Name: Greg Brick
gdbrick123@yahoo.com
(716) 725-2828
Name: Sunil Adhikari
trekbookings@nepalliontrekking.com
(716) 725-2828

Makalu Base Camp Trek 20 Days

Price Start
USD 1800 USD  Per Person
View all Dates & Price
Activity Level

Trekking ?

Group Size
2-12
Trip Code:
NLTT-MBC
Accommodation:
Tea House/ Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
5000 m
Season:
February-May, September-December
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Destination:
Nepal/Everest Region
Duration:
20
Grade:
Moderate to fairly hard
Transportation:
Drive/ Flight
No of People Price
1-2 1800 USD
3-5 1750 USD
6 above 1700 USD

Trip Highlights

Makalu Base Camp Trek

 

Nepal, a treasure trove for avid trekkers, presents an exquisite gem in the Makalu Base Camp Trek. This guide unveils the grandeur of this Himalayan odyssey, delving into the trek’s intricate details, mesmerizing landscapes, cultural nuances, and the unparalleled experience it promises to offer.

Discovering Makalu Region

Nestled in eastern Nepal, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem that beckons adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. The Makalu region, home to the fifth-highest peak in the world, Mount Makalu (8,485 meters), offers a pristine wilderness that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. This section introduces readers to the allure of the Makalu region and the unique appeal that sets it apart from more frequented trekking destinations.

The Route Unveiled

Embarking on the Makalu Base Camp Trek takes trekkers through a kaleidoscope of landscapes. From lush, subtropical forests teeming with biodiversity to high-altitude alpine meadows and glacial moraines. Every step on this journey reveals a new facet of nature’s beauty. The trek’s itinerary is laid out, detailing the day-to-day trail and offering insights into the challenges and rewards awaiting trekkers.

Makalu Barun National Park

The Makalu Base Camp Trekking is not just a walk. It’s an immersion into the natural wonders of the Makalu Barun National Park. This segment explores the region’s incredible biodiversity, from elusive wildlife such as red pandas and snow leopards to a myriad of bird species. The park’s conservation efforts contribute to preserving this unique ecosystem, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Makalu Base Camp

Reaching the Makalu Base Camp is the culmination of the trek, and this section paints a vivid picture of the awe-inspiring scenery that unfolds at the base of Mount Makalu. Surrounded by towering peaks like Chamlang and Baruntse, trekkers are treated to panoramic views that showcase the grandeur of the Himalayas. The article highlights the sense of accomplishment and reverence that comes with standing at the foot of these majestic giants.

Cultural Encounters

Beyond the natural wonders, the Makalu Base Camp Trek provides an opportunity for cultural immersion. Trekking through remote villages inhabited by diverse ethnic communities, including the Sherpas, Rai, and Limbus, offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Himalayas. Trekkers can engage with locals, witness age-old customs, and partake in the warmth of mountain hospitality.

Challenges and Rewards

Traversing the Makalu region’s rugged terrain comes with its challenges. This part of the guide discusses the physical and mental aspects of trekking at high altitudes, acclimatization strategies. And the importance of being prepared for the ever-changing mountain weather. The challenges, whether crossing high passes or navigating steep ascents, outweigh the rewards of breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.

Tea Houses and Accommodations

The Makalu Base Camp Trekking isn’t just about roughing it out in the wild. Trekkers can enjoy the comfort of tea houses along the trail, providing a cosy retreat amidst the rugged landscapes. This section details the accommodations available, the hospitality of the teahouse owners, and the communal atmosphere that adds to the charm of the trekking experience.

The Best Time to Trek

Timing is crucial when it comes to trekking in the Himalayas. This segment provides insights into the best seasons for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, considering factors like weather, trail conditions, and the blooming of rhododendrons. Whether it’s the vibrant spring or the crisp autumn, understanding the seasonal variations enhances the trekking experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is more than a journey; it’s a symphony of nature and adventure that resonates with every step. From the hidden valleys to the towering peaks, the trek encapsulates the essence of the Himalayas in its purest form. For those seeking an authentic and transformative trekking experience. The Makalu Base Camp Trek stands as an unrivalled choice, promising memories etched in the heart forever.

Booking Open For 2024/25 With Best Trekking Company in Nepal

Related Trekking:

 

Itinerary

After breakfast, we take a one-hour morning flight to Tumlingtar. Reaching there, we head north towards Khandbari after lunch. We will pass through a plateau for about 45 minutes. At Tumlingtar, we will meet our crew members and pack our bags and start to drive to Chichili, which will take us approximately 3 / 4 hrs. Chichili has a few houses inhabited by Gurungs.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
1980m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After leaving Chichili, we walk past forests, the Mani wall, and a dirty pond. We continue to walk along the ridge past a small stream to a single Sherpa house and tea shop. This is Mure, a spread-out village at 1980 meters inhabited by Sherpas and Rais.

