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

  • Explore the remote and untouched beauty of Makalu-Barun National Park
  • Reach the stunning Makalu Base Camp (4,870m) with views of Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse
  • Cross thrilling high passes like Shipton La (4,216m) and Keke La (4,152m)
  • Discover culturally rich villages of Sherpa, Rai, and Limbu people
  • Walk through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and deep river valleys
  • Encounter rare wildlife like red pandas, musk deer, and Himalayan thars
  • A true off-the-beaten-path trek perfect for experienced trekkers looking for adventure

Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the best and most remote hiking trips in Nepal. It’s perfect for people who want to get away from the crowds on the Everest and Annapurna trails. Makalu-Barun National Park is home to pristine landscapes, rare Himalayan wildlife, and traditional mountain cultures. This 23-day trip takes you deep into the park. Starting with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar and a drive to Num, the trek gradually ascends through lush forest trails and traditional villages like Seduwa and Tashi Gaon before climbing over high passes such as Shipton La and Keke La. Reaching Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the world’s fifth highest mountain, Mt. Makalu (8,481m), along with views of Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, and the Barun Glacier.

Unlike more popular treks, the Makalu Base Camp Trek gives you a real taste of the wilderness, with fewer hikers and quieter tracks. Nature is very diverse, with everything from subtropical forests to alpine landscapes. This walk is best for people who have done it before and are in good physical shape. But you’ll always feel comfortable, supported, and inspired with our professional guides, warm teahouses, and well-thought-out plans.

Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. In the evening, we’ll hold a short briefing session about the trek and share tips about gear, altitude, and safety.

Hotel

3-star hotel in Kathmandu | Dinner: Welcome Nepali meal

Today is for rest and preparation. We’ll explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, and the iconic Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). You’ll also meet your trek leader and finalize permits, insurance documents, and equipment checks

Hotel

Hotel in Kathmandu | Meals: Breakfast

After a scenic 50-minute flight to Tumlingtar, we continue by jeep to Num village. The road winds through the Arun River valley with terraced fields, thick forests, and distant hills.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

We descend steeply through jungles to cross the Arun River via a suspension bridge, then hike up to Seduwa—entering Makalu-Barun National Park. A permit checkpoint is located here.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

A gentler day of walking through bamboo groves, cardamom fields, and remote villages. Tashi Gaon is the last permanent settlement before the high alpine section begins.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

Today is tough as we gain altitude, climbing through cloud forests and past moss-covered rocks. No villages en route—this is pure wilderness. The ridge-top of Khongma Danda offers magnificent views.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

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

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

A scenic but demanding day. We ascend Shipton La (4,216m) and Keke La (4,152m) through alpine terrain dotted with chortens and prayer flags. Views of Makalu, Chamlang, and the Barun Valley unfold.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

We descend steeply into a dense rhododendron forest, cross small wooden bridges, and follow the Barun River upstream until reaching yak pastureland at Yangri Kharka.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

A gradual uphill walk through juniper trees and grazing areas. The higher we go, the more the landscape turns barren and rugged. Langmale offers incredible mountain views.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

A dream day! The trail follows a glacial moraine to reach Makalu Base Camp. Enjoy jaw-dropping views of Makalu’s south face, Everest, and the surrounding snowy peaks.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

Spend a day acclimatizing and exploring the glacier-fed lakes and panoramic viewpoints. You can hike to a ridge (5,000m+) for even better vistas.

Hotel

Teahouse | Meals: B, L, D

We begin our descent, retracing our steps down the valley, enjoying the views from a different perspective.

A steady climb back through alpine meadows and deep forests. Birdsong and pine scents fill the air.

Another pass day! Re-cross Shipton La and descend gently into Khongma Danda for the night.

A long downhill day through lush forest trails back to the friendly village of Tashi Gaon.

We retrace our steps through the lower hills, enjoying final glimpses of the Barun River valley.

Descend to the river, cross the bridge, and climb up to Num. Celebrate your trek with a warm tea and great memories.

Bumpy but scenic jeep ride back to Tumlingtar. Take it easy and enjoy the lowland vibes.

Hotel

Local lodge | Meals: B, L, D

Morning flight to Kathmandu. After checking into the hotel, enjoy a relaxing afternoon or shop for souvenirs.

Hotel

Hotel | Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

EThis is a contingency day in case of flight delays from Tumlingtar. If unused, you can join an optional tour.

Hotel

Hotel | Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy your final full day in Nepal. Explore hidden alleys, enjoy street food, or just relax at your hotel.

Hotel

Hotel | Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Hotel

Breakfast

Cost Details

Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Domestic flight (Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu)
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Three nights in a hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included
  • All teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Experienced, English-speaking licensed guide and porter
  • Makalu Barun National Park permit and TIMS
  • First aid kit, map, duffel bag
  • All government and local taxes

Excluded

  • nternational airfare and Nepal visa fees
  • Meals in Kathmandu (lunch & dinner)
  • Personal trekking gear, sleeping bag, and equipment
  • Travel insurance (must cover high altitude)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Extra night stays due to flight delays or other reasons

Useful Information

  • Best Time to Trek
    Spring (March–May): Ideal for blooming rhododendrons and clear skies. Perfect trail conditions.
    Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, best for mountain photography. Less rain and great views.
    Winter & Monsoon: Not recommended due to heavy snowfall and slippery trails.
  • Trek Difficulty
    Strenuous: The Makalu Base Camp Trek is remote, long, and includes high-altitude passes. Suitable for experienced trekkers.
    Daily Walking: 5–8 hours per day
    Highest Point: Makalu Base Camp (4,870m)
  • Accommodation
    Kathmandu: 3-star hotel with modern amenities
    Trek: Basic teahouses with twin-sharing rooms and shared toilets. Some have limited hot showers.
    Electricity: Solar power is available in most teahouses. Charging may cost extra.
  • Meals
    Freshly cooked meals are available on the trail: Dal bhat, noodles, soups, pancakes, potatoes, and tea.
    We provide three meals per day during the trek. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
  • Communication
    Mobile coverage is very limited beyond Tashi Gaon.
    Some teahouses offer paid satellite Wi-Fi in lower villages.
    Our guide carries a satellite phone for emergencies.
  • Health & Safety
    Two acclimatization days included to reduce AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) risk.
    Guides are first-aid trained and carry a full medical kit.
    You must carry personal travel insurance covering evacuation.
  • What to Pack
    Essentials: Down jacket, sleeping bag (–15°C), trekking boots, waterproof gear, warm layers
    Other: Sunscreen, water purification tablets, snacks, gloves, headlamp, power bank
    Trek gear can be rented in Kathmandu if needed.

Official Makalu base camp trek Map

FAQs

This hike is hard because it's long, at a high elevation, and in a remote area. For experienced walkers who are in good shape, it's best.

You need both a TIMS card and a permit to enter Makalu-Barun National Park. We will get you all the permits you need.

At higher elevations, network service is weak and unreliable. Some teahouses in lower towns have Wi-Fi that you can pay for.

This trek is not recommended for beginners. We suggest doing an easier trek like Langtang or Ghorepani first.

The risk is moderate. We follow a well-paced itinerary with acclimatization days and trained guides to help you stay safe.