Makalu Base Camp Trekking

Highlights

1. Majestic Peaks:

At 8,485 meters (27,838 feet), Mount Makalu is the fifth highest peak in the world. Its pyramid-like summit dominates the skyline, drawing climbers and trekkers alike.

The Makalu Barun National Park, home to Mount Makalu, boasts a stunning array of peaks, including Chamlang (7,319m), Baruntse (7,129m), and Mera Peak (6,476m), offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

2. Biodiversity Hotspot:

Makalu Barun National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, harboring diverse ecosystems ranging from lush subtropical forests to alpine meadows.

Trekkers have the chance to encounter rare wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear, and over 400 species of birds.

3. Cultural Encounters:

The Makalu region is home to diverse ethnic communities, including the Sherpas, Rais, and Limbus, each with their own unique traditions, languages, and lifestyles.

Trekking through remote villages allows travelers to immerse themselves in local culture, visit ancient monasteries, and partake in traditional festivities.

4. Challenging Terrain:

Trekking in the Makalu region is not for the faint of heart. Trails traverse rugged terrain, steep ascents, and high passes, offering a challenge to even the most seasoned trekkers.

The trek to Makalu Base Camp, crossing the challenging Shipton La Pass (4,216m), rewards adventurers with unparalleled views of the Himalayan giants.

5. Untouched Wilderness:

Unlike the popular Everest and Annapurna regions, the Makalu region remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering a sense of pristine wilderness and tranquility.

Trekkers can enjoy the solitude of the mountains, surrounded by unspoiled nature and far from the crowds.

Overview

Nepal's Makalu region beckons adventurers seeking to delve into the heart of the Himalayas. Tucked away in the eastern part of the country, this hidden gem offers a trekking experience that combines rugged terrain, breathtaking scenery, and cultural immersion like no other.

At the heart of the Makalu region stands Mount Makalu itself, the fifth highest peak in the world, towering at 8,485 meters. Surrounded by a constellation of other majestic peaks like Chamlang and Baruntse, the region boasts a landscape that's both awe-inspiring and challenging.

Trekking through the Makalu Barun National Park, adventurers traverse diverse ecosystems, from lush subtropical forests teeming with exotic wildlife to alpine meadows carpeted with vibrant flowers. It's a biodiversity hotspot, home to elusive creatures like the snow leopard and the red panda, as well as over 400 species of birds.

But Makalu isn't just about nature; it's also a cultural mosaic, with Sherpas, Rais, and Limbus inhabiting its remote villages. Trekking through these communities offers a glimpse into traditional mountain life, with ancient monasteries, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and warm hospitality greeting weary travelers.

The trek to Makalu Base Camp is a highlight for many adventurers, though not for the faint of heart. Crossing the challenging Shipton La Pass at 4,216 meters, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, a sight few have beheld.

Unlike the crowded trails of Everest and Annapurna, the Makalu region remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering a sense of solitude and tranquility that's rare in today's world. It's a place where the spirit of adventure thrives, where every step brings you closer to the raw, untamed beauty of the Himalayas.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure amidst some of the most spectacular scenery on earth, Makalu is the ultimate destination. With its challenging terrain, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture, it promises an experience that will stay with you long after you've left its rugged peaks behind.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (Flight)

Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, a scenic 50-minute flight. Tumlingtar is the starting point of the trek.

Overnight stay in Tumlingtar.

Day 2 : Tumlingtar to Num (1,560m)

Drive from Tumlingtar to Chichira, which takes about 3-4 hours.

Trek from Chichira to Num, a small village, which takes around 5-6 hours.

Overnight stay in Num.

Day 3 : Num to Seduwa (1,540m)

Trek from Num to Seduwa, passing through lush forests and small villages.

Overnight stay in Seduwa.

Day 4 : Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,070m)

Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon, a Sherpa village.

Overnight stay in Tashigaon.

Day 5 : Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3,500m)

Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda, ascending through rhododendron forests.