Below Mure, the route cuts across the ridge, then make a treacherous descent to a rocky trail down to some stone steps and a final walk to Num (1490m). Num is situated on the ridge above an S-shaped bend in the River Arun, a picturesque village with lush vegetation. On the opposite side of the Arun is the village of Sedua.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
1560m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a warm breakfast, we cross the River Arun (660 m). From the bridge, we climb steeply to a primitive tea shop and then walk through the corn and buckwheat field. Moving along the rocky path and small terraced fields of corn and barley, we make a long, steep, rough climb to Sedua (1460m).

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
1500m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We leave Sedua behind and walk along the River Rasuwa from Khola to Gyang (1770m). The trail goes through the terraced fields and forested areas to Hindrungma village and onto a new path. After lunch, we start towards Tashi Gaon; a 6 hours walk from the town of Sedua.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
2100m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail levels out and then climb to a shepherd’s hut called Chipla atop another ridge. We cross over two small streams, then switch back up the hill in forests to a Kharka at 2900 meters. We then reach Unshisha, a tiny meadow at approx 330 meters. Here the trail joins the ridge that separates the Iswa and Kasuwa drainages. The slope gets steeper and becomes a series of moss-covered stone stairs to Dhara Kharka, a meadow atop the cliff. We then move over a hillock and descend a bit to reach Kauma (3500 m).

 

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
3500m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Since we are doing a camping trek, we will take the extra day to help us clean ourselves, wash clothes, and explore the surrounding places and natural beauty. Moreover, we need to acclimatize to the climate and altitude. 

Our bodies will adapt to the environment in a day, and we can also explore the area.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
3500m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We leave Kauma to head towards Mumbuk. On the way to our next destination, we can view the famous twin peaks of Chamlang, Peak 6, and Peak 7. Treading on the ridge for a while, we ascend a stone staircase. After a time, the trail veers left off the crest to a small lake. We climb gently up a shallow rocky gully to the Kike La (4127 m). We walk past the Tutu la and continue descending for about 150 meters into the Rhododendron forests to flat land. A short walk past the dense forest leads to the village of Mumbuk.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
3570m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We walk along the stream and then follow the Barun River to a Kharka. Passing through Birch and Scrub Rhododendron forest, we reach Yangle Kharka. We climb up from Yangle Kharka, crossing to the north of the Barun Khola, and reach Nhe Kharka (3000 m). A small Gompa (Monastery) on the south side of the valley offers a panoramic view of the majestic snowcapped mountain from all sides.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
3000m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We are almost halfway through our trek, and today will be a long one as we have to walk for nearly 8 hours. We continue the walk through the northern bank of the Barun Khola for a while. After a short walk, The Barun Valley makes a huge S-shaped curve, and the walls rise vertically up to 1500 to 2000 meters above the river. But the trail turns easier as we approach Ripok Kharka. From here, the trek to Sherson is a magical and mesmerizing experience as you can see Pyramid Peak, Chamlang Peak 3,4, and 5. Further on reaching an alluvial valley, you can sight the Fifth highest mountain Makalu just as you are about to get Sherson (4615 m) which makes all the day’s efforts worthwhile and refreshes you.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
4615m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This is the day you would look forward to as we reach the Makalu Basecamp, the highest base camp on earth. From Sherson, we start walking, and the trail is left to our east. We climb down to a minor pass about 100 meters above Makalu Base Camp. We further go down, crossing over the boulders to reach the base camp on the river’s west bank. We can see the southern part of Makalu. A climb as tedious and exhilarating as this also yields the same kinds of rewards. From here, you can see the Mighty Himalayan peaks of Everest, Baruntse, Peaks 6 & 7, and also the Lhotse.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
5000m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The base camp is barren land with the Barun Glacier away from it. From the spot, we can see the stunning south face of Makalu and the magnificent view of Everest and Lhotse. Similarly, we can explore the surrounding areas with lakes, glaciers and capture photographs and enjoy the remaining time.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
5000m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we trek back to Nhe Kharka following the same trail that we had taken to reach the Makalu Base Camp.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
3000m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a hearty and warm breakfast, we walk back to Mumbuk. Traversing through the Pine and Rhododendron forests, we will reach Mumbuk in the late afternoon to witness the beautiful sunset.

