Makalu Base Camp Trek
 

Makalu Base Camp Trek

  • Transportation
    Flights / Jeep
  • Group Size
    1 -10
  • Destination
    Nepal
  • Altitude
    4870 m
  • Duration
    18 Days
  • Activities
    Trekking in Nepal
  • Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Difficulty
    Challenging
  • Accomodation
    Hotels, Teahouses and Tents

Overview

Respected among the hardest climbing territory, Makalu situated at 8000m which is the most phenomenal blend of excellence and intense. This territory stays without explored due to geographic qualities. One can pick the Makalu base camp trek utilizing a tea-house trek outline.

In this trek, one can go through the wild and crude trails and can see the vegetation over the ways. Makalu grouped of blooming plants with 3000 species, 440 types of feathered creatures and 75 types of animals. Climbing upon the ways, individuals can locate a chance to take a gander at the lofty and heavenly mountain vistas. Dictated by the ways, they can get the chance to see the gorgeous towns.

The climatic state of the zone is overwhelming snow and rains. This territory has climbed as the best option amid the long stretches of October and November. An individual can watch the excellent aspects of the character.

Considered as one of the hardest trekking zones, Makalu Base Camp Trek is the uncommon blend of extreme and magnificence. This zone is still under-investigated of its geological highlights. Indeed, the unbelievable Edmund Hillary bombed twice to trek this pinnacle zone.

Amid the trek, one can go through the crude and wild trails. It can see the astonishing varied vegetation along the trails. Rising up on the trails, one can get a chance to see the glorious and celestial mountain vistas. The waterway valleys and the massifs of Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse. Slipping on the trails, one can get the chance to see the delightful towns where the indigenous gathering lives like Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Lhomu. The climatic state of this district is overwhelming downpours and snow. This locale additionally offers climbing as the best choice amid the long periods of October and November. Let, Info Nepal Tours and Treks to serve you with its superb administrations and the accomplished and also qualified working staffs, aides and doormen.

Brief Itinerary of Makalu Base Camp Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m)
Day 2: Makalu Base Camp Trek Permit Preparation and Sightseeing
Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, Drive to Num (1,560 m)
Day 4: Trek from Num to Seduwa (1,500 m)
Day 5: Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,100 m)
Day 6: Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3,500 m)
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Khongma Danda (3,500 m)
Day 8: Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate (3,068 m)
Day 9: Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka (3,557 m)
Day 10: Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka (4,410 m)
Day 11: Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)
Day 12: Full day exploration of Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)
Day 13: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka (3,557 m)
Day 14: Trek from Yangri Kharka to Dobate (3,068 m)
Day 15: Trek from Dobate to Danda Kharka (2,900 m)
Day 16: Trek from Danda Kharka to Seduwa (1,500 m)
Day 17: Trek from Seduwa to Num (1,560 m), then Drive to Tumlingtar
Day 18: Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Itinerary

DAY 01

Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m)

The much awaited adventurous trip of yours in Nepal begins with a flight from your home country to the only airport of Nepal, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Kathmandu lies at an altitude of 1400 meters where you become a witness lively city experience, vibrant traditional structures welcomes you with cool breeze. Enjoying great Himalayan views, you land TIA, Kathmandu.

After you clear formalities related to immigrations, you will be met and greeted by our travel representative. The representative will receive you and transfer you to a renowned hotel in Kathmandu. You will be driven through busy streets of Kathmandu. The buildings in Kathmandu represents ancient architecture of Nepal. Everything in Kathmandu can be related to traditions and culture of the city.

A city with infrastructures symbolizing perfect blend of history and modernity. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Destination
    Kathmandu
  • Altitude
    1400 m
DAY 02

Makalu Base Camp Trek Permit Preparation and Sightseeing

The second day is your discovery day in Kathmandu. You will discover the cultural symbols, monuments and majestic traditional heritages of Kathmandu valley. Most of the UNESCO listed world heritages sites of Nepal are located in Kathmandu. You will embark on a journey that marks the sightseeing of those precious heritages.

