Makalu Base Camp Trekking

Takes you to high-altitude terrains, snow-clad landscapes and ethnic Himalayan lifestyle on a solitary trek to Makalu base camp

Trip Code
AMT - TREK - 504
Best Season

Spring & Fall

Trip Grade

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Max Altitude

West Col (6,190m/20,303ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

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Introduction

Mt. Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world with an altitude of 8,485 meters above from sea level impressively rises on the border between Nepal & China in the world’s highest Mahalangur Himalayan Range of Nepal. Makalu Base Camp Trekking also known as Makalu Circuit Trekking. It is a great opportunity to reach at the base camp of Mt. Makalu at 4,800 meters. The crossing of three major tough and rugged high passes. Sherpani Col at 6,180 at meters, West Col at 6,185 meters and Amphu Lapcha La at 5,845 meters.

 

We can consider the trek as one of the most challenging trekking in Nepal. Highly recommended for those trekkers who have previous trekking experience and knowledge about the usages of peak climbing gears. Makalu Base Camp Trekking starts from Tumlingtar and leads to the Arun river valley to Sedua and Num. Then crossing Shipton La Pass to the upper Barun river valley for a close look at Makalu and Chamlang Himal. This trek visit is one of the most remote and seldomly visited areas of Nepal. The Barun valley is a part of a large international protected area under the agreement between the governments of Nepal and China. It covers 2330 sq. km of National Park and 830 sq. km of the conservation area in Nepal alone.

Furthermore:

The Makalu Base Camp Trekking offers very close views of the world’s popular mountains. Namely Mt. Everest (8,848m), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Mt. Makalu (8,485m), Mt. Baruntse (7,129m), Mt. Amadablam (6,812m) and many other major and minor snow-capped mountains.

Makalu Base Camp Trekking Features:

Circuit of world’s 5th highest Mt. Makalu via crossing of challenging high passes: Sherpani Col (6180m), West Col (6185m) & Amphu Lapcha (5845m)

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) and transfer to hotel.

Breakfast and Welcome Dinner. Hotel or Resort

Land in Kathmandu International Airport and transfer to hotel or resort by our tour representative. Overnight stay in Kathmandu. Relax.
Accommodation: Hotel or Resort as per your preference.
Meal includes: Breakfast and Welcome Dinner.

Day 02: Guided tour to Kathmandu’s World Heritage sites.

Breakfast Hotel/Resort

Early morning breakfast at the hotel. Our guide will pick you up from the hotel for sightseeing of World Heritage Sites. Actually, there are seven World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and we arrange sightseeing spots according to your choice, you have to choose only 3/4 spots for a day since it is not possible to visit all places in a single day–at least 2/3 days requires having sightseeing tour of all heritage sites in Kathmandu. World Heritage Sites of UNESCO in Kathmandu are; Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Swyambhunath Temple, Pashuapatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa and Changu Narayan Temple. In the evening we again can have pre trek discussion.

Day 03: Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Drive to Khadbari (1,030m/3,378ft).

45 min flight & 2-3 Hrs. drive Full Board Tea House

Today we take a 45 minutes flight to Tumlingtar after breakfast. After reaching Tumlingtar, we drive to Khadbari. We will drive through the farmlands, forests, and little villages passing en-route. Land at the large village of Khadbari

Day 04: Trek from Khadbari to Chichila (1,830m/6,002ft).

5-6 Hrs. walk Full Board Tea House

We begin our trek from Khadbari going through attractive villages to reach Mane Bhanjyang. We proceed on our way by ascending a little ridge to a short pass at Bhotebas 1740m. Here you get great panoramas of Makalu. Further, we take the trail that passes by moss-covered woodland beside the ridge heading to Chichira.

Day 05: Trek from Chichila to Num (1,490m/4,878ft).

5-6 Hrs. walk Full Board Tea House

Early morning after breakfast, we head towards Num. A decently paced stroll through the beautiful villages and rich mountain woodlands will lead us to Num. A ridgeline with awesome perspectives on two sides and roosted on the end, we will land at Num.

Day 06: Trek from Num to Seduwa (1,460m/4,788ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House available

Start with a precarious downward trail through terraced ranches and forests that brings us to Barun River. Cross the river and once more take a tough climb on the opposite side. Frequently very hot – the backwoods on the valleys offer a touch of shade during our trek. Makalu Barun National Park starts from this area and there we will get our permit checks. At top of the village of Seduwa, we can do our camping.

Day 07: Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,070m/6,789ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Today we climb the ridge limited by the Kasuwa Khola toward the east and Ipsuwa Khola at the west. Cross the slope through villages and going by little paddy fields. We achieve the fascinating Tashi Gaon village. From here, we can enjoy the stunning Himalayan scenes.

Day 08: Trek from Tashigaon to Kauma Danda (3,470m/11,381ft).

