The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and remote trekking adventures, leading to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m) beneath Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world. This 20-day Makalu Base Camp Trek in eastern Nepal combines challenging high-altitude trekking, remarkable Himalayan scenery, traditional mountain villages, and the pristine wilderness of Makalu Barun National Park.
The journey begins in Kathmandu with sightseeing at UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic flight to Tumlingtar and a drive to Num, where the trek begins. The trail passes through Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma Danda, Dobate, Yangri Kharka, and Langmale Kharka before reaching Makalu Base Camp. Along the way, trekkers cross challenging high mountain passes, including Shipton La and Keke La, and travel through subtropical forests, rhododendron woodlands, alpine meadows, deep river valleys, and dramatic glacial landscapes.
The route through the Arun and Barun valleys offers an authentic experience of remote eastern Nepal, with traditional Rai and Sherpa communities and exceptional biodiversity. Makalu Barun National Park provides habitat for wildlife including the red panda, Himalayan tahr, and elusive snow leopard. From the higher sections of the trek, the surrounding Himalayan panorama includes Makalu, Chamlang, Baruntse, and other impressive peaks, while Makalu Base Camp offers a dramatic close-up view of Makalu’s immense mountain landscape.
Ideal for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging alternative to Nepal’s busier trekking routes. With fewer trekkers, demanding trails, high passes, diverse landscapes, and two dedicated acclimatization and exploration days, it is an excellent choice for those seeking a remote and off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal.
| Day | Route / Activity | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel | Hotel |
| Day 02 | Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage sightseeing and trek preparation | Hotel |
| Day 03 | Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to Num | Teahouse |
| Day 04 | Trek from Num to Seduwa | Teahouse |
| Day 05 | Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon | Teahouse |
| Day 06 | Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda | Teahouse |
| Day 07 | Acclimatization day at Khongma Danda | Teahouse |
| Day 08 | Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate via the high passes | Teahouse |
| Day 09 | Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka | Teahouse |
| Day 10 | Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka | Teahouse |
| Day 11 | Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp | Teahouse |
| Day 12 | Explore Makalu Base Camp and optional ridge viewpoint hike | Teahouse |
| Day 13 | Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka | Teahouse |
| Day 14 | Trek from Yangri Kharka to Dobate | Teahouse |
| Day 15 | Trek from Dobate to Khongma Danda | Teahouse |
| Day 16 | Trek from Khongma Danda to Seduwa | Teahouse |
| Day 17 | Trek from Seduwa to Num and drive to Tumlingtar | Teahouse |
| Day 18 | Fly from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu | Hotel |
| Day 19 | Free day in Kathmandu or optional Boudhanath and Bhaktapur sightseeing | Hotel |
| Day 20 | Final departure – transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport | — |
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a strenuous high-altitude trek requiring good physical fitness, stamina, and preparation. The route reaches Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m and involves steep ascents and descents, remote mountain terrain, and high passes including Shipton La and Keke La.
Most trekking days involve around 5–7 hours of walking. No technical climbing experience is required, but previous multi-day or high-altitude trekking experience is highly beneficial. The itinerary includes an acclimatization day at Khongma Danda to support gradual adjustment to the altitude.
| Difficulty Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Trip Grade | Strenuous |
| Maximum Elevation | Makalu Base Camp – 4,870 m |
| Walking Time | Approximately 5–7 hours per day |
| Terrain | Steep trails, forests, rocky paths, alpine valleys and high mountain passes |
| High Passes | Shipton La, Keke La and other passes between Khongma Danda and Dobate |
| Acclimatization | Dedicated acclimatization day at Khongma Danda |
| Technical Climbing | Not required |
| Fitness Level | Good fitness, stamina and trekking endurance required |
| Previous Experience | Multi-day or high-altitude trekking experience is highly beneficial |
| Main Challenges | High altitude, steep trails, long trekking days, high passes and changing mountain weather |
The best time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is generally more stable and mountain visibility is at its best. Spring offers warmer temperatures and colourful rhododendron forests, while autumn brings clear skies and excellent Himalayan views. Winter can bring heavy snow to the high passes, while the summer monsoon makes trails wet, slippery and more prone to landslides.
