Makalu Base Camp Trek

Trip Duration 18
Max Altitude 4870M at Makalu Base Camp
Group Size 2-30
Best Time for Visit March to May, September to December

Trip Overview

Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that takes you to the pristine and remote region of Makalu-Barun National Park in eastern Nepal. This trek also offers a unique opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of the Himalayas and witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and traditional local cultures. The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a thrilling drive to the village of Num. From there, the trek also gradually ascends through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and terraced farmlands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural grandeur of the region. As you venture higher, the trail unfolds spectacular vistas of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world. The trekking route traverses through traditional Sherpa villages like Seduwa, Tashi Gaon, and Khongma, where you can experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Along the way, you'll also pass suspension bridges, glacial rivers, and cascading waterfalls, adding to the charm of the journey. The diverse wildlife of Makalu-Barun National Park will captivate you, with chances to spot endangered species like the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and elusive snow leopard. As you approach Makalu Base Camp, located at an elevation of approximately 4,870 meters (15,978 feet), you'll also be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga. The sight of the massive Barun Glacier and the surrounding Himalayan wilderness will leave you humbled and inspired. The descent follows a slightly different trail, offering new perspectives and allowing you to retrace your steps while cherishing the memories of the journey. The trek concludes with a drive back to Tumlingtar and a flight to Kathmandu.

Conclusion and Summary

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging endeavor, requiring good physical fitness and previous trekking experience. However, the rewards are immeasurable, as you embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of the most remote and captivating regions of Nepal. It's an opportunity to connect with nature, immerse yourself in local cultures, and create lifelong memories in the lap of the Himalayas.

 Trip Highlight

  • Situated eastern part of Nepal, between Sagarmatha and Makalu-Barun National Parks.
  • An alternative approach to the Everest Base Camp via Salpa Pass (3350m).
  • Un-spoilt culture, varieties of vegetation, rare wildlife, and “off the beaten Trail”.
  • Nearby Tibet border; Ancient Buddhist monastery, Chorten, and Mane wall.
  • An amazing view including the top of the world Mt.  Everest (8,848.86m), Makalu, and others.
  • Scenic flight Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and end Lukla to Kathmandu
  • Stunning views of waterfalls, Rivers and Gorges.
  • Culturally rich Solu-Khumbu region
  • Encounter local villages and get a glimpse into the lives of the Sherpa people
  • Famous for its rustic lodges and teahouses
  • Visit Monasteries and Stupas offering Religious and Spiritual respites and significance.

Itinerary

When you arrive at the Kathmandu International Airport, a representative from Friendship World Trek will welcome you and drive you to one of the city’s three-star hotels. You may take a nap at your hotel or wander through Thamel to finish off any last-minute shopping. Following that, you may come and see us at our office to learn more about the Makalu Base Camp Trek itinerary.

Your Makalu Base Camp Trek Guide will meet you at your accommodation after breakfast for an introduction. Briefings on the walk and other important information will be provided at this pre-trip meeting. Please, check your insurance details and have a copy of your travel medical insurance policy with you. For the Makalu Base Camp Trek Permit, you must bring your passport, three pictures the size of a passport, and proof of travel insurance. During your leisure time, you may relax or go exploring in the Kathmandu Valley for any last-minute shopping. If you desire it, a tour to one of Kathmandu’s world-heritage monuments, such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, or Kathmandu Durbar Square, will be organized.

You will be picked up from your hotel and transported to the airport in Kathmandu where you will board a domestic aircraft to Tumlingtar to begin your Makalu Base Camp Trek. The trip normally lasts for 35 minutes, and observe the ranges of snow capped peaks from Ganesh Himal to Mt. Everest, Makalu & Mt. Kanchenjunga . To reach Kandbari, a significant town in the area and home to the government authorities, you will need to travel for around 30 minutes up a winding, hilly route.

