Overview The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that takes you to the pristine and remote region of Makalu-Barun National Park in eastern Nepal. This trek also offers a unique opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of the Himalayas and witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and traditional local cultures. The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a thrilling drive to the village of Num. From there, the trek also gradually ascends through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and terraced farmlands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural grandeur…
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that takes you to the pristine and remote region of Makalu-Barun National Park in eastern Nepal. This trek also offers a unique opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of the Himalayas and witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and traditional local cultures.
The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a thrilling drive to the village of Num. From there, the trek also gradually ascends through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and terraced farmlands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural grandeur of the region. As you venture higher, the trail unfolds spectacular vistas of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world.
The trekking route traverses through traditional Sherpa villages like Seduwa, Tashi Gaon, and Khongma, where you can experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Along the way, you’ll also pass suspension bridges, glacial rivers, and cascading waterfalls, adding to the charm of the journey. The diverse wildlife of Makalu-Barun National Park will captivate you, with chances to spot endangered species like the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and elusive snow leopard.
As you approach Makalu Base Camp, located at an elevation of approximately 4,870 meters (15,978 feet), you’ll also be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga. The sight of the massive Barun Glacier and the surrounding Himalayan wilderness will leave you humbled and inspired.
The descent follows a slightly different trail, offering new perspectives and allowing you to retrace your steps while cherishing the memories of the journey. The trek concludes with a drive back to Tumlingtar and a flight to Kathmandu.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging endeavor, requiring good physical fitness and previous trekking experience. However, the rewards are immeasurable, as you embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of the most remote and captivating regions of Nepal. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, immerse yourself in local cultures, and create lifelong memories in the lap of the Himalayas.
Today you will be taking a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. Enjoy the stunning view of the snowcapped mountains from your aircraft’s window. Further, you will be driving on the meandering hilly road to the small town of Kandbari. You will get a glimpse of a rural hillside village, and you will be driving on the road lined with bamboo and sal trees. A drive further will take you to the Gurung village of Chichira, also the trailhead of your trek.
Overnight in Chichira.
Today you will begin your trek after having breakfast. You will be trekking past traditional hillside villages and trekking through lush forest to Num. The village of Num is perched on a ridge and offers a stunning view on both sides.
Overnight in Num.
Today you will begin your trek after having breakfast. You will be trekking past traditional hillside villages and trekking through lush forest to Num. The village of Num is perched on a ridge and offers a stunning view on both sides. Overnight in Num.
You will be walking on an ascending and descending trail. Walk on a big and steep descending trail to the Arun River, and the trail features big stone steps to the river. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of rural Nepal on the way. Cross the suspension bridge over the Arun River and hike on a meandering trail before hiking on an ascending trail to Seduwa. En route, you will be trekking past giant bamboo trees and lively villages filled with traditional houses, small shops, and tea houses spread across the hillside. Moreover, you will be entering Makalu Barun National Park, and there is also a checkpoint to register the permits. Overnight in Seduwa.
We shall begin our trek with the checking up of our permits in the entry checkpoint in this village and then ascend through the rhododendron and bamboo forest to move out of the valley. Navigate the ways through terraced fields to reach the settlement of Manigaon. Here onwards, we shall trek through the forest, beautiful farmlands, and school to reach the Tashigaon village, the last village in our walk into Makalu Base Camp or before Chhukung in the Everest region. We settle for today in this village, i.e. have an overnight stay in Tashigaon village.
Today we have a longish trekking day before we hike across the challenging pass of Shipton La. We shall begin our trek with the steep ascent through the dense forest with rhododendron and oak trees. After trekking for some time the trail gradually starts to open up to the view of more rhododendron forest and we shall continue through to the small settlement at Chipla village. March ahead in the trail along the ridge to continue for the destination of Khongma Danda. This settlement has few teahouse lodges with comfortable facilities even for a tented terrace. Stay overnight in Khongma Danda.
Today you will be spending the day acclimatizing at Khongma Danda. You can either choose to relax or go on a hike to Khongma La, situated at an altitude of 3,890m/2,762ft. However, going on a day hike is highly recommended as you will better acclimatize before crossing high passes the next day.
The day hike begins with climbing stone steps, and the trail is lined with rhododendron trees. It takes around an hour to reach Khongma La Pass and enjoy the view from the pass. Retrace your steps back to Khongma Danda. Overnight in Khongma Danda.
