Makalu Base Camp Trek

Trip Duration
20 Days
Trip Grade
Challenging
Transportation
Jeep / Bus / Flight
Max. Altitude
4,870m
Destination
Makalu Region
Meals
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accomodation
Tea House / Lodge / Tented Camp
Season
March, April, May, September, October, November
Service Package
  • Guide
  • Porter
  • Flight Ticket
  • Transportation
Normal Package
  • Guide
  • Porter
  • Flight Ticket
  • Trekking/Bed/Breakfast
  • Bed & Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • TIMS Card
  • City Sightseeing
  • Airport Pickup and Drop
Deluxe Package
  • Guide
  • Porter
  • Flight Ticket
  • Trekking/Bed/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • Bed & Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • TIMS Card
  • City Sightseeing
  • Airport Pickup and Drop

Trip overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a popular and challenging trek in the Makalu-Barun National Park region of Nepal. It takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, from subtropical forests to high-altitude glaciers, and offers stunning views of the world’s fifth highest mountain, Mount Makalu (8,485m).

Itinerary

Useful Info

  • Trekking duration: The trek usually takes around 18-22 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and your pace.
  • Best time to go: The best time to go for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is from September to November and from March to May, as the weather is generally clear and dry during these months. However, the trek can also be done in the winter months (December to February) and in the monsoon season (June to August), although these times can be more challenging due to the weather conditions.
  • Difficulty level: The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness and trekking experience. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, crossing high-altitude passes, and trekking at high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness. It's recommended to have some previous trekking experience and to be in good physical shape before attempting this trek.
  • Permits: The Makalu Base Camp Trek requires a few permits, including the Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit, the Makalu Conservation Area Entry Permit, and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. You will also need to get a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System).
  • Accommodation and food: Accommodation along the trail is basic and mostly consists of teahouses or camping. You can expect to find simple but comfortable lodges with shared bathrooms and a common dining area. Food options include Nepali, Tibetan, and western dishes, with dal bhat (rice and lentils) being a staple.
  • What to pack: It's important to pack warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, and a good quality backpack. You should also bring a first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle or water purification tablets. It's recommended to pack light and only bring the essentials.
  • Hiring a guide and porter: It's recommended to hire an experienced guide and a team of porters to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. The guide and porters can also help with the logistics and communication with the locals along the way.

FAQs

  • What is the best time to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

    The best time to do the trek is during the spring season (March to May) and the autumn season (September to November) when the weather is relatively stable, and the skies are clear. However, the trek can be done all year round, although the winter months can be quite cold and snowy, and the summer months can be wet and muddy.

  • How difficult is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

    The trek is considered to be a challenging one, and is suitable for experienced trekkers with a good level of fitness. The trek involves walking for 6-7 hours per day on average, with some steep and rocky sections, high altitudes, and potential exposure to harsh weather conditions.

  • Do I need any special permits for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

    Yes, you will need a special permit to do the trek, which can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or through a registered trekking agency.

  • Is it possible to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek independently, or do I need a guide?

    It is possible to do the trek independently, but it is highly recommended to hire a guide and a porter for safety and convenience. A guide can provide valuable information about the trail, the culture, and the environment, and can help you with any problems that may arise.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

    Accommodation on the trek is basic, and consists of teahouses or lodges along the trail. These offer simple rooms with shared bathrooms and basic facilities. It's important to note that the lodges may be more basic and limited in the higher elevations, so it's best to be prepared with the right equipment and gear.

  • What kind of gear do I need for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

    You will need to bring suitable trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag, a backpack, a trekking pole, and other essential items. It's also important to bring a good quality, high altitude tent if you plan on camping along the trail.

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