Makalu Base Camp Trek – 18 Days Himalayan Adventure

Makalu Base Camp Trek with panoramic views of Mount Makalu and the eastern Himalayas

Key Points

Start At

Kathmandu, Nepal (1,400 m)

Duration

18 Days

Trekking Grade

Challenging / High Altitude Trek

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu and Local Tea Houses during the trek

Max. Altitude

Makalu Base Camp – 4,870 m / 15,978 ft

Activity

Trekking, Mountain Exploration, Cultural Experience

Meals

B.L.D

Best Season

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)

End At

Kathmandu, Nepal (1,400 m)

Trip Overview

Explore the Remote Makalu Region

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an 18-day Himalayan adventure through one of Nepal’s most remote and spectacular trekking regions. Far from the busy trails of Everest and Annapurna, this journey offers dramatic mountain scenery, traditional villages, rich cultural heritage, and an exceptional wilderness experience. The route leads toward the base of Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world. The adventure begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a drive to Num. From here, the trail winds through traditional Rai and Sherpa villages, where you can experience local customs, welcoming communities, and the unique lifestyle of people living in the eastern Himalayas.

Diverse Landscapes and Natural Beauty

One of the most remarkable features of this journey is its incredible natural diversity. The trail passes through Makalu Barun National Park, an area renowned for its rich biodiversity and pristine mountain environment. As you gain altitude, the landscape gradually changes from lush subtropical forests filled with rhododendrons and bamboo to alpine meadows, rocky valleys, glaciers, and rugged high-altitude terrain. The changing scenery makes every stage of the adventure unique. You will cross suspension bridges, walk beside cascading rivers, and follow remote mountain trails surrounded by impressive Himalayan landscapes. The peaceful environment also provides excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

Spectacular Himalayan Mountain Views

Throughout the route, trekkers can enjoy magnificent views of Makalu, Chamlang, Baruntse, Mera Peak, and numerous other snow-covered mountains. As the trail approaches higher elevations, the surrounding peaks become increasingly dramatic. Reaching Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m) is the major highlight of the expedition. Standing beneath the towering south face of Mount Makalu creates an unforgettable sense of achievement. The remote setting, powerful mountain scenery, and peaceful surroundings make the destination particularly rewarding for experienced trekkers.

An Off-the-Beaten-Path Himalayan Adventure

This journey is ideal for experienced trekkers who want to explore a quieter and less-developed region of Nepal. Compared with more popular trekking routes, the trail offers greater solitude and a stronger connection with nature and local communities. The combination of challenging trails, diverse landscapes, traditional villages, rich biodiversity, and spectacular mountain views makes this 18-day adventure an excellent choice for travelers seeking something beyond the usual Himalayan routes. From the lower forests to the high alpine wilderness, every section reveals a different side of eastern Nepal and creates lasting memories of an extraordinary mountain expedition.

Highlights

  • Trek to the remote and beautiful Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

  • Stunning views of Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the fifth highest mountain in the world

  • Explore Makalu Barun National Park with diverse flora and fauna

  • Experience traditional Sherpa and Rai villages along the trail

  • Scenic flight to Tumlingtar and dramatic Arun Valley landscapes

  • Crossing high mountain passes and alpine valleys

  • One of Nepal’s least crowded and most adventurous trekking routes

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m / 4593 ft)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you can relax or explore the nearby streets of the city. Kathmandu is rich in culture, ancient temples, and vibrant markets. In the evening, your trekking guide will meet you for a detailed briefing about the Makalu Base Camp Trek and check your trekking equipment for the journey ahead.

📍 Starting Point

Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Kathmandu Hotel (1,400 m)

⏱️ Duration

30–45 minutes drive

📏 Total Distance

Airport transfer only

⚠️ Important Note

Check your trekking equipment and travel documents carefully. Kathmandu is the best place to purchase or rent any missing gear before beginning the Makalu Base Camp trekking adventure.
Day 2: Fly Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num (1560m / 5118 ft)
Today we take a scenic domestic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal. During the flight you may enjoy views of hills and Himalayan peaks. After landing, we continue with a beautiful drive through rural villages, terraced fields, and forested hills toward Num. The village sits on a ridge overlooking the Arun River valley and serves as the starting point of the trekking journey.

📍 Starting Point

Kathmandu (1,400 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Num (1,560 m)

⏱️ Duration

50 minutes flight + 4–5 hours drive

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 75 km

⚠️ Important Note

Domestic flights may experience delays due to weather conditions. Keep essential items in your hand luggage and stay flexible with travel schedules in mountain regions.
Day 3: Trek Num to Seduwa (1500m / 4921 ft)
The trek begins with a steep descent from Num toward the Arun River. After crossing a suspension bridge, the trail gradually climbs through forests and small villages until reaching Seduwa. This village lies within the Makalu Barun National Park area and offers a peaceful environment surrounded by green hills and farmland.