The sacred and very holy temple of the world, Pashupatinath welcomes its devotees with blessings and blissful experiences in the large temple area. You can see Hindus performing their cremation rituals on the banks of Bagmati River. Then, you approach towards huge stupa of Buddhists, Boudhanath Stupa. It is one of the biggest stupas in the world. The eye pleasing scenes of prayer flags flying, and monks performing their rituals stand as a heart skipping moment.

You can try authentic Nepali cuisines. The most famous is Thakali Khana, a set of rice, lentils and other Nepali food items. The very popular Nepali snack is Momo. Momo are authentic Nepali – Tibetan dumplings. Kathmandu is also known as the city of temples. So, you will hear the prayers, sounds of bells and feel the flow of street lamps in the evening. The atmosphere is very magical.

Stroll around the ancient palace areas in Kathmandu i.e. Kathmandu Durbar Square / Basantapur. The newari architecture on either sides of ways will excite you. This place is very famous of having Jhonche Street, a very tourist bustling street in the mid-60s, 70s and early-80s Hippie era. Then, you start preparing for the trekking either shopping accessories or managing equipment since the afternoon.

Double checking the packing requirements, obtaining permits for Makalu Base Camp trek, communication with the guide and renting trek gears is very essential. In the evening, you can enjoy terrace top dinner and see the night ambience of Kathmandu city. It is as vibrant as the streets of Thamel turn lively by the evening. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Destination
    Kathmandu
  • Altitude
    1400 m
DAY 03

An early morning Flight-day from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, Scenic Drive to Num (1,560 m)

You will enjoy an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. The flight scenes are very scenic, The Himalayan views is totally breathtaking. After you land in Tumlingtar, you will be driven from Tumlingtar to Num which is almost 1,560 meters above the sea level. The hilly route with terraced field aside and you will reach Num which is a beautiful village.

The driving route flows alongside the Arun River. You will get the glimpses of rural Nepali life. After you arrive Num, you will be welcomed with Nepali traditional rituals by the teahouse. Overnight at a teahouse in Num.

  • Destination
    Num
  • Altitude
    1560 m
DAY 04

Trek from Num to Seduwa (1,500 m)

The fourth day is the day when we start trekking from Num. The ascent is a bit challenging on this day. The ascending trek route follows through lush forests, terraced farmlands, and cultural villages. Sherpas are the people who represent a dominant ethnic group in the region. We will see the prayer flags all around fluttering to spread the prayers of peace and harmony of the world.

There are mani walls, which are stone walls where prayers are in-scripted. This tradition belongs to Buddhist culture. You will reach Seduwa after hours of trekking. The altitude of Seduwa is 1,500 meters. Your permits will be checked by a conservation office in the village. The evening you will enjoy Nepali cuisine. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Seduwa.

  • Destination
    Seduwa
  • Altitude
    1500 m
DAY 05

Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,100 m)

The fifth day trek begins from the small village of Seduwa following the deep trails leading into Makalu-Barun valley. The trail is full of rhododendron trees and oak trees on either sides, which makes the forest looks so vibrant. You occasionally wind up with beautiful waterfalls as well which increases the charm in the trek.

There are small villages like Manigaon which you pass by. Then you reach Tashigaon which is 2,100 meters above the sea level. This is the major village before you step into more rural trails. Unfold the beauty of such grand Himalayan ambience and overnight stay at a teahouse in Tashigaon.

  • Destination
    Tashigaon
  • Altitude
    2100 m
DAY 06

Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

The sixth day is a challenging day yet very rewarding. The trail again leads you through supernatural and lively dense forests. The air becomes thin, the temperature decreases, the oxygen level deduces and the landscapes become very rugged with the increase in altitude. Then, you open into Khongma Danda that welcomes you with gracious mountain views. You rest well and acclimatize for the high altitude days ahead under the starlit night sky.

