Makalu Base Camp Trek

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Makalu Base Camp Trek
  • Duration 22 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 4,870
  • Group Size 2-6
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time March-May, Septmeber-November

About Makalu Base Camp Trek

Adventurous Trek through the remote and wild region of Eastern Nepal to reach the bottom of the 5th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu, (8463 meters) the fifth highest mountain in the world. Your trekking trail starts from Tumlingtar and runs through Chichila, Num, Makalu Barun National Park and the Buffer Zone area up to Mt. Makalu Base Camp. From the flatland of the Terai, over high passes and down lush valleys into rugged terrain of snow and rock, dotted with isolated villages, like Sherpa, Tamang and Gurung. Mt. Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the most challenging, yet incredibly rewarding trekking routes in Nepal. The lower reaches of the trail are renowned for their lushness with verdant rhododendron forests whereas the upper reaches of the trail comprise polished granite cliffs capped by hanging glaciers, overflowing with waterfalls. The 21-day Makalu Base Camp Trek is an ideal choice for avid trekkers and nature enthusiasts who seek solace and tranquillity in pristine natural habitats and those who wish to avoid crowds. To grab the trip pleasure and make it precious, you can join the trip of TOP OF THE WORLD ADVENTURE.

Trip Highlights

  • World Heritage Site Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Temple.
  • Fine Art and Gallery of Hindu and Buddhist culture in Patan.
  • Spectacular views of the snow-covered giant Himalayan peaks including Mt. Everest, Makalu, etc.
  • Trekking through eye-catching villages, and various communities with a majority of Rai, Limbu and Sherpa.
  • Exploring the valley of Arun and the riverside.
  • Last Minute Shopping and Refreshment in Thamel Kathmandu With Typical Nepali Cuisine.

A Look at the Tour
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most remote and exciting treks. It takes you through beautiful, untouched nature and gives you a chance to be alone. The trail starts in Tumlingtar and goes through the lower Arun Valley. It goes through beautiful rhododendron forests, high alpine meadows, and remote Sherpa villages. The views of some of the world's highest peaks, like Makalu (8,485m), Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse, get more dramatic as trekkers go higher. The last stop, Makalu Base Camp, is at the base of Mount Makalu, which is the fifth-highest mountain in Nepal. The way back is the same as the way there, so trekkers can see the changing landscape from a different angle.

You can now book the Makalu Base Camp Trek for trips in the spring, summer, or fall of 2025.

Why Go on the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
If you want to hike in the Himalayas in a less crowded and more immersive way, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is perfect for you. This trek is different from the more commercialized ones because it lets you fully experience nature and culture. The trail goes through Makalu Barun National Park, where you can see amazing views of tall peaks like Makalu, Everest, and Chamlang. You can also see plants and animals that are only found in this park. To learn more about other cultures, trekkers walk through remote villages where Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan people live. This gives them a look at traditional ways of life that haven't been changed. It's a great choice for experienced trekkers who want to explore, be alone, and feel more connected to the mountains.

Price of the Makalu Base Camp Trek
The price of the Makalu Base Camp Trek depends on how many days you stay, what kind of lodging you choose (camping or a teahouse), and how much help you get (guided or fully supported with porters and cooks). Camping accommodations, a guide, permits, meals, and transportation are all included in our standard package. If you ask, you can also get luxury or custom packages. Please get in touch with us for more information on prices and discounts for groups.

What Will Happen on the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Because it is so far away, at a high altitude, and has few roads, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the hardest treks in Nepal. Trekkers should be ready to camp most nights because there aren't many basic teahouses in the lower regions. The trip includes long days of walking, averaging 6 to 8 hours per day, and a lot of climbing, with Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 meters. One of the best parts is crossing high-altitude passes and getting a close-up view of the beautiful south face of Makalu. Trekkers will see a mix of subtropical forests, alpine land, and land that used to be covered in glaciers.

