Makalu Base Camp Trek
- 24
days
Makalu Base Camp Trek falls under the choice of erudite trekkers. It takes you to the fifth highest mountain base camp in the world. Trek on the trail less frequented and enjoyed a Himalayan adventure. You will be trekking in Makalu Barun National Park, rich in the Himalayan flora and fauna, home to animals like snow leopard, red panda, and black bear.
Bask in the breathtaking view of Mt. Makalu and enjoy the stunning scenery of mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, and Kanchenjunga, during your trek to Makalu Base Camp. Moreover, you will be trekking past lush green forest, high waterfalls cascading into deep gorges, huge boulders.
Enjoy the Himalayan adventure, where you will be hiking on ascending and descending trails. Also, traverse high passes over 4,000 meters like Shipton La and Keke La. Pay a visit to the holy Kalo Pokhari Lake adorned with prayer flags. Get an insight into the rich mountain culture and tradition. You will meet ethnic groups like Rai and Sherpa are with Tibetan roots. Get a sneak-peek into the daily lives of people in rural Nepal.
The journey begins with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a drive to Chichila, the trailhead of the trek. You will be trekking past the hillside villages of Num and walking past farmlands, and crossing bridges to Seduwa via the Arun River. Moreover, you will be trekking past the quaint village of Tashigaon, followed by a trek to Khongma Danada, where you will be spending a day acclimatizing. Take an acclimatization hike to Khongma La overlooking the stunning mountain views.
Further, you will be trekking on rugged terrain and traversing passes like Shipton La and Keke La over 4,000 meters. Trek past the Hindu holy lake of Kalo Pokhari and descend to Dobate. Walk through a lush green forest to Debate and continue your trek through a jungle and past meadows to Yangle Kharka. Enjoy a trek and bask in the view of the Himalayas on your way to Langmale. Spend a day acclimatizing at Langmale before trekking to Sherson.
You will be trekking to Makalu Base Camp, residing at 4,900m/16,076ft. On the following day, which is also the highest point of your trek. Explore Makalu Base Camp for a day and bask in the stunning view of towering peaks. Retrace your steps back the same route as before. You will be trekking past Yangle Kharka, Debate, Khongma Danda, Tashigaon, Seduwa, and Num on your way to Tumlingtar. You will notice ethnic diversity as you trek from lower to higher altitudes. Rai people inhibit the lower region while finding Sherpa people of Tibetan roots in the upper region. Further, you will be flying back to Kathmandu, and on the next day, you will be taking an international flight back home with memories for a lifetime.
The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.
Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.
Garrett Lancer
|
June 30, 2021
Braeden Johnston
|
June 30, 2021
Robbie Bluett
|
June 19, 2021
Raul Pugliesi
|
March 16, 2021
Shawn Murphy
|
March 14, 2021
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation |
| Day 2 | Kathmandu Sightseeing |
| Day 3 | Fly to Tumlingtar and drive to the trailhead Chichila (1,980m/6,497ft) - 1 hour flight and 4 to 5 hours drive |
| Day 4 | Trek to Num (1,980m/6,497ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek |
| Day 5 | Trek to Seduwa via the Arun River (1,500m/4,922ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 6 | Trek to Tashigaon (2,100m/6,890ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek |
| Day 7 | Trek to Khongma Danda (3,500m/11,483ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 8 | Acclimatization day in Khongma Danda |
| Day 9 | Trek to Dobate (3,650m/11,975ft) via Shipton La (4,229m/13,874ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 10 | Trek to Yangle Kharka (3,557m/11,670ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 11 | Trek to Langmale Kharka (4,410m/14,468ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek |
| Day 12 | Acclimatization day at Langmale Kharka |
| Day 13 | Trek to Sherson (4,500m/14,763ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 14 | Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4,900m/16,076ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek |
| Day 15 | Day walk around Makalu Base Camp |
| Day 16 | Begin return trip; trek to Yangle Kharka (3,600m/11,811ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 17 | Trek to Dobate (3,650m/11,975ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 18 | Trek to Khongma Danda (3,500m/11,483ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek |
| Day 19 | Trek to Tashigaon (2,100m/6,890ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek |
| Day 20 | Trek to Seduwa (1,500m/4,922ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek |
| Day 21 | Trek to Num (1,980m/6,497ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek |
| Day 22 | Drive to Tumlingtar - 4 to 5 hours drive |
| Day 23 | Fly to Kathmandu - 35 minutes flight |
| Day 24 | Final departure from Kathmandu |
Makalu Base Camp Trek Map