6-7 Hrs. walk Full Board Tented Camps

Start the trail that ascends sharply through the charming cloud forest. We keep on climbing going to Unshisa, here we can stop at a tea shop which is open during the primary trekking season. Then we take the uphill trail to land at Kauma Danda.

Day 09: Trek from Kauma Danda to Mumbuk (3,570m/11,709ft) via crossing of Kauma La Pass (3,603m/11,817ft altitude) Tutu-La(4,125m/13,530ft) & Keke La Pass (4,170m/13,677ft).

7-8 Hrs. trek Full Board Tented Camps

Today while in transit to Mumbuk, we climb on tough switchbacks for some time till reaching the highest point of the ridge, at 3840m. Here you can have the mesmerizing perspective of Chhamlang, Peak 6 and Peak 7. Then the trail goes through rhododendrons forest and reaches to Ghungru La one of the principal passes among the three passes we will cross today while heading to the Barun Khola. From here plunging a little lake we move up to Shipton La later to Keke La (4150m). The path at that point enters to a valley flourishing with rhododendrons. At last, we make a lofty downward trail through backwoods of firs. We land at Mumbuk.

Day 10: Trek from Mumbuk to Nehe Kharka (3,700m/12,136ft).

4-5 Hrs. trek Full Board Tented Camps

The trail ahead from Mumbuk descends to the concealed and enclosed Barun Valley. It is the least discovered area of the eastern Himalayan locale. Enjoy one of a kind scenes at the Makalu-Barun National Park. There are about 3,000 types of flora, 440 birds’ species, and 75 types of mammals like the red panda, endangered clouded panther, and musk deer.
Further, we achieve the lavish snow-capped region of Barun Valley the walk is exceptionally lovely here with continuous tough uphills till reaching Nehe-Kharka. It is the summer pasture for the nearby people of Navagaun and Tashi.

Day 11: Trek from Nehe Kharka to Shersong (4,615m/15,137ft).

6-7 Hrs. walk Full Board Tented Camps

Today the trek starts by crossing the wooden scaffold on the Barun River. The trail goes on the rocks, till a substantial prayer wall at Ramara. Following 2-3 hours of the trail, the vegetation gets scanty. During a wonderful walk, we have a sight of the lower Barun glacier and the transcending glorious Mt. Makalu. Reach Shersong. At its grazing ground, you enjoy the extraordinary panorama of many pinnacles, such as the upper part of Makalu south face, and Mt. Baruntse 7,220m etc.

Day 12: Trek from Shersong to Makalu Base Camp (4,800m/15,744ft).

4-5 Hrs. trek Full Board Tented Camps

After early morning breakfast, we remain on the east side of the valley for the further trek. It’s a progressive trail to a small pass around 100m above Makalu Base Camp. Dropping to a stream and intersection on the rocks to the west bank of the river we reach the Base Camp. Enjoy the fabulous perspectives of the south face of Makalu. There are no vegetation and houses at the Makalu Base Camp.

Day 13: Rest and acclimatization at Makalu Base Camp.

Full Board Tented Camps

Spend the day to rest and get acclimatized for the trek ahead. The Base Camp is a rough barren area with the vast Barun Glacier behind it. From here we can see the wonderful south face of Makalu and the breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. We can also wander around the encompassing lakes, pass, and glacier for a short trek up.

Day 14: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Swiss Base Camp (5,150m/16,892ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tented Camps

From Makalu Base Camp we take the well-maintained route that goes through Hillary Base Camp. We step by step climb towards Swiss Base Camp at 5,150 m. Trek is challenging but with the beautiful magnificence of the environment that will make you feel tireless and fresh. Cross the banks of Barun River to reach the Swiss Base Camp.

Day 15: Trek from Swiss Base Camp to Sherpani Col Base Camp (5,700m/18,696ft).

6-7 Hrs. trek Full Board Tented Camps

The trail from here turns out to be hard as it moves towards a lofty rock filled chasm. Soon climbing the slope becomes fairly easy before touching base to a little flat region. After an hour of the trail, reach the snout of the glacier at Sherpani Col Base Camp.

Day 16: Acclimatization Day at Sherpani Col Base Camp.

Full Board Tented Camps

Today we will spend the day for acclimatization. Since the trek ahead is more challenging at higher elevations for the next few days.

Day 17: Trek to Baruntse Base Camp via crossing of Sherpani Col (6,180m/20,270ft).

8-9 Hrs. trek Full Board Tented Camps

Early morning start with the intersection of the tough pass Sherpani Col. Take the route by the side of the glacier and ascend towards the prayer flags with the help of a fixed rope to achieve the Sherpani Col. top. From that point, we begin to go down to West Barun Glacier. Pass the glacier to reach Baruntse Base Camp.