This trek is perfect for experienced trekkers who want to explore untouched nature, go off the beaten path, and have a real Himalayan wilderness experience.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Starts from: Kathmandu Ends to: Kathmandu
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As soon as your plane hits the tarmac of Tribhuwan International Airport, TOP OF THE WORLD ADVENTURE offices representative and driver will be on standby to meet and greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel for the 21 days trek in Nepal to Makalu base camp. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel, and after going to your rooms and refreshing yourself you will be briefed about your daily activities. The rest of your time is free to move around the neighborhood and get familiar with your surroundings before you go on 21 days adventurous trekking.

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Meals: Dinner
  • Accommodation: Kathmandu Hotel
  • Max Altitude: 1980 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You will start your trail early in the morning and head towards Num right after  breakfast. A moderately paced walk through the picturesque villages and lush mountain forests will take you to Num. A ridge line with great views on both side and perched on the end, this is Num for you. Overnight in Num

  • Max Altitude: 1560 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After having breakfast, you will follow a steep descent through forests and terraced farms which takes you to Barun River. You will cross the river and follow an equally steep ascent up the other side again. Often quite hot - the forest on the valleys offer a bit of shade. This is where Makalu Barun National Park begins and where you register our permits. You camp right at the top of the village. Stay overnight in Seduwa

  • Max Altitude: 1500 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You start your today’s trail with a ascend the ridge bounded by the Ipsuwa Khola on the west and Kasuwa Khola to the east. Crossing the hillside through quiet villages and passing by small paddy fields, you reach the exotic village of Tashi Gaon. Once there, you are surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan panorama. Stay overnight in Tashigaon

  • Max Altitude: 2100 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After having you start your trek, this will be a bit of a tough day as you have to walk on a steep trail in higher elevation. You will ascend through forests to a stream and then onto a ridge. From here the trail gets even steeper and passes a Kharka (grazing land) and finally follows a series of rough stone stairs and small lakes ascending to the top of the ridge. From here it’s a short way down to Khongma Danda. Stay overnight in Khongma Danda

  • Max Altitude: 3500 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The day off will allow some bodily rest before you take on crossing of the Shipton La the next day. For those who wish to explore the nearby surrounding can walk around the area. You will get a chance to experience Nepali culture through a walk. Stay overnight in Khongma Danda

  • Max Altitude: 3500 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today you climb towards the summit of the Shipton La (pass) which takes a few hours to reach. After the lake Kalo Pokhari (3930m), pass over the Keke La at 4,170m.  You can see the breath taking views of Chamlang (7321m), Peak 6 (6,524m) and Peak 7 (6,758m). After crossing the Keke La pass, you descend through the beautiful valley to Dobate. Stay overnight in Donate

  • Max Altitude: 3,800 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast, you start your trail and today you pass through the rhododendron forest which leads to the Barun River and the upper reaches of the valley. You should be very careful during the first two hours of trek as the trail is steep and arduous. You then take a pleasant walk, slowly gaining altitude until you arrive at Yangri Kharka situated at the base of the valley. Stay overnight at Yangri Kharka.

  • Max Altitude: 3557 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Following a moderate walk to the valley, you pass through yak pastures, lush forests and boulder fields. The valley walls toyour imposingly above us during the start of the trek. You pass Merek as you make our way further up and notice a significant rise in the scenic Himalayan views. Stay overnight in Langmale Kharka.

  • Max Altitude: 4410 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today is the day you make it to the Base Camp. From Langmale Kharka you make our way up to Shershong and eventually to Makalu Base Camp. The trail is flat with icy glaciers and snow clad mountains accompanying us. Mount Makalu comes into view as you approach Shershong. As you make your way to the camp, you get to soak in the majestic Himalayan panorama surrounding us. Stay overnight at Makalu Base Camp.

  • Max Altitude: 4870 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The Base Camp is a rocky barren place with the large Barun Glacier beyond it. From here you can see the magnificent south face of Makalu and the complete panorama of Everest and Lhotse. You can explore the surrounding lakes, glaciers and go for a short trek up where you may celebrate our accomplishment at the camp itself. Stay overnight at Makalu Base Camp

  • Max Altitude: 4870 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You descend down from the base camp and take your last glimpse of Makalu before turning the corner and heading back. On your way down, you pass through Shershong, Langmale Kharka, Merek and descend down the valley finally stopping at Yangri Kharka. Stay overnight at Yangri Kharka

  • Max Altitude: 3,557 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

From Yangri Kharka you descend through rock falls, green forests and valley, making your way towards Donate. You follow the river banks of Barun as you descend down the trail. Stay overnight at Donate.

