Max. Altitude
4950m
Best Season
Oct-Dec & Mar-May
Activity
Trekking & Hiking
Start / End Point
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Overview of Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek is an overwhelming adventure trek in Nepal for national and international trekkers. This trek is the popular Base Camp Trek located southeast of Mt Everest and the Khumbu region. Makalu Trek also falls inside Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area at an altitude above 8,000 m on the lap of the world's Highest Mountain, Mt. Makalu (8,463m).
The Makalu base camp trek route is one of the most beautiful and fascinating trips, which offers a chance to get closer to the world’s highest mountains, including Mt. Makalu, Everest, Baruntse, Chamalang, Lhotse and Nuptse, and other mighty peaks.
Trek to Makalu base camp is regarded as one of the most remote treks as well as restricted area trek in all of Nepal. It is an exceptionally alluring trek to the eastern region of Nepal- a remote area practically untouched by civilization. The Makalu Base Camo trek is often regarded as an outstanding trek consisting of pristine trails recommended for experienced hikers.
Mount Makalu stands tall at an altitude of 8463 m which makes it the fifth highest Himalaya of the world. It lies in the Makalu Barun Conservation area between Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. Life of inhabitants has not changed much here. Based on legends, it is also the home of Bigfoot Yeti.
The Makalu Base Camp trek provides a unique chance to visit different types of landscapes and observe the Himalayan lifestyle. Your Makalu Base Camp trek starts when you fly to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu. You will then drive by jeep or bus to Num village.
From here begins the approach to the Makalu base camp, located at an altitude of 4870 m. From the Makalu base camp, you can have magnificent views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Chamlang, Mount Baruntse, and Mount Makalu.
The first days of the journey pass in the Arun River valley in the tropical jungle, which is famous for its richness of green rhododendron forests. After several passes over 4000 m, you finally reach alpine meadows.
In the upper reaches, the trails are made of polished granite, and the cliffs are topped with hanging glaciers and waterfalls. The trek is an ideal choice for avid hikers and nature lovers who seek solace and tranquility in an unspoiled natural habitat and those who want to escape the crowds.
The transparent surface of high-mountain lakes reflects prayer flags mounted on stone tours. A day later, you are at base camp in a vast rocky valley just off the southern slope of Makalu. After spending some time in this attractive place, you will go down the same road to the small airport at Tumlingtar and return to Kathmandu.
Highlights of Makalu Base Camp Trek
- Adventure around world 5th highest Mt. Makalu with scenic and hidden Barun valley
- Amazing landscapes from warm semi-tropic to alpine cold towards arctic zone of ice and snow
- Exploring cultures around hidden villages on the least trekked areas of Eastern Himalaya.
- Walking into mystical and scenic Barun valley within pristine environment
- Lovely forest of tall pines-firs-oaks-magnolia and rhododendron trees to alpine bush.
- Breath-taking views of world highest peaks including Mt. Everest rare East Face.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Itinerary
01
Arrive in Kathmandu
After landing at Tribhuwan International Airport, you will have to take care of customs and visas. As you exit the gate, our representative will be waiting there to take you to the hotel. The rest of the day, you can relax or take a little stroll through the city. You can also withdraw cash from the ATMs available in the city. With NPR 30,000, you would already have good pocket money for the trekking in Kathmandu.
Maximum Altitude
1400 m
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
3 Star Hotel
Transportation
Airport to Hotel Transport
02
Kathmandu Tour and Trek Preparation
To uplift your mood for the upcoming Makalu BaseCamp Trek, today we will take the city tour of Katmandu. We will visit the Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Bauddhanath Stupa.
In the evening, our trekking team and guide will meet us at the hotel who will tell us details about the tour and also give us some useful tips. We recommend you retire early at night for the early morning flight the next day.
Maximum Altitude
1400 m
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodations
3 Star Hotel
Transportation
2-4 hrs drive
03
Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to reach Num
We will head to the airport early in the morning to take an internal flight to Tumlingtar. From the plane, you can have a panorama of the Himalayas. The fight will take about 35 to 40 minutes. We will now cover the next part of our trek. We will drive to the village of Num by jeep. The route will take you via picturesque villages and impressive mountain forests that are characteristic of this region. The journey will take about 4 hours, on the way we will stop for lunch at one of the local cafes. We will stay at Num’s local lodge and rejuvenate for the next day’s trek.
