Makalu Base Camp trek

Duration

19 days

group size

2-10

altitude

4870m

trip start

Kathmandu

Best season

Autumn, Spring

difficulty

hard

Trekking Nepal Pvt.Ltd.

Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the most beautiful wild treks in Nepal. This remote adventure takes you far from the busy trekking trails into the heart of the eastern Himalayas. With fewer tourists, peaceful nature, and authentic mountain culture, it is a perfect trek for travelers looking for a true Himalayan experience.

The trail passes through traditional Sherpa villages, deep forests, alpine landscapes, and the magnificent Arun Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in Nepal. In spring, especially from late April to early May, the hills are covered with colorful rhododendron flowers, creating an unforgettable scenery.

This trek offers breathtaking views of three legendary Himalayan giants: Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. From Makalu Base Camp, you can admire an extraordinary close-up view of Mount Makalu, from its base to its summit, rising proudly at 8,485 meters.

One of the most special highlights of the trek is Makalu Patthar, a spectacular viewpoint offering a rare and amazing view of the Tibet side of Everest. This is one of the only places in Nepal where you can enjoy such a unique perspective of the world’s highest mountain, surrounded by glaciers, ice valleys, and endless Himalayan peaks.

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a perfect combination of adventure, untouched nature, rich local culture, and spectacular mountain scenery. It is truly one of Nepal’s hidden Himalayan treasures.

Trek Highlights – Makalu Base Camp Trek

One of the most remote, wild, and untouched trekking routes in Nepal
A peaceful trail far from mass tourism, perfect for true nature lovers
Authentic Sherpa, Rai, and mountain villages with rich Himalayan culture
Stunning panoramic views of three giant peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Mount Makalu
Rare and unique viewpoint from Makalu Patthar, offering a glimpse toward the Tibet side of the Everest region
Incredible close-up experience of Mount Makalu, rising from its base at around 4,870 m up to its summit at 8,485 m – one of the closest views of a 8,000 m peak in Nepal
Beautiful scenery of the Arun Valley, one of the most scenic and diverse valleys in the Himalayas
Spectacular rhododendron forests in spring, painting the hills in red, pink, and white
Rich biodiversity inside the protected Makalu Barun National Park, home to rare flora and fauna
A perfect combination of adventure, wilderness, culture, and unforgettable Himalayan landscapes
Ideal trek for travelers seeking a quiet, authentic, and powerful Himalayan experience

detailed itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, where you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax after your journey or explore the lively streets of Kathmandu.

Highlights: Arrival in Nepal, transfer to hotel, free time to rest
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation (1,350 m)

Enjoy a guided cultural tour of Kathmandu Valley. Visit the sacred Boudhanath Stupa and the famous Pashupatinath Temple, two of Nepal's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the afternoon, meet your guide and prepare for the trek.

Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Buddhist and Hindu culture, trek briefing
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 3: Kathmandu ✈️ Tumlingtar – Num – Seduwa (1,560 m)

Take a scenic flight to Tumlingtar with magnificent views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, drive through beautiful hills, terraced fields, and traditional villages to Num, then continue to Seduwa, the gateway to the Makalu region.

Flight Time: 35 minutes
Drive Time: 5–6 hrs
Highlights: Himalayan flight, rural Nepal, traditional villages, Arun Valley
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 4: –Seduwa (1,560 m) – Tashigaon – Danda Kharka (2,850 m)

The trail climbs gradually through cultivated terraces and charming villages to Tashigaon, the last permanent settlement before the high mountains. After lunch, continue with a steeper ascent through rhododendron and oak forests to Danda Kharka.

Walking Time: 6–7 hrs
Distance: 12 km
Elevation Gain: +1,300 m
Elevation Loss: -100 m
Highlights: Tashigaon village, rhododendron forests, mountain scenery
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 5: Danda Kharka (2,850 m) – Khongma (3,470 m)

A short but rewarding trek through alpine terrain and rhododendron-covered slopes. As you gain altitude, spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks begin to unfold. Khongma offers stunning panoramic scenery and is an excellent place for acclimatization.

