Makalu Base Camp Trek

Customize Trip
53 reviews
8 reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
21 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4870m
Activities
Trekking

Are you planning to trek through off the beaten path in eastern Nepal quite close to the Everest region? If the reply is ‘Yes’, Makalu Base Camp trek is one of the best Nepal trekking packages you must choose. Makalu Base Camp trek leads you through the least crowded trekking trail of Nepal rewarding with snowcapped peaks and lush valleys. The mixture of varieties of ethnic communities and diverse plant and animal species also makes Makalu Base Camp trek more memorable. Trekking along the most peaceful trail listening to the birds’ chirping feels like as if they are encouraging your further move.

Makalu Base Camp trek directs you to the highest altitude 4,870m by enjoying the stunning view of forests and peaks. Glimpses of five of the eight-thousanders: Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Makalu are incredible! Looking at the typical housing styles and reflection of socio-cultural aspects of the mixed community people makes your journey meaningful. The natural waterfalls, glacial lakes and dazzling looks of the snowy mountains is another beauty of your Makalu region trek.

Baptised under the fifth highest peak of the world, Mount Makalu (8,468m), Makalu Base Camp trek is a lifelong memories. Trek to Makalu Base Camp gives you the joy of Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area, Barun Valley and Arun Valley. Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area (MBNPCA) hosts many plant and animal species pleasing thousands of tourists every year. You can observe MBNPCA which is the home for nearly 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 birds and 75 animal species. 25 species of rhododendron and animals like snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan thar and red panda are decoration of MBNPCA.

Arun Valley, one of the largest valleys in the world is also a site worth observing en route Makalu Base Camp trek. Arun valley trek grants you a noble glimpse of the snow-clad peaks of the Everest region hailing at you. Arun valley trek is important from historical perspective as Arun Valley Civilization is an ancient human civilization in the world. Barun valley on the banks of the Barun River is equally beautiful tourist destination having quality lodges in Makalu region. Barun valley trek is challenging but gives you a wonderful chance to delve into wilderness in the unpopulated region.

Makalu Base Camp trek starts either from Tumlingtar after an hour-long flight from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu or Dhankuta Hile Bazaar. Dhankuta Hile Bazaar located in the eastern Nepal is about 13 hours’ driving in a bus or private jeep from Kathmandu. You can find Makalu Base Camp trek 14 days itinerary, Makalu Base Camp trek 22 days itinerary and so on. But, Orbit Alpine Adventure gives you the detailed information about Makalu Base Camp trek 21 days itinerary in this article. In fact, you can customize Makalu Base Camp trek package according to your necessity at the most reasonable cost.

Highlights

  • Ascent to the base camp of the fifth highest peak of the world, Mount Makalu
  • Exploration of the world’s largest and deepest valley, Arun Valley
  • Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area and its diverse flora and fauna
  • Panoramic appearance of the mountain giants of the Everest region and Makalu region from Makalu Base Camp (4,870m)
  • Appealing sight of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Chamlang, Mt. Baruntse and Barun Glacier
  • Brilliant scenery from Makalu high passes like Keke La (4,230m) and Shipton’s Pass (4,200m)
  • Scenic flight to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu Airport
  • Familiarity with the serene nature and unique ethnic culture of Makalu region
Makalu Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day-to-DayExpand all

You can sleep till late morning today for a full-fledged relaxation of mind and body as it is acclimatization day. When you get up, the beautiful sunrise view from Makalu Base Camp is very splendid to soothe your travel fatigue. Now, you will realize the output of the challenging off the beaten path trekking to Makalu region. The astonishing sight of the snowy peaks of the Everest region will really make you feel accomplished once again in your life. You have already done the great job to share with your nearer and dearer ones in the future. During the day time, you can take short side trips around Makalu Base Camp for exploring glaciers, small ponds and waterfalls including forests.

Max Altitude: (4,870m/15,978ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, dinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Today is the last day of your Makalu Base Camp trekking package. Therefore, the representative of Orbit Alpine Adventure will escort you up to Tribhuvan International Airport for final see-off. However, if you have still some days to enjoy in Nepal, we shall help you plan next travel and trekking package. Breakfast

Max Altitude: (1,350m/4,429ft) Meals: Breakfast

By taking Tumlingtar Kathmandu flight as scheduled by the airlines, you will fly back to Kathmandu. During Tumlingtar Kathmandu flight, you will bid farewell to the majestic Makalu region for the last time this year. After landing in Kathmandu, you can spend the day either by partying with your fellow trekkers or go shopping or take a complete rest. The choice is all yours!

Max Altitude: (1,350m/4,429ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell DinnerAccommodation: Three Star Hotel

Take a deep breath after you wake up because you have already done the Makalu Base Camp trek successfully for lifelong memory. You have already gathered the memories of wilderness, diverse culture and tradition, sight of the varieties of plants and animals! You have made off the beaten path journey to Nepalese Himalayas that you can narrate later in life. Today, you will trek down to Tumlingtar for the night stay where you can make a grand celebration of your success! 

