Makalu Base Camp Trek
Explore Makalu Base Camp Trek – Adventure in Nepal’s Eastern Himalayas!!
Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure on the fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu, in the eastern part of Nepal. Makalu Base Camp is situated in Makalu Barun National Park, in the east of Nepal. It offers stunning views of the eastern Himalayas, including Mt. Makalu, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Chamlang, Mt. Baruntse, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and other Himalayas on the eastern side of Nepal.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek crosses several high passes, including the challenging Shipton La Pass (4,125 m) and Keke La Pass (4,217 m). The trail passes through Arun Valley and Barun Valley, where you can experience the unique culture and traditions of Sherpa and Rai villages. By exploring the rich biodiversity in Makalu Barun National Park, you will reach Makalu Base Camp.
Trip Overview
Trip code: MBC 100 
Duration: 19 Days 
Max Altitude: Makalu Base Camp (4870 m) 
Transportaion: Flight / Private Vehicle 
Accomodation: Hotel / Lodge or Teahouse 
Start: Kathmandu
End: Kathmandu 
Meals: European Plan Outline Itinerary
Kathmandu (Arrival) – Transfer to Hotel (Private Transfer)
Kathmandu (1400m)Kathmandu – Tumlingtar (Fly – Flight Transfer) – Num (Drive – Private Transfer)
Tumlingtar (1980 m; 50 mins- fly) Num (1040 m; 6 hrs)Num – Seduwa
Seduwa (1500 m; 6 hrs)Seduwa – Tashi Gaon
Tashi Gaon (2100 m; 5 hrs)Tashi Gaon – Khongma Danda
Khongma Dada (3500 m; 7 hrs)Khongma Danda
Khongma Danda (3500 m)Khongma Danda – Dobate
Dobate (3600 m; 6 hrs)Dobate – Yangla Kharka
Yangla Kharka (3557 m; 7 hrs)Yangla Kharka – Langmale Kharka
Langmale Kharka (4410 m; 6 hrs)Langmale Kharka – Makalu Base Camp
Makalu Base Camp (4870 m; 6 hrs)Makalu Base Camp
Makalu Base Camp (4870 m)Makalu Base Camp – Yangla Kharka
Yangla Kharka (3557 m; 7 hrs)Yangla Kharka – Dobate
Dobate (3600 m; 7 hrs)Dobate – Khongma Danda
Khongma Danda (3500 m; 6 hrs)Khongma Danda – Tashi Gaon
Tashi Gaon (2100 m; 5 hrs)Tashi Gaon – Num
Num (1040 m; 7 hrs)Num – Tumlingtar (Drive – Private Transfer)
Tumlingtar (1980 m; 6 hrs)Tumlingtar – Kathmandu (Fly – Flight Transfer)
Kathmandu (1400 m; 50 min)Kathmandu (Departure)
Price Inclusion
- Airport transfers (Domestic/ International) on a tourist vehicle
- Domestic flight ticket (Kathmandu / Tumlingtar / Kathmandu)
- Private tourist vehicle (Tumlingtar / Num / Tumlingtar)
- Entire accommodation during the trek – 2 nights at hotel in Kathmandu, and 17 nights in lodges/guesthouse during trek to Makalu Base Camp
- Hotel breakfast during the stay at Kathmandu
- Experienced, government licensed, English-speaking or another language trekking guide
- All necessary permits for Makalu Barun National Park Permit and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 pax)
- All government taxes and administrative expenses
- Local staff insurances
Price Exclusion
- International flight tickets and Nepal Entry Visa
- Personal travel insurance
- Any meals during the Trek
- Any expenses of a personnel nature, e.g., telephone calls, laundry, table drinks, etc.
- Any Tips to Guides, Drivers, and Trekking Staffs
- Any entrance fees for cameras and video cameras at the monuments
- Any other services not mentioned above
- Cost of any emergency evacuation, strikes, etc.
