The Complete Guidebook for Makalu Base Camp Trek

Image Credit: https://trekventurenepal.com/trip/makalu-base-camp-trek/

This pristine journey takes you to Makalu adventure ice col, high-altitude terrains, and ethnic Himalayan lifestyle.  You’ll witness Mt. Makalu (8463 m), the fifth highest peak in the world.

Located 19km to the southeast of Mt. Everest, this mountain is a part of the Mahalangur Himalayan range. It’s also known as Makalu Barun National Park, which is located at the height of 5250 meters. It lets you experience tropical and subtropical climates in the lower part of the Makalu Barun National Park trek.  In the upper part, it consists of an alpine and arctic climatic zone. 

Observing multiple ethnic groups people, their customs, culture, tradition, and way of living enrich your journey. All the multi-cultured people and diverse flora-fauna can be seen in the lower part. After crossing Arun River the trail goes all the way up to Makalu Base Camp crossing several passes, streams, Jungle, and meadows.

This remote and wilderness trekking to Makalu Base Camp is the most popular trekking to explore the majestic Himalayas, high-altitude terrains, and snow-covered landscapes. Ethnic culture and great hospitality significantly attract your attention during the journey.

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Chapter 1: Makalu Base Camp Trek Routes and Maps

This trek starts at Tumglingtar, in the east of Nepal after an air flight from Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar, your trekking begins towards Kauma where you will take a day off for acclimatization. Then, you gradually ascend on the rugged and forested site to reach Base Camp.

Chapter 2: Best Time to Trek Makalu Circuit

The most preferred time to trek in this destination is similar to other trekking sites in Nepal. Autumn and Spring would be the best time. Autumn falls during the month of September, October, and November whereas Spring falls in the month of March, April, and May.

Chapter 3: Choosing the Best Makalu Trek Operator

It takes you across the Makalu Barun National Park trek and is one of the most popular and visually stunning journeys in Nepal. Hundreds of tour companies offer the trek in Makalu claiming to be the best. However, you should look for highly-rated authentic and registered company which can provide service quality and reasonable price points.

Chapter 4: Makalu Trek Cost

Makalu trek itinerary cost depends on the services you prefer. Most of the trek packages offered by agencies cover the cost of accommodation, meals, transportation, porter, and guide. Besides, travel insurance and other personal expenses like bar bills, hot showers, telephone & internet access may increase.

Chapter 5: Makalu Trek Visa and Permit

This trek takes you through the protected areas- Makalu National Park and the Makalu Conservation Area. It requires to have two types of permits- Makalu Barun National Park Permit and a Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card. The good news is most the trekking company arrange this permit in their package, so you don’t have to worry.

Chapter 6: Makalu Trek Packing List

Before deciding to pack the things, you should check out the characteristics of the trek which you are going to undertake and the season in which you are coming to Nepal. Proper consideration of weather conditions, altitude, trail conditions, and time is a great help to pack the right and necessary items.

Chapter 7: Makalu Trek Accommodation and Food

Accommodation facility in the teahouse/lodge/hotel and homestays during Makalu base camp region is very basic.  They are on a twin-shared basis. A single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional charge. You’ll be served authentic Nepalese local food in the trekking region as well as the more common international cuisine in Kathmandu.

Chapter 8: Makalu Trek Ground Transportation

The journey to this region begins from Kathmandu and either takes about an hour flight or 18 hours bus drive to Khandabri. From Khabari about 4 hours of off-road drive reaches Num village using a private vehicle. Then, your real trek kicks off to base camp, and after conquering the destination, you return back following the same trail.

Chapter 9: Makalu Trek Internet and Telephone Network

Telecommunication services are limited during this trek. The connectivity is robust and reliable at lower altitudes. It gets more uncommon and more fragile as you go higher. GSM and CDMA connectivity of NTC and Ncell is out there with an online connection. Wi-Fi connectivity may be a distant wish.

Chapter 10: Makalu Trek Guides and Porters

Many tour agencies in Nepal serve you with their excellent services and experienced as well as qualified working staff, guides, and porters. Restricted areas in this region don’t allow you without guidance. A bilingual guide who is experienced with local routes and has extensive cultural knowledge can be worth your trip.

Chapter 11: Makalu Trek Difficulty and Safety

Despite being the fifth highest mountain of Nepal, you’ll get Makalu base camp trek difficulty is moderate. One may face some difficulties during this trek. Altitude sickness, weather conditions, remoteness, and physical fitness significantly impact the trek’s success. With some preventive measures and preparations, you will be able to minimize these difficulties during your trek.

Chapter 12: Best Makalu Trekking Reports

Tejanath Pokharel has prepared the report trek report for this region. It provides information about the lodging and fooding facilities available along the route from Khandbari to Makalu Base Camp (MBC). Such information may help you in designing and organizing treks for independent trekkers or groups along this route.

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Where is Makalu Base Camp Trek Located?