Altitude: 1519 m
Flight Duration: 35 to 40 minutes
Drive duration: 4 hours
Accommodation: local lodge
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Maximum Altitude
1519 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodations
Local Lodge
Transportation
35m flight, 4 hours drive
04
Trek to Seduwa
From Num, today’s route continues along the mountain ridge to Lumbang, passing through countless fields mainly rice and millet. From Lumbang you descend (approx. 720 m) down to the wild and bubbling Arun River, which you cross via a suspension bridge. On the opposite side, you get back up into the Makalu National Park. This area is usually very hot, but the forests offer enough shade. When you arrive in Makalu National Park, your permit will first be checked. Now the path leads just as steeply up again in serpentines to today’s destination Seduwa where you will stay at the lodge for the night.
Maximum Altitude
1560 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
5-6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Local Lodge
05
Trek towards Tashiga
Today, we will continue climbing over the ridge bounded by the Isuwa Khola to the west and the Kasuwa Khola to the east. You cross the mountain region and will again be able to collect a variety of impressions in the villages. The route will take you along traditionally cultivated rice fields with wooden plows. After about 4 hours, we will reach Tashiga located at 2135 m where we will lodge for the night. The afternoon is free and you can take a short walk in the area or stroll through the small settlement with its shop.
Maximum Altitude
2135 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
4-5 hours
Accomodations
Local Lodge
06
Trek to Kungma
Today is going to be a bit challenging day as we will gain 1400 m altitude. We will follow the mountain ridge towards the north and it goes steeply uphill through a dense mountain forest. After hiking for about 3 hours, you will reach the village of Dhara standing tall at 2,867m. it has a tea shop where we will rest for lunch.
From now on we have to walk slowly and steadily in order to achieve optimal altitude adjustment. The landscape becomes more and more impressive, the mountains are slowly getting closer. After a stiff climb, we will arrive at Unshisa at 3,200m. Further steep climbing will finally take us to Kungma standing at 3556 m. there are lodges here where we will stay for the night.
Maximum Altitude
3556 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6-7 hrs walk
Accomodations
Local Lodge
07
Rest Day
You should approach the day calmly so that your body gets used to the change in altitude and you can gain strength for the coming days. Tomorrow will be a busy day crossing Shipton La so adapt your body to the high altitude by hiking to KUngma La pass with an hour hike.
Maximum Altitude
3556 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodations
Local Lodge
08
Trek via Shipton La high pass to reach Mumbuk
Well rested, today we’re constantly going up and down towards the Himalayan ice giants. First, the trail goes quite steeply over the Kongma-La Pass and further up to the Shipton-La Pass at 4,217 m altitude. You will have a dream view of the Makalu rock pyramid, the Chamlang, and Baruntse, mountains in Tibet, and, in the far east, the Kanchenjunga. After the summit view, we go down to Lake Kalo Pokhari and then we go back up to the Keke La Pass at 4,152 m. We follow and then descend into the Barun Valley. We will reach our destination today, Mumbuk (3,553 m) in the middle of a rhododendron bush. Today we will make our night stay at one of the tea houses.
Maximum Altitude
3553 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6-7 hrs walk
Accomodations
Tea House
09
Trek to Nghe Kharka
Our destination today is Nghe Kharka at 3760 m for which we will first descend through a mountain forest to the deep bank of the Barun River. We then follow the rushing Barun upstream in a constant up and down, and after about 5 hours, we reach the small settlement of Yangle Kharka.
Here we will rest for a while for lunch then we will ascend the Yangle Kharka. We will then cross to the north side of Barun Khola. Finally, we will reach Nghe Kharka, known for its small monastery on its south side. The monastery offers remarkable views of the great Himalayas from all sides.
We will make for the night at one of the lodges in the area.
