Makalu Base Camp Trek 17 Days

US$
2490
per person
  • During the Makalu basecamp and sherpinicol pass trek at west col camp before heading down to seto pokhari
  • Bharat kc Ramesh karki , Santosh sunuwar , Dawa sherpa
  • on the way to makalu bc
  • During the Makalu basecamp and sherpinicol pass trek at west col camp before heading down to seto pokhari
  • Bharat kc Ramesh karki , Santosh sunuwar , Dawa sherpa
  • on the way to makalu bc
17
Days
$ 2550
US$ 2490
Per Person (Group Size: 1-10)
  • Best Price Guarantee
  • Secure Online Booking
  • Flexible Booking Dates
  • Decades of experience in Trekking

If you have question about Makalu Base Camp Trek, please fell free to ask

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At a Glance

Duration

17 days

Destination

Nepal

Trip Difficulty

Extreme

Max altitude

5140m/16863 ft

Group Size

1-10 Pax.

Activity

Trekking,hiking & sightseeing

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu, lodge & tea houses during the trek.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the trek

Vehicle

Private car/bus/jeep and flight

Overview of Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu base camp trek is one of the most adventurous and popular trekking in Nepal. Mt. Makalu, the 5th highest mountain in the world, (Alt 8421m.) is situated between the Everest and Kanchenjunga range. it is located in the far east of Nepal and borders the trans-Himalaya range. generally, you will take a flight to Tumlingtar or you can also go by bus drive from Kathmandu. You will start to walk from Tumblingtar. on the way up to Makalu base camp trek you will cross many local villages such as Seduwa, Thasi gaun, and Kauma Dada, and finally, you will cross Keke-la pass over the 4200m high then you will reach another side of the mountain landscape After you will continue up to basecamp another few days more and celebrate to reach basecamp and explore around then you will re- turn back to Tumlingtar from different route, but you will meet same trail at Dobato as you went up.

During the Makalu basecamp trek, you trek through the Hindu & Buddhist cultures. inhabitants by Chettri, Magar, and Rai in the lower part of the trek, and the uphill is surrounded by Sherpa inhabitants. Early in this trek route, there is a temple called Manakamana which thousands of pilgrims come to visit every year.

Cardamom farming is prosperous also in this area. On the way to base camp from Koma-La pass, you will view the whole Everest range and Makalu mountain range including many other beautiful types of scenery. The trek will be adventurous ascending and descending steeply. From Yangri Kharka, we will see a different mountain. Makalu base camp 5,140m alt.

Our journey commences from the low altitude valley, Arun valley (400m) and mounts over to 5000m elevation. In between Makalu base camp, we will encounter through several passes and note their significance. The region is regarded as a remote area and our hike will become tough, challenging and enjoyable as we go through.


Highlights of Makalu Base Camp Trek

  • Encounter diverse flora and fauna in the Makalu Barun National Park,including rare species like red panda,Himalayan Thar and various bird species.
  • Trek takes you to Mt.Makalu which is the fifth highest peak in the world.
  • Enjoy the breathing view of Mt.Makalu,Mt.Everest,Mt.Chamlang ,Mt.Lhotse.
  • Explore Makalu Barun National Park.
  • Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar.
  • Experience the hospitality of Local Sherpa communities along the trekking route,opportunity to interact with locals

Route Map and Altitude Chart

Download Map

Itinerary

01

Day 01 Arrive in Kathmandu

Duration

30 min

Max altitude

1300m/4265 ft

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

02

Day 02 Trip Preparation Day.