| Season | Months | Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–May | Warmer days, rhododendron blooms and good mountain views | Excellent |
| Summer / Monsoon | June–August | Heavy rain, cloudy skies, slippery trails and landslide risk | Not Recommended |
| Autumn | September–November | Stable weather, clear skies and excellent Himalayan views | Excellent |
| Winter | December–February | Very cold with possible heavy snow on the high passes | Challenging |
During the Makalu Base Camp Trek, accommodation is provided in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu and locally operated teahouses and mountain lodges along the trekking route. Rooms in the lower villages are generally simple but comfortable, while facilities become more basic at higher and more remote locations such as Khongma Danda, Dobate, Langmale Kharka and Makalu Base Camp.
Most teahouses provide twin-sharing rooms with basic beds, mattresses, blankets and pillows. Private bathrooms, hot showers, charging facilities and Wi-Fi are limited and may not be available at higher elevations. A warm sleeping bag is strongly recommended for the colder nights in the upper Makalu region.
| Location | Accommodation | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | Comfortable Hotel | Private room with modern facilities |
| Lower Trekking Route | Teahouse / Mountain Lodge | Basic twin-sharing rooms; some facilities available |
| Higher Makalu Region | Basic Teahouse / Lodge | Simple rooms with limited facilities |
| Makalu Base Camp | Basic Mountain Teahouse | Simple accommodation with very limited facilities |
The Makalu Base Camp Trek requires a Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit and TIMS Card, both of which are arranged by Himalayan Dream Team before the trek. A licensed trekking guide is required under the current TIMS regulations for the Makalu Base Camp route.
All necessary trekking permits included in your package are arranged in advance, allowing you to enjoy the journey without worrying about permit formalities.
| Permit | Current Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit | NPR 3,000 per person | Required for foreign trekkers entering Makalu Barun National Park |
| TIMS Card | NPR 2,000 per person | Required for foreign trekkers on the Makalu Base Camp Trek under current TIMS regulations |
| Licensed Trekking Guide | Required | The Makalu Base Camp route is listed under Nepal's mandatory guide and TIMS regulations |
| Permit Arrangement | Included | Himalayan Dream Team arranges the required permits before the trek |
During the Makalu Base Camp Trek, breakfast, lunch and dinner are included throughout the trekking days. Meals are served at local teahouses and mountain lodges, with choices becoming more limited as you travel into the remote upper Makalu region.
Typical meals include dal bhat, soups, noodles, rice, potatoes, pasta, eggs, momos and seasonal vegetables, along with tea and other hot drinks. Dal bhat is particularly popular among trekkers because it provides a filling combination of rice, lentils and vegetables. Vegetarian meals are widely available, while vegan and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
| Location | Meals Included | Meal Options |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | Breakfast & Welcome Dinner | Hotel breakfast and traditional Nepali welcome dinner |
| During the Trek | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Nepali and simple Continental-style trekking meals |
| Higher Makalu Region | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Simple meals with more limited choices due to the remote location |
| Special Diets | Available on Request | Vegetarian, vegan and other dietary requirements with advance notice |
All transportation during the Makalu Base Camp Trek is arranged by Himalayan Dream Team, including airport transfers, domestic flights and overland transfers required by the itinerary. Flights to and from Tumlingtar and mountain-road journeys are subject to weather, road conditions and local circumstances, so travel times may occasionally vary.
| Route | Transportation | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu Airport – Hotel | Private Vehicle | 30–45 minutes |
| Kathmandu – Tumlingtar | Domestic Flight | Approx. 30–45 minutes |
| Tumlingtar – Num | Jeep / Private Vehicle | Approx. 6–7 hours |
| Seduwa – Tumlingtar | Jeep / Local Vehicle | Approx. 6–7 hours |
| Tumlingtar – Kathmandu | Domestic Flight | Approx. 35–45 minutes |
| Kathmandu Hotel – Airport | Private Vehicle | 30–45 minutes |
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a remote and demanding high-altitude journey, making experienced local support especially important. Himalayan Dream Team provides an experienced, government-licensed, first-aid-trained English-speaking trekking guide throughout the trek.
Porter service is included, with one porter shared between two trekkers and a maximum luggage load of 22 kg per porter. Our trekking staff are provided with appropriate wages, meals, accommodation, equipment and insurance throughout the journey.
