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Makalu Base Camp Trek: An 18-Day Himalayan Adventure

Makalu Base Camp Trip Facts

Duration: 18 Days
Maximum Altitude: 5,250 meters
Accommodation: Tea House
Best Seasons: March-May, September-November
Daily Walking Duration: 5-6 hours
Trek Grade: Moderate

Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek offers a challenging yet rewarding journey through high-altitude terrains and snow-laden landscapes, immersing you in the heart of the Himalayas. This trek takes you to Makalu Base Camp, situated at 5,250 meters within the renowned Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area. Here, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Mt. Makalu, the fifth-highest peak in the world at 8,463 meters.

Starting the Adventure through the Num Village

Your adventure begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a picturesque jeep ride to Num village. From Num, the exhilarating trek to Makalu Base Camp commences. The trail winds through the Arun River valley, passing through Sedua and Num before crossing the Shipton La Pass at 4,210 meters. This path leads you into the upper Barun River valley, providing close encounters with the magnificent Makalu and Chamlang Himal peaks. This trek explores one of Nepal’s most remote and less-traveled regions.

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The journey starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a scenic jeep ride to Num village. From Num, you will begin your trek to Makalu Base Camp. The trail follows the Arun River valley, guiding you through Sedua and Num, then crosses the Shipton La Pass at 4,210 meters. This path leads into the upper Barun River valley, offering close encounters with the awe-inspiring Makalu and Chamlang Himal peaks. This trek unveils one of Nepal’s most secluded and less-traveled regions.

The Beauty of Preservation

The Makalu Base Camp and Barun Valley are part of a vast international protected area established through a Nepal-China agreement. Covering 2,330 square kilometers of National Park and an additional 830 square kilometers of conservation area in Nepal alone, this region exemplifies natural beauty and emphasizes the importance of conservation.

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Crossing High Passes

During the trek through Barun National Park and the Arun Valley, you will cross three challenging and spectacular high passes: Sherpani Col, West Col, and Amphu Lapcha Pass. These passes offer breathtaking panoramic views and add an extra layer of adventure to your journey.

The Majestic Makalu Himal

Standing at an impressive height of 8,481 meters, Makalu Himal is the trek’s highlight. The route passes through Shipton La to reach this towering peak, the fifth-highest mountain on Earth. Despite its remote location, the Makalu Base Camp trek is achievable, leading through the stunning Makalu Barun National Park, renowned for its natural beauty and biodiversity. As you ascend from 700 meters to over 5,000 meters, each day reveals a new scenic wonder.

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Comfort and Cuisine at Tea Houses

Throughout the trek, you will stay in modest tea houses, enjoying authentic Nepali meals with some options for Chinese, Indian, or Italian cuisine. While the variety may not match that of more popular treks like Annapurna or Everest Base Camp, the tea houses offer a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and mingling with fellow trekkers.

Life Along the Trail

The Makalu region is characterized by its stunning landscapes and vibrant local life. The Sherpa and Rai communities, particularly in Chechela and Num villages, primarily grow cardamom. Other staple crops include wheat, barley, millet, maize, potatoes, and beans. As you trek through terraced farmlands, you’ll immerse yourself in local cultures and witness picturesque alpine meadows. You may also encounter wild and domestic animals, such as Himalayan yaks, at the base camp and Yangli Kharka.

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Cultural Richness

The trek offers deep cultural experiences with encounters with various ethnic groups. The Sherpa people, known for their mountaineering skills, bring their Tibetan-Buddhist heritage to the region, visible in monasteries and prayer flags. You will also interact with the Rai and Limbu communities, who contribute unique languages, music, dance, and festivals.

The ideal times for the Makalu Base Camp trek are from September to November and from March to May. Early March should be avoided due to heavy snowfall at Makalu Base Camp and Jak Kharka.

Challenges and Considerations

The Makalu Base Camp trek is moderately difficult, with several high-altitude passes making it challenging yet accessible for first-time trekkers. Daily hikes of 5 to 6 hours are recommended for successful completion. Plan for 2 to 3 extra days to account for unforeseen delays due to severe weather. During the end or start of the monsoon season, be aware of potential landslides that could obstruct the Tumlingtar to Num Road.

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Trip Highlights

Remote Wilderness: Explore pristine and less-visited areas of Nepal.
Majestic Views: Enjoy stunning panoramas of Makalu and other towering peaks.
Cultural Immersion: Engage with diverse ethnic communities and their traditions.
Challenging Terrain: Test your skills with steep ascents and rugged trails.
Flora and Fauna: Discover rich biodiversity and rare Himalayan wildlife.
Authentic Tea Houses: Experience local hospitality and cuisine.
Makalu Base Camp: Reach the foot of Makalu and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Enjoy a more intimate trekking experience away from the crowds.
Adventure: Explore remote valleys, cross high passes, and uncover hidden gems.
Memorable Experiences: Forge bonds, make memories, and return fulfilled by the journey.

Local Cuisine and Accommodations

Local foods such as dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), potatoes, eggs, and soups are staples of Nepalese cuisine, commonly served along the trail. While some tea houses may not have formal menus, they offer simple and hearty dishes perfect for refueling after a day of trekking. Embracing the local experience and savoring authentic flavors enhances the adventure.

Our expert guide Trekking team will enrich every aspect of your Makalu Base Camp trek. Their knowledge and experience ensure your journey is enjoyable, safe, and informative. From navigating challenging terrain to sharing insights into local culture and ecology, our guide will enhance your trekking experience. With our team’s support, you’ll create lasting memories in one of Nepal’s most remote and awe-inspiring regions.