  • Max Altitude: 3,800 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You begin the trek with steep climb from Donate to Mumbuk (Nambuk) and through a forest of firs and rhododendrons. You then cross the Keke La, Tutu La (Shipton’s Pass) and Kauma La en route. Next, you descend to Khongma Danda again. Stay overnight in Khongma Danda.

  • Max Altitude: 3,500 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

The trek continues with frequent long and steep descent cutting through the hillsides. The trail takes you through thick forests and finally making it to the indigenous Sherpa village of Tashigaon. Stay overnight in Tashigaon

  • Max Altitude: 2,100 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You retrace your steps as you exit the Makalu Barun National Park and descend down to the Barun River. You then cross the hillside and come across villages and settlements as you move further down finally stopping at Seduwa again. Stay overnight at Seduwa

  • Max Altitude: 1,500 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

You leave Seduwa and trek through lush forests towards Num. The trail goes up and down and passes through dense forests and Sherpa villages as you move downwards. Stay overnight at Num

  • Max Altitude: 1,560 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Again you retrace our footsteps to Chichira from where you can savor the glorious vista of Mount Makalu for the last time. The final return leg of the trek will see you overnight at Tumlingtar, ready for an early departure to Kathmandu the following day. Stay overnight at Tumlingtar.

  • Max Altitude: 291 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, you fly back to Kathmandu after your long trek in the mountains. You can rest and relax throughout the day at our hotel or get in touch with our loved ones. In the evening you celebrate your successful journey to the Makalu base camp and back with a farewell dinner by TOP OF THE WORLD ADVENTURE. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Kathmandu Hotel

Today After having breakfast, you will visit the Kathmandu Valley in Private Vehicle. You will have Lunch and visit UNESCO Heritage site in Kathmandu Valley like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath Temple, Swyambhunath (Monkey Temple), etc. Our professional English-speaking guide will explain about the history, culture, etc. about the places you visited. At the same time you can visit to thamel shop for some last minutes shopping. Overnight stay at Kathmandu Hotel.

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Kathmandu Hotel

Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! TOP OF THE WORLD ADVENTURE representative will drop you off at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home, you have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal and Say farewell to Nepal and its amazing people, mountains and nature. Until the next time!

  • Max Altitude: 1300 m
  • Meals: Breakfast
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Route Map

Makalu Base Camp Trek Map

Altitude Graph

Makalu Base Camp Trek Graph

Makalu Base Camp Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport transfers (pick-up and drop-off) are included in the price.
  • Domestic flights (from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and back)
  • Permit and TIMS card for Makalu Barun National Park
  • A certified trekking guide who speaks English
  • knowledgeable porter (one porter for every two hikers)
  • Every meal—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—during the hike





 

Excludes

  • Visa fees for Nepal
  • Travel insurance that includes coverage for emergency evacuation and high altitude trekking
  • Personal hiking equipment, such as clothing, shoes, and a sleeping bag
  • Drinks (alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and bottled water while trekking)
  • Advice for porters, guides, and support personnel
  • Personal costs (laundry, charging, Wi-Fi, etc.)
  • Costs of emergency rescue or evacuation, if necessary

Add-ons and Options

Upgrade your Makalu Base Camp Trekexperience with better accommodations and services. This add-on focuses on making your trek more comfortable and luxurious. 

  • Luxurious Upgrade: Better teahouses, gourmet meals, and porter service.
  • Dedicated Porter: Each trekker has a dedicated porter to carry their luggage, allowing for lighter daypacks.
  • Cultural Add-on: Attend  cultural performance with costumes and music
  • Photography Focus: A photography guide goes along with the trek, offering advice and itinerary adjustments for the best photos.