Maximum Altitude
3760 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6-7 hrs walk
Accomodations
Tea House
10
Trek to Langmale
Today we will reach a height exceeding 4000 m, so we need to take it slow, adapting our body to the high elevation. After breakfast, we will follow the wide mountain valley uphill. If the weather is clear, we will have a spotless view of Peak 6, Peak 7, Chamlang, Yaupa, and Honku Chuli. With every step higher, the mountain peaks get closer and closer and you slowly feel the breath of Makalu.
The route will further take us through Yak Kharka and Merek where we will have lunch in one of the tea houses. After 2 hours of hike, we will arrive at Langmale our destination for today.
Maximum Altitude
4407 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6-7 hrs walk
Accomodations
Tea House
11
Trek to Shershong
With a constant view of Chamlang and Honku Chuli, today we will hike along an alluvial plain and a grassy moraine to the Shersong high alpine pasture. First, the trail goes past Peak 7 and Peak 6, which stand in one powerful massif. Then the trail comes out to a plateau, beyond which there is a turn to the north – towards the Makalu base camp. From here, you can clearly see peaks 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 on the left and right of the icefall that flows down the Lower Barun Glacier into this valley. The peak of Honku Chuli is visible above the icefall. On the plateau, the trail turns north and begins to climb moraines towards the Shershong. It is an excellent place to set up our camps and rest for the next day.
Maximum Altitude
4574 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
5 hours walk
Accomodations
Camp
12
Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Today is the high point of our trek as we will reach Makalu Base Camp. We climb the valley and reach further into the southeast of Shersang via yak pastures and scree fields. Then, gradually, we turn right until the gigantic rock pyramid of the high Makalu comes into view. With every step, the mountain grows higher and higher until we finally reach the 4,812 m high Makalu Base Camp after about 4 hours. It’s simply amazing to stand here at the foot of the giant – how small the human being is in contrast to this pyramid made of rock and ice!
From the camp, the mountain rises almost 3,600 meters into the sky. Enjoy the unique fluidity of Makalu, the fifth-highest eight-thousander on our planet. This mountain is associated with a protective goddess in Nepalese mythology. Enjoy the overall scenery of this great campsite. We will set up the camp and stay for the night.
Maximum Altitude
4812 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
4 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camp
13
Trek to Hilary Base Camp
From Makalu Base Camp, we will hike to Hilary Base Camp, elevated at 4950 m above sea level. The trail to the camp is well-defined, and we will pass through a stunning glacial lake before ascending to Hilary Base Camp. The camp lies in a flat area and offers a stunning view of the south face of Mont Makalu. We will rest for the night at a tented camp in the warmth of the fire and have a delicious, warm dinner.
Maximum Altitude
4950 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
4 hrs walk
Accomodations
Camp
14
Trek to Yangle Kharka
Today, we will bid farewell to Mount Makalu and will descend back onto the valley. We will return via the same path that will take us to Shershong and Langmale. After about one and a half hours, we will arrive at Shershong, and once again we will be able to enjoy the astounding landscape of the region. We will continue descending the trail, and after about an hour, we will reach Langmale, where we will stop for lunch. Further, the route will take us to Merek and finally to Yangle Kharka.
Maximum Altitude
3598 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Lodge
15
Trek to Mambuk
We will again retrace our steps towards Mambuk. Don’t worry that the route is repeated it is not. We will walk this path at different times of day and in different directions, which significantly affects the perception of the surrounding landscapes; in addition, the road is worthy of a second visit!!
In the afternoon, we will have a difficult climb through a beautiful forest of 600 meters to a Mambuk, where we will stay for the night.
Maximum Altitude
3553 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Lodge
16
Trek via Shipton La Pass towards Kungma
From Mambuk, we will have a steep climb and reach Shipton La Pass. From the Pass, we will again have the extraordinary views of Kanchenjunga massif. We will then pass through deep fir forests and cross Keke La Pass. We will now descend to Kungma, where we will spend the night.