The trek is located in the Makalu Barun National Park which begins from Tumlingtar in the mid-eastern region of Nepal. This national park is at the height of 5250 meters.  It covers an area of 2330 sq. km extending around the Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts.

The fifth highest mountain in the world Mt. Makalu is situated in the Makalu Barun trek region with an elevation of 8463m here. It lies at the border of Nepal and Tibet Autonomous Region, China, located 19km to the southeast of Mt. Everest.

The panorama of the highest mountain in the world such as Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Chamlang, Mount Makalu, and other mountain peaks fascinate you.

TravellersQuest’s Ultimate Guide to Makalu Base Camp Trek

Trekking in the Makalu region offers a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience. It houses some quiet trails, vibrant terraced farmland, rural cultures, rhododendron forests, rare wildlife, and several 8,000-meter-plus peaks.

Makalu Base Camp Trek is a true nature’s gem art that seems to be delicately carved. One of the rarely traveled trekking routes, it has a unique topography with gleaming glacial lakes overlooking the base camp.

This trek is an ideal trek for nature-loving trekkers who want to experience a variety of landscapes and cultures, as well as uncommon views of some of the world’s tallest mountains, including Everest.

Chapter 1: Makalu Base Camp Trek Routes and Maps

Image Credit: https://touristlinktrek.com/makalu-circuit-trek/

Taking a plane flight from Kathmandu to Tumglingtar in the East of Nepal, your trekking expedition officially begins after a three- and half-hour rickety drive. As you reach the trekking point, it heads up the Arun River valley to Sedua and Num.  

This stretch of the trek will see us crossing some really high passes like the Shipton La, (4210 m) into the upper Barun river valley. There you witness Makalu and Chamlang Himal.

The acclimatization will be in Kauma for this Makalu base camp trek. You will enjoy a day exploring around the base camp to experience the Himalayas and beautiful views. Then you will trek back to Num village through the same trail and fly back to Kathmandu.

Getting to the Trail Head

The trail for this trek starts from Num village of Sankhuwasabha district in eastern Nepal.  After 45 minute long flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, and driving for another five to six hours via Khandbari you reach to Num.  Daily flights operate from the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Tumlingtar.

The trail takes you deep into the mountains to the base of the fifth-highest Mt. Makalu towering at 8481 meters. It receives fewer footfalls compared to Everest Base Camp (EBC), Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), and Annapurna Circuit.

Makalu Base Camp Trek:

This trek lies between Nepal’s trekking regions of Everest and Kanchenjunga in the west and east respectively. It’s in the Makalu Barun National Park, the eighth largest national park in Nepal.

Trekking on this site begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. During your Makalu trek, you will begin trekking towards Khadbari from Tumlingtar, and then to Chichila. Leaving Chichila behind you will head to Tashi Gaon via Num and Sedua.

During the trial, you will pass several small villages and leads you to Kauma where you will take a day off for acclimatization. From here onwards, you will gradually ascend the rugged and forested trail to reach Makalu Base Camp. Before reaching the base camp, you will also pass by Mumbuk, Neha Khadka, and Sherson.

For this whole trekking Makalu, you’ll take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to Num. After an overnight stay at the lodge in Num, the actual trek begins in the warm, terraced farmland of Rai village.

The route mostly ascends through rhododendron forests (especially incredible in spring), alpine meadows, and, remote typical villages. When you trek higher you will reach Sherpa villages. Beyond the last villages of Tashi Gaon, you will only find Makalu base camp trek teahouses for overnight stays.

After 5 to 6 days trek from Tashi Goan will reach Makalu Base Camp at the height of 4,900 meters from sea level. You will spend one day on exploration around Base Camp. Enjoy the most picturesque view of Mt. Makalu (8463m), Lhotse (8414m), Everest (8848m), Baruntse (7152m), and several other peaks of the region.

 After exploring the base camp, you’ll descend back to Tashi Gaon following the same route which you used. Further, the trail will lead you to the beautiful village, Pakuwa from where you will drop down to Bumling and then to Tumlingtar, and fly back to Kathmandu.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Map

Map of this trekking enhances your trekking experience. It shows an accurate overview of the trip with enough information. Providing a detailed trail route becomes an extremely handy and visual guide. The map accurately portrays the trails for the Makalu base camp trek with other geographical features like glaciers, lakes, peaks, rivers, and religious sites.

The trail as shown on the map leads you to the foot of the world’s fifth highest peak. It clearly mentions the pristine wilderness of Makalu Barun National Park. This well-known park also has great variety and contrast of scenery with every day bringing a rich selection of scenic rewards as you climb from 700m to over 5,000m.