Max Altitude: (410m/1345ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 3 hours

Today, you will continue your journey through a trail that passes along dense forests and steep cliffs of Makalu region. En route, you will notice Tome village in the Arun valley region. Along the Sankhuwa River banks, you will reach Bumling, a Kshetri village for the night stay.

Max Altitude: (370m/1,213ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 hours

The Makalu Base Camp trekking trail today moves downwards along the Ishpuwa Khola over which a few suspension bridges are made. The notable attraction of this trail is Chayang, a Rai village where people follow Kirant religion. Then walking uphill and downhill trail, you will reach Pukuwa by walking past Parangbu village situated on the Arun River banks. You will stay right here by enjoying the wilderness and beautiful landscapes.

Max Altitude: (550m/1,804ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6/7 hours

Today, you will descend the trail leading Balung at the height of 760m, another station of Makalu Base Camp trek. By crossing the Kasuwa River valley, you will move further along the banks of the Arun River. On the way, you will see Mulgaun embellished by fields suitable for corn and barley cultivation in suitable seasons.. Following the rocky trail, you will reach Balung to spend the night. Balung is a village en route Makalu Base Camp trekking trail where Rai and Kshetri people are dwelling in harmonious relationship from ages. 

Max Altitude: (760m/2,493ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Tonight you will trek up to Tashi Gaun and spend the night.

Max Altitude: (2,070m/6,791ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5/6 hours

Today, you will spend the night at Khongma Gaun.

Max Altitude: (3,470m/11,385ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 hours

From Nehe Kharka, the trekking journey continues until Mumbuk for the night stay.

Max Altitude: (3,570m/11,713ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6/7 hours

The sense of victory over off the beaten path trekking to Makalu Base Camp, you will descend to Nehe Kharka as you have already witnessed the feat! The stunning view of the forests, snowcapped peaks of the Everest region and species of animals and birds will accompany you to move further.

Max Altitude: (3,000m/9,843ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 hours

The representative from Orbit Alpine Adventure will come to receive you at the Tribhuvan International airport, Kathmandu. S\he will take you to the hotel for your rest for the night.

Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Three star hotel

The trail goes uphill and downhill by crossing small passes in Makalu Base Camp trekking route along the Barun Khola banks. By experiencing the mesmerizing outlooks of the eight-thousanders in the eastern Nepal, you will ascend to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m). From Makalu Base Camp, the panoramic view of Arun Valley, landscapes covered with dense forests and snow-clad peaks are just fabulous. You will spend the night at Makalu Base Camp where you can take a complete rest tonight. 

Max Altitude: (4,870m/15,978ft) Meals: Breakfast, lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 4/5 hours

Today, you will follow the trekking trail which moves along the large prayer wall reflecting Buddhist culture in Makalu region. As the altitude of the trail increases, the density of the forests decreases limiting to the bushes of rhododendron, berries and juniper. This Makalu Lower Base Camp trek rewards you with the rarely magnificent view of the Barun Glacier and Mt. Makalu. Moving ahead, you enjoy the meadows with yaks and sheep grazing in the wonderful sight of Mt. Baruntse to reach Sherson. 

Max Altitude: (4,165m/13,665ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 hours

Walking along the trail close to the Barun Khola premises, the travel moves further through Tamatan Kharka (‘Kharka’ means ‘meadow’ in local dialect). Some of the parts of the trail may be slippery, so, you need to be careful during the journey. Crossing Yangri Kharka, a seasonal shed region for yaks and sheep, you will reach Nehe Kharka for the night station. 

Max Altitude: (3,000m/9,843ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 hours

Today, you will move further upwards along the trail offering you the snowcapped peaks and beautiful landscapes covered with dense forests. On the way, you will come across two natural ponds: Thulo Pokhari and Sano Pokhari (‘Pokhari’ means pond in Nepali language). Khongma Danda Mumbuk trek feels a bit challenging because of Keke La Pass (4,230m) and Tutu La Pass (4,200m). Tutu La Pass was first crossed by Eric Shipton in 1954, so, it is also known as Shipton’s Pass in Makalu region. The dense forests of pine, birch, hemlock and rhododendron hosting varieties of animal and plant species are worth exploring. You spend the night at Mumbuk relishing the local cuisines accompanied by natural environment.

Max Altitude: (3,570m/11,713ft) Meals: Breakfast,Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 hours

From Tashi Gaun, you will start the journey upwards along the trail that introduces you with the grazing meadows. You see the herds of yaks and sheep relishing the organic grass enjoying the lovely environment. Moving along the dense forests of rhododendron and oak, the trip proceeds via many kharkas (meadows) and trails paved with stones. Finally, your trekking journey stops on the top of a ridge which is known as Khongma Danda. 

Max Altitude: (3,470m/11,385ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 hours

Your trekking begins early in the morning by ascending along the trail that passes between the Ispuwa Khola and the Kasuwa Khola. You will enjoy the paddy cultivation land and the peaceful villages in the wilderness en route to a beautiful Tashi Gaun. Spending the night at Tashi Gaun is remarkably memorable as you can enjoy the surrounding of Himalayan panorama.

