Makalu Base Camp Trekking
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. Additionally, the Arun Valley is renowned for its Rudraksha trees, including some of the rarest Rudraksha beads found anywhere, adding a unique spiritual element to this adventurous trek.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).
AMT - TREK - 504
Spring & Fall
Challenging
West Col (6,190m/20,303ft)
Teahouses/Lodges
Flight/Jeep or Bus
BB/Full Board
Any
Any
Trip Itinerary
-
01Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 kmOur company representative will welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport and drive you by private vehicle to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ftAccommodation Hotels -
02Guided tour to Kathmandu’s World Heritage sites.
Breakfast in the morning, and then start for full day Kathmandu Sightseeing: Pashupati Nath temple, Boudhanath stupa, Patan Darbar Square, Swyambhunath temple, Hanuman Dhoka. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft)Accommodation Hotels -
03Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, Drive to Num
Flight Altitude: 1,285m (Kathmandu) to 518m (Tumlingtar)
Duration: 45 min flight, 4–5 hrs drive
Highlights: Scenic flight over eastern Himalayas, drive through rural villages.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Num (1560 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
04Trek from Num to Seduwa.
Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Steep descent to Arun River, climb through forest and farmland, entry into Makalu Barun National Park.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Seduwa (1,560 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
05Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon.
Duration: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Gradual climb, beautiful villages, terraced fields, dense forest.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Tashigaon (2063 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
06Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda.
Highlights: Short hikes to higher elevation, rest and altitude adjustment.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Khongma Danda (2,100 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
07Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate via Shipton La Pass.
Altitude: 3,560m to 3,650m via Shipton La (4,216m)
Duration: 7–8 hours
Passes Crossed: Shipton La (4,216m), Keke La (4,170m), Tutu La (4,075m)
Highlights: Multiple passes, breathtaking views of Makalu and surrounding peaks.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Shipton La Pass (4,216 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
08Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka.
Altitude: 3,650m to 3,557m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Trail through forest, river crossings, pasturelands.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Yangri Kharka (3,557 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
09Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka.
Altitude: 3,557m to 4,410m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Expansive views, grazing yaks, alpine terrain.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Langmale Kharka (4,410 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
10Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp.
Altitude: 4,410m to 5,050m
Duration: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Views of Mt. Makalu, Baruntse, and glaciers; rugged and dramatic landscapes.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Makalu Base Camp (5,050 meters).Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
11Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp.
Altitude: 5,050m
Highlights: Optional hike to viewpoints for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Makalu Base Camp (5,050 meters).Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
12Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka.
Altitude: 5,050m to 3,557m
Duration: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Retrace steps, downhill walking.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Yangri Kharka (3,557 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
13Trek from Yangri Kharka to Dobate.
Altitude: 3,557m to 3,650m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Dobate (3,650 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
14Trek from Dobate to Khongma Danda.
Altitude: 3,650m to 3,560m
Duration: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Climb back over Shipton La Pass.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Khongma Danda (2,100 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
15Trek from Khongma Danda to Tashigaon.
Altitude: 3,560m to 2,100m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Tashigaon (2,100 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
16Trek from Tashigaon to Seduwa.
Altitude: 2,100m to 1,530m
Duration: 4–5 hours
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Seduwa (1,530 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
17Trek from Seduwa to Num.
Altitude: 1,530m to 1,560m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Num (1,560 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
18Drive from Num to Tumlingtar.
Altitude: 1,560m to 518m
Duration: 4–5 hours
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Tumlingtar (518 meters)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges -
19Fly back to Kathmandu.
Altitude: 518m to 1,285m
Duration: 45 minutes
Highlights: Scenic Himalayan flight.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ftAccommodation Hotels -
20Final departure. Drop to airport as per flight schedule.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 kmOur representative will drop you at International Airport as per your flight schedule.
Meals BB/Full BoardMax Altitude Tribhuvan Internation Airport (1,338 m/4390 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/Lodges
Includes
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 3 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu – Tumlintar in Flight and drive to Num.
- Num - Tumling drive and Fly back to Kathmandu.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map .
- Trekking pole, Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- Required Permits.
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
Excludes
- International Airfare.
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking).
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
- Personal expenses for bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages, hot shower and battery charge during the trek.
