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Hiker Himalaya Treks & Expedition

Makalu Base Camp Trek

Trip code MBCT-24
Package name Makalu Base Camp Trek
Duration 22 Days
Max. elevation 4870 Meter
Level MODERATE
Transportation private vehicles and flight tickets
Accomodation Three-star hotel in Kathmandu; and teahouse lodges, homestay during the trek
Starts at kathmandu
Ends at Kathmandu
Trip route Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Chichira-Num-Seduwa-Tashigaon-Khongma Danda-Dobate-Yangri Kharka-Langmale Kharka-Makalu Base camp-Yangri Kharka-Dobate-Khongma Danda-Tashigaon-Seduwa-Tumlingtar-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu
Cost USD 2,387 per person

Highlights

Overview

Makalu Base Camp Trek, adventure around beautiful Arun and Barun valleys, to the foot of world's 5th highest peaks. Mt. Makalu is located in Nepal Far East between Everest to the west with Mt. Kanchenjunga toward the northeast. An exciting walk with dramatic changes from low sub-tropical to cooler alpine hills, to end at the cold arctic zone. Filled with ice and glaciers at Makalu base camp at 5,250 m or 17, 7 24 feet high.

Located at the end of eastern Barun valley, renowned for rare species of herbs and plants. The Makalu region designated as Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation covers an area of 2, 330 km. Situated within the Sankhuwa Sabha district that extends close to Sagarmatha National Park of Khumbu and the Everest region. Mt. Makalu at 8, 463 m and 27, 766 feet, the first ascent on May 15th, 1955 by French Expedition. Since then the mountain is climbed quite frequently, although gets fewer trekkers than in other popular regions of Nepal Himalaya.

Makalu Base Camp Trek is a perfect adventure for trekkers who enjoys being in less frequented areas around Himalayan destination. This region is considered off the beaten tracks, due to its remote and isolated location. Our 22 days for Makalu base camp trek, begins from Kathmandu the capital of Nepal, steeped with ancient monuments. The old landmarks are listed in world heritage sites, where one can enjoy the tour before departing for the trek. From Kathmandu, a sweeping short flight takes you to eastern Nepal at Tumlingtar, a moderate size town with an airport. On landing transfer for an exciting drive on local four-wheelers to reach mid-hill at Num village to start the trek.

After getting organized with final preparation, the adventure begins by heading down to Arun River and then climbing to Seduwa village. From here on a pleasant walk into a small patch of forest to Tashi Gaon, the last village on route Makalu base camp. The village is populated by Sherpa, the famous mountain tribes of Eastern Himalayas interwoven with Buddhism religion, and interesting culture. Trek from here enters into a dense forest of pines and rhododendron trees with some bamboo stalks. A steep climb reaches you at high Khoma Danda, a scenic ridge where you can enjoy views of Mt. Makalu. Includes Baruntse and Chamlang Himal with 

Mt. Kanchenjunga towards the far-east direction, the walk continues contouring a ridgeline. Heading past Thulo and Sano Pokhari glacial ponds, then traversing over Shipton and Tutu-La to reach Barun valley. The beautiful Barun valley is well hidden by an array of snow peaks and great rocky walls of high cliffs. The walk continues on a pleasant scenic path with gradual up to Makalu base camp, within remorseless fields of ice and glaciers. At Makalu base camp, explore around undisturbed and least ventured hidden corners of Makalu, further, north-west leads to Sherpani Col.

Which is a high route to Hongu valley that leads towards the Everest region through Imjatse Valley. Makalu base camp offers rare views of Mt. Everest famously known as the Khangsung East Face of Everest. After enjoyable and exciting moments at Makalu base camp, return journey towards Barun valley and over Khoma-La pass. After Khoma-La on an easy gentle path back to Num, where drives on the hilly rough road take you to Tumlingtar. Where our fabulous adventurous walks complete a scenic flight to Kathmandu, after a remarkable adventure on the Makalu base camp trek.