You continue on a twisting dirt road until it reaches its highest point at 1,960 meters before descending to Chichila at 1,900 meters, a little settlement with a police checkpoint where you must show your Makalu Base Camp Trekking permit. There are lovely views of the slopes covered in trees in the area. From here, it’s a rocky ride for the majority of the way to Num since the road begins to degrade from Chichila.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 3 to 4 Hours Drive
  • 40 Kilometers

Today, you will travel a lengthy, steep descent to the Arun River and a lengthy ascent to Seduwa. The Makalu Base Camp Trek trail is on large stone stairs all the way to the river at 770 meters and descends through cardamom fields. After crossing the suspension bridge over the Arun River, you will start the arduous ascent to Seduwa, through forests of enormous bamboo and humming village activity. In order to check your permit, your guide will go to the Makalu-Barun National Park checkpoint. Seduwa has a school, several homes, a few businesses, and a few tea houses strewn around the mountain.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 5 to 6 Hours
  • 8 Kilometers

Without the strenuous ascents and descents like yesterday, today’s trek is wonderful. As you approach the Sherpa settlement, you will start up a trail with numerous stone steps and pass by a number of mani walls. Your Makalu Base Camp Trek Route will go through rhododendron, and bamboo woods, as well as several tiny farms are strewn across the slope and cardamom plantations. Today’s trek is definitely interesting and uneven. You will arrive at the little community of Chyaksa Danda at 1,900m in around two hours.

You may occasionally have to cross certain streams on sturdy wood bridges while walking through areas of a deep forest. Although getting there takes longer than you may expect, as you contour on an uneven trail, you will eventually see your goal, Tashigaon, on the slope ahead. You eventually make your way down to a log bridge just before making the last ascent of stone stairs to Tashigaon.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 5 to 6 Hours
  • 8 Kilometers

You will leave Tashigaon and climb up some stone stairs to start your Makalu Base Camp Trek. You eventually cross a log bridge and keep climbing through a breathtaking rhododendron woodland. You arrive in Dhara, which has a tea house and is located at 2,867m, after traveling for about three hours. Since this is your only opportunity to stop for refreshments until reaching Khongma, you probably have your lunch there.

After leaving Dhara, it takes about an hour of difficult climbing to reach Unshisa at 3,200m, where you cross a huge rock. More arduous hiking on stone stairs through a rhododendron woodland is required from Unshisa. After several hours of laboriously climbing from Unshisha, you finally arrive at a stone rest area with prayer flags, and another 45 minutes of walking will take you to Khongma Danda at 3500m. There are three lodges in Khongma, and this location could also have a lot of snow.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 5 to 6 Hours
  • 7.2 Kilometers

We strongly advise you to go up to the Khongma La today since appropriate acclimatization is crucial. Today is the day for acclimatization, according to your Makalu Base Camp Trek itinerary. You leave your tea house and start walking through rhododendron bushes up stone stairs till you reach the pass at 3,890m. You should be able to get to the pass in about an hour. If you are eager, your guide will urge you to go a bit farther. You then return to Khongma, fit and well-acclimatized, ready to take on the four passes tomorrow, the first of which is, of course, the Khongma La.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is a particularly wonderful day since you will be traversing four high passes with airy traverses and dramatic ridge portions that provide nearly nonstop breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks. Your first pass of the day, the 3,890m Khongma La, is reached after about an hour of climbing through rhododendron bushes. Makalu and Chamlang may be seen from Khongma La Pass. Before beginning its ascent into the second pass, your Makalu Base Camp Trek Route will drop for a bit. After climbing some challenging stone stairs, Sano Pokhari Danda, at 4,105 meters, is reached, with Sano Pokhari Lake below.

The Shipton La, which is 4,200 meters above sea level, is reached after several undulations. A mani wall and cairn next to the shelter serve as markers for the pass. To reach Kalo Pokhari Lake at 4,080m, you will descend across less severe terrain. Hindu pilgrims who are traveling there for the Janai Purnima Festival will find it decorated with prayer flags. Your final pass of the day, the Keke La at 4,170m, is a simpler ascent from the lake. After around another 45 minutes of descent, you will arrive at your lodge in Dobate, which is a much-needed sight after the arduous four-pass climb!

