Makalu Base Camp Trek trail through the Barun Valley below Mount MakaluMakalu Base Camp Trek trail through the Barun Valley below Mount Makalu

Makalu Base Camp Trek - 20 Days

  • Duration20 Days
  • Route Grade Exploratory Travel
  • Trip Style High Altitude Trekking
  • Starting City Kathmandu
  • Ending City Kathmandu
Price fromUS$1350US$1470
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Makalu Base Camp Trek - 20 Days map

Trip Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is not as famous as Everest or Annapurna Base Camp Trek, but it is equally beaituful and rewarding trekking destination. It is a high altitude trekking journey to the base of the fifth highest mountain in the world at 8,485m. The trekking route passes through Makalu Barun National Park and the remote Barun Valley in eastern Nepal. The journey passes through the Keke La pass 4170m and Shipton La pass 4250m before reaching to the glacial Makalu base camp surrounded by spectacular Himalayan peaks.

This trek offers a quieter experience than the popular Everest and Annapurna routes. You will spend time in simple mountain lodges and walk through changing landscapes as the altitude increases. It is a good choice for travelers seeking a remote Himalayan adventure who are ready for long walking days and high altitude conditions.

Trip Detail

Information
Detail

Trip Code

MBT503N

Starting Point / End Point

Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Accommodation

Comfortable 3 star hotel in Kathmandu, mountain lodges and teahouses along the trekking route

Max Altitude

4,870 m at Makalu Base Camp

Duration

20 Days, 19 Nights

Country

Nepal

Trip Grade

Challenging, suitable for trekkers with good fitness and prior high altitude trekking experience

Activities

Flight to Tumlingtar, crossing of Keke La and Shipton La passes, exploration of the Barun Valley, Makalu Base Camp

Season

Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May)

Region

Makalu Barun National Park, Sankhuwasabha district, eastern Nepal

Transportation

Domestic flight between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar, private drive between Tumlingtar and Num, trekking on foot through the Makalu Barun region

Meals

Breakfast in Kathmandu, full board meals during the trek, welcome dinner on Day 1, farewell dinner on Day 19

Itinerary Overview

This 20 day trek starts with arrival in Kathmandu, followed by a day for permit preparation and sightseeing. On Day 3, you fly to Tumlingtar and drive to Num, where the trekking begins. The trail climbs through Seduwa and Tashigaon to Khongma Danda, where an acclimatization day is taken before crossing Keke La and Shipton La to Dobato. From there, the route drops into the Barun Valley through Yangle Kharka and climbs again to Langmale Kharka before reaching Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m, with a rest day for exploration. The return trek retraces the same trail back through Dobato, Khongma Danda, Tashigaon, and Seduwa to Num, followed by a drive to Tumlingtar and a flight back to Kathmandu, ending with final departure on Day 20.

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu at 1,400 m

  • Day 2: Makalu Base Camp Trek permit preparation and sightseeing in Kathmandu

  • Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar at 518 m, then drive to Num at 1,560 m, about 6 to 7 hours

  • Day 4: Trek from Num to Seduwa at 1,500 m through terraced fields and local villages, about 5 to 6 hours

  • Day 5: Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon at 2,100 m, entering Makalu Barun National Park, about 5 hours

  • Day 6: Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda at 3,560 m, about 6 to 7 hours

  • Day 7: Acclimatization day at Khongma Danda, with rest and short walks

  • Day 8: Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobato at 3,860 m via Keke La and Shipton La passes, about 5 to 6 hours

  • Day 9: Trek from Dobato to Yangle Kharka at 3,570 m, descending into the Barun Valley, about 4 to 5 hours

  • Day 10: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Langmale Kharka at 4,410 m, about 5 to 6 hours

  • Day 11: Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m, about 5 to 6 hours

  • Day 12: Rest and exploration day at Makalu Base Camp, with views of the Barun Glacier

  • Day 13: Trek back to Yangle Kharka

  • Day 14: Trek back to Dobato

  • Day 15: Trek back to Khongma Danda

  • Day 16: Trek back to Tashigaon

  • Day 17: Trek back to Seduwa

  • Day 18: Trek from Seduwa to Num, then drive to Tumlingtar

  • Day 19: Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu

  • Day 20: Final departure from Kathmandu

Why You Will Love This Trek

  • Short Scenic Flight Into the Mountains: The trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar at 518 m, then a drive to Num at 1,560 m. It is a fun and easy way to reach the mountains, saving you days of travel by road.