📍 Starting Point

Num (1,560 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Seduwa (1,500 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

The trail includes steep sections during the descent and climb. Walk carefully and maintain a steady pace while adjusting to the trekking environment.
Day 4: Trek Seduwa to Tashigaon (2100m / 6890 ft)
Today’s trek continues through beautiful forest trails and traditional villages. The path gradually climbs higher, offering scenic views of hills and farmland. After several hours of trekking through peaceful surroundings, we arrive at Tashigaon, the last major settlement before entering the higher alpine region of the Makalu area.

📍 Starting Point

Seduwa (1,500 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Tashigaon (2,100 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 10 km

⚠️ Important Note

Ensure you carry enough drinking water and sun protection. The trail gradually climbs and requires steady walking to maintain energy.
Day 5: Trek Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3500m / 11482 ft)
Today is a challenging day as the trail climbs steeply through dense forests and mountain terrain. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more alpine with beautiful views of surrounding peaks. After a long ascent, we reach Khongma Danda, a high ridge that provides impressive mountain scenery.

📍 Starting Point

Tashigaon (2,100 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 9 km

⚠️ Important Note

This section involves a significant altitude gain. Walk slowly, take regular breaks, and stay well hydrated to support proper acclimatization.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Khongma Danda (3500m / 11482 ft)
Today is an important rest and acclimatization day. You may take short hikes around the ridge to help your body adjust to the altitude while enjoying beautiful views of surrounding mountains. Proper acclimatization helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness during the higher sections of the trek.

📍 Starting Point

Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

⏱️ Duration

Optional exploration

📏 Total Distance

Short hikes and rest

⚠️ Important Note

Light walking is recommended during acclimatization days. Avoid strenuous activity and drink plenty of water to help your body adapt to the high altitude.
Day 7: Trek Khongma Danda to Dobate (3650m / 11975 ft)
The trail today crosses several high passes including Shipton La before descending through alpine landscapes toward Dobate. Along the route you may enjoy spectacular views of Himalayan peaks and rugged mountain terrain. After descending through rocky trails and forest areas, we arrive at Dobate for the night.

📍 Starting Point

Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dobate (3,650 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 11 km

⚠️ Important Note

High passes can be windy and cold. Carry warm clothing and follow your guide carefully while crossing the higher sections of the trail.
Day 8: Trek Dobate to Yangri Kharka (3600m / 11811 ft)
Today the trail descends gradually through rhododendron forests and scenic valleys. The route follows the Barun River valley with beautiful views of surrounding mountains and waterfalls. After a pleasant day of trekking, we reach the open grazing fields of Yangri Kharka.

📍 Starting Point

Dobate (3,650 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Yangri Kharka (3,600 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

Forest trails may become muddy after rainfall. Wear proper trekking shoes and walk carefully to avoid slipping on uneven ground.
Day 9: Trek Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka (4410m / 14469 ft)
Today we continue along the Barun Valley as the scenery becomes more dramatic and alpine. The trail gradually climbs through open valleys surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. After several hours of trekking through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, we reach Langmale Kharka.

📍 Starting Point

Yangri Kharka (3,600 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Langmale Kharka (4,410 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 9 km

⚠️ Important Note

Higher elevations mean colder temperatures and thinner air. Walk slowly and drink enough water to stay comfortable during the climb.
Day 10: Trek Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4870m / 15977 ft)
Today we reach the highlight of the trek. The trail leads across wide glacial valleys toward Makalu Base Camp. From here you can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world, along with other Himalayan peaks.

📍 Starting Point

Langmale Kharka (4,410 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–5 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 8 km

⚠️ Important Note

Altitude is very high at base camp. Walk slowly and stay warm to remain comfortable during your stay in this remarkable Himalayan environment.
Day 11: Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp (4870m / 15977 ft)
Today you can explore the surroundings of Makalu Base Camp. The area offers breathtaking views of Mount Makalu (8,485 m), glaciers, and dramatic mountain landscapes. It is a perfect opportunity for photography and enjoying the beauty of the Himalayas.

📍 Starting Point

Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

⏱️ Duration

Optional exploration

📏 Total Distance

Short hikes around base camp

⚠️ Important Note

Weather conditions can change quickly in high mountain areas. Carry warm layers and follow your guide’s instructions during exploration near the base camp.
Day 12: Trek Makalu Base Camp → Yangri Kharka (3600m / 11811 ft)
After enjoying the spectacular views at Makalu Base Camp, the journey begins back down the Barun Valley. The trail gradually descends through wide alpine landscapes with impressive views of surrounding peaks and glaciers. Walking downhill makes the trek more comfortable as you return toward greener valleys and yak grazing fields. By afternoon you will reach Yangri Kharka, where you will stay overnight in a peaceful mountain setting.

📍 Starting Point

Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Yangri Kharka (3,600 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

Descending trails can still be tiring on the knees. Walk carefully on rocky sections and maintain a steady pace while enjoying the changing landscapes of the Barun Valley.
Day 13: Trek Yangri Kharka → Dobate (3650m / 11975 ft)
Today the trail continues through scenic valleys and rhododendron forests as you retrace your route toward Dobate. The path includes gentle climbs and descents while offering beautiful views of rivers, waterfalls, and surrounding hills. The peaceful environment and fresh mountain air make this section very enjoyable for trekkers returning from higher altitudes.