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Starting the Journey

The trek kicks off with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, which offers a beautiful view of the mountains. After arriving at Tumlingtar, a jeep ride takes you to the village of Num, where the trek truly begins. As you start walking, the trail takes you through the valley of the Arun River.

This part of the trek goes through the villages of Sedua and Num before you make the climb over the Shipton La Pass, which sits at an altitude of 4,210 meters. This pass takes you into the upper part of the Barun River valley. Here, you get a close view of the Makalu and Chamlang Himal peaks. This part of Nepal is less visited, making it a hidden gem for trekkers.

The Trekking Experience

Each day of the Makalu Base Camp trek brings new experiences and challenges. As you walk through the varied terrain, you’ll see the landscape change from lush green valleys to high-altitude deserts. The trek involves crossing three high passes: Sherpani Col, West Col, and Amphu Lapcha Pass. Each pass presents its own set of challenges and rewards, with panoramic views that make the effort worthwhile.

The highest point of the trek is Makalu Base Camp, situated at 5,250 meters. From here, you get a stunning view of Makalu Himal, which stands tall at 8,481 meters. The base camp is not just a place for mountaineers but also for trekkers who wish to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas up close. The first successful ascent of Makalu was made on May 15, 1955, by Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy.

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Staying in Tea Houses

During the trek, you’ll stay in tea houses, which are simple lodges run by local families. These tea houses provide basic accommodation and meals. The food is hearty and nourishing, perfect for keeping your energy levels up. You can expect to eat a lot of dal bhat, a traditional Nepali dish of rice and lentil soup, along with potatoes, eggs, and various soups. While the menu might be limited compared to more popular trekking routes like Annapurna or Everest, the hospitality and warmth of the tea houses more than make up for it.

Immersing in Local Culture

The trek is not just about the stunning landscapes but also about the rich cultural experiences. As you pass through villages, you’ll get to see the way of life of the Sherpa and Rai communities. These villages are known for their terraced farms where locals grow cardamom, wheat, barley, millet, maize, potatoes, and beans. Cardamom is a major cash crop in this region, and you will see many fields dedicated to it.

The Sherpa community, famous for their mountaineering skills, bring their Tibetan-Buddhist culture to the region. You’ll see monasteries, prayer wheels, and flags fluttering in the wind, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the trek. The Rai and Limbu communities also add to the cultural diversity with their unique traditions, languages, music, and dance.

When to Go? (Best time for Makalu Base Camp Trek)

The best times to go on the Makalu Base Camp trek are from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is more stable, and the views are clear. However, early March can be tricky due to heavy snowfall at higher altitudes, particularly around Makalu Base Camp and Jak Kharka. This can make the trail difficult to navigate and potentially dangerous. Similarly, the end or start of the monsoon season can present challenges such as landslides that might obstruct the road from Tumlingtar to Num. Therefore, it’s essential to plan your trek carefully and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Preparing for the Trek

Preparation is key for a successful and enjoyable trek to Makalu Base Camp. Given the moderate difficulty and the high-altitude nature of this trek, here are some tips to help you prepare:

Physical Fitness:
- Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises like running, swimming, or cycling to build stamina.
- Incorporate strength training exercises focusing on your legs, core, and back, as these muscle groups will be heavily utilized during the trek.
- Practice hiking with a loaded backpack to simulate the actual trekking experience.
Acclimatization:
- The trek involves significant altitude gains, so it’s crucial to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
- Include rest days in your itinerary to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitudes.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a slow, steady pace to give your body time to adapt.
Gear and Equipment:
- Invest in good quality trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, a warm sleeping bag, and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions.
- Pack essentials such as a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and high-energy snacks.
- Don’t forget to bring a reliable map or guidebook, a flashlight, and extra batteries.
Permits and Documentation:
- Obtain the necessary permits, including the Makalu Barun National Park permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
- Carry copies of your passport, travel insurance, and emergency contact information.

On the Trail (Itinerary for the Makalu Base Camp Trek)

Each day on the Makalu Base Camp trek offers unique experiences. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect on some key days of the trek:

Day 1-2: Kathmandu to Tumlingtar to Num:
- After arriving in Tumlingtar via a short flight from Kathmandu, a jeep ride takes you to Num village. This is where your trekking adventure begins. The first few days involve moderate trekking through picturesque villages and lush green forests.
Day 3-5: Num to Sedua to Tashigaon:
- The trail descends steeply to the Arun River before climbing up to Sedua. From Sedua, you continue to Tashigaon, the last village before Makalu Base Camp. These days involve traversing through terraced fields and rhododendron forests.
Day 6-8: Tashigaon to Khongma Danda:
- The trek becomes more challenging as you ascend towards Khongma Danda. The trail here is steep and can be quite taxing. Khongma Danda serves as an acclimatization point where you can rest and prepare for the high passes ahead.
Day 9-11: Khongma Danda to Dobato to Yangle Kharka:
- Crossing the Shipton La Pass at 4,210 meters, you will experience breathtaking views of Makalu, Chamlang, and other peaks. The descent to Dobato and then to Yangle Kharka takes you through alpine meadows and dense forests.
Day 12-14: Yangle Kharka to Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp:
- This section involves trekking through the Barun Valley with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Reaching Makalu Base Camp at 5,250 meters is a significant achievement. Here, you can marvel at the towering presence of Makalu Himal.
Day 15-18: Return Journey:
- The return journey retraces your steps back to Tumlingtar, with overnight stops at the same villages. The descent is quicker but equally rewarding with opportunities to revisit the scenic landscapes and interact with the local communities.