Makalu Base Camp Trek│22 Days Itinerary

Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a remarkable adventure that immerses you in the splendor of Mount Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest mountain, nestled in the remote eastern region of Nepal. This trek is a harmonious fusion of cultural exploration and natural marvels, catering to the desires of those who have a passion for both the great outdoors and thrilling escapades.

The journey commences with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, treating trekkers to awe-inspiring vistas of iconic peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Chamlang, Kanchenjunga, and the imposing Makalu itself. This aerial introduction sets the stage for the grandeur awaiting participants on the ground.

As you traverse through the diverse landscapes, the trek unveils the unique lifestyles and warm hospitality of the high-Himalayan communities. The intimate cultural encounters along the way contribute to the richness of the overall experience. The Makalu Base Camp Trek route takes you through the Makalu Barun National Park, a protected area renowned for its rich biodiversity, housing a plethora of flora and fauna.

What sets this trek apart is its deliberate avoidance of crowded trails, offering trekkers a serene and authentic Himalayan sojourn. While navigating through this less-explored terrain, participants are presented with challenges, including overcoming high passes, adding an adventurous edge to the journey. However, the challenges come with rich rewards, as trekkers are treated to the majesty of high-Himalayan lakes, expansive glaciers, lush pastures, and glimpses of the region’s wildlife.

Throughout the expedition, the trek balances cultural immersion, natural exploration, and adventurous endeavors. This unique combination positions the Makalu Base Camp Trek as an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable and holistic experience amidst the breathtaking wonders of the Himalayas.

The Highlights of Makalu Base Camp Trek

Explore diverse landscapes leading to the base of the world's fifth-tallest mountain, Mt. Makalu (8,463 meters) at Makalu Base Camp (4,870 meters).
Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar for breathtaking views.
Enjoy spectacular sights of Himalayan peaks like Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Experience the isolated lifestyle and hospitality of high-Himalayan communities.
Discover the rich variety of flora and fauna in Makalu Barun National Park.
Choose less crowded routes for a peaceful and genuine Himalayan trekking experience.
Face the challenge of trekking across high passes for an adventurous journey.
Marvel at the beauty of high-Himalayan lakes, glaciers, pastures, and encounter diverse wildlife.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

On your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, a representative from Green Valley Nepal Treks will greet you and take you to a comfortable three-star hotel in the city. You can rest at the hotel or explore Thamel for any final shopping. This day is for settling in, and you have the opportunity to get familiar with the surroundings and the trek plan.

Day 2 :

Makalu Base Camp Trek Permit Preparation and Sightseeing

On the second day, your guide for the Makalu Base Camp Trek will meet you after breakfast. They will introduce themselves and provide important details about the trek during this pre-trip meeting. To arrange your Makalu Base Camp Trek Permit, make sure to bring your passport, three passport-sized photos, and proof of travel insurance. If you're interested, the guide can organize a tour to one of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, or Kathmandu Durbar Square. It's a day to get ready for the trek and explore the vibrant surroundings of Kathmandu.

Day 3 :

Flight from Kathmandu (1400m) to Tumlingtar (410m) then Drive to Num (1560m)

On the third day, you'll be picked up from your hotel and taken to Kathmandu airport for a short 35-minute flight to Tumlingtar, marking the start of your Makalu Base Camp Trek. Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains during the flight. From Tumlingtar, a 30-minute drive on winding roads takes you to Kandbari, an important town in the area. The journey continues on a winding dirt road, reaching its highest point at 1,960 meters before descending to Chichila at 1,900 meters. Here, you'll encounter a small settlement with a police checkpoint where you'll need to show your trekking permit. The area offers beautiful views of tree-covered slopes. The road becomes rocky from Chichila onwards as you head towards Num, the destination for the day. It's a day of travel with changing landscapes, setting the stage for the trek ahead.

Day 4 :

Trek from Num (1560m) to Seduwa (1500m)

On this day, you'll embark on a trek from Num to Seduwa. The journey involves a lengthy and steep descent to the Arun River, followed by a challenging ascent to Seduwa. The trail consists of large stone stairs leading down to the river at 770 meters, passing through cardamom fields. After crossing a suspension bridge over the Arun River, you'll face a tough climb to Seduwa, passing through dense bamboo forests and a bustling village.

Day 5 :

Trek from Seduwa (1500m) to Tashigaon (2100m)

Without the strenuous ascents and descents like yesterday, today's trek is wonderful. As you approach the Sherpa settlement, you will start up a trail with numerous stone steps and pass by a number of mani walls. Your Makalu Base Camp Trek Route will go through rhododendron, and bamboo woods, as well as several tiny farms are strewn across the slope and cardamom plantations. Today's trek is definitely interesting and uneven. You will arrive at the little community of Chyaksa Danda at 1,900m in around two hours.