 

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
3570m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Leaving Mumbuk, we trek across the Shipton La pass and start our descent towards Kauma. You will enjoy spectacular views at the pass with scenic landscapes. Once we reach Kauma, you can relax and sleep for the night.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
3470m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we climb down Tashi Gaon. Here we spend the rest of the day relaxing to catch up with the energy used to trek at the high altitude. You might be pretty exhausted, but we’re almost alive.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
2070m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

From Tashi Gaon we go down to Sedua, and then follow the trails to further go down to Mulgaon. Leaving Mulgaon behind, we start walking down the steep rocky trail through fields of corn and barley until we reach the Ipsuwa Khola. Here we have to cross the suspension bridge and stop for lunch. This is the place from where we have entered the Arun Valley. The area is used as a temporary settlement by the farmers living up in the hills. Further down the trail and we reach Balung (760 m).

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
760m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We start a bit late today as the trail is short to the village of Pukuwa. We walk past the Walung (880m) town predominated by the Rai community and then cross the Apsawa Khola. After a small climb, we will reach Chhayang village, a settlement of the Rai community. The trail then crosses a stream at 590m and makes some ups and downs to reach Parangbu, a delightful camping spot among rice fields on the banks of the Arun River. We walk through forests and pass several small streams to get to Pukuwa (550m).

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
550m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Passing some rocky terrain and green fields on the trail, we reach the village of Tome (520 m). Makalu Barun base camp trekking is famous for the mountains and their cultivation in such a remote and challenging terrain. Below Tome, the Arun Valley becomes broader and more U-shaped. The trail ascends over another ridge on a steep, narrow stairway cut out of rocks. From the top of the hill at 530m, the trail descends to a charming camp on the banks of the Sankhuwa Khola (370m), across from the Chhetri village of Bumling.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
370m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the last day of the trek, and we go down, following the river downstream to its confluence with the Arun River. Further on, we cross the Arun River and start walking on the east bank of the Arun, past the village of Chyawabesi, before climbing back to the Tumlingtar plateau. We walk on flat land to the hotel near the airport.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
460m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We take a flight back to Kathmandu which lasts for an hour.You can extend your trip by exploring the natural and cultural beauty of Kathmandu or rests of the day enjoy yourself.

Accommodation:
Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude:
1,310m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Price & Dates

What's Included

  • Airport pick up and drop off, upon arrival and departure in Kathmandu (International and domestic both)
  • Makalu Base camp all required permit fee and Makalu Barun National Park entrance fee
  • Flight ticket to Tumlingtar both ways
  • Food and accommodation during the trek and climb (full board with breakfast, lunch and dinner with tea/coffee and seasonal fresh fruits)
  • One licensed English or Chinese or Korean or Hindi along with Nepali speaking trekking guide
  • Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
  • Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don't have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)
  • First Aid Medical Kit(Carried by the guide)

Optional Addons

  • Porter
  • Hotel in Kathmandu

What's Not Included

  • International Airfare
  • Visa Charges
  • Your travel and medical insurance
  • Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
  • Services not mentioned or not promised by the Agent / Agency
  • Emergency expenses such as expenses on charted Flights / Helicopter

Did you know Makalu Barun Valley and Mount Makalu ?

~ Mount Makalu is named after the Hindu God “Maha Kala,” otherwise known as Lord Shiva.

~ Mount Makalu is one of the most challenging mountains to climb.

~ Kangchungtse and Chomo Lonzo are subsidiary peaks of Mt. Makalu.

~ Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy first climbed Mt. Makalu in May 1955.

Permit & Cost for Makalu Base Camp Trekking and Itinerary

The trek to Makalu Base Camp consists of multiple permits and documents. These permits are the record that helps manage tourism in Nepal Including some basic things such as tax.

You will be requiring the Makalu Barun National Park Permit. For this, you must consult with the Nepal Tourism Board and you will get the permit without any problem. This may sometimes take days. Thus, proper management of time is necessary both when solo trekking or trekking with an agency. 

Another important must-have document is the Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card. For this, you will have to go to Pokhara or Kathmandu. Usually, most of the trekking agencies include this card on their package, so it will not give you a headache when trekking with an agency. In case of solo trekking, you must run to various places mentioned above to get permits and passes.

Also for your extra knowledge, Makalau Base Camp trek being slight remote than any other trek has been reported of bandits. Thus, solo trek is not encouraged and you must consult an expert before trekking

Can you see Everest from Makalu?