The trek to Dobate will be one of the trek’s major highlights as you will be traversing high passes overlooking a stunning view. You will be ascending on a trail filled with rhododendron trees before reaching Khongma La, situated at an elevation of 3,890m/12,762ft. Khongma La rewards you with the stunning view of an astounding mountain like Makalu and Chamlang. Upon descending for a brief, you will climb up and walk on a ridge before reaching Sano Pokhari Danda. Enjoy the view of the Sano Pokhari Lake situated right below Sano Pokhari Danda. A trek on a steep and ascending trail takes you to Shipton La, located at an altitude of 4,229m/13,874ft. You will see fluttering prayer flags and mani walls with mantras in this pass.
Further, you will be descending to Kalo Pokhari Lake, which lies at 4,080m/13,386ft. Pilgrims pay a visit to this holy lake on the occasion of the Janai Purnima festival. Continue your trek to Keke La, situated at an elevation of 4,170m/13,681ft. Enjoy the view of snowcapped mountain ranges from Keke La. A walk on a descending trail through a stunning valley will take you to Dobate. Overnight in Dobate.
Enjoy a pleasant trek on a descending trail through a forest filled with rhododendron, redstarts, minivets, and pine trees. The trail steeply descends towards Barun River through the forest, and you need to be extra cautious if there is snow. Enjoy the view of snowy mountains like Chanlang and Tutse. Upon trekking on an ascending trail, you will reach Themathang Kharka. On the way will also come across an impressive waterfall. Moreover, you will be crossing a wooden bridge, walking on rugged terrain before reaching Yangle Kharka. Overnight in Yangle Kharka.
You will be walking on a descending trail and trekking past the river and small monastery. Enjoy a walk through a jungle and bask in the gorgeous view of dramatic cliffs on the other side. Also, you will see astounding views of the mountain ranges. It will be a pleasant trek in comparatively flat land. Walk past pastures of Jhak Khark, Yak Kharka, and Merek before reaching Lagmale Kharka. Trek past Mani walls and watch prayer flags flutter with a breeze. Overnight in Langmale Kharka.
Today you will be spending a day acclimatizing at Langmale Kharka. You can either choose to relax or go on a hike to a nearby hill. Going on a hike will help you acclimatize to the rising altitude better, and your guide can suggest the best. Overnight in Langmale Kharka.
The mountain scenery along the trail is amazing, and mountains like Peak 6, Peak 7, and Peak 4 will greet you. You will be walking on ascending trail gradually and trekking past a river. Each bend on the trail will open up to a stunning mountain view. You will be trekking past boulders, hiking on a sandy trail, and traversing few steeper sections. The marvelous view of Peak 4 appears before entering a wide flat area of Sherson. Overnight in Sherson.
Today you will be trekking to the Makalu Base Camp, the 5th highest mountain on earth. Also, you will see Makalu along with its formidable face featuring icefalls, crevasses, jagged edges, and seracs. You will be trekking on the trail with many bends. Further, the trail descends, and you will be crossing the river before reaching the Makalu Base Camp situated at 4,900m or 16,076ft. It is also the highest point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Makalu dominates the skyline of base camp, and you will also notice Tibetan snowcocks, black redstarts, hill pigeons, and others here. Overnight in Makalu Base Camp.
Makalu Base camp is a barren and rocky area with a big Barun Glacier beyond it. You will be spending a day in Makalu Base Camp and exploring the area. If you want some easier options, then go on a hike to see the lakes beyond the Makalu Base Camp. Also, you can climb a short ridge right above the base camp marked by prayer flags.
If you want some adventure, go on a day hike to the ridge that overlooks the awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views. Cross the river and hike on a rugged ascending trail to the vantage point overlooking mountain ranges. Savor the up-close view of mountains like Makalu, Peak 7, Peak 6, and Peak 4. Also, you will see mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and others. After basking in the marvelous mountain views, retrace your steps back to the base camp. A strenuous hike on a steep trail and an altitude of over 5,000 meters will be an added challenge. Overnight in Makalu Base Camp.
Today you will be leaving for Yangle Kharka and hiking back on the same route as before. You will be descending and trekking past Sherson, Langale Kharka, Merek before reaching Yangri Kharka. Moreover, you will be trekking through dense pine forest to Yangle Khara. Enjoy the scenic mountain view en route. Overnight in Yangle Kharka.
