Makalu Base Camp Trek
Trip Facts
Trip Highlights
- Makalu Barun National Park.
- Adventurous trek to Makalu Base Camp.
- Witness the rural life of Nepal’s distinct Gurung, Rai and Sherpa cultures.
- Spot some of the rarest wildlife in Nepal, including the Red Panda and snow leopard.
- Explore the pristine eight-thousanders and other high peaks.
- Trek through river gorges, sheer cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, high-altitude lakes etc.
Trip Overview
The Makalu Base Camp is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas 19 km (12mi) southwest of Mt. Everest (8,849m) on the border of Nepal and Tibet Autonomous Region, China. One of the eight-thousanders, Makalu is an isolated peak whose shape is a four-sided pyramid. Makalu is one of the most difficult eight-thousanders and is considered one of the most difficult mountains in the world to climb. The mountain is notorious for its steep pitches and knife-edge ridges.
Makalu Barun Valley is a glacier valley situated at the base of Makalu situated in the Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal (8,463 m). This valley entirely lies inside the Makalu Barun National Park. Makalu Barun National Park provides stunning contrasts, where high waterfalls cascade into a deep gorge, rough rocks rise from the lush green forest and colourful wildflowers bloom beneath white snow peaks.
The unique landscape is a sanctuary to some of the last pristine mountain ecosystems in the world. Rare species of animals (Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear and Snow Leopard) and vegetation can be found here. It's known for its unspoiled nature as it is situated in one of the rural areas of Nepal and not many people can travel there due to its remote trail.
Makalu Base Camp Trekking takes about two weeks. The fifth highest mountain in the world, Mount Makalu lies at an elevation of 8463 m. It is situated in the Makalu Barun National Park, which covers an area of 2330 sq. km extending around the Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts of Nepal. And, the panorama of the highest mountain in the world such as Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Chamlang, Makalu and other mountains greets you. Makalu base camp trek can be fairly challenging in some parts depending upon your level of physical fitness. The outstanding scenery of Makalu Base Camp Trek’s route significantly provides unique cultural heritage and incredible views of mountain peaks. From Makalu Base Camp there are spectacular views of the rarely seen Kangshung face of Everest, as well as Lhotse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga in the far east.
Gurung, Rai, Sherpa, and Shingsawa (Bhotia) are the main habitats in this area. The trails follow the beautiful Barun river valley in the Makalu Barun National Park, crossing Shiptons Pass before arriving at Makalu Base Camp, from here views of the south face of Makalu, as well as Everest and Lhotse, are amazing. Also, you will have an unbelievable view of mountains, glacier lake and Hungu valley.
The Makalu Barun National Park is home to 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 species of birds, 800 species of butterflies, and 75 species of mammals including the snow leopard (Heung Chituwa), red panda (Habre), musk deer ( Kasturi Mirga), wild boar, wild yak (Ban Chauri) and the Himalayan Thar. With the possibility of spotting wildlife at lower altitudes, green pastures and fields, villages, and forests, combined with snow-capped mountains, glaciers and rocky trails, this is also ideal photography territory deeper into the mountains, past the Barun River Valley, you will pass steep granite cliffs, glaciers, and spectacular waterfalls. At the higher elevations live the Sherpa people, an ethnically Tibetan group who predominantly reside near Everest.
Best Time to Visit
March-May and September-November are the best times for Makalu Base Camp trek, as the weather is likely to be the finest and the temperatures good (particularly at low and mid-elevations). It is possible to do this trek in the winter months, but the cold temperatures might be a drawback, especially as the lodges in this region aren’t especially well equipped.
Route Map
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival at Kathmandu
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Fly to Tumlingtar and drive to Num Village
Trek to Seduwa
Trek to Tashi Gaun
Trek to Khong Danda
Trek to Dobato
Trek to Yangri Kharka (Yangle Kharka)
Trek to Langmale Kharkha
Trek to Makalu Base Camp (MBC)
Makalu Base Camp (MBC) Exploration
Trek to Yangle Kharka
Trek to Khongma Danda
Trek to Num
Drive to Tumlingtar and Fly to Kathmandu
Departure
Trip Guide
The information about the Makalu Base Camp Trek is in-depth; feel free to contact us 24/7. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. Altitude Himalaya aims to offer the best possible travel experience to the customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How difficult is Makalu Base Camp Trek?
This is a difficult level trek. One must climb a steep hill during the trek. A physically fit and mentally calm person can complete this trek easily.
-
Which is the best time to visit Makalu Base Camp?
Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (September, October and November) are the best time to visit Makalu Base Camp as the weather is likely to be the finest and the temperature is good (particularly at low and mid-elevations).
-
What is the age limit for trekking in Nepal?
Mt. Makalu (8,485 meters above sea level)is located on the Nepali - Tibet border to the southeast of Mt. Everest. It's the sixth highest peak on earth.
-
Can we customize the Makalu Base Camp Trek itinerary?
Yes, we can customize the trek itinerary to your preference in terms of duration, cost and party size.
Services Includes
-
All arrival and departure at Kathmandu airport as mentioned.
-
Private transfer or flight (Kathmandu/Tumlingtar/Kathmandu) as mentioned in the itinerary.
-
A 3-Star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per the trek itinerary.
-
Daily breakfast throughout the trip.
-
Lunch and Dinner from trek start day to trek end day.
-
All necessary paperwork. (National Park Entry Permits and TIMS Card)
-
English speaking licensed trek guide.
-
Porter during the trek. (Can carry 20KG Baggage of 2 people)
-
Lodge or Tea house accommodation during the trek.
-
One local SIM card (returnable) during your stay.
-
All government and local taxes.
-
Guide and Porter’s salary, food and accommodation during the trek.
-
Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your traveller’s insurance company.
-
Sleeping bag, duffle bags and trekking route maps – if necessary.
-
Farewell Nepali dinner on your last night.
Services Excludes
-
Personal expenses.
-
Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee.
-
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
-
Nepal visa cost. (You will require 2 passport size photos and 30 USD)
-
International flight ticket.
-
Travel health insurance. (Recommended)
-
Tips for the guide, porter and driver.
-
Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
-
All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
-
Hot shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.
-
Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the including section.
Fixed Departure Dates
Reviews
Why Travel With Altitude Himalaya?
We believe in the quality services to accommodate our guests 360 degrees need with tour personalization and customization. Our dedicated and experienced team believes not only in arranging trips, but making creating life long memories. Our travel experience within the region of Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet could make a memorable trip of yours.
Confirm Your reservation Now


TALK TO AN EXPERT
we can help you find your perfect holiday
Mr. Kiran has experience of 10+ years in tourism across Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet holiday arrangements to thousands of travellers from around the world. He will help you to figure out the best possible vacation plan according to your choice and preference.