  • Destination
    Khongma Danda
  • Altitude
    3500 m
DAY 07

Acclimatization Day in Khongma Danda (3,500 m)

This day is separated to rest well and acclimatize to adjust and adapt to the altitude. You can explore the nearby hiking spots, viewpoints and cultural heritages of that area. The seventh day, you not only relax but also understand the local traditional and cultural legacy by meeting the locals of that area. You hydrate and let your body make some adaption with the altitude.

The acclimatization day is essential in order to prevent consequences of altitude sickness. You can enjoy the sublimity of Himalayan ambience and serenity of the nature. Fold up your belongings and get ready for the wilderness. Enjoy local Nepali cuisine and overnight stay in Khongma Danda.

  • Destination
    Khongma Danda
  • Altitude
    3500 m
DAY 08

Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate (3,068 m)

The eight day walk is descend through the rigid rocky trails. You will cross the Kalo Pokhari which is also called the Black Lake and is considered very holy. The trail leads you through dense valleys passing by the breathtaking waterfalls on the way. The, you reach Dobate which is located 3,068 meters above the sea level. The term Dobate means a junction where two way differentiates.

The landscape features heighty cliffs, towering ridges and deep gorges. You can spend the evening nearby the river which gives you soothing and peaceful experiences. Overnight stay in Dobate.

 

  • Destination
    Dobate
  • Altitude
    3068 m
DAY 09

Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka (3,557 m)

This day you start trekking from Dobate ascending the uphill route alongside the soothing Barun River. You get encountered with lush forests and their unblemished surrounding. The open meadows welcome you with the great views of Yaks grazing on the pastures. This symbolizes your entry on to higher alpine terrain.

The cool and crisp air takes your breath away. By this, you will reach Yangri Kharka which is located at 3,557 meters above the sea level. Overnight in Yangri Kharka.

  • Destination
    Yangri Kharka
  • Altitude
    3557 m
DAY 10

Trek from Yangri Kharka (3557m) to Langmale Kharka (4410m)

The tenth day trek is a shorter one but has steep ascents. The destination Langmale Kharka is located in an amazing glacial valley. We will encounter with the great view of great southern face of Mount Makalu. The unfarmed fields also look very awe-inspiring. We need to lower down our pace in order to adjust with the altitude increment. Overnight stay in Langmale Kharka.

  • Destination
    Langmale Kharka
  • Altitude
    4410 m
DAY 11

Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

On one hand, the eleventh day is the rewarding day of the whole trip. But, it is challenging on the other hand. It is because we reach the ultimate destination Makalu Base Camp this day. Walking through glacial lakes, rocky ridges and stony cliffs we reach Makalu Base Camp which is located at 4,870 meters above the sea level.

Look towards the unparalleled views of Mount Everest, Mount Makalu and Mount Lhotse from very near. Soak up the views and drink it in as a forever memory. Capture photographs. Overnight stay at Makalu Base Camp.

  • Destination
    Makalu Base Camp
  • Altitude
    4870 m
DAY 12

Full day exploration of Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m)

This day is dedicated to exploring the Makalu Base Camp area on a full day basis. You have a whole day to trek to nearby hiking destinations, majestic viewpoints and areas from where you move closer to glaciers and great mountain views. Take photographs as much as you want as your memories. The dramatic landscapes, phenomenal trails and majestic peaks will be forever in your heart.

You can reflect on your once-in-a-lifetime journey when you get back to rest overnight at Makalu Base Camp.

  • Destination
    Makalu Base Camp
  • Altitude
    4870 m
DAY 13

Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka (3,557 m)

From the thirteenth day, you will begin the return journey. Descending the picturesque trails from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka takes you to 3,557 meters altitude. Through the vibrant villages and routes of Barun Valley the trek becomes less challenging as there is the decrease in altitude, but descending is not as easy as you think. The descent steeps can cause pain on the knee.

The views are stunning. Air becomes thicker and the environment seems more comfortable. By the afternoon, you will reach Yangri Kharka. Begin the return journey, descending through the Barun Valley. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Yangri Kharka.

