Makalu Base Camp Trek
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding Himalayan adventures, taking trekkers deep into the remote and pristine landscapes of the Makalu-Barun region. The trail passes through diverse environments, from lush forests and terraced farmlands to alpine meadows, rugged valleys, glaciers, and snow-covered high-altitude terrain. Along the way, trekkers experience spectacular views of Mount Makalu (8,481 m), the world’s fifth-highest mountain, as well as Chamlang and other magnificent Himalayan peaks.
The journey leads through Makalu-Barun National Park and offers an authentic wilderness experience away from Nepal’s busier trekking routes. Crossing challenging terrain and the Shipton La Pass (4,210 m), the trek requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization. Trekkers also have the opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyle and warm hospitality of Sherpa, Rai, Gurung, and other local communities. With its dramatic scenery, rich biodiversity, unique culture, and remote mountain trails, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is an ideal adventure for those seeking solitude and an authentic Himalayan experience.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Flight to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num Village
Take a scenic morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a 4–5 hour jeep drive to Num Village (1,560 m). The journey passes through beautiful hills, terraced farmland, forests, and remote mountain settlements.
Driving time: 4–5 hours
Day 2: Num to Sedua
Begin the trek with a steep descent through lush forests and stone stairways toward the Arun River Valley. Cross suspension bridges and pass through traditional Rai settlements and terraced farmland before reaching Sedua (1,500 m).
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 3: Sedua to Tashigaon
Trek uphill through dense rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests as you enter Makalu Barun National Park. Continue through peaceful villages and beautiful forested landscapes to Tashigaon (2,100 m), the last permanent settlement on the trail.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 4: Tashigaon to Khongma Danda
A challenging uphill trek leads through dense forests and steep stone staircases toward Khongma Danda (3,500 m). As you gain altitude, the landscape changes from lush forests to alpine vegetation, with increasingly impressive mountain views.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 5: Khongma Danda to Dobate via Shipton La Pass
Cross the spectacular Shipton La Pass (4,210 m), one of the highest points of the trek. Enjoy breathtaking views of Makalu, Chamlang, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks before descending into the remote upper Barun Valley and continuing to Dobate.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 6: Dobate to Yangle Kharka
Descend gradually through alpine meadows and yak grazing areas while following the Barun River. The valley opens into spectacular mountain scenery with waterfalls, cliffs, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 7: Yangle Kharka to Langmale Kharka
Continue deeper into the remote Barun Valley, gradually gaining altitude. The trail becomes more rugged as you enter a dramatic high-altitude wilderness surrounded by glaciers and towering Himalayan peaks.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 8: Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp
Trek through rocky and glacial terrain toward Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m), located beneath Mount Makalu (8,481 m), the world’s fifth-highest mountain. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and glaciers.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 9: Exploration and Acclimatization at Makalu Base Camp
Spend the day exploring Makalu Base Camp and its spectacular surroundings. Take short hikes around the glaciers and enjoy close-up views of Mount Makalu and the dramatic Himalayan landscape.
Hiking time: 3–5 hours
Day 10: Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka
Begin the return journey by descending through the beautiful Barun Valley. Enjoy changing views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and alpine landscapes as you retrace the trail toward Yangle Kharka.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 11: Yangle Kharka to Dobate
Continue trekking back through the remote upper Barun Valley toward Dobate. The changing landscapes and mountain scenery offer a different perspective on the route.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 12: Dobate to Khongma Danda via Shipton La Pass
Climb back toward Shipton La Pass (4,210 m) and cross the high mountain pass before descending to Khongma Danda. Enjoy magnificent views of Makalu, Chamlang, and the surrounding peaks.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 13: Khongma Danda to Tashigaon
Descend through beautiful rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests to Tashigaon (2,100 m). As you lose altitude, the landscape becomes greener and warmer.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 14: Tashigaon to Num
Continue descending through forested hills, terraced farmland, traditional settlements, and suspension bridges before reaching Num Village (1,560 m).
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 15: Drive from Num to Tumlingtar
Take a scenic jeep ride from Num to Tumlingtar, passing through remote mountain roads, villages, and beautiful hill landscapes. Overnight stay in Tumlingtar.
Driving time: 4–5 hours
Day 16: Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
Take a morning flight from Tumlingtar back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Your unforgettable Makalu Base Camp adventure comes to an end.