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 6 to 7 Hours
  • 7.6 Kilometers

OR

We have a superb view of snow capped mountains and of the surrounding landscapes. Our trek follows a gradual trail with few ups and down pass through the Thulo Pokhari (big pond) and Sano Pokhari (small pond). In the heavy snow fall, the path from here can be quite misleading and it will be difficult to find the trail sometimes. We walk further cross the Keke La pass (4230m) Tutu-la (4,200m) where there is a Chorten. Then we walk downhill back to vegetation, a small clearing place for camping in the middle of the woods of pines, hemlock, birch and rhododendrons to reach at Mumbuk. After having dinner go to bed at Tea house.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 3,400m
  • Trekking
  • 14.3 Km

This morning’s descent will take you through rhododendron and pine woods, which will be really enjoyable. Through the woodland, there is an abrupt slope that might be treacherous if there is still snow on the ground. You will eventually arrive at the river, where you will start your Makalu Base Camp Trek on a trail that runs beneath a big landslide region. You arrive at the tea house at Themathang Kharka, 3,500m, after a short climb.

From Dobate, it takes around four hours to get here. Just before you get to Themathang, there is a magnificent waterfall. From here, you must continue walking for a while until reaching a wooden bridge that spans the Baron Khola. The river is now on your left as the path undulates. You may get to your overnight lodging in the meadows of Yangri Kharka in around 1.5 hours from the tea store in Themathang.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 5 to 6 Hours
  • 9.7 Kilometers

OR

The day begins with a sharp descent down a wooden narrow valley and continues on to cross the Barun Khola just beyond Tamatan Kharka. It can also be slippery with occasional rock falls so you will have to walk carefully. After this you follow the Barn Khola along its northern bank. This trail goes through the seasonal settlement of Yangle Kharka. Staying at tea house for the night.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 3,557m
  • Trekking
  • 15 Km

The stroll will be nice and level, with the river on your left and the alluring aroma of juniper accompanying you. The Makalu Base Camp Trekking Trail is lined with a variety of vibrant prayer flags. Peak 4, Peak 6, Peak 7, and Yaupa dominate the vista ahead as the towering cliffs climb on either side of you. A visual feast of craggy snow-covered mountains, sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and sacred caves awaits you today.

After around 2.5 hours of trekking, the route widens as you pass the fields of Jhak Kharka, Yak Kharka, and finally Merek, where a welcoming tea house gradually appears. From Merek, it will take around two hours to go to your tea house in Langmale. Peak 7 serves as an amazing background to the lodge rooms, adding to the area’s exquisite vistas. A prayer flag-covered mani wall is located just in front of the line of rooms.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 5 to 6 Hours
  • 10.5 Kilometers

You will start your ascent on a sound course for your Makalu Base Camp Trek route. As you zigzag your way across the valley, maintain the river on your left. There will be a new stunning feature to awe at as you round each corner. While there are some sections where you must step from boulder to boulder, the majority of the time you are on a normal, sandy track. As you go forward, you can see Peak 4. You will arrive at Shershong, at 4,630m, after a few hours of trekking. Shershong makes a nice camping location, and it is a broad, level area with a lockable tiny stone house. The tantalizing sight of Makalu eventually appears.

You will be curious to see the base camp as you navigate a few curves. The lodges will eventually come into view. Your long-awaited goal is reached five minutes after you descend and cross the river. Makalu, the fifth-highest peak in the world, absolutely dominates the scene, as one might anticipate. Around the base camp, it’s common to observe Tibetan snow cocks, hill pigeons, black redstarts, and mountain finches.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 5 to 6 Hours
  • 8.7 Kilometers

Today, reaching the ridge, which is located around 5,300 meters above the base camp, will provide you with the most beautiful panoramic vistas. You use the log bridge to cross the river, then spend around three hours climbing a hazy, rather ill-defined trail. This vantage point offers spectacular views of Makalu, Peak 7, Peak 6, and Peak 4 as well as Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, Peak 3, SE Peak, Yaupa. When you have got your fill of mountain drama, return to base camp by following your previous steps.