The gorgeous view of mountains will greet you before landing in Kathmandu. A representative from Third Rock Adventures will welcome you to the airport and drive you to your hotel. Later in the day, you will meet your guide and get a briefing on the trek. If you have any questions regarding the trek, you can ask your guide as well. Moreover, you can go through your gear list for the last time before going on the trek. If you want to add or forget anything, you can either buy or hire from the trekking gear shops in Thamel. Also, you can ask for help or recommendations from the guide.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Swayambhunath Stupa
Go on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites listed Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Climb 365 steps on your way to the hilltop stupa of Swayambhunath, a holy site for Buddhists. It is also famous as Monkey Temple due to the presence of an abundance of monkeys. Visit one of the holiest places for the Hindus, Pashupatinath Temple, located on the bank of the holy river Bagmati. The two-story temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also, stroll around the Kathmandu Durbar Square, filled with temples, palaces, and edifices dating back to the medieval era.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Today you will be taking a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. Enjoy the stunning view of the snowcapped mountains from your aircraft’s window. Further, you will be driving on the meandering hilly road to the small town of Kandbari. You will get a glimpse of a rural hillside village, and you will be driving on the road lined with bamboo and sal trees. A drive further will take you to the Gurung village of Chichira, also the trailhead of your trek.
Overnight in Chichira.
Today you will begin your trek after having breakfast. You will be trekking past traditional hillside villages and trekking through lush forest to Num. The village of Num is perched on a ridge and offers a stunning view on both sides.
Overnight in Num.
You will be walking on an ascending and descending trail. Walk on a big and steep descending trail to the Arun River, and the trail features big stone steps to the river. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of rural Nepal on the way. Cross the suspension bridge over the Arun River and hike on a meandering trail before hiking on an ascending trail to Seduwa. En route, you will be trekking past giant bamboo trees and lively villages filled with traditional houses, small shops, and tea houses spread across the hillside. Moreover, you will be entering Makalu Barun National Park, and there is also a checkpoint to register the permits.
Overnight in Seduwa.
Tashigaon
It will be comparatively easy than yesterday and an undulating walk as well. You will be climbing stone steps and trekking past many Mani walls. Moreover, you will be walking through farmlands and forests filled with bamboo and rhododendron forests. A walk through a dense forest will be filled with the chirping birds. The forest is home to birds, including cuckoos, laughing thrushes, drongos, and barbets. Cross the small settlement of Chyaksa Danda and descend to a bridge. You will be climbing up the stone steps to Tashigaon.
Overnight in Tashigaon.
Your trek starts with ascending, and you will be climbing many stone steps. Further, you will be crossing a bridge followed by a hike on an ascending trail through a rhododendron forest. The rhododendron blooms in the spring season, making the forest colorful. A wonderful walk through a forest will take you to Dhara and where you will be stopping for lunch and refreshments. Further, you will be climbing a steep trail and trekking past a giant rock before reaching Unshisa. Climb stone steps through rhododendron forest, and a trek further will take you to Khongma Danda.
Overnight in Khongma Danda.
Today you will be spending the day acclimatizing at Khongma Danda. You can either choose to relax or go on a hike to Khongma La, situated at an altitude of 3,890m/2,762ft. However, going on a day hike is highly recommended as you will better acclimatize before crossing high passes the next day.
The day hike begins with climbing stone steps, and the trail is lined with rhododendron trees. It takes around an hour to reach Khongma La Pass and enjoy the view from the pass. Retrace your steps back to Khongma Danda.
Overnight in Khongma Danda.
The trek to Dobate will be one of the trek's major highlights as you will be traversing high passes overlooking a stunning view. You will be ascending on a trail filled with rhododendron trees before reaching Khongma La, situated at an elevation of 3,890m/12,762ft. Khongma La rewards you with the stunning view of an astounding mountain like Makalu and Chamlang. Upon descending for a brief, you will climb up and walk on a ridge before reaching Sano Pokhari Danda. Enjoy the view of the Sano Pokhari Lake situated right below Sano Pokhari Danda. A trek on a steep and ascending trail takes you to Shipton La, located at an altitude of 4,229m/13,874ft. You will see fluttering prayer flags and mani walls with mantras in this pass.
