Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu

Makalu Base Camp Trek

18 days Tea houses and camping Strenuous

Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, challenging, and rewarding Himalayan adventures, taking trekkers into the pristine wilderness of Makalu Barun National Park in eastern Nepal. The trek leads to Makalu Base Camp (approximately 4,870 m), beneath Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world and one of the most striking peaks in the Himalaya.

The journey begins in the Arun River Valley, passing through traditional Sherpa villages, terraced hillsides, dense forests, and spectacular rhododendron landscapes. As the trail gains altitude, the scenery transforms into rugged alpine terrain, glacial valleys, and dramatic snow-covered mountains. A major highlight is crossing the high mountain passes of Khongma La, Shipton La, and Keke La, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

The final approach follows the spectacular Barun Valley, a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering cliffs, glaciers, and magnificent Himalayan summits. At base camp, trekkers experience unforgettable views of Makalu’s imposing south face and the untouched wilderness of the surrounding mountains.

Day-by-day itinerary

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Drive to Num (1,450m) - 4 hours drive. – You begin your journey with a scenic mountain flight offering views of eastern Himalayas before landing at Tumlingtar, followed by a rugged jeep drive through hills, terraced farms, and villages alongside the Arun River to reach Num, a beautiful ridge-top settlement.

The trail descends steeply through forests to the Arun River, crosses a suspension bridge, and then climbs gradually through small villages and cultivated fields to Seduwa, the gateway to Makalu Barun National Park.

You pass through checkpoints and ascend steadily along stone steps and forested ridges, enjoying views of rural life and lush greenery before arriving at the charming Sherpa village of Tashigaon.

This is a challenging uphill climb through dense forests of rhododendron and oak, with steep ascents and limited settlements, eventually reaching Khongma, a high-altitude stop with stunning mountain surroundings.

To adjust to the altitude, you take a short hike towards Khongma La, exploring nearby ridges and enjoying panoramic Himalayan views while allowing your body to adapt to thinner air.

This is one of the toughest yet most rewarding days as you cross three high passes with breathtaking alpine scenery, glacial lakes, and rugged terrain before descending to Dobate.

The trail descends through rhododendron forests and narrow valleys, following rivers and waterfalls before opening into wide grazing lands at Yangle Kharka.

You gradually ascend along the Barun Valley, with landscapes becoming more barren and dramatic, surrounded by towering peaks as you approach Langmale.

A rest and acclimatization day where you can explore the surrounding glacial terrain, enjoy close-up mountain views, and prepare your body for higher elevation ahead.

You trek through rocky moraines and alpine landscapes, finally reaching Makalu Base Camp with incredible views of surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Spend the day exploring the base camp area, hiking to nearby viewpoints, and enjoying spectacular close-up views of Mount Makalu and glaciers.

You retrace your route back down the valley, descending through alpine terrain and enjoying easier breathing as you return to Yangle Kharka.

The trail climbs gradually through forests and valleys, offering a different perspective of the landscapes as you head back toward Dobate.

You re-cross the high passes, taking in once more the dramatic mountain scenery before reaching Khongma.

A long descent through forests and ridges brings you back to the more vegetated lower regions and the welcoming village of Tashigaon.

You continue descending through terraced farmland and local settlements, experiencing the cultural richness of the region again.

The trail drops to the Arun River and climbs back up to Num, marking the end of your trekking journey.

After a scenic drive back to Tumlingtar, you take a return flight to Kathmandu, concluding your memorable Makalu Base Camp adventure.

What’s included

Included

  • All necessary Nation Park permit and Paperwork.
  • All necessary trekking transfers
  • The best local tea house accommodation during trekking.
  • Experienced license holder guide (English Speaking, first aid, eco-trained).
  • A Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are served in trekking itinerary days (An item at once).
  • Tea/Coffee or Himalayan Sea buckthorn juice in Breakfast
  • A complete first-aid medical kit (Handled by Guide/Sherpa)
  • All relevant fees, taxes and Levies
  • Trekking Maps and Trip Completion Certificate

Not included

  • International flight fares.
  • Nepal Visa Expenses and worldwide Airfare
  • Meals, Extra activities in city.
  • Accomodations besides trekking itinerary days.
  • Trekking Costs like Drinking Water, Soft & Hard Drinks, Juice, Phon Calls, Web Utilize, Battery, Charging, Clothing, Hot Shower, Gift, Extra Porters etc.
  • Individual Trekking Gears and Equipment. (Can be rented from Mt. Mate’s gear rental shop)
  • Individual Any Kinds of Health or Travel Insurance. (It is obligatory to decrease the conceivable cost in case of crisis clearing).
  • Costs emerges due to hindrance and delays within program schedule due to climate issues or Health problem issues.
  • Tipping to trekking crew members (Mandatory) and donating.
  • Anything besides in trekking includes.

Packing list

Clothes: Base layers, light warm and down jackets, trekking pants and t-shirts, socks, under garments, warm beanie, sun hats, buff, water cover, wind proof and warm gloves.
Shoes: Trekking boots, sneaker and slipper.
Trekking gears: Trekking bag, sleeping bag, trekking poles, crampons, head light, hot-water bottle, sun glass etc.
Sanitary: Shampoo, towels, toilet papers, tissues, tooth brush, tooth paste etc.
Health: Anti-sunburn cream, lip balm, nasal inhaler, balm, water purifier and mountain first aid kit and medicines.
Electronics: Cameras, cell phone with data pack, charger, power bank etc.
Documents: Original Passport, Nepali rupees for expenses.

Safety & permits

  • Makalu Barun National Park Permit - arranged by your guide before the trek begins
  • Local Municipality Permit (if applicable): Any required local entry or tourism fee will be confirmed and arranged by your trekking agency according to the trekking route and current regulations.
  • Ticketing: Monasteries, Museums and viewpoint entry ticketing can occur according to place of interest.
  • Licensed Guide: Trek with Certified licensed guide/sherpa through a government.
  • Health: Train with cardio, strength, endurance exercises and get a medical check-up, if necessary, before.
  • Insurance: Comprehensive health and travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage.
  • Altitude Safety: Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, eat well and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness
  • Weather: Follow your guide’s advice, use proper gear and be prepared for changing mountain weather.
  • Emergency Support: Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell or face any difficulty.

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