Makalu Base Camp Trek – 22 Days

€ 1650

Overview

Makalu Base Camp trek offers you an adventure of a lifetime. Makalu Base Camp Trek Makalu Trek is a physically challenging trek that surely brings out your spirit of adventure. Walking upon the most rugged terrain on earth, relishing the unparallel natural beauty of the Makalu region and marveling at the ecological diversity are some of the wonderful treats of the Makalu Base Camp trek.

Makalu-Barun National Park, a nearly isolated 1500-km2 area of Eastern Nepal. This remote terrain stretches east from Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) National Park, between the high plateau of Tibet and the deep subtropical gorge carved by the Arun River. There are spectacular views of rugged Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Makalu (8463m), fifth highest in the world, Mt. Chamlang (7319 m) and Mt. Baruntse (7129m). Within 40 kms, these high peaks descend to the Arun River at 670m. The Makalu-Barun Valley provides stunning contrasts, where high waterfalls cascade into deep gorges, craggy rocks rise from lush green forests, and colorful flowers bloom beneath white snow peaks.

Makalu region there are over 3000 species of flowering plants, 440 species of birds, and 75 species of mammals, including the endangered Clouded Leopard, Red Panda and Musk Deer, have been recorded. This remarkable biodiversity is considered to be of global significance, and provides a living laboratory for international scientific research.

The Barun Valley is part of a huge international protected area under an agreement between Nepal and China. The Makalu Base Camp trek crosses several high passes as it climbs into the remote Barun Valley at the foot of Makalu, the world’s fifth highest mountain, providing a splendid venue for more adventurous nature lovers.

Makalu Base Camp trek is a purely camping trek as no lodges are available along the route. The Makalu Base Camp trek presents you views of the south face of Makalu, Everest and Lhotse Peaks.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive in Kathmandu International Airport

Real Travel airport representative transfer to the hotel in Kathmandu and stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing

City sightseeing in and around Kathmandu valley. (Kathmandu, Bhaktapur & Patan). Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (510m.) takes about 45 minutes.

On the same day, you begin your trek from Tumlingtar to Maney Bhanjyang which takes about five and half hours. The trail ascends all the way through forest of rhododendrons and sal trees. En route, you pass a few villages. Maney Bhanjyang is a ridge inhabited by people. It is gently surrounded by lush green forest and is a grazing field for cattle and fodder used by the local people. Stay overnight at camp in Maney Bhanjyang.

Day 4 : Trek from Maney Bhanjyang to Chilchile (1830m.)

The trail ascends through forest of rhododendrons and sal trees for about three hours where you will ultimately walk over a flat trail that brings you to Chilchile. This is a small village mainly inhabited by Gurungs and other communities as well. There is a government school where locals educate their children. You will find some good tea houses around here. Stay overnight at camp in Chilchile.

Day 5 : Trek from Chilchile to Num (1500 m.)

The trail ascends for about 2 hours and then descends by a small perennial river where you will walk on a flat trail for about one hour to reach Num. Num is a beautiful village which is enriched with many tea houses and also has telephone facilities. Stay overnight at camp in Num.

Day 6 : Trek from Num to Seduwa (1510m.)

The trail descends steeply for about 2 and half hours until you come to a big river named Neguwa Khola. The trail passes over the suspension bridge and ascends through forest and a few traditional villages. People of this area are mainly engaged in agriculture and crops grown here are paddy, millet, potatoes and vegetables depending on the season. There is a check post and local office of the Makalu Conservation Area. Stay overnight at camp in Seduwa.

Day 7 : Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon (2070 m.)

The trail slightly ascends but the major part of the hike is flat and easy through the bushes. While walking, you will see villages at a far distance. Tashigaon, surrounded by verdant forest, is a big Sherpa village. You will find prayer flags fluttering in the wind whispering odes of prayers for the dead and forgotten in and around the village. The camping spot in this village is really a praiseworthy site. Stay overnight at camp in Tashigaon.

Day 8 : Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma la (3560m.)

The trail ascends throughout the day and you will walk through forest of Rhododendrons and Sal trees until you reach your destination. Kongma la is a ridge and there is only one tea house here. This is also a perfect place for camping. It snows here even during the spring months of March and April. Stay overnight at camp in Khongma La.

Day 9 : Trek from Khongma la to Mumbuk (3550m.)

The trail ascends and then following a rugged path you reach a beautiful lake named “Kalo Pokhari” at the height of (4004 m). Leaving this lake, you go downhill until you reach Mumbuk. It is a serene camping spot surrounded by green forests. Stay overnight at camp in Mumbuk.

Day 10 : Trek from Mumbuk to Yangle Kharka (3600m.)

The hike today is a bit adventurous and strenuous. The trail passes for about 3 hours through a landscape which is very prone to landslides. The Barun River running through the trail adds more dimensions to the trek with its spectacular views of Mt. Tutse (Peak 6) 6739m and Peak 7 (6185m.). Stay overnight at camp in Yangle Kharka.