Additional Info

Permits for the Trek to Makalu Base Camp

  • To embark on the Makalu Base Camp Trek, you will require the following permits:
  • To enter the protected area of the Makalu-Barun region, one must have a Makalu Barun National Park entry permit.
  • A TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) is required for all trekkers in Nepal.

Before your trek begins, you can obtain these permits in Kathmandu. Our package includes all necessary permit fees, and our staff will help you obtain them.

 

Trek Difficulty to Makalu Base Camp

One of Nepal's more difficult and isolated treks is the Makalu Base Camp Trek, which is best suited for seasoned hikers or those in top physical shape.

This trek is longer, more remote, and lacks extensive infrastructure, necessitating camping rather than teahouses, even though it is not as commercially popular as Everest or Annapurna treks.

Among the main physical difficulties are:

  • Trekking on rough and steep terrain for five to eight hours every day

  • Over 5,000 meters in elevation (Base Camp at 4,870 meters, with optional day hikes higher)

  • Getting around in a remote area without easy access to amenities

  • Dense forests, steep climbs, and river crossings

Success requires mental toughness, physical stamina, and previous multi-day trekking experience.

Altitude Fatigue

Altitude sickness is a serious risk on the Makalu Base Camp route, just like it is on any high-altitude hike. Some camps are located above 3,500m to 4,800m, requiring adequate acclimatization, and the ascent is gradual but steady.

To lessen the possibility of altitude sickness:

  • Observe the schedule for the gradual ascent.

  • Drink plenty of water while hiking.

  • Steer clear of cigarettes and alcohol.

  • Pay attention to your body and report any symptoms as soon as possible.

  • Add acclimatization days (these are part of our schedule for safety).

Typical signs to look out for include:

  • A headache

  • Vomiting or feeling queasy

  • Weariness or lightheadedness

  • Appetite loss

  • Breathlessness

  • Sleep disturbance

In addition to carrying first aid kits and basic altitude medication, our guides have received training in altitude response protocols. In severe situations, emergency evacuation protocols will be adhered to.

Makalu Base Camp Trek FAQs

This trek is quite challenging and best suited for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. You'll face steep, rugged terrain, long walking days of 6-8 hours, and altitudes reaching nearly 5,000 meters. It's remote, with limited facilities, so mental toughness and stamina are key.

You'll be trekking up to 4,870 meters at Makalu Base Camp, with some optional day hikes even higher. To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend gradual ascent, staying well-hydrated, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and listening closely to your body. We've built in acclimatization days and our guides are trained to handle altitude issues and emergencies.

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is remote, so you'll mostly be camping as there are very few teahouses along the way. However, we offer upgrade options for better teahouses and gourmet meals if you'd like a more comfortable experience.

You’ll explore the pristine Makalu Barun National Park, trek through lush rhododendron forests and alpine meadows, visit isolated Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan villages, and witness jaw-dropping views of giants like Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse. The cultural encounters and wilderness solitude make this trek truly special.

Yes, all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included during the trek. You’ll enjoy typical Nepali cuisine, freshly prepared during your journey to keep your energy up. If you have dietary restrictions, just let us know in advance!

Safety is a top priority. Our experienced guides carry first aid kits and altitude medications and know emergency evacuation protocols. Though remote, the team ensures you're supported throughout the journey, and the gradual acclimatization helps reduce health risks.

Our package includes airport transfers, domestic flights, permits, a certified English-speaking guide, porter service, and all meals during trekking. You’ll need to arrange your Nepal visa, travel insurance (with emergency evacuation), personal hiking gear, drinks, tips, and personal expenses like laundry or Wi-Fi.

The ideal seasons are March to May and September to November, when the weather is clear, temperatures are moderate, and rhododendrons bloom beautifully in spring. These periods offer the best mountain views and trekking conditions.

Start with regular cardio workouts like hiking, running, or cycling to build stamina. Practice walking on uneven terrain with a loaded backpack. Mentally, prepare for long days, variable weather, and being away from modern comforts. Remember, the breathtaking views and unique cultural experiences make every challenge worth it!

Price Per Person US$1799US$2000
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