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Makalu Base Camp lies in the eastern part of Nepal, and it is a perfect place to visit in different seasons. This trek gives you an experience out of the world. This trek will allow you to view many mountains, natural settings, and several plant and animal species. The Makalu base camp altitude is at 4838 m. Makalu Mountain is the fifth-highest peak. While getting to the base camp, trekkers move through the Arun Valley; mountains, birds, butterflies, and rhododendron flowers bloom here. This trek also provides the visitor an opportunity to see some of the villages and how these people live.
Each of the days that one takes on the Makalu Base Camp trail holds a surprise. When you begin the journey from Tumlingtar, you will walk through beautiful villages that seem untouched by the modern world and move through the terrain of rice fields, crossing fast-moving rivers on bouncy suspension bridges. The terrain and climate of this area are very different, and as one ascends higher, the land gets greener. However, one soon crosses a glacier route, which makes it seem as though you are at the end of the world.
The Makalu base camp trek is for 19 days, and it starts from the capital of Nepal. From Kathmandu, you will fly to Tumlingtar, one of the places in the Sankwasubha district. After that, you will travel in a Jeep to Num, and from Num, your trek will start for 16 days. On the route of Makalu base camp, you can meet different people and learn about their culture, rituals, and customs. To give you a better understanding of the travel, the Wandering Trails crew has presented you with the Makalu base camp itinerary. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us if you want to go on any kind of trek or the Makalu base camp trek.
Destination: Makalu Base Camp
Maximum Altitude: 4,838 m
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
Duration: 19 days
Best Season: March to May, and September to November
Accommodation: Included
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Makalu Base Camp trek is not simply a trek through the mountains; it is an exploration of unexplored territory in its beauty and humanity. Each day on this 19-day journey will give you a new exploration, through rhododendron forests blooming, the rivers flowing, or the breathtaking Himalayas.
This trekking is not only a physical activity; it is an opportunity to understand nature and the people who live there and how they survive. Whether it’s the coziness of tea houses, the silence of ancient forests, or the adrenaline rush of crossing a high pass, every moment is a story you would like to recall and recount.
It is time to pack your bags Pull the laces of your boots and embark on a journey through a reality that is either a dream come true. Welcome to Wandering Trails, where we are dedicated to making this great experience affordable, convenient, and memorable. Contact us today and let one of our adventure experts make your Makalu Base Camp adventure come true.
This tour starts immediately after you leave the airport. As you come outside of the airport, a representative of the Wandering Trails will greet you. Then, a representative will help you get your luggage, and they will take you to a good hotel in the middle of the valley. After that, you register in a hotel, and then you can stay comfortably in your hotel room. If you are free, then visit the Wandering Trails office in the afternoon. In this place, the team will give you descriptions of the route, and if there is a question that you would wish to ask, the team will give you an answer. Then you are free to go back to the hotel, have your dinner and have a sound sleep.
The second day of the trip is easy, as you wish, but your Makalu Base Camp Trek Guide will come and pick you up from your hotel after breakfast. The guide will provide you with information about what to carry and other important information that you should know before the trek. Then, the guide will help you obtain a permit. You must have a passport, photos, and travel insurance to apply for the permit. If you have all these, your guide will fill out the permit form and apply to the appropriate office. After finishing the paperwork, you will have enough time to prepare for the trek. Now, you can go shopping. If you want to visit the cultural heritage of Kathmandu, an optional guide will take you. Lastly, check your gear and equipment twice and prepare all your bags to be used on a trek in the coming days. Sleep tight tonight, for tomorrow you are setting off into the beautiful Himalayan habitat.
After having breakfast, your trip will begin. A representative of Wandering Trail will collect you from the hotel and drop you off at the airport. Now, you will fly to Tumlingtar on a domestic flight. The flight will be approximately 35 minutes. When flying, you can see several mountain ranges and green hills. In Tumlingtar, your guide will welcome you. Tumlingtar is the place from where your Makalu Base Camp Trek starts. From Tumlingtar, the journey proceeds by road. Most of the time, you will be following a hilly and curvy road, and after some time you will reach Khandbari. After having a short break in Khandbari. Your drive begins on a dirt road, and you will reach Chilchila. The police at Chilchila will examine your permit to trek to Makalu Base Camp. Again, the drive will start, and then you will reach Num. This is where you will have a nighttime and prepare for the trekking tomorrow's journey.
