Makalu Base Camp Trek - 22 Days

  • Duration: 22 Days
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Group: 1 - 25 people
  • Max Altitude: 5,000m
  • Best Time Feb - May, Sep - Dec
  • Pick-up: Private Vehicle

Highlights

  • The adventurous trail through Makalu Barun National park
  • Off-the-beaten trekking experience
  • Explore remote mountain villages and valleys
  • Experience rich culture and unique lifestyle of locals
  • Cross challenging passes
  • Reach Makalu Base Camp, a lap of the fifth highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu
  • Witness breath-taking scenery and mountain views including Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Chamlong, Mt. Baruntse, etc

About Makalu Base Camp Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek traverses one of the remotest parts of Nepal. During the Makalu Base Camp Trek 22 Days, you will be exploring the beautiful Makalu region. The trail encompasses verdant hills, rhododendron forests, fine mountain villages, colorful terraced farms, and diverse flora & fauna. Makalu Base Camp Trekking is a perfect package for those in quest of true adventure and challenges in the Himalayas. Makalu Base Camp Trek itinerary is crafted to let confront off the beaten trekking trail as well.

Makalu Base Camp Trekking leads to the base of the fifth highest mountain, Mount Makalu (8,481 m). This trek is also one of the less-visited treks by travelers because of its remoteness and lack of tourist infrastructure. However, the region has remained unspoiled and raw. The trek provides get to see the range of vegetation as the trail passes by Makalu Barun National Park and high snow-covered Himalayan mountains like Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Mt. Baruntse (7,162 m), etc. Likewise, you will get to observe a very unique way of life of the locals along with their ancient culture & traditions. This region is home of 3000 species flowering plants, 440 species of beautiful birds, and 75 species of mammals, Which one wonderful land in Nepal. Makalu has indigenous group resides like Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Lhomu, where remised the rich traditional culture. 

Stunning glaciers, cascading waterfalls, outstanding Barun River Valley, and the warm hospitality of the locals make Makalu Base Camp Trek a once in a lifetime journey. Makalu Base Camp Trek difficulty is tough. You have to have prior trekking experience to go on this journey. Similarly, good health and physical fitness are also needed. The best time to go on Makalu Base Camp Trek is from March to April and October to November. Feel free to contact us at any time to know about Makalu Base Camp Trek's cost or for any other queries.

Itinerary

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After landing at the airport, you can meet with one of our team representatives at the airport. He will transfer you to the hotel. Rest and get freshened up. Later, in the evening, you meet with other team members at the welcome dinner organized by the company. End your day exploring around the bustling streets of Thamel.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1,300m
  • Kathmandu

Today, you go on a sightseeing tour of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will visit places like Swayambhunath, Boudhnath Stupa, Pashupatinath temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. As you will be guided by a professional tour guide, he will inform you about the monuments. Later, in the late afternoon, you prepare for the trip. You meet with the trek guide and check all the gears & documents for the last time.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1,300m
  • Kathmandu

Wake up early in the morning and have a delicious breakfast. You will then take a short flight to Tunlingtar. From here, you drive to Chichira enjoying beautiful landscape views.


  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,980m
  • Chichira

Today is your first day of the trek. The trail heads towards Num. You walk through fine villages and lush forests before reaching Num. On the way, you get to see stunning views of mountains. 

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,560m
  • Num

From Num, the trail drops down through dense forests and colorful terraced forests. You reach the Barun river and cross it. Further, the trail ascends and passes by Makalu Barun National Park. Ths national park is home to many species of flora and fauna. You will reach Seduwa, where you spend the night.


  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,500m
  • Seduwa

After having breakfast, you ascend to a ridge, which is surrounded by Ipsuwa Khola and Kasuwa Khola on the west and east sides. The trail then passes through peaceful villages and paddy fields to take you to Tashi Gaon. This village welcomes you with breath-taking views of snow-capped mountains. 

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2,100m
  • Tashi Gaon

It is going to be tough as you will be doing steep climbing. Leaving Tashi Gaon behind, you ascend through dense forests to a stream. From here, you trek towards a ridge, and further following a steep path, you pass by grazing land. The trail then involves rugged stone stairs that take you to the top of another ridge. You then descend and reach Khongma Danda for a night stay.


