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Embark on a solitary journey to Makalu Base Camp, a premier destination for lone adventurers seeking to explore high-altitude terrains, snow-clad landscapes, and the vibrant ethnic Himalayan lifestyle. This trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
Your adventure begins with a scenic hour-long flight to Tumlingtar, followed by the real trek starting from Chichila. The lower reaches of the trail are a lush paradise, adorned with verdant rhododendron forests, while the upper reaches reveal majestic polished granite cliffs, capped by hanging glaciers and adorned with cascading waterfalls.
The 22-day Makalu Base Camp Trek is perfect for avid trekkers and nature enthusiasts who crave solitude and tranquility in a pristine natural environment. This trek offers a unique escape from the crowds, allowing you to fully embrace the untouched beauty and serenity of the Himalayas.
Day 01 Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar then drive to Chichira
Day 02 Chichira to Num
Day 03 Num to Seduwa
Day 04 Seduwa to Tashigaon
Day 05 Tashigaon to Khongma Danda
Day 06 Acclimatization/Rest
Day 07 Khongma Danda to Dobato
Day 08 Dobato to Yangla Kharka
Day 09 Yangla Kharka to Langmale Kharka
Day 10 Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp
Day 11 Explore Makalu Base Camp
Day 12 Makalu Base Camp to Yangla Kharka
Day 13 Yangla Kharka to Dobato
Day 14 Dobato to Khongma Danda
Day 15 Khongma Danda to Tashigaon
Day 16 Tashigaon to Seduwa
Day 17 Seduwa to Num
Day 18 Num to Chichila to Tumlingtar
Day 19 Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
The weather patterns on the Makalu Base Camp trek vary throughout the year, reflecting the distinct seasons of the region. Like other areas in Nepal, Makalu experiences four distinct seasons: Spring (March-May), Summer/Monsoon (June-August), Autumn (September-November), and Winter (December-February).
One of the best seasons for trekking in Nepal is Spring, which begins in March and lasts until May. This time of year, is characterized by a delightful ambiance, calm weather, and warm sunny days. The Makalu trek is particularly enjoyable in the spring, offering the best views of the Himalayan mountains and surrounding landscapes. The temperature is moderate, with mornings and evenings being slightly chilly. Overall, the weather during spring is ideal for trekking in the Makalu region.
The Makalu Base Camp trek begins in Tumlingtar, located in the mid-eastern region of Nepal. This high-altitude trek encompasses a variety of landscapes, including lush rhododendron forests, picturesque Gurung villages, river valleys, and the Makalu Barun National Park. As you ascend, you'll encounter breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayas, high-altitude lakes, and challenging mountain passes before reaching the rugged base camp.
This trek, while long and strenuous, is perfect for avid trekkers and nature enthusiasts who prefer tranquil, pristine environments over crowded trails. Situated at 5100 meters, Makalu Base Camp offers a gradual ascent that allows for proper acclimatization. From base camp, you'll witness the awe-inspiring Barun Glacier, the south face of Makalu (8,481m), and a sweeping panorama of Everest and Lhotse. Trekkers have ample time to explore the surrounding lakes and glaciers before descending through green forests and valleys.
On the return journey, you will cross the Tutu La Pass (4,125m), also known as Shipton’s Pass. Named after the renowned mountaineer Eric Shipton, who played a significant role in the early expeditions to Mount Everest in the 1930s, this pass was part of the team that mapped the famous route over the Khumbu Glacier in 1951.
Makalu Barun National Park, rich in biodiversity, is home to 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 species of birds, and 75 species of mammals, including the snow leopard, red panda, musk deer, wild boar, wild yak, and Himalayan Thar. This trek offers a unique blend of opportunities to spot wildlife at lower altitudes, experience green pastures, fields, villages, and forests, and traverse snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and rocky trails—making it an ideal adventure for photography enthusiasts.
Take a domestic flight (1 hr) from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (570 m / 1,870 ft), then drive 4–5 hours (70 km) to Chichira. Overnight in local lodge, preparing for trekking.
Trek 15 km (6–7 hrs), ascending gradually through farmland and small villages. Overnight in Num at a local teahouse.
Trek 12 km (5–6 hrs), gradually climbing through forests and suspension bridges. Enjoy views of river valleys. Overnight in Seduwa lodge.
Trek 10 km (5–6 hrs) with moderate ascent. Pass through villages, terraced fields, and pine forests. Overnight at Tashigaon.
Trek 11 km (5–6 hrs) ascending into higher alpine zones. Enjoy panoramic views of Makalu and surrounding peaks. Overnight in Khongma Danda.
Rest and acclimatize at altitude (3,000–3,200 m). Optional short hikes to nearby viewpoints. Prepare for higher altitude trekking ahead.
Trek 10 km (4–5 hrs), ascending further into alpine terrain. Trail passes pastures, rocky landscapes, and small streams. Overnight in Dobato lodge.
Trek 12 km (5–6 hrs), gradually climbing. Yangla Kharka is a yak pasture area with stunning views of Makalu region. Overnight in lodge or tents.
Trek 8–10 km (4–5 hrs), ascending through alpine terrain and moraines. Langmale Kharka is another yak pasture stop. Overnight in tents/lodges.
Trek 8 km (5–6 hrs) with steep ascent. Pass glaciers and rugged terrain to reach Makalu Base Camp. Overnight in tents at Base Camp.
Optional short hikes around Base Camp for acclimatization and photography. Observe the surrounding peaks: Makalu, Chomo Lonzo, and Baruntse. Overnight at Base Camp.
Descend 10 km (5 hrs) back to Yangla Kharka. Enjoy views of glaciers and alpine meadows. Overnight in lodge.
Descend 12 km (4–5 hrs) through alpine terrain and pastures. Overnight in Dobato lodge.
Trek 10 km (4–5 hrs), descending gradually. Pass rocky trails and small settlements. Overnight in Khongma Danda.
Descend 11 km (4–5 hrs) through forests and farmland. Overnight in Tashigaon lodge.
Trek 10 km (4–5 hrs) descending through forests and river valleys. Overnight in Seduwa lodge.
Trek 12 km (5–6 hrs) with gentle descent. Pass villages and farmland. Overnight in Num.
Trek 15 km (~6–7 hrs) to Chichira, then drive 70 km (~4–5 hrs) to Tumlingtar. Overnight in local lodge.
Take a domestic flight (1 hr) from Tumlingtar back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel or airport for onward travel.
Makalu Base Camp Trek
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