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The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging and remote 17–22 day adventure through the untouched wilderness of eastern Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Makalu (8,485m)—the world’s fifth-highest mountain—and passes through some of the most diverse and pristine ecosystems in the Himalayas.
Unlike popular routes like the Everest or Annapurna treks, the Makalu Base Camp trail winds through lush rhododendron forests, high-altitude alpine meadows, and glacial moraine landscapes with minimal crowds. Highlights include the Barun Valley, views of Mount Everest and Lhotse, and a profound sense of solitude in the shadow of towering peaks.
The journey begins with a flight to Tumlingtar and a drive to Num, from where the trek follows a steep and scenic trail through the Makalu-Barun National Park—a protected area home to red pandas, Himalayan tahr, and over 3,000 species of flowering plants.
This trek is best suited for experienced trekkers seeking high-altitude adventure, biodiversity, and cultural immersion in one of Nepal’s last great Himalayan wildernesses. With proper acclimatization and an expert guide, the Makalu Base Camp Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience far from the commercial trekking circuits.
Flight Time: 45 minutes | Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
Take a scenic morning flight to Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal. From there, drive through mid-hill landscapes, remote villages, and subtropical forests to reach the village of Num—the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp trek.
Overnight: Teahouse in Num
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Descend steeply through terraced fields and forest to cross the Arun River via a suspension bridge. Then begin a steady climb up to Seduwa, passing cardamom farms and bamboo groves. Seduwa is the entrance to Makalu-Barun National Park.
Overnight: Teahouse in Seduwa
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Continue the trek uphill through a series of small villages and forests rich with rhododendron and bamboo. Tashigaon is the last permanent settlement en route to the base camp.
Overnight: Teahouse in Tashigaon
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Climb steeply through lush forest, crossing multiple stone staircases and ridges. The trail eventually opens up to alpine terrain, reaching Khongma Danda—a high ridge with stunning mountain views.
Overnight: Teahouse in Khongma Danda
Optional Hike: 1–2 hours
Take a well-earned rest day to adjust to the altitude. Short hikes above camp offer panoramic views of surrounding valleys and peaks. Essential for safe acclimatization before crossing high passes.
Overnight: Teahouse in Khongma Danda
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
A challenging day crossing three high passes: Keke La (4,170m), Shipton La (4,229m), and Tutu La (4,080m). Descend through rhododendron forests to the remote outpost of Dobate.
Overnight: Teahouse in Dobate
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Descend into a lush gorge and follow the Barun River through mossy forests and past waterfalls. The trail then climbs gradually to the yak pastures of Yangri Kharka.
Overnight: Teahouse in Yangri Kharka
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Gradual ascent through alpine meadows, passing herders’ huts and mani walls. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks en route to Langmale.
Overnight: Teahouse in Langmale Kharka
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Follow glacial moraines and rocky terrain to reach Makalu Base Camp. Enjoy awe-inspiring views of Mt. Makalu (8,485m)—the world’s fifth highest peak—along with surrounding giants like Peak 6 and Baruntse.
Overnight: Teahouse at Makalu Base Camp
Optional Hike: 2–3 hours
Spend the day exploring glacial lakes, ridges, and viewpoints near base camp. Side hikes offer closer views of Makalu's south face and the Barun Glacier.
Overnight: Teahouse at Makalu Base Camp
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Retrace your steps down through alpine terrain to Yangri Kharka, passing Langmale and the yak pasturelands along the way.
Overnight: Teahouse in Yangri Kharka
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Continue descending through forested trails along the Barun River gorge, with lush vegetation and waterfalls marking the return path to Dobate.
Overnight: Teahouse in Dobate
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
A long ascent over the high passes again—Shipton La and Keke La—rewarding you with final views before returning to Khongma Danda.
Overnight: Teahouse in Khongma Danda
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Descend steeply through forest and rhododendron to reach the Sherpa village of Tashigaon once again, where greenery and lower altitude feel refreshing.
Overnight: Teahouse in Tashigaon
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Retrace your steps down to Seduwa and climb back up the ridge to Num. This marks the final trekking day of the journey.
Overnight: Teahouse in Num
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
Take a long and scenic jeep ride back through hill villages and winding mountain roads to reach Tumlingtar. Enjoy a relaxing evening before your flight the next day.
Overnight: Lodge in Tumlingtar
Flight Time: 45 minutes
Take a morning or mid-day flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy final views of the Himalayas from the air as you return to the capital city.
Trip Ends: Connect to your hotel or onward travel