For many getting a glimpse of Mt. Everest is a big deal. Even for someone experienced, the view of Everest is unlike that they ever saw. Everest is something that stays on your mind even when you trek another region. The significance that this peak holds is simply incomparable. Even while trekking Makalu Base Camp the question for many is will I be able to see Everest from the base camp? The answer to this is Yes! You can. You get a wholesome view of the great Everest standing proud at a distance through a viewpoint located in Makalau Base Camp.

Lying at an altitude of about 5100m, this Makalu Base Camp viewpoint gives you a panoramic view of multiple great peaks. And Everest tends to be one of them. Makalu Base Camp is a trek that is not limited to its region, you get to experience stunning views of peaks like Everest(8849m), Baruntse(7200m), and Lhotse(8516m)

How difficult is Makalu Base Camp Trek considered?

When comparing the Makalu Base Camp trek to well-known treks such as Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit, Makalu tends to be more difficult and draining for an individual. Everest and Annapurna region gaining a lot of popularity has become a role model trek for others to compare their trek with. More experienced ones often perform Makalu Base Camp Trek as they know the pros and cons. What makes this trek more difficult you may ask?

Factors such as Remoteness, rugged natural trails, and the great incline make it more difficult than treks such as Everest and Annapurna. This Trek being underrated defines why remoteness exists in the such trek. With no facilities and paths like the world-renowned treks. Makalu Base Camp Trek may be draining and challenging for a beginner. A wise decision would be start with an easier grade trek such as Everest and later come up with more experience to conquer this piece of Nature. But it is totally upto you. With great assistance and enough knowledge, everything is possible.

Where is Makalu base camp?

Makalu Base Camp is located 10km South-East of Mt. Everest, being a part of the Mahalangur Himalayan range. This trek begins from Tumlingtar, which is an hour’s flight from Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar, a drive of about three hours takes you to Chichila which is the real starting point of the trek. 

Many may not know the exact location of Makalu Base Camp as this slightly bends towards the underrated trek. By no means underrated means this trek is inferior to other treks. As what it means is Makalu Base Camp is a harder trek, usually, people tend to trek its alternative. But when it comes to the content and feature of this trek. It doesn’t lack behind.

Makalu Base Camp is located 10km South-East of Mt. Everest, being a part of the Mahalangur Himalayan range. This trek begins from Tumlingtar, which is an hour’s flight from Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar, a drive of about three hours takes you to Chichila which is the real starting point of the trek. 

Compared to other popular treks, this one is a bit extreme and remote. Thus, do not expect a social life while trekking Makalu Base Camp. As only if luck favours you may be able to charge your devices once in several days. Settling at an altitude of about 5100m, a great trek awaits you.

Kathmandu to Transportation for Makalu Trek

The real trek to Makalu Base Camp starts from the point called Tumlingtar. From there it is all just trek and slopes. But until Tumlingtar there are few means of transportation that you can take for your comfort. 

Ultimately two means of transport are there to reach Tumlingtar, one is you can take a bus from Kathmandu or get your private vehicle and travel to Tumlingtar which is almost 500km far from the capital. Another alternative is that you can take a quick flight of about 45 mins to reach Tumlingtar to continue with the Trek. For most travel by air is the best bet for more comfort and a great way to save energy. Thus, it is the best bang for the buck

Food and accommodation during Makalu Base Camp Trek.

20 days of itinerary is a whole lot of time, such massive time you must need proper accommodation and meals to fuel your body to keep going on. Without proper accommodation and meals, trekking such a hard trek is really impossible. 

The places where we spend our nights throughout the treks are called tea houses. Tea houses are small wooden houses built for trekkers and hikers in that region. With proper meal serving(mostly dhal bhat) you get to sleep at comfort in these tea houses. But going up to higher altitudes, the condition of these tea houses may slightly vary. You cannot expect modern systems and facilities at such tea houses as the trek is in quite a remote area. Consider yourself lucky if you find yourself hot water and electricity.

Trip Information

Personal Details

Makalu Base Camp Trek 20 Days

Trip Duration 20 days
Total Person Person(s)
Total Price: $

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Tours and Trip packages

Nepal is famous for its trekking destinations with the most popular destinations in Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions. But there are so many trekking or hiking optional package tours in the Himalayan mountains. Nepal is such a beautiful country for outdoor adventure, full of culture, and local people. Browse through a list of destinations to find your perfect trek.

Seven World Heritage Kathmandu Day tour – 1 Day
$ 35 / Per Person
Pikey Peak Trekking 7 Days
$ 800 / Per Person
Upper Mustang Trekking 14 Days
$ 2300 / Per Person
Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days
$ 1050 / Per Person
Pikey Peak Trekking 9 Days
$ 999 / Per Person
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking 12 Days
$ 800 / Per Person

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