- Alcoholic beverage.
- TIPS for Staff.
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Makalu base CampTrek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Clothing
Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.
Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).
Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.
Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.
Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.
2. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.
3. Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
4. Backpack and Accessories
Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.
Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.
Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.
6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.
Sunglasses: UV-protective, high-quality sunglasses to protect against the intense high-altitude sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for sun protection.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medications.
Toiletries: Eco-friendly soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
Camera and Extra Batteries: Since charging can be costly and unreliable at high altitudes.
7. Documents and Money
Passport and Permits: Passport, visa,TIMS card, and entry permit.
Cash: ATMs are not reliable in the mountains, so bring enough Nepali cash for personal expenses.
Customer Reviews
TripAdvisor 63+ Reviews
I feel like we were extremely lucky on this trip taking into account all help we've got from Pradip and his team. Traveling in Covid times is hard enough on it's own, still we had problems occuring all the time. Pradip was very helpful on every step of the travel. Sometimes I even think he never sleeps))) He went above and beyond to help our groups with all necessary paperwork to get to Nepal. Transportation, guide, porters, everything was organised without any problems. But the most memorable thing for me was Pradip's personal involvement in situation when we needed to get to Kathmandu from our trekking ASAP due to lockdown restrictions. As well as get our PCR-tests in one of the hospitals in KTM. Everything went as smooth as it possibly could on this journey. And who travelled to Nepal at least once, knows that something unexpected may happen suddenly at any moment:) Pradip was always in touch checking every step of our journey. I highly recommend hiring Pradip and services of his agency! I've tried services of couple travel agents in Nepal and have something to compare to. He is safe, supportive and very reliable partner in Nepal. And what else do you need to have great adventure.
TripAdvisor
Excellent trek with Pralad to EBC Dec 2024 I did a 12 day Everest Base Camp trek with Pralad during December 2024. This was an amazing experience both regarding the stunning nature on display and how well Pralad guided the journey. I have trekked with Pralad before and hope to do so again in future - I highly recommend his services. In my experience he is very adept at adjusting to the needs of the circumstances and the personalities of the guests. Accordingly, he knows when to push the pace or when to slow down so that the trek runs very smoothly. He knows when to start a chat or give the space to let you work through the challenges of a trek. He remains flexible on the schedule too, which in my case meant the difference as things turned out between having a clear day at EBC and Kala Patthar (as we had) or having had terrible inclement weather (which would have been the case were he not attuned to this possibility). Finally, the accommodations he selected were all very comfortable and all served excellent meals. I have no hesitation to recommend Pralad and his business for your trek to Nepal.
We began our Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek on April 26, 2025, and it was truly a journey of a lifetime. Huge thanks to Raj, Pralad, and the entire Adventure Mountain Trek team for taking such wonderful care of us throughout our Himalayan adventure. From the very beginning, we felt welcomed and well looked after. The team's warmth, knowledge, and professionalism made our 10-day trek not only smooth but incredibly enjoyable. We were absolutely spoiled — with hearty laughs, rich stories and history about the region, cozy accommodations, and most importantly, amazing food every step of the way! This trek will remain one of our most cherished travel experiences, and it's all thanks to this amazing crew. I will definitely be recommending Adventure Mountain Trek to my friends and loved ones. Nepal, we’re not done yet — I’ll be back for more soon! Thank you again for everything!
TripAdvisor
Oct 2024 I booked EBC with 2 pass(Chola and Renjola Pass) trek. They arranged everything from Kathmandu to Kathmandu in a very efficient way. The guide they allotted Mr. Bhim Rai was an excellent and experienced guide. I am impressed and do recommend Adventure Mountain Treks for trips in Nepal.
Pralad is the best guide one could ask for! We did EBC trek, beginning of December feels like best period to do this.
TripAdvisor
EBC Trek with Helicopter Return Oct 2022 • Friends A great trip. Well organised, our Guide Shyam had been very helpful. One of us ended up needing a horse and it was promptly managed. Starting from accomodation, food and helicopter ride back to Kathmandu, everything was pretty seamless. There were some places which could have been improved, but overall a reliable and fantastic trekking service which I will definitely recommend. All the best to future endeavours for Adventure Mountain Treks.
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