Max altitude

1300m/4265 ft

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

03

Day 03 Fly to Tumlingtar from Ktm,50 min(450m),drive to Num (15,60m)4-6 hrs

Duration

50 min flight,4-6 hrs hike

Max altitude

1,560m/5118 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

04

Day 04 Trek to Seduwa,(alt.1650m) 6-7 hrs

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max altitude

1650m/5413 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

05

Day 05 Trek to Tashi Gaun,(alt,2200m),4 hrs

Duration

4 hrs

Max altitude

2,200m/7217 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

06

Day 06 Trek to Kongma Danda,(alt.3500m),5-6 hrs

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max altitude

3,500m/11482 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

07

Day 07 Acclimatization Day

Max altitude

3,500m/11482 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

08

Day 08 Trek over Keke La Pass-ascend to Tutu La pass to Dobato,(alt.3610m),6-7 hrs

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max altitude

3610m/11843 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

09

Day 09 Trek to Yangre Kharka,(alt.3520m)5-6 hrs

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max altitude

3,520m/11548 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

10

Day 10 Trek to Langmale Kharka,(alt.4410m)5-6 hrs

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max altitude

4410m/14468 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

11

Day 11 Acclimatization day

Max altitude

4410m/14468 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

12

Day 12 Trek to Sherson (alt.4500m)6-7 hrs

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max altitude

4500m/14,763 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

13

Day 13 Trek to Makalu Base Camp (alt.4,900m),4-5 hrs

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max altitude

4,900m/16,056 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

14

Day 14 Excursion around Makalu Base Camp,(alt.5000m)

Max altitude

5000m/16404 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

15

Day 15 Trek to Yangre Kharka,(alt.3520m)6-7 hrs

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max altitude

3520m/11548 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

16

Day 16 Trek to Dobato(alt.3,650m)6-7 hrs

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max altitude

3,650m/11,975 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

17

Day 17 Trek to Kongma Danda,(alt.3,500m)5-6 hrs

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max altitude

3,500m/11,483 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

18

Day 18 Trek to Seduwa(alt.1650m)6-7 hrs

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max altitude

1650m/5413ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

19

Day 19 Trek to Num,alt.1560m

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max altitude

1560m/5118 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

20

Day 20 Drive to Tumlingtar,

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max altitude

512m/1679 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

21

Day 21 Drive back to Kathmandu,alt.1300m

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max altitude

1300m/4265 ft

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Is this offered itinerary not suitable for you?

Inclusion/Exclusion

What's Included?

  • Airport pick up and drop
  • Three night hotel in Kathmandu 2 on arrival and one on departure B/B.
  • Three times meals on Trek (breakfast,lunch and dinner).
  • Hot drinks Tea or Coffee.
  • Fresh Fruit after dinner everyday.
  • Accommodation twin sharing room.
  • Experience English speaking guide.
  • Porter(2 person =1 porter)each carrying max 25 kg.
  • Makalu National Park fee.
  • TIMMS card.
  • Rural municipality entrance fee.
  • All ground transportation.
  • First aid kit.
  • NatureExplore Trek down jacket(refundable after the trip).
  • Duffle Bag for the trip(refundable after the trip).
  • Last night dinner at Nepali kitchen with cultural dance show.
  • Nature Explore T-shirt.
  • All the trip necessary documents.
  • Govt.Vat and Tax

What's Excluded?

  • Personal insurance.
  • International airfare
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Trekking equipment.
  • All types of Beverage.
  • Extra expenses like Battery charge,Wifi,Hot shower,Laundary during the trek.
  • Tipping for staff.

Trip Information

Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulty

Makalu Base Camp is considered to be the challenging trek due to its remote location,rugged terrain and high altitude.The trek takes you to the base camp of world’s 5th highest mountain Mt.Makalu.The trek typically takes around 17 to 20 days to complete and involve crossing high passes,going through deep valley ,ascents and descents So,trekkers needs to be physically fit ,mentally prepared for the trek.One of the most challenging parts is the ascent toward the Shipton La Pass,which is situated at an altitude of over 4,200m.This section specially demands more as trekkers needs to navigate steep inclines and rugged terrain.The trek through the Barun Valley,with its remote and isolated trails can be presented as logistical challenging.Trekkers should be prepare for unpredictable weather conditions and also the limitation of the facilities.