  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,500m
  • Khongma Danda

Today is your first day of acclimatization. You will spend the day exploring the Khongma Danda. As the next day is going to be tough, it is very important you gain all the energy and adjust your body with the increased altitude.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,500m
  • Khongma Danda

You wake up early and begin ascending towards Shipton La Pass. From the top of this pass, you get to see beautiful views of the surrounding. Further, you pass by Kalo Pokhari (3,930 m) and cross Keke La Pass (4,170 m). From here, you get to see stunning views of Mt. Chamlang, Peak 7, Peak 6, etc. The trail then descends to Dobate, where you spend the night.


  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,640m
  • Dobate

The trail moves through lush forests of rhododendron and takes you to Barun River. The first couple of hours of the trail will be steep and tough, therefore be careful while walking. Later, the trail gradually moves towards Yangri Kharka offering amazing scenery.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,557m
  • Yangri Kharka

Leaving Yangri Kharka behind, you enter into a more remote area. The trail passes through yak pastures, dense forests, and rocky paths. Passing by Merek, you trek towards Langmale Kharka enjoying fantastic views of Himalayan mountains.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4,410m
  • Langmale Kharka

The trail today takes you to Makalu Base Camp via Shershong. You have to walk on the flat snowy path surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan mountains. From the base camp, you get to see gorgeous views of the Himalayas. 

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4,870m
  • Makalu Base Camp

You spend the day acclimatizing and exploring around. Makalu Base Camp is a rocky barren area with a huge Barun Glacier. You get to witness panoramic views of mountains like Everest, Lhotse, etc. Nearby the base camp are a few lakes. You can go on a short hike to observe more scenic views.


  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4,870m
  • Makalu Base Camp

After having breakfast, you will retrace the path and descend to Yangri Khara. Passing through Shershong, Langmale Kharka, and Merek, you reach the destination of the day. The trail offers amazing views of snow-covered mountains.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,557m
  • Yangri Kharka

Leaving Yangri Kharka behind, you descend through rocky paths and dense forests. The trail follows the Barun river bank and takes you to Dobate for a night stay.


  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,640m
  • Dobate

The trail steeply ascends to Mumbuk through lush forests of rhododendron and fir. Further, you cross Keke La Pass, Tutu La Pass (Shipton La Pass), and Kauma La Pass. It is going to be a long and tough day. From the last pass, you descend and reach Khongma Danda.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,500m
  • Khongma Danda

You continue trekking through small villages and descend along the hillside. The trail further goes through dense forests and takes you to Tashi Gaon. This is an indigenous Sherpa village.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2,100m
  • Tashigaon

From Tashi Gaon, you retrace the path through Makalu Barun National Park and descend to Barun River. Crossing the hillside, you pass by small villages and further descend to Seduwa.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,500m
  • Seduwa

Leaving Seduwa, you pass by lush forests. After a few ascends and descends through different forests and villages, you reach Num.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,560m
  • Num

The trail takes you to Chichira. From here, you drive back to Tumlingtar. The drive offers last views of snow-capped mountains including Mt. Makalu. 

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,800m
  • Tumlingtar

Today, you fly back to Kathmandu. the flight will be scenic and short. Upon landing at the airport, you move to the hotel. You can rest and explore nearby areas as the day is free for you. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner with all the team members.


  • Hotel
  • Breakfast/Lunch
  • 1,300m
  • Kathmandu

Your adventurous trip comes to an end. You fly back to your home today. One of our team members will drop you at the international airport as per your flight time and bid you our last good wishes.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfas
  • 1,300m
  • Kathmandu

Notices

Himalayan Frozen Adventure will fully support your whole trip. Sometimes come these kinds of the problem; Weather conditions, health condition of a group member, and unexpected natural disasters. These conditions we make extra or rest day, which is not available in this itinerary but if you have time then it is possible to make more extra day at trekking. You have to pay a package for extra days.