Maximum Altitude
3443 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
8 hrs walk
Accomodations
Lodge
17
Trek to Seduwa
Another day of descending on our journey, which will make our hike and breathe easy. We will walk along the path that we used at the beginning of this Makalu Base Cmo trek. However, be careful as it will be a long descent. We will go through a variety of slopes and eventually arrive at Tashigaon, a Sherpa village, where we will have our lunch. Then, we will walk along and leave Makalu Barun region and return to Arun Khola to reach Seduwa, where we will rest for the night.
Maximum Altitude
1540 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
7-8 hrs walk
Accomodations
Lodge
18
Trek to Num
Today, we go back to the beginning of this breathtaking route. We will drive by jeep to Tumlingtar, where we will spend one last night. We can leave for Kathmandu very early the following day.
Maximum Altitude
1490 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Lodge
19
Drive to Tumlingtar
Today, we go back to the beginning of this breathtaking route. We will drive by jeep to Tumlingtar, where we will spend one last night. We can leave for Kathmandu very early the following day.
Maximum Altitude
518 m
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration
4-6 hrs walk
Accomodations
Lodge
20
Fly to Kathmandu
Early morning, we will take a flight to Kathmandu and after about 40 minutes we will reach Kathmandu. Our team will transfer you to your hotel and the rest of the day is at your leisure. You can take a small tour of the city once again, buy some handicrafts, arts, pashminas and so on. In the evening, to show our gratitude, we will greet you with a warm farewell dinner at a reputed restaurant.
Maximum Altitude
1400 m
Meals
Farewell Dinner
Accomodations
3 Star Hotel
Transportation
40 min flight
21
Departure
Today, you fly home from Nepal. Pack your bags, have breakfast, and our team will transport you to the airport 3 hours before your departure.
Meals
Breakfast
Transportation
Hotel to Airport Transport






Required Equipments for Trekking in Nepal
- Breathable Underwear
- Sports Bra
- Base Layers
- Trekking Shirts
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Fleece Jacket
- Down jacket (insulated jacket)
- Windcheater (water proof)
- Sun protection Hat
- Headband or Beanie
- Scarf or neckband
- Gloves (inner and outer )
- Hiking Boots
- Trekking Shoes
- Hiking Socks
- Thermal Socks
- Gaiters
- Duffel Bag
- Day pack
- Sleeping Bag
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses
- Hydration bladder or Water bottle
- Head Lamps
- Batteries
- Personal towel
- Swiss army knife
- Sun lotion
- Medical & first-aid kit
- Woolen socks
- Waterproof jacket
- Lip Guard
- Insulated pants
- Baby wipers
Required Equipments for Climbing in Nepal
- Water bottle
- Batteries and bulbs
- Flashlight
- Personal towel
- Swiss army knife
- Rucksack
- Sun lotion
- Medical & first-aid kit
- Sewing kit
- Polypropylene/wool socks
- Other required equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Down Jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking shoes/boots
- Camp shoes
- Jumperorpile jacket
- Hiking pants
- Hiking shirts
- Full–sleeves shirt
- T-shirts
- Sun hat
- Gloves
- Woolen hat
- Long underwear
- Goggles or sun glasses
- Gaiters
- Sun block for lips
- Light cotton socks
- Mountain trekking boots
- Woolen socks to wear with boots
- Nylon wind breaker
- Insulated pants
- Nylon wind pants
- Long sleeved cotton/woolen shirts
- Sun hat
- Long cotton hiking shorts
- Fleece/wool for climbing
- Lightweight fleece
- Sleeping pad (karri mat) or thermarest
- Down high altitude sleeping bag
- Down jacket/trousers/vest
- Light cotton athletic socks and wool socks
- Water proof climbing jacket
- Head torch/batteries/bulbs
- Climbing sunglasses
- Lightweight thermal/insulated ski gloves
- Sun screen
- Warm climbing trousers
- Wool long underwear
- Other required equipment
- Climbing boots
- Gaiters
- Ice axe
- Harness
- Crampons
- Karabiners
- Tapes/slings
- Snow bars
- Ice screws
- Rock pegs
- Deadmen
- Crash hat
- Day bag
- Rucksack
- Lip salve
- T-shirts
- Ascenders
- Ascenders
- Kit bag
Whats Included
- Airport pick up and drops international and domestic .