Enjoy a pleasant walk following the meandering river to Themathang. You will be trekking on a trail lined with rhododendron trees and a crossing bridge adorned with prayer flags before reaching Themathang. Traverse the landslide area with extra caution, and you will come across an area with a narrow path. Bask in the amazing mountain view and ascend on a steep trail through the rhododendron forest. A trek on a rugged terrain past lush green forest and valley will take you to Dobate. Overnight in Dobate.
Savor the breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga on your trek to Khongma Danda. You will be traversing high passes and taking the same route as before. Ascend to Keke La Pass and gradually make your way to Shipton La, also known as Tutu La Pass. Continue the trek overlooking mountain views on your way to Sano Pokhari Danda that holds religious significance for the Hindus. Moreover, you will be trekking to Khongma La, which is marked by a mani wall. Upon descending stone steps, you will reach Khongma. You might get a chance to see blood pheasant roaming in the snow between the rhododendron bushes in Khongma. Overnight in Khongma.
You will mostly be walking on a descending trail. Enjoy a hike through a rhododendron forest and trek past giant rock and prayer flags marking Unshisa Pass. Continue your trek to Dhara with an eatery serving food and refreshments. It is a popular stopover among trekkers. Further, hike through dense forest filled with rhododendron and magnolia trees. A trek in spring is colorful with rhododendron blooms. Across a river lies the Sherpa village of Tashigaon. Overnight in Tashigaon.
Retrace your steps back to Seduwa from Tashigaon, with which you will also be exiting the Makalu Barun National Park. Climb down the stone steps and cross the bridge, followed by a jungle walk through dense forest. Moreover, you will be crossing several bridges. The forest is home to many birds, so you will hear birds chirping during the trek. Also, you will see farms dotted on the hillside, and watch out for cardamom plants. Upon trekking past Mani walls and descending stone stairs, you will reach Seduwa. Overnight in Seduwa.
Start the day with a hike past a lively village and giant bamboo groves. Continue your trek on a meandering trail to the Arun River. Upon crossing the suspension bridge, you will get to see a beautiful landscape of rural Nepal. Further, you will be trekking on big stone steps and following the descending river. The trail ascends and descends and passes through a lush green forest to the village of Num. Overnight in Num.
Take a scenic drive to Tumlingtar on the meandering hilly roads of Nepal. Moreover, you will see hillside villages, terrace farms along with the stunning view of snowy mountains and verdant hills. Rest and relax before leaving for Kathmandu. Overnight in Tumlingtar.
Today you will be taking a domestic flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. Enjoy the stunning view of the Himalayan landscape along with snowy mountain ranges and verdant hills from the comfort of your aircraft. After reaching Kathmandu, you will check into a hotel. Relax after a tiring trek, or you can explore the bustling city of Kathmandu and stroll in the streets of Thamel. Overnight in Kathmandu.
The day of saying goodbye has arrived. A representative from Nepal Challenge Trek will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport around 3 hours before your scheduled international flight. You will be flying out of Kathmandu with beautiful memories to cherish for a lifetime.
1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. 4 Nights Accommodation in the 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast)
5. All accommodation during the trek.
6. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
7. Transportation to and from trail head.
8. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
9. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Equipment such as tents And Mattresses, Cooking Equipment, Camp site charges, Insurance, and
equipment for the staffs.
10. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
11. Trekking staffs wages etc.
12. 1 hr. trekker massage after your trek.
1. International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu.
10. Domestic Ticket Etc.
The park is located in the Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts of Nepal and is known for its diverse landscapes and stunning views of the Himalayas.
The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, from where you will begin your trek to Chichila, Num, Seduwa, Tashi Gaun, Khongma, Mumbuk, and finally to Makalu Base Camp. The trek usually takes around 16-18 days, depending on the itinerary.
During the trek, you will encounter stunning mountain views, beautiful valleys, and scenic landscapes. You will also get to experience the local culture and traditions of the Rai and Sherpa communities, who reside in the region. The trek is challenging, as it involves crossing high mountain passes and steep ascents and descents.
Overall, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a great adventure for those seeking a challenging and rewarding trekking experience in the eastern region of Nepal.