Makalu Base Camp TrekMakalu Base Camp TrekMakalu Base Camp TrekMakalu Base Camp TrekMakalu Base Camp TrekMakalu Base Camp TrekMakalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of our favourite treks and we’d be delighted to help you explore this impressive region in Nepal.

Let Incredible Himalayan Sherpa Adventure take you to the remote Makalu area on a trek through regions far-off the beaten trek. Enjoy some true Himalayan wilderness and unparalleled views of Makalu.

At 8,485m, Makalu is the 5th highest mountain in the world and its striking shape can be spotted from far away. In the early days of Himalayan exploration, it was frequently confused with Everest due to a very high prominence. But since then, it has played an important part in mountaineering history itself. While only 20km away from Everest, the region feels completely different. Wild, remote and far less busy. You’ll have to dispense with the amenities and infrastructure offered in the Everest region but in return you’ll receive a true Himalayan adventure. The ideal trip to get some distance from everything ‘usual’.

At Incredible Himalayan Sherpa Adventure we pride ourselves being very experienced in successfully and safely executing even these remote trips that require a more sophisticated logistical arrangement. The physical aspects of this trip can be quite demanding, particularly because of the lack of facilities. This trip is therefore only advisable for travelers with good physical fitness. But don’t let that deter you. Walking the remote trails and standing at Makalu base camp at high altitude without the hustle-bustle that you can sometimes encounter at Everest base camp make it more than worthwhile. 

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Highlights:

  • Admire the stunning shape of Makalu, one of the highest peaks in the world
  • Enjoy the remote Himalayas and unspoiled nature
  • Embark on your own private adventure

Itinerary

01

Day 01

Scenic flight to Tumlingtar (520m/1706.04 ft.) and drive to Num (1560m/5118.11 ft.), 30min fly + 3-4hr walk

We fly to Tumlingtar. From here our begin with ascend a long ridge running north from the edge of the sprawling town around the airstrip to the Newari and Rai village of the Khadbari (1040m). We continue along the ridge through picturesque villages to Mane Bhanjang (1100m). The journey offer marvellous views of Makalu. We will passes pretty villages Gongane and Chichira, Kuwapani etc. some ups, downs passes journey bring us to Num.
Overnight at teahouse

02

Day 02

Trek to Tashigoan (2100m/6889.764 ft.), 5-6hr walk

Num is set on a promontory above the Arun Kosi, giving us good views over the valley towards Seduwa. It will soon become clear that we have a long descent, followed by an equally long climb. On a clear day, we will see as far as the peaks flanking the Shipton La. Eventually, after several hours, we’ll reach Seduwa (Murmidanda; 1540m), as we climb gently northwards through the rice terrace to the village of Manigaon and makes a gradual climb high Kasuwa Khola to a Mani wall at Chyaksadanda (1890m). It’s a gentle walk past farms, meadows and forested glades to the school at the bottom of Tashigaon
Overnight at teahouse

03

Day 03

Trek to Kongma (3560m/11679.79 ft.), 4-5 hr walk

Our trek involves a 1400m climb on a very steeps trail. Starting from Tashigaon, climb over the ridge and ascend through forests to a stream. The path levels out at the next ridge before climbing to a shepherds’ hut stop another ridge at Chipla (2520m). Here the trail becomes even steeper. Continue over rocks and tree roots to reach Unshisa, a tiny soggy meadow at 3180m. The last stage to Khongma (Kauma; 3560m) is a draining climb through forest along the ridge that separates the Isuwa Khola and Kasuwa Khola. After about 1 1?2 hours, we’ll reach at our Khongma.
Overnight at teahouse

04

Day 04

Trek to Dobato, 6-7hr walk

From Khongma, our walk commence by climbing the ridge on steep switchbacks to a stone chorten at 3840m and feast our eyes on views of Chhamlang, Peak 6 (6739m) and Peak 7 (6105m). Drop down besides the Kalo Pokhari, a still, mysterious lake at 3840m, then climb steeply up a rocky gully to Shipton La (4216m). On the far side of the pass is another small basin and a quit, eerie lake of Thulo Pokhari (Big lake), further, the path skirts the lake and climbs to the obvious dip in the hills on the far side. This is the Keke La (4150m), the last steep climb for the day. The trail dips into a Rhododendron filled forest and reached to Dobato.
Overnight at teahouse