  • Experience Life in the Mountain Villages: The trek passes through Seduwa and Tashigaon before entering the higher mountain areas. You can experience the local village life of Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa along with their traditional homes, unique culture, farmland, and the peaceful setting of eastern Nepal.

  • A Walk Through Makalu Barun National Park: Beyond Tashigaon, you enter Makalu Barun National Park, one of the most biodiverse parks in Nepal. The forest keeps changing as you climb, from warm lowland trees to high alpine slopes near the passes.

  • A Break to Catch Your Breath: At Khongma Danda, 3,560 m, you get a full day to rest and let your body adjust to the thinner air. It is a good chance to slow down, explore nearby trails, and get ready for what comes next.

  • Two Passes, One Unforgettable Day: Crossing Keke La and Shipton La between Khongma Danda and Dobato is a highlight many trekkers remember long after the trip ends. You leave the forest behind and step into wide open alpine country.

  • A Valley Surrounded by Giants: Past Dobato, the trail drops into the Barun Valley, a glacial valley boxed in by towering peaks. Walking through Yangle Kharka and on to Langmale Kharka at 4,410 m, the mountains seem to close in around you a little more with every step.

  • Face to Face With Makalu: Arriving at Makalu Base Camp, 4,870 m, you stand right below the south face of the fifth highest mountain on earth. On a clear day, you can even pick out Chamlang and the eastern edge of the Everest range in the distance.

  • Time to Explore Makalu Base Camp: Day 12 is set aside for rest and exploration at Makalu Base Camp. You can take time to enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery and recover before starting the return journey. 

  • A Peaceful Himalayan Trek: The Makalu region offers a remote trekking experience away from the busier trekking routes. The simple mountain lodges, quiet trails, and changing landscapes make the journey feel like a true Himalayan adventure. 

Altitude and Activities

The trek begins at Kathmandu at 1,400 m before flying to Tumlingtar at 518 m and driving to Num at 1,560 m. From there the trail climbs through Seduwa and Tashigaon to Khongma Danda at 3,560 m, where an acclimatization day is taken before crossing Keke La and Shipton La to Dobato at 3,860 m. The route then descends into the Barun Valley through Yangle Kharka at 3,570 m and climbs again through Langmale Kharka at 4,410 m to reach Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m, with a rest day for exploration before the same route is retraced back to Num and Tumlingtar.

Day
Location
Altitude
Activities
Travel Time

Day 1

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Arrival and leisure time

Airport transfer

Day 2

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Permit preparation and sightseeing