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Trekking Guide | Experienced, government-licensed, first-aid-trained English-speaking guide |
| Porter Service | 1 porter shared between 2 trekkers |
| Porter Luggage Limit | Maximum 22 kg per porter |
| Staff Welfare | Meals, accommodation, wages, equipment and insurance provided |
| Included in Package | Yes |
The Makalu Base Camp Trek reaches 4,870 m at Makalu Base Camp, with several days spent above 3,500 m. The itinerary is designed with gradual altitude gain and includes a dedicated acclimatization day at Khongma Danda (3,562 m) before crossing the high passes.
Trekkers should walk at a steady pace, stay well hydrated and inform the guide immediately if they experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Our experienced trekking guide will monitor the group throughout the journey and adjust the pace when necessary.
| Altitude Point | Elevation | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Khongma Danda | 3,562 m | Dedicated acclimatization day before the high-pass crossing |
| Shipton La | Approx. 4,200 m | Highest point during the major high-pass crossing |
| Langmale Kharka | 4,420 m | High-altitude overnight stop before Makalu Base Camp |
| Makalu Base Camp | 4,870 m | Highest overnight point of the trek |
| Optional Ridge Hike | Up to approx. 5,300 m | Optional hike depending on weather, trail conditions and acclimatization |
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Dream Team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
After check-in, you can relax or explore the lively streets of Thamel. In the evening, meet your trekking guide for a Makalu Base Camp Trek briefing, followed by a traditional Nepali welcome dinner and an introduction to the journey ahead.
After breakfast, meet your guide for a cultural tour of some of the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Begin at this ancient Buddhist stupa perched on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley. Sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, Swayambhunath is renowned for its religious significance, prayer flags, shrines and panoramic views.
Pashupatinath Temple: Continue to Nepal's most sacred Hindu temple complex, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Here you can observe temples, shrines, sadhus and traditional Hindu rituals.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore the historic royal square in the heart of old Kathmandu, known for its traditional Newari architecture, ancient temples, courtyards and intricately carved wooden buildings.
Local Markets: Finish the sightseeing experience with a walk through Kathmandu's traditional markets, where spice stalls, fresh produce and local shops provide a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in the capital.
After sightseeing, return to your hotel for final Makalu Base Camp Trek preparation and an equipment check with your trekking guide.
After breakfast, transfer to the domestic airport for a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (30 minutes), the gateway to the Makalu region in eastern Nepal. On a clear day, the flight offers impressive aerial views of Nepal's hills and Himalayan landscapes.
After landing in Tumlingtar, continue by road toward Num, the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp trekking trail. The journey follows winding mountain roads through the hills of Sankhuwasabha, passing rural settlements, terraced farmland and forested slopes.
The road climbs through the Chichila area, reaching approximately 1,900–2,000 m, the highest section of today's journey, before descending toward Num (1,560 m). From Num, the deep Arun Valley and surrounding hills give your first real impression of the remote landscape that characterizes the Makalu Base Camp Trek.
On arrival, settle into your teahouse and prepare for tomorrow's first day on foot.
Today's trek begins with a steep descent from Num (1,560 m) through terraced farmland and subtropical vegetation toward the Arun River (approximately 770 m). The trail passes through cardamom fields and small rural settlements before reaching a suspension bridge across the river.
After crossing the Arun River, begin a long and steady ascent through bamboo forest, cardamom plantations and lush hillside terrain. This challenging climb offers occasional views back across the deep Arun Valley and surrounding forested hills.
Continue uphill to Seduwa (1,540 m), the gateway to Makalu Barun National Park, where the necessary park entry formalities are completed. Surrounded by terraced fields and traditional village life, Seduwa provides a peaceful overnight stop after the first demanding day of the Makalu Base Camp Trek.
On arrival, settle into your teahouse and rest for the following day's trek toward Tashigaon.
Leaving Seduwa (1,540 m), follow a gradually ascending trail through terraced farmland, bamboo groves and cardamom plantations. The route passes small settlements and traditional farming areas as you continue deeper into Makalu Barun National Park.
