· Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites
· Spectacular views of Mount Makalu (8,485m) and surrounding Himalayan giants including Mount Everest (8,848.48), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m) & Baruntse (7,129m)
· Remote trekking experience with few crowds
· Diverse landscapes from tropical forests to glacial valleys
· Trek through pristine wilderness of Makalu Barun National Park
· Scenic mountain flight to Tumlingtar
· Beautiful Barun Valley with rivers, waterfalls, and yak pastures
· Rich biodiversity including rhododendron forests and rare wildlife
· Authentic cultural encounters in traditional mountain villages
· Panoramic viewpoint hikes from Makalu Base Camp
Region: Makalu
Best Season: All Season
Grade: Moderate
Accommodation: Hotels, Lodges, Tea Houses
Max Altitude: 4,870m
Total Elevation Gain: Approx. 7,835m
Total Walk Distance: Approx. 109 km
Total Drive Distance: Approx. 128 km
Total Duration: 19 days
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a demanding and remote Himalayan adventure located in eastern Nepal within the pristine wilderness of Makalu Barun National Park. This trek offers a unique expedition-style experience, leading trekkers through a remarkable range of landscapes from subtropical valleys and terraced farmland to dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high glacial terrain. The journey culminates at the foot of Mount Makalu (8,485m) the fifth-highest mountain in the world, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery.
The route begins with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar followed by a jeep drive to Num, where the trek starts. The trail features significant elevation changes, crossing deep river gorges, remote villages, and forested ridges before entering the spectacular Barun Valley. As altitude increases, the terrain becomes more rugged and alpine, with high passes, yak pastures, and glacial landscapes dominating the upper sections.
Overall, this route offers solitude and an authentic wilderness experience & rewarding with exceptional mountain views, diverse ecosystems, and one of the most remote and unique trekking experiences in the Himalayas.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by one of our representative and then accompany you to the Hotel. In the evening, we will have a meeting at the Hotel to brief you on entire Trip.
This day is reserved for final trek preparations & kathmandu Valley Sightseeeing. You will obtain necessary permits, review equipment, and meet your trekking crew. A gear check ensures proper clothing and altitude readiness.
This day, we will visit 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Capital including Pashupatinath Temple, also Known as Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, also known as “Lord of All Beings”, it is a major pilgrimage site featuring pagoda-style architecture, a golden roof, and a 4-faced Shiva lingam, Boudhanath Stupa, a massive 36m high White-doomed Buddhist Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist Stupa in the world, known for its enormous mandala design and vibrant atmosphere & Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic royal palace complex in the heart of Kathmandu, known for its ancient temples, courtyards, and traditional Newari architecture, home to landmarks like Hanuman Dhoka and the residence of the Living Goddess at Kumari Ghar.
After having early breakfast, we will take a scenic mountain flight to Tumlingtar. From there, we will take a long but adventurous jeep or bus drive follows rugged roads along hillsides and river valleys to reach Num. This day transitions from urban environment to remote eastern Nepal.
Distance: 64km drive |Duration: 3-4 hours’ drive & 35 to 45 min flight
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Today, our trek begins with a steep descent through terraced farmland to the Arun River. After crossing the suspension bridge, a sustained climb leads uphill through forest and villages to Seduwa.
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Today’s trail trail gradually ascends through cultivated fields and small settlements. The terrain alternates between stone staircases and forested paths. Tashi Gaon is the last permanent village, offering expansive views of surrounding ridges.
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A demanding day with a continuous climb through dense rhododendron and oak forest. The vegetation gradually thins as altitude increases. The final section becomes steeper and more exposed, reaching Khongma Danda, a key acclimatization point.
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This day trail crosses several high points along rocky alpine terrain. Weather exposure increases, and views of high Himalayan peaks begin to open. After traversing ridgelines, a descent leads to Dobate.
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Leaving Dobate, the route descends through forested slopes and enters the scenic Barun Valley. The trail follows the river with gradual ups and downs. Yangle Kharka is a wide grazing meadow surrounded by mountains.
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Today, the valley opens significantly as we trek above tree line. The terrain becomes more alpine with glacial moraine and yak pastures. The gradual ascent helps acclimatization before reaching Langmale Kharka.
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Today is the queen stage & demanding day as we reach Makalu Base camp. A steady climb across glacial terrain leads to Makalu Base Camp. The landscape is dramatic, with views of Makalu, Baruntse, and surrounding peaks. Arrival at base camp offers you panoramic Himalayan scenery.
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Today we will leave Base camp & take a long descent towards Yangle Kharka retracing down to the Barun Valley. The drop-in altitude significantly improves oxygen levels and recovery.
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This day trail climbs back toward Dobate through forest and rocky terrain. Moderate but sustained ascent.
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Leaving Dobate, we will cross ridgelines before descending steeply through forested slopes. The day involves mixed terrain and significant downhill sections. The lower altitude brings thicker vegetation and warmer conditions as you approach Danda Kharka.
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Today involves a long descent through dense forest, small villages, and terraced fields.
The final trekking day begins with a descent toward the Arun River followed by a steady climb back to Num. This section retraces the initial route, passing through terraced farmland and small villages. Upon reaching Num, the trekking portion concludes. After lunch, we will take a jeep to tumlingtar which follows rough mountain roads marking the end of the adventure in the Makalu region.
Distance: 7km walk, 64km drive |Duration: 3-4 hours walk, 3-4 hours drive |Ascent +847m |Descent: -926m
According to our flight time, we will go the airport and take a scenic mountain flight to Kathmandu.
You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International airport according to your flight time for your final departure.
“It’s time to say goodbye, with lots of memories made for lifetime”