Makalu Base Camp Trek

Your Arrival Time (?) Our office representative will meet and greet you at Kathmandu airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

At. 06:00 PM: In the evening we will meet for a coffee and will brief you on the details of your trek program. You will get every necessary information you need for trekking in the Makalu region. If you arrive after 05:00 PM we will meet for breakfast the next day at your hotel. All your paperwork and permits will be made available to you, to be kept with your guide. In the evening, you can explore the Thamel area. The nightlife around Thamel is vibrant and lively.

At. 10:00 AM: After your breakfast, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites inside Kathmandu in full-day sightseeing of Kathmandu Durbar Square which is one of three ancient formal Royal palaces of Nepal. You can see some of the most influential structures with intricate art designs engraved in them. After Kathmandu durbar square, visit Swayambhunath also known as the Monkey temple located on top of a hill. One must climb hundreds of stairs to reach the top of the hill which can be physically challenging but rewarding as well. Next is Pashupatinath temple which is one of the most revered Hindu temples in Nepal.

Last but not least, Boudhanath Stupa is one of the world's biggest Buddhist stupas. After sightseeing, you can shop for trekking and get the necessary gear from the trekking shops around Thamel. In the evening, the briefing for the trek will be provided by one of our informed office representatives. If you have any queries or want to know anything, you can ask our representative. You will be dropped back at your hotel in a private vehicle. Have dinner at a restaurant on the way to your hotel.

Note: Before leaving for trekking you can leave your extra baggage and items not used in your trekking program at the hotel in Kathmandu as you will return to Kathmandu after your trek and before your departure. Doing so will make your trek easier by reducing your backpack weight.

At. 07:00 AM: You will fly to Tumlingtar and then drive to Num, you will be starting your Makalu Base Camp Trek with a convenient and scenic journey.

1. Fly to Tumlingtar: To begin, you will need to book a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. Flights typically take around 40-50 minutes and offer stunning aerial views of the Nepalese countryside and the Himalayan mountain range. Tumlingtar Airport is a small regional airport located at an altitude of 410 meters (1,345 feet). Upon arrival, you can find basic accommodation options, as well as access to amenities such as restaurants, shops, and internet services.

2. Drive to Num: After arriving in Tumlingtar, you can arrange for a jeep or other vehicle to transport you to Num. The drive usually takes around 4-6 hours, depending on the road conditions and the type of vehicle used. This journey takes you through the picturesque countryside of eastern Nepal, passing through numerous small villages and offering glimpses of the local lifestyle and agriculture.

Upon reaching Num (1,560 meters/5,118 feet), you will have reached the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Num is a small village that offers limited accommodation options in the form of basic teahouses and guesthouses. From Num, you will continue your trek towards Seduwa, Tashigaon, and eventually Makalu Base Camp, following the trail through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, high mountain passes, and rugged terrain.

Flying to Tumlingtar and driving to Num offers a convenient and scenic way to begin the Makalu Base Camp Trek. This journey allows you to skip the long overland journey from Kathmandu and provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of eastern Nepal before embarking on your trekking adventure.

Note: In case the flight does not operate due to technical issues or weather conditions you will travel to Tumlingtar by drive. The second alternative is to drive to Tumlingtar and then to Num Bazaar which is 500 km and will take around 12-15 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

At. 07:00 AM: The trek from Num Village (1,560 meters/5,118 feet) to Seduwa (1,500 meters/4,921 feet) is the first section of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. This part of the trek typically takes one day and covers approximately 6-7 kilometers (3.7-4.3 miles).

From Num, the trail begins with a steep descent through forests and terraced fields towards the Arun River. As you descend, you will be able to enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The descent takes about 2-3 hours, and you will reach a suspension bridge that crosses the Arun River at an altitude of around 620 meters (2,034 feet).

After crossing the river, the trail begins to ascend steeply through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. This uphill section of the trek can be quite challenging, as you gain approximately 880 meters (2,887 feet) in altitude. The ascent takes about 3-4 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Upon reaching Seduwa, you will find a small village with basic teahouses and guesthouses providing accommodation and meals for you. Seduwa also has a checkpoint for the Makalu Barun National Park, where you will need to present your permits and register your entry into the park.

The trek from Num Village to Seduwa marks the beginning of the Makalu Base Camp Trek and involves a combination of steep descents and challenging ascents. This section of the trek offers you the opportunity to enjoy the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of the region while experiencing the local culture and agriculture in the lower reaches of the Himalayas.

At. 07:00 AM: Today you will cross meadows and several streams and then climb to the Sherpa village. Crossing the hillside through the quiet valley and passing by small paddy fields (Seasonal crops), you will reach the exotic village of Sherpa (Tashi Gaun or Tashigaon which means good fortune in the Native language). There is a checkpoint in Seduwa where you have to show your permit before entering Makalu Barun national park. Once there, You are surrounded by spectacular mountains. The distance between Seduwa to Tashi Gaun is 8.2 km which you can cover in 5-6 hours. Overnight at a comfortable teahouse.

