Shuklapantha National Park
6 Day(s)
Makalu Base Camp Trek
22 Day(s)
Overview The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that takes you to the pristine and remote region of Makalu-Barun National Park in eastern Nepal. This trek also offers a unique opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of the Himalayas and witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and traditional local cultures. The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a thrilling drive to the village of Num. From there, the trek also gradually ascends through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and terraced farmlands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural grandeur…
Overview
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that takes you to the pristine and remote region of Makalu-Barun National Park in eastern Nepal. This trek also offers a unique opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of the Himalayas and witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and traditional local cultures.
The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a thrilling drive to the village of Num. From there, the trek also gradually ascends through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and terraced farmlands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural grandeur of the region. As you venture higher, the trail unfolds spectacular vistas of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world.
The trekking route traverses through traditional Sherpa villages like Seduwa, Tashi Gaon, and Khongma, where you can experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Along the way, you’ll also pass suspension bridges, glacial rivers, and cascading waterfalls, adding to the charm of the journey. The diverse wildlife of Makalu-Barun National Park will captivate you, with chances to spot endangered species like the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and elusive snow leopard.
As you approach Makalu Base Camp, located at an elevation of approximately 4,870 meters (15,978 feet), you’ll also be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga. The sight of the massive Barun Glacier and the surrounding Himalayan wilderness will leave you humbled and inspired.
The descent follows a slightly different trail, offering new perspectives and allowing you to retrace your steps while cherishing the memories of the journey. The trek concludes with a drive back to Tumlingtar and a flight to Kathmandu.
Conclusion and Summary
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging endeavor, requiring good physical fitness and previous trekking experience. However, the rewards are immeasurable, as you embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of the most remote and captivating regions of Nepal. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, immerse yourself in local cultures, and create lifelong memories in the lap of the Himalayas.
Trip Highlights
- View rhododendron forests, granite cliffs,hanging glaciers, and waterfalls, along with the aspects of the Himalayan landscapes.
- Pass river gorges, sheer cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, high-altitude lakes and Sherpa and Rai villages.
- Visit Makalu Barun National Park at lower reaches as well as snow-capped mountains higher up.
- View natural ecosystems and wildlife, which includes red pandas, snow leopards and black bears .
Itinerary
Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Everest Expeditions Nepal 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 Everest Expeditions Nepal. 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
What's Included
1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. Meal on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) basis during the trek
5. 3 Nights Accommodation in the 3/4/5 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast) & Other Destination Based on Trekking Area.
6. All accommodation during the trek.
7. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
8. Transportation to and from trail head.
9. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
10. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Insurance, and equipment for the staffs.
11. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
12. Trekking staffs wages etc.
13. 1 hr. trekker massage after your trek.
14. Welcome and Fare well dinner in a Nepali Cultural Dance restaurant in Kathmandu.
15. Trekking Duffle Bag
16. Trekking Staff Insurance of $10,000 Per Person.
17. Trekking Map, T-shirt, and Trekking certificate.
18. Exclusive of Medical Kit Bag
19. All Government and local Taxes
20. International Flight ticket re-confirmation.
21. Meals will be Start when your Trek starts.
What's Excluded
1. International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu and Pokhara.
10. Domestic Ticket Etc.
11. Extra Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Trip Information
Makalu Base Camp Trek is an adventurous journey that takes you to the foot of Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world, located in the eastern region of Nepal. The trek offers an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich biodiversity of the region.
Here is some information about the Makalu Base Camp Trek:
Duration: The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a 22-day trekking journey, which includes 18 days of trekking and 4 days for transportation and acclimatization.
Best Time to Trek: The best time to trek to Makalu Base Camp is during the autumn season (September to November) and spring season (March to May) when the weather is clear, and the views are spectacular.
Difficulty Level: The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and previous trekking experience. The trek involves crossing high mountain passes, steep ascents, and descents, and trekking through remote and rugged terrain.
Altitude: The maximum altitude you will reach during the trek is 5,800 meters at the Makalu Base Camp. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so it is important to take proper precautions and acclimatize properly.
Permits: To trek in the Makalu Barun National Park, you will need to obtain two permits: a Makalu Barun National Park Permit and a Sagarmatha National Park Permit.
Accommodation: During the trek, you will stay in teahouses and lodges that provide basic amenities such as a bed, blankets, and food. However, the facilities may be limited in remote areas.
Highlights: The highlights of the Makalu Base Camp Trek include panoramic views of the Himalayas, crossing high mountain passes, exploring the beautiful Barun Valley, experiencing the rich cultural diversity of the region, and encountering rare wildlife and vegetation.
Overall, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is an unforgettable experience for trekkers who are looking for a challenging and rewarding adventure in the Himalayas.
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