  • Destination
    Yangri Kharka
  • Altitude
    3557 m
DAY 14

Trek from Yangri Kharka to Dobate (3,068 m)

We will continue descending from where we rested. The Himalayan pastures, grassland and open meadows leads us through alpine forests when trek starts to become more gentle. The deep valley views and mountains still follows us through our way. Overnight stay in Dobate at 3,068 meters altitude beside sublime riverside ambience.

  • Destination
    Dobate
  • Altitude
    3068 m
DAY 15

Trek from Dobate to Danda Kharka (2,900 m)

The unscathed route of 14th day leads us to Danda Kharka at 2,900 meters altitude. The views and perfect alpine setting offers super tranquil environment and soltitude. The route takes us through lush forests, smaller historical settlements and peaceful atmosphere. Overnight stay in Danda Kharka.

 

  • Destination
    Danda Kharka
  • Altitude
    2900 m
DAY 16

Trek from Danda Kharka (2900m) to Seduwa (1500m)

Descending further, following the steps we ascended few days back. You will encounter the familiar villages and villagers. The climate turns warmer, environment seems greener and the ambience feels more refreshing than of before days. The, you are back to Seduwa where the locals are very friendly and they welcome you to celebrate the success of your trek. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Seduwa.

  • Destination
    Seduwa
  • Altitude
    1500 m
DAY 17

Trek from Seduwa to Num (1560m), then Drive to Tumlingtar

This day is the final trek day as you get back to Num at 1,560 meters altitude. You will not stay there, rather you will enjoy a scenic jeep drive from Num to Tumlingtar. You will enjoy the picturesque drive which will bring you back to a major city. Enjoy the relaxation facilities at your hotel or lodge. Overnight stay in Tumlingtar reminiscing about the completed adventure.

  • Destination
    Tumlingtar
DAY 18

Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu (1400m)

The last day of your adventure, you will take a great scenic flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. If you get lucky with a window seat, it is most fascinating as you get the majestic views of great Himalayas of this very beautiful country. Get back to the domestic terminals of TIA, the busy and bustling city awaits you. Get transferred to the hotel, relax and take a good shower.

Rest of the day is all your to shop souvenirs and try street foods of Kathmandu. In the evening, we host you with a farewell dinner. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

  • Destination
    Kathmandu
  • Altitude
    1400 m

Includes/Excludes

What's included?

  • Airport arrival picks up and drops off by the private vehicle
  • Three-time Meal during the trek as per the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
  • Ground transportation covered on a cozy private vehicle as instructed by the itinerary
  • City tour in Kathmandu by a private vehicle
  • An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek Guide/Leader and assistant trek leader (10 trekkers: 1 assistant guide), Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Rented down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
  • All necessary paperwork, documentations, trekking permits.
  • Basic medical kit, or first aid box
  • All government and local service charges and taxes
  • Trekking certificate after the completion of the trek.

What’s excluded?

  • Nepalese visa fee
  • Excess baggage charge(s)
  • Private transportation except what is mentioned in the ‘service includes’ section
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or Tumlingtar because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason like natural disaster and your own problems) than the scheduled itinerary Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Trekking equipment
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, wifi fees, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)
  • Urgent need of porter / horse / helper for personal use.
  • Extra Transportation for the person who leave early from the group.
  • Arrival and departure flight tickets.
  • Rescue or evacuation cost, for emergency.

