Makalu Base Camp Trek
A pristine trek into the isolated, rugged wilderness of the world's fifth highest mountain
Overview
An off-the-beaten-path masterpiece for serious trekkers. This route goes from low-altitude tropical valleys up through the cloud forests of Makalu Barun National Park to a dramatic base camp.
Route Map
Interactive route map — Coming in Phase 2
Itinerary
Hotel arrival transfers and verification of restricted area permits.
Domestic flight to the low-lying valley of Tumlingtar, followed by a bumpy jeep drive up to Chichila ridge.
Walk along scenic ridge pathways through small bamboo clusters down to Num village.
Descend steeply to the rushing Arun River, cross the bridge, and climb up the opposite side to Seduwa.
Walk through farm terraces and small cardamom plantations to the last permanent Sherpa outpost at Tashigaon.
A demanding uphill climb out of the trees into the high alpine ridges of Khongma.
Mandatory high-altitude physiological check and rest day in preparation for the high pass days.
Cross four consecutive high passes including Shipton La, descending down into the remote Mumbuk valley forest.
Follow the canyon trails alongside the Barun River into the broad meadow valleys of Yangle Kharka.
Rest day to adjust to the high valleys, exploring small local rock shrines and frozen river runoffs.
Ascend past old glacial moraines and wood pastures into the high alpine meadow of Langmale.
Trek through high rocky terrain up into the grand amphitheater of Makalu Base Camp (4,870m).
Hike up the surrounding lateral ridges for views of the immense South Face of Makalu, Lhotse, and Everest.
Retrace your steps down from the rocky high country back down into the safer pastures of Yangle Kharka.
Climb back across the Shipton La passes from the Barun valley to return to Khongma.
A long, joint-jarring descent back down into the thick forests and warm air of Tashigaon.
Walk back across the valleys to Seduwa, descending to cross the Arun River before climbing to Num.
Catch a local jeep transport tracking the rough ridge roads back to the airstrip town of Tumlingtar.
Fly back to Kathmandu; pick up international airport connections for evening flights.
What's Included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu hotel accommodation (as per itinerary)
- Tea house or lodge accommodation during the trek
- All standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service (as per package policy)
- Trekking permits and TIMS card
- First aid medical kit
- Government taxes and service charges
Not Included
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
- Personal trekking equipment and gear
- Snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks
- Hot shower, Wi-Fi, and battery charging during the trek
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses and laundry
Requirements
Fitness
Moderate fitness required; regular hiking or cardio recommended.
Experience
No high-altitude experience required; prior multi-day hikes are helpful.
Gear
Warm layers, trekking boots, sleeping bag, and rain gear are required.
Trek Details
Distance
4,870m
Duration
19 Days
Max Elevation
4,870m
Start Point
Difficulty
Hard
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
From
$2,400
per person