Makalu Base Camp Trek

Trip Overview

Makalu Base Camp Trek 

 Makalu Base Camp Trekking course lies in the territory of Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area in the core of Eastern Nepal. The principle point of convergence of this trek is Makalu Barun National Park in Solukhumbhu and Sankhuwasabha locale. The National Park is set up in 1992. Makalu trekking is in the past a confined trekking region, it degree five noteworthy environmental zones where the rich, tropical Arun Valley, thick timberlands or rhododendron and fir and snowcapped knolls can be discovered that prompt the compelling Barun icy mass. Mount Makalu (8463m) the world’s fifth most astounding pinnacle; ChamlangHimal and Barun Valley are the real gems of this Trekking zone. Makalu trekking district and Everest trekking locale are near each other. Makalu Base Camp Trekking is a testing and an exceptional and the trek up to Makalu Base Camp Trip is a standout amongst the most remote and unfrequented trekking regions of Trekking in Nepal.

The trek begins in warm, terraced farmland occupied by the Rai individuals, an ethnic gathering discovered dominatingly in the slopes of eastern Nepal. As the course rises, you will go through rhododendron woods (most noteworthy in the spring, when the blossoms sprout stunning red, purple, pink and white) and cloud woodlands, through a portion of the last zones of unblemished timberland and snowcapped knolls in Nepal.Settled in the lower spans of Barun and Arun valleys are groups of Rai, Sherpa, and Shingsawa (Bhotia) ranchers. In spite of the fact that monetarily poor and confined, they hold a rich social legacy. They hold the way to the conservation of the novel organic and social fortunes of the Makalu Barun zone. The Makalu-Barun zone is minimal known to most voyagers because of its relative detachment. Be that as it may, that couples of hundred trekkers and mountain dwellers who visit every year leave away with a remarkable affair.

It is prompted that you have a past trekking knowledge and be in a decent condition of wellbeing before you begin your trek to Makalu area. Just full outdoors Makalu trek is conceivable in this district with all provisions conveyed by nearby watchmen from the very beginning.

Best Season: The best time to trek to Makalu Base Camp is during the autumn months of September to November and the spring months of March to May. During these seasons, the weather is generally dry and stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.

Rules & Permits:

As for permits and regulations for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, the following are the main requirements:

  1. Restricted Area Permit: The Makalu region is a restricted area, and all trekkers are required to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) through a registered trekking agency. The RAP fee is higher than for other trekking regions.
  2. Makalu Barun National Park Permit: Trekkers must obtain a Makalu Barun National Park permit to enter the Makalu Barun National Park, which is required for the initial part of the trek.
  3. TIMS Card: Trekkers must also obtain a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, which can be obtained through a registered trekking agency or through the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu.
  4. Local Regulations: Trekkers are expected to respect local culture and traditions, including dressing modestly and asking permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites. Trekking agencies can provide guidance on local customs and traditions.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar then drive to Chichira (1,980m/6497ft): 50 mins flight, 3-4 hours drive
Day 04: Chichira to Num (1,560m/5119ft): 6-7 hours
Day 05: Num to Seduwa (1,500m/4922 ft): 6-7 hours
Day 06: Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,100m/6890ft): 4-5 hours
Day 07: Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3,500m/11,483 ft): 6-7 hours
Day 08: Acclimatization/Rest
Day 09: Khongma Danda to Dobate: 6-7 hours
Day 10: Dobate to Yangri Kharka (3,557m/11,670 ft): 6-7 hours
Day 11: Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka: (4,410m/14,468ft): 5-6 hours
Day 12: Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp: (4,870m/15,978ft): 6-7 hours
Day 13: Explore Makalu Base Camp
Day 14: Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka: 6-7 hours
Day 15: Yangri Kharka to Dobate: 6-7 hours
Day 16: Dobate to Khongma Danda: 5-6 hours
Day 17: Khongma Danda to Tashigaon: 4-5 hours
Day 18: Tashigaon to Seduwa: 4-5 hours
Day 19: Seduwa to Num: 5-6 hours
Day 20: Num to Tumlingtar: 6-7 hours
Day 21: Tumlingtar to Kathmandu: 50 mins flight
Day 22: Final departure

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Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Glacier will pick us up from the airport and take us to our hotel. In the afternoon, we may take a rest or visit Himalayan Glacier’s office. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Himalayan Glacier. For dinner, you will be served excellent Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the country’s food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Included meals:Dinner
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Included meals:Breakfast
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar then drive to Chichira (1,980m/6497ft): 50 mins flight, 3-4 hours drive