Useful Info

Packing list for Makalu Base Camp trek

  • Trekking bag, large enough to fit all your requirements
  • Regular medicine prescribed by the doctor
  • A windproof jacket
  • Basic toiletries such as: toilet paper, sanitizer, soap, face wash, shampoo, towels, toothpaste, toothbrush, body spray, lip care etc.
  • Sunglasses and sun protection cream
  • Trekking shoes with good grip and multiple pair of socks
  • Raincoat is a necessity, a torch light, trekking pole, water purifiers, power bank
  • Abundant inner wears.
  • 4- 5 passport sized photographs
  • Thermos / Water bottle ( min/max. 1 liters )
  • Mini bag for daily purpose, to keep energy bars, chargers, extra batteries
  • Important identifying documents
  • Cash in hand

Cultural relevance of Makalu Base Camp trek

The Makalu Base Camp is the journey that include the remote eastern cultural richness providing the deep tradition of the local communities living there. The beauty of urban Hindu-Buddhist fusion community of rai and Sherpa is beautifully observed. We can see agricultural lifestyle cultivating millet, barley and potatoes to maintain local Rai community lifestyle who live in lower Arun valley. The festivals, rituals and village of two different religion add the details and scene in the tour.

The Buddhist philosophy influenced Sherpa community reflect the Tibetan Buddhism with prayer flags carved mani stones and prayer wheels in the monasteries where they perform puja. The cultural aspect of the journey shows the traditional stone houses and ancient practices with untouched modernity. The visitor see the spiritual ritual of Rai and Sherpa performed in order to make the passage safe to reach the destination. The Makalu base camp journey is unforgettable with the beauty full of nature and breathtaking view of mountain with the cultural legacy.

Traditional livelihood

The traditional livelihood of the Makalu base camp shows the Himalayan environment, altitude, remoteness and the cultural practices of the communities. The terraced farming add beauty in view and is the main source of local authentic food. The animal husbandry is semi-nomadic with yak, sheep and dzopas which provide wool, milk, meat and transportation.

The local crats like yak wool in blanket, carpet and clothes shows the creativity of Sherpa and Rai women. The local products are available for the visitors to buy and take it as the memory of the place. The basket and pottery made with the bamboo and clay is use in daily use reflecting the traditional practices.

Festivals and rituals

The Makalu base camp is the place the shows the breathtaking scene with deep culture, festivals, rituals of Rai, Sherpa and Limbu communities. The rituals and festivals add the spiritual richness of different religion with the beauty of nature in the journey. The festivals of lower valley Rai community are Sakela celebrated by Rai people which is harvest festival with drumming to honor for the ancestors involving the rhythmic dances.

Udhauli and Ubhauli is the Limbu festival marking season udhauli in winter, ubhauli in summer where villager perform traditional dance and offer prayer for prosperity. The losar is celebrated February and march with masked danced offering the butter lamp. The journey shows the beauty of Buddhist and Hindu reflecting the harmony between the people in Himalayas.

Mythical connection

The Makalu region deeply shows the religious mythology and the local belief making the landscape mythical and divine. The name of mountain Makalu is derived from Sanskrit word Maha-Kala, a nickname of shiva the Hindu god of destruction. There are different spirits which Sherpa and Rai community believe that listen problem of the community and help them to live safely.

The Rai community people mundum tradition describe Makalu as the mother mountain paired with Everest as father. The Makalu region is not only destination lake and forest but also gives the importance to spiritual thought and believe with the view of peak.

Ethnic diversity and local communities

The Makalu base camp provide the visitor the beauty of untouched nature with its cultural importance in the daily life. The cultural root of the local eastern Nepal showing the Arun valley also giving the knowledge about harvest festivals honoring the nature sprits who protect the life. The handmade crafts in Rai community and the thangka painting in Sherpa area add dept in the local culture. The Nepali language is common but the different community have their own language which is still spoken in the village.

Geographical relevance of Manaslu Base Camp trek

The Makalu base camp is the destination which holds the prestigious Himalayan landscape offering the heavenly beauty and ecological richness. The base camp located at 4,870 meters the gate way to the mount Makalu (8,485 meters) known as the fifth tallest which lies in the Makalu-barun national park protecting the biodiversity. The breathtaking view base camp which lies near the barun glacier that provide the straight view of icefalls and crevasses.

The place shows the Himalayan range beauty with the rock formation shaped by tectonic uplifts and erosion. The destination passes through highland such as Yangri Kharka 3,557 meters and langmale kharka 4,410 meters which shows the traditional way of living in the highland.