In the morning today, you will get up from bed and have your breakfast. Then your trek will start towards the base camp. The trail will start from Num and take you through the cardamom plantations. This trail is made from large stone stairs. Moving through the trail for 2-3 hours, you will reach the Arun River. The suspension bridge must then be crossed. From the bridge, you can have a good view of the fast-flowing current water. When you reach the Arun River, the trail will gradually ascent. After some time, you will arrive, Seduwa. In Seduwa, you have to show your check permit for the Makalu-Barun National Park checkpoint. This day is spent in Seduwa, and you will enjoy your dinner.
The fifth day of the trek will be dedicated to Seduwa to Tashigaon trekking. This day trek will give you a cultural feel and also offer you beautiful natural views. On this day you will walk on a good road through the silent forests, settlements of sherpas, and terraces of agricultural fields. From Seduwa, you have to climb gradually, passing through rhododendrons and bamboo trees and having views of the green-layered landscape. On the way, you will find different religious areas. After walking for 2 hours, you will reach Chyaksa Danda, which is a beautiful small settlement. From Chyaksa Danda, the path goes through a huge forest, rich in rhododendrons and oaks. Sometimes you will pass through cultivated fields and cardamom gardens. Along the way, you will find several small rivers to be crossed by wooden bridges. Before reaching Tashigaon, you will find a rough surface as a track, so you have to walk properly in this part. This part will make you tired, but the beautiful environment will make you happy. Finally, you will be able to have a view of Tashigaon on the slope of the land. But before entering the village, you have to cross a log bridge, and you have to walk through stone stairs to get down into the village. On this day you will be staying in a homestay.
Today you have to move from Tashigaon, the beautiful village with greenery, to Khongma Danda. Today, you need to move for almost 9 kilometers, which will take 7 hours. On this day, you will gain some altitude on the way. The road starts with paved stone steps and rhododendron trees. At the end of a 1.5-hour walk, there will be a simple log bridge across the river. Here, you can stop for some time and take a few photos. After 3 hours of hiking, you will reach Dhara. This place is perfect for a long break and the last stop for food and water before Khongma. In Dhara, we will have the lunch of the day. After leaving Dhara, you will start to gain altitude. After about an hour of hiking, you will reach Unshisa. From Unshisa, the trek continues on a rugged path with more stone staircases. This part requires both physical and mental strength. After some hours of hiking, you will see the prayer flags flying high. Now, you are almost close to Khongma Danda. From this place, hiking for an hour, you will reach Khongma Danda, where you will stay for a night.
In any type of trek, adaptation plays an important role for further trek. So, day 7 is your adaptation day to be prepared for further climbs. This day you can explore the nearby region and get adapted for Makalu Basecamp. In the morning, after your meal at your teahouse, you will be ready for a moderate climb. You will bring a water bottle, snacks, and warm clothes to visit Khongma La. During this trekking, you will be able to view densely grown rhododendron trees. To Khongma La pass at 3,890 meters takes you 1.5 hours. On the way, you can have a short break and take some nice photos of the valley view. Once you get to the Khongma La Pass, the view of the snowy and magnificent mountains of the Makalu region along with a beautiful environment will amaze you. Here, spend some time and stay for some time so that your body slowly gets used to the steep altitude. After enjoying the view of Khongma La Pass, you have to go back to Khongma Danda. In the evening, spend your time in the teahouse, enjoy a warm meal, and discuss the further route with your guide. After visiting the Khongma La Pass, your body will be adaptive, and you can be confident about further day activities.