Walking Time: 3–4 hrs
Distance: 3 km
Elevation Gain: +620 m
Elevation Loss: Minimal
Highlights: Panoramic Himalayan views, alpine landscapes, peaceful mountain setting
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 6: Khongma (3,470 m) – Shipton La Pass (4,200 m) – Dobato (3,800 m)

One of the most scenic days of the trek. Cross several high passes, including Shipton La Pass, while enjoying magnificent views of Makalu, Chamlang, and surrounding peaks. Pass beautiful alpine lakes before descending through rhododendron forests to Dobato.

Walking Time: 6–7 hrs
Distance: 8 km
Elevation Gain: +900 m
Elevation Loss: -650 m
Highest Point: Shipton La Pass (4,200 m)
Highlights: High mountain passes, alpine lakes, Makalu and Chamlang views
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 7: – Dobato (3,800 m) – Yangle Kharka (3,610 m)

Descend through dense rhododendron and fir forests to the Barun River before following the spectacular Barun Valley. Waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and pristine wilderness create an unforgettable trekking experience.

Walking Time: 6 hrs
Distance: 9 km
Elevation Gain: +480 m
Elevation Loss: -700 m
Highlights: Barun Valley, waterfalls, untouched nature, forest trails
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 8: Yangle Kharka (3,610 m) – Langmale (4,410 m)

Follow the upper Barun Valley through wide alpine meadows and glacial terrain. The valley opens dramatically, revealing stunning views of surrounding peaks. A final gradual climb brings you to Langmale.

Walking Time: 4–5 hrs
Distance: 8 km
Elevation Gain: +800 m
Elevation Loss: -20 m
Highlights: Alpine landscapes, glaciers, Sherson Peak views, high mountain scenery
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 9: Langmale (4,410 m) – Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

One of the highlights of the trek. Walk through a breathtaking glacial valley with spectacular views of Makalu, glaciers, rivers, and surrounding mountains. The scenery becomes more impressive with every step as you approach Makalu Base Camp.

Walking Time: 4–5 hrs
Distance: 9.5 km
Elevation Gain: +550 m
Elevation Loss: -140 m
Highlights: Makalu Glacier, Barun Valley, panoramic mountain views, arrival at base camp
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 10: Exploration Day to Makalu Patthar (5700 m)

Start early in the morning and climb to Makalu Patthar, the finest viewpoint of the trek. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Baruntse, Chamlang, and countless Himalayan peaks stretching across the horizon.

Walking Time: 6–7 hrs
Distance: 5.6 km (round trip)
Elevation Gain: +900 m
Elevation Loss: -900 m
Highest Point: 5,670 m
Highlights: Makalu close-up views, Everest panorama, glaciers, spectacular sunrise views
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 11: Extra Day at Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

An additional day reserved for acclimatization, exploration, photography, or in case of unfavorable weather conditions. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the base camp and explore the surrounding glacial landscape.

Highlights: Acclimatization, photography, glacier exploration, Himalayan panorama
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 12: Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m) – Langmale – Yangle Kharka (3,610 m)

Begin the return journey by descending through the magnificent Barun Valley. Pass Langmale and continue to Yangle Kharka, enjoying a different perspective of the glaciers and towering peaks that accompanied you on the ascent.

Walking Time: 7–8 hrs
Distance: 17 km
Elevation Gain: +100 m
Elevation Loss: -1,260 m
Highlights: Glacial valleys, alpine landscapes, magnificent mountain scenery
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 13: Yangle Kharka (3,610 m) – Dobato (3,800 m)

Retrace your steps along the Barun River before climbing gradually through beautiful forests toward Dobato. Enjoy peaceful surroundings and excellent mountain views along the way.