The journey contains the rough trails and route with the snowcapped beauty and is remote with less development which lies near China-Nepal border which preserves the untouched nature offering the unfiltered Himalayan beauty. Lastly, we can observe the high-altitude ecosystems, biodiversity and isolation making the place must visit to observe the old way of living and the tradition.

Biodiversity hotspot

The place gives the heavenly view of the forest with diverse vegetation in subtropical forest. we can see the oak, maple and bamboo. We can see more than 20 species of rhododendrons blooming in spring. There are different medical plants which are used for the traditional way of treatment. There is different animal which are endangered like snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, wild yak.

In the journey we can see verity of species of butterfly and reptiles which add the beauty in geography and gives the beautiful touch in the journey and make us known about the species. The journey gives you the entertaining wildlife safari with the amid towering peaks and the rear animal located in the place.

Remote and isolated terrain

The Makalu base camp is located in the eastern part of Nepal which gives the great experience in the journey with the traditional routes and limited structure where we can live during the visit. The place required permits in restricted area to place to see the beauty and unlock new experience of the journey. The surrounding gives the untouched wildness with the les number of crowd and get the peaceful vibes of the river and forest.

There is limited house with lack of facility like no roads and sparse settlement which add the uncrowded beauty of the Himalayas. The place is challenging and contain high passes and rugged trails which adds adventure in journey. This place offers us limited facilities with clear environment and untouched landscape and wild ecosystem.

Alpine and glacial landforms

The Makalu camp contains beautiful barun glacier which contains ice rivers providing the water for river in the valley. The U-shaped valley which was carved by ancient glacial movement gives the place additional beauty. The high-altitude Makalu area features the icefall from the where the glacier melts and provides water. The area having the dynamic landscape the lower part contains the alpine forest with the flow of the river and the high-altitude place contain glacier which shows the coldness and the natural water.

All the eastern region beauty is served by the Makalu base journey with the familiar environment and warm welcome greetings showing their culture. The region serves the living feature for visitor to investigate the way climate change and the impact made in the alpine environment.

Rain-shadow effect

The base camp region experiences rain-shadow due to its weather pattern of the Himalayan. The monsoon seasons encounter the rise and cool temperature of southern slopes from the air which came from the Bay of Bengal. The Makalu-barun valley cross high ridges and become dry and crate the alpine environment. The effect produces clearer skies and more extreme temperature variation with the compare to the southern Himalayas.

The climate daily fluctuates and reach 25 degrees in the high-altitude valley near the base camp. The effect that the journey gets add the geographical beauty in the place and make the place breathtaking and unforgettable.

Architectural relevance of Makalu Base Camp trek

The Makalu base camp trek provide us the traditional and old architecture environment in the Himalayan landscape. The place clearly shows us the traditional vernacular design with the functional structure. The lower altitude village like seduwa and tashigaon contains the stone houses with the flat roofs and traditional wood craved balcony using the ancient technique using timber and local slate. The house has feature of thick walls is made for insulation, Buddhist prayer flags, wood carving and small window to make the house warm.

The route is rough and contain wooden plank pool showing the local solution for the rugged trains. The tea houses are made with the practical design to provide good facility with solar panels and multi-level sleeping quarters. Throughout the journey we can observe the Buddhist stupas, prayer wheels and old traditional mugal style architecture which make the place unique and add beauty in the remote region.

Monastery architecture

The Makalu base camp journey not only provide us the breathtaking view of nature but also shows the traditional Buddhist architecture which holds the spiritual values. These structures hold different features like white washed stone wall, wooden carved door frame which hold the Buddhist symbol and golden pagoda style roofs.

The monastery is blown with butter lamp in the interior which include the spiritual believe and praying technique. The monastery architecture is the gem with the fusion of religious symbolism and preserved traditional technique and tradition.

