M a k a l u B a s e C a m p
Makalu Base Camp, stunning views, trekking, adventure, Himalayas, remote, culture, nature, Mount Makalu, experience.
Region
eastern-nepal
Duration
23 Days
Walk
5 - 7 Hrs
Elevation
5050m
Best Season
Spring/Autumn
Accommodation
Hotel + Lodge + Tent
Price
$3,500 USD
Trip Overview
The Makalu Trek offers a journey through one of Nepal's most diverse and ecologically rich regions, spanning five major ecological zones. Starting from the lush Arun Valley, the trek leads through tropical landscapes, dense rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows, ultimately reaching the majestic Barun Glacier. From the Makalu Base Camp, trekkers are treated to stunning views of Mt. Makalu, the world's fifth-highest peak.
This trek focuses on the sub-tropical Arun Valley, where the lower regions are forested, while the higher terraced slopes are cultivated by local villagers from diverse tribal groups. As you ascend, the landscape transitions into high-altitude fields that border the Makalu-Barun National Park, a significant conservation area known for its biodiversity. This park is home to several threatened species, making the trek not only a natural wonder but also a vital ecological experience. The Makalu Trek is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure through untouched wilderness.
Itinerary
- Day 1Arrival in Kathmandu: Transfer to hotel. Briefing on trekking itinerary. Free time for sightseeing or rest.
- Day 2Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley: Half-day UNESCO tour of Bhaktapur and Kathmandu. Evening Nepali dinner.
- Day 3Kathmandu to Khandbari (1030m) via Tumlingtar (510m): Flight to Tumlingtar, then trek to Khandbari. (4 hrs)
- Day 4Khandbari to Chichira (1840m): Trek through bamboo forests and Gurung settlements. (6 hrs)
- Day 5Chichira to Num (1500m): Gradual ascent, pass Sherpa villages, descend to Num. (6 hrs)
- Day 6Num to Seduwa (1540m): Descend to Arun Koshi, then climb to Seduwa. (5.5 hrs)
- Day 7Seduwa to Tashigaon (2070m): Cross streams and climb to Sherpa village. (5 hrs)
- Day 8Tashigaon to Khongma (3560m): Tough climb to Khongma. (6 hrs)
- Day 9Khongma to Mumbuk (3550m): Pass three passes and rhododendron forest. (7 hrs)
- Day 10Mumbuk to Nghe Kharka (3750m): Descend and cross streams. Reach Nghe Kharka. (6 hrs)
- Day 11Nghe Kharka: Rest day to relax and observe nature.
- Day 12Nghe Kharka to Shersong (4610m): Climb past meadows and moraines. Excellent views of Makalu. (7 hrs)
- Day 13Shersong to Makalu Base Camp (5050m): Steep climb to base camp. Return to Shersong. (6 hrs)
- Day 14Shersong to Yangle Kharka (3600m): Retrace steps back down to Yangle Kharka. (5 hrs)
- Day 15Yangle Kharka to Mumbuk (3550m): Continue descending. (4.5 hrs)
- Day 16Mumbuk to Khongma (3560m): Cross Shipton La, descend to Khongma. (6 hrs)
- Day 17Khongma to Tashigaon (1700m): Long descent into civilization. (4 hrs)
- Day 18Tashigaon to Num (1500m): Retrace route, ascend and descend. (6 hrs)
- Day 19Num to Chichira (1840m): Retrace steps back to Chichira. (6 hrs)
- Day 20Chichira to Mane Bhanjhyang (1100m): Descent to Mane Bhanjhyang. (5.5 hrs)
- Day 21Mane Bhanjhyang to Tumlingtar: Descent to Tumlingtar. (4 hrs)
- Day 22Tumlingtar to Kathmandu: Fly back to Kathmandu and stay overnight.
- Day 23Kathmandu: Depart from Kathmandu.
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off services
- Three nights of hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu
- Licensed and trained trekking guides
- Porters to carry goods and supplies
- All accommodations during the trek
- All meals and hot beverages provided while trekking
- Transportation to and from the trailhead
- All necessary documents and permits for trekking (if applicable)
- National Park or Conservation Area entry permit
- Insurance, medication, and equipment for staff
- Coordination of Quick Rescue service (costs covered by your insurance plan)
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Travel and trekking insurance
- Excess baggage charges for luggage over 16kg and hand baggage over 5kg on domestic flights
- Visa fees for entering Nepal
- Rescue service charges
- Beverages (cold and alcoholic)
- Lunches and dinners not included during trekking