Makalu Base Camp Trek – 19 Days

Best Time

The Makalu Base Camp Trek can be done in Nepal’s two trekking seasons: March-May Spring and September-November Fall. The weather is generally stable, the temperature is good and visibility is good during these months. The clear skies also offer a great view of the surrounding peaks of the Himalayas, making the hiking experience even more enjoyable.

Spring is a lovely time of the year as the trees and hillsides are coloured with wildflowers, such as rhododendrons. The scenery slowly transitions from green forests to alpine meadows and Rocky Mountains with elevation. Long days of walking are not so strenuous and the weather is generally mild.

The autumn season is also a favorite as well, with clear air from the monsoon rains. On the trails, it is generally dry and the daytime temperature is still pleasant. These will be determined when you are travelling with Mega Treks, where our team will help you pick the best trip date, considering the season and trail conditions.

Distance and Elevation

The total distance of the Makalu Base Camp Trek is around 150 to 160 km, with various sidewalks depending on the route covered in the trek. The journey starts from Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft), then flies to Tumlingtar and drives to Num (1,560 m / 5,118 ft), from which the trekking starts.

The terrain rises slowly through villages, through forests, through river valleys and through alpine areas. It includes acclimatization in the ascent to the high altitude so that the body adapts properly and safely to the elevation. The summit is Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m / 15,977 ft), where you’ll stop to enjoy the wondrous mountain views.

The return leg of the trek goes back through Barun Valley in its beautiful setting and then back to Kathmandu. This trek is rewarding, being steady in both ascent and descent, yet still has a good bit of time to accommodate safely.

Difficulty and Altitude Sickness

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is very difficult in terms of the number of walking days, location and altitude. Trekkers should be ready for some steep climbs, long descents, rough, rocky paths and a few days of walking in a row. It is useful to have done numerous treks, but necessary to have good health and fitness.

Above 3,000 m / 9,843 ft, it may be possible to suffer from altitude sickness. Common symptoms are headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, dizziness and poor sleep. It’s important to look for these signs early to stay safe.

To minimise the chance of altitude-related sicknesses, there is an acclimatisation day at Khongma Danda (3,500 m / 11,482 ft) on the itinerary. As you head up the mountain slowly, taking in ample water, a healthy diet and instructions from your guide, you’ll get used to the new terrain perfectly.

Minimum and Maximum Walk Per Day

Every day on the Makalu Base Camp Trek package, you’re guided on treks related to the terrain and elevation. The typical length of most trekking days is between 5 and 7 hours, with plenty of opportunities for a rest break throughout the day and to gaze upon the scenery along the trail.

The minimum walking day is typically the exploration day at Makalu Base Camp, where walking around the area takes 2–3 hours. The usual trekking distance is between 7 and 15 kms depending on the destination and the trail.

The longest walking day is typically the trek back from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka (approx. 6-7 hrs). The route is challenging some days but has been planned with an incremental ascent so that the trek can be completed at a comfortable pace and with safety.

Accommodation, Food and Drink

The accommodation for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is primarily in simple mountain lodges and teahouses along the way. Rooms are typically simple and normally comprise two beds and blankets. The facilities are more limited at higher elevations due to the remoteness. Most lodges have a shared toilet and common dining area for trekkers to relax at after a long day of walking.

The meals are freshly prepared by the lodge staff and are sufficient in providing energy for trekking. Rice, lentils, vegetables, noodles, soup, potatoes, eggs, fried rice and pancakes are among the meals that you can expect. Certain lodges offer basic foods such as tea, coffee and simple snacks.

Safe drinking water is vital on the way. Most lodges offer boiled water, but water purification tablets or a reusable filter bottle is advised. Mega Treks also asks trekkers to bring a reusable bottle for less plastic usage during the trek.

Alternative Routes

The Makalu Base Camp Trek route goes through the traditional Num, Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma Danda, Yangri Kharka and Makalu Base Camp, then back along the same path. This is the most popular route as it provides for acclimatisation in the beautiful Barun Valley.

For experienced trekkers, the trek is extended with some of the other remote trails of the Himalayas. They take more days of trekking, more planning and physical fitness as they involve more remote areas and higher passes.

The popular route will be a complete experience for most visitors to the Makalu region. Contains traditional villages, dense forests, alpine landscapes, glaciers and spectacular mountain scenery without adding undue difficulties. The classic tour route also offers plenty of time to ensure safe altitude changes along the way.

Can a Beginner Join This Trip?

Though this base camp trek to Makalu is a beginner’s trek, they must be well prepared before they embark on the trek. The challenge of this trek is higher than that of many of the popular treks in Nepal due to its long days of walking, steep terrain and the remote mountain environment. Unlike past trekking experiences, good physical fitness and determination are more important.

