Mt. Makalu is recognized as the world's fifth-highest mountain, with a height of 8463m. Makalu Base Camp is situated in Makalu Barun National Park, which covers an area of 2230 sq. km. of Solukhumbu and extends to Sankhuwasabha district.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. It starts in the town of Tumlingtar, which is located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, and heads up to the Arun River Valley. The trail to Makalu Base Camp heads towards the Shipton La Pass and crosses the Upper Barun Valley. This trek to Makalu Base Camp will provide you with pleasant and enchanting views of some of the highest mountains in the world, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Chamlang, Mt. Makalu, and other ranges.
Moreover, this route offers the unique cultural heritage and lifestyle of the Himalayan people. Passing the alpine meadows, subtropical forests, and terraced fields, you will have a prolonged overview of Nepal's natural diversity and ecosystem. The trek to Makalu Base Camp will offer you a unique experience of the culture of the Sherpa people, the natural tapestry, and the Himalayan lifestyle.
Trip Itinerary
Day 01
On the first day, you will arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representatives from Pure Adventure will receive you and transfer you to the hotel. You can then settle in and enjoy the sights and sites. In the evening, you will have your dinner while you meet your guide for a briefing and preparation for the trek.
Day 02
After having a fulfilling breakfast in your hotel, you will have an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. Tumlingtar is the gateway to the Makalu region. After the flight, you will have a scenic drive along the Arun River Valley to Num. Num is a village that lies in the lap of the mountains. You will spend the night in Num.
Day 03
On the following day, you will start a gradual trek through the Arun River Valley along the trail with lush green forests and local settlements. The trail descends from Num through the cornfield of Lumbang. The village has a rocky land with tiny terraces planted with barley. You will have a tough steep climb to Seuda and be there for the day.
Day 04
After collecting yourself from Seudwa, you will head towards Tashigaon. The trail crosses meadows and several streams then climbs to the Sherpa village of Tashi Gaon, the last permanent settlement in the valley. It is a moderate climb through rhododendron forests and a cascading waterfall. You will overnight stay in a teahouse in Tashigaon.
Day 05
With a fulfilling breakfast at your tea house, you will commence your trek to Khongma Danda. You will pass through Danda Kharka, Chipla, Unushisha, and finally ascend to Khongma. You may experience some signs of altitude mountain sickness. On your way, you will explore the yak pasture and breathtaking views of Mt. Makalu and the Barun Valley.
Day 06
Acclimatization day includes resting and adjusting to the altitude. You can take a rest, explore the surrounding area, and visit a local monastery. You can enjoy the majestic panorama of the mountain views.
Day 07
Waking up early morning, you will head up to Dobato. This day crosses three passes: Ghenguru La (4045m), Shipton La (4216m), and Keke La (4250m). You will hike through the alpine meadows and glacial moraine landscapes. On your way, you will see the breathtaking vista of Chamlang and Barunotse Himchuli.
Crossing the Yangle Kharka, you will pass through a vast meadow of Yak hedging settlements. After reaching Dobato, you will have an overnight stay at a teahouse.
Day 08
Today, you will move towards Yangri Khaka. With the upward trek through glacial valleys and moraine fields. You will walk slowly down, pass through Phematang, cross a suspension bridge on the Barun River, and finally get to Yangle Kharka for your overnight stay there.
Day 09
The trail continues to climb to Nghe Kharka, Ripuk Kharka, Jhak Kharka, and finally to Langmale Kharka. The climb is challenging through a rocky ridge towards the Makalu Base Camp. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. You will have a fulfilling meal in a tea house and sleep there.
Day 10
This day is the final push to the Makalu Base Camp. As you begin your trek early in the morning, you will head towards Makalu Base Camp. After arriving at Makalu Base Camp, you will be able to explore the intriguing view of the snow-capped mountains and ravishing surroundings. The southern face of Makalu will present you with a glacial moraine and many other exquisite sights. You will stay in a tent at the Makalu Base Camp.
