MAKALU BASE CAMP TREK –
Journey to the Hidden Himalayas

“Where wilderness remains untouched and the spirit of exploration awakens.”

Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, pristine, and rewarding Himalayan journeys, leading adventurers deep into the heart of the eastern Himalayas. This trek takes you to the base of Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world, offering an authentic expedition-style trekking experience far from crowded trails.

Passing through the Makalu Barun National Park, the route reveals an extraordinary contrast of landscapes — from lush subtropical forests and terraced hillsides to alpine meadows, glaciers, and dramatic high-altitude valleys. This journey is ideal for trekkers seeking raw nature, solitude, cultural depth, and spiritual connection with the mountains.

Why This Journey Is Special

• One of Nepal’s least-traveled and most unspoiled treks

• Base camp views of Mount Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse

• Trek through the Makalu Barun National Park, a biodiversity hotspot

• Rich encounters with Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan-influenced cultures

• Deep sense of wilderness, silence, and inner exploration

Journey Highlights

• Scenic flight to Tumlingtar

• Trekking through remote villages, forests, and high Himalayan valleys

• Crossing the dramatic Shipton La Pass

• Spectacular views of Makalu Glacier and Icefall

• Reaching Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

• Exploration of alpine landscapes rarely seen by trekkers

Itinerary (19 Days / 18 Nights)

Day 01 – Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel and trek briefing.

Day 02 – Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing & Preparation
Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Trek permits and final preparation.

Day 03 – Fly to Tumlingtar (460 m)
Scenic flight to eastern Nepal. Overnight at Tumlingtar.

Day 04 – Drive to Num (1,560 m)
Drive through hills and rural villages. Overnight at Num.

Day 05 – Trek to Seduwa (1,500 m)
Enter Makalu Barun National Park. Trek through forests and terraced fields.

Day 06 – Trek to Tashigaon (2,100 m)
Gradual ascent through traditional mountain villages.

Day 07 – Acclimatization Day at Tashigaon
Rest, short hikes, and altitude adaptation.

Day 08 – Trek to Khongma Danda (3,500 m)
Steep climb into alpine terrain with panoramic views.

Day 09 – Trek to Dobate (3,850 m)
Cross high passes including Shipton La. Dramatic mountain scenery.

Day 10 – Trek to Yangri Kharka (3,600 m)
Descend into remote high valleys with grazing lands.

Day 11 – Trek to Langmale Kharka (4,400 m)
Follow glacial rivers with increasing Himalayan views.

Day 12 – Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)
Reach the base of Mount Makalu. Explore glaciers and surroundings.

Day 13 – Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp
Sunrise views, short hikes, and rest at base camp.

Day 14 – Trek back to Yangri Kharka
Retrace steps through alpine landscapes.

Day 15 – Trek to Dobate
Climb back over high passes.

Day 16 – Trek to Tashigaon
Descend into greener landscapes.

Day 17 – Trek to Num & Drive to Tumlingtar
Final trekking day followed by a scenic drive.

Day 18 – Fly to Kathmandu
Return flight. Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

Day 19 – Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to airport for final departure.

Cost Includes

• Airport transfers (private vehicle)

• Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu

• All ground transportation as per itinerary

• Makalu Barun National Park permits & TIMS card

• Professional English-speaking trekking guide

• Porters (as per group size)

• Accommodation during the trek (teahouse / lodge)

• Accommodation in Kathmandu (standard category)

• All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

• First-aid kit and emergency support

• All staff wages, insurance, and equipment

• All applicable government taxes

Cost Excludes

• International airfare

• Nepal visa fees

• Personal trekking gear and equipment

• Travel and medical insurance

• Personal expenses (drinks, Wi-Fi, charging, tips)

• Extra accommodation or meals in Kathmandu

• Costs due to weather, delays, or unforeseen circumstances

Best Season

• Spring: March – May

• Autumn: September – November

Difficulty Level

Challenging
High-altitude trek requiring good fitness, prior trekking experience, and strong endurance.