Suspension bridge engineering

The base camp tour includes the rivers and the waterfall due to which we can see the iconic suspension bridge which suit the rugged Himalayan. These types of bridge we can see while crossing the Arun and Barun which are constructed with the steel cables, stone anchorages and wooden planks. The bridge is made with the help of local materials and the local techniques which makes the bridge unique. The bridge plays the vital role in connecting the remote village with each other. The design of the bridge seen in the journey is unique which adds adventure and the local talent beauty to the visitor.

Tibetan stone houses

In the Makalu base camp visit we can see the Tibetan stone house which add the beauty in the Himalayan. The houses are made with the traditional way with the local slate and granite stone, the dry-stone walls and the roofs are made with wooden beans covered with clay. These types of houses are earthquake-resistant which perfectly adopt the mountain climate which contain the comfortable interior design and warm temperature inside the house.

The stone house reflects the traditional meaning and the spiritual believe in the house with the prayer flags. This house reflects the nomadic life of Himalayan region with full of adventure and the peaceful environment.

Historical relevance of Makalu Base Camp trek

The Makalu base camp trek journey not only holds the cultural and natural beauty but it has its own history connected with the place. The region holds the challenges and gives the reward of natural beauty also can be marked as the achievement. The trail was officially opened to visit and explore in 1992 with the establishment of the national park. The region conserves the rare wildlife of animals. Lastly, the place history shows that the place is remote with less facility, full of adventure and holding the local ancient trade culture to full fill the need.

Sherpa and Rai cultural heritage

In the journey we can observe Sherpa and Rai communities protecting and preserving their history adopting the Himalayan environment. The cultural belief to revolve around mountain and worship and celebrate the festivals in the traditional way reflecting their ancient believe to make the god listen their pray. The festivals like Losar, sakela featuring the drumming and communal dance. There are practices done to make the new generation know their tradition.

Ancient trade route

The place lies in the remote eastern area where there is lack of services and to trade the goods the local people follow the China-Nepal border. The Nepalese trader follow the old way of exchanging the salt, wool and grains between the lowland and highland on the basic of their ability and capability. The trade route boosts the economics and the facilities, religious in the globalized world. The ancient trade is use to maintain the resource in the route in order to make the visitor feel fully complete.

Buddhist monasteries and stupas

The Makalu base camp route have different religious stupas and monasteries which provide spiritual healing in the journey. The Buddhist monasteries and the stupas are the place where spiritual practice, learning and cultural preservation is across the region. The place holds the iconic meaning and contain prayer flags and buddha eyes to symbolize enlightenment. The stupas are made by ancestor with the meaning to pray and make the landscape safe. The monasteries and stupas play vital role in the festivals celebrated by the local communities, they perform the pray in the place.

Ideal season/s for Makalu Base Camp trek

The ideal seasons for the Makalu Base Camp trek are:

Spring Season: The time of March to May have very clear and clean weather for the trek, the weather remains good and stable most of this season in Makalu region with forests blooming with national flower rhododendrons as well. If you want to witness beautiful rhododendron flowers, you must choose this season as it is a treat to have a glimpse of.

Autumn Season: The months from September to November do have blue skies, the weather is clear, clean and weather conditions remain stable with best visibility of picturesque scenes and the whole scenery looks so majestic and breathtaking at the same time. For best visibility and scenery, you must choose this season.

Monsoon season: We suggest you to not travel or just avoid this season for Makalu Base Camp trek. The time of June to August, it remains very rainy, the trails are very slippery and muddy. Leeches trouble your walking. Still it has positive sides too. The clouds look fascinating, and the bloomed flowers make whole of the grasslands look so beautiful. The hills are decorated with monsoon flowers and its chilled atmosphere makes you feel serene.

Winter season: We also suggest you to not travel or just avoid this season for Makalu Base Camp trek. The time of December to February, the weather remains extreme cold, snowy everywhere, the trails are very slippery due to snow. Still if you prefer snow, it is the nice season. The snowy hills looks so beautiful and crystals of ices on lakes, rivers just make the trails more interesting to walk on.