Cost Details

Included Excluded
  • Pickup/Drop from Airport – Hotel - Airport a private vehicle.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu 2 nights with breakfast.
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle.
  • Teahouse/Lodges accommodation during the trek.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu).
  • An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking Guide.
  • leader and assistant trek.
  • leader (6 trekkers: 1 assistant guide).
  • Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter).
  • Seasonal fresh fruits and Supplementary snacks.
  • Guide & Porter costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
  • Emergency rescue operation assistance in arranging in case of complex health conditions (funded by your Travel Insurance).
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion).
  • Himalayan Frozen Adventure bag/duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map are yours to take.
  • Trekking permits (National park permit, TIMS).
  • First aid box.
  • Farewell Dinner.
  •  
  • Nepalese visa fee (15 days - $25-30, 30 days- $40-50 and 90 days- $100-110).
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
  • Excess baggage charges.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Personal trekking equipment for this trek.
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Personal clothing and gear.
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver.

Departures & Dates

Himalayan Frozen Adventure is a responsible travel company in Nepal. Our all dates are 100% guaranteed if there no political unrest and natural disaster then. Is there not any error then you can use this date it's better for your trip.  We try our best to ensure this information.

FAQs

Is Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulty?
Yes, Makalu Base Camp Trek is Difficulty through the Makalu Base Camp Trek (5,000m). This trek Difficulty is classified as moderate, who has good healthy fitness, perfect training, and already has done trek above 3000m, those trekkers can do easily this trek. 

Is it necessary to need travel Insurance for this trek?
The travel insurance will cover emergency evacuation as Helicopter rescue and the hospital charge. If you fell an accident and Acute mountain sickness then, at this condition, your travel insurance will immediately provide the helicopter. 

Electricity does available on Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Yes, electricity is available in the lower region of Makalu Trek, where you can get to charge your camera and mobile batteries, etc. But high elevation there has a solar system power so it's not enough for the charge. So we suggest you take some extra batteries for this Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Is possible to take my children to Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Of course, all of the age can do it but before goes trekking, you have to give hard training for your child.

Is possible to get a hot shower the trekking?
Yes, the hot shower is possible to get many lodges and teahouse but above the 4,000m is not available and not good for your health.

Can I found Wi-Fi through the trek?
Of course, Wi-Fi is available many lodges and teahouse, but you have to pay extra.

Is it safe for a solo female traveler?
Of course, the solo female traveler is fully safe, Himalayan frozen Adventure is responsible teams, who leading many solo trekkers through the Himalayan and made successfully.

How can I respect the culture?
During the trekking, we can get see amazing cultures, there we can see some notice, we have to follow that notice rule and regulation.

Is possible to get ATM through trek?
No, is not possible to get ATM and bank through the trek, so you have to takes Nepali money from Kathmandu.

Do I have to take sleeping bags on the trek?
Yes, is necessary to take sleeping bags on the trek because the lodges don't have enough blanket.

How high the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Makalu Base Camp Trek elevation is (5,000m) above the sea level. 

Is Makalu Base Camp Trek permits necessary?
Yes, we need Makalu Base Camp Trek permit, and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) permit is necessary for this trek.

How many hours I have to walk each day?
For this trek per day maximum of 7 hours and a minimum of 5 hours, you have to walk.

Is possible to make an extra day on the trek?
Yes, if you have time then the trekking is always flexible, you can easily add.

Without any trek can I do it? 
Yap, many trekkers succeed without any trek but you have to use 2-3 acclimatization days through the trekking. Himalayan Frozen Adventure recommend you before going to the trek, you have to need hard training. If any information needs about this trip please kindly contact us.

Booking trip can I do cancel?
Yes, you have the option to cancel this trip but there are some certain conditions:

  • If you cancel your trip before 60 days the full amount will be refunded
  • If you cancel your trip before 30 days the 30% amount will be refunded.
  • If you cancel your trip before 1 week the 5% amount will be refunded.

How to manage drink water through trekking?
The Makalu region can get normal free tap water, for this water you have to use purification medicine. Bottled water or boiled water also available to buy at lodges and teahouse. Per day you have to drink about 4-6 liters water for your health.

Is possible to pick up me from the airport?
Yes, when you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, our airport representative will wait for you at the airport, we will display a Himalayan Frozen Adventure with your group name signboard outside the airport terminal. You will be then transferred to your respective hotel in our car.

Can I exchange my money in Nepal?
Of course, You can exchangers your money at the Airport, ATM, and money exchange by a better rate. And you can get enough Nepalese cash for your trek.

What do I have to carry on the trekking?
You have to carry the perfect size trekking bag where you can put your personal belongings item, snacks, sunscreen, water, camera,  gloves, hat, and jacket. Our porter will carry your 20 kg bigger packs.