It should take 4-5 hours to get back and forth. It’s a challenging endeavor because it’s steep and the altitude will definitely hit above 5,000m. There are other gentler choices, including taking a route to see the lakes past base camp. This is a rest day for acclimating so you will have a full day’s rest at the camp or, if you wish, wanders around or some take a small hike. The most scenic walk would be a hike on the right side of the camp for a closer view of Mt. Makalu, Barun Pokhari and the view of the rare face of Everest, the Kanshung face with Lhotse. A one hour steep climb brings you to the large meadow from where you can walk farther up to have a greater view of the mentioned peaks as well as other peaks. You may visit Japanese camp and French camp also. You may also climb a much shorter ridge immediately above base camp, and there is a little hill marked with prayer flags at the head of base camp that is about an hour’s walk out and stroll back.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

You will leave Mount Makalu’s stunning grandeur behind with a sorrowful heart and start walking back to Yangri Kharka. Getting to the Shershong meadow, which is indicated by a cabin covered in a bright orange tarp, will take around 1.5 hours. You will return to Langmale after another hour or two, where you can have tea and possibly lunch. You can reach the Merek tea house next after 1.15 hours of trekking. Before continuing your Makalu Base Camp Trek Route through pine trees back to Yangri Kharka, it is a good idea to relax here with a cup of tea. From the tea house in Merek, it will take 2 to 3 hours to go to Yangri Kharka.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 7 to 8 Hours
  • 16 Kilometers

It will be a beautiful, leisurely meander today as you follow the river down to the tea house at Themathang, passing a lot of rhododendron shrubs on the way. Just before Themathang, there is a wooden bridge that must be crossed. The journey to Themathang will take around 1.5 hours. The landslide region will eventually need to be traversed, which will take around 1.5 hours. Following a section of undulation, you will begin a hard ascent through the rhododendron woodland. As you get closer to the tea house at Dobate, the elevation gradually eases and becomes gentler along the Makalu Base Camp Trek Route.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 6 to 7 Hours
  • 9.7 Kilometers

OR

After breakfast, we continue our journey back to Mumbuk. After leaving the Barun Valley it is all uphill to the overnight camp in the midst of the alpine forest of Mumbuk. Here we enjoy the day and stroll around.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 3,400m
  • Trekking
  • 15Km

As per your Makalu Base Camp Trek Itinerary, this is your final chance to experience the mesmerizing vistas of the lofty mountains, including Kangchenjunga. You will start your ascent to the Keke La, which will take about 1.5 hours. Reaching the Shipton La, which is 4,200 meters above sea level, will take a further 1.5 hours. You will reach the huge cairn that marks Sano Pokhari Danda at 4,105m after another hour of contouring around the slope.

You will return to the last pass, the Khongma La at 3,890m, which is identified by a mani wall, after another hour of undulations. You will arrive at Khongma after descending about 250 meters, mostly on stone stairs. In the snow between the rhododendron bushes, keep your eyes out for blood pheasants, which are infrequently spotted. From Khongma, you will descend to Danda Kharka, which will take a further two hours.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 6 to 7 Hours
  • 10.3 Kilometers

As you leave the mountains and make the long, steep descent down to civilization, you will have time to consider the breathtaking adventure you have just completed. The three-hour journey from Danda Kharka to Tashi Gaun on your Makalu Base Camp Trekking Route will take you through rhododendron trees, steep terrain, and meadows. You will go across terraced farms from Tashi Gaun with lovely mountain vistas. You will traverse a mountainside after leaving the Makalu-Barun National Park, descend the Barun River, travel through bamboo and rhododendron woods, and then arrive at Seduwa, where you will spend the night at a local lodge.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 7 to 8 Hours
  • 12 Kilometers

All the way down to the Arun River, there will be a long, somewhat difficult trek, mostly on stone stairs. As you descend farther into the forest, the temperature will be quite warm. After crossing the river, you will have to climb all the way back to Num. The path ascends and descends through beautiful woodland before arriving at the town of Num. Drive to Tumlingtar’s scenic surroundings on Nepal’s winding mountain roads. In addition to the breathtaking scene of snow-capped mountains and verdant surroundings, you will also see hillside settlements and terrace farms. Now that you have finished the difficult but worthwhile Makalu Base Camp Trek, you may congratulate yourself.

