Trip Facts

Duration

23 Days

Trip Grade

Expert

Country

Nepal

Maximum Altitude

5,700 m

Group Size

2–12

Starts

Tumlingtar

Ends

Tumlingtar

Activities

Trekking

Best Time

Mar–May, Sep–Nov

Highlights

  • Stunning Mountain Views: Get panoramic views of Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, Barun Glacier, Chamlang, and other surrounding peaks.
  • Remote & Pristine Region: Explore untouched regions with minimal tourist activity, offering a sense of seclusion and serenity.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Trek through lush forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, moraines, and glaciers, showcasing the varied beauty of the Himalayas.
  • Cultural Experience: Interact with local Sherpa, Rai, and other ethnic communities, experiencing their unique lifestyle, traditions, and hospitality.
  • Wildlife & Flora: Spot rare wildlife like snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan monals, and a variety of alpine flora, including rhododendrons and edelweiss.
  • Challenging Passes: Cross high-altitude passes such as Shipton La (4,700 m) and Kongma La (5,150 m), offering spectacular views at every turn.
  • Remote Trails: Enjoy a less-crowded trekking experience with fewer people compared to popular trails like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.
  • Barun Valley: Explore the remote Barun Valley, known for its breathtaking beauty and glacier formations, providing an unmatched Himalayan experience.
  • Traditional Villages: Visit traditional villages like Yangle Kharka, Tashi Gaon, and others, offering a glimpse into Nepalese rural life.
  • High Altitude Adventure: Experience trekking in high altitudes with gradual acclimatization at different camps along the trail, ensuring safety and comfort.

Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes you to the base of Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world at 8,485 meters. This trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks, while exploring the pristine and remote regions of eastern Nepal. The trail passes through diverse landscapes, ranging from lush forests and terraced fields to rugged terrains and glaciers, offering an authentic Himalayan experience.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to a hotel in Kathmandu for a comfortable stay.

Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

A long drive from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (950 m) and then to Num (1,530 m), taking around 8 hours. This drive offers scenic views of rural Nepal.

A moderate trek to Seduwa (1,493 m) through terraced fields and lush forests.

Ascend through beautiful landscapes to Tashi Gaon (2,200 m), a culturally rich Sherpa village.

Continuing the trek, reach Kongma Danda (3,500 m) with views of the surrounding mountains.

Cross Tutu-La (4,230 m) and descend to Dobato (3,700 m), a remote area offering panoramic mountain views.

Trek through forests and cross more challenging terrains to Yangle Kharka (3,620 m).

Proceed towards Langmale Kharka (4,400 m) for more stunning views and colder climates.

The highlight of the trek, reaching Makalu Base Camp (5,250 m), offers breathtaking views of Mount Makalu and surrounding peaks.

Spend a day acclimatizing and exploring the base camp area for amazing photo opportunities and exploration.

Descend back to Yangle Kharka (3,620 m) for a more relaxed day after reaching the base camp.

Continue descending through scenic trails to Dobato (3,700 m).

Another trek down to Kongma Danda (3,500 m), passing through beautiful landscapes and forests.

Continuing the descent to Seduwa School (1,493 m), following the same route as the ascent.

Finish the trekking portion and drive back to Tumlingtar (1,530 m), approximately 4 hours of travel.

Morning flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu (approximately 1 hour).

A day for relaxation, shopping, or sightseeing in Kathmandu.

Explore the historical towns of Bhaktapur and Patan, both rich in cultural heritage and unique architectural beauty.

Drive or fly to Pokhara (a picturesque city) and transfer to a hotel for leisure activities.

Enjoy boating at Phewa Lake, visit the caves, waterfalls, and relax with stunning views of the Annapurna range.

Return to Kathmandu via flight or a scenic drive through hills and mountains.

Transfer to the airport for your final departure to your home country.

Official Makalu base camp trek Map