The trail gradually enters rhododendron and oak forest, crossing small streams and bridges along the way. As you approach Tashigaon (2,100 m), the path becomes steeper, with a final climb leading into this traditional Sherpa village surrounded by forested hills.
Tashigaon is the last permanent settlement before entering the higher and more remote sections of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Spend the night at a local teahouse and prepare for tomorrow's considerably steeper climb toward Khongma Danda.
Today is one of the more demanding uphill sections of the Makalu Base Camp Trek, with a significant gain in altitude as you leave Tashigaon and enter the higher mountain terrain of Makalu Barun National Park.
The trail climbs steeply through dense rhododendron and oak forest to Dhara (approximately 2,867 m), a good place to rest before continuing uphill. From here, ascend toward Unshisa (approximately 3,200 m) as the vegetation gradually becomes thinner and the landscape more alpine.
The final section involves another steady climb to Khongma Danda (3,562 m), a remote ridge surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. Settle into your teahouse and rest well, as tomorrow is reserved for acclimatization before crossing the high passes toward Dobate.
Today is an important acclimatization day at Khongma Danda, allowing your body additional time to adjust before tomorrow's high-pass crossing.
After breakfast, take an acclimatization hike above Khongma Danda toward the Khongma La area, gradually climbing to approximately 3,890 m. The hike provides valuable altitude exposure and, in clear weather, excellent views across the surrounding Himalayan ridges.
After spending some time at the higher elevation, descend to Khongma Danda for lunch and a relaxing afternoon. Following the principle of “climb high, sleep low”, today's hike helps prepare your body for the more demanding crossing toward Dobate.
Today is one of the most challenging and spectacular days of the Makalu Base Camp Trek, crossing a series of high mountain passes between Khongma Danda and Dobate.
Begin with a steady climb toward Khongma La, followed by the crossing of Sano Pokhari Danda (approximately 4,105 m). Continue across the exposed mountain terrain toward Shipton La (approximately 4,200 m), the highest point of today's trek and one of the best-known passes on the Makalu Base Camp route.
From Shipton La, descend toward Kalo Pokhari, a beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by rugged mountain scenery and prayer flags. The trail then climbs again to Keke La (approximately 4,170 m), the final major pass of the day.
After crossing Keke La, make a long descent through increasingly forested terrain to Dobate (approximately 3,650 m). Settle into your teahouse and enjoy a well-earned rest after completing one of the trek's most demanding high-altitude days.
After breakfast, descend from Dobate through dense rhododendron and pine forest toward the upper Barun Valley. The first part of the trail can be steep and slippery, particularly after rain or when snow remains on the higher slopes.
Continue through the forest toward Themathang Kharka, passing waterfalls and increasingly dramatic valley scenery. The trail then crosses sections affected by landslides before reaching a bridge over the Barun River.
Follow the river upstream through birch, rhododendron and juniper forest as the valley gradually opens into high mountain pastures. Eventually reach Yangri Kharka (approximately 3,600 m), a peaceful grazing area surrounded by towering cliffs and Himalayan peaks.
Spend the night at a basic teahouse beside the Barun Valley and rest before tomorrow's climb toward Langmale Kharka.
Leaving Yangri Kharka (3,600 m), follow the upper Barun Valley as the trail climbs steadily through increasingly alpine terrain. Pass seasonal grazing areas and yak pastures while enjoying the dramatic transition from forested valley to high Himalayan landscapes.
The route continues past Yak Kharka and Merek, with increasingly impressive views of the surrounding peaks and glacial valley. As you gain altitude, vegetation becomes sparse and the air noticeably thinner.
A final steady ascent brings you to Langmale Kharka (4,420 m), a remote high-altitude settlement surrounded by rugged Himalayan scenery. Settle into your teahouse, stay well hydrated and rest in preparation for tomorrow's trek to Makalu Base Camp.
Today you reach the main destination of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Leaving Langmale Kharka, follow the upper Barun Valley through a spectacular high-altitude landscape of rocky terrain, glacial features and towering Himalayan peaks.
The trail climbs gradually toward Shershong (approximately 4,630 m), an open high-altitude meadow surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. From here, continue toward Makalu as the immense south face of Mount Makalu (8,485 m) becomes increasingly prominent.