📍 Starting Point

Yangri Kharka (3,600 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dobate (3,650 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

Forest trails can sometimes be slippery after rain or snow. Use trekking poles if available and follow the guide carefully along narrow sections.
Day 14: Trek Dobate → Khongma Danda (3500m / 11482 ft)
The trail climbs back toward Khongma Danda, passing through beautiful alpine landscapes and high mountain ridges. Along the way you may again cross the scenic passes that connect the valleys of the Makalu region. The panoramic mountain views from the ridge make this day particularly rewarding.

📍 Starting Point

Dobate (3,650 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 10 km

⚠️ Important Note

Weather in high ridge areas can be windy and cold. Carry warm layers and stay close to the group while crossing exposed sections.
Day 15: Trek Khongma Danda → Tashigaon (2100m / 6890 ft)
Today you descend from the high alpine zone into greener landscapes filled with forests and traditional villages. The trail leads through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests before reaching Tashigaon. This welcoming village offers a comfortable resting place after the long descent.

📍 Starting Point

Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Tashigaon (2,100 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 11 km

⚠️ Important Note

Long downhill sections can be demanding for the legs. Trekking poles can help reduce pressure on your knees during the descent.
Day 16: Trek Tashigaon → Num (1560m / 5118 ft)
The trek continues through beautiful farmland, forest paths, and small villages. You will cross suspension bridges and follow the trail back toward the ridge-top village of Num. As the trek approaches its end, you can enjoy the peaceful rural scenery and friendly local communities along the way.

📍 Starting Point

Tashigaon (2,100 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Num (1,560 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

Be careful while crossing suspension bridges and steep trails near the river. Maintain balance and walk at a comfortable pace.
Day 17: Drive Num → Tumlingtar and Fly to Kathmandu (1400m / 4593 ft)
Today you leave the trekking trail and travel by vehicle from Num to Tumlingtar through scenic hills and rural villages. After reaching the airport, you will take a short domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in the city after completing the Makalu Base Camp adventure.

📍 Starting Point

Num (1,560 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Kathmandu (1,400 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–5 hours drive + 50 minutes flight

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 75 km drive

⚠️ Important Note

Domestic flights in mountain regions may occasionally be delayed due to weather conditions. Keep your schedule flexible and stay prepared for possible adjustments.
Day 18: Final Departure from Kathmandu (1400m / 4593 ft)
Today marks the end of your Makalu Base Camp Trek adventure in Nepal. According to your international flight schedule, our team will transfer you from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport. You may spend the remaining time relaxing at the hotel or exploring nearby markets for last-minute souvenirs. We hope you leave Nepal with wonderful memories of the Himalayas, beautiful landscapes, and warm local hospitality.

📍 Starting Point

Kathmandu Hotel (1,400 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400 m)

⏱️ Duration

30–45 minutes drive

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 6 km

⚠️ Important Note

Please confirm your international flight schedule in advance and arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure to complete immigration and security procedures smoothly.

Package Include

  • Airport pickup and drop-off services in Kathmandu

  • 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast

  • Domestic flight Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu

  • All ground transportation during the trek

  • Makalu Barun National Park entry permit

  • Makalu Restricted Area trekking permit

  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide

  • Experienced porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers)

  • 3 meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Tea house accommodation during trekking days

  • Basic first aid kit carried by guide

  • Government taxes and service charges

Package Exclude

  • International flights to and from Nepal

  • Nepal visa fees

  • Travel insurance (mandatory for high altitude trekking)

  • Personal trekking equipment and gear

  • Extra meals in Kathmandu

  • Alcoholic and soft drinks during the trek

  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and internet

  • Tips for trekking guide and porter

  • Any additional costs caused by weather delays or unforeseen ev

Equ‌ipment & Trek​king Gears

Clothing

  • Down jacket or warm insulated jacket

  • Waterproof trekking jacket and pants

  • Thermal base layers

  • Trekking shirts and lightweight pants

  • Warm gloves and wool hat

  • Trekking socks

Footwear

  • Comfortable trekking boots

  • Camp shoes or sandals

  • Gaiters (optional)

Trekking Gear

  • Backpack (40–60 L)

  • Sleeping bag (rated -10°C or lower)

  • Trekking poles

  • Headlamp with extra batteries

  • Water bottles or hydration system

Personal Items

  • Sunglasses with UV protection

  • Sunscreen and lip balm

  • Personal medications

  • Camera or phone for photos

Route Map

No altitude chart data found.

All Inclusive Price

Everything you need, with clear and secure booking.

  • Instant Booking
  • Secure Payments
  • No Hidden Costs

Transparent Pricing • Fast Confirmation • Trusted Support

US$ 1,649 PP
Save US$ 501 per person
Regular:US$ 2,150
Price range:US$ 1,649 - US$ 2,150
Duration:18 Days

Group-Size Discounts

Pricing is based on your group size. We do not add others to your group.

No. of PersonsGroup TypePrice per Person
2-4 Pax Small Group US$ 1,749 Book
5-9 Pax Best Value US$ 1,699 Book
10+ Pax Super Group US$ 1,649 Book
Dates & discounts are applied in the next step.

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