Sample 21 days Makalu trek itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2: Trek preparation day

Day 3: Kathmandu – Tumlingtar (1,040 m) by flight and drive to Num (1490M)

Day 4: Num (1490 m), starting point of Makalu trek– Sedua (1460 m- 5/6 hrs Hiking)

Day 5: Sedua (1460 m) – Tashi Gaun (2070 M – 5 hrs Hiking)

Day 6: Tashi Gaon (2070 m) – Kauma (3470 m – 6 hrs Hiking)

Day 7: Acclimatization day in Kauma (3470 m)

Day 8: Kauma (3470 m) – Mumbuk (3570 m – 5 hrs Hiking)

Day 9: Mumbuk (3570 m) – Neha Kharka (3000 m – 6 hrs Hiking)

Day 10: Neha Kharka  (3000 m) – Sherson (4615 m – 7 hrs Hiking)

Day 11: Sherson (4615 m) – trekking in Makalu Base Camp (5000 m – 4/5 hrs                Hiking) region

Day 12: Explore Makalu Base Camp during this trekking in Makalu

Day 13: Makalu Base Camp to Neha Kharkha (3000 m)

Day 14: NehaKharka (3000 m) – Mumbuk (3570 m)

Day 15: Mumbuk (3570 m) – Kauma (3470 m)

Day 16: Kauma (3470 m) – Tashi Gaun (2070 m)

Day 17: Trek to Pakuwa (1520 m)

Day 18: Pakuwa (1520 m) – Bumling (1160 m)

Day 19: Bumling – Tumlingtar (860 m)

Day 20: Fly to Kathmandu from Tumlingtar

Day 21: Final Departure to your home country

Makalu Barun National Park trek:

This trek is located on the trekking route to Mt. Makalu Base Camp covering an area of 2330 sq. km. It extends around the Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts of Nepal. The National Park and its most dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife, plants, and animals.

Housing nearly 3,000 species of plants, 441 birds, and 78 mammals, it includes the endangered snow leopard and red panda. As a protected area, it contributes to Nepal’s last pristine wilderness.

Normally the trekking in the Makalu region begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar in mid-eastern Nepal for 45 minutes. Then it follows the same route as to Base Camp trekking route. You pass Keke la (4230) and Tutu La (4210m) that goes up to Yangle Khanrka.  Sherpa, Gurung, and Rai are the main habitats in this area.

Sample 17 days itinerary for Makalu Barun National Park trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and preparation for the trek

Day 3: Kathmandu – Tumlingtar (1,040 m) by flight and drive to Num from (1490M): 4-5 hrs

Day 4: Trek from Num to Seduwa (1540m): 5-6 hrs

Day 5: Trek from Seduwa to Tasi Gaum (2070m): 5-6 hrs

Day 6: Trek from Tasigaun to Khongma (3550 m): 5-6 hrs

Day 7: Trek from Khongma to Dobato (3510m): 4-5 hrs

Day 8: Trek from Dobato to Yangre Kharka (3557m): 4-5 hrs

Day 9: Yangre Kharka Rest Day. Exploration day (3557m) for Makalu base camp trek

Day 10: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Dobato: 5-6 hrs

Day 11: Trek from Dobato to Khongma: 5-6 hrs

Day 12: Trek from Khongma to Tasigaun: 5-6 hrs

Day 13: Trek from Tasigaun to Seduwa: 5-6 hrs

Day 14: Trek from Seduwa to Num: 5-6 hrs

Day 15: Drive from Num to Khandbari: 3-4 hrs

Day 16: Drive from Khandbari to Tumlingtar, Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu

Day 17: Departure to your home country

Makalu Base Camp and Barun Valley Trek:

Makalu Barun Valley trek lies within the periphery of the national park. This valley and Makalu Barun region is an abode to many species of vegetation and wildlife including rhododendrons, orchids, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Musk Deer, Wild Boar, and Wild Yak, and Himalayan Thar.

 In addition, it becomes home to more than 420 varieties of bird species. You’ll also observe the spiny babbler, the bird only found in Nepal.

Thus, Makalu Base Camp and Barun Valley trekking is getting popularity among solitude lovers as well as to experience wild and exotic nature in its undisturbed form.

Sample 23 days itinerary for Makalu Base Camp and Barun Valley Trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trek preparation day

Day 3: Fly to Tumlingtar (518m) and drive to Chichira (1980m): 5-6 hrs

Day 4: Trek from Chichira to Num (1560m): 6-7 hrs

Day 5: Trek from Num to Seduwa (1500m): 5-6 hrs

Day 6: Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaon (2100m): 5-6 hrs

Day 7: Trek from Tashi Gaon to Kahuma Danda (3500m): 6-7 hrs

Day 8: Rest day at Kahuma Danda (3500m)

Day 9: Trek from Kauma to Mumbuk (3570m): 5-6 hrs

Day 10: Trek Mumbuk to Nehe Kharka (3750m): 6-7 hrs

Day 11: Trek from Nehe Kharka to Sherson (4600m): 5-6 hrs

Day 12: Trek from Sherson to Makalu Base Camp (5000m): 5-6 hrs

Day 13: Explore Makalu Base Camp (4870m)

Day 14: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Nhe Kharka (3000m): 5-6 hrs

Day 15: Trek from Nhe Kharka to Mumbuk (3570m): 5-6 hrs

Day 16: Trek from Mumbuk to Kauma (3470m): 5-6 hrs

Day 17: Trek from Kauma to Tashi Gaon (2070m): 5-6 hrs

Day 18: Trek from Tashi Gaon to Balung (760m): 5-6 hrs

Day 19: Trek from Balung to Pukuwa (1520m): 5-6 hrs

Day 20: Trek from Pukuwa to Bumling (370m): 6-7 hrs

Day 21: Trek from Bumling to Tumlingtar (460m): 5-6 hrs

Day 22: Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu

Day 23: Departure to home country

Chapter 2: Best Time Trek Makalu Base Camp

Image Credit: https://www.nestadventure.com/blog/best-time-for-makalu-base-camp-trek/

Trekking in Nepal is mostly based on monsoon and weather conditions. If you are wondering when would be an ideal time to hit a beautiful adventurous trek. Don’t worry. Here you’ll get everything you need to know about the best time and their best qualities for the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Autumn Season

Autumn is the best time for adventurous trekking. Starting from mid-September and lasting up to Late-November, this season will be the most favorable one to trek in Makalu.

The weather during autumn is clear and soothing.  The temperature can’t be harsh so you can easily make your trek without freezing or being burned by the heat.

However, the freezing point during this Makalu region trek is different from the soaring of altitude. The temperature drops 6°C on average at every 1,000 meters you gain in altitude. High passes are less likely to be blanketed with snow from September to November.

The unexpected nature of changing weather in the Himalayas, warns you to be extra attentive to cross high passes in the area. The rain, fog, and cloud cover can disrupt the flight schedule as well from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar.

Apart from the clear skies making your trek more magical and memorable, most of the big festivities of Nepal lie in Autumn. Experiencing these festivities and the unique culture makes your journey much more memorable and exciting.

Spring Season

Embarking on any high-altitude trek, a trekker needs to consider the perfect time. The Spring season is one of the best times for trekking Makalu base camp. Spring starts in early March and ends in May. These months provide you with the best mountaineering and trekking experience.

You’ll have clear weather during this season. Also, this season brings forth a wide range of exotic flora and fauna for you to witness. Greenery and a myriad of colors beautify the surroundings in this season. The whole mountainside brings the full bloom of wildflowers and Rhododendron.

The glorious peaks can be clearly seen from the trails. From small villages underneath to the beautiful glaciers formed, everything can be clearly visible to your eyes mesmerizing you during this season.

Before venturing out on this Makalu region Nepal trek, you should know the weather conditions.

Winter Season

The Winter season for Makalu base camp trekking is considered as offseason; however, you can reap the unique trekking experience with some extra benefits. The Winter season starts in early December and is mostly cold as you reach high altitudes during the trek. You can make the trek in February as the temperature gets warmer and the trails more feasible.

If you prepare well and manage the best even in erratic weather conditions, you can trek even in the off-seasons. It lets you experience unique and exceptional moments with wonderful and outstanding views. But, it’s wise to avoid crossing three passes Kauma La, Tutu La, and Keke La during your Makalu Nepal trek.

The best part of hiking during the off-season is, that the number of trekkers will go down significantly. However, you will get the best opportunities to enjoy food and accommodation at cheaper and discounted rates. The Manaslu base camp trek tea houses offer special discounts on their services during winter.

Summer Season

As for the summer season, Nepal experiences monsoon and it’s a not-so-favorable time for trekking. The trails get slippery and wet making it harder for you to enjoy your trek.

In the lower altitudes of Nepal, you may observe heavy rainfall during this season. It may cause floods and landslides. Due to the rise in temperatures and heavy rain, and humid weather, insects like mosquitoes and leech can cause problems during trekking.

Thus, you’re suggested to choose the Autumn and Spring seasons for your trek for a safe and adventurous journey in the Makalu Region. However, you can entertain special offers and discounts on accommodation and food in the summer season while trekking Makalu base camp.

Chapter 3: Choosing the Best Makalu Trek Operator

Image Credit: https://www.nepaltrekhub.com/makalu-base-camp-trek

Are you planning to explore one of the most remote treks in Nepal? Has the Makalu Base Camp trek ever interested you? Are you wandering to which trekking company in Nepal to choose from? Continue reading.

Hundreds of trekking companies are offering the trek in Makalu Nepal. They all claim as the best in this field. However, you require to research well on all available travel agencies. Compare different ratings received from the authentic organizations, service quality, and price points.

Make sure you join a reputable and safe company that will organize a wonderful Makalu trek. Poorly-rated tour operators are a big warning to avoid traveling with them. Most experienced operators in the field with the right people and quality service can be your right choice.

Find an authentic and registered company that is affiliated and accredited by the Nepal Tourism Board, The Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal.  Look for whether they offer 100% tailor-made itineraries, 24/7 customer support, and the best price guarantee.

Some tour agencies to operate trekking in the Makalu region:

Asia Horizon Tour

This trekking agency is well-grounded in providing the best and safest journey. Highly backed up with enough manpower and necessary resources, it concentrates on excellent services. So, many rating platforms have rated it as the best trekking agency for this destination.

High Venture Plus

For this trek, this trekking agency is the most reviewed and highly-rated company in Nepal. It has garnered hundreds of reviews that praise the company’s affordability, safety, and support. High venture Plus has a 99% trusted rate on Tripadvisor.

Access Nepal tour and trekking

This tour agency is one of the top-rated and most reviewed trekking companies for Manaslu trek Nepal. Past trekkers talk about the affordable prices, uncompromising safety, and 24/7 dedicated support. They have received a rating of 97% on Tripadvisor.

Mosaic Adventure

Becoming the most highly reviewed and top-rated trekking company in Nepal, it has a professional approach, high-level safety measures, affordable prices, and 24/7 support. Mosaic Adventure has received a 98% rating on Tripadvisor and Tour radar.

Nepal Trekking Experts Pvt. Ltd.

Providing affordable prices, tailor-made itineraries, and unwavering support, it has received a 98% rating on Trip Advisor.  This makes it one of the most recognized and trusted Makalu Base Camp tea house trek companies worldwide.

Himalayan Glacier

It is a top-rated and highly reviewed trekking agency in Nepal. This agency has been praised for its affordable prices, safety, and 24/7 dedicated support.  And, it has gained more than 400 reviews that account for a 95% rating.

Mountain Delights Treks & Expedition

When referring to Mountain Delights Treks and Expedition, past trekkers speak of professionalism, affordable prices, continual support, and tailor-made Makalu base camp trek itineraries. Because of its services, this tour agency has received a perfect 100% trust and satisfaction rate on TripAdvisor.

Outshine Adventure

Trekkers experienced with its facilities have praised it for its affordability, safety, and support. It has received a rating of 100% on Tripadvisor. Now, it’s one of the most reviewed and highly rated travel agencies in Nepal.

Odea Services

Previous trekkers speak of its reasonable price point, safety, professionalism, and 24/7 support. Due to these high-quality services, it has earned a 99% rating on Trip Advisor. Now, it’s one of the highly rated and reviewed trekking agencies in Nepal.

Info Nepal Treks and Expedition

Trekkers who embarked on their journey with it, talk of their affordability, safety, support, and professional approach. It has amassed a 97% rating on Tripadvisor becoming one of the most reviewed and highly rated trek providers of in Nepal.

Chapter 4: Makalu Trek Cost

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This adventurous journey in the heart of eastern Nepal will particularly cost you depending on your travel itineraries and the preferred services. Getting permits for restricted areas – Makalu Barun National Park and Makalu Conservation Area bears additional cash.

As most trail involves remote and isolated parts, the entire journey will be a super exciting, wild, and off-the-beaten trail experience.

Tentative Makalu Base Camp trek cost can be calculated categorically as below:

Tour itineraries package cost includes:

• Airport transportation
• Accommodation & food during the trekking days
• Flight ticket to Tumlingtar and back to Kathmandu
• All land transportation
• Experienced licensed holder guide and porter
• Makalu Barun National Park Permits
• TIMS Permit
• First Aid Box

Additional costs besides the tour operators’ offered package cost:

• Nepal entry visa fee cost US$ 40
• Preferred lunch and dinner during the staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara city
• Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls, and hot shower during the trekking
• Personal trekking equipment and Clothing
• Personal nature expenses, any drinks and bar bills
• Travel insurance
• Any donation and monuments entrance fees

Chapter 5: Makalu trek Visa and Permit

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You need to have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from the return date in order to get a visa. A Nepal visa is issued prior to arrival from the Nepalese Embassy in your home country or upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Along with this, trekking in Makalu requires a special permit as it shares some borders with China (Tibet).  Villages of Kimathangka, Chepuwa, Hatiya, and Pawakhola in this region are considered restricted areas. The trip to such an area requires a special permit.

If you are planning to explore part of the Kimathangka area, then you need a Makalu region special trekking permit. However, the only base camp in and out route doesn’t require a special permit. Now, read ahead for how and where to get the Makalu Base Camp Trek Permit.

The special permit includes:

• Makalu National Park and Conservation Area permit which costs USD 30
• Makalu Rural Municipality permit which costs USD 20
• TIMS card (Note: The TIMS card was successfully replaced by the Makalu Rural Municipality Permit)

Where can you get this permit

Nepal Tourism Board will provide you Makalu National Park trek permit. You will have to go to Pokhara or Kathmandu to get the Card. Most of the trekking company’s package comes along with these permits, so you don’t have to worry. If you wish to go trekking independently, then the group should have at least two members to get the permit.

Here are the requirements for the restricted area permit:

• Hire at least one authorized professional guide or licensed porter from the local trekking agency in Nepal.
• You need to have at least two people in a group for trekking Makalu Nepal excluding the guide or porter.
• You should file your special permit through an authorized local trekking agency.

Necessary documents to issue the permit

• Valid passport with Nepal entry visa with the arrival stamp
• Two passport-size photos
• Travel Insurance that covers emergency evacuation up to 6000m
• Some cash to cover the fee

Chapter 6: Makalu Trek Packing List

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A packing list for trekking in Makalu is a significant thing to consider in order to explore and enjoy your trip more wisely. Right packing for the light pack comforts at a higher altitude that makes you relax. Remember that excess baggage can be a burden to you and the support staff in the field. So, check the details of your trekking packing list below:

Clothing:

• Sleeping Bag
• Fiber or down jackets
• Waterproof jacket with hood
• Woolen shirts and thick sweaters
• Head Scarf
• Tracksuit & trousers
• Track shoes
• Woolen hat & Sun Hat
• Thermal Underwear and Thermal coat
• Pair of Gloves
• Long sleeved shirt
• Towel and Hankies
• Lightweight walking boots
• Two pairs of thin socks and woolen socks
• Pair of sandals

Equipment and Gears for trekking Makalu:

• Snow glasses and sunglasses
• Trekking Sticks
• Crampons
• Kitbag to carry gear while trekking
• Daypack bag to carry your personal requirements
• Water Bottle, water purifying tablets
• Toilet articles and towels
• Headlamp, Torch
• Sun-cream
• Binocular, Camera, compass, pillow, knife, passport photograph, reading materials, pencil, rubber, pen and notebook, lip guard

Personal Medical Kits in Makalu trek Nepal:

• First-aid kit
• Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters
• Skin-blister repair kit
• Anti-diarrhea pills
• Anti-headache pills
• A cold medicine
• Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
• Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin
• Water purification tablets or the water filter
• A set of earplugs
• Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies

Chapter 7: Makalu Trek Accommodation and Food

Image Credit: https://www.himalayadarshantreks.com/makalu-base-camp-tea-house-trek/

Available lodges and tea houses you find in the trekking region provide essential services. The number of shops between the two destinations is also low, so be prepared beforehand.

Food and accommodation are ordinary in comparison to Everest and Annapurna trek. You won’t find luxurious rooms, dining areas, or various cuisines of your choice in these trails.

There will be a food menu with food items and you choose to order for your breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You may ask your trekking guide about the food ingredients or how will it look. Trekking guides during your Makalu base camp region trek can also help you choose food from the menu if requested.

Noodles, rice, vegetables, meat, soups, tea, and coffee are common food on the menu.

Accommodation:

 Accommodation facility in the Makalu trek teahouse or lodges and home stays during the Makalu basecamp region is very basic. Two beds in one room and one table will be all you will have in common rooms while trekking towards the Makalu basecamp.

The rooms are simple twin-sharing that comes with beds, pillows, and blankets. You need to share the room with your fellow companion as individual ones are unavailable.

Huge numbers of people hike in this region as part of an organized, camping-only trek. Beyond the last villages there are very few basic teahouses with dorm-style rooms, but these close during the colder months.

In all cases accommodation is aimed more at porters and herders than trekkers. Don’t rely on finding a bed for the night; for now, at least, it’s sensible to come on an organized camping trek.

Accommodation in high-season:

The low number of accommodations will be a problem when trekking Makalu during autumn and spring. Routes are overpacked so you won’t find rooms on the spot.

During high season, if you travel in large groups without advance booking, you might have to sleep on the kitchen floors or lobby.

Food:

In trekking Makalu Nepal, your lunch or dinner will always be the Nepali local set that comes with rice, lentils, curry, pickles, and other side dishes. These are good source of protein to boost your stamina.

For the breakfast, you’ll have items like soup, noodles, spaghetti, Tibetan bread, toast with jam, parathas, boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, and more.

Restroom:

There are no attached toilets as they are built outside the lodges.  Common restrooms are normal. So, you need to wait in the queue for your turn.

Chapter 8: Makalu Trek Ground Transportation

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Trekking companies in Nepal offer customizable itinerary which mostly includes ground transportation. You can have a choice of a private comfortable car, van, HiAce, tourist bus or public bus.

All private ground transportation including Airport transfers to their respective hotels in Kathmandu as well. A luxurious private vehicle is basically depended on your affordability and the itinerary that the tour operator offered.

Rare jeeps run from Tumlingtar to Num. You might have to charter transport. Allow a full 24 hours to travel to the trailhead Makalu circuit trekking from Kathmandu using a combination of plane and road transportation or only via bus/vehicle.

You can go by night bus to Kathmandu to Helle about 19 hours from Helle you hire Local Jeep to Num.

Ground Transportation Detail:

Kathmandu to Num passing through Dharan, Dhankuta, Hile, and Khandbari

During the high season (also a festive time in Nepal) is very difficult to get a bus ticket. Many people leave Kathmandu valley or other nearby city areas for a home to celebrate with their families. However, you can take a Microbus for two and a half days of road journey from Kathmandu.

Trekkers must ride microbus to trek Manaslu at four in the morning for the journey. The BP Highway (east-west highway) is the usual bus route. Sometimes, traffic causes you to halt a little bit longer from reaching your destination on time.

Slicing clouds on the way you pass by Dhankuta and finally to Hile after around 12 hours long drive. You can stay in this small, misty town. The next morning, you get into a four-wheeler that takes you on a five hours long rough ride to Khandbari.  This place is counted as a prosperous business center in eastern Nepal.

From Num to Seduwa

Drive along a rough road for the Makalu trekking route doesn’t seize to drain you until you reach Num, which is 4.5 hours drive from Khandbari. Your vehicle riding ends here where the real trek starts now onwards.

Chapter 9: Makalu Internet and Telephone Network

Image Credit: https://www.gadgetbytenepal.com/best-telecom-service-provider-nepal/

Around the high-altitude site, you won’t find mobile communication services in almost all places during the Makalu trekking in Nepal. However, in the lower part of your journey, you can use your own cell phone as well because in most places you will find a network for the local NTC sim card.

Wherever you start from, your first destination in Nepal will be Kathmandu. Here you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. So, you have to spend your first night in Kathmandu before heading to Makalu base camp.

You can buy Nepali SIM Cards in Kathmandu. To get your SIM Cards, you require:

• Two passport-sized photographs
• A copy of your passport
• Pay $1-$2 to get your SIM
• Fill respective network form

These SIM Cards work properly in the places where the network is strong even around the lower side of the Makalu circuit trek. But, as you trek to the higher altitudes, your phone network is weaker.

So, you may not be able to use Nepali SIM cards everywhere while trekking.

Chapter 10: Makalu Base Camp Trek Guides and Porters

Image Credit:https://pariwarholiday.com/trip/makalu/

The experienced licensed guides will be helping you navigate the treacherous trails. Their friendliness and professional service are mostly needed. The sheer difficulty of the terrain and the trail demands you to be in good hands. Along with it, your safety is the primary concern during this Makalu trek to Nepal to make your journey successful.

Before choosing the guides or porters you should look for:

Local guides and porters:

Many trekking agencies arrange all required staff with experienced guides and porters. You need to look for local tour operators with local guides and staff. As natives of Nepal, local guides and porters are familiar with the local people and the trails of the Makalu circuit Nepal trek.

Skill sets and knowledge:

Those who have prior trekking experience can hike to Makalu Base camp without many hurdles. Even if you are a novice trekker, you should not get discouraged.

Experienced guides who have frequently trekked in the region have plans for unexpected weather conditions. Closely abide by the instructions that let you cross the Kongma La, Tutu La, and Keke La passes.

If bad weather forces you to strand in-between, trekking Makalu will be difficult to either return to the previous camp or reach to the next one. Pay attention to the expert advice from your guide, and lodge owners about the trail conditions before attempting to cross the high passes.

Do not panic if you ever meet with a difficult situation during the trek. Listen carefully to the instructions of our experienced crewmembers and professional guides. If you are trekking independently, seek advice from the local tea houses in the Makalu trek region before embarking for the day.

Field-based knowledge:

Climbing Sherpas are needed to place fixed ropes on the passe to help the porters cross with their loads.

For porters, it can be hard work to cross Shipton La pass as it holds deep winter snow into Springtime.

Hiring trekking guides and porters:

• Mountain Trekking Guide Cost: USD 30 per day
• Trekking Guide come to Porter Charge: USD 25 per day
• Trekking Porter Price: USD 23 per day
• Peak Climbing – Mountain Guide: USD 325 (Each Peak climbing bonus)

Chapter 11: Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulty and Safety

Image Credit: https://www.odysseytreksnepal.com/makalu-base-camp-trek/

This trek leads you through the altitude changes from 430 meters to over 4,870 meters at Base camp. You will cross the altitude within a span of a few days. The trail passes through either steep uphill or downhill gaining up to 1,500 meters of elevation in a day. This is well above recommended 1000 meters of elevation gain on a single day of the trek. Here are some causes of difficulties:

Altitude sickness

Quick altitude gain significantly raises the risk of altitude sickness during the Makalu trek. And, as you reach higher altitudes quickly, your body will not be able to adapt quickly and you will get sick. As you reach altitudes higher than 4000 meters, you will have a higher chance of getting altitude sickness.

Additionally, you have to walk as many as eight hours a day. Trekking for six to seven hours in a day is normal in the Makalu region. Long trekking hours attributes to the absence of trekking and hospitality services on the trail.

Less services

Another factor that contributes to the Makalu base camp trek difficulty is based on the provided services as well. The services available along the route are quite basic with a few lodges and tea houses unlike on popular trekking trails.

 You need to walk for up to eight hours a day. No tea house or settlement is available to have accommodation or food in between the two camps following Tashi Gaun. So, you should carry enough food and sufficient water for the trail.

Limited teahouse

Most of the camps including Makalu Base Camp have three tea houses at most. You will see only one tea house at Mamluk. A teahouse can accommodate only up-to eight persons in a day.

If you are in a larger group, the group either has to split between the tea houses or camp. It is the most comfortable choice to stay while you hit this Makalu circuit trail. Therefore, you should book your rooms in advance. Your tour agencies handle this issue without bothering you.