Best time for Makalu Base Camp Trek:

Makalu base camp trek best from March to May, during spring season where days are much longer with sun-light hours. Much warmer than any other time of the year, wildflowers will be in seasonal bloom with rhododendron of various species from tall trees to bush. Late afternoon, nights, and morning can be colder above 2,000 m high. Can expect light rains and snow sometimes around higher areas.

Next, the best season is autumn from September to November, a clear and sunny day for pleasant walks and excellent views, but days are short with sun-light hours. Expect snow sometimes during the trek from Kongma Danda onwards to Makalu base camp.

 Acclimatization Makalu Base Camp Trek:

Makalu Base Camp Trek itinerary is planned with a high degree of awareness of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Going up at higher altitudes too fast causes a medical condition serious enough to result in death. The higher the altitude, the less oxygen will be in the air. For example, at an altitude above 5000m, there is 50% less oxygen than at sea level. Therefore, our body needs many days to adapt to an environment with less oxygen. During this trip, a separate day is set aside for acclimatization. 

Food and accommodation during the Makalu base camp trek:

The food and accommodation are much simpler than the trek to Everest and Annapurna. You won't find fancy rooms, dining areas, or a variety of dishes on these trails.

During the Makalu base camp trek, you will not eat any delicious food as it is one of the most remote parts of Nepal, plus the available places will cost you a fortune. Since there is no road in the trekking area, men and mules carry it. You can expect a lot of hard work. While sitting in the tea house, you can eat dal rice and dhido. Non-vegetarian items are rare and expensive. So it is better to eat vegetarian food. If you have cravings, you can take food with you.

When hiking in the lower part of the Makalu area, you will stay in teahouses and lodges as there are plenty of those areas. As you move forward, so does your height. In the upper parts of the Himalayas, you will not find any houses or lodges because people do not live in those parts. Those parts are snowy. While at base camp, and before crossing major passes, you will spend the night at camp. The porters will build the center and cook for you.

How difficult is the trek to Makalu base camp?

The Makalu base camp trek route has been rated as a moderate to high-level trek, but there is nothing harder than climbing the Makalu peak. Altitude gain, weather uncertainty, actual walking distance, and other things make the trek challenging. Like any other trek, the route to reach the base camp goes through many ups and downs. Also, it takes you to points above 3000 meters and keeps you in the Makalu area for about 14 to 22 days. The demand for hiking is not impossible. With the right gear and proper practice, you can reduce risk and make the journey a success. Trekkers of any type (new or professional) can complete the trek.

Transportation for Makalu Base Camp Hiking:

Tumlingtar Makalu Base Camp is the main entrance to the trek. It is a 30 to 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar Airport, about 500 kilometers northeast of the capital. Buddha Air and so many other airlines have been operating daily flights. Now, Num village has road access, it is four hours away from Tumlingtar. If you like road driving, you can drive from Dharan Dhankuta, Hile to Tumlingtar via Kathmandu for about a day.

Compatibility / Fitness / Experience Makalu Base Camp Trek:

As many of our hikes take us to the higher Himalayas, our bodies need to get used to adequate height. There are days built into our Makalu base camp trek itinerary. It is best to take it slowly to avoid high altitude sickness. The fitness level required for this walk. Generally, expect to walk an average of 5-6 hours per day during the test. Generally, this trek can be done with an average level of fitness. More important than fitness or experience is a person's personal perseverance and a positive attitude to complete and enjoy the trek.

Equipment & Packing List for Makalu Base Camp Trek:

This list outlines the required things to bring during the Makalu Base Camp Trek, The weight limit for your luggage is 16 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by our porter. However, you are required to carry a small day- pack with your valuables or anything important. We advise you to pack only what is necessary.

Important Items: Airline tickets; Valid passport; 2 extra passport size photos; Photocopy of your passport; Insurance paper; Dollars, Pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying at restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks and to purchase your own drinks and gifts; Credit Card (Visa/ Mater Card) for withdrawing cash from cash machines if needs.

For Head: Sun Hat; Bandana or head scarf; Headlamp with extra batteries; Sun Glasses with UV protection.

