. Today we will have to head upwards through forests and rivers ultimately leading us up to the ridge. We will keep on ascending as the trail gets more steeper and steeper. Finally, we will arrive at the Kharka, and we go down the rocky stone steps and across lakes until we reach the top of the ridge. From this ridge, it just takes some moments to reach Khongma Dada. Spectacular views of the Chamlan mountain can be seen from the hilltop of this village as we overnight here.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
3,500m/11,483 ft)
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

We will have to take the first rest day of our Makalu base camp trek as we are already at the height of 3500m. Therefore, before we gradually climb upward, it will be much better to acclimatize ourselves at this atmospheric level. Furthermore, it will give us plenty of time to recover before heading to Shipton La the following day. But besides resting for a full day, it will be so much better for you to explore the village surroundings for the views. You'll eventually arrive at the same place for the overnight stay.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
3,500m/11,483 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

With plenty of the rest yesterday, we are all set to cross 4 of the passes to finally Dobate. First, we will head towards Kauma La Pass (3637m) and then head onto Keke La Pass (4127m). Also, we further climb to Shipton La Pass (4170m) and explore the nearby lake Kalo Pokhari ( 3930m). After exploring we head towards Tutu La Pass and finally arrive at the Dobate Valley for an overnight stay after trekking for a couple of hours.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
3,550m/11,646 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we will trek through the Rhododendron forest eventually leading to the Barun River and up to the Valley. The starting couple of hours is pretty difficult as you have to climb the difficult steep slope. Here you also may have the possibility of falling rocks and Landslides. We will steadily go up the trail and gain height until we reach Yangri Kharka, which is located at the bottom of the valley. Overnight at the lodge in Yangri Kharka.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
3,557m/11,670 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we will follow the moderate walking path from the valley. The path will lead us through boulder fields, yak farms, wooden bridges, and lust woods. While starting the trek, we will encounter the huge valley walls above us. Chasing the spectacular mountains we will head through moraines and small villages to ultimately arrive at Langmale Kharka. Overnight at the lodge in Langmale Kharka.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
4410m/14468ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today is our special day as we are going towards the Manaslu South base camp. We will make our way to Shershong from Langmale Kharka and finally to Makalu Base camp. The path is flat and made up of icy glaciers accompanied by views of the snowy mountains. Upon reaching the base camp, Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, and many other peaks from Eastern Nepal will be ready to greet you. The Himalayan vistas from the base camp will truly be breathtaking to watch. Overnight at the tent in Makalu base camp.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
4870m/15978ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

The base camp is located in a rocky, desolate area, and beyond it lies the immense Barun glacier. Today we will fully explore the base camp as we see the unmatched panorama of Makalu base camp from the south face. We will also see the extended view of Everest and Lhotse today. After fully soaking in the views, we will go to explore the Barun Pokhari and Barun glacier which are just some moments far away. Exploring all of these destinations, you will celebrate your accomplishments and enjoy your time capturing memories. Overnight at the Lodge in Makalu base camp.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
4870m/15978ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we make our way down from the base camp as we take our last glimpse of the Makalu base camp trek. We will head through the scattered forest with rugged trails, we pass through the villages like Shersong, Langmale Kharka, and Merek. Further, we will make our way down to stop at Yangri Kharka for an overnight stay.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
3,557m/11,670 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we trek alongside the Barun River eventually leading us through alpine forests, ridges, and a couple of water streams to finally arrive at Dobate. We will have a fine look at the natural landscapes while descending to Dobate. You could see quite a few exotic animals along the trail, including yaks, blue sheep, pheasants, and many others. Overnight at the lodge in Dobate.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
3,550m/11,646 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we begin our trek with an uphill climb to Mumbuk through the Fir and Rhododendron forests. Moving on we will reach the Base of the Keke La pass. We then Cross Tutu La Pass, Shipton La Pass, and Kauma La Pass to descend down to Khongma Dada. Overnight at the lodge in Khongma Dada.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
3,500m/11,483 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we will do a long and steep descent that goes through the thick forests and lakes. We shall continue down the rocky pathways that cross the mountainside. It would take us nearly about 5 hours to finally reach the indigenous village of Tashigaon. Overnight at the lodge in Tashigaon.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
2,100m/6890 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today we will make our way down through the terraced fields and retrace our step back towards Seduwa village. Waving goodbye to the flora and fauna we exit Makalu barun national park today. Further, we will also cross the hillside and encounter some villages along the route. Finally, after going much lower through the Barun River we will finally stop at the Seduwa to spend the night at the local lodge.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,500m/4922 ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today's trek is primarily a lengthy, steep descent down through a series of stone stairs that leads to the Arun River. You will cross plenty of uphill and downhill sections that pass through dense forest and sherpa communities. As you drop down to a relatively low altitude you will feel a lot warmer than before. Finally, you will cross the river and return to Num village after completing an 800-m climb. Overnight at the lodge in Num Village.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,560m/5119ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Finally, today is the last day of your Makalu base camp trek journey. We will enjoy the last views of Mt. Makalu as you follow the path to Chichira. Finally, upon reaching Tumlingtar, you may congratulate yourselves on completing this difficult and amazing journey. We will remain here and relax before leaving early the next morning for Kathmandu.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
285m/935ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