Altitude sickness can be concerned on this trek as the trek highest point is Makalu Base Camp which sits at an altitude of approximately 4800m(15,748ft)above sea level.So,its essential to acclimatize properly.Route condition can vary from the rocky paths to slippery slopes,particularly during monsoon season when rain can make the trails muddy and unstable.

Overall ,the Makalu Base Camp Trek offers the unforgettable experience surrounded by the stunning scenery and untouched wilderness,trekkers need to be well prepared physically,mentally to tackle the challenges and enjoy the trek fully.

Accommodation

Accommodation along the Makalu Base Camp Trek are generally basic due to being in the remote area.During the trek trekkers will stay in Teahouses/lodges.These are typically small guesthouses/teahouse which are run by the family offering basic accommodation.Rooms may vary from simple dormitories to private rooms with the basic bedding.Shared bathroom with squat toilets and common areas for dining where you can socialize with fellow trekkers who share the same dreams as yours.As per meals they provide local dishes and simple western .The taste is enhanced by the freshness of the vegetales,as they are picked from garden to serve,ensuring a delicious and satisfying dining experiences.As you ascend into higher regions,the availability of facilities are limited as the trek is in remote areas.Therefore ,it’s important to be mentally prepare yourself for the challenges ahead.

Things to considered before going for Makalu Base Camp Trek

Before embarking on the Makalu Base Camp Trek it’s essential to considered various factors and here’s the list of things to consider:

Physical Fitness:

For Makalu Base Camp Trek ensure you are physically fit to meet the demand which this trek require while trekking in rugged and high altitude.It’s essential to prepare your body for the uphills climbs,rocky path and unpredictable weather conditions.Prior to the one month of the trek engage on some cardiovascular exercise so that it will enhance your trekking experience.

Packing essential:

Make sure you have pack the essential for the trek considering the remote nature of the area.It’s crucial to pack smartly,prioritizing lightweight and versatile items.Pack appropriate clothing layers for varying temperature ,including thermal base layers,fleece jackets,waterproofs outer layers,gloves,hats and sturdy hiking boots.Carry essential trekking gear such as backpack,trekking poles,headlamp with extra batteries,sleeping bag .Bring toiletries,sunscreen,lip balm,sunglasses,insect repellent and first aid kit.Make sure you have carry the necessary documents such as passport,permits travel insurance etc.Bypacking smartly and thoughtfully you can ensure your preparedness for the challenges of the Makalu Base Camp Trek and maximize your comfort and safety throughout the journey.

Altitude acclimatization:

Plan your itinerary including rest days so that your body can adapt the increase in altitude and oxygen level.These rest days are important for acclimatization,helping to minimize the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring the safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.You can use these rest days to explore nearby surrounding relax and allow your body to recover from the physical demands of the trekking.Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine ,which can contribute to dehydration.

If you experience the symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache,nausea and fatigue while trekking then communicate with your guide and descend to the lower elevation immediately before the symptoms gets worse.Ignoring these symptoms or attempting to push through can lead to more severe altitude sickness.

Trekking permits:

While trekking for Makalu Base camp trek trekkers are required to obtain at least two permits which are Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit and TIMS card .Additionally ,depending on the specific route and the entry point chosen ,trekkers may need to acquire a local area permit.However trekkers don’t need to worry as we will provide you the necessary permits for the Trek.

Travel insurance:

Purchase the comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergency,evacuation,trip cancellation and loss of belongings before embarking on the trek.This insurance provides essential protection and offers peace of mind knowing that your belongings are covered ensuring that you are financially covered for any medical expenses,emergency evacuation or trip cancellation

Hiring a guide and porter:

Makalu Base Camp trek route goes through the remote area of Nepal so,navigation the remote and rugged terrain can be challenging ,especially for those who are unfamiliar with the area.Guides being familiar with the area,its flora and fauna ,so they offer a valuable insights of the local culture history which will enriching your journey.