05

Day 05

Trek to Yangle Kharka(3600m/11811.02 ft.), 5-6hr walk

Our journey continue along the gentle trail to Mumbuk, from here we drops down a scree-covered slope into the long, curving Barun Valley, which forms a natural high-way towards your destination. Walk down towards the streambed then turn west along the south side of the valley. Beyond the landslides, the valley widens and the forest gives way to rolling alpine meadows with good views of peak7. The trail cross the Barun on a wooden bridge at Yangla Kharka.
Overnight at teahouse

06

Day 06

Trek to Langmale Kharka (4400m/14435.7 ft.), 5-6hr walk

From Yangle Kharka, we climb gently to Nghe Kharka (3750m), another cluster of herders’ huts and prayer flags on the opposite side of the Barun Khola. The landscape here could be something from the Rocky Mountains and the snowline seems almost close enough to touch. From the meadow at Riphuk Kharka (3930m), climb past a waterfall and up over swampy ground to a lonely stone hut at Jhak Kharka (4210m). Another gentle climb past Mani wall will bring you to the Langmale Kharka (Yak Kharka, and overnight stay here.
Overnight at teahouse

07

Day 07

Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4870m/15977.69 ft.), 4-5hr walk

From here, our trail enters an ancient lateral moraine through which the infant Barun Khola flows. A large glacial lake fills the valley to your left and an easy-to-follow trail leads to Shersong (4630m, 21?2 hours), a large grassy area used by yak herders in the monsoon months. By following an obvious trail that climbs more moraine, we have a number of small trail (formed by yak) above the valley floor before finally descending to a small bridge and the stone huts of Makalu Base Camp, 2 hours). To the north, the massive bulk of Makalu rises almost two miles (3500m) to a pyramid summit; this is one of the most spectacular mountain viewpoints in Nepal.
Overnight at teahouse

08

Day 08

Trek return to Yangle Kharka (3600m/11811.02 ft.), 4-6hr walk

Retracing the steps down the Barun Valley to the lodges and campsite at Yangle Kharka.
Overnight at teahouse

09

Day 09

Trek return to Khongma(3560m/11679.79 ft.), 4-5 hr walk

As we continue descending through the rock fall and then climb the rocky gully of Dobato. Following trek across Shipton La and descend to Khongma.
Overnight at teahouse

10

Day 10

Trek return to Tumlingtar (520m/1706.04 ft.), 4-5hr walk

We retrace our steps. Although the path is all downhill, the unrelenting Slope places a strain on the knees and trekking poles will come in handy. We take frequent stops where we can have a relaxes.
Overnight at teahouse

11

Day 11

Scenic flight to Kathmandu (1350m/4429 ft.), 30min fly

Scenic flight to KTM.
Overnight at hotel

 

Location

 

 

Our Offer

We offer 3 packages: Basic, comfort & Full Board. Our Basic takes care of your trek, comfort include trek with your stay in Kathmandu along with all airport transfers personally while Full Board include entire meals in the mountains during the trek. Three can be flexibly adjusted to your requirements. 

Basic Offer

  • Trek with an English speaking govt licensed trekking guide
  • 1 porter (betn two clients) to carry your luggage during the trek (max 24 kg; i.e. 12kg pP)
  • Accommodation during the trek in carefully selected teahouses as per the itinerary
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and return
  • Duffel bag and trekking map
  • Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit
  • Trekkers Information Management System [TIMS] registration card
  • Necessary paper works, all government, and local taxes
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu by the host family at Typical Nepali Cultural Restaurant
  • First aid medical kit, oxymeters to check pulse, heart rate & oxygen saturation carried by guide

Comfort Offer

As Basic and

  • 2N in 3* and 1N in 4* hotel in KTM on B/B plan as per the itinerary [upgrade possible]
  • Airport pick up & drop off personally

Full Board Offer

Price: Have a kindly make an enquiry for the Full Board tour cost. Because the cost depends on the meals chosen by you.

As Comfort and

  • Full board meals in the mountains during the trek

Group Discount:

There is a further discount for larger groups. Please contacts us for details at mytrek2nepal@gmail.com


Trek Duration:

The Trek duration can be shorten or extend depending on time and fitness.