N/A

Day 3

Num

1,560 m

Flight to Tumlingtar, drive via the Arun valley

About 6 to 7 hours

Day 4

Seduwa

1,500 m

Trek through terraced fields and villages

About 5 to 6 hours

Day 5

Tashigaon

2,100 m

Trek into Makalu Barun National Park

About 5 hours

Day 6

Khongma Danda

3,560 m

Steep climb through forest

About 6 to 7 hours

Day 7

Khongma Danda

3,560 m

Acclimatization day, short walks

N/A

Day 8

Dobato

3,860 m

Crossing Keke La and Shipton La passes

About 5 to 6 hours

Day 9

Yangle Kharka

3,570 m

Descent into the Barun Valley

About 4 to 5 hours

Day 10

Langmale Kharka

4,410 m

Trek up the Barun Valley

About 5 to 6 hours

Day 11

Makalu Base Camp

4,870 m

Final approach to base camp

About 5 to 6 hours

Day 12

Makalu Base Camp

4,870 m

Rest and exploration, Barun Glacier

N/A

Day 13

Yangle Kharka

3,570 m

Trek back down the Barun Valley

About 4 to 5 hours

Day 14

Dobato

3,860 m

Trek back up through Langmale Kharka

About 5 to 6 hours

Day 15

Khongma Danda

3,560 m

Trek back over Shipton La and Keke La

About 5 to 6 hours

Day 16

Tashigaon

2,100 m

Descent through forest

About 6 to 7 hours

Day 17

Seduwa

1,500 m

Trek back through lower villages

About 5 hours

Day 18

Num

1,560 m

Trek to Num, drive to Tumlingtar

About 5 to 6 hours trek plus drive

Day 19

Kathmandu

1,400 m

Flight from Tumlingtar

N/A

Day 20

Departure

1,400 m

Final departure

Airport transfer

Accommodation and Meals

You will stay in a comfortable 3 star hotel in Kathmandu, and in mountain lodges or teahouses throughout the trekking portion of the journey. Full board meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on every trekking day, including the acclimatization day at Khongma Danda and the rest day at Makalu Base Camp. In Kathmandu, breakfast is provided, with a welcome dinner on arrival and a farewell dinner on your return from the trek.

Day
Location
Accommodation
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 1

Kathmandu

3 star hotel

N/A

N/A

Welcome Dinner

Day 2

Kathmandu

3 star hotel

Included

Not Included

Not Included

Day 3

Num

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 4

Seduwa

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 5

Tashigaon

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 6

Khongma Danda

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 7

Khongma Danda

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 8

Dobato

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 9

Yangle Kharka

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 10

Langmale Kharka

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 11

Makalu Base Camp

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 12

Makalu Base Camp

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 13

Yangle Kharka

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 14

Dobato

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 15

Khongma Danda

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 16

Tashigaon

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 17

Seduwa

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 18

Num

Mountain lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 19

Kathmandu

3 star hotel

Included

Not Included

Farewell Dinner

Day 20

Departure

N/A

Included

N/A

N/A

Cost Includes

Cost and Inclusions

This 20 day Makalu Base Camp Trek includes accommodation in a comfortable 3 star hotel in Kathmandu and mountain lodges or teahouses throughout the trekking route. The package also includes the domestic flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar, private ground transportation, required area permits, an experienced trekking guide, porter service, and full board meals during the trek.

Cost Includes
Cost Excludes

Private airport arrival and departure transfers

International airfare to and from Nepal

3 star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast

Nepal entry visa fee

Welcome dinner and farewell dinner

Travel insurance

Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar

Tips for guide, porter, and support staff

Private drive between Tumlingtar and Num

Personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, and phone calls

Mountain lodge or teahouse accommodation throughout the trek

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except welcome and farewell dinner

Full board meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, during the trek

 

Makalu Barun National Park entry permit

 

Sankhuwasabha area trekking permit

 

Experienced English speaking trekking guide

 

Porter service to carry your luggage

 
Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal. Once you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be waiting outside the arrival terminal with our company name and logo board. They will take you to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can check in and rest after your flight. In the evening, our guide will meet you for a briefing about the trek ahead, followed by a welcome dinner with the rest of your group.

  • Route: Tribhuvan International Airport to hotel in Kathmandu

  • Altitude: 1,400 m

  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

  • Meals: Welcome Dinner

  • Highlights: Arrival in Nepal, airport transfer, hotel check in, and trek briefing

    This day is used to prepare the permits required for the Makalu region and to check trekking gear before departure. Depending on timing, you will also have the chance to visit some of the Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO listed heritage sites such as Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square with a guide, giving you an experience of Nepali culture and history before heading into the mountains.