- Complete departure information, About trek, flight ticket, guide, altitude sickness and reconfirmation and extend visa service(if necessary) and extra tour service before the trek starting.
- 2 nights 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar to Kathmandu only 15 kg luggage aloud. Â (10kg Big bag & 5kg hand bag)
- Trek flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar & Kathmandu for member and involved staff.
- Best Lodge accommodation & full board meals throughout the trek.
- breakfast, lunch and  dinner included chosen from lodge menu.
- twin share accommodation during the trek.
- As per group size experience, government licence holder trek guide, helpful and friendly strong, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff.( 5 trekkers 1 assistant guide )
- Warm Down jacket and four seasonal sleeping bag will be provided during the Makalu base camp trekking ( down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after the trip )
- TIMS Fee- Trekkers’ Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permits)trek permit fee. Makalu base camp trail map.
- First Aid kits for the staffs and the groups.
- Services coordination for emergency and rescue operations
- Government taxes & office service charge
- Farewell dinner at reputed restaurant
Whats Excluded
- Meals not quantified in the ‘Meal Inclusions’ in the itinerary’
- Travel insurance
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa charge.
- All beverage and others personal expenses.
- Snacks and other personal expenses
- Hot shower during the trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek - Essential Information
Makalu Base Camp trek is an ideal trek for nature-loving trekkers who want to experience a lot. The major attract of the trek is the mesmerizing view of Mt. Makalu along with Mt Everest and other mighty peaks of this region.
Makalu base camp trekking trail offers you amazingly beautiful natural surrounding and landscape, diversified flora and fauna, lush green forests, incredible white snow peaks, rhododendron and pristine forest, Barun river valley, granite cliffs, glaciers, spectacular waterfalls, amazing scenery ranging from the sweeping Arun river valley, the Barun La (4200m), old and ancient Buddhist monasteries, traditional lifestyle of Rai, Sherpa and Tibetan people, their religious practices, unique cultural heritage, customs and festivals as well you will also be pleased with the warm hospitality they offer.
September-November and March-June is the best season to trek Makalu base camp. Makalu base camp trekking is a moderate trek as well less frequented route for trekkers due to its relative inaccessibility. However, this trek is not too hard and doesn’t demand advanced physical fitness levels so anyone can enjoy and take pleasure in nature walking during this trek.
Our especial Makalu Base camp trek begins with sweeping scenic short flights to warm areas of Arun River Valley at Tumlingtar town via Kathmandu. Then our adventure begins taking an exciting drive towards Num around high hills, farm houses and village with well tended terraces and ever present views of Mt. Makalu and other adjoining peaks. Starting our fabulous adventurous trek full of delights with exciting walks from low warm semi-tropical temperature of Arun River Valley we trek to Seduwa via Num.
Continuing our trek we climb uphill via rough way towards Tashi-gaon and then into pure wilderness of deep forested hills as the climb leads towards scenic ridges of Kaungma Danda with grand views of Mt. Makalu and Kanchenjunga towards eastern horizon. Adventure continues walking small and big glacial lakes and over extraordinary temperate passes called Keke-La pass (4230m) and Tutu-La pass (4200m). Then many edges ascend up through Mambuk, Nghe Kharka and Langmale we reach hidden and beautiful Barun River valley which is off the beaten mid hill trails. Finally, we trek towards our destination at Shersong and reach Makalu Base Camp (8,412 m).
From Makalu Base Camp there are spectacular views of greatest Mt. Makalu, the rarely seen Kangshung face of Everest as well as Lhotse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga in the far-east. Then we descend towards Hilary Base Camp, Yangle Kharka, and Mambuk. We trek the trail via Shipton-La Pass (4127 m) towards Seduwa via Kumgma Danda. After a wonderful experience heading back to Tumlingtar from Arun River valley we take a short and scenic flight back to Kathmandu to conclude this fabulous Makalu Base Camp trekking.