Day 6 :

Trek from Tashigaon (2100m) to Khongma Danda (3500m)

Leaving Tashigaon, you'll start your Makalu Base Camp Trek by climbing up stone stairs. Crossing a log bridge, you'll ascend through a stunning rhododendron forest, reaching Dhara, a tea house at 2,867m, in about three hours. This is your chance to have lunch, as there won't be another stop until Khongma.From Dhara, a challenging hour of climbing takes you to Unshisa at 3,200m, where you cross a large rock. Further uphill, navigating stone stairs through a rhododendron forest is required. After hours of demanding ascent from Unshisa, you'll reach a stone rest area adorned with prayer flags. Another 45 minutes of walking leads you to Khongma Danda at 3,500m, where there are three lodges. Be prepared for possible snow in this area. It's a day of challenging climbs and varied landscapes, offering a taste of the trek's physical demands.

Day 7 :

Acclimatization Day in Khongma Danda (3500m)

It's crucial to acclimatize properly, so today is an acclimatization day on your Makalu Base Camp Trek. Follow the advice and head up to Khongma La. Leave your tea house and trek through rhododendron bushes and stone stairs, reaching the pass at 3,890m in about an hour.It's a day to prepare your body for the changing altitudes and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Day 8 :

Trek from Khongma Danda (3500m) to Dobate (3068 m)

Today is an exciting day as you'll cross four high passes with stunning views of snow-capped peaks and dramatic ridge sections. The first pass, Khongma La at 3,890m, is reached after an hour of climbing through rhododendron bushes, offering views of Makalu and Chamlang. Your Makalu Base Camp Trek Route then descends briefly before ascending to the second pass, Sano Pokhari Danda, at 4,105 meters, with Sano Pokhari Lake below. The journey continues to the Shipton La at 4,200 meters, marked by a mani wall and cairn. Descending to Kalo Pokhari Lake at 4,080m, decorated with prayer flags for the Janai Purnima Festival, you'll then ascend the final pass, Keke La at 4,170m. After a 45-minute descent, you'll reach Dobate, where your lodge awaits. It's a challenging day of passes, but the breathtaking views make it all worthwhile.

Day 9 :

Trek from Dobate (3068 m) to Yangri Kharka (3557m)

Start your day with a pleasant descent through rhododendron and pine woods, making for an enjoyable trek. Be cautious on a steep slope, especially if there's still snow. As you reach the river, the Makalu Base Camp Trek continues along a trail beneath a large landslide area. After a short climb, you'll reach Themathang Kharka at 3,500m, with a tea house for a brief stop. The journey from Dobate to Themathang takes about four hours and offers views of a magnificent waterfall just before Themathang. After Themathang, you'll continue until reaching a wooden bridge over the Baron Khola. Following the undulating path along the river, you'll eventually reach the meadows of Yangri Kharka in about 1.5 hours from Themathang. It's a day of varied landscapes and natural beauty, providing a mix of challenges and scenic views.

Day 10 :

Trek from Yangri Kharka (3557m) to Langmale Kharka (4410m)

Today's trek is a pleasant and level walk along the river, surrounded by the invigorating scent of juniper. The Makalu Base Camp Trekking Trail is adorned with colorful prayer flags, and the panorama includes Peak 4, Peak 6, Peak 7, and Yaupa, with towering cliffs on either side. The journey offers a visual delight of snow-covered mountains, sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and sacred caves. After about 2.5 hours of trekking, the path widens as you pass through Jhak Kharka, Yak Kharka, and finally Merek, where a welcoming tea house awaits. It takes approximately two more hours from Merek to reach your tea house in Langmale.

Day 11 :

Trek from Langmale Kharka (4410m) to Makalu Base Camp (4870m)

Begin your ascent along a well-defined path on the Makalu Base Camp Trek route, keeping the river on your left as you zigzag through the valley. As you progress, Peak 4 comes into view, and after a few hours, you'll reach Shershong at 4,630m, a broad, level area with a small stone house, ideal for camping.Continuing on, Makalu Base Camp becomes visible around a few bends. The lodges appear after a short descent and crossing the river. Your long-awaited goal is reached, and the impressive Makalu, the fifth-highest peak in the world, dominates the scene. Around the base camp, you might spot Tibetan snow cocks, hill pigeons, black redstarts, and mountain finches. It's a moment of accomplishment and awe as you finally reach Makalu Base Camp.

Day 12 :

Explore Makalu Base Camp (4870m)

Today, aim for the ridge at around 5,300 meters above the base camp for stunning panoramic views. Cross the log bridge, then spend about three hours ascending a hazy, somewhat unclear trail. From this vantage point, you'll witness breathtaking views of Makalu, Peak 7, Peak 6, and Peak 4, along with Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. After soaking in the mountain spectacle, return to the base camp following the same path. The round trip may take 4-5 hours, and it's a challenging adventure due to the steep terrain and altitude exceeding 5,000m.

Day 13 :

Trek from Makalu Base Camp (4870m) to Yangri Kharka (3557m)

With a heavy heart, bid farewell to the stunning beauty of Mount Makalu and begin your journey back to Yangri Kharka. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the Shershong meadow, identified by a cabin covered in a bright orange tarp. Another hour or two will bring you back to Langmale, where you can enjoy tea and possibly lunch. After 1.15 hours of trekking, you'll reach the Merek tea house. Take a break, enjoy a cup of tea, and then continue on the Makalu Base Camp Trek Route through pine trees back to Yangri Kharka. From the tea house in Merek, it will take 2 to 3 hours to reach Yangri Kharka. It's a day of retracing your steps and reminiscing about the majestic landscapes you've encountered on the trek.