    • Route: Kathmandu, sightseeing and permit preparation

    • Altitude: 1,400 m

    • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

    • Meals: Breakfast

    • Highlights: Permit processing for the Makalu Barun region, sightseeing at Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, Pahupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square

      An early flight takes you from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal, a short flight that offers wide views of the green hills and river valleys below on a clear day. From Tumlingtar, a private vehicle takes you on to Num, climbing steadily along mountain roads through small towns and villages of the Sankhuwasabha district.

      • Route: Kathmandu to Tumlingtar by flight, then Tumlingtar to Num by private vehicle

      • Altitude: 518 m at Tumlingtar, 1,560 m at Num

      • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

      • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      • Highlights: Flight to Tumlingtar, drive through the Sankhuwasabha hills, arrival in Num

        The trail from Num to Seduwa descends steeply through the forest toward the Arun River. After crossing the river on a suspension bridge, the trail climbs steadily on the opposite side through terraced fields and small Rai and Limbu villages, with beautiful views across the Arun Valley. The day ends in Seduwa, a traditional hillside settlement and an important stop on the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

        • Route: Num to Seduwa via the Arun River

        • Altitude: 1,500 m

        • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

        • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        • Highlights: Descent to the Arun River, suspension bridge crossing, terraced farmland, arrival in Seduwa

          The trail from Seduwa to Tashigaon climbs through the villages of Hedangna and Hindrungma, passing terraced fields and forested hillsides before entering the Makalu Barun National Park. The route continues through Rhododendron and oak forests, with views toward the surrounding Arun Valley and green mountain slopes. After crossing several small streams and wooded sections, you reach Tashigaon, a traditional Sherpa village and the last permanent settlement before the higher Makalu region.

          • Route: Seduwa to Tashigaon, entering Makalu Barun National Park

          • Altitude: 2,100 m

          • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

          • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

          • Highlights: Entering Makalu Barun National Park, arrival at the last village on the route

            This is one of the more demanding days of the trek, with a long and steady climb through rhododendron and oak forests above Tashigaon. The trail passes through Chipla Danda and Danda Kharka, with views of the surrounding hills and Arun Valley along the way. As you gain height, the forest becomes more open, and you continue toward Khongma Danda at 3,560 m, where the landscape becomes more alpine.

            • Route: Tashigaon to Khongma Danda

            • Altitude: 3,560 m

            • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

            • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

            • Highlights: Steep forested climb, rhododendron and oak forests, Chipla Danda, Danda Kharka, Arun Valley views, and arrival at Khongma Danda

              Today is spent resting and adjusting to the altitude at Khongma Danda before crossing Keke La and Shipton La. Short walks around Khongma Danda help with acclimatization while giving you a chance to explore the surrounding rhododendron covered slopes and enjoy views of the nearby hills and valleys.

              • Route: Rest day around Khongma Danda

              • Altitude: 3,560 m

              • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

              • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

              • Highlights: Acclimatization, short walks around Khongma Danda

                This is a demanding day that crosses Keke La and Shipton La, with the trail gradually leaving the forested slopes around Khongma Danda and entering the open alpine terrain. The route passes through Tutu La and Shipton La, with views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and high ridges. Weather around the passes can change quickly, so an early start and close attention to your guide are important before descending toward Dobato.

                • Route: Khongma Danda to Dobato via Keke La and Shipton La passes

                • Altitude: 3,860 m

                • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                • Highlights: Crossing Keke La and Shipton La passes, entering the upper Barun region

                  From Dobato, the trail descends gradually toward the Barun Valley, passing through alpine forest and rocky landscapes. The route continues along the Barun River, with views of the surrounding cliffs, glaciers, and high Himalayan peaks. As you approach Yangle Kharka, the valley becomes wider and the dramatic mountain scenery gives you a first real sense of the scale of the peaks surrounding the approach to Makalu.