Throughout the Makalu base camp Trek, you hardly find any modern facilities and amenities but blessed with an incredible diversity of natural beauty and leave a strong impression on many trekkers due to its unforgettable memorizing trip into the Himalayas. Life Himalayas Trekking Pvt. Ltd, can custom design the packages according to your requirements, offering suitable discounts and guaranteed on customer satisfaction. The Makalu base camp trek can be flexible with the itinerary and can adjust many more details according to your demand, availability, and timing.
Regarding flights in the mountain region
Mostly twin otter is the most common means of air transportation in the Nepalese sky and during the flight in the Himalayan region of Nepal the flight schedule is cancelled and change from time to time due to poor visibility, weather condition and many other technical problem. In such case we would charter helicopter for our guest regarding schedule of their international flight and for the different problem arise in the trek. The charter cost should be paid at head office of Tourist link Trek at Thamel and later on you can claim with your travel insurance.
As per Nepal Civil aviation rules the helicopter will fly, if the visibility is up to 1500m and visibility should be 5000m for flying Twin Otter in Nepalese sky.
Volunteering Hand of Life Himalaya Trekking
Ganesh Himal community foundation is a voluntary organization running by Life Himalaya Trekking for the development of people life style, education and villages in the rural village of Dhading district Nepal. An amount of 10% from every trip booking at Life Himalaya will go in the account of Ganesh Himal Community foundation. So this shows that we are liable for the social development of Nepal along with tourism business.
Major community work and partnership
The main job of the Ganesh Himal Community foundation is to construct the school and libraries in the rural areas of Nepal, in the needed place after a proper study. Conduct programme for the skill development, health and sanitation, village development with a joint effort of local people.
Best Season for Makalu Base Camp Trek
The best season for the Makalu Base Camp trek is Spring, from March to May and autumn from September to November the time to avoid is during the rainy season from June to August. During these months the mountains are often free of clouds and the mountain views are almost perfect. The nights are often cool and from 3000m it can sometimes be minus 10 degrees. The sun is very intense during the day, and the temperatures feel very pleasant.
During winter from December to February, this region becomes very cold and there will be snow cover in the higher parts of the trek. Many guesthouses actually close for the winter and reopen in late February to March. However, it is possible to do the Makalu Base Camp hike on the sidelines of the season in late February/early March and it can be quite beautiful with the snow cover.
Our recommendation for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is from the end of September to the end of November and April to early June.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulty
Makalu Base Camp is a moderately difficult and challenging trek in Nepal. In comparison to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek, Makalu Base Camp is slightly difficult due to its remoteness, continuous incline and decline along the trail, and the difficult terrain. The route includes several very difficult days, for example, from Tashigaon to Kungma you need to gain 1400 meters, and from Yangle to Langmale – 900 (this is already at altitudes from 3500 to 4400 meters).
On the way back, you will have to walk from Membuk to Tashigaon, which is 10 hours of travel and 1200 meters of climbing, then 1000 meters of dropping. Please note that between Num and Seduwa, you will have to drop 800 m and then gain it back, and between Kungma and Membuk, there are two passes of 4100 m each.
In addition, this trail is not too familiar among the tourists, and the region is still untouched and undisturbed by modernity. Therefore, although you may find the Makalu Base Camp a little bit demanding, the trek will be worth your time, energy, and money.
Altitude Sickness in Makalu Base Camp Trek
During the Makalu Base Camp Trek, you will be gaining altitude each day till you retrace your steps to return to the capital. The highest elevation you will reach is at Makalu Base Camp and Hilary Base Camp both standing above 4500 m above sea level. So, most probably, you may suffer from altitude sickness. However, it is not compulsory that each one in the tour group will experience the sickness.
If you do everything correctly and as instructed by our guide, you will not suffer any severe symptoms. Ensure you gain the height gradually. After 3000 m you cannot gain more than 500 meters per day. With an overnight stay at a new altitude, your body adapts to new conditions, and you can continue on your way.
If you feel you have a headache, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, and fatigue inform your guide and take Diamox. For minor headaches, you can take a paracetamol tablet. Usually, as you descend, the situation stabilizes. To prevent altitude sickness, you can do the following:
- Do not drink alcohol
- It is also better to avoid smoking and caffeine
- In the remaining time before the trek, improve your physical fitness: by running, cycling, swimming, and yoga. Even a month or two of regular training will significantly improve your physical fitness.