Day 18: Trek to Amphu Lapcha Base Camp (5,400m/17,712ft) via West Col (6,190m/20,303ft).

7-8 Hrs. trek Full Board Tented Camps

Today, we ascend the rocky trail achieving the southern end near a rock wall that structures the pass. When we are at the highest point of West Col, we go down to Honku Basin. From here we descend vivaciously to achieve Amphu Labsta Base Camp.

Day 19: Trek from Amphu Lapcha Base Camp to Chhukung (4,730m/15,514ft) via Amphu Lapcha Pass (5,845m/19,177ft).

8-9 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

We set out toward the intersection of presumably the riskiest pass of Nepal since the climb consists icy inclines and snow-topped trails. So, we need to climb and descend with care. We ascend with full climbing gear. From the highest point of the pass, we slide downhill after the precarious rough trail going via Amphu Labsta Glacier. Reach Chhukung.

Day 20: Trek from Chhukung to Tyangboche (3,867m/12,684ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

Today we have a simple trail going through a few frozen streams we travel towards Bibre. From there we proceed with our trail through the stone-walled fields and the alpine scene to land at Dingboche. Further, we go down to a genuinely gentle trail to achieve Tyangboche.

Day 21: Trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft).

4-5 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

The trek from Tyangboche is downhill with a couple of rough ascends from the bridge at Phungitenga, close to Shanasha. The superb and lovely trail through Khumjung lands us to the Sherpa Capital- Namche Bazaar.

Day 22: Trek Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,184ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea House

This is the last day of our trek. Start trail from Namche Bazaar towards Lukla. From Namche, we drop through thick woods loaded with oak, rhododendron, and pine trees. With some short uphill ascensions and after that descend to the Bhote Koshi River, we will cross it three times. At last, an uphill trek will take us back to Lukla.

Day 23: Flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla Airport.

Breakfast Hotel/Resort

Early morning, we will board the Lukla Kathmandu flight. Our tour representative will transfer you to a hotel or resort in Kathmandu. Rest day at rest.

Day 24: Free day.

Breakfast & Farewell Dinner Hotel/Resort

Today is free for personal activities. Or our tour representative can help you to customize additional city tour.

Day 25: Final departure. Drop to airport as per flight schedule.

Breakfast

After breakfast transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport. Return to home with the cherishing memories of your adventure.

 

Remember:

Our travel planner can customize the itinerary outline as per your duration of stay, purpose of holiday and your preference. Cost of the package also depends upon level of service (deluxe, standard & budget) and as per the group size. You can easily CONTACT US at any time for any queries.

Cost & Dates

N/A

TOUR MAP

Additional Information

How hard is Makalu Base Camp Trek ?

Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered as one of the challenging trek on remote area of Nepal. There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walk of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said, Makalu Base Camp Trek can be done by travelers who have the right attitude and are physically fit.

Which is the best season for Makalu Base Camp Trek ?

The best season for Trekking Makalu Base Camp is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.

How high will we ascend during Makalu Base Camp Trek ?

The maximum height we will ascend during this trek is up to West Col (6,190m/20,303ft).

Is the Internet accessible during Makalu Base Camp Trek ?

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during Makalu Base Camp Trek. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.

What are the permits required for Makalu Base Camp Trekking ?

The permits required for Makalu Base Camp Trekking are:

  • Makalu Barun National Park Permit
  • Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card

How long will Makalu Base Camp Trek take ?

According to the standard itinerary our Makalu Base Camp Trek is of 25 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager; he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.

Is it possible to trek Makalu Base Camp ?

Yes!! It is possible to trek Makalu Base Camp. Rara Lake trekking requires stamina and good health conditions. If you are planning to trek without any experience then you can contact us prior to 20 days so that we can guide you through some exercises and diets you should consider for preparation.

Do I need to have Travel Insurance during Trek ?

Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.

Should I manage the equipment/accessories for trekking by myself ?

All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.

Who are my Guides ?

Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.

What if I cancel the trip, do I get my refund ?

Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.

Are your staff equipped/trained & insured ?

We hire our staff according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.

What about altitude Sickness ?

Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.

How to select a local agency for trekking?

Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.

What is the Accommodation Like ?

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Makalu Base Camp trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude and remote places the service will be limited.

Can I charge my mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek ?

Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring power bank with you which will be helpful.