                  • Route: Dobato to Yangle Kharka, descending into the Barun Valley

                  • Altitude: 3,570 m

                  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                  • Highlights: Descending into the Barun Valley, first close views of the surrounding peaks

                    The trail continues up the Barun Valley along the Barun River, passing through open alpine meadows and rocky terrain as you gain altitude. Along the way, you pass Merek Kharka and Jhak Kharka, with the vegetation gradually thinning as the landscape becomes more rugged. As you reach Langmale Kharka at 4,410 m, the peaks around Makalu appear much closer and more impressive.

                    • Route: Yangle Kharka to Langmale Kharka up the Barun Valley

                    • Altitude: 4,410 m

                    • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                    • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                    • Highlights: Walking deeper into the Barun Valley, Barun River, Merek Kharka, Jhak Kharka, alpine terrain, and closer views of Makalu and surrounding peaks

                      The final approach to Makalu Base Camp follows rocky and moraine covered terrain deeper into the upper Barun Valley. The trail passes Sherson and continues toward Makalu Base Camp, with increasingly close views of Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world. As you reach Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m, the impressive south face of Makalu and surrounding peaks of the Barun region come fully into view.

                      • Route: Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp

                      • Altitude: 4,870 m

                      • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                      • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                      • Highlights: Arrival at Makalu Base Camp, close views of the south face of Makalu

                        Today is set aside to rest and explore the area around Makalu Base Camp. Depending on weather and trail conditions, you can take a short walk toward the Barun Glacier and explore the surrounding rocky terrain. The area offers impressive views of Mount Makalu, Barun Glacier, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks before you begin the return trek.

                        • Route: Exploration around Makalu Base Camp

                        • Altitude: 4,870 m

                        • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                        • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                        • Highlights: Rest and acclimatization, Barun Glacier, Mount Makalu, and surrounding Himalayan peaks

                          The return trek begins by retracing your steps from Makalu Base Camp down through the upper Barun Valley toward Yangle Kharka. The trail passes through Sherson and Langmale Kharka, following the Barun River through rocky and alpine terrain. As you descend, the landscape becomes greener and the surrounding peaks remain visible before reaching Yangle Kharka at 3,570 m. 

                          • Route: Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka, retracing the Barun Valley trail

                          • Altitude: 3,570 m

                          • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                          • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                          • Highlights: Sherson, Langmale Kharka, Barun River, descending through the Barun Valley, and views of the surrounding peaks

                            From Yangle Kharka, the trail climbs back up through the Barun Valley, retracing the route through the upper Barun region. The trail passes through Merek Kharka and continues toward Dobato, with views of the surrounding forests, rocky slopes, and high mountain peaks. After the steady climb, you reach Dobato at 3,860 m for the night.

                            • Route: Yangle Kharka to Dobato

                            • Altitude: 3,860 m

                            • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                            • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                            • Highlights: Merek Kharka, upper Barun region, alpine landscapes, mountain views, and return to Dobato

                              Today retraces the crossing of Shipton La and Keke La back to Khongma Danda. From Dobato, the trail climbs through the open alpine terrain before reaching the high passes, with views of the surrounding ridges and valleys. After crossing the passes, the route descends gradually toward Khongma Danda, where you spend the night.

                              • Route: Dobato to Khongma Danda via Shipton La and Keke La passes

                              • Altitude: 3,560 m

                              • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                              • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                              • Highlights: Shipton La, Keke La, alpine terrain, mountain views, and descent to Khongma Danda

                                From Khongma Danda, the trail descends steadily through rhododendron and oak forests toward Tashigaon. The route passes through Danda Kharka and Chipla Danda, with views of the surrounding hills and valleys along the way. As you lose altitude, the air becomes warmer and the forest becomes denser before reaching Tashigaon at 2,100 m.

                                • Route: Khongma Danda to Tashigaon

                                • Altitude: 2,100 m

                                • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                                • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                • Highlights: Danda Kharka, Chipla Danda, rhododendron and oak forests, valley views, and descent back to Tashigaon

                                  The trail continues downhill from Tashigaon through rhododendron and oak forests, passing small hillside settlements and terraced fields. The route gradually loses altitude as you retrace the trail toward Seduwa, with views across the surrounding hills and Arun Valley. After the steady descent, you arrive back in Seduwa at 1,500 m.

