Makalu Base Camp Trek -19 Days
Trip Key Facts
19 Days
4870 m / 15978 ft
Modurator
2-14+ (Costmizable)
Mar - May & Sep - Nov
Hotel, teahouses
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Kathmandu, Nepal / Kathmandu, Nepal
Trip Overview
The Makalu Base Camp Tre is an incredible Himalayan adventure that takes you into one of eastern Nepal's most remote and naturally beautiful regions. The journey leads through Makalu-Barun National Park, traditional mountain villages, lush forests, terraced farmland, high mountain passes, and the spectacular Barun Valley. Starting in Kathmandu, the trek follows the Arun Valley toward Num and gradually climbs into the high Himalayas, offering a remarkable shift from warm lowland hills to rugged alpine landscapes.
The main highlight is reaching Makalu Base Camp at about 4,870 meters, beneath Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the world's fifth-highest mountain. Along the trail, trekkers can enjoy views of Mount Makalu, Chamlang, Baruntse, and other surrounding peaks when weather conditions permit. The route passes through rhododendron forests, remote settlements, mountain streams, open grazing areas, and dramatic glacial terrain. It's quiet trails and limited infrastructure make it especially appealing to travelers seeking a more remote trekking experience away from Nepal’s busier Himalayan routes.
Beyond the spectacular mountain scenery, the trek provides opportunities to experience the traditions and daily lives of local communities, including Sherpa, Rai, and other ethnic groups living in the region. From traditional farming in the lower villages to the mountain lifestyle of settlements around Khongma Danda, the journey reveals how people adapt to the changing landscape and climate. With proper preparation, an experienced guide, and a gradual approach to altitude, the Makalu Base Camp Trek – 20 Days offers a rewarding combination of Himalayan scenery, cultural discovery, and physical adventure.
Key Trip Highlights
Makalu Base Camp: Reach the remote base camp beneath Mount Makalu, the world's fifth-highest mountain.
Mount Makalu (8,485 m): Enjoy the spectacular presence of one of the world’s highest mountains.
Himalayan Mountain Views: See Mount Makalu, Chamlang, Baruntse, and surrounding peaks when weather conditions allow.
Makalu-Barun National Park: Explore a protected region known for its biodiversity, forests, rivers, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Traditional Sherpa Village Experience: Spend time around Khongma Danda and learn about mountain life and local traditions.
Beautiful Barun Valley: Walk through a remote valley featuring rocky landscapes, mountain streams, and alpine scenery.
Trip Briefing
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, where you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After preparing for the trek, you will fly to Tumlingtar and continue by a shared local jeep through Chichila to Num, the starting point of the trekking route. The first walking days take you through Seduwa and Tashi Gaon, where terraced fields, traditional houses, green hills, and village life introduce you to the culture and natural beauty of eastern Nepal.
From Tashi Gaon, the trail climbs toward Khongma Danda, where an acclimatization day lets you rest and explore the surrounding Sherpa village area. The route then continues through the high mountain landscape toward Dobato, Yangla Kharka, and Langmale Kharka before reaching Makalu Base Camp. Along the way, you will experience steep forest trails, remote grazing areas, rocky mountain paths, and increasingly impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The extra time around base camp lets you take in the magnificent scenery beneath Mount Makalu.
After exploring Makalu Base Camp, you will retrace the trail through Yangla Kharka, Dobato, Khongma Danda, Tashi Gaon, Seduwa, and Num. A shared local jeep will take you from Num to Chichila, then to Tumlingtar, followed by a flight back to Kathmandu. The final day is reserved for your airport transfer. Because the route is remote and weather-dependent, walking times, transport arrangements, and overnight facilities may vary based on local conditions and the group’s pace.
Detailed Daily Itinerary
Total 20 Days Itinerary · Click any day to view details & day highlights
Your journey begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. During the drive, you will experience the lively atmosphere of Nepal’s capital, with its busy streets, colorful shops, traditional buildings, and local markets. After checking in, you can relax after your international journey or, if time permits, take a short walk around the hotel area.
Kathmandu is a fascinating introduction to Nepal’s cultural heritage. The city is known for its historic temples, Buddhist stupas, traditional courtyards, and distinctive Newari architecture. Hindu and Buddhist traditions are visible throughout daily life, from small roadside shrines to larger religious sites. If your arrival time allows, you can explore a nearby neighborhood and enjoy local food and atmosphere before heading into the mountains.
In the evening, meet your trekking guide for a trip briefing and equipment check. Your guide will explain the itinerary, walking hours, altitude changes, transportation arrangements, and trek safety precautions. This is also a good opportunity to confirm your personal equipment and ask any final questions about the journey. Spend the night at your hotel and prepare for the domestic flight to Tumlingtar the following day.
Cost Includes & Excludes
Clear, transparent pricing breakdown with no hidden surprises.
What's Included in the Price
- ✓Airport Pickup and Drop-Off: Airport transfers in Kathmandu according to the confirmed itinerary.
- ✓Kathmandu Hotel Accommodation: Two nights in Kathmandu on a Bed and Breakfast (B.B.) plan.
- ✓Domestic Flights: Round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar.
- ✓Shared Jeep Transportation: Shared local jeep transfers from Tumlingtar to Chichila to Num, and from Num to Chichila to Tumlingtar.
- ✓Trekking Guide: An experienced trekking guide for the trekking program, as specified in the confirmed package.
- ✓Trekking Porter: Porter service for the trekking program, with two trekkers sharing one porter. Porter load limits apply.
- ✓Makalu-Barun National Park Permit: Required national park permit, according to current regulations.
- ✓Meals During the Trek: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days, as specified in the itinerary.
- ✓Trekking Accommodation: Accommodation during the trekking program, as specified in the confirmed package and subject to local availability.
- ✓Guide and Porter Insurance: Insurance for the guide and porter according to applicable requirements.
- ✓Government Taxes and Service Charges: Applicable government taxes, VAT, and service charges.
What's Excluded in the Price
- ✕International flights to and from Nepal.
- ✕Nepal entry visa fees.
- ✕Travel insurance for trekkers, including high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation coverage.
- ✕Personal trekking equipment, including trekking boots, clothing, sleeping bags, and trekking poles.
- ✕Meals in Kathmandu except those specified under the package.
- ✕Tips for the guide, porter, and other supporting staff.
- ✕Additional hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, flight delays, or itinerary changes unless specifically agreed.
- ✕Emergency rescue, helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, and related expenses.
- ✕Extra transportation or accommodation resulting from weather disruptions, landslides, road closures, or flight cancellations unless included in the written agreement.
- ✕Any services not explicitly mentioned under Service Includes.
Packing List for Makalu Base Camp Trek -19 Days
Here is a curated list of gear and clothing you might want to pack for your trek. Please take this as a comprehensive starting point. You will need layers of warmer clothing during cold evenings and high-altitude passes.
Important Documents
Optional Items
Electronics
General Gear and Equipment
Head and Upper Body
Clothing
Gloves
Footwear
First Aid and Personal Medicines
Toiletries and Other Essentials
Optional Items
Rental Gear in Kathmandu
We provide a 75-liter duffel bag for your porter during the trek. You can also rent high-grade down jackets and four-season sleeping bags at affordable rental fees in Kathmandu before departure.
FAQs for Makalu Base Camp Trek -19 Days
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