A final approach brings you to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m), situated beneath the world's fifth-highest mountain. Settle into your teahouse and enjoy the extraordinary setting of one of Nepal's most remote Himalayan base camps.
Today is reserved for exploring the spectacular surroundings of Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m). Depending on weather, trail conditions and your acclimatization, your guide may lead an optional hike to a higher ridge viewpoint above the base camp.
The higher viewpoints provide exceptional perspectives of Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the surrounding peaks, glaciers and the upper Barun Valley. On particularly clear days, distant Himalayan peaks may also be visible from suitable viewpoints.
Alternatively, enjoy a shorter exploration around the base camp and nearby glacial landscape before returning to the teahouse. The additional day at Makalu Base Camp also provides valuable time at altitude before beginning the return journey.
After breakfast, leave Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m) and begin the long descent through the upper Barun Valley. Retrace the trail through Shershong and Langmale Kharka, enjoying a different perspective of the glaciers, alpine meadows and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Continue descending through Merek and Yak Kharka as the landscape gradually becomes greener and the air warmer. Although mostly downhill, this is a long trekking day and the rocky terrain requires steady footing.
Follow the Barun River downstream to Yangri Kharka (3,600 m), where you settle into your teahouse for a well-earned rest after descending more than 1,200 metres from Makalu Base Camp.
Leaving Yangri Kharka, retrace the trail through the beautiful Barun Valley, following the river through alpine pastures before entering rhododendron, birch and pine forest.
Continue toward Themathang Kharka, crossing the Barun River and carefully traversing sections of landslide-affected terrain. The trail then climbs steadily through dense forest toward Dobate.
After the final ascent, arrive at Dobate (approximately 3,650 m) for the night. This peaceful forest settlement provides a welcome place to rest before tomorrow's return crossing of the high passes toward Khongma Danda.
Today is another demanding high-altitude day as you retrace the spectacular pass route between Dobate and Khongma Danda. Leaving Dobate, climb steadily through rhododendron forest toward Keke La (approximately 4,170 m), where the trail opens to impressive views across the surrounding Himalayan ridges.
Continue across the high mountain terrain toward Shipton La (approximately 4,200 m), the highest point of today's trek. The route then passes Kalo Pokhari and Sano Pokhari Danda (approximately 4,105 m) before continuing toward the Khongma La area.
After completing the high-pass crossing, descend toward Khongma Danda (3,562 m). Settle into your teahouse for a well-earned rest after one of the final challenging days of the Makalu Base Camp Trek.
Leaving Khongma Danda (3,562 m), begin a long descent from the high mountain terrain toward the greener lower valleys of the Makalu region. The trail drops through rhododendron, oak and bamboo forest as the vegetation becomes increasingly lush.
Continue downhill through Danda Kharka toward Tashigaon (2,100 m), the first permanent village encountered on the return journey. From Tashigaon, follow the trail through terraced farmland, cardamom plantations and small settlements.
The final section leads back to Seduwa (1,540 m), where you settle into your teahouse for the night. After several days in the high Himalayas, the warmer climate and green landscapes provide a striking contrast to the upper Barun Valley.
After breakfast, leave Seduwa (1,540 m) and begin the scenic overland journey to Tumlingtar (457 m). The drive follows rough and winding mountain roads through the remote hills of eastern Nepal, passing traditional villages, terraced farmland, cardamom plantations and forested landscapes.
Along the journey, the road climbs and descends through the hills before gradually reaching the warmer Arun Valley. Enjoy changing views of rural settlements, river valleys and the lush landscapes of the lower Makalu region as you leave the trekking trail behind.
On arrival in Tumlingtar, settle into your teahouse and enjoy your final evening with the trekking team after completing the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Tomorrow, you will take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
After breakfast, transfer to Tumlingtar Airport for the scenic flight back to Kathmandu. On a clear day, enjoy aerial views across Nepal's hills, river valleys and Himalayan landscapes during the journey west.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu (1,335 m), transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax, enjoy a hot shower, explore Thamel or browse the local shops for souvenirs after completing your Makalu Base Camp adventure.
After breakfast, you have a full free day to relax OR explore more of the Kathmandu Valley’s rich cultural heritage. For those interested, we recommend an optional sightseeing tour to two of Nepal’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Boudhanath Stupa and Bhaktapur.