Walking Time: 6 hrs
Distance: 9 km
Elevation Gain: +700 m
Elevation Loss: -500 m
Highlights: Barun Valley, waterfalls, forest trails, mountain views
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 14: Dobato (3,800 m) – Khongma (3,470 m)

Cross the high passes once again, enjoying spectacular views of Makalu and Chamlang. The alpine lakes and dramatic ridgelines make this another memorable day in the high Himalayas.

Walking Time: 6–7 hrs
Distance: 8 km
Elevation Gain: +650 m
Elevation Loss: -980 m
Highest Point: Shipton La Pass (4,200 m)
Highlights: High passes, alpine lakes, panoramic Himalayan views
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 15: Khongma (3,470 m) – Danda Kharka – Tashigaon (2,060 m)

Descend through beautiful rhododendron forests and alpine meadows before reaching the welcoming village of Tashigaon. Enjoy the warmer temperatures and greener landscapes as you lose altitude.

Walking Time: 5–6 hrs
Distance: 9 km
Elevation Gain: +100 m
Elevation Loss: -1,500 m
Highlights: Forests, mountain views, traditional village life
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 16: Tashigaon (2,060 m) – Seduwa (1,560 m)

A pleasant descent through cultivated fields, forests, and traditional villages. Experience the rich culture and hospitality of the local communities.

Walking Time: 4–5 hrs
Distance: 7 km
Elevation Gain: +100 m
Elevation Loss: -600 m
Highlights: Local culture, terraced farms, village landscapes
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 17: Seduwa (1,560 m) – Khandbari (1,040 m)

After breakfast, leave the Makalu region behind and enjoy a scenic drive from Seduwa to Khandbari through beautiful hills, terraced fields, and traditional villages. This comfortable journey allows you to relax and reflect on the incredible adventure to Makalu Base Camp.

In the afternoon, you will discover the real local life of Khandbari: a lively mountain town where you can explore the local market, observe daily Nepali lifestyle, and experience traditional culture. It is a great opportunity to see how people live in this remote region, taste local food, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the community after your trek.

Driving Time: 5–6 hrs
Distance: Approx. 45 km
Elevation Loss: -520 m
Highlights: Scenic mountain roads, traditional villages, terraced landscapes, Khandbari local market, daily Nepali life, culture & local food experience
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 18: Khandbari – Tumlingtar ✈️ Kathmandu (1,350 m)

A short drive to Tumlingtar Airport followed by a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy one final view of the Himalayas before returning to Nepal's vibrant capital city.

Drive Time: 45 min – 1 hr
Flight Time: 35 minutes
Highlights: Himalayan flight, mountain views, free time in Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel

inclusion

Airport pick-up and drop-off service in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport)
3 nights’ hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis
All necessary ground transportation during the entire trip
Round-trip domestic flight: Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu
Private jeep transfer: Tumlingtar – Seduw – Tumlingtar
Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu Valley with a professional guide
All meals during the trekking period (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Accommodation in local tea houses/lodges throughout the trek
Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and all required local permits
Experienced, licensed trekking guide
One porter for every two trekkers (maximum carrying weight: 23 kg per porter)
Full insurance, salary, meals, accommodation, and equipment for all trekking staff
All applicable government taxes and official service charges

Exclusion

Drinks during the trek and in Kathmandu (except up to 3 cups of tea or coffee per day); this includes bottled water, soft drinks, juices, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages
Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner)
Extra nights in Kathmandu beyond the included 3 nights hotel accommodation
Entrance fees for monuments and cultural sites visited in Kathmandu, including transportation for sightseeing activities
Nepal entry visa fees and personal travel insurance (including medical, evacuation, and trip cancellation coverage)
Tips for guides, porters, drivers, and other trekking staff (optional but highly appreciated)
Personal expenses during the trek such as snacks, Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging devices, laundry, and souvenirs
Any services, activities, or items not specifically mentioned in the “What is Included” section