Important Information

Region
Makalu Region Treks
Duration
14 Days
Max Altitude
4900m
Best Season
March - November
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 4
Group Size
2 – 12 people
Transportation
Flight - Jeep

Makalu Base Camp trek is a journey to the world's 5th highest mountain, Makalu - (8,481m). This is a pure off-the-beaten path trek where experienced adventurers relish a challenge. Being one of the least trekked places in Nepal, this is a great trek with abundant rewards. The Makalu Base Camp trek lies between Nepal’s trekking regions of Everest and Kanchenjunga in the west and east respectively. This trek takes place in the Makalu Barun National Park, the eighth largest national park in Nepal. You will spot some of the rare wildlife including Red Panda during your trek. Besides that this trek offers you to view incredible peaks like Everest, Chamalang, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga. The hospitality of Sherpa people in the higher altitude is welcoming and friendly. Makalu Base Camp trek is a tea house base trek with all accommodation, guides, and meals are included. The best season to trek Makalu Base Camp is the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). This trek required two different permits of Makalu Barun National Park and Makalu rural Municipality.

Getting to Makalu Base Camp: 

You will take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to Num. After an overnight stay at the lodge in Num, the actual trek begins in the warm, terraced farmland of Rai village. The route mostly ascends through rhododendron forests (especially incredible in spring), alpine meadows, and, remote typical villages. When you trek higher you will reach Sherpa villages. Beyond the last villages of Tashi Gaon, you will only found teahouses for overnight stays. After 5 to 6 days trek from Tashi Goan will reach Makalu Base Camp at the height of 4,900 meters from sea level. You will spend one day on exploration around Base Camp. Enjoy the most picturesque view of Mt. Makalu (8463m), Lhotse (8414m), Everest (8848m), Baruntse (7152m), and several other peaks of the region.

Challenge of Makalu Base Camp Trek:

This trek is not that much challenging as the Sherpani Col Pass trek neither easy as the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Makalu Base Camp trek is about two week’s long pure adventure trip. Accommodation based on tea houses is basic and physical fitness is required to attempt this trek.

If you are looking for a different itinerary than the itinerary here, please Customize Your Trip. 

Your trip at a glance

14 days · highest 4,870 m

  1. Day 1 Arrival Kathmandu 1,324m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  2. Day 2 Fly to Tumlingter and drive to Sedhuwa 401m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  3. Day 3 Sedhuwa -Tashi Gaon 1,510m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  4. Day 4 TashiGaon - Kongma 2,070m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  5. Day 5 Khongma -Dobate(Mumbuk no lodge) 3,610m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  6. Day 6 Domabate -Shipton La -Yangri Kharka 3,557m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  7. Day 7 Yangri kharka -Langmale kharka 4,410m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  8. Day 8 Langmali-Makalu Base Camp Highest point 4,870m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  9. Day 10 Explore Makalu Base Camp Highest point 4,870m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  10. Day 11 Base Camp - Lamgmali Highest point 4,870m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  11. Day 12 Lamgmali -Khongma 3,760m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  12. Day 13 Khongma -Sedhuwa 1,510m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  13. Day 14 Seduwa drive to Tumlingter 401m

    Details for this day are confirmed with you before you travel.

  14. Day 15 Fly to kathmandu 1,324m

     

     

What's included 10 items

  • Arrivals and departure transport by car (We will collect you from the Kathmandu international airport) and transfer to Hotel.
  • Half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu (Boudhanath and Pasupatinath) with city guide and necessary transport.
  • 3 nights’ accommodation (2 persons per room) in Kathmandu in a 3* standard Hotel with breakfast.
  • Kathmandu - Tumlingtar – Kathmandu flight tickets.
  • All land transportations (a private car/bus)
  • Full Board Meal (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the whole trek.
  • Government licensed guide and a porter for two people.
  • Makalu Barun National Park permits and Municipility entry permits.
  • Group First Aid Kit.
  • HWW Company Duffle Bag for luggage

What's not included 11 items

  • Meals & drinks during the trek and in Kathmandu (unless stated otherwise under ‘The trip cost includes’)
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Travel/medical insurance
  • Emergency rescue evacuation
  • Phone calls
  • Internet
  • International air ticket
  • Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
  • If you’re forced to extend your trek due to bad weather or natural disaster circumstances, we are not liable to pay any compensation or otherwise be responsible for any expenses you may incur
  • Anything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’
  • Nepal entry visa Fee.

Route Map

Route map for Makalu Base Camp Trek

Useful Information

CHECKLISTS FOR MAKALU BASE CAMP TREK

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, some cash is highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators, then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)
  • Clothing (Layered clothes, windproof and waterproof jackets,  fleece pullovers, thermal base layers, hiking pants, shorts, headwear, footwear, and other items according to your needs)
  • Personal Items and Toiletries (First-Aid Kit, Iodine tablets or a UV purifier to treat water, Sun Protection)
  • Travel and Health Insurance
  • Trekking gear and equipment(if you have your own trekking gear and equipment, such as trekking poles, sleeping bag, and shoes, then you can bring them; else you can rent them in Thamel, Kathmandu). Read more for trekking gears and peak climbing gears.

Guiding, Food, and Lodging
Trekking in Nepal, all trekking supplies - Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. The rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently asked questions

Can I customize the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Yes, you can personalize your Makalu Base Camp Trek, and add any changes to the pre-built itinerary. Whether you want to stop and spend a day or night in a specific location or tea house or you want to add a side trek, just let us know what you're looking for, and we’ll be happy to accommodate your wishes: “Customize Your Trip.”

How much does the Makalu Base Camp trek cost?

One can do the Makalu Base Camp trek starting from USD 2150 (all inclusive price) per person and the cost differs depending on many factors including the season or time one chooses to trek, the mode of transportation, accommodations and lodging and many more.

Do I need a guide for the Makalu Base Camp trek?

Yes, although a guide is not compulsory, it is highly recommended to have one for your own safety and smooth travel. A guide will provide valuable insights into the local culture, history, and landscapes, and they can assist with any issues, such as altitude sickness or changing plans due to weather-related issues.

Will I get altitude sickness during the Makalu Base Camp trek?

Normally, altitude sickness can occur in regions above 2,500 meters, and the Makalu Base Camp trek takes you to an elevation of 4900 meters, so you might get some symptoms of altitude sickness. Staying hydrated, eating well, and ascending gradually are the best ways to prevent altitude sickness. If you experience symptoms like dizziness or headaches, inform your guide immediately so they can follow the necessary protocols.

What are the gear and equipment that I should have for Makalu Base Camp Trek?

For the Makalu Base Camp trek, the essentials include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothes, a sleeping bag, water bottles, sunscreen, a hat, and a small first-aid kit. Be sure to pack light but adequately for the weather conditions and trek duration. Read our blog for more details regarding trekking gear and equipment.

What are the necessary permits for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area Permit and the Makalu Rural Municipality Permit are the two important permits you need for the Makalu Base Camp trek, and these permits can be obtained from the Nepal Immigration Department through registered and authorized trekking agencies.

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