Day 14 :

Trek from Yangri Kharka (3557m) to Dobate (3068 m)

Enjoy a beautiful and relaxed stroll today as you follow the river down to the tea house at Themathang, passing through many rhododendron shrubs along the way. Just before reaching Themathang, you'll cross a wooden bridge. The journey to Themathang takes about 1.5 hours.As you approach the tea house at Dobate, the elevation gradually becomes gentler along the Makalu Base Camp Trek Route. It's a day of varied landscapes, providing a mix of challenges and scenic beauty.

Day 15 :

Trek from Dobate (3068m) to Danda Kharka (2900m)

In the final stretch of your Makalu Base Camp Trek, seize the opportunity to soak in the mesmerizing views of towering mountains, including Kangchenjunga. Start the ascent to Keke La, a 1.5-hour climb. Another 1.5 hours will lead you to Shipton La at 4,200 meters. Contouring around the slope, you'll reach the prominent cairn marking Sano Pokhari Danda at 4,105m after an additional hour.Descend to the last pass, Khongma La at 3,890m, identified by a mani wall, after an hour of undulating terrain. From Khongma, descend to Danda Kharka, a two-hour journey. It's a day of varied landscapes and a mix of challenging ascents and descents as you approach the end of your trek.

Day 16 :

Trek from Danda Kharka (2900m) to Seduwa (1500m)

Leaving the mountains behind, embark on a long and steep descent back to civilization, reflecting on the breathtaking adventure you've just completed. The three-hour journey from Danda Kharka to Tashi Gaun on your Makalu Base Camp Trekking Route takes you through rhododendron trees, steep terrain, and meadows. Passing through terraced farms in Tashi Gaun, enjoy lovely mountain vistas. Leaving the Makalu-Barun National Park, you'll traverse a mountainside, descend the Barun River, pass through bamboo and rhododendron woods, and finally reach Seduwa. Spend the night at a local lodge, reminiscing about the incredible journey.

Day 17 :

Trek from Seduwa (1500m) to Num (1560m) then Drive to Tumlingtar (410m)

Descend through stone stairs on a long, somewhat challenging trek down to the Arun River. As you go deeper into the forest, expect warmer temperatures. After crossing the river, make the climb back to Num, traversing through beautiful woodlands with ascents and descents. From Num, enjoy a scenic drive to Tumlingtar on winding mountain roads. Take in the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush surroundings, hillside settlements, and terrace farms.

Day 18 :

Flight from Tumlingtar (410m) to Kathmandu (1400m)

Start the day with a short and scenic morning flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. Upon arriving in the city, you'll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, use your free time to explore the city or pick up souvenirs for your loved ones. It's a day of travel and reflection on the memorable journey.

Day 19 :

Final Departure

Three hours before your flight, a tourist car will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the airport. It's time to bid farewell and conclude your journey.

FAQs

Expand all

Is the Makalu Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is known for being quite challenging and may not be the best choice for beginners. It’s recommended for trekkers to have good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience to handle the demands of this trek successfully.

How high is Makalu Base Camp?

Makalu Base Camp sits at an altitude of 5,000 meters above sea level. This means that when you reach the base camp, you’ll be standing at a height of 5,000 meters, which is something to keep in mind due to the potential challenges associated with high altitudes.

What type of accommodation is available during Makalu Base Camp Trek?

While trekking to Makalu Base Camp, you’ll have different options for accommodation. You can stay in teahouses and lodges, which offer basic amenities like beds and shared bathrooms. These are suitable for those who prefer a bit of comfort on the trek. Alternatively, camping is an option, which means setting up tents and using camping gear.

What kind of food is available during Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The food on the trek usually includes local dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), and noodle soup. You can choose from both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The meals are designed to provide energy for trekking and are a mix of local flavors, making the culinary aspect of the journey an interesting part of the overall experience.

Do I need travel insurance for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Yes, it’s strongly advised to get good travel insurance for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Since the trek happens in a remote and isolated area, with limited access to medical help, having insurance ensures you’re covered in case of any unexpected situations or emergencies.

Is altitude sickness a concern during Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern because the trek goes to high places. To avoid it, make sure to get used to the altitude, drink lots of water, and if you feel sick, it’s important to see a doctor. Taking these steps helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable trek, minimizing the risks associated with high altitudes.

What is the best time to trek to Makalu Base Camp?

The prime time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is from September to November and March to May. During these periods, the weather is generally clear and stable, providing optimal conditions for trekking. The stunning mountain views are at their best during these months, enhancing the overall experience.

How long does it take to complete the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Typically, completing the Makalu Base Camp Trek takes about 14 to 21 days. The duration can vary based on factors such as the chosen route and the pace at which the trekker progresses.

How hard is the Makalu base camp trek?

The difficulty level of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a common inquiry, and it’s essential to consider various factors. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,000 meters, presenting a challenge for some trekkers. The high altitude necessitates proper acclimatization, and individuals undertaking the journey should be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions.