Makalu Base Camp Trek - 19 Days
Makalu Base Camp Trek 19 Days Overview
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's finest off‑the‑beaten‑path adventures, taking you to the foot of Mount Makalu (8,463m), the world's fifth‑highest peak. Unlike the crowded Everest or Annapurna trails, this trek offers pristine wilderness, rich biodiversity, and an authentic cultural experience in the remote eastern Himalayas.
The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a drive to Num. The trail winds through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Rai, Gurung, and Sherpa villages. You will cross several high passes, including Shipton La and Keke La, and finally reach Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), where the massive south face of Makalu towers directly above you – a sight far more dramatic than Everest Base Camp.
This 19‑day itinerary includes proper acclimatization days and is suitable for experienced trekkers with good fitness. Global Nepal Treks ensures all permits, experienced guides, comfortable teahouse accommodation, and a well‑organized trek. If you seek solitude, stunning mountain views, and a true Himalayan adventure, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is the perfect choice.
Things That You Need to Know
Duration & Difficulty:
This is a 19‑day trek with moderate to challenging difficulty. Daily walking averages 5‑7 hours, with a maximum altitude of 4,870m at base camp (and optional higher viewpoints up to 5,050m). Previous trekking experience is recommended.
Best Season:
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offering stable weather, clear mountain views, and blooming rhododendrons.
Accommodation & Meals:
Accommodation is in basic tea houses (twin sharing). The package includes breakfast only; lunch and dinner are not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose your meals.
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP)
Minimum Group Size Requirement — At least two trekkers with a licensed guide are required; solo trekking is not permitted.
Remote & Solitude:
This is a less‑crowded trek with basic facilities. Be prepared for limited electricity, Wi‑Fi, and hot water. The reward is pristine nature and authentic mountain culture.
Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,106m)
Why an Early Start Matters — Wind picks up significantly by midday at this altitude, making early crossing safer.
Larkya La Pass to Bhimthang Descent
Distance and Time Compared to Other Days — At 27km, this is the longest single day; most other days average 19–25km.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Rest and trip briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Permit Preparation & Sightseeing
Prepare permits and finalize trek arrangements. Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Flight to Tumlingtar & Drive to Num
Morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (410m). Scenic drive to Num (1,560m). Overnight in Num. Lho Village Manaslu Viewpoint — One of the best close-up views of Manaslu (8,163m) along the entire route.
Trek from Num to Seduwa
Trek through forests and villages to Seduwa (1,500m). 5‑6 hours. Overnight in Seduwa.
Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon
Larkya La Pass to Bhimthang Descent — 8–9 hours, 27km, the single longest and hardest day of the trek.
Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda
Steep ascent to Khongma Danda (3,500m). 6‑7 hours. Overnight in Khongma Danda.
Acclimatization Day in Khongma Danda
Rest day. Explore surrounding ridges for panoramic views. Overnight in Khongma Danda.
Trek from Khongma Danda to Dobate
Cross Shipton La and Keke La passes. Descend to Dobate (3,068m). 6‑7 hours. Overnight in Dobate.
Trek from Dobate to Yangri Kharka
Trek through alpine meadows to Yangri Kharka (3,557m). 5‑6 hours. Overnight in Yangri Kharka.
Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka
Continue ascending to Langmale Kharka (4,410m). 5‑6 hours. Overnight in Langmale Kharka.
Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp
Final ascent to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m). 5‑6 hours. Overnight at base camp.
Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp
Rest and exploration day. Hike to higher viewpoints for sunrise over Makalu, Everest, and Lhotse. Overnight at base camp.
Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka
Descend back to Yangri Kharka (3,557m). 6‑7 hours. Overnight in Yangri Kharka.
Trek from Yangri Kharka to Dobate
Continue descent to Dobate (3,068m). 5‑6 hours. Overnight in Dobate.
Trek from Dobate to Danda Kharka
Trek to Danda Kharka (2,900m). 5‑6 hours. Overnight in Danda Kharka.
Trek from Danda Kharka to Seduwa
Descend to Seduwa (1,500m). 5‑6 hours. Overnight in Seduwa.
Trek from Seduwa to Num & Drive to Tumlingtar
Trek back to Num (1,560m). Drive to Tumlingtar (410m). Overnight in Tumlingtar.
Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel. Free afternoon. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Final Departure
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Airport pick‑up and drop‑off in Kathmandu
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu)
- Local jeep transfers (Tumlingtar – Num – Tumlingtar)
- All necessary permits (Makalu Barun National Park, TIMS, Makalu Rural Municipality Permit)
- Tea house accommodation (twin sharing) during the trek (17 nights)
- Breakfast during the trek (19 days)
- Experienced, English‑speaking, government‑licensed trekking guide
- Guide insurance, wages, food, and accommodation
- First aid medical kit and oximeter
Excluded
- International airfare and Nepal visa fees
- Lunch and dinner during the trek (budget approx. $20‑25 per day)
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast on trek days)
- Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, sleeping bag, etc.)
- Travel insurance (mandatory, covering high‑altitude trekking up to 5,500m and emergency evacuation)
Essential Information
Best Time to Visit
Spring Trekking Conditions (March–May) — Blooming rhododendrons, stable weather, the most popular season. Autumn Trekking Conditions (September–November) — Crisp skies, excellent Manaslu and Himlung Himal visibility. Months to Avoid — Monsoon (June–August) and winter (December–February) risk trail closures at Larkya La Pass
Difficulty Level
Challenging — 7–9 hrs/day, 19–27km daily distances, prior high-altitude experience mandatory
Fitness Requirements
Preparation Tips
Safety Measures
Permits Required
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
This trek is challenging and recommended for experienced trekkers with good fitness and prior high‑altitude trekking experience.
What is the highest point?
Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 metres (15,978 feet). Optional viewpoints may reach up to 5,050m.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, a licensed guide is mandatory for this remote trek. Global Nepal Treks provides experienced guides.
What permits are required?
You need a Makalu Barun National Park Permit, TIMS card, and Makalu Rural Municipality Permit. These are included in the package.
What is the best time for this trek?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather and clear mountain views.