Excluded Services

  • International Airfare to and from your country
  • Nepal visa (USD 25 for 15 days and USD 40 for 30 days, two passport photographs required). For the further more information, have visit Nepal Immigration Department official website. 
  • Insurance - Following stated things must be submit while you do trips through (IHSA)
  • You must submit copy of your insurance certificate included standard policies that covers trekking activities up to 5000m
  • Your Insuarnce policy must cover accidents, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation including helicopter rescue upto 5000m and it is excluded in the trip price
  • At the time of you do Insurance you should read the policy carefully whether your requirements are included or not
  • IHSA also recommends your insurance policy covers cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects
  • Any alcoholic beverages, cold drinks and boiled water as well as snacks, deserts etc. during the trek
  • Tipping is a culture in Nepal and is expected by your staff (guides, porters, drivers)
  • Hot shower, wifi, battery charges (available at extra cost in lodges, sometimes free)
  • Unforeseen expenses not under our control such as flight cancellations or delays, weather-related issues, illness during the trek, rescue costs, etc
  • Any other costs not specifically included. Please feel free to ask if in doubt

Equipment

Equipment for trip

Have a kindly bring following stated equipment for the camping/tented trek. The equipment you can buy in Kathmandu with different quality in good price.


Luggage:

01 large duffel bag: The Luggage is for to carry all your personal gear on the trekking. Should be strong and durable. The best size would be around 30" x 14", with a full-length zipper and handles.

1 rucksack or day pack: The bag is for to accommodate a sweater, rain gear, water bottle, camera and accessories and any miscellaneous items you need to have during the day. We recommend a pack with at least 1450cu. In capacity, or smaller if you are not carrying a large amount of camera equipment.


Head and Face Gear:

1. Sunhat

2. A Bandana

3. Sunglasses

4. Warm hat

5. Sunscreen with a very high SPF factor

6. Lip balm with a high SPF factor

7. An emergency light


Hands:

1. Lightweight gloves

 

Inner Clothing:

1. T-shirts

2. Thermal underwear- Top and bottom. Synthetic is best

3. Underwear

4. 2 shorts

5. 2 Trousers- (comfortable) One thin, one thick and warm


Outer Clothing:

1. down Jacket

2. Fleece Jacket (or a windproof jacket)

3. Waterproof jacket with a hood (or a poncho)

4. Waterproof pants

5. Baggy pants

6. 2 pairs of gloves/mittens (1 thin and 1 thick)

7. 1 sweater to be worn under the fleece jacket


Footwear:

1. Light weight walking boots- (leather is recommended)

2. Spare laces

3. 2 pairs of thick woolen socks.

4. 2 pairs of thin socks to be worn under the woolen socks

5. One pair of sandals or comfortable shoes for camp


Drinking Equipment:

1. Water Bottle

Purification equipment-Boiled drinking water will be provided but further purification with iodine or purification tablets is highly recommended.


Sleeping and Carrying Equipment:

1. 30-40 liter daypack

2. Water Proof Bag-A water proof bag to cover the rucksack

3. Sleeping Bag- Please brings a bag that can resist temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius


Personal Medical Kit:

1. Bandage for sprains

2. Plasters/Band-aids

3. Iodine or water filters

4. Moleskin/Second skin - for blisters

5. Antiseptic ointment for cuts

6. Anti-bacterial throat lozenges (with antiseptic)

7. Aspirin/paracetamol - general painkiller

8. Oral rehydration salts

9. Broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxin)

10. Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic)

11. Diarrhea stopper (Imodium - optional)

12. Diamox (altitude sickness - can be bought in Kathmandu)

13. Sterile Syringe set (anti-AIDS precaution)


Extras/Luxuries:

1. Binoculars

2. Reading book

3. Trail Map/Guide book

4. Journal & Pens

5. Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble


Toiletries:

1. 1 medium sized quick drying towel

2. Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)

3. Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)

4. Deodorant

5. Nail clippers

6. Face and body moisturize

7. Feminine hygiene products

8. Small mirror

 

Information

Additional Options:

+Additional porter:

We plan with one porter per 2 clients. If you require additional support, you can book an additional porter for the trip to lighten your load. A porter carries your bag pack for you and no more (20kg max. They don't often speak any English. They carry two backpacks that they will strap together. But you are strictly prohibited not take advantage of the porter. They are usually very proud people and will attempt to carry things that are just too heavy. Which is not good. You can leave your unnecessary stuff in Kathmandu your hotel or our office you will not need on the trek.

Have a take a small personal daypack with you. Your daypack should contain everything you need during the day but keep it as light as possible. Examples: water, some warm clothing, your camera, sunscreen, etc. Note that luggage you hand the porters might not be available to you during the day as they sometimes set their own pace.


Hotel upgrade in ktm:[€60 for 5* hotel Per night]

If you feel like a little luxury before and after your trek, you can upgrade your hotel in Kathmandu to 5* category.

