Makalu Base Camp Trek
About this trip
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most thrilling and uncrowded hiking routes. In this trek, you will cross Shipton La Pass (4,216 meters) to reach the base of Mt. Makalu at 8,485 meters. Mt. Makalu is the fifth-highest mountain in the world. The steep climb is challenging and tests the endurance of even experienced trekkers. In return, you will be rewarded by breathtaking views of iconic mountains, including Mount Makali, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Chamling, and other peaks. This trek passes through the Makalu Barun National Park area, which is a biodiversity hotspot and home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna, including rare species like snow leopards, red pandas, and birds like the Himalayan griffin.
The park’s pristine forests, deep gorges, and towering cliffs create a sense of awe and wonder, as if stepping into a world untouched by time. One of the highlights of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is the ascent to Shipton La Pass (4,216 meters), a challenging section that tests the endurance of even experienced trekkers. This trek is not just about challenging passes and terrain but also about the diversity of nature and culture one experiences. Standing in the base camp surrounded by the Himalayan giants gives a deep sense of humility, solitude, and connection to nature.
Makalu Base Camp Trek begins at Chichila, as you take a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to Chichila. From Chichila, the trail ascends through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, picturesque villages inhibited by rai and sherpa communities. As you climb higher, the lush and green valleys give their way into alpine meadows and further to high-altitude rugged terrains. The trekking trail passes through Makalu Barun National Park, where pristine forests, deep gorges, and towering cliffs create a sense of awe and wonder, as if stepping into a world untouched by time. You will climb Shipton La Pass (4,216 meters), which continues to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 meters). At Base Camp, surrounded by a panoramic view of towering peaks around the camp, vast glaciers and remoteness showcase the extraordinary beauty of the Himalaya.
Makalu Base Camp Trek is ideal for those who seek to push their limit and are comfortable with basic accommodations, like off-the-beaten-path adventure and solitude and connection with the natural environment.
Major Highlights of Makalu Base Camp Trek
- Mount Makalu Views: Enjoy stunning close-up views of Mount Makalu, one of the highest peaks in the world.
- Makalu-Barun National Park: Trek through a region with incredible biodiversity, home to rare flora and fauna.
- Remote and Unspoiled Trails: Experience a less-traveled route that offers solitude and pristine natural beauty.
- Cultural Encounters: Pass through traditional Sherpa and Rai villages, learning about their unique cultures.
- High-altitude Adventure: Reach the Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 meters, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers.
- Lush Arun Valley: Begin your journey in the tropical Arun Valley, with its vibrant greenery and terraced fields.
Itinerary
Food/Meals: Welcome Dinner
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Prepare for the trek with a briefing from Trip Pokhara's guide. Overnight in Kathmandu at Hotel
Inclusions & exclusions
Included
- All domestic flights (Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu)
- Ground transportation (Tumlingtar-Chichila-Tumlingtar)
- Accommodation in Kathmandu and during the trek
- All meals during the trek
- Necessary permits (Makalu-Barun National Park Permit, TIMS)
- Professional guide and porter services
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- Comprehensive medical kit
Not included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Personal trekking equipment
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, etc.)
- Any additional costs due to unforeseen events
Important information
The best time to undertake the Makalu Base Camp Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. The monsoon season (June to August) is marked by heavy rainfall, which can make the trails slippery and prone to landslides, while winter (December to February) is extremely cold, with deep snow at higher elevations making the trek challenging.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is classified as a strenuous trek, requiring a high level of physical fitness and some experience with high-altitude trekking. The trek involves long days of walking, often 6-8 hours, on rugged and varied terrain. The altitude is also a significant factor, with the highest point being 4,870 meters at Makalu Base Camp. Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
- Starting Point: Tumlingtar
- Ending Point: Tumlingtar
- Total Distance: Approximately 160 kilometers
- Maximum Altitude: 4,870 meters (Makalu Base Camp)
- Total Duration: 20 to 24 days
- Major Stops: Tumlingtar, Chichila, Num, Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma, Dobate, Yangle Kharka, Makalu Base Camp
To trek to Makalu Base Camp, you will need the following permits:
- Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit: Costs approximately USD 30 per person.
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: Costs around USD 20 per person.
No restricted area permits are required for this trek, making it more accessible in terms of documentation.
- Physical Training: Engage in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and long hikes with a backpack to build endurance.
- Altitude Acclimatization: Plan for acclimatization days during the trek and consider high-altitude hikes before the trek.
- Trekking Gear: Invest in high-quality trekking boots, a warm down jacket, a sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures, and other essential gear.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
- Warm sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C)
- Layered clothing (base layer, mid-layer, down jacket)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking boots with good grip
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunglasses and sun protection
- Water purification tablets
- Personal first aid kit
- Snacks (energy bars, dried fruit)
- Lightweight backpack
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items
FAQs
The best time is pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (September-November) for stable weather and clear skies.
This trek is strenuous, requiring good physical fitness and some experience with high-altitude trekking.
While not mandatory, hiring a guide is highly recommended due to the remote and challenging nature of the trek.
You will need the Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit and a TIMS card.
The trek typically takes 20 days, depending on the route and pace.
The highest point is Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 meters.
Yes, the Makalu-Barun National Park is home to rare species like the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan tahr.
Accommodation is mostly in basic teahouses and campsites.
Pack warm, layered clothing, a sturdy sleeping bag, trekking poles, and essential personal items.
Yes, ensure your insurance covers trekking at high altitudes and includes emergency evacuation.
20 days
Makalu Region Trekking
Moderate / Adventure