We fly to Tumlingtar after breakfast and meet the rest of the crew members who will also be joining us for the trek. Next, we drive to Chichira, a small Gurung settlement. We take a rest at Chichira as we need to be prepared for the next day’s trek. Overnight in Chichira.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 04: Chichira to Num (1,560m/5119ft): 6-7 hours

We start early in the morning and head towards Num right after a warm breakfast. A moderately paced walk through the picturesque villages and lush mountain forests will take us to Num. A ridge line with great views on both side and perched on the end, this is Num for us. Overnight in Num.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 05: Num to Seduwa (1,500m/4922 ft): 6-7 hours

A steep descent through forests and terraced farms takes us to Barun River. We cross the river and follow an equally steep ascent up the other side again. Often quite hot – the forest on the valleys offer a bit of shade. This is where Makalu Barun National Park begins and where we register our permits. We camp right at the top of the village. Overnight in Seduwa.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 06: Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,100m/6890ft): 4-5 hours

Ascend the ridge bounded by the Ipsuwa Khola on the west and Kasuwa Khola to the east. Crossing the hillside through quiet villages and passing by small paddy fields, we reach the exotic village of Tashi Gaon. Once there, we are surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan panorama. Overnight in Tashigaon.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 07: Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3,500m/11,483 ft): 6-7 hours

This will be a bit of a tough day as we have to walk on a steep trail in higher elevation. We will ascend through forests to a stream and then onto a ridge. From here the trail gets even steeper and passes a Kharka (grazing land) and finally follows a series of rough stone stairs and small lakes ascending to the top of the ridge. From here it’s a short way down to Khongma Danda. Overnight in Khongma Danda.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 08: Acclimatization/Rest

The day off will allow some bodily rest before we take on crossing of the Shipton La the next day. For those who wish to explore the nearby surrounding can walk around the area. Overnight in Khongma Danda.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 09: Khongma Danda to Dobate: 6-7 hours

Climb towards the summit of the Shipton La (pass) which takes a few hours to reach. After the lake Kalo Pokhari (3930m), pass over the Keke La at 4,170m.  We can see the marvelous views of Chamlang (7321m), Peak 6 (6,524m) and Peak 7 (6,758m). After crossing the Keke La pass, we descend through the beautiful valley to Dobate. Overnight in Dobate.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 10: Dobate to Yangri Kharka (3,557m/11,670 ft): 6-7 hours

From Dobate, we pass through the rhododendron forest which leads to the Barun River and the upper reaches of the valley. We should be very careful during the first two hours of trek as the trail is steep and arduous. We then take a pleasant walk, slowly gaining altitude until we arrive at Yangri Kharka situated at the base of the valley. Overnight at Yangri Kharka.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 11: Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka: (4,410m/14,468ft): 5-6 hours

Following a moderate walk to the valley, we pass through yak pastures, lush forests and boulder fields. The valley walls tower imposingly above us during the start of the trek.  We pass Merek as we make our way further up and notice a significant rise in the scenic Himalayan views. Overnight in Langmale Kharka.

Day 12: Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp: (4,870m/15,978ft): 6-7 hours

Today is the day we make it to the Base Camp. From Langmale Kharka we make our way up to Shershong and eventually to Makalu Base Camp. The trail is flat with icy glaciers and snow clad mountains accompanying us. Mount Makalu comes into view as we approach Shershong. As we make our way to the camp, we get to soak in the majestic Himalayan panorama surrounding us. Overnight at Makalu Base Camp.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 13: Explore Makalu Base Camp

The Base Camp is a rocky barren place with the large Barun Glacier beyond it. From here we can see the magnificent south face of Makalu and the complete panorama of Everest and Lhotse. We can explore the surrounding lakes, glaciers and go for a short trek up where we may celebrate our accomplishment at the camp itself. Overnight at Makalu Base Camp.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 14: Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka: 6-7 hours

We descend down from the base camp and take our last glimpse of Makalu before turning the corner and heading back. On our way down, we pass through Shershong, Langmale Kharka, Merek and descend down the valley finally stopping at Yangri Kharka. Overnight at Yangri Kharka.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 15: Yangri Kharka to Dobate: 6-7 hours

From Yangri Kharka we descend through rock falls, green forests and valley, making our way towards Dobate. We follow the river banks of Barun as we descend down the trail. Overnight at Dobate.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 16: Dobate to Khongma Danda: 5-6 hours

We begin the trek with steep climb from Dobate to Mumbuk (Nambuk) and through a forest of firs and rhododendrons. We then cross the Keke La, Tutu La (Shipton’s Pass) and Kauma La en route. Next, we descend to Khongma Danda again. Overnight in Khongma Danda.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 17: Khongma Danda to Tashigaon: 4-5 hours