Detail Itinerary
Expand AllKathmandu (Arrival) – Transfer to Hotel (Private Transfer)
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, our representative will be waiting at the airport for your welcome. Then board a private vehicle and be transferred to your hotel. Check into your hotel and rest after your journey.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore ancient temples and vibrant markets and experience the unique atmosphere of Nepalese urban life.
Kathmandu – Tumlingtar (Fly – Flight Transfer) – Num (Drive – Private Transfer)
Your journey start with an early morning flight to Tumlingtar. With the breathtaking views of the mountains, hills and landscapes, you will arrive at Tumlingtar airport. Upon your arrival at Tumlingtar, you will drive for 6 hours to reach Num. The ride is full of greenery filling up your landscape and some glimpse of Himalayas from Num village.
Num – Seduwa
Your trek starts with a descending trail through the forest and fields to reach Barun river. After crossing a wooden bridge, you will enter the Makalu Barun National Park area. Then, you will walk through dense forest of Juniper and rhododendron passing few villages to reach Sedwa.
Seduwa – Tashi Gaon
After having your breakfast, you will ascend towards ridges bounded by two rivers; Isuwa Khola and Kuswa Khola on each side. You will cross the bidge over Isuwa Khola and pass several small settlements and forest. After few hours of walk through the villages and paddy flieds, you will reach Tashi Gaon. Tashi Gaon is a small Sherpa Village which offers a magnificent view of Himalayas.
Tashi Gaon – Khongma Danda
You will have a toughest trek today as you take steep ascends on the way to Khongma Danda. You will ascend to stone stairs and come across few lakes and fields with yaks and sheep cattle grazing in the fields. Your trails also pass through the forest and a stream to reach the top of ridges.
Then, you will have a few hours of walk to reach Khongma Danda, from where you will get the beautiful view of Mt. Chamlang and other peaks.
Khongma Danda
Today, you will be spending your day in Khongma Danda. You can relax and explore the village. You can visit nearby Buddhist monasteries and learn about Sherpa Culture and the way of their life.
Khongma Danda – Dobate
Leaving the Khongma Danda, you will follow the trail towards Dobate by crossing 4 passes on the way. You will start your trek by climbing the ridge over Kauma La Pass, then head towards Keke La Pass. After crossing these passes, you will follow the trail to the foothill of Shipton Pass.
You will walk along the ridge towards Tutu La Pass and after few hours of trek, you will reach Dobate. Upon reaching Dobate, you will mesmerize with the views of Mt. Chamlang, Peak 6, Peak 7, and other Himalayas.
Dobate – Yangla Kharka
You will follow the trail passing through the dense forest of rhododendron to cross Barun river and trek towards Yangla Kharka. You will cross the yaks grazing in the fields to reach Yangla Kharka.
Yangla Kharka – Langmale Kharka
You will start your walk through lush Himalaayn forest and cross the suspension bridge over small streams to reach Merek and then walk with the mesmerizing views of Himalayas and walk on moraines and pass small Himalayan villages to reach Langmale Kharka.
Langmale Kharka – Makalu Base Camp
Today, you will follow the steep trail alongside of Barun river and walk through icy glacier and ridges to reach Shershong. After an hours or two hours of walk, you will finally reach Makalu Base Camp with the alluring views of Mt. Makalu (world’s fifth highest mountain) and other snow peaks.
Makalu Base Camp
You will explore the Makalu Base Camp. It is a barren landscape with Barun glacier beyond it. You will witness the alluring panorama of Makalu from south face, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Kanchenjunga and other Himalayas in eastern Nepal. You can also do a short hike to Baruntse Base Camp.
Makalu Base Camp – Yangla Kharka
After exploring the Makalu Base Camp, you will flow the trail towards Yangle Kharka. After few hours of ascending. Your trail will be descended and passes through small villages to reach Yangla Kharka.
Yangla Kharka – Dobate
By following the Barun river, your trail passes through rocky ridges and small streams to reach Dobate. You will witness the beauty of nature on Makalu Barun National Park, during the trek towards Dobate.