At. 07:00 AM: Today's trek will be a bit of a challenge for us as you walk through the Steep trail at a high elevation. You will ascend through the forest to a stream and then onto a ridge. Upon reaching Unshisa, you enter Makalu Barun national park. From here it's a short way to Khongma Danda (Kauma or Khongma Danda). The distance is between 7 km which you can cover in 7-8 hours as the trail is a bit challenging today. Overnight at a comfortable teahouse.

At. 07:00 AM: Today’s part of the trek usually takes one day and involves crossing the Shipton La pass (4,200 meters/13,780 feet). From Khongma Danda, the trail ascends steeply through dense rhododendron and pine forests, eventually giving way to more open terrain as the altitude increases. The hike can be strenuous due to the steep ascent and the thinning air at higher altitudes.

As you approach Shipton La pass, the trail becomes more gradual and traverses a series of small lakes before reaching the pass itself. Shipton La offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a great spot to rest and take in the scenery. The pass is named after the British mountaineer Eric Shipton, who explored the region in the early 20th century. After crossing the Shipton La pass, the trail descends steeply through alpine meadows and lush forests towards the small settlement of Dobate. The descent can be challenging due to the steep and sometimes slippery trail. It is essential to take your time, maintain a steady pace, and be mindful of your footing.

Once in Dobate, trekkers usually set up camp for the night before continuing their journey towards Makalu Base Camp. Since the region is remote and has limited teahouses, camping is the primary accommodation option. Make sure you have adequate camping gear and supplies, or join an organized trekking group that provides these services. The Khongma Danda to Dobate section of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging but rewarding day, with stunning views of the Himalayas and the satisfaction of conquering the Shipton La pass.

At. 07:00 AM: From Dobate, the trail descends gradually through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, following the Barun River. The path then goes through a series of small settlements and pastures, providing you with glimpses of local life and agriculture. As the trail continues, it remains relatively flat, making this section more comfortable than the previous day's steep ascent and descent.

As you approach Yangri Kharka, the landscape becomes more open, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Yangri Kharka is a seasonal yak grazing pasture situated in a wide valley surrounded by towering mountains. This location serves as an ideal spot for setting up camp and resting for the night. Accommodation in Yangri Kharka is limited, with only a few basic teahouses available. Most trekkers choose to camp in the area, either bringing their own camping gear or joining an organized trekking group that provides tents, food, and other necessary equipment which is optional

The Dobate to Yangri Kharka section of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is less challenging compared to the previous day's hike but still offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and an opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and landscape. The relatively flat terrain allows you to enjoy the beauty of the region at a more leisurely pace. Overnight at the teahouse.

At. 07:00 AM: From Yangri Kharka, the trail continues to follow the Barun River, gradually ascending through a beautiful valley with dense rhododendron and juniper forests. As the altitude increases, the vegetation becomes more sparse, giving way to a more rugged and arid landscape. During this section of the trek, you may encounter wildlife such as blue sheep, mountain goats, and various species of birds.

As you approach Langmale Kharka, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, but the reward is the stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, including Mt. Makalu, Chamlang, and other neighboring mountains. Langmale Kharka is a seasonal grazing pasture located in a wide valley with a few basic teahouses providing limited accommodation options.

Most trekkers choose to camp at Langmale Kharka, either bringing their own camping equipment or joining an organized trekking group that provides tents, food, and other necessary supplies. Camping in this beautiful location offers an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a serene, peaceful atmosphere.

The Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka section of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is moderately challenging due to the increased altitude and steep ascent, but the reward is the stunning mountain views and the unique experience of camping in the heart of the Himalayas. This part of the trek brings you closer to the ultimate goal of reaching Makalu Base Camp and offers an opportunity to witness the beauty and majesty of the high-altitude landscape. This part of the trek usually takes a day and covers approximately 8-10 kilometers (5-6.2 miles) Overnight at the local teahouse.

At. 07:00 AM: The section from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp is the final and most anticipated part of the Makalu Base Camp Trek, taking you from Langmale Kharka (4,410 meters/14,468 feet) to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 meters/15,978 feet). This part of the trek usually takes one day and covers approximately 6-8 kilometers (3.7-5 miles).

From Langmale Kharka, the trail continues to ascend gradually through the barren alpine landscape, following the Barun River valley. As you approach Shersong (4,572 meters/14,993 feet), the trail flattens out, and you'll pass through a wide, rocky plain. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged, offering striking views of the surrounding peaks, including Mt. Makalu, Chamlang, Baruntse, and other nearby mountains.