Additionally Guides also handles the tasks like handling the permits,accommodation booking and meal arrangements. Porter,on the other hand, carries your heavy gear,relieving you of the physical burden allowing you to have the more comfortable trekking experience.Therefore,hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended for a trek like Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Transportation facilities:

We will pick you up from the airport in a private car,jeep or bus depending upon the group size and escort you to your hotel.During the trek,we will take a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and the following day,we will drive to Num.Once we are in Num we will commence our trekking journey.Similarly,while returning back we will follow the same route,driving from Num to Tumlingtar, and then flying back to kathmandu.

Landscapes of the Makalu region:

The landscapes of the Makalu region in Nepal is breathtaking blend of rugged mountain and pristine wilderness,creating an enchanting natural beauty.As trekkers commenced into this remote area of the Himalayas,they are greeted by the lush forests blanketing the lower slopes,where rhododendron trees,oak and pine comes alive with the sounds of the birds chirping and rustling leaves sounds.Terraced fields that looks like a giants steps on the mountain which framers have carefully cut them out of the slopes to grow crops like rice,millet and buckwheat.These crops makes the land green and golden.

As you ascends higher ,the scenery transforms to the alpine meadows which are adorned with the wildflowers during the spring and summer seasons.Trekking more higher you will see the glacial moraines and during this trek it involves crossing several high passes offering the panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and the valley.High passes like Shipton La Pass and KeKe La Pass,rewarding the trekkers with the stunning views of jagged peaks and deep valleys.

One of the highlights of the region is the Barun Valley,which is characterized by the dramatic landscapes.Glaciers,moraines,turquoise lakes and cascading waterfall adorned this valley creating a paradise for the nature lover.