Is possible to store my extra things in Kathmandu Hotel?
Yes, it's possible to store your extra things in Kathmandu Hotel, We have a safe place to store your luggage.

Can I get an experienced guide?
Of course, we'll provide an experienced guide, who has the deepest information about Himalayan Nepal, and government license holder English speaking guide. Our guide and porter are fully helpful and friendly and make your trip fantastic.

 

Useful Information

Makalu Base Camp Trek Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory to have to join an adventurous trip in the Himalayas. It is for your safety. The travel insurance must cover things like illness, medical emergencies, accidents, death, trip cancellation, and loss of personal baggage & items. All costs for Emergency Evacuation must be paid in cash in Nepal unless an insurance company has agreed to pay all the cost on your behalf. Make sure that your travel insurance covers activities in the Himalayas if you are participating in them.

*Note: Foreigners are not allowed to purchase an insurance policy in Nepal. So make sure to purchase good travel insurance in your country, and it is your responsibility to check whether your insurance policy is adequate or not.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Accommodation

Makalu Base Camp Trek accommodations are Lodge and Teahouse. Around Kathmandu, we can find a good facility with comfortable accommodation at the Hotel. Makalu Base Camp Trek, all accommodations are on the twin-shared basis. During the trek, Himalayan frozen Adventure will manage room with attached washrooms. In the teahouse, we have to share the toilet. Single room is available in Kathmandu and the lower elevation trekking region but might be impossible to higher elevations.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Meals

At the Kathmandu have included only breakfast. During the Makalu Base Camp Trek, all meals will be provided. In the Makalu region, we can enjoy Nepalese food with international cuisine like Tibetan, Continental, Indian, Tibetan, Italian, etc. Through the trek, we have breakfast/lunch at the teahouse and Dinner will be at the lodge. You can choices different kinds of breakfast, lunch, and dinner by the menu. 

Passport & Visa

A passport with at least six months of validity from the return date is mandatorily needed. You can get the Nepalese visa from the Nepalese Embassies or Consulate in your country. You can also get the Nepalese visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Do know that there are few countries that have to apply for the Nepalese visa from their own country. Obtaining your visa is entirely your responsibility.

While booking, make sure to put full and correct passport information so that we can get all the necessary permits, tickets, and pay fees on your behalf. If you do not provide the correct information when you make your booking, we will not be able to make the necessary bookings on your behalf and cannot be held responsible.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

AMS or altitude sickness is one of the main risks while traversing in the high altitude. The main region behind getting AMS is when the body doesn't adjust to the lower level, and the result can be deadly. So it is very important to take proper measures on time. Gaining altitude with constant pace and proper acclimatization days will help reduce the chances of getting AMS.

Similarly, you also have to keep yourself hydrated during the trek, therefore, drink enough water and avoid alcoholic drinks as it dehydrates the body. If you are planning to trek in one of the adventurous trails of Nepal then do keep above things in your mind.

Symptoms of altitude sickness

  • Difficulty in sleeping
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath with exertion

Preventive measures

  • Include an adequate number of rest days in the itinerary
  • Keep yourself hydrated
  • Do not drink alcoholic beverages
  • Do not gain more than 500 meters in a day
  • Try to spend the night in lower altitude
  • Acclimatize properly at a lower altitude
  • Inform your guide immediately if any of the symptoms you see
  • Do not push yourself

Makalu Base Camp Trek Best season

The climatic condition of Nepal differs from place to place depending upon geographical regions. One can have warm and hot wear in the terai whereas can observe the chilling arctic-like weather in the Himalayas. Nepal’s weather is influenced by a maritime and continental factor and has four different seasons, Autumn (September to November), followed by Winter (December to February), Spring (March to May), and finally, there is Summer/Monsoon (June to August).

The best time to go on an adventurous journey in the Himalayas is in Spring (March to May) and Autumn (mid-September to November). These are the best times to go on any treks and climbing trips because of stable weather and a moderate climate. There is only one place in Nepal, where you can go trekking in even monsoon (July to mid-September) and that is Upper Dolpo. This region lies in the rain shadow of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and therefore does not receive rainfall in the monsoon.