Upon reaching Makalu Base Camp, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the mighty Mt. Makalu, the world's fifth-highest peak, as well as its neighboring peaks. The base camp itself is a temporary settlement of tents set up by climbers during the climbing season. At Makalu Base Camp, you can take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, visit the Barun Glacier, and admire the breathtaking scenery of the Himalayas up close. After spending a night at the base camp, trekkers usually begin their descent back to Tumlingtar, retracing their steps or taking an alternative route, depending on their preference and experience.

The Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp section of the trek is moderately challenging due to the high altitude and rugged terrain, but the reward is the awe-inspiring views of Mt. Makalu and its neighboring peaks. This part of the trek is the culmination of the entire journey, providing you with a sense of accomplishment and a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of the Himalayas.

At. 08:00 AM: Once you reach Makalu Base Camp (4,870 meters/15,978 feet), it is highly recommended to spend a day exploring and acclimatization. This will allow your body to adjust to the high altitude and allow you to discover the unique landscape and environment surrounding the base camp. Here are some of the activities and sights to explore around Makalu Base Camp:

1. Barun Glacier: A visit to the Barun Glacier is an excellent way to witness the raw power and beauty of the Himalayas. The glacier lies to the east of Makalu Base Camp and offers stunning views of icefalls, crevasses, and towering seracs. You can observe the glacier from a safe distance, as venturing too close can be dangerous due to the risk of avalanches and falling ice.

2. Panoramic Views: Makalu Base Camp offers spectacular panoramic views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Mt. Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, Chamlang, Baruntse, and other neighboring mountains. Take some time to soak in the breathtaking scenery, capture photographs, or simply sit and marvel at the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.

3. Wildlife and Flora: The area around Makalu Base Camp is home to diverse wildlife, including blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, and several bird species. While exploring the area, keep an eye out for these elusive creatures. Additionally, you may encounter unique alpine flora, such as rhododendrons, junipers, and other high-altitude plants.

4. Interact with Climbers: During the climbing season, Makalu Base Camp serves as a temporary settlement for climbers attempting to summit Mt. Makalu. This provides an opportunity to interact with climbers from around the world, learn about their experiences, and gain insight into the world of high-altitude mountaineering.

5. Side Trips: If you have extra time and energy, you can consider taking short side trips to nearby viewpoints or high passes for even more stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. However, it is essential to be cautious and well-prepared when venturing beyond the base camp, as the terrain can be challenging, and the weather can change rapidly.

Spending a day at Makalu Base Camp for exploration and acclimatization allows you to fully appreciate the beauty and magnificence of the Himalayas, as well as provides a unique opportunity to interact with fellow climbers and learn about the local environment and wildlife. Remember to stay safe, respect the fragile ecosystem, and savor the unforgettable experience of being in the heart of the world's highest mountain range.

At. 07:00 AM: After spending a day exploring and acclimatizing at Makalu Base Camp (MBC), trekkers usually begin their descent back towards Tumlingtar. One of the first sections of the return journey involves trekking from Makalu Base Camp (4,870 meters/15,978 feet) to Yangle Kharka (3,610 meters/11,843 feet), which is also known as Yangri Kharka. This part of the trek typically takes one day and covers approximately 14-16 kilometers (8.7-10 miles). From Makalu Base Camp, the trail retraces the same path followed during the ascent, heading back through the rugged and arid landscape towards Shersong and Langmale Kharka. As you descend, you'll enjoy the same breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Mt. Makalu, Chamlang, Baruntse, and other neighboring mountains.

After passing through Langmale Kharka, continue descending along the Barun River valley. The vegetation becomes denser as you lose altitude, with rhododendron and juniper forests gradually reappearing along the trail. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and various bird species can often be spotted in this area. Upon reaching Yangle Kharka, you'll find a wide valley with a few basic teahouses and a seasonal yak grazing pasture. As accommodation options are limited, most trekkers choose to camp in this picturesque location, either bringing their camping equipment or joining an organized trekking group that provides tents, food, and other necessary supplies.

The Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka section of the trek is mostly downhill and less strenuous than the ascent. The descent allows you to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas from a different perspective while retracing your steps through the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of the Barun River valley.

At. 07:00 AM: After spending the night at Yangle Kharka, the next section of the return journey from Makalu Base Camp involves trekking from Yangle Kharka (3,610 meters/11,843 feet) to Dobate (3,570 meters/11,712 feet). This part of the trek usually takes one day and covers approximately 10-12 kilometers (6-7.5 miles).

From Yangle Kharka, the trail continues to descend along the Barun River valley, retracing the same path followed during the ascent. The trail passes through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, offering you a chance to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Himalayan wilderness. As you descend, the terrain becomes more gentle, and you'll pass through a series of small settlements and pastures, providing glimpses of local life and agriculture. Throughout this section of the trek, the views of the surrounding peaks, including Mt. Makalu, Chamlang, and other neighboring mountains, remain impressive.