Beginners need to begin working out several weeks before the trip, increasing their step count, taking the stairs and working on their endurance. Dressing up for the practice trek in a light pack in preparation for the daily trek also helps condition the body.

When it comes to taking a trip, a very well-organized trip is not just a lot safer, it is also a lot more comfortable. Professional tour assistants track your health, plan your day and offer assistance during your travels. Many people find it easier to reach Makalu Base Camp successfully if they walk at a steady pace, drink plenty of water and follow the instructions of the guide.

Preparation and Fitness

The Makalu Base Camp Trek package demands physical fitness as it involves a lot of days of walking through remote mountain areas. If you are fit before you come to Nepal, you will make the journey more fun and less physically demanding.

Walking, hiking, jogging, cycling or swimming can be incorporated into a training program. Leg and core-strengthening exercises are also beneficial as they help with balance and stamina on uneven terrain. It is recommended to use a small backpack when beginning to train, as it will help your body adjust to carrying additional weight.

It’s also crucial to mentally prepare. Other days are long climbs, variable weather and basic camping and a positive attitude is essential for the trip. Appropriate clothing and boot styles, along with personal gear, can also make a trekking experience safe and enjoyable.

Gadgets, Charging and Internet

The Makalu Base Camp Trek will lead you through remote villages with very limited modern amenities. The majority of lodges have electricity, but charging electronic devices might be an extra cost. However, charging becomes inconsistent as you climb higher, so it is recommended to have a fully charged power bank with you.

Access to mobile networks is available in some of the lower villages, but weak or nonexistent mobile coverage in the higher parts of the trek. Internet connection may be intermittent and not always available. Best way to let family/friends know that communication may not be available for several days.

Pack only essentials (phone, camera, headlamp and power bank). Additional batteries and memory cards are helpful, if you’re a photography enthusiast. Warm electronics overnight as well and they will stay warm or cold mountain nights, which will extend battery life.

Permits

The Makalu Base Camp Trek route is subject to permits and permits must be acquired before entering the prohibited areas along the way. The permits are used to promote conservation efforts and to control the level of tourism in the area. They are usually organized by your trekking agency the night before the trek and will be easy and convenient to do.

The most important permits include the Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit and the local area permit (if applicable). It is recommended to bring the passport and passport-sized photos as they might be required in the application process.

Documentation required for the trek will be presented during the trek and there are permit checkpoints along the trail. Be sure to carry your permits with you until the trip is over. It is best to pre-arrange all permits before you leave Kathmandu to prevent hassle during the trek.

Transportation

The Makalu Base Camp trek package starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. It is a short flight which saves time and in clear weather offers beautiful views of the hills and mountains in Nepal. Once landed, it is on to a scenic drive to Num, where the trek officially begins.

Upon arrival at the end of the trek, you will come back along the same path to Num and then drive to Tumlingtar. The next day, you will return to Kathmandu via flight.

Sometimes the domestic flight schedule may be changed due to the weather conditions in Nepal in the mountain areas. This is why always planning to travel a little extra is always a great idea. If delays in transportation are experienced, Mega Treks will keep a close watch on the schedules and make adjustments if needed.

Travel Insurance

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is done in a far-flung Himalayan area where medical facilities are extremely limited. Therefore, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance before starting the trip. If something goes wrong on the way, it is important to have financial protection in place thanks to a suitable policy.

Your insurance policy should include high altitude trekking up to at least (5,000 m / 16,404 ft), emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation and loss/delay of baggage. These benefits can be quite significant when the weather, disease or injury impacts travel plans.

Please read your Insurance Policy thoroughly before coming to Nepal and know what is covered and what is not. Bring a copy of your insurance with you on the journey – both printed and electronic! The right coverage offers more peace of mind when venturing into the remote Makalu region.

What to Expect from This Trip

The Makalu Base Camp Trek package is a memorable trek through one of the most remote of Nepal’s trekking areas. The trail passes through traditional villages, peaceful forests, deep river valleys, alpine meadows and rugged mountain landscapes, culminating at Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m / 15,977 ft).

As this happens, you’ll see changing scenery due to the elevation change. The lower part of the valley is dotted with green hills and farming communities, whereas the upper part is flanked by glaciers, rocky hills and soaring peaks of the Himalayan mountains. Gradual change of the landscape every day is different and rewarding.

The route is for those willing to risk a less crowded mountain trek. A well-planned trek, with experienced guides, proper acclimatization and with the help of Mega Treks, can be a safe, memorable and rewarding experience in the heart of the eastern Himalaya.