18-Day Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal with Remote Himalayan Trails

About This Tour

About Makalu

Nepal

Makalu

Get a local guide to help you handle the 8,485-meter top of mighty Makalu. A brother of Everest, this one overshadows the beautiful Barun Valley with glacial peaks and ice-carved ridges.

Explore Makalu Nepal All destinations

What's Included

• Permits and fees: All necessary permits for the Langtang Valley Trek, including the Langtang National Park entry permit and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
• Accommodation: Accommodation throughout the trek, typically in teahouses or lodges. This generally includes accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek in a 3-star hotel on a BB plan (twin-sharing basis).
• Meals: Most packages include three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. This also includes two hot beverages (at breakfast and lunch) and seasonal fruits after dinner.
• Transportation: Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi (or a similar starting point) and back.
• Guide and porters: Services of an experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porters to carry luggage. This includes their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
• First aid kit: A basic first aid kit.
• Trekking map: A map of the trekking route.
• Equipment: Duffle bag and sleeping bag (if necessary).
• Domestic flights.

Not Included

• International flights: International airfare to and from Nepal is not included.
• Travel insurance: Travel insurance that covers emergency rescue and evacuation is not included, and you'll be expected to have your own.
• Personal expenses: Expenses for extra meals, drinks, snacks, charging devices, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and other personal costs are not included.
• Nepal visa fees: Entry visa fees for Nepal.
• Additional accommodation and meals: If you choose to extend your stay in Nepal, the cost of additional accommodation and meals will not be included.
• Rescue and evacuation: Any costs related to emergency evacuation or rescues are not covered.
• Trekking gear: Personal trekking equipment, such as hiking boots, down jackets, trekking poles, and other gear, is not included.
• Tips: Tips for guides and porters are not included and are left to your discretion.

Itinerary

1. 1
   Day 01

   Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Briefing

   Arrive in Kathmandu, meet your representative, and transfer to your hotel. Attend an evening briefing at the office about your trek. Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

2. 2
   Day 02

   Fly to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num (1560m)

   Take a scenic flight to Tumlingtar and enjoy majestic views of Makalu, Ganesh Himal, and Mt. Kanchenjunga. Drive by private jeep to Num, passing through Khandbari and Hururu. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Transportation: Air Flight Accommodation: Standard Teahouse

3. 3
   Day 03

   Trek from Num to Seduwa

   Trek down a large, steeply descending path leading to a suspension bridge over the Arun River. Pass through dense bamboo forests and local villages with traditional-style homes and teahouses. Visit the Makalu Barun National Park office to register and verify your permits. Ascend to Seduwa. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

4. 4
   Day 04

   Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaun

   Trek along a trail passing several Mani walls. Ascend stone steps through farmlands, rhododendron forests, and bamboo groves. Enjoy melodious birdsong along the way. Reach Tashi Gaun. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

5. 5
   Day 05

   Trek from Tashi Gaun to Khongma Danda

   Climb a few stone steps and cross a bridge to start the journey through rhododendron woodland. Follow a winding trail with blooming rhododendrons in spring, creating colorful scenery. Stop at Dhara for lunch and refreshments. Pass a huge rock and hike up stone steps to reach Khongma Danda. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

6. 6
   Day 06

   Acclimatization at Khongma Danda

   Undertake an acclimatization hike to Khongma La to adjust to the high altitude. Walk through rhododendron bushes and climb stone stairs to reach the pass at 3,890m. Accompanied by your guide, aim to reach the pass in approximately one hour. Return to Khongma Danda for rest and recovery. This prepares you to cross four high passes the following day, starting with Khongma La. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

7. 7
   Day 07

   Cross High Passes to Dobato

   Traverse four high passes while enjoying breathtaking Himalayan views. Climb Kongmo La at 3,873m through rhododendron forests, witnessing Makalu and Chamlang peaks. Walk along the ridge to reach Ghungru La (Tutu La) at 4,055m. Ascend rocky terrain to Shipton La at 4,216m. Descend toward Kalo Pokhari Lake at 4,022m, a sacred site for Hindu pilgrims during Janai Purnima. Continue ascending to Keke La at 4,152m for panoramic snow-covered mountain views. Finally, descend through a magnificent valley to reach Dobato. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