                                  • Route: Tashigaon to Seduwa

                                  • Altitude: 1,500 m

                                  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                                  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                  • Highlights: Rhododendron and oak forests, terraced fields, hillside villages, Arun Valley views, and return to Seduwa

                                    This is a long final trekking day, retracing the route from Seduwa down toward the Arun River and then climbing back up to Num. After reaching Num, a private vehicle takes you through the hilly roads toward Tumlingtar, passing rural villages, terraced fields, and views of the Arun Valley along the way. The combination of trekking and driving makes this a full day, so an early start is recommended.

                                    • Route: Seduwa to Num on foot, then Num to Tumlingtar by private vehicle

                                    • Altitude: 1,560 m at Num, 518 m at Tumlingtar

                                    • Accommodation: Mountain lodge

                                    • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                    • Highlights: Final trekking day, drive back to Tumlingtar

                                      A morning flight takes you from Tumlingtar Airport back to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, our representative will transfer you to your 3 star hotel, giving you the rest of the day free to rest or explore the city. In the evening, the group gathers for a farewell dinner to celebrate the completion of the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

                                      • Route: Tumlingtar to Kathmandu by flight

                                      • Altitude: 1,400 m

                                      • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

                                      • Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner

                                      • Highlights: Morning flight to Kathmandu, hotel transfer, free time in Kathmandu, and farewell dinner with the group

                                        On your final day, enjoy breakfast at the hotel before our representative takes you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your international flight. This marks the end of your 20 day Makalu Base Camp Trek, as you depart Nepal with memories of the Makalu region and the Himalayan landscapes.

                                        • Route: Hotel in Kathmandu to Tribhuvan International Airport

                                        • Altitude: 1,400 m

                                        • Meals: Breakfast

                                        • Highlights: Airport transfer and final departure from Nepal

                                          Trip Information

                                          Know Before You Book

                                          • Visa Requirements: All citizens of the world except Indian passport holders need a visa to enter Nepal, and most travellers can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Since this is a 20 day trip, we recommend applying for a 30 day tourist visa, which costs USD 50, to give yourself a comfortable buffer around your travel dates. You can apply and pay online in advance at https://nepaliport-new.immigration.gov.np/

                                          • Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your arrival date, with at least one blank page for your visa stamp.

                                          • Fitness Level: This trek reaches 4,870 m at Makalu Base Camp and spends several consecutive days above 3,500 m. Trekkers should have an excellent level of fitness and prior high altitude trekking experience.

                                          • Area Permits: This trek requires two permits. The Makalu Barun National Park entry permit costs around NPR 3,000, about USD 23, for foreign nationals. The Makalu Rural Municipality permit for the Sankhuwasabha area costs USD 20 per person per week for the first four weeks. Trekkers are strongly advised to travel with a licensed guide given the remoteness of the route and the limited facilities beyond Tashigaon.   

                                          • Flight Reliability: The flight between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar can occasionally be delayed or rescheduled due to weather in the hills. We recommend building a small buffer into your travel plans where possible.

                                          • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, high altitude evacuation, and trip delays is strongly recommended for this trek.

                                          • Currency and Payment Methods: We accept payments in major currencies such as USD, EUR, and GBP, though it is a good idea to carry some Nepali Rupees for smaller personal expenses on the trail.
                                             

                                          Accommodations, Meals, and Transportation

                                          • Typical Accommodation Used: You will stay in a comfortable 3 star hotel in Kathmandu before and after the trek. During the trek, you will stay in mountain lodges and teahouses along the route, which offer simple rooms and dining halls where meals are served.

                                          • Meals: Breakfast is included in Kathmandu, along with a welcome dinner on Day 1 and a farewell dinner on Day 19. During the trek, full board meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included at every stop from Num through the return to Num.