Morning - Boudhnath Stupa, A Center of Peace and Spirituality
To start the day, you’ll go to the Budhhanath Stupa, one of the biggest and most sacred stupas in the world. As you approach the large white dome structure, notice the golden buddha eyes on the dome looking down on you, and notice the peace it brings. Take time to meditate, and join the devotees for a few minutes to walk around the stupa and participate in prayer and spiritual activities.
After the stupa, you can head to one of the vibrant and lively monasteries and participate in ritals, You can watch the monks and pilgrims and the relaxing and serene environment that they bring to the place, as they perform their rituals.
Afternoon – Bhaktapur: The Living Heritage of Nepal
After completing your visit to Boudhanath, drive to Bhaktapur, where you will first enjoy lunch at a traditional Newari restaurant before beginning your exploration of this beautifully preserved medieval city.
Bhaktapur’s brick-paved streets, ornate temples, and open courtyards transport you back in time to the days of the Malla kings.
Sightseeing will end in the late afternoon and you will go back to Kathmandu. Depending on time, you can take a walk in Thamel for a beautiful evening and do last minute souvenir shopping. It is a busy area with many shops, cafes and lovely streets.
Your 20-day Makalu Base Camp Trek comes to an end today. Depending on your international flight schedule, you will have some free time to relax or enjoy a final walk around Kathmandu.
A representative from Himalayan Dream Team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in good time for your onward flight. We hope you leave Nepal with wonderful memories of the remote Barun Valley, Makalu Base Camp and your Himalayan adventure.
If you would like to extend your stay in Nepal, additional sightseeing tours, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara and other trekking or cultural experiences can be arranged on request.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a strenuous high-altitude trek suitable for physically fit trekkers who are comfortable with long walking days, steep ascents and descents, and remote mountain conditions. Most trekking days involve approximately 5–7 hours of walking, with demanding sections around the high passes between Khongma Danda and Dobate.
No technical climbing experience is required, but previous multi-day or high-altitude trekking experience is highly beneficial. Regular cardiovascular and endurance training before the trek is strongly recommended.
Makalu Base Camp is located at approximately 4,870 m, making it the highest overnight point of the standard itinerary. The trek also crosses high passes around 4,200 m, including Shipton La and Keke La.
On the exploration day at Makalu Base Camp, an optional ridge hike may reach approximately 5,300 m, depending on weather, trail conditions and the trekkers' acclimatization.
Our Makalu Base Camp Trek itinerary is 20 days, beginning and ending in Kathmandu. The program includes Kathmandu sightseeing, domestic flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar, overland transportation, trekking through Makalu Barun National Park, an acclimatization day at Khongma Danda and an exploration day at Makalu Base Camp.
The itinerary is designed to provide sufficient time for acclimatization while allowing trekkers to experience the remote Barun Valley at a comfortable trekking pace.
The best time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These seasons generally provide the most favourable combination of stable weather, mountain visibility and trekking conditions.
Spring is particularly beautiful for rhododendron forests and warmer daytime temperatures, while autumn is known for clearer skies and excellent Himalayan views. Winter can bring heavy snow to the high passes, while the summer monsoon can cause slippery trails, landslides and travel delays.
The standard Makalu Base Camp route requires a Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit and TIMS Card under the current trekking arrangements. Himalayan Dream Team arranges the necessary trekking permits included in your package before departure.
Trekkers should travel with the required documentation and follow current Nepal trekking regulations. Permit requirements can change, so we verify the applicable regulations before each departure.
Yes. The Makalu Base Camp route is remote, and current trekking regulations require the applicable guide and TIMS arrangements. Himalayan Dream Team provides an experienced, government-licensed, first-aid-trained English-speaking trekking guide throughout the journey.
A knowledgeable guide is particularly valuable in Makalu because of the remote terrain, high passes, changing weather, limited infrastructure and long distances between settlements.
Solo travellers are welcome to book the Makalu Base Camp Trek with Himalayan Dream Team. However, the trek must follow current permit, guide and trekking regulations.
If you are traveling alone, we can advise you about private trekking arrangements or suitable group departures. Joining a small group can also be a good option for solo travellers who would like to share the experience and some trip costs.