- Drink at least 3 liters of water each day.
- On the track, listen to how you feel. Report any symptoms to your guide immediately.
What to expect in Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Makalu Base Camp Trek takes you to the alluring landscape through the untrodden trails in the eastern region of Nepal. The trek will allow you to discover Makalu Barun National Park, which is a nearly uninhabited area of 1,500 km² in eastern Nepal. The park lies close to untouched wilderness. The Makalu Barun Valley offers breathtaking contrasts, where towering waterfalls cascade into deep gorges, rugged cliffs rise from lush green forests, and colorful flowers bloom beneath white snowy peaks.
You can spot rare species such as red panda, snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan Black Bear at your own pace, wondering in their natural habitat. In addition, you can have spectacular views of the rugged Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Makalu, Mt. Chamlang, and Mt. Baruntse.
You will hike through traditionally cultivated fields, thick rhododendron forests, and stunning villages. As you gain height, you will come across yak pastures and glaciers with raging waters of the Arun and Barun rivers. During the entire trek, you will either rest in local lodges, yea house, or tented camps. You will have ample opportunity to learn about the local culture and the everyday life of residents. In short through this expedition, you will once again reconnect your soul with Mother Nature.
Accommodation, Food, and Transportation
During Makalu Base Camp Trek, we will take care of your entire accommodation, food, and transportation. Our service begins immediately as soon as you land in Tribhuvan International Airport, we will pick you up and drop you at the 3-star hotel. The hotel will serve you a complimentary breakfast during your stay. For lunch and dinner, you can always go to various restaurants located on every corner, from budget-friendly to expensive ones. The following day we have set aside for the city tour with our expert guide. He will give you a tour of Kathmandu in a private car. However, if you wish to do the tour on your own, you can also do so.
As the trip begins, we will fly you to Tumlingtar, and from there, we will drive you by jeep to Num. During the entire trek, we will accommodate you in the best local lodge in the area on twin sharing basis. The lodges provide basic amenities of comfort, and the food options can be limited to Nepali cuisine. But the rooms and food will both be clean, hygienic, and safe.
In the base camp, our team of guides and porters will set up the camp, where they will cook tasty hot meals for you. We will provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a hot cup of tea or coffee with every meal. On our return journey, we will drive via jeep to Tumlingtar, from where we will fly to Kathmandu. We will then drop you to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Notes
Makalu Base Camp Trek - FAQs
Can I customize the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Yes, we can tailor-made your itinerary based on your preference and requirement.
Are there medical facilities during this trek?
There are health posts available till Tashigaon but you can rarely find any modern hospitals or health posts after Tashogaon. But there is no need to worry as our guide is knowledgeable, experienced, and licensed with first aid training. He also carries a first aid kit during the entire trek.
What measures will you take during an emergency in Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Our guides and porters are local inhabitants of the region so they are well equipped with adequate knowledge to deal with any situation or emergencies. Our guide will make the necessary decision and will make arrangements for emergency evacuation in case the condition demands.
Can I use ATMs or Debit cards during this trek?
You can use your ATM or debit Card only till Tumlingtar. We recommend you withdraw cash when you are in Kathmandu.
Do I need to tip the porter and guides?
It is not mandatory to tip your guide or porter but it is expected since they render their services by going to their limits for your comfort and safety. If you are satisfied with their service, you can tip them 10 % to 20 % of your total bill.
Is there an internet facility during Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Yes, there are internet services in the lodges you stay for the night. In lower altitudes, they may not even charge you for the internet. But in higher altitudes, the internet connections can be very slow and the lodges may charge you an extra for the service.
Can I charge my electric devices in the Makalu Base Camp trek?
Yes, you can charge your devices when you are in a lodge or tea house during the trek. But you can have access to two-pin adapters only in some of the tea houses so you should bring a conversion plug or another converter. Carry solar power banks which can be useful during your stay in tented camps.
Altitude Gain During Makalu Base Camp Trek
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