Autumn (September To November)

Autumn (September-November) is one of the perfect seasons to trekking with hiking in Himalayan Nepal, so thousands of trekkers choose these months. In fact, September, October, and November months are will be full of excellent atmosphere as well as beauty, enjoys your journey with joy and beauty. The Autumn season provides reference weather with clear magnificent mountains. The temperature is good than another season. September-November is a great time to express your adventure in Himalayan Nepal. It will also be free from natural disasters such as floods and landslides these months. It's the most famous season to goes high altitude area of Himalayan. 

Winter (November To March)

Winter (November-March) is also possible to trek in Himalayan Nepal, the weather condition is stable and the days are clear. December, January and February are the cold months in Nepal. Days temperatures are cool but the nights are much cold. During the winter trek is risk winds and colder temperatures. Above 3,000m altitude being usually snowfall and freezing. If you are looking for wonderful scenery, let choose the lower elevation trek in Nepal.

Spring (March To May)

Spring (March-May) is the second famous trekking season in Himalayan Nepal. March, April, and May is also a great option to mountain climbing and high altitude trek. At spring morning weather condition will be clear, but the afternoon sky covered by the cloud, and sometimes can be rain. You can get to see beautiful flowers like jasmine, pine, and rhododendron with wild flora. During the Spring, lower altitude trek is mildly warm and above 3,000m quite a moderate temperature. This season also best to express your adventure in Nepal.

Summer (June To August)

In the summer season, the trekkers are less crowded in the Himalayan region will be less. June, July and August are the main raining season in Nepal which involves monsoon. Bad weather can hamper travel, maybe some problems during the journey due to heavy rain. Some travelers prefer to travel at this time as this is also not an emergency period. The weather is hot and almost everyday rains. This season is better for the tour to Tibet and in Himalayan Nepal like Mustang, Dolpo region, and Nar-Phu valley because these regions are in the rain-shadow.

Trekking Equipment

Trekking equipment is the essential material used during the trip to the Himalayas, which is used on a daily basis. Without trekking equipment, your trip may be unsuccessful so we request you please follow the list. If you have not time to buy in your country, so don't worry we can help to buy trekking equipment in Kathmandu. Himalayan Frozen Adventure Pvt.Ltd will make your precious time reference and entertainment.

Trekking Equipment Lists

HEAD

  • Headlight
  • Sun hat
  • Warm hat and scarf

FACE

  • Face wipes and towels
  • Sunscreen +40
  • Sunglass

Hands

  • Waterproof & Snowproof Gloves
  • Lightweight gloves

Body clothing

  • Sleeping bag
  • Down jackets
  • Sport hiking t-shirts, preferably quick-drying
  • Fleece jacket and sweaters
  • Poncho and rain jacket
  • Socks preferably cotton –mix
  • Lightweight cotton trekking pants with folding option

Lists of Footwear

  • Water/Snowproof Trekking Boots
  • Socks preferably cotton sports socks but take some extra pairs
  • Crampon (optional)

Essential gear

  • Day Backpack above the 30 L
  • Pack covers
  • Thermos Bottel- hard bottle that can be used for boiled drinking water

Water peals

  • Umbrella / Poncho
  • Walking pole if you need it
  • Thick Sleeping bag
  • Deodorant
  • Laundry soap
  • Antibacterial Gel
  • Toiletries
  • Toothbrush
  • Shampoo

Personal accessories

  • Cell phone
  • Watch
  • Camera
  • Money wallet with Money
  • Padlocks
  • Plastic bag
  • Sewing kit
  • Extra p photos and passport photocopies

First-aid Kit

  • Diamox (acetazolamide)
  • Lozenges
  • Elastic bandages
  • Moleskin
  • Cotton bandages and band-aids
  • Lancing needle
  • Antibiotic eye-drops
  • Thermometer
  • Sling
  • Paracetamol
  • Antiseptic antibacterial cream or solution
  • Painkillers
  • Anti-emetic for nausea (not at high altitude)
  • Loperamide to control diarrhea
  • Norfloxacin or Cipro to cure diarrhea, other infections
  • Oral rehydration salts

Himalayan Frozen Adventure Pvt. Ltd porter is available for (2 trekkers a porter) who will carry up to 20 kg at maximum; therefore, keep this in mind before you pack your bags!!!