Accommodation is provided in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu and local teahouses or mountain lodges during the trek. Facilities in lower villages such as Seduwa and Tashigaon are generally better than those in the remote upper Makalu region.
At Khongma Danda, Dobate, Langmale Kharka and Makalu Base Camp, accommodation is basic. Rooms generally provide simple beds and blankets, while private bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi and charging facilities may be limited or unavailable.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included during the trekking days. Typical teahouse meals include dal bhat, rice, noodles, soups, potatoes, pasta, eggs, momos and seasonal vegetables.
Food choices become more limited as you travel deeper into the remote Makalu region. Vegetarian meals are widely available, and vegan or other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Yes. The trek reaches 4,870 m at Makalu Base Camp, so altitude sickness must be taken seriously. Our itinerary includes gradual altitude gain and a dedicated acclimatization day at Khongma Danda (3,562 m) before crossing the higher passes.
Trekkers should walk slowly, stay hydrated, eat properly and report headaches, nausea, dizziness, unusual fatigue or other symptoms to the guide immediately. Your guide will monitor the group's condition and make safety-based decisions when necessary.
Begin preparing several weeks or months before departure with a combination of cardiovascular exercise, endurance training, strength work and regular hiking. Walking uphill and downhill with a daypack is particularly useful preparation.
Focus on building stamina rather than speed. If possible, complete several consecutive days of hiking before traveling to Nepal so your body becomes accustomed to repeated long walking days.
Essential equipment includes well-broken-in trekking boots, warm base and mid-layers, a down jacket, waterproof jacket and trousers, gloves, warm hat, sun hat, sunglasses, trekking poles, sleeping bag, reusable water bottle and personal medication.
Conditions vary considerably between the warm Arun Valley and the cold high-altitude sections around Langmale Kharka and Makalu Base Camp, making a good layering system essential. A detailed recommended Makalu Base Camp Trek packing list will be provided after booking.
Water is available at teahouses and settlements along much of the trekking route, although availability becomes more limited in remote areas. Trekkers should avoid drinking untreated water directly from streams or taps.
We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and an appropriate water-treatment method. Your trekking guide will advise you about safe drinking-water options available at each overnight stop.
Electricity, mobile coverage and internet access are limited and unreliable, particularly in the higher Makalu region. Some lower teahouses may provide charging or connectivity for an additional fee, but these services should not be expected throughout the trek.
We recommend carrying a fully charged power bank and keeping electronic use to a minimum. The remote nature and limited connectivity are also part of what makes the Makalu Base Camp Trek such a genuine wilderness experience.
Yes. Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is essential for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Your policy should specifically cover high-altitude trekking up to at least the maximum elevation reached on your itinerary and include emergency evacuation and helicopter rescue where applicable.
Because Makalu is a remote region with limited road access and medical facilities, appropriate insurance is particularly important. Himalayan Dream Team can arrange emergency rescue assistance when required, but all rescue and evacuation costs are the responsibility of the traveller and their insurance provider.
Himalayan Dream Team provides one porter for every two trekkers, with a maximum combined luggage load of 22 kg per porter, or approximately 11 kg per trekker.
You should carry a small daypack containing water, snacks, sun protection, a camera or phone, valuables, personal medication, rain protection and any clothing you may need during the day's walk. Additional luggage can normally be stored securely at your Kathmandu hotel during the trek.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a quieter and more remote Himalayan adventure. Compared with the popular Everest and Annapurna trekking regions, the Makalu trail receives significantly fewer visitors and retains a stronger wilderness character.
The journey combines Makalu Barun National Park, the Arun and Barun Valleys, Shipton La and Keke La, remote Rai and Sherpa communities, alpine meadows, glacial landscapes and Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m) beneath Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the world's fifth-highest mountain. It is an excellent choice for trekkers who value solitude, challenging terrain and an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal.
Tipping is customary in Nepal's trekking industry and is a meaningful way to thank your trekking guide, porter and support staff for good service. Tips are not included in the Makalu Base Camp Trek package price and remain entirely at your discretion.
For recommended amounts and practical advice, please read our Tipping Guide for Trekking in Nepal.
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