8. 8
   Day 08

   Trek from Dobato to Yangle Kharka

   Enjoy a relaxing walk through a pine and rhododendron forest on a descending trail. Spot birds such as redstarts and minivets along the route. Descend steeply toward the Barun River; take caution in snowy conditions. Witness spectacular snow-capped views of Chamlang and Tutse Peaks. Trek across an uneven path, passing a stunning waterfall and a wooden bridge before arriving at Yangle Kharka. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

9. 9
   Day 09

   Trek from Yangle Kharka to Langmale Kharka

   Continue your walk along the trail, passing a river and a small monastery. Admire the stunning views of rocky cliffs in the distance while walking through bushland. Enjoy a relatively flat section of the trail with clear views of the surrounding mountain peaks. Pass through the grasslands of Yak Kharka, Jhak Kharka, and Merek before reaching Lagmale Kharka. Observe the prayer flags fluttering in the air near the Mani walls. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

10. 10
    Day 10

    Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp

    Trek to the base of the world's fifth-highest peak, Mt. Makalu Base Camp. Follow a zigzag sandy path and cross rivers along the route. Reach the Base Camp at 4,870m. Spot local wildlife including black redstarts, Tibetan snowcocks, hill pigeons, and other birds if the timing is right. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

11. 11
    Day 11

    Explore Makalu Base Camp (5100m)

    Trek from Makalu Base Camp toward the ridge at 5,300m for panoramic views. Cross a log bridge over the river and climb a steep trail to a vantage point. Enjoy spectacular views of Makalu, Peak 7, Peak 6, and Peak 4. Take a short acclimatization stop at the ridge to adjust to the high altitude. Visit nearby glaciers and lakes, including the massive Barun Glacier. View Mt. Lhotse, Mount Everest, and the south face of Makalu. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

12. 12
    Day 12

    Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka

    Hike from Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka via Shershong, Langmale Kharka, and Merek. Trek through a thick pine forest while enjoying the beautiful alpine scenery. Immerse yourself in the tranquil mountain environment along the route. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

13. 13
    Day 13

    Trek from Yangle Kharka to Dobato

    Ascend from Yangle Kharka through dense rhododendron and fir forests rich in birdlife. Enjoy the tranquil sounds of hidden waterfalls along the trail. Cross small wooden bridges and take in dramatic views of Peak 7 and Peak 6. Arrive at Dobato, a peaceful stopover nestled in the forest. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

14. 14
    Day 14

    Cross the High Passes to Khongma Danda

    Cross four high passes: Keke La (4,170m), Shipton La (4,229m), Ghungru La (4,044m), and Khongma La (3,873m). Witness fluttering prayer flags in the cold breeze, creating a spiritual moment atop the passes. Descend along stair-like stone paths over rolling green hills, with snow giants visible in the distance. Arrive at Khongma Danda for an overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

15. 15
    Day 15

    Trek from Khongma Danda to Seduwa

    Descend through lush cloud forest, crossing hanging bridges and walking by cascading waterfalls. Observe changes in flora as you lose altitude. Arrive at Seduwa, a traditional Rai and Sherpa village. Interact with locals and learn about the culture, stone houses, and terraced fields. Option to try homemade millet beer (tongba). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Teahouse

16. 16
    Day 16

    Trek to Num and Drive to Tumlingtar

    Trek through traditional villages along the Arun River valley, following terraced hillsides and forested trails. Reach the vehicle at Tumlingtar. Drive along rugged mountain roads beside the Arun River. Arrive in the bustling town of Tumlingtar. Celebrate your accomplishment with your team members in the eastern hills. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Lodge

17. 17
    Day 17

    Fly Back to Kathmandu

    Catch a scenic flight back to the capital city. Enjoy aerial views of Makalu Barun National Park. Spot distant peaks including Kanchenjunga, Everest, and Makalu from the sky. Transfer to your designated hotel with your guide. Rest at the hotel or explore the vibrant night streets of Thamel. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

18. 18
    Day 18

    Departure from Kathmandu

    Enjoy your final morning in Nepal with lasting memories of the Himalayas. Receive a scheduled transfer to the airport with our representative. Complete departure formalities and board your onward flight home. Conclude your journey with unforgettable experiences from the Himalayas. Meals: Breakfast

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