Lodge 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Luch & Dinner 

We'll eat breakfast this morning and then head to the airport early to catch the flight back to Kathmandu. Again we will fly back to the capital with the Evergreen amazing views of the mountains from the air. So for that reason, don't forget to choose the right-hand seat in the aircraft for the fine view.

After landing at the airport you will be met and transferred to the hotel. At the hotel, you can rest and relax for a day. Or, you could explore the nearby streets and be ready for the farewell meal specially organized for you. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Maximum Altitude
Altitude
1,300m/4,264ft
Loding Level
Accommodation

3 Star Hotel 

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Today marks the end of your trek through the Manaslu base camp with us. A representative of our company will delicately take you to the international airport three hours before your flight while having a nice conversation. He will congratulate you cordially and wish you a safe and prosperous journey once you get to the entryway. Even when we part ways, we won't forget you and we are always ready to contact you through a variety of means. Happy traveling till then!

Single Supplementary
Meals

Breakfast

Include

    • Airport pick-up and drop by private vehicle
    • 3 Nights twin sharing accommodation in Kathmandu at 3 star standard hotel with breakfast
    • One full-day guided city tour  of Kathmandu by private vehicle
    • Trekking permits and TIMS permits
    • Restricted area permit 
    • Flight tickets to Tumlingtar and Return
    • All meals during the trek (Lunch/Dinner/Breakfast)
    • Gov. licensed and trained English-speaking guide and his entire expenses
    • A porter (One Local porter for every 2 members) and his entire expenses
    • Insurance of Guide and Porter
    • All required local tax and Gov tax
    • Down jackets and sleeping bags (Rental basis)
    • Trekking route map
    • First Aid Medical kit box (Basic) along with Oximeter 
    • Drinking water (medicated safe, purified)
    • Final Dinner in Kathmandu 

Exclude

    • Nepal arrival visa
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except breakfast and above mentioned special dinner)
    • Monument entrance fees while on a city tour
    • Your personal nature expenses eg. Mineral water, Beer, Coke, and entire beverage, etc
    • Travel insurance that covers trip cancelation and Helicopter evacuation
    • Tips to staff 
    • Other extending trips and accommodation 

Useful info

Packing list

Clothes

  • Waterproof jacket
  • Raincoat
  • Lightweight Down jacket (Provided)
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Lightweight trekking trousers
  • Hiking shorts (if trekking in the summer)
  • Thermals (top and bottom, merino ideal)
  • Two to three trekking t-shirts/shirts
  • Fleece or warm mid-layer
  • Waterproof thick gloves
  • Glove liners
  • Hiking socks and lighter walking socks
  • Wool hat
  • Sun hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Spare underwear
  • Buff or similar to cover your neck and face
  • One pair of worn-in, waterproof hiking boots
  • One pair of lightweight trainers (for the camp, in the evenings)
  • 4 season sleeping bag (Provided)

Extra Clothes for Winter

  • Extra warm layers (add an extra warm item to all key items above)
  • Extra set of thermals (pair to walk in, pair to sleep in)
  • Merino trekking socks
  • Merino glove liners
  • Gaiters
  • Hand warmer

Tech

  • Powerbank
  • Universal plug adaptor
  • Charging cables
  • Phone / iPod /Kindle

Toiletries

  • Biodegradable wet wipes
  • Hand gel
  • Small biodegradable bags to take toilet tissue off the mountain
  • Toilet paper
  • Sunscreen & lip block
  • Personal medication

First Aid Kit, including:

  • Anti-Diarrhoea Tablets (Imodium)
  • Painkillers
  • Anti-inflammatories
  • Throat Lozenges
  • Rehydration Sachets
  • Blister Plasters
  • Vaseline - to rub on feet to reduce friction
  • Diamox for (only after consultation with a medical professional)

OTHER ITEMS

  • Trekking poles
  • Travel towel
  • Two water bottles (one liter each)
  • Metal SIGG bottle (useful to fill with hot water to use as a hot water bottle at bedtime)
  • Water purification tablets, such as Lifestraw or SteriPEN
  • Crampons or chained spikes that will fit any boot, if you don't have crampon-suitable boots (for winter departures between December and March)
  • Day pack with rain cover (30 liters +)
  • Duffel bag (for the porters to carry overnight kit) (Provided)

 

 

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