  • Tea House or Lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • 4 to 5 Hours
  • 8.9 Kilometers

Today, you will take a brief, scenic morning flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. You will be taken to the hotel after you arrive in the city. Friendship World Trek will schedule a farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the accomplishment of the Makalu Base Camp Trek itinerary. Spend your leisure time exploring the city or purchasing gifts for your loved ones back home.

  • 3 Stars Hotel in Thamel
  • Breakfast, and Dinner
  • 35 to 40 Minutes
  • 190 Kilometers

In this pleasant day you may have full day at leisure either relax at hotel or explore the around Thamel. Today is day of ending your journey, so we would like offer you farewell meeting hand over you Trip Certificate, Trekking Permit and TIMS Card for memory of Nepal trip. Today is free or last minute shopping for souvenirs or gift to your family, friends or relatives for you until departure flight/drive.

Three hours before to the flight’s planned departure time, a drop-off in a private tourist car is provided from the hotel to the airport. Our assist will transfer you to the International Airport for your departure flight to your onwards destination, taking with you the memory of a life time. You can extend your stay by selecting a different package from Friendship World Trek.

Departures & Availability

The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.

Check Available Dates
Start Date Price Availability

All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.

Price include

  • Pick up and drop service from/to Kathmandu International airport
  • Star level 3 night’s Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu twin bed sharing basic.
  • Flight ticket to/from Tumlingtar
  • Accommodation during the trekking Tea House/Homestay
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • Down jacket, 4 seasonal sleeping bags, and duffel bag (refundable)
  • Government license holders have experienced Local guides with English Speaking and friendly with their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
  • All necessary papers works and permits.
  • All government and local taxes if necessary
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Porter (between every 2 person basis) Max.20-25 kg. Plus their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment.

Price Excludes

  • International airfare and Nepal Visa fee
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Lunch, and Dinner while you are in Kathmandu
  • Travel/medical insurance
  • Personal expenses like Shopping, souvenirs, or gift.
  • Personal expenses e.g. phone calls, laundry, bar bills, and extra porters
  • Tips for guides and porters (expected at the end of Makalu Base Camp Trek)
  • All kinds of cold and hot drinks including drinking water, Tea, coffee, Chocolate, Cookies, dessert, Phone calls, laundry, and hot showers during the trek.
  • Optional trips and sightseeing if extend.
  • Things which don’t mention above, in our services (Trip Cost Includes)
  • Personal mountaineering gears.

Gears And Equipment

Trip Information

Makalu Base Camp Trek Best Time, Season, Months

The best time to embark on the Makalu Base Camp Trek depends on the traveler’s preference and personal circumstances. Here are two peak seasons for the trek:

  • Spring (March to May): Spring is the best time to trek to Makalu Base Camp if you are looking for clear skies and warm temperatures. During this time, the rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding to the beauty of the trek. The days are sunny, with mild temperatures, making it easier to complete the trek.
  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another ideal time to trek to Makalu Base Camp. The monsoon season is over, and the skies are clear and dry. The temperatures are moderate, with cool nights, making it easier to acclimate to the high altitude. The views of the surrounding peaks are clear and unobstructed, making this the best time for photography.

It’s important to note that the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging and demanding trek, and requires a good level of physical fitness and preparation. The trek can be completed year-round, but it’s essential to take into consideration the weather conditions, as well as the traveler’s personal circumstances and preferences.

Food or Meal Availability on Makalu Base Camp Trek

Due to the higher altitudes seen on the Makalu Base Camp Trek, sufficient nutrition and carbohydrates are needed by the body to support walking. We will provide you with 17 breakfasts, 15 lunches, and 16 dinners during the course of the whole trekking session.