The trek continues with frequent long and steep descent cutting through the hillsides. The trail takes us through thick forests and finally making it to the indigenous Sherpa village of Tashigaon. Overnight in Tashigaon.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 18: Tashigaon to Seduwa: 4-5 hours

We retrace our steps as we exit the Makalu Barun National Park and descend down to the Barun River. We then cross the hillside and come across villages and settlements as we move further down finally stopping at Seduwa again. Overnight at Seduwa.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 19: Seduwa to Num: 5-6 hours

We leave Seduwa and trek through lush forests towards Num. The trail goes up and down and passes through dense forests and Sherpa villages as we move downwards. Overnight at Num.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 20: Num to Tumlingtar: 6-7 hours

Again we retrace our footsteps to Chichira from where we can savor the glorious vista of Mount Makalu for the last time. The final return leg of the trek will see us overnight at Tumlingtar, ready for an early departure to Kathmandu the following day. Overnight at Tumlingtar.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 21: Tumlingtar to Kathmandu: 50 mins flight

Today, we fly back to Kathmandu after our long trek in the mountains. We can rest and relax throughout the day at our hotel or get in touch with our loved ones. In the evening we celebrate our successful jouney to the Makalu base camp and back with a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Included meals:Breakfast Dinner
Day 22: Final departure

Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! A Himalayan Glacier representative will drop us off at the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Included meals:Breakfast

Cost Included

Included:

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu (usually 2-3 nights)
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and back)
  • All necessary trekking permits (including Makalu Barun National Park Permit and TIMS Card)
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Accommodation during the trek (teahouses or tents)
  • Experienced trekking guide and porter(s)
  • Insurance, wages, and equipment for guide and porter(s)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • All government taxes and fees

 

Excluded:

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel and medical insurance (recommended)
  • Personal expenses (such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and laundry)
  • Extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu in case of early return or delays
  • Tips for guide and porter(s)

Before You Go

  1. Physical fitness: The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a strenuous trek that involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and long walking hours. You should be in good physical condition and able to walk for several hours a day with a backpack.
  2. Packing: Make sure to pack warm and waterproof clothing, as well as comfortable trekking shoes, a sleeping bag, and a daypack. Check with your trekking company for a complete packing list.
  3. Altitude sickness: The trek reaches high altitudes, so it’s important to take proper precautions to avoid altitude sickness. Make sure to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body.
  4. Trekking company: It’s important to choose a reputable and experienced trekking company to guide you on the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Check their reviews, credentials, and safety record before booking.
  5. Permits: You’ll need a Makalu Barun National Park Permit and a TIMS Card to trek in the area. Your trekking company should help you obtain these permits.
  6. Weather: The best time to trek to Makalu Base Camp is from October to November and from March to May, when the weather is dry and clear. However, weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it’s important to be prepared for all conditions.

FAQ:

 

  1. What is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging trek in the eastern region of Nepal that takes you through diverse landscapes, including beautiful rhododendron forests, high-altitude passes, and glacial valleys, before reaching the Makalu Base Camp, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Makalu mountain range.

  1. How difficult is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek and requires a good level of fitness and stamina. The route involves steep ascents and descents, crossing high-altitude passes, and walking on rugged terrain. Altitude sickness can also be a concern on this trek, so acclimatization is important.

  1. What is the best time of year to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The best time to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek is during the dry season, which runs from October to November and from March to April. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry, making for good trekking conditions. However, the trek can also be done in the monsoon season (June to August), but be prepared for leeches, slippery trails, and limited views due to cloudy weather.

  1. How long does the Makalu Base Camp Trek take?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes around 18 to 20 days, depending on your itinerary and pace. The trek involves long days of walking, so it’s important to take your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

  1. What kind of accommodation is available on the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

There are several basic teahouses and lodges along the Makalu Base Camp Trek route that offer simple accommodation and meals. Most teahouses have shared rooms with twin beds or bunk beds, and communal dining areas where you can enjoy meals and meet other trekkers.

  1. Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Hiring a guide is highly recommended for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, as the route can be challenging to navigate and altitude sickness can be a concern. A guide can also offer valuable information about the local culture and customs, as well as provide support and assistance throughout the trek.

  1. What should I pack for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

You should pack appropriate clothing for the season, including warm layers for the cold nights and early mornings, a waterproof jacket, comfortable hiking boots or shoes, a hat and sunglasses, sunscreen, a first aid kit, a water bottle or hydration system, a headlamp or flashlight, and a camera or phone for taking pictures. You should also bring any personal medications or toiletries you may need. It’s important to pack a sturdy backpack and some cash, as ATM machines are scarce along the route.

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