On this day, the trek will be more interesting because you have to pass through four high passes. Each pass offers its own unique charm and physical effort, and you can see some of the landscapes. Your day will begin with an ascent through the Rhododendron Forest. After having followed this trek for nearly one and a half hours, you will reach the Khongma La Pass. Then, after trekking a little downslope from Khongma La, the trail moves towards Sano Pokhari Danda. After walking for some hours on stone stairs, you will reach Sano Pokhari Danda. At this danda, you can see a small pond. After ups and downs for several kilometers, you find yourself at Shipton La Pass, which is the highest point of the day. From this pass, you can get an impressive view of the Himalayan range. From Shipton La, you will descend gradually, down to the Kalo Pokhari Lake at 4,080 m. This lake is surrounded by prayer flags and Hindu worship in this Pokhari, especially during the Janai Purnima Festival. It is a beautiful and quiet place to take a rest. The last pass you have to cross for the day will be Keke La Pass. This pass also gives a beautiful view of the mountains. From Keke La Pass, you have to move downward for 45 minutes to reach Dobate. Dobate will be your destination for the night. You will be happy after reaching your lodge because you need relief.
Your day will start after having breakfast and hot tea from Dobate. Your trek will start from Dobate; you will move downwards from Dobate. You will walk across a forest of rhododendrons and pine. You will get fresh air while walking through this path. You can find ice in this area, so move slowly. After moving downwards from the Dobate, you will reach the river at the base of the valley. After crossing the river, you will find the landslide area; you have to cross this path carefully. After hiking for nearly four hours, you will reach Themathang Kharka, which is at an altitude of 3500 meters. In Themathang Kharka, you can have a small break and eat some snacks. Before reaching Themathang Kharka on the way, you will find a beautiful waterfall. Following Themathang Kharka, there you will find a path toward the Yangri Kharka route. Now, you will reach Baron Khola; you have to cross the river by a wooden bridge. From here, the trek will be flowing parallel to the river. You have to walk from the left side of the river; the track will be up and down. You will arrive at Yangri Kharka after hiking for one and a half hours from Themathang. Yangri Kharka is a beautiful open meadow with great views of mountains in the background. In Yangri Kharka, you will stay for a night and also enjoy the serene environment of alpine meadows.
You have to wake up early in the morning, eat some breakfast, and be ready for the trek. You will love to walk on this day; you will find a flat trail. You can also listen to the sound of a floating river, which is on the left. You can also have a sweet smell of juniper berries in the air. On the path, you will find a colorful flag giving you spiritual feelings. After walking for some time, you can see the different mountain ranges, such as Peak 4, Peak 6, Peak 7, and Yaupa. You can also have a view of snow-capped mountains, cliffs, unusual waterfalls and caves, religious offerings, etc.; hence, this makes your trek wonderful. After hiking for almost 2–3 hours, you will find a wide field. On the way, you will pass a tiny village like Jhak Kharka, Yak Kharka, and Merek. In Merek, you will get a beautiful tea house to take a break. From Merek, it will take you another two hours of trekking to get to your lodge in Langmale Kharka. The lodge rooms provide breathtaking views because the building frames Peak 7 in the backdrop to make it look like a picture taken from a postcard. You can observe various cultures and customs of individuals in this region of the walk.
Today you will reach the final destination of your journey. You would have excitement on this day trek. You will start your journey and move upward towards the valley. While moving upward, you will have a spectacular view. After a few hours of trekking, you will reach Shershong (4,630 m). In Shershong, you can find flat ground, and you can take some breaks and enjoy the beauty of nature. There is also a small stone house for the shelter. As you continue your hike, after some hours of trekking, you will see the Makalu. Then, walking for a few steps, you have to cross the river and get to the base camp. In base camp, there are different lodges; you will stay in one of them. Now you will be taken to the lodge. Be fresh, wear warm clothes, and celebrate your journey at Makalu base camp. As you are in the base of Makalu, give thanks to God that your determination and hard work took you there. There you can see local birds like Tibetan snow cocks, hill pigeons, the black redstarts, and even mountain finches. Spend your time in breathtaking scenes and enjoy the fresh air of the mountains.
Today will be your exciting day as you can explore the incredible views around Makalu Base Camp. The most memorable part of the day is attaining a hill that stands at about 5,300 meters and has the best view of the Himalayas. Wake up early in the morning to cover almost every part of Makalu. To get to the ridge, you have to cross the river using a log bridge, and one has to climb. The trail is relatively difficult, so do not worry; take time to do it. The whole hike to the ridge takes approximately three hours. When you are on the ridge, you will be at an altitude of 5000 meters, so you should rest in different places, at different parts of the trail. Once you reach the ridge, you can see spectacular majestic peaks: Mount Makalu, Peak seven/7, Mt. Everest, Peak 6 & Peak 4. Spend your time sightseeing, capturing photos, and appreciating the quiet mountain scenery. Follow the same path back to the camp. The descent will be somewhat faster, but one has to be careful on the steep trail. If you find a ridge difficult, there are other areas you are free to visit. When you move a little further from the base camp, there is a trail that leads to one or several gorgeous lakes. There is another smaller ridge that you can climb, just above the base camp, which is quite picturesque. It’s a shorter and less rigorous trail. Please make sure to drink a lot of water, try to adapt to a high altitude, and take the time to look at the beautiful scenery around you. This day is preserved for beautiful panoramas of the Himalayas and a couple of photographs.
Today, you have to say goodbye to the wonderful views of Mount Makalu as you begin your trek back to Yangri Kharka. You will be moving towards the Shershong meadow, and at the base of the trip, you can see the orange tree. You have to walk for approximately 1.5 hours. Another 1-2 hours of steep hiking later, you arrive at Langmale, where you can rest. This is a good area to take tea and maybe take some lunch before proceeding with the hike. From Langmale, you have to trek 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Merek tea house. Here, you can take a tea break for a while and just sit for a while. From Langmale, it will take about 2-3 hours of hiking to reach the Merek. There will be no steep climbs as you hike because the trail will take you through enclosed forests of pine trees. You are going to end up this day at Yangri Kharka, but you will be so mesmerized and enthralled by the journey at Makalu Base Camp.
This day trek is a mix of mild walks and climbs. You can see stunning views on the way. You will start your trek from Yangri Kharka. You can have a peaceful walk following the river downstream. During the trekking, you will cross a nice zone with many rhododendrons. You can see varieties of rhododendrons throughout the year. After almost walking for 1.5 hours, you will arrive at Themathang. Themathang is a beautiful area. Here, you can find a teahouse to take a break. At the entrance of Themathang, you will have to cross a small wooden bridge over the river, which makes the trek more adventurous. Now, the trail will pass through a landslide area, which is comparatively easy before ascending through the dense rhododendrons. This part can be quite tiring, but since the trees provide a lot of shade when it is hot outside, the mountains also provide fresh air. As you get closer to Dobate, the trail becomes easier and more manageable. In the evening, you will arrive in the small town of Dobate and spend the night in a tea house. Have rest for some time, arrange the bag for the next day's journey, and have a deep sleep.
You must get up and drink a cup of tea in the morning. Today you have to leave Dobate and also the beautiful view of the world's second-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga. Today you will trek upward and downward throughout the trail. Your excursion will begin with an ascent to the Keke La Pass. You may take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape while walking the path. It will take you 1.5 hours to hike from Keke La to the Shipton La Pass. During this path, you can have stunning views of the high mountains and rocky terrain. After walking for hours along the mountain slope, you will reach Sano Pokhari Danda. This place is at a total height of 4,105 m, and it is very quiet. From Khongma La, you have to move downward on stone stairs. After moving downward for some time, you will reach Danda Kharka and also enjoy the scene while coming downward. On this trek, you can have a quiet, calm, and pretty view, accompanied by the green vegetation. After reaching Danda Kharka, you will be able to spend your night there.
This day will be your almost last walking day of the trek, so you should be fully prepared for it. When you step out of the high mountains, starting with Danda Kharka, you have to descend to the valley and civilization area. You have to walk for almost 4 hours from Danda Kharka to Tashi Gaun. On the trail, you will find colorful Rhododendron trees, meadows, and steep paths. From Tashi Gaun, trail landscapes will be changed. Since you have to pass through terraced farms here, you can get a glimpse of hills and mountains far away. Following this extended walking forward, you will re-cross the entrance point of Makalu-Barun National Park, which has been accompanying you in this trekking. Now, you travel alongside the Barun River. While on the trail, you will cross bamboo forests together with rhododendron trees. After walking for some time, you will get to Seduwa. Here you will always be accommodated in a local lodge; take a rest and recall the trip you did. Seduwa will make you feel warm once you get there.
