Makalu Base Camp Trekking
Trip Overview
AMT - TREK - 504
Spring & Fall
Challenging
West Col (6,190m/20,303ft)
Teahouses/Lodges
Flight/Jeep or Bus
BB/Full Board
Any
Any
Introduction
Mt. Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world with an altitude of 8,485 meters above from sea level impressively rises on the border between Nepal & China in the world’s highest Mahalangur Himalayan Range of Nepal. Makalu Base Camp Trekking also known as Makalu Circuit Trekking. It is a great opportunity to reach at the base camp of Mt. Makalu at 4,800 meters. The crossing of three major tough and rugged high passes. Sherpani Col at 6,180 at meters, West Col at 6,185 meters and Amphu Lapcha La at 5,845 meters.
We can consider the trek as one of the most challenging trekking in Nepal. Highly recommended for those trekkers who have previous trekking experience and knowledge about the usages of peak climbing gears. Makalu Base Camp Trekking starts from Tumlingtar and leads to the Arun river valley to Sedua and Num. Additionally, the Arun Valley is renowned for its Rudraksha trees, including some of the rarest Rudraksha beads found anywhere, adding a unique spiritual element to this adventurous trek.Then crossing Shipton La Pass to the upper Barun river valley for a close look at Makalu and Chamlang Himal. This trek visit is one of the most remote and seldomly visited areas of Nepal. The Barun valley is a part of a large international protected area under the agreement between the governments of Nepal and China. It covers 2330 sq. km of National Park and 830 sq. km of the conservation area in Nepal alone.
Furthermore:
The Makalu Base Camp Trekking offers very close views of the world’s popular mountains. Namely Mt. Everest (8,848m), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Mt. Makalu (8,485m), Mt. Baruntse (7,129m), Mt. Amadablam (6,812m) and many other major and minor snow-capped mountains.
Makalu Base Camp Trekking Features:
Circuit of world’s 5th highest Mt. Makalu via crossing of challenging high passes: Sherpani Col (6180m), West Col (6185m) & Amphu Lapcha (5845m).
Detailed Itinerary
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 km
Our company representative will welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport and drive you by private vehicle to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Breakfast in the morning, and then start for full day Kathmandu Sightseeing: Pashupati Nath temple, Boudhanath stupa, Patan Darbar Square, Swyambhunath temple, Hanuman Dhoka. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Flight Altitude: 1,285m (Kathmandu) to 518m (Tumlingtar)
Duration: 45 min flight, 4–5 hrs drive
Highlights: Scenic flight over eastern Himalayas, drive through rural villages.
Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Steep descent to Arun River, climb through forest and farmland, entry into Makalu Barun National Park.
Duration: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Gradual climb, beautiful villages, terraced fields, dense forest.
Highlights: Short hikes to higher elevation, rest and altitude adjustment.
Altitude: 3,560m to 3,650m via Shipton La (4,216m)
Duration: 7–8 hours
Passes Crossed: Shipton La (4,216m), Keke La (4,170m), Tutu La (4,075m)
Highlights: Multiple passes, breathtaking views of Makalu and surrounding peaks.
Altitude: 3,650m to 3,557m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Trail through forest, river crossings, pasturelands.
Altitude: 3,557m to 4,410m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Expansive views, grazing yaks, alpine terrain.
Altitude: 4,410m to 5,050m
Duration: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Views of Mt. Makalu, Baruntse, and glaciers; rugged and dramatic landscapes.
Altitude: 5,050m
Highlights: Optional hike to viewpoints for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks.
Altitude: 5,050m to 3,557m
Duration: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Retrace steps, downhill walking.
Altitude: 3,557m to 3,650m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 3,650m to 3,560m
Duration: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Climb back over Shipton La Pass.
Altitude: 3,560m to 2,100m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 2,100m to 1,530m
Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude: 1,530m to 1,560m
Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 1,560m to 518m
Duration: 4–5 hours
Altitude: 518m to 1,285m
Duration: 45 minutes
Highlights: Scenic Himalayan flight.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 km
Our representative will drop you at International Airport as per your flight schedule.
Cost Includes / Excludes
Includes
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 3 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu – Tumlintar in Flight and drive to Num.
- Num - Tumling drive and Fly back to Kathmandu.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map .
- Trekking pole, Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- Required Permits.
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
Excludes
- International Airfare.
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking).
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
- Personal expenses for bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages, hot shower and battery charge during the trek.
- Alcoholic beverage.
- TIPS for Staff.
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Makalu base CampTrek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Clothing
Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.
Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).
Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.
Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.
Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.
2. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.
3. Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
4. Backpack and Accessories
Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.
Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.
Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.
6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.
Sunglasses: UV-protective, high-quality sunglasses to protect against the intense high-altitude sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for sun protection.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medications.
Toiletries: Eco-friendly soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
Camera and Extra Batteries: Since charging can be costly and unreliable at high altitudes.
7. Documents and Money
Passport and Permits: Passport, visa,TIMS card, and entry permit.
Cash: ATMs are not reliable in the mountains, so bring enough Nepali cash for personal expenses.
Customer Reviews
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3+ Reviews
Google
3+ Reviews
D Z
Canada"I feel like we were extremely lucky on this trip taking into account all help we've got from Pradip and his team. Traveling in Covid times is hard enough on it's own, still we had..."
Albert
Australia"Excellent trek with Pralad to EBC Dec 2024 I did a 12 day Everest Base Camp trek with Pralad during December 2024. This was an amazing experience both regarding the stunning nat..."
Mark Jacob Ello
Singapore"We began our Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek on April 26, 2025, and it was truly a journey of a lifetime. Huge thanks to Raj, Pralad, and the entire Adventure Mountain Trek team for..."
Pionner67376382456
India"Oct 2024 I booked EBC with 2 pass(Chola and Renjola Pass) trek. They arranged everything from Kathmandu to Kathmandu in a very efficient way. The guide they allotted Mr. Bhim Rai..."
Jer Van Meirhaeghe
Netherlands"Pralad is the best guide one could ask for! We did EBC trek, beginning of December feels like best period to do this."
Rezwan K
Bangladesh"EBC Trek with Helicopter Return Oct 2022 • Friends A great trip. Well organised, our Guide Shyam had been very helpful. One of us ended up needing a horse and it was promptly ma..."