Quick Enquiry

    EXCELLENT rating
    Based on 57 reviews
    Great Trip We had a great time in Nepal thanks to Pradip and his team! From landing to take off we were thoroughly looked after. We were greeted at the airport and the same person helped us in Katmandu both sides of the trek, picking us up from our domestic flight and again taking us to the airport at the end. He was always early and received a sweet momento on arrival and departure. Due to weather we unfortunately had to make a last minute decision to change our route; Pradip and the guide See Wa were very accommodating and we easily changed from ACT to Poon Hill and ABC. He quickly sent us a new itinerary and we were picked up the following morning. We were given options as to how we wanted to get to Pokhara and Pradip made this seamless for us. Many trekkers also had to change their route to ABC rather than other routes like ACT and EBC which meant the tea houses were very busy. Our guide ensured that we always had a room to stay in and was flexible with our itinerary if we wanted to walk further/fit in a visit to the hot spring. At times it was a bit difficult to communicate with the guide due to the language barrier and we found we were fitter so would often be walking ahead with one of the porters but over all we had a good experience and would recommend.
    Eleanor H
    Eleanor H
    2022-10-21
    Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek In Summer The whole trek went very smoothly.It was a 4 day trek.Guide and the porter both were very polite & professional no doubt.I didn't find anything negative in the service.Mr.Pradip helped us via telephone whenever we needed him.
    Deep Chakraborty
    Deep Chakraborty
    2022-07-11
    Trip of a lifetime The best part of being with this team is their ability and willingness to help in every way possible, at times even going out of their way to help. The professional approach to every aspect of a trip means the best deal will always be put on the table☺️.
    Papai B
    Papai B
    2022-07-06
    Excellent service provided by Mr.Pradip the founder Mr. Pradip the founder of the adventure mountain treks is very generous and very polite. He helped in all the ways possible. I have been pestering with questions regarding my packing list. He was so polite and answered all my queries without seeing the time. A very genuine person to do the trek and a very well organised person and the trek was perfect.
    adityanaravind
    adityanaravind
    2022-06-25
    May 2022 great EBC trekking experience Mr. TikkaThank you for organizing a great 14 day trek in May 2022.I want to thank our guide Dinesh and two great porters Anu and Prem for their effort in making our trek most enjoyable. All three gentlemen went above and beyond their duty to make us comfortable on our trek and giving us encouragement every step of the way.
    sham p
    sham p
    2022-06-03
    16 day tour to Gokyo Ri & EBC My girlfriend and I went on a 16 day tour to Gokyo Ri and Everest Base Camp and were in Nepal for almost 4 weeks. All I can say is that Pradip is an outstanding person. He took care of us from day one in Kathmandu, was extremely helpful and did everything so that we felt good and secure, not just on the trekking trail but also at every place we stayed in Nepal. Unforgettable experience which I highly recommend all of you share !
    Franck
    Franck
    2022-05-20
    3 Pass Trek with EBC well organized Dear Pradip,thanks for the Organisation of my 3 Pass Trek. It was soo komfortable for me to come to Nepal and the whole Trip was perfectly arranged. After 1 Organization Day in Kathmandu we Start the Trek in Luka for 18 Days. I can only say ! Good work had you done. I am Back in Germany and had perfect organized Trekking Thanks Adventure Mountain Nepal Trecking ! And also my Guide Padam Hendrik
    Henny B
    Henny B
    2022-04-18
    Best Agency for Travel and Trekking Experiences... I and my friends did a trekking experience with Adventure Mountain Nepal. I would like to thank the entire team for providing us a hospitable manner, professional service, and affordable package rate. Will recommend this company to all who’re going to Nepal for a trekking adventure.
    Unsaved Memo
    Unsaved Memo
    2022-02-03
    Gokyo Ri & Everest Base Camp Trek - January 2022 Cet agence touristique est réellement à l'écoute des besoins de ses clients et tente toujours de répondre à toutes leurs questions. J'ai pu tout organiser à distance avec Pradip Sharma qui a été très transparent sur les tarifs pratiqués et m'a accompagné dans la préparation de cette aventure, notamment en me guidant dans mes derniers achats à Katmandou et en m'évitant les arnaques.Pendant la randonnée, mon guide Mane s'est montré très professionnel lorsque la haute altitude est venue altérer ma condition physique. Son soutien et ses conseils ont été indispensables. Il est préférable d'organiser cette marche au printemps ou à l'automne pour éviter le froid pouvant aller jusqu'à -18°C...Il faut une dizaine de jours soit pour Gokyo Ri, soit pour EBC. Pour boucler les deux en un coup, il faut 15 jours.L'expérience est intense et parfois difficile mais reste inoubliable.
    Abdelhakc
    Abdelhakc
    2022-01-20
    私の旅行は楽しくて良かったです🥰❤️👍 私がこの会社から遊びできましたとてもいい会社です。もし誰かがネパールに旅行したいなら私が障害することもできます。この会社の値段も安いしサービスもとても良かった👍です。こちらのオーナーと他の社会人もとても親切とまじめ❤️です。 こんども私が旅行するときこの会社何回もら選びます。みんなさんネパールへ行ってみましょうネパールはとても美しい国💕です。よろしくお願いします🙏
    シマ
    シマ
    2021-12-29