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Makalu Base Camp Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek feature image

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging yet rewarding adventure into one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine regions.

The base camp offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Makalu (8,485 meters), the world’s fifth-highest peak, and Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse.

This trek traverses lush valleys, dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrain, making it a trekker’s paradise.

Start/End

Tumlingtar/ Makalu Camp

Duration

16-20 Days

Altitude

4870 meters

Activity

Tour/ Trekking

Start/End

Tumlingtar/ Makalu Base Camp

Duration

16-20 Days

Altitude

4870 meters

Activity

Tour/ Trekking

Makalu Base Camp Trek Facts

Title Information
Trek Name Makalu Base Camp
Trek Distance Approx. 150 km round trip
Trek Cost for Nepali NRP 30000-50000
Trek Cost for Foreigners USD 1800-2500
Difficulty Challenging
Best Seasons Spring (March-May) and Autumn (Sept-Nov)
Permits Required Restricted Area Permit, Makalu-Barun National Park Permit, TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Accommodation Basic teahouses and camping
Highlights Makalu Base Camp, Barun Valley, Shipton La Pass

Quotation signSpring offers mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, and clear skies, making it the most popular season for trekking to Makalu Base Camp.

Day Wise Itinerary

check-logo Day 1

Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar

Chichila_Makalu
Img.Credit:Flickr|irishmick.com
check-logo Day 2

Trek from Chichila to Num

Img.Credit:Flick|Reiner Aichholz
check-logo Day 3

Trek from Num to Seduwa

Img.Credit:Flick|together for advanture
check-logo Day 4

Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon

Img.Credit:Flickr|together for advanture
check-logo Day 5

Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda

Imag.Credit:Flickr|together for advanture
check-logo Day 6

Acclimatization Day at Khongma Danda

Img.Credit:Flickr|together for advanture
check-logo Day 7

Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate via Shipton La Pass

Img.Credit:Flickr|Adrien Maillot
check-logo Day 8

Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka

Img.Credit:Flickr|Jamie McGuinness
check-logo Day 9

Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka

Img.Credit:Flickr|irishmick.com
check-logo Day 10

Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp

Img.Credit:Flickr|Adrien Maillot
check-logo Day 11

Explore Makalu Base Camp and return to Langmale Kharka

Img.Credit:Flickr|Adrien Maillot
check-logo Day 12-16

Retrace the route back to Tumlingtar

Day Wise Description

Day 1:Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, drive to Chichilla

50 minutes flight and 3-4 hours drive

  • Altitude: Kathamandu (1400 meters) to Chichila (1980 meters)
  • Activities: Take a scenic flight to Tumlingtar and drive through winding roads to Chichila, the starting point of the trek.

Day 2:Trek from Chichila to Num

6-7 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 1,980 meters to 1,560 meters
  • Activities: Trke through rhododendron forests and small villages with views of the Arun Valley

Day 3:Trek from Num to Seduwa

5-6 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 1,560 meters to 1,510 meters
  • Activities: Cross the Arun River and ascend steep trails to reach Seduwa, a small village at the entrance of the Makalu-Barun National Park.

Day 4: Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon

5- 6 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 1,510 meters to 2,070 meters
  • Activities: Gradual ascent through terraced fields and traditional villages to reach Tashigaon, the last settlement before the wilderness.

Day 5:Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda

6-7 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 2,070 meters to 3,620 meters
  • Activities: A challenging day of steep ascents through dense forests to Khongma Danda, with stunning views of Makulu.

Day 6: Acclimiatizatuion Day at Khongma Danda

  • Activities: Rest and acclimatize at Khongma Danda. Optional short hikes to adjust to the altitude.

Day 7: Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate via Shipton La Pass

7-8 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 3,620 meters to 3,650 meters (via 4,220 meters)
  • Activities: Cross the iconic Shipton La Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Descend to Dobate through rugged trails.

Day 8:Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka

5-6 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 3,650 meters to 3,557 meters
  • Activities: Descend through dense forests and walk along the Barun River to reach Yangri Kharka, a serene campsite.

Day 9: Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka

5-6 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 3,557 meters to 4,410 meters
  • Activities: Ascend through alpine meadows with views of Makalu and other peaks. Reach Langmale Kharka, a popular rest stop.

Day 10: Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp

6-7 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 4,410 meters to 4,870 meters
  • Activities: Trek to Makalu Base Camp, with stunning views of Mount Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse. Enjoy the raw beauty of the Himalayan landscape.

Day 11: Explore Makalu Base Camp and return to Langmale Kharka

6–7 hrs walk

  • Altitude: 4,870 meters to 4,410 meters
  • Activities: Spend the day exploring Makalu Base Camp, taking in the breathtaking vistas, and then retrace your steps to Langmale Kharka.

Day 12-16: Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka

  • Activities: Follow the same trail back to Tumlingtar, with overnight stops at Yangri Kharka, Dobate, Tashigaon, and Num.

Packing List for Makalu Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek items
Head
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Feet
  • Trekking boots
  • Woolen socks
  • Body
  • Lightweight trekking jacket
  • Fleece layers
  • Waterproof layers
  • Essential Items
  • Backpack (30–40 liters)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag
  • Cost for Makalu Base Camp

    Cost Topic Cost Approximate(USD)
    Restricted Area Permit(RAP)
    Makalu-Barun National Park Permit
    RAP $100-$120
    National Park $30-$50
    Accommodation (Teahouses) $10–$15/night
    Meals $20–$25/day
    Guide and Porter $25–$30/day (guide), $20/day (porter)
    Flights (Kathmandu–Tumlingtar) $200–$250

     Quotation sign The Makalu Base Camp trek has a unique essence, immersing trekkers in its breathtaking surroundings, pristine nature, and enchanting atmosphere.

    Best Time to Visit

    Spring (March-May):

    Spring offers mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, and clear skies, making it the most popular season for trekking to Makalu Himal Base Camp.

    Summer season flowers
    Autum season season photo

    Autumn (Sept-Nov):

    Autumn is ideal for trekking due to dry weather, stable conditions, and stunning mountain views. The visibility is at its best during this season.

    Autum season season photo

    Ready For The Adventure ?

    The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an unforgettable adventure for experienced trekkers.

    With its challenging trails, high altitudes, and stunning vistas, it offers a unique opportunity to explore Nepal’s untouched wilderness.

    This trek will surely leave you with lifelong memories. So hurry up, grab your bag, gear up, and set out for an unforgettable adventure!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, the Makalu Base Camp trek is regarded as one of the most challenging yet adventurous treks, known for its difficulty and demanding terrain.

    The trek usually takes 16–20 days to complete, depending on factors such as the chosen route, trekking speed, physical fitness, weather conditions, altitude acclimatization, and rest days taken along the way.

    Yes, it falls under a restricted area. The trekker requires Makalu National Park & Conservation Area Permit and Makalu Rural Municipality Permit

    • Two passport size photos
    • Original Passport of your home country.
    • Nepal entry visa stamp on your passport
    • Travel insurance
    • Nepali Rupees