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Customer Reviews

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132 Excellence Reviews
Moira L
Moira L
7 April 2024
Verified
A special experience I never dreamt I would achieve… on crutches! On our visit to Pokhara my friend arranged a trip by jeep via the Tatopani hot springs, The World Heritage Town of Marpha, Jomsom 2700 meters to Mukinath Temple 3500 meters. This was all arranged with advice from Dinersh. Dinersh has looked after three of my dear friend’s four children. All who have been with him to Everest Base camp & various treks. These were all hugely successful & lead by Dinersh himself. We were not on a trek but his input & advice was invaluable. He found us an experienced driver, Kumar to take us on our mountain adventure. He was wonderful so kind & caring. Slightly unusual circumstances to consider was my injury. I was recovering from a complex fracture of the lower leg & ankle & on crutches! However, it was an amazing experience for me. I achieved far more than I ever expected & now have such precious memories. Through the advice from Dinersh & the careful consideration of our driver I cannot rate this company & all their contacts more highly. Throughout our travels in Nepal I have met such very special people. Dinersh & his team are very much a part of this special band. They were just “1st class”
Alison D
Alison D
5 April 2024
Verified
Absolutely incredible experience! Highly recommend! I met Dinesh 13 years ago, when he was working as a Guide. I am so proud of him for setting up such an amazing company. During the booking phase of my Nepal trip Dinesh was always available to answer all my questions. He was so helpful. In March 2024 I headed to Nepal to complete the Mardi Himal trek. My Guide Chhabin and Porter Santosh from Nature Explore Trek made this such a wonderful experience for me. I always felt happy, safe and confident trekking with them. They were both so helpful and so kind. Dinesh personally met me at the airport to welcome me back to Nepal and was in contact with me throughout my stay. I would 100% recommend trekking with Nature Explore Trek. I am already very excited to return to Nepal and trek with them again, thank you so much for building amazing memories with me!
Luis M
Luis M
3 April 2024
Verified
Excellent Langtang Trek My trek with Nature Explore in Langtang Valley was an unforgettable experience. Deepak, our guide, was knowledgeable, friendly, and ensured our safety throughout the journey. He responded well to our requests and was very proactive in meeting our needs. The scenic beauty of Langtang Valley is breathtaking, and the trek was well-organized. I highly recommend Nature Explore for anyone looking for an adventure in the Himalayas.
Geoff F
Geoff F
24 March 2024
Verified
Trip to Muktinath and earlier Family Treks Dinesh has been a guide to my family over many years. Two daughters trekked to Everest Base camp. One returned for second trek. Son has done three separate treks, including the Annapurna Trail. He then took on ‘Dad’ and arranged a 4 day trip to Muktinath, with an excellent driver, Kumar. Everything thought through, including extra care re altitude sickness What an amazing Quality of Service my family and I have received from Dinesh and his company, Nature Explore over these many years, Inc. March 2024. I cannot recommend Dinesh more highly. Definitely 5Stars.
dswwilson
dswwilson
8 February 2024
Verified
Great beginner trek in Nepal We did the Pikey Peak trek in January. This is an excellent walk with some of the best views I’ve had in Nepal. Dinesh and his team at Nature Explore organized the trip
Matt M
Matt M
5 February 2024
Verified
Once in a lifetime trip with a stellar crew This trip was hands-down one of the best trips I've ever been on. It was definitely challenging (~13,000 ft is no joke) but the food, the views, the hikes, the views, the company, did I mention the views, all of it was fantastic. Dinesh and his crew were amazing: they clearly have deep experience and training to be as safe and competent as they are, but they go the extra mile to make sure people are getting what they need, when they need it. If we go back to Nepal, you can be sure we'll be calling Dinesh.
Tammykatz
Tammykatz
28 January 2024
Verified
Incredible experience in Nepal We had a incredible experience with Dinesh , from the first time we contact him he answer us very quickly and gave us all the information we wanted he organize us our trip to Nepal (Katmandu, Pokhara and also a safari in chitwan ) not only the nice trek he recommend us because we are beginners (poonhill) Poonhill was amazing to see the sunrise speechless They made sure that all the time everything was ok with us He has an exelent service and all what he recommend us was very worthy He couldn’t go with us to the trek so he send Deepak who was also very nice and always taking care of us we had a great time with him We really recommend nature explore and his team Next time we come to Nepal no doubt about it we’ll again organize everything wit dinesh
andyoyellow
andyoyellow
27 December 2023
Verified
Amazing trip to ABC I joined the trip solo, but made a bunch of amazing friends on this trip, and a lot of that is owed to Dinesh and his team of guides and porters helping us all along the way. They were warm and generous with every part of the trip. Dinesh was super thoughtful as he captured moments to be remembered, such as sunrise at Poonhill and ABC, and even our group yoga classes. I would love to go on another trek with the guides of Nature Explore
DayTrip40868
DayTrip40868
25 December 2023
Verified
Wonderful and Trustworthy Guide Company Dinesh and his team were just wonderful! They were well organized throughout our trekking and were always nice and friendly. The hike was out of this world. The combination of amazing scenery, high elevation, physical and mental obstacles, beautiful souls in our group, delicious food, and expert guides created a special experience that will stay with us forever. We'll go back to Nepal for sure, and this time will be Everest base camp with Dinesh. 🤞
phinkley7
phinkley7
18 December 2023
Verified
Best trek experience, best guides Thanks so much to Dinesh and his team for their warm, engaged, thoughtful and consistent assistance on our ABC trek this past October. There are a couple other reviews here of that trip and their wonderful support. I’ll add that Dinesh was available as well in addressing questions I had prior to the start of the trip to help put my mind at ease. From those moments going forward and through the entirety of the trip, I felt I was in good hands. Everything was well planned and communicated. Where there were surprises, they easily and calmly helped with a solution, such as when I’d somehow lost my rain layer mid-trip and they helped me set up a DIY trash bag rain layer which worked fantastic. Since many or most of us (~20 total) were new to high altitude hut-to-hut trekking there were of course a lot of expressed nerves about how things would go. The team’s support kept us at ease. Plus these guys were kind and funny. A pleasure to be around. A big thank you to them!
17
Days
US$ 2550 US$ 2490 Per Person (Group Size: 1-10)
  • Best price guaranteed
  • Secure & easy online booking
  • Flexible booking dates
  • Decades of experience

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