Nepal Visas

You need a visa for Nepal, which can be obtained in advance or on entry. If you wish to apply before departure the current visa cost is £20 for a 15-day visa and £35 for a 30-day visa for UK passport holders. The current cost of a visa on arrival is US$25 for 15 days, US$40 for 30 days or if extending your stay $100 for 90 days. All are multiple entries. The visa on arrival fee can be paid for in cash in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Euros. You will also need a passport photo. Application forms are available in the immigration hall (or for electronic passports, there are visa registration machines which, after inserting your passport, automatically fill out a form for you). You must firstly join the queue to pay the visa fee and then go to the relevant immigration desk to obtain your 15, 30 or 90-day visa stamp. There can be long queues for visas on arrival.


Flexible Timing

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla significantly reduces the journey time compared to the trek via Jiri (which we also offer). The flight is the shortest and most popular way of gaining access to the region but the mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable and sometimes even during the best part of the season, flights are delayed or postponed for one or more days. We can also arrange for a Heli charter from Kathmandu to Lukla instead but this adds significant extra cost. We highly recommend that you take potential delays into account and allow for a week extra day in Kathmandu.


Money and Gratuity

Money and Gratuity; It is best to bring a mixture of cash and traveler’s checks in a major currency [some currencies are not convertible to NPR]. USD, GBP, CAD, EUR, and AUD are generally fine. Ensure you have also small denominations. As a guideline for baseline spending money we suggest USD 8 - 10 per meal in Kathmandu / Pokhara and USD 30 – 35 per day whilst trekking in the Annapurna region (if you drink or smoke or plan some major shopping this could be higher). You should exchange enough money into Nepalese Rupees to last the entire time of your trek BEFORE leaving Kathmandu. There are no exchange facilities in the villages along the trail but plenty of money changers in KTM.

Gratuity is, Since the 1960s when trekking in Nepal was developed, there has been a tradition for groups and independent visitors to gratude their crews at the end of a trek but gratuity are not included in the trip price. If you are happy with the performance of the trekking staff, we suggest the following as a minimum: USD 7 per day of the wages or around one day’s wage for each week on a trek. As a rule, and through tradition, the head cook should get a little more than the porters and ‘Sherpa’ and kitchen crews. The Sardar and Leader/Guide should get a little more again.


Drinking Water

Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 litres per person per day.

We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal’s trekking areas.

All tea houses will provide cold water free of charge, if requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you bring a reusable bottle with a wide opening (Nalgene or similar) with you and use a SteriPEN to treat it with. A SteriPEN is a handheld UV water purifier – small, lightweight and battery powered so easy to pack for a trek. In Nepal’s trekking regions most of the bottled water isn’t strictly ‘mineral water’ anyway but is UV treated, so it’s exactly the same technology. It’s quick to use, far more effective than purification tablets, and the water is ready immediately. It’s fine to use a SteriPEN on non-boiled water so long as it isn’t cloudy or full of sediment (which is uncommon in these regions).

SteriPENs are widely stocked on Amazon, outdoor shops and other online retailers; look for the latest models but avoid USB charging ones. Better still, a SteriPEN will pay for itself over the course of the trek and you won’t leave behind a single plastic bottle – you will end up spending the same or even less than you would on bottled water, plus you can keep it for future trips.

If you prefer not to invest in a SteriPEN, the tea houses also sell boiled water for approx. Rs150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle.

While camping boiled water is supplied for drinking.


Weather

The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600m and progressively lower the higher we go.

Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.

Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November. This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. At the highest altitudes although the days can be nice and sunny the temperatures can drop to 10ºC and much lower. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as minus 10ºC and lower at the highest altitudes.

Pre-monsoon/spring: March to May. Both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but haze will often build up in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring.

Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes. Summit day will be a very early start (usually about 2am) and will be extremely cold. Although mostly it is calm and clear on summit day the mountain does occasionally get high winds. You need to be equipped for temperatures as low as minus 25ºC plus wind chill on summit day.

Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.

FAQs

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Duration

11 days

Season

Apr-Jun & Sept-Nov

Region

Makalu

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

520m - 4870m

Walking

5hr

Accommodation

Teahouse

Trip Type

Private & Group Join

Transportation

Private Vehicle & flight

Certificate of Excellence

Based of services & review

Trek Map

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Need More help ?

Talk to our travel experts by phone, email, WhatsApp/Viber, WeChat! We love to talk travel ! We're here to help and happy to assist you with your booking and make your dream come true.

Tsering

Mr. Tsering D. Sherpa

(National Mountain Leader)
Mountaineering, Treks & Tours

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