  • 17 Breakfasts: Pancakes, oatmeal, muesli, different kinds of eggs (omelets, poached, and boiled), and different kinds of bread (fried Tibetan bread, buckwheat bread, chapattis, and so on). They are frequently served with honey or jam, and occasionally with apples.
  • 15 Lunches: Universal dal bhat, soups, spaghetti, dumplings, pizza, spring rolls, and a lot more are available. You may also select various things from the lower section, such as sandwiches, macaroni, tendu, spaghetti noodles, thukpa, pasta, pizza (tomato, mushroom, and mixed), etc.
  • 16 Dinners: Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari, Tibetan Bread, Different Soups, Sherpa Stew, Sandwiches, Dumplings, Macaroni, Tenduk, Noodles, Thukpa, Pasta, Vegetable Curry, and Salad are among the available food options.

Accommodation Facility on Makalu Base Camp Trek

Accommodation during the Makalu Base Camp Trek is typically provided in local teahouses or lodges, although there are some camping options available as well. The teahouses and lodges are basic, but they provide a comfortable place to rest and recharge before continuing the trek. They generally have twin- or triple-bedded rooms, with shared bathroom facilities. The teahouses and lodges along the Makalu Base Camp Trek offer a range of basic amenities, such as hot showers (for an extra fee), electricity (usually powered by solar panels), and Wi-Fi (although connectivity can be spotty). They also provide basic meals, snacks, and drinks, which can be purchased for an additional cost.

It’s important to note that the facilities and services available at the teahouses and lodges can vary widely along the trail and that trekkers should be prepared for a more rustic and basic standard of living, especially at higher altitudes. Additionally, trekkers should be prepared for cold temperatures and limited heating options, especially at night.

For those looking for a more authentic and immersive experience, camping is an option during the Makalu Base Camp Trek. This allows trekkers to get even closer to nature, and to experience the beauty of the Himalayas at its most raw and unspoiled. However, camping requires a bit more preparation, as trekkers will need to bring their own camping gear, food, and cooking equipment. Additionally, camping is generally more physically demanding, and trekkers should be prepared for the added weight and volume of the gear they will need to carry.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulty Level

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its remote location and high altitude. The trek is suitable for experienced trekkers and those with a good level of physical fitness. Here are some factors that contribute to the difficulty level of the trek:

  • Altitude: The Makalu Base Camp Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,000 meters, which can be challenging for some trekkers. High altitude requires acclimatization, and trekkers need to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take the necessary precautions.
  • Terrain: The trek takes place in remote and rugged terrain, with steep inclines and rough trails. The trail can be slippery and rocky, and trekkers need to be prepared for long and strenuous days of walking.
  • Length: The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes approximately 14 to 21 days to complete, depending on the itinerary. The length of the trek requires a good level of physical fitness, as well as mental and emotional preparation.
  • Weather: The weather in the Makalu region can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and precipitation. Trekkers need to be prepared for all weather conditions, including rain, snow, and wind.
  • Remote location: The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes place in a remote and isolated region, far from modern conveniences and medical facilities. Trekkers need to be self-sufficient and prepared for the challenges of trekking in remote locations.

Requirements of Travel Insurance during Makalu Base Camp Trek

Travel insurance is an essential aspect of any trekking trip, including the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Here are some of the requirements that travelers should consider when purchasing travel insurance for the trek:

  • Medical coverage: Travel insurance should provide coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation, in case of injury or illness during the trek. The remote location of the Makalu Base Camp Trek means that medical facilities are limited, and emergency evacuation may be necessary in some cases.
  • Trip cancellation coverage: Travel insurance should provide coverage for trip cancellations, including unexpected events such as natural disasters, political unrest, or personal emergencies.
  • Lost or stolen gear coverage: Travel insurance should provide coverage for lost or stolen gear, including camping equipment, clothing, and other personal items.
  • Adventure sports coverage: Travel insurance should provide coverage for adventure sports, including trekking and hiking, in case of accidents or injury.
  • 24/7 assistance: Travel insurance should provide 24/7 assistance, including emergency support, travel advice, and information on local medical facilities.

It’s important to carefully review the details of the travel insurance policy and make sure that it meets the specific needs and requirements of the trek. Travelers should also carry a copy of their travel insurance policy and relevant contact information with them during the trek.

