Makalu Base Camp Trekking

Trip Facts

Duration

Duration 16 Days

Difficulty

Difficulty Moderate

The trek starts after a fifty minutes flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a short drive to Chichila. From Chichila, the trail winds up along the Barun River via Num and Seduwa. You’ll trek through the protected areas of Makalu Barun National Park, beautiful settlements, and terraced fields of buckwheat, corn, and potato. Trek past the Sherpa village of Tashigaon, and then you will stop at Khongma for acclimatization. Conquer the tough and challenging trek through Shipton La Pass to reach Dobato. Finally, you’ll make your way to Makalu Base camp via Yangri Kharka and Merek.

This is a challenging high altitude trek that requires a good level of physical fitness. The trek requires two types of permits that include Makalu Barun National Park area permit and Makalu Rural Municipality entry permit. Accommodation includes basic facilities along the trekking trail. At places, you’ll also enjoy the homestay service with warm hospitality. The best seasons to do this trek is during spring and autumn as the temperature is moderate with clear skies.

Backround

The trek offers you a golden opportunity to peek in the lifestyle of the Himalayan people while exploring the high altitude lakes, hanging glaciers, snow-clad landscapes, and awe-inspiring Himalayan cliffs. The trail threads through Makalu Barun National park, Barun valley, and finally leads you to the pristine land of Makalu Base camp. From the base camp, enjoy the panoramic view of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and many other mountain peaks in the Himalayan region.

About Us

As a renowned company in the field of high altitude trekking, we offer the best trekking services and facilities. We assure you that you’ll have a rewarding trek with our experienced guides and porters. Book your trek to with Nepal Alternative Treks and Expedition and explore the incredible beauty of the Makalu region.

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Highlights

  • Explore high altitude lakes, hanging glaciers, waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes of the Makalu region.
  • Panoramic view of some of the highest mountain peaks in the world, including Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse.
  • Peek in the lifestyle of the Sherpa, Rai, and Gurung people.
  • Enjoy the trek through the verdant forests of Makalu Barun National Park and green pastures of the Barun Valley.
  • Enjoy a homestay at several spots of the trek with warm hospitality.

Day-to-day-Itinerary

Day 1

Fly to Tumlingtar - Drive to Chichila

Day 1 Facts

Trekking Time Average

30mins Flight
60km Drive (Avg 3hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Chichila

Altitude

(1315m./4339ft.)
(1,840m/6035 ft.)

Your journey starts with a fifty minutes flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar in Sankhuwasabha district. This early morning scenic flight offers you a glorious view of mountains and beautiful landscapes of Eastern Nepal. After you arrive in Tumlingtar, our staff will help you with your luggage. Tumlingtar is the deepest valley in Nepal between the Arun and Sabha River. It is the gateway to Makalu Barun National Park and Makalu Base Camp. From Tumlingtar, you’ll drive to Chichila, a beautiful Gurung village. Overnight stay in a lodge at Chichila.

Day 2

Trek to Num

Day 2 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Hike
(Avg 6hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Num

Altitude

(1,500m/4920 ft.)

Today, you’ll kick off your trek from Chichila. You’ll walk through the forested hills of rhododendrons as you appreciate the greenery and vibrant atmosphere. As you continue your trek, you’ll walk past some small and beautiful villages depicting a rural lifestyle. You can also enjoy a distant view of the Himalayas on your way. You’ll stop at Num for an overnight stay in a lodge. Num is a beautiful village between the high hills.

Day 3

Trek to Seduwa

Day 3 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Hike
(Avg 6hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Seduwa

Altitude

(1,540m/5051 ft.)

After Breakfast, you’ll follow the descending trail through beautiful cornfields and lush green forest to a suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge over the Barun River, you’ll enter the protected areas of Makalu Barun National park. The crew members will help you with the legal procedures to enter the national park. You’ll walk uphill through the forests of Makalu Barun that is rich in flora and fauna. The Makalu Barun National Park is home to 3000 species of flowering plants, 440 species of birds, and 75 species of mammals, including snow leopard, red panda, wild boar, musk deer, and Himalayan Thar. After

Day 4

Trek to Tashigaon

Day 4 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Hike
(Avg 4hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Tashigaon

Altitude

(2,070m/6790 ft.)

Today, you’ll follow the trail along the Kasuwa Khola (stream) and climb to Gyang. From there, you’ll walk past the villages of Hindrungma and Rupisa. Throughout your way, you’ll encounter terraced fields of maize (corn), buckwheat, and potato that give you some glimpses of the rural agrarian lifestyle. During the five hours trek, you’ll cross several streams and bridges to stop at Tashigaon finally. This beautiful Sherpa village will offer you homestay with warm hospitality.