Makalu Base Camp trek for Beginners

The Makalu base camp trek is challenging but yet is rewarding with the adventure and natural beauty. The trek is not recommended for beginner with health issue where the people with good physical fitness can prepare and explore the place. The base camp involves the long walking hour in the high altitude so training like hiking, cardio and daily exercise is required.

In the visit, acclimatization days should be built in itineraries to prevent from the altitude sickness. The place needs different permit like Makalu barun national park permit and rural municipality permit. The season add the beauty in the trek spring or autumn is seen having stable weather to enhance the beauty.

Mountains seen from Makalu base camp trek

The place Makalu base camp which lies in (4,870 meters) provide us the breathtaking view of some highest snowcapped mountains and endangered species of animals in wildlife. The mountains seen from the place is mount Makalu (8,485m) which is known as the fifth highest peak. The peak like mount Everest (8,848m) is rarely seen from the eastern part which few people observe.

The mount lotse (8,516m) fourth highest peak is seen along the Everest side showing the iconic Himalayan scene. The mount chamlang (7,319) is the peak which lies near Makalu which is destination providing the best view of glaciated peak for photo. The peak name baruntse (7,129m) is snowcapped mountain which we can observe from the upper most viewpoint of the base camp.

The Makalu Base Camp trek is the combination of the pristine beauty of nature and the view full of snowcapped mountains is the reward gained from the high-altitude place.

Hiring a Guide for Makalu Base Camp Trek

Hiring a Guide is very essential as the routes and destinations of Makalu Base Camp trek are remote, difficult and challenging. There are high passes, lush forests, indecisive trails, restricted areas and conserves. So, it is very essential to hire a guide as he/she ensures your security, safe environment, provides knowledge of cultural aspects and also acquires your necessary permits.

Makalu Base Camp trek needs navigation and proper management of Logistics. One should be familiar with altitude sickness issues, evacuation systems, and basic first aid, communicate with destined accommodations, food, and allocate porters and emergency protocols. That one is a Tour guide. If you hire a guide, the average cost of a guide is 30 to 40 USD.

You can hire the guide through a reliable and registered trek agency like of Info tours and treks. The ratio of guide to trekkers is 1 guide for 5 trekkers and 2 guides for 10 trekkers.

Restricted Area Permit for Makalu Base Camp Trek

The permits you will require to trek Makalu Base Camp Trek are Makalu Barun National Park entrey permit costing about USD $30 and Restricted area permit costing about USD $20 per week until 4 weeks, after then they impose higher permit costs. TIMS card is necessary which might cost between USD $10 to USD $20.
These permits will be arranged by a trekking and travel operating agency like Info Nepal tours and treks. A solo international trekker without a guide will not be able to acquire the permits.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Distance

The Makalu Base Camp trek distances about 110 km to 130 km from depending upon what route you desire to walk on. The average walking period ranges from 5 to 8 hours per day.

Total Trekking Distance: ~110–130 km (round trip, depending on route variations).

FAQs

How many days does it take to complete Makalu Base Camp trek?

It almost takes 18 full days to complete the Makalu Base Camp trek including the arrival and departure. Other than that, if we calculate the actual trekking days, it takes 14 days to complete from Num to Makalu Base Camp and return.

What is the altitude of Makalu Base Camp?

Is Makalu Base Camp trek suitable for beginners?

Do we need any permits to trek Makalu Base Camp?

What is the ideal season for Makalu Base Camp trek?

What kind of accommodation will I get during the trek?

What kind of food will I get during the trek?

Is drinking water available during the trek?

What kind of guide and how many porters will I get?

Do I need sleeping bag?

Do I need trekking poles?

What kind of shoes are suggested?

What if any trekker has dietary restrictions?

Can we customize the itinerary?

How many hours should we hike per day?

Group Discount

  • No. of PaxPrice per Pax
  • 2-5USD
  • 5-10USD

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