Altitude Sickness and Remedies during Makalu Base Camp Trek

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common condition that affects trekkers at high altitudes. The Makalu Base Camp Trek takes place at altitudes ranging from 2,500 meters to 5,000 meters, and trekkers are at risk of developing altitude sickness. Altitude sickness occurs when the body is unable to acclimatize to the lower levels of oxygen at higher elevations. Here are some of the remedies for altitude sickness during the trek:

  • Acclimatization: The best remedy for altitude sickness is proper acclimatization, which allows the body to gradually adjust to the lower levels of oxygen at higher elevations. This can be achieved by taking rest days, walking at a slower pace, and avoiding overexertion.
  • Hydration: Hydration is also important for preventing altitude sickness, as dehydration can worsen the symptoms. Trekkers should aim to drink at least 3-4 liters of water per day and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter medications, such as acetazolamide and ibuprofen, can help to relieve the symptoms of altitude sickness. However, these medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor, as they can have side effects.
  • Oxygen: In severe cases of altitude sickness, supplemental oxygen may be necessary. Trekkers should carry a portable oxygen canister, and seek medical assistance if they experience symptoms such as severe headache, dizziness, and nausea.
  • Descent: If the symptoms of altitude sickness persist or worsen, the best remedy is to descend to a lower altitude. The descent should always be done under the guidance of a doctor, and trekkers should not attempt to descend alone.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Packing List, Gears, Equipment

Packing appropriately for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is important, as the trek takes place in a remote and isolated location, and access to supplies and amenities is limited. Here is a list of essential items to bring on the trek:

  • Clothing: Warm and waterproof clothing, such as a down jacket, thermal underwear, fleece, and rain gear, is essential, as the weather can be unpredictable and temperatures can drop significantly at night. Comfortable trekking clothes, such as quick-dry shirts and pants, should also be brought, as well as a hat, gloves, and a scarf.
  • Footwear: A sturdy and comfortable pair of trekking boots is essential, as well as a pair of socks and gaiters to keep feet warm and dry.
  • Sleeping gear: A warm and comfortable sleeping bag and a sleeping pad are essential for the trek, as well as a tent for camping.
  • First aid kit: A personal first aid kit should include basic items such as pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatment.
  • Personal hygiene items: Personal hygiene items, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer, should also be brought, as access to restrooms and showers is limited.
  • Backpack: A good quality and comfortable backpack, with a capacity of at least 50 liters, is essential for carrying all of the necessary gear and supplies.
  • Hydration gear: A hydration system, such as a water bottle or hydration bladder, is essential, as well as a water purification system, such as a water purification tablet or straw.
  • Food and snacks: Non-perishable food items, such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit, should be brought, as well as a lightweight and compact stove for cooking.
  • Navigation gear: A map and compass, as well as a GPS device, is essential for navigation, as the trail can be difficult to follow in some areas.

Here are some more items to consider adding to your packing list: Recommended Packing List for Nepal Trekking

Makalu Base Camp Trek Guide and Safety Major

A guide is a crucial part of the Makalu Base Camp Trek, as the trek takes place in a remote and isolated location, and access to information and assistance can be limited. Here are some of the benefits of having a guide on the trek:

  • A local guide has extensive knowledge of the area, including the best trail routes, weather patterns, and the culture and customs of the local people. This can enhance the trekking experience and provide valuable insight into the local culture and way of life.
  • A guide can ensure the safety of the trekkers, and provide assistance in case of an emergency. They can also help to prevent altitude sickness, and provide advice on how to acclimatize properly to high altitude.
  • A local guide can also provide translation services and help to communicate with local people, which can enhance the cultural experience of the trek.
  • A guide can take care of all the logistics of the trek, such as obtaining permits, arranging porters, and booking accommodations. This can help to reduce stress and make the trek more enjoyable.
  • A local guide has extensive experience on the trail and can provide valuable advice and recommendations on the best places to stop and rest, as well as the best places to take photos and admire the scenery.

 

Makalu Base Camp Trek Route Map

makalu-base-cam-trek-map

FAQS

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.

Traveler Reviews

These full and frank reviews are from travelers who have traveled with Ace the Himalaya previously. The reviews and experiences shown here are from reputable travel websites like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trust Pilot, etc.