Day 5

Trek to Khongma

Day 5 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Hike
(Avg 6hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Khongma

Altitude

(3,560m/11,676 ft.)

As you climb higher from Tashigaon, you’ll walk through steep slopes and rocky trails that make the trek a little challenging. You’ll encounter herds of Yaks and sheep grazing in the beautiful Himalayan pastures. At Unshisa, you’ll again enter the protected areas of Makalu Barun National Park. After six hours walk through the green meadows, dense forest, and stony trails, you’ll arrive at Khongma for an overnight stay. You’ll relish the warm hospitality of local people.

Day 6

Acclimatization day/Exploring around.

As this a high altitude trek, acclimatization is necessary to cope with the thin air and to adapt oneself to the environment. Today, you’ll get a chance to interact with the local people and peek into their culture and tradition. A visit to the Buddhist monasteries around the village will offer an opportunity to learn about Buddhist traditions. Overnight stay at Khongma Danda.

Day 7

Head to Dobato

Day 7 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Hike
(Avg 6hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Dobato

Altitude

(3,650m/11,972 ft.)

The trek to Dobato from Khongma is a strenuous trek through four physically demanding passes. First, you’ll climb to Kauma La Pass (3603 m) and then gear up to Keke Le Pass (4127 m). Finally, you will climb the Shipton La Pass (4170 m), from where you can enjoy the exotic view of Mt. Chamlang, Peak 7, and other stunning mountain peaks. You’ll come across the beautiful Kalo Pokhari Lake (meaning Black Pond in English) near Shipton Pass. After gaining an elevation of 520 m from Khongma (3560 m) to Shipton La Pass (4170 m), you’ll follow a descending trail to Dobato (3650 m). Overnight stay in a lodge at Dobato.

Day 8

Trek to Yangri Kharka

Day 8 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Hike
(Avg 5hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Yangri Kharka

Altitude

(3,600m/11,808 ft.)

After Breakfast, you’ll hit the trail to Yangri Kharka. The trail threads through dense pine and rhododendron forest. The new flush of trees and rhododendron bloom make a heavenly view during spring in this trail. The caravan of yaks along the way and some of them grazing on the pasture is also equally impressive to watch. After walking for about six hours walk, you’ll reach Yangri Kharka. Overnight stay in a lodge at Yangri Kharka.

Day 9

Trek to Merek

Day 9 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Hike
(Avg 5hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Merek

Altitude

(4,500m/14,760 ft.)

Today, you will trek through the forested hills of pine, birch, and rhododendron. You’ll cross several streams and wooden bridges along the way. The beautiful view of the mountain peaks to your north will make you forget your tiredness. After a five hours walk, you’ll reach Merek, another beautiful village in the Makalu region that will welcome you warmheartedly. Homestay at Merek.

Day 10

Trek to Makalu base camp

Day 10 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Hike
(Avg 5hrs)

Accommodation

Camping

Altitude

(4870m. /16071ft.)

From Merek, you’ll follow the trail northward along the Barun River. You’ll cross a bridge and enter into the beautiful Barun valley and climb up to Ripok Kharka. As you climb higher, rhododendron and pine trees start getting replaced by sparse tundra vegetation. On the way, you’ll see an excellent view of Pyramid Peak, Peak 4, Peak 3, and Peak 5. Walking through the icy glaciers and ridges, you’ll finally reach Shershong, from where Mt. Makalu is visible. From Makalu, you’ll continue to reach Makalu Base Camp. Overnight stay in a camp at Makalu Base Camp.

Day 11

Trek to Yangri Kharka

Day 11 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Hike
(Avg 6hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Yangri Kharki

Altitude

(3600m. /11808ft.)

Enjoy the panoramic view of Mt. Makalu (8481 m), Mt. Everest (8848 m), Mt. Lhotse (8516), and other mountain peaks in the Mahalangur mountain range. The serene and pristine environment around the base camp will spellbind you with its beauty. A short hike to Barun glacier and Barun Pokhari will make your trip even more exciting. After spending some quality time at the base camp, you’ll start your return trek to Yangri Kharka, walking through the rocky trail as you enjoy the brownish landscape.  Overnight stay in a lodge at Yangri Kharka.

Day 12

Trek to Khongma

Day 12 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Hike
(Avg 6hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Khongma

Altitude

(3760m. /12408ft.)

After Breakfast, you’ll follow the downstream trail along the beautiful Barun River. Walking through the stony trail and ridges, you will cross a few streams to arrive at Dobato. From Dobato, you’ll ascend to Shipton La Pass and continue your trek to Ke La pass and Kauma La Pass. Finally, you’ll descend to Khongma Danda. Overnight stay in a lodge at Khongma Danda.