Max Altitude: (2,070m/6,791ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 hours

Today, your trail the steep following the banks of the Arun River valley which is suitable for crops production. Seduwa is the entrance to Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area from Seduwa, so take a permit there. You spend the night there assimilating the beauty of nature and cultural diversity.

Max Altitude: (1,460m/4,790ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6/7 hours

To reach Tumlingtar, the gateway to Makalu Base Camp trek, you will take Kathmandu Tumlingtar flight for about an hour. Kathmandu Timlingtar flight gives you the best vistas of high Himalayas of Nepal including eight-thousanders situated in the eastern part. From this small hill trade hub, trekking to Makalu Base Camp formally begins and takes you to Num. Then, the trail goes past a village Chilchila by enjoying the picturesque villages and Himalayan forests

Max Altitude: (1,490m/4,888ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Today, your guide will take you for Kathmandu sightseeing tour which is amazing firsthand experience in Nepal. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathamndu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple and Bouddhanath Stupa. You can know about the historical and religious importance of such sites including art and architecture used in building them. In the evening, the guide gives you the brief summary about the trekking package, trekking gears and equipments.  

Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Three star hotel
Cost Details
Includes
  • 3 night three star level hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast
  • Airport drop and pick up upon your arrival and final departure back to home with private vehicles free of cost
  • Three meals a day with cup of tea, coffee or hot water (breakfast, lunch,dinner) during the trekking period
  • Highly experienced Sherpa English speaking guide of government licence holder
  • Strong and honest Sherpa potter(2 people one potter) with all safety equipment
  • All food, accommodation, salary insurance, transportation and necessary equipment for Sherpa guide and potter
  • All necessary permit of Makalu Barun National park permit and TIMS(Trekking Information Management System) for Arun Valley Treks
  • Trekking lodge or teahouse accommodation for guest
  • An assistant guide for the group above the 5 person
  • Flight ticket for Tumlingtar and return back from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
  • Seasonal fresh fruits every night after the dinner during the trekking period
  • Down jacket, duffel bag and trekking sticks are provided from Orbit Alpine Adventure and after finishing the trek you have to return back to agency which are given to other guest for trekking
  • All the necessary first aid kits including oxy meters is carried by your Sherpa guide and any one in the team can use when it is needed
  • Emergency rescue service will be operated incorporation with your insurance company if needed in case of emergency
  • All Government, local tax and official expenses are included in the price
Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa fee ( you can get a nepal visa quickly upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport) in Kathmandu. Visa fee per person 15 days USD 25, for 30 days USD 40 and for 90 days USD 100
  • Extra night accommodation and meals before and after the trek
  • All kinds of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks during the trekking which in not included in cost
  • Travel insurance, trekkers have to bring themself insurance which cover medical and emergency high altitude rescue
  • Personal clothing and trekking equipment
  • additional cost if the itinerary modification or delay caused by out of management control like natural calamities, strick, sudden government policy changes, due to physical conditions of guest
  • Tips and donation to guides, potter, driver and different placeses (tips to guide, potter and driver are recommended)
  • Any other different expenses which are not mention in the " inclusive section" of our program
Makalu Base Camp Trek FAQs

To know about Makalu Base Camp trek costand itinerary, you can simply contact Orbit Alpine Adventure. They will let you know about the best Makalu Base Camp trekking itinerary at the most reasonable cost.

Obviously, you can get the customized packages of Makalu Base Camp trek depending upon your vacation, budget and choice. To get the customized package of Makalu Base Camp trek, don’t forget to reach Orbit Alpine Adventure either via phone calls or email or online booking sources.

In fact, trekking to all the Himalayan regions of Nepal is almost same and so are topography, residential areas, vegetation and wildlife. However, Makalu Base Camp trek is unique in its features like the scenery, trekking trails, landscapes and cultural aspects. Although you are trekking to Makalu Base Camp, you can equally observe the beauty of the snowy peaks of the Everest region. You can have a mesmerizing sight of five of the 8 eight-thousanders: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Makalu. Arun Valley, one of the largest valley in the world lies in Makalu Base Camp trekking trail. Barun valley in the enclosure of Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area is another notable sight of Makalu Base Camp trek.

Solo trek to Makalu Base Camp can be done as there is no restricted zone in this region but you had better hire a professional guide. The guide and the porter can help you in case of problems during the trekking.

The exposure of the snowcapped peaks of the Everest region, Makalu region and Kanchenjunga region. The varieties of flora and fauna found in this region is another view you would love to have. The view of the Arun River Valley and Barun River Valley, Mt. Chamlang, Mt. Baruntse and the Barun Glacier is equivalently superb. The forests from tropical to alpine region is yet another typical view of Makalu Base Camp trek.

Talking about the Makalu Base Camp trek difficulty, it is moderate type of trekking as the highest altitude to reach is 4,870m. The highest pass Keke La Pass (4,230) must be climbed while trekking from Khongma Danda to Mumbuk. Next, Makalu Base Camp trek is entirely a teahouse trekking. However, if you prefer and can manage all the camping equipment and a professional crew, camping trekking to Makalu Base Camp is also possible.

Need Help? Call Us+977 9851144521