Further, you will be descending to Kalo Pokhari Lake, which lies at 4,080m/13,386ft. Pilgrims pay a visit to this holy lake on the occasion of the Janai Purnima festival. Continue your trek to Keke La, situated at an elevation of 4,170m/13,681ft. Enjoy the view of snowcapped mountain ranges from Keke La. A walk on a descending trail through a stunning valley will take you to Dobate.
Overnight in Dobate.
Yangle Kharka
Enjoy a pleasant trek on a descending trail through a forest filled with rhododendron, redstarts, minivets, and pine trees. The trail steeply descends towards Barun River through the forest, and you need to be extra cautious if there is snow. Enjoy the view of snowy mountains like Chanlang and Tutse. Upon trekking on an ascending trail, you will reach Themathang Kharka. On the way will also come across an impressive waterfall. Moreover, you will be crossing a wooden bridge, walking on rugged terrain before reaching Yangle Kharka.
Overnight in Yangle Kharka.
You will be walking on a descending trail and trekking past the river and small monastery. Enjoy a walk through a jungle and bask in the gorgeous view of dramatic cliffs on the other side. Also, you will see astounding views of the mountain ranges. It will be a pleasant trek in comparatively flat land. Walk past pastures of Jhak Khark, Yak Kharka, and Merek before reaching Lagmale Kharka. Trek past Mani walls and watch prayer flags flutter with a breeze.
Overnight in Langmale Kharka.
Today you will be spending a day acclimatizing at Langmale Kharka. You can either choose to relax or go on a hike to a nearby hill. Going on a hike will help you acclimatize to the rising altitude better, and your guide can suggest the best.
Overnight in Langmale Kharka.
The mountain scenery along the trail is amazing, and mountains like Peak 6, Peak 7, and Peak 4 will greet you. You will be walking on ascending trail gradually and trekking past a river. Each bend on the trail will open up to a stunning mountain view. You will be trekking past boulders, hiking on a sandy trail, and traversing few steeper sections. The marvelous view of Peak 4 appears before entering a wide flat area of Sherson.
Overnight in Sherson.
Makalu Base Camp
Today you will be trekking to the Makalu Base Camp, the 5th highest mountain on earth. Also, you will see Makalu along with its formidable face featuring icefalls, crevasses, jagged edges, and seracs. You will be trekking on the trail with many bends. Further, the trail descends, and you will be crossing the river before reaching the Makalu Base Camp situated at 4,900m or 16,076ft. It is also the highest point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Makalu dominates the skyline of base camp, and you will also notice Tibetan snowcocks, black redstarts, hill pigeons, and others here.
Overnight in Makalu Base Camp.
Makalu Base camp is a barren and rocky area with a big Barun Glacier beyond it. You will be spending a day in Makalu Base Camp and exploring the area. If you want some easier options, then go on a hike to see the lakes beyond the Makalu Base Camp. Also, you can climb a short ridge right above the base camp marked by prayer flags.
If you want some adventure, go on a day hike to the ridge that overlooks the awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views. Cross the river and hike on a rugged ascending trail to the vantage point overlooking mountain ranges. Savor the up-close view of mountains like Makalu, Peak 7, Peak 6, and Peak 4. Also, you will see mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and others. After basking in the marvelous mountain views, retrace your steps back to the base camp. A strenuous hike on a steep trail and an altitude of over 5,000 meters will be an added challenge.
Overnight in Makalu Base Camp.
Today you will be leaving for Yangle Kharka and hiking back on the same route as before. You will be descending and trekking past Sherson, Langale Kharka, Merek before reaching Yangri Kharka. Moreover, you will be trekking through dense pine forest to Yangle Khara. Enjoy the scenic mountain view en route.
Overnight in Yangle Kharka.
Enjoy a pleasant walk following the meandering river to Themathang. You will be trekking on a trail lined with rhododendron trees and a crossing bridge adorned with prayer flags before reaching Themathang. Traverse the landslide area with extra caution, and you will come across an area with a narrow path. Bask in the amazing mountain view and ascend on a steep trail through the rhododendron forest. A trek on a rugged terrain past lush green forest and valley will take you to Dobate.
Overnight in Dobate.