For Upper Body: Shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves); Lightweight thermal tops; Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater; Wind Cheater jacket; Down Jacket

For Lower Body: 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms; 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers; 1 pair of waterproof shell pants and 1 pair of hiking trousers.

For Hands: 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves and 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.

For Feet: 2 pairs of thin inner socks; 2 pairs of poly or wool socks; 1 pair of Hiking boots (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support); 1 pair of running shoes and/or sandals.

Other Useful Items: 1 sleeping bag (good to -22 degrees C or 30 degrees F); Rucksack and Travel Bags; 1 large duffel bag, A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables; Small padlocks for duffel- bags; 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional).

Medical: Your daily taking medicine if any; small personal first aid kit; Aspirin, plasters (band-aids); Sunscreen; lip balms; Anti-diarrhea pills; Anti-headache pills; A cough and/or cold medicine; Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide; Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin.

Digital camera; 2 water bottles (1 liter each); disposable rubbish sacks; Toiletries: 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel; Toothbrush/paste; Multi-purpose soap; Deodorants; Nail clippers; Face and body moisturizer; Tissue /toilet roll; hiking poles, snack food (chocolate/ biscuits); umbrella; reading book or pack of cards (for leisure time during trekking).

Note: If any items are not available in your hometown you can buy them in Trekking Store in Kathmandu before you on trekking

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu Valley (1300m/4,264ft):

After your arrival in Kathmandu Valley, a representative will attend to you and drop you at the hotel. Our representatives will help you check-in and introduce you to the dos and don'ts around the place. You can rest for the day and will be served authentic Nepali cuisine as the first introduction to Nepalese culture.

Day 2 : Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley:

After your breakfast, you will go on a short tour around the valley visiting the most historical and spiritual attractions. Some of these heritages are enlisted in World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Pashupatinath is one of the largest temples for Lord Shiva which attracts domestic and foreign tourists from South Asia. The Swayambhunath is popular as Monkey Temple among fellow tourists and provides a wonderful view of the valley.

Bouddhanath is one of the largest stupas and depicts Tibetian culture. You can immerse yourself in the religious activities happening here. Past afternoon, you will have a pre-trip discussion with the trek leader and your fellow acquaintances.

Day 3 : Flight to Tumlingtar (50 minutes) Drive to Chichira (1980m/6,497ft), 3-4 hours:

Taking an early start, you will fly over the high hills reaching Tumlingtar in 50 minutes. You will drive to Chichara from Tumlingtar and after 3 to 4 hours you will reach a small Gurung settlement and stay overnight prepping for the trek starting tomorrow.

Day 4 : Trek to Num (1560m/5,119ft), 6-7 hours:

You will head towards Num after your breakfast. The trek is moderately paced walking you through the picturesque villages, and lush forests. Num is a ridgeline with stunning views on either side and is perched on the end.

Day 5 : Trek from Num to Seduwa (1500m/4,922 ft), 6-7 hours:

After a warm breakfast, you will descend through the steep forest and terraced farms reaching the Barun river. Cross the river and ascend to the other side. The trek is moderately hot but the forests will offer soothing shade. You will register your permit as you enter the Makalu National Park starting here. You will set out camps after reaching the top.

Day 6 : Trek to Tashigaon (2100m/6,890ft), 4-5 hours:

You will ascend the ridge bounded by the Ipsuwa Khola to the west and Kasuwa Khola to the east. You will trek through the quiet villages and paddy fields reaching Tashi Gaon. The village offers an enticing Himalayan panorama.

Day 7 : Trek to Khongma Danda (3,500m/11,483 ft), 6-7 hours:

Today you will ascend higher through the forests, streams, and onto a ridge. Trekking into even higher altitude, the forests blend into grazing lands, and following rough stone stairs and small lakes, you ascend to the top of the ridge. A short walk reaches Khongma danda for an overnight stay there.

Day 8 : Acclimatization/Rest:

Today, you will allow your body to get acquainted with the climate and high altitude. You can relax and explore the place and go for a short hike around the area.