Today will be your last night in the eastern part of Nepal and your last walk of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. But now you have to descend from Seduwa. Sometimes you go through the stone stairs. Be very cautious when descending from the stone stairs. As you walk deeper into the forest, the temperature gets warmer. After some time, you will reach the Arun River. You must use a suspension bridge to cross a river. From the Arun River, you have to climb upward towards the Num. When you walk for some hours, you get to Num. To get to Tumlingtar, you will take a jeep from Num. While traveling in a Jeep, you have to pass through mountain regions, which give you beautiful scenery of snowy mountains, terrace farms, and hilly villages. Your trek will finish in Tumlingtar. After reaching Tumlingtar, you can relax in your cozy room and take a hot shower. Recall all the accomplishments made during the trek and have good meals in the eastern part of Nepal.
On this day, wake up in the morning and be fresh, then have breakfast and get the view of Tumlingtar. To make your day easier, you will have your flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu in the afternoon. When you are in flight, you can look at the Himalayan ranges. Once you land in the city of Kathmandu, our team will be there to assist you in checking in the hotel of your stay for that particular day. There will be a farewell dinner for the day organized by Wandering Trails in the local lounge after the Makalu Base Camp Trek. This shall be time to think about certain stories and tales that marked the entire experience and a time to enjoy traditional Nepali food. Visit the local markets in the well-known city of Kathmandu if you get the chance. You can also buy souvenirs for your family as well as for friends.
It will be your final day in Nepal. Now, you have to pack your luggage properly and check your room if you have left something. A Wandering Trails representative will help you transfer to the airport in a very comfortable way. A private tourist vehicle will be arranged from your hotel to the airport. You will reach the airport about three hours before the time of the flight. If you wish to continue your journey or want to discover more about Nepal, there are several other travel packages available with Wandering Trails. These options can be personalized to your interests, thus giving you the best of what you want out of your time in Nepal. Safe travels and enjoy the wonderful moments you have ahead of you or on your way back home.
All ages are allowed to participate in this trek; there are no age limitations. However, you should take precautions against altitude sickness and be physically ready for this walk.
Yes, it is completely safe. But there is only the risk of acute mountain sickness.
The highest altitude of the Makalu Base Camp trek is 4838 m.
It is completely safe to embark on the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Locals are also helpful; they will help you if you suffer from any type of problem. Throughout the trail, you can find signboards.
You should walk gently and avoid all liquids and alcohol during the hike to avoid altitude sickness. Bring food with you, such as chocolate, grains, and dry fruits, and consume them gradually at each rest break along the way. Keep the altitude sickness medication "Diamox."
The best time to have this trek is the spring season from March to May and the autumn season from September to November. Other seasons are also good, but these are the best seasons.
Yes, once the tour is scheduled, it can be canceled. However, for assurance, please see our cancellation policy or give us a call.
You need a permit for the Makalu Restricted Area Special Permit, Makalu Barun National Park Permit, and Trekkers Information Management System card.
On average, you must journey for six to seven hours every day. How quickly you walk and the state of the trail can affect how long it takes.
Although some lodges use solar panels for electricity, there is very little internet or electricity available in this area. Bring your power bank, if you can.
The weight limit is not applicable. Your ability to walk and carry a big bag depends on you. It is advised that you carry a 15-kilogram backpack so that you can walk comfortably the entire way. The cost of hiring a porter is determined by the weight of the backpack.
Yes, if you are physically fit, this journey is appropriate for beginners. To increase your strength and ensure that you won't have any issues during the walk, spend an hour exercising and running before the two months.
The highest point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is Makalu Base Camp itself, which is 4838 meters above sea level.
Yes, you can see different mountains in the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Some of them are Everest, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, and so on.
It depends on how you want to complete the trek. Normally, it can take 15 days to complete the trek.
Makalu Base Camp is not expensive if you travel with us. It might be expensive if you do anything on the trek. If possible, buy all the items in Kathmandu Valley.
Yes, it is safe to go for the Makalu base camp trek after the earthquake; all the trails are recovered and fine for trekking again.
Makalu is located in Sankhuwasabha District in the Koshi Zone of northeastern Nepal.
The interesting fact about the Makalu is that this mountain is considered one of the hardest to climb.