Day 11
Walking up in between the Himalayas is a remarkable experience in itself. Alternatively, you can hike to Makalu La Pass for more spectacular views. However, this will require additional permits and experience. Your guide will help you reach sights such as Barun Pokhari, Shersong, and the Hillary Base Camp. At the end, you will return to your tent.
Day 12
This day is your coming back from Makalu Base Camp. After breakfast, you will descend to Yangla Kharka. Through the glacial valleys and meadows, you can enjoy the changing scenery and diverse landscapes. You can stay at a tent or teahouse in Yangri Kharka.
Day 13
With an early morning trek, you will retrace your steps through Yangle Kharka and morain fields. Have your breakfast and resume your trek to Dobato.
Day 14
You will walk up to Shipton La and descend to Khongma La, which will take around 4 to 5 hours. Upon arrival at Khongma, find a room for your stay. You can enjoy the surrounding beauty around the place.
Day 15
After having breakfast at the tea house, you can make your way down to Tashigaon. You will complete the trek after 5 hours. You can find a comfortable room in a tea house and take some time to relax. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of the area.
Day 16
You will move slowly and carefully towards Sedwa. Explore the surroundings and landscapes around you. And spend the night at the tea house.
Day 17
Revisit the Num Danda; you will move through the yak pasture and rhododendron forests. You can enjoy the changing scenery and local settlements. You can stay there for the night.
Day 18
Today is the day you will head back to Kathmandu. However, you will have a scenic drive along the Arun River Valley to Tumlingtar. After this, you will head towards Kathmandu by flight. Don’t forget to take the window seat to see the views for the last time. You will stay overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 19
This is the final day of trekking in Nepal. However, before heading back to your homeland, you can have time to explore this bustling city. You can visit various heritage sites, including the UNESCO-listed sites. Stroll and shop around Kathmandu, and finally, you can pack your stuff to avoid any last-moment rush. Our representatives from Pure Adventure will bid you a final farewell and drop you off at the airport. You can then move towards your homeland with a heart full of memories.
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Airport pickup and drop at Tribhuwan International Airport
Tourist bus from Kathmandu
3-star Hotel stays at Kathmandu night stay in twin sharing
Lodging and Tea house accommodation
Licensed Trek Guide with good spoken English plus assistant leader each for a group of four
A porter sharing for two trekkers each on the route
Salary and Insurance Cost of Staff
Pure Adventure Nepal T-Shirt/ trekking maps
All necessary paperwork and permits (TIMS/ Conservation Fee).
Emergency medical kit and local taxes
What not to Expect
International Flight and Nepal VISA fees
Travel Insurance
Extra activities cost not planned within the Itinerary
Hard or Soft Drinks and snacks
Tips for Staff (Trekking Guide, Assistant, and Porter)
Essential packing Equipment
Extra cost for booking domestic flight other than planned
Gears and Equipments
Clothing
Waterproof jackets and pants
Sweaters and down jackets
Lightweight trousers
Hiking shirts- long-sleeved
Hooded raincoat and Fleece jacket
Innerwears
Lightweight and heavyweight winter gloves
Sun hat or scarf; Money belt; Cotton headscarf, bandana
Winter hat or insulating hat
Personal accessories
Headlights and extra batteries
Face and body wipes
Sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection
Money
Watch
Cell phone and camera
Extra items
First aid kit
Passport-sized photos and passport photocopies
Binoculars
Personal medications
1 swiss type knife
Sleeping bags and sheets,
Rucksack, backpack, and a small day pack
Water bottle
Water purification tablet solution
Footwears
Trekking Boots
A pair of sports shoes
Heavy wool and light socks
Frequently asked questions
The Makalu Base Camp is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and experience.
The best time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the skies are clear.
You will need a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System). Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, and Makalu Base Camp Special Permit.
On average, you can expect to pay 3000 USD to 4500 USD per person for the whole trek. However, this can be altered as per your personal preferences. services are chosen and group size.
There are primarily two ranges of accommodation services available at the Manaslu Base Camp Trek, including teahouses and tents.