Day 9 : Trek to Dobate, 6-7 hours:

Climbing towards the summit of the Shipton La pass, you will reach lake Kalo Pokhari (3930m), and pass over the KeKe La(4170m). You can enjoy the marvelous views of Chamlang (7321m), Peak 6 (6524m), and Peak 7 (6758m). After crossing the Keke La pass, you will reach Debate after a short descent.

Day 10 : Trek to Yangri Kharka (3,557m/11,670 ft), 6-7 hours:

You will pass through the rhododendron forest reaching the Barun River, and the upper valley. The trek is difficult and tiring due to the steep trail. After a few hours, the trek gets comfortable and slowly gains altitude. You will reach Yangri Kharkha which is situated at the base of the valley.

Day 11 : Trek to Langmale Kharka: (4,410m/14,468ft), 5-6 hours:

A moderate walk to the valley passes through pasture lands, dense forests, and boulder fields. You will pass Merek on your way to the top, gaining scenic Himalayan views. You will also prepare for your ascent to the summit tomorrow.

Day 12 : Ascend to Makalu Base Camp: (4,870m/15,978ft), 6-7 hours:

From Langmale Kharkha, you will make your way up to the Shershong and to the Makalu Base Camp. The trail is flat, but with icy glaciers and snow-clad mountains. Mt. Makalu appears closer as you approach Shershong. You will get soaked into the majestic Himalayan panorama and enjoy the amazing landscapes as you make your way to the camp.

Day 13 : Explore Makalu Base Camp:

The Base Camp is a barren place with a large Barun Glacier beyond it. You can enjoy the magnificent south face of Mount Makalu and the wide panorama of Everest and Lhotse. You have enough time to marvel at the surrounding lakes, glaciers, and short hikes from the camp. You can celebrate your great fleet at the camp itself.

Day 14 : Descend to Yangri Kharka,(3600m) 6-7 hours:

From the camp, you bid farewell to the mighty mountains and head back. You will descend through the Shershong, Langmale Kharka, and Merek finally stopping at Yangri Kharkha for an overnight stay.

Day 15 : Trek to Dobate, 6-7 hours:

You will descend further through the rock falls, green forests, and valley towards Debate. Following the river banks of the Barun river, you reach Debate. Overnight stay at Dobate.

Day 16 : Trek to Khongma Danda,(3500m) 5-6 hours:

The trek begins with a steep climb to Mumbuk through the forest of firs and rhododendrons. Cross the Keke La, Tutu La, and Kauma La enjoying the wonderful scenery. Finally, descend to Khongma danda for an overnight stay.

Day 17 : Trek to Tashigaon, 4-5 hours:

The steep descending trail passes through the hillsides. As you descend further, you reach the thick forests and into the indigenous Sherpa village of Tashi Gaon.

Day 18 : Trek to Seduwa, 4-5 hours:

You will exit the Makalu Barun National Park and descend down to the Barun River. Cross the hillsides, and several villages and settlements descending further into Seduwa for an overnight stay.

Day 19 : Trek to Num, 5-6 hours:

Bidding farewell to Seduwa, you trek through the dense forests and Sherpa villages descending further into Num. Overnight stay at Num.

Day 20 : Num to Tumlingtar, 6-7 hours:

You will return to Chichiri from Num, savoring the glorious vistas of Mount Makalu. Trekking further reaches Tumlingtar for an overnight stay. You will relax and prepare for your return to the Kathmandu Valley.

Day 21 : Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu, 50 mins flight:

You will fly back to Kathmandu after the wonderful, strenuous, and long trek. The short flight is scheduled early giving you plenty of time to rest, organize your photos, shop for souvenirs, and exchange contacts. You will receive a farewell dinner from our team and a celebration of accomplishment.

Day 22 : Final departure:

The wonderfully long and amazing trek ends today. Today, our representatives will drop you back at the airport before your scheduled flight. As you onboard your flight and depart to the clouds, the memories of the trek will keep you awake, willing to come back to Nepal for yet another wonderful memory to create.

Inclusions

What is included?

What isn't included?

Complimentary

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