                                          • Guide Support: An experienced English speaking guide accompanies you throughout the trek, assisting with permits, acclimatization, and navigation, including the crossing of Keke La and Shipton La. Porters are also provided to carry your luggage.

                                          • Transportation: This package includes private airport transfers in Kathmandu, domestic flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar, and a private drive between Tumlingtar and Num. All movement between villages on the trekking portion is done on foot.
                                             

                                          Seasonal and Weather Updates

                                          • Autumn (September to November): This is a popular season for the Makalu region, with generally stable weather and clear mountain views, though nights at higher altitude around Khongma Danda and the passes are very cold.

                                          • Spring (March to May): Spring brings milder temperatures at lower elevation along with blooming rhododendron forests around Tashigaon and Khongma Danda, though weather at Keke La and Shipton La can still change quickly.
                                             

                                          Health and Safety

                                          • General Wellbeing: This trek spends 10 days above 3,500 m, from Khongma Danda on Day 6 through to the return to Khongma Danda on Day 15, reaching 4,870 m at Makalu Base Camp, the highest point of the trek. Trekkers should be aware of the signs of altitude sickness and communicate any symptoms to their guide promptly.

                                          • Healthcare Facilities: Basic health posts are available in some of the larger villages along the route, and full hospital facilities are available in Kathmandu. Your guide can assist with local arrangements if required.

                                          • Pacing: Walking at a comfortable pace and following the built in acclimatization day at Khongma Danda can help your body adjust before the higher sections of the trek.

                                          • Hydration: Drink sufficient fluids throughout the trekking days, especially at higher altitude around the passes and near base camp.

                                          • Weather Awareness: Weather can change quickly around Keke La and Shipton La. Follow the instructions of your guide at all times, particularly regarding the timing of the pass crossing.
                                             

                                          Packing Checklist

                                          • Essential Clothing: Comfortable layered clothing suitable for trekking, including a warm down jacket for cold mornings, evenings, and the pass crossing.

                                          • Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support and grip suitable for multiple days of walking on varied and high altitude terrain, including moraine near base camp.

                                          • Trail Gear: A sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket for changing weather.

                                          • Personal Items: A small daypack, reusable water bottle, personal toiletries, camera, and any personal medications you need.
                                             

                                          Important Notices

                                          • Travel Advisories: Before you travel, we recommend checking the latest travel advice issued by your home country. Our team is happy to provide local updates before your trip.

                                          • Remote Terrain: The trail beyond Tashigaon and through the Barun Valley are more remote, with fewer facilities such as shops, ATMs, and communication networks. Plan accordingly and carry sufficient cash for the trekking portion of your trip.

                                          • Responsible Travel: We encourage you to respect local customs, ask permission before photographing local families, and support the local economy of the Sankhuwasabha and Makalu Barun region during your trek.

                                          Trip Preparations

                                          • What is the highest point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

                                            The highest point is Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m, reached on Day 11.

                                          • Tumlingtar is the gateway town to the Makalu region, and flying there from Kathmandu saves several days of road travel compared to driving the whole way, allowing you to begin trekking from Num on Day 3.

                                          • The trek crosses Keke La and Shipton La between Khongma Danda and Dobato on Day 8, marking the transition from forested lower slopes into the alpine terrain of the upper Barun region.

                                          • Yes. The Barun Valley sits within Makalu Barun National Park and is followed through Yangle Kharka and Langmale Kharka on the approach to Makalu Base Camp.

                                          • Two. The first is at Khongma Danda on Day 7, before the crossing of Keke La and Shipton La. The second is at Makalu Base Camp on Day 12, with time to explore toward the Barun Glacier.

                                          • Yes. After the rest day at Makalu Base Camp, you trek back down the same trail through Langmale Kharka, Yangle Kharka, Dobato, Khongma Danda, Tashigaon, and Seduwa before reaching Num on Day 18

                                          • You need two permits for this trek, the Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and the Sankhuwasabha area trekking permit. A licensed guide is also required, since the route is remote.

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