Savor the breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga on your trek to Khongma Danda. You will be traversing high passes and taking the same route as before. Ascend to Keke La Pass and gradually make your way to Shipton La, also known as Tutu La Pass. Continue the trek overlooking mountain views on your way to Sano Pokhari Danda that holds religious significance for the Hindus. Moreover, you will be trekking to Khongma La, which is marked by a mani wall. Upon descending stone steps, you will reach Khongma. You might get a chance to see blood pheasant roaming in the snow between the rhododendron bushes in Khongma.
Overnight in Khongma.
You will mostly be walking on a descending trail. Enjoy a hike through a rhododendron forest and trek past giant rock and prayer flags marking Unshisa Pass. Continue your trek to Dhara with an eatery serving food and refreshments. It is a popular stopover among trekkers. Further, hike through dense forest filled with rhododendron and magnolia trees. A trek in spring is colorful with rhododendron blooms. Across a river lies the Sherpa village of Tashigaon.
Overnight in Tashigaon.
Retrace your steps back to Seduwa from Tashigaon, with which you will also be exiting the Makalu Barun National Park. Climb down the stone steps and cross the bridge, followed by a jungle walk through dense forest. Moreover, you will be crossing several bridges. The forest is home to many birds, so you will hear birds chirping during the trek. Also, you will see farms dotted on the hillside, and watch out for cardamom plants. Upon trekking past Mani walls and descending stone stairs, you will reach Seduwa.
Overnight in Seduwa.
Start the day with a hike past a lively village and giant bamboo groves. Continue your trek on a meandering trail to the Arun River. Upon crossing the suspension bridge, you will get to see a beautiful landscape of rural Nepal. Further, you will be trekking on big stone steps and following the descending river. The trail ascends and descends and passes through a lush green forest to the village of Num.
Overnight in Num.
Tumlingtar Airport
Take a scenic drive to Tumlingtar on the meandering hilly roads of Nepal. Moreover, you will see hillside villages, terrace farms along with the stunning view of snowy mountains and verdant hills. Rest and relax before leaving for Kathmandu.
Overnight in Tumlingtar.
Today you will be taking a domestic flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. Enjoy the stunning view of the Himalayan landscape along with snowy mountain ranges and verdant hills from the comfort of your aircraft. After reaching Kathmandu, you will check into a hotel. Relax after a tiring trek, or you can explore the bustling city of Kathmandu and stroll in the streets of Thamel.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
The day of saying goodbye has arrived. A representative from Third Rock Adventures will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport around 3 hours before your scheduled international flight. You will be flying out of Kathmandu with beautiful memories to cherish for a lifetime.
The best time to do Makalu Base Camp Trek is spring (March to May) and autumn (mid –September to November). The sky is mostly clear, and you will get to enjoy the uninterrupted mountain views. Also, the weather is dry, which makes it good weather to trek. The days will be warm, while nights can be chilly. All these features make spring and autumn the best time of the year to trek, and unlike other trekking regions, you will find less crowd.
When trekking in spring, the trail will be covered with rhododendron blooms which add color to the forest. Also, you will see wildflowers blooming as well. There lies the chance of an occasional shower in spring, and also, the haze might cover the mountain view. The most popular month for trekking is autumn when the monsoon clouds would have clear the weather. You can enjoy the astounding view of mountains, and the chances of rainfall are the least.
Winter trek are least popular, and you need to be prepared with the proper gear to withstand harsh cold. Also, the tea houses or the lodges in this trekking route aren’t well equipped. The high passes might be closed due to snow. It will be best not to trek in the monsoon as flights might be canceled due to bad weather, and clouds might cover the stunning view. Also, the risk of injuries increases with a trek on a slippery trail.
Makalu Base Camp Trek is a moderate to difficult level trek and recommended for experienced trekkers. It is one of the best wilderness treks in Nepal, filled with adventure.
You will attain the maximum altitude of 4,900m/16,076ft at Makalu Base Camp. Moreover, you will be crossing mountain passes like Shipton La at 4,229m/13,874ft, Khongma La 3,890m/12,762ft, and Keke La 4,170m/13,681ft. Further, you will be trekking past holy Kalo Pokhari Lake, located at 4,080m/13,386ft.
It would help if you were physically fit as it is a physically demanding high-altitude trek. You will be trekking in rugged terrain with steep ascends and descends. Experienced trekkers will enjoy this trek, and previous experience of trekking at high altitudes will be advantageous. In a day, you will be trekking for a maximum of 7 hours and a minimum of 3 hours. On average, you will be walking for around 5 to 6 hours daily.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Altitude Map
Images: Mark Holi
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