Overnight stay in Khongma Danda.

Day 6 : Acclimatization Day at Khongma Danda

Rest and acclimatize at Khongma Danda. Optionally, you can take a short hike to nearby viewpoints for acclimatization purposes.

Overnight stay in Khongma Danda.

Day 7 : Khongma Danda to Dobate (3,500m)

Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains.Overnight stay in Dobate.

Day 8 : Dobate to Yangri Kharka (3,557m)

Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka, passing through lush forests and yak pastures.

Overnight stay in Yangri Kharka.

Day 9 : Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka (4,410m)

Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka, ascending gradually.

Overnight stay in Langmale Kharka.

Day 10 : Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m)

Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp, which offers breathtaking views of Makalu and its surrounding peaks. Spend some time exploring the base camp. Overnight stay at Makalu Base Camp.

Day 11 : Explore Makalu Base Camp

Spend the day exploring Makalu Base Camp and its surroundings. Optionally, you can hike to nearby viewpoints for better views. Overnight stay at Makalu Base Camp.

Day 12 : Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka

Trek back from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka, retracing your steps. Overnight stay in Yangri Kharka.

Day 13 : Yangri Kharka to Dobate

Trek from Yangri Kharka to Dobate. Overnight stay in Dobate.

Day 14 : Dobate to Khongma Danda

Trek from Dobate to Khongma Danda. Overnight stay in Khongma Danda.

Day 15 : Khongma Danda to Tashigaon

Trek from Khongma Danda to Tashigaon. Overnight stay in Tashigaon.

Day 16 : Tashigaon to Seduwa

Trek from Tashigaon to Seduwa. Overnight stay in Seduwa.

Day 17 : Seduwa to Num

Trek from Seduwa to Num. Overnight stay in Num.

Day 18 : Num to Tumlingtar and return to Kathmandu (Flight)

Trek from Num to Chichira and drive back to Tumlingtar. Fly from Tumlingtar back to Kathmandu. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Inclusions

What is included?

Permits and Fees:

This usually covers the Makalu Restricted Area Permit, Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Guide and Porter:

Most packages include the cost of a licensed guide and porter(s). Guides are essential for navigation, safety, and cultural insights, while porters help carry your gear, allowing you to enjoy the trek with less load.

Accommodation:

2 nights hotel in Kathmandu and accommodations along the trekking route, usually in tea houses or lodges, are included. These are basic but comfortable enough for trekkers.

Meals:

Typically, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included during the trek. The meals are usually provided at the tea houses or lodges where you stay. Meals can range from local Nepali cuisine.

Transportation:

Transportation from Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu by domestic flight and all pick up drop off by private car

First Aid Kit:

We Most provide a basic first aid kit. However, it's advisable to carry your own personal medications and supplies.

What isn't included?

International Flights:
The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is generally not included in the trekking package.
Travel Insurance:
It's highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation in case of emergencies. This is typically not included in the package.
Personal Expenses:
Expenses such as additional snacks, drinks (beyond the provided meals), souvenirs, and tipping for guides and porters are not usually included.
Gear Rental:
If you need to rent trekking gear such as sleeping bags, down jackets, or trekking poles, this cost is typically not included in the package.
Additional Accommodation:
Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek is usually not included in the package.
Optional Side Trips:
Any additional side trips or activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary, such as side treks to nearby villages or attractions, are typically not included and may incur additional costs.

Complimentary

Makalu Base Camp Trek Map

Trip code
Package name	Makalu Base Camp Trekking
Duration	18
Max. elevation	4870 m
Level	DIFFICULT
Transportation	<div>All ground transportation by Car and Domestic flight.</div>
Accomodation	2 nights hotel in Kathmandu/18 nights during trek
Starts at	Kathmandu
Ends at	Kathmandu
Trip route	Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Num-Seduwa-Tashigaon-Khongma Danda-Dobate-Yangri Kharka-Langmale Kharka-Makalu Base Camp-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu
Cost	USD 2,200 per person