Day 13

Trek to Tashigaon

Day 13 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Hike
(Avg 5hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Tashigaon

Altitude

(2090m. /6790ft.)

Today, you’ll make a steep descent from Khongma (3760 m) to Tashigaon (2090 m) with an elevation change of 1670 meters. Throughout this descending trail, you’ll encounter some small and beautiful lakes, enjoy the greenery and beauty of Makalu Barun before exiting. After a trek of five hours along the forest, ridges, and hills, you’ll reach Tashigaon. Overnight stay in a lodge at Tashigaon.

Day 14

Trek to Num

Day 14 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Hike
(Avg 6hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Num

Altitude

(1500m. /4920ft.)

Today, you’ll cross several streams- Isuwa Khola, Hingsa Khola, Kasuwa Khola, just to name a few. You’ll also walk past several settlements, including the village of Seduwa. Those hilly settlements have stone walls and mostly thatched roofs. After walking a couple of hours from Seduwa, you’ll arrive at the Sherpa village of Num. Overnight stay at Num.

Day 15

Trek to Chichila - Drive to Tumlingtar

Day 15 Facts

Trekking Time Average

60km Drive
(Avg 3hrs)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in Tumlingtar

Altitude

285m

It’s the final day of your trek. After Breakfast, you’ll head to Chichila with a sense of pleasure and enthusiasm to accomplish your trek. You’ll walk along this familiar trail, appreciating the greenery of the forests as well as the buckwheat and cornfields. After walking for 5-6 hours, you’ll reach Chichila. From Chichila, you’ll drive to Tumlingtar. Overnight stay at a lodge in Tumlingtar.

Day 16

Fly to Kathmandu overflight

Day 16 Facts

Trekking Time Average

30min Flight

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel in Kathmandu

Altitude

(1295m./4273ft.)

What do you get in the Trip?

Included

  • Tribhuwan International Airport transfer ( Airport – Hotel – Airport ) in Kathmandu.
  • All meals during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ).
  • Lodge accommodation during the trekking.
  • One experienced, well trained, fluent English speaking, friendly, government authorized and specialized in Makalu region trekking guide and required porters ( One porter for two persons ).
  • Guide and porter’s food, accommodation, salary, flight, insurance, transportation and equipments.
  • Overland transportation as per mentioned in itinerary.
  • Both way flight tickets Kathmandu/Tumlingtar/Kathmandu.
  • Makalu-Barun  national park fee and necessary permits ( TIMS)  .
  • A trekking map, first aid medical, oxygen saturation check up everyday,  water purification, company t-shirt, trekking completion certificate and duffle bag.
  • Assistance for emergency rescue evacuation.
  • Government tax and service charge.
  • Public Liability Insurance.

Excluded

  • Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
  • Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, mineral water, beer, desert, laundry, phone bill, hot shower, hot water etc.
  • Personal Travel insurance.
  • Tips for guide and porters.( Highly suggested).

Need a private date?

The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.

Book a private date

ESSENTIAL INFO

The difficulty of the trek

This trek is a very difficult trek for everyone whether you are a rookie or an experienced trekker you need to be mentally and physically fit and strong. Similarly, you should walk some rough roads and suspension bridges. So, overall this trek is very difficult. Not everyone can do it.

Best time for the trek

Makalu Base Camp Trekking is a 16-day trek. So, you should be very careful choosing the time for the trek. Therefore, the best time for the trek is during Spring and Autumn seasons.

Travel insurance

Your travel insurance is very important for this trek. Your insurance company should have insurance for 4000m plus trekking. If this is not covered then it would be difficult for us to take you for this trek.

Meals and accommodation

We will provide you with all meals during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) and Lodge accommodation during the trekking. Similarly, we also provide you with traditional Nepali and western food during the trek. So, the food you experience here is unforgettable.

Required Permits

Makalu Barun National Park Fee : NPR. 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1500 for SAARC.

Note: Child below 10 years are free

Fitness and experience requirements

This is a 16-day trek so, it is obvious that you should be mentally and physically tough for this trek. If you have some health issues (asthma, blood diseases, etc.) then we are afraid that you cannot be a part of this journey. Also, rookie trekkers cannot be part of this trek as well.

Climate and weather

The climate of Makalu Base Camp is always cold and chilly. But it is suitable throughout the year. So, you can trek here any time. Similarly, you will find perfect weather and climate during the spring and autumn seasons for your trek.

Safety and security

The safety and security of our people are very important to us. We are very careful in that case. Similarly, we make sure that our trekkers don’t have any problems during their trek. Likewise, we carefully check our trail before our departure to the trek. So, don’t worry and fully enjoy your trek.

Frequently
Asked Questions

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