Day 11 : Trek from Yangle Kharka to Yak Kharka (4810m.)

The trail ascends through grasslands and forest. You can enjoy the majestic peaks such as Mt. Tutse (Peak 6) 6739m, Peak 7 (6185m), Isuwa La (5340m) and many other unnamed mountains and peaks. Yak Kharka is a grazing field. Stay overnight at camp in Yak Kharka.

Day 12 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4812m.)

The hike passes through a flat trail and will descend to a Perennial River. As you reach Makalu Base Camp, you will be mesmerized by the views of Mt. Makalu (8463m), Baruntse (7152m), Kali Himal (6985m), Chamlang (7390m) and Makalu II (7640 m), etc. Stay overnight at camp in Makalu Base Camp.

Day 13 : A day for Rest at Makalu Base Camp.

You will enjoy the whole day in the base camp. From here you will have spectacular views of different mountains and peaks. You can also hike to the Baruntse Base Camp to enjoy the scenery and view this camp has to offer. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 14 : Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka (3600 m.).

This takes about four and a half hours. After ascending for a few hours, the trail moves along a flat level path and at the end it descends to reach Yangle Kharka. En route, you walk through a rocky forest path with views of green hills and huge stones at some distance. Stay overnight at camp in Yangle Kharka.

Day 15 : Trek from Yangle Kharka to Dobato

The trail ascends for almost three hours through the same landscape and possibility of landslides. You then have to trek uphill passing through jungles all the way to Dobato. This is not a village but a camping place only. Here, you find small bushes of rhododendrons. Stay overnight at camp in Dobato.

Day 16 : Trek from Dobato to Tashigaon (2070m.)

The trail descends steeply to Khongma la via Kali Pokhari through a dense jungle. You again walk along a downhill path all the way to Tashigaon. Stay overnight at camp in Tashigaon.

Day 17 : Trek from Tashigaon to Num (1490m.)

The trail steeply descends in the beginning which changes to a steep ascent before reaching Num. You pass through small forests of bamboo and small villages. Stay overnight at camp in Num.

Day 18 : Trek from Num to Maney Bhanjyang (1158m.

The trail ascends by starting through the forest and will gently descend in the second half of the day. Stay overnight at camp in Maney Bhanjyang.

Day 19 : Trek from Maney Bhanjyang to Tumlingtar

Trek from Maney Bhanjyang to Tumlingtar takes about five and half hours. Stay overnight at camp in Tumlingtar.

Day 20 : Fly out from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu.

Fly out from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 21 : Recreation & shopping day.

Stay overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 22 : Transfer to the Airport for final departure.

(Fly out from Kathmandu)

If the above mentioned itinerary does not meet your requirements, please feel free to make your own, we are happy to create personalized travel plans tailored to your preferences and specifications.

FAQ's

Are permits required for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Yes, trekkers need the following permits:

  • Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card

How long does the Makalu Base Camp Trek take?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek typically takes around 22 days. This duration includes travel to and from the starting point, acclimatization days, and time to explore the base camp area.

When is the best time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The best times for the Makalu Base Camp Trek are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and ideal trekking conditions.

How challenging is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered very challenging due to its high altitude, remote location, and strenuous trekking days. Good physical fitness, prior high-altitude trekking experience, and proper preparation are essential.

What types of accommodations are available?

Accommodations along the Makalu Base Camp Trek include basic tea houses and lodges. In some remote areas, camping may be necessary. These accommodations offer basic amenities such as meals and lodging, but facilities can be very basic.

How do I get to the starting point of the trek?

The trek typically starts from Tumlingtar, which is accessible by a flight from Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar, trekkers drive to the trailhead and start their trek.

Is there internet access on the trek?

Internet access is very limited on the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Some tea houses may offer Wi-Fi, but the connection is often slow and unreliable. It is best to expect minimal connectivity during the trek.

Is the Makalu Base Camp Trek safe?

The trek is generally safe, but trekkers should be cautious of changing weather conditions, trail conditions, and altitude-related risks. Having a knowledgeable guide, proper preparation, and adequate travel insurance are essential for a safe trekking experience.

What essentials should I pack for the trek?

  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Warm clothing layers (fleece, down jacket)
  • Lightweight and breathable clothing for daytime
  • Rain gear (jacket, pants)
  • Sleeping bag (suitable for cold temperatures)
  • Trekking poles
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Personal toiletries
  • Camping gear (if required)

Can I join a group for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Certainly! We regularly organize group treks to Makalu Base Camp Trek. You’re more than welcome to join us for this adventure.

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    The Trip Cost Includes

    • Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)

    • Transportation to and from!!

    • Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels

    • Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip

    • Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don’t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)

    • First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)

    • All the required permits and paperwork

    The Trip Cost Excludes

    • International Airfare

    • Visa Charges

    • Hotel Expenses(In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)

    • Your travel and medical insurance

    • Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc

    • Food and accommodations in Kathmandu

    • Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency

    • Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.