Upon reaching Dobate, you'll find a small settlement with a few basic teahouses providing limited accommodation options. Most trekkers choose to camp in the area, either bringing their camping gear or joining an organized trekking group that provides tents, food, and other necessary equipment. The Yangle Kharka to Dobate section of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is primarily downhill and less challenging compared to the ascent. This part of the descent offers you the opportunity to enjoy the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of the Barun River valley while retracing their steps through the beautiful Himalayan wilderness.

At. 07:00 AM: After spending the night at Dobate, the next section of the return journey from Makalu Base Camp involves trekking from Dobate (3,570 meters/11,712 feet) to Tashigaon (2,100 meters/6,889 feet). This part of the trek usually takes one day and covers approximately 11-13 kilometers (7-8 miles). From Dobate, the trail begins with a steep ascent towards the Shipton La pass (4,200 meters/13,780 feet), which you crossed during the earlier part of the trek. The trail passes through beautiful alpine meadows and lush forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Once you've reached and crossed the Shipton La pass, the trail descends steeply through rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forests towards Khongma Danda (3,500 meters/11,483 feet). The descent can be challenging due to the steep and sometimes slippery trail, so be sure to maintain a steady pace and be mindful of your footing. After passing through Khongma Danda, the trail continues to descend, passing through several small villages and terraced fields until you reach the larger village of Tashigaon. Tashigaon is the last major settlement before entering the Makalu Barun National Park, and it serves as an important checkpoint and resting point for trekkers.

Accommodation options in Tashigaon are more abundant compared to the higher-altitude settlements, with several teahouses and guesthouses available for you to rest and recuperate. These teahouses provide basic amenities such as meals, hot showers, and charging facilities which cost extra charge according to the teahouse policy. The Dobate to Tashigaon section of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a mix of challenging ascents and steep descents, passing through diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and terraced fields. This part of the trek provides a glimpse of local life and agriculture in the lower reaches of the Himalayas, and it marks the beginning of the final stretch of the return journey from Makalu Base Camp.

At. 07:00 AM: After spending the night at Tashigaon, the final leg of the return journey from Makalu Base Camp involves trekking from Tashigaon (2,100 meters/6,889 feet) to Num (1,560 meters/5,118 feet), followed by a drive to Tumlingtar (410 meters/1,345 feet). From Tashigaon, the trail descends through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. This section of the trek covers approximately 11-13 kilometers (7-8 miles) and takes around 5-6 hours to complete.

Upon reaching Num, you will have completed the trekking portion of your journey. At Num, you can arrange for a jeep or other vehicle to transport you to Tumlingtar. The drive usually takes around 4-6 hours, depending on the road conditions and the type of vehicle used. The journey to Tumlingtar takes you through the picturesque countryside of eastern Nepal, passing through numerous small villages and offering glimpses of the local lifestyle and agriculture.

Upon arriving in Tumlingtar, you can find comfortable accommodation options, including guesthouses and hotels, as well as access to various amenities such as restaurants, shops, and internet services. Tumlingtar is also home to an airport, which offers regular flights to Kathmandu and other destinations in Nepal. Most trekkers choose to spend a night in Tumlingtar before flying out to their next destination. The Tashigaon to Num section of the Makalu Base Camp Trek marks the completion of the trekking adventure. The subsequent drive from Num to Tumlingtar provides a comfortable and scenic way to return to civilization, allowing you to reflect on your unforgettable journey in the heart of the Himalayas.

At. 09:00 AM: Have breakfast at the teahouse/local lodge and move towards the Tumlingtar Airport. You will reach Kathmandu in around 45 mins. Once you land in Kathmandu, your transportation will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel in Kathmandu.

You will have your day leisurely, you will have enough free time for shopping or roaming around Kathmandu Valley. However, if you want to go for authentic shopping for items such as handmade goods for souvenirs, and treat yourself to a relaxing spa after a week-long trek Thamel is the place for you. Enjoy the leisure time as you wish, and in the evening, join us for a traditional Nepali Dinner (Thakali Cuisine) with a live performance of folk songs as a farewell (If you want to visit other places, we can arrange it for you with extra add-ons)

Note: Collect your extra baggage from the hotel before your trek. (If you left your extra baggage)

You will have breakfast at the hotel and then have free time. Our office representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International airport 3 hours before your flight time for airport formality. Carry loads of souvenirs, memories, and lifetime experiences back home, and Have a safe home return! We hope you enjoyed the trip! If you plan to extend your stay, we (Altitude Himalaya) are happy to make your visit memorable and enjoyable.