Dobate – Khongma Danda
You will follow the trail passing through the forest of rhododendron, juniper and fir to reach Mumbuk. After reaching there you will cross the Tutu La Pass, Shipton La Pass, Keke La Pass and Kauma La Pass to reach Khongma Danda.
Khongma Danda – Tashi Gaon
After having your breakfast, you will walk through the dense forest and cross few lakes on the way to Tashi Gaon. The trail is steep rocky trails, as you move towards beautiful Sherpa Village, Tashi Gaon.
Tashi Gaon – Num
Today, you will have a long but easy walk towards Num village. You will pass through the isolated valley of the Barun River through small village. You will cross the suspension bridge to reach Seduwa and then you will follow the trail passing through the dense forest of rhododendron and bamboo and cross Arun River as, you exit from Makalu Barun National Park.
Num – Tumlingtar (Drive – Private Transfer)
You will end your trekking journey by driving towards Tumlingtar. The ride is full of greenery filling up your landscape and some glimpse of Himalayas on a rough road towards Tumlingtar. Upon reaching Tumlingtar, you can explore the village.
Tumlingtar – Kathmandu (Fly – Flight Transfer)
Early morning, you will have a scenic flight towards Kathmandu. With the breathtaking views of the mountains, hills and landscapes, you will arrive at Kathmandu domestic airport. Upon your arrival at Kathmandu, you will be escorted towards your hotel. Rest of day is free and you can explore some of the city’s cultural and historical areas.
Kathmandu (Departure)
Depending on your flight schedule, our representative will escort you towards the airport. Before your fight schedule starts, you may have some free time in Kathmandu for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Why you'll love this trip
- Breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mt. Makalu, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Chamlang, Mt. Baruntse, and Mt. Kanchenjunga.
- Experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people in Sherpa and Rai villages.
- Engage with the local communities and learn about their traditional way of life
- Crossing challenging high mountain passes, Shipton La Pass and Keke La Pass.
- The pristine wilderness of Makalu Barun National Park, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity.
- A diverse range of landscapes, from lush rhododendron and bamboo forests to alpine meadows and rocky moraines.
- Encounter a variety of wildlife, including the elusive Red Panda, the Himalayan Thar, and various species of pheasants.
When To Visit
The spring (March to June) or autumn (September to November) seasons are the most suitable times to start the Makalu Base Camp trek. The weather is generally stable during these times, providing clear skies and ideal trekking conditions. The spring season showcases blooming rhododendrons and lush landscapes, while the autumn season provides stunning views with the added advantage of post-monsoon clarity. Avoiding the monsoon season is crucial, as heavy rains may lead to slippery trails, landslides, and limited visibility, making the trek challenging and potentially unsafe.
Cannot see your date or not satisfied with the itinerary? We may be able to add new trip dates.
Contact UsElevation Chart
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FAQs for Makalu Base Camp Trek
How difficult is the Makalu Base Camp trek?
The Makalu Base Camp trek is considered challenging and suitable for experienced trekkers. The trail involves steep ascents, descents, and high-altitude terrain, requiring good physical fitness and acclimatization. Trekkers should be prepared for long days of walking and be comfortable camping in remote areas.
What permits are required for the Makalu Base Camp trek?
Trekkers need to obtain several permits for the Makalu Base Camp trek, including the Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. Additionally, a restricted area permit is required since the trail passes through areas close to the Nepal-Tibet border.
Does the Makalu Base Camp trail have tea houses or lodges?
Unlike popular trekking routes in the Everest or Annapurna regions, the Makalu Base Camp trail has fewer tea houses and lodges. Trekkers often need to rely on camping arrangements, and it’s advisable to trek with a guided expedition or hire a support staff for a more organized experience.
What should be included in the packing list for the Makalu Base Camp trek?
Essential items for the Makalu Base Camp trek include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, trekking poles, a high-altitude medical kit, and a water purification system. Additionally, packing layers for changing weather conditions, a good-quality backpack, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes are recommended.