As you stay at the tea houses, you will get basic rooms with shared squat toilets and bathrooms. Tea houses will manage you a bucket of hot water for bathing.

Challenging weather condition

Unexpected weather conditions in the Makalu Nepal circuit region can make the trek extra difficult. Closely abide by the instructions of our experienced guides who have trekked in the region

If you didn’t pay attention during snowbound Kauma La, Tutu La, and Keke La passes, might be challenging to either return to the previous camp or reach to the next one.

Since lodges are not well equipped, trekking during the extreme weather can be a bit difficult. You will need to prepare accordingly to cope with the set of challenges the weather brings. With some precautions and preparations, you will be perfectly fine to trek to the base of Mt. Makalu in any weather.

Strenuous section of the trail

It is very challenging to traverse an alternative route to the Everest region from the Makalu trekking route. It requires mountaineering experiences. The route for this trek goes through two high passes above 6,000 meters – Sherpani Col and West Col.

You will make the base of Island Peak and join the Everest Base Camp trail from here. On the Great Himalayan Trail, the trekkers usually cross these high passes.

Faint markings for the trail

Not all the trails are properly marked here. The trail is marked in early sections mostly in the lower altitude. As you ascend higher, the terrain gets more difficult and the markings get fainter.

You’ll face extra challenges if you are trekking the Makalu circuit independently. There are very few people you may meet on the trail who can help navigate the route. However, you are in luck if you are looking for a trek with fewer people.

No human contact for direction

Heading to the less frequented trails and not seeing another human for the whole trek could be daunting. This can be difficult if you need help finding your way or asking about the trail conditions. Therefore, it is highly recommended to trek with an experienced guide and arranged permit for Makalu from a local agency before embarking on a trail.

Despite being the fifth highest mountain of Nepal and being a moderate difficulty trek, you will be facing some difficulties during your trek. This does not mean you will have no other options but face them head-on. With some preventive measures and preparations, you will be able to minimize these difficulties during your trek.

Remoteness

Unlike the Everest and Annapurna Base Camp Trekking routes, the Makalu Base Camp Trek routes are more remote and uncharted. It does have all the required facilities for your food and accommodations but it is not as populated as the Everest base Camp routes. You may find that the trek routes are not as developed as well due to their remoteness.

Precautions & safety

Physical fitness

Trekking in this region requires an average of 5-6 hours of trekking daily. It is best to keep your body fit and ready for adventures and daily trekking distances. Trying some cardio exercises and short hikes help make your body more comfortable with Makalu circuit trekking.

The journey to this region is a difficult trek but not an impossible one. With some precautions and well preparations, you can easily make yourself capable enough to successfully conquer the trail.

Pre-Exercises

Be prepared for the long and arduous trek beforehand at your home. Take a jog, hit the gym, lap the swimming pool, or complete preparatory local hikes, whichever suits you the most before starting this trek to Makalu.

Dealing altitude sickness

Ascend slowly and take plenty of rest and precautions to prevent and adapt to altitude sickness. Climbing 1000 meters in a day can quickly deprive you of oxygen. Take rest and acclimatize properly as advised by our experienced crew to adapt to the thin air of the mountains.

To avoid altitude sickness during your Makalu base camp trek, your itinerary should be carefully planned so you do not cover more altitude all at once. With proper time for acclimatization, you will be safe from altitude sickness.

Hydrate yourself or take precautionary medicines if needed. medicine like Diamox or paracetamol if you experience some signs of altitude sickness. Mountain sickness is common and can affect anyone regardless of fitness and experience level.

Ignoring early signs will worsen your health. Hence, immediately seek help from medical professionals or your trek friends and guide. To be safe, buy travel insurance that covers high-altitude adventures for any worst cases. If you need to be rescued out of the mountain, the insurance will be a life-saving measure.

Proper food

Avoid eating uncooked, raw, or spoilt food during this trek. Boiled water is the best water to drink. Do not let yourself dehydrated. Stay away from meat, alcohol, and smoking as much as possible while you are trekking the Makalu region. None of these are suitable for altitude sickness and can cause trouble if you fall sick in the remote mountains.

Chapter 12: Best Makalu Trekking Reports

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The reporter starts this report by comparing the past situation and the currently available facilities in the Makalu trekking route. Previously camping treks were popular as the result of a lack of food and sleeping accommodation. However, there are teahouses or lodges to take care of providing such necessary facilities during the trek.

Availability of facilities depends on the location’s access to collect it. So, he suggests trekkers carry their own water container and water sterilizer, mattress, and sleeping bag. As MBC is located at an altitude of 5000 meters, he recommends -15C, a good sleeping bag. At this time there are no facilities, shops, hotels, etc. Trekkers are on their own each day from the lodge to lodge for sleep during the Makalu trek.

As an independent trekker, the reporter and his friend, Paul, from Australia, undertook this trek. It took place between 23 Oct 2010 and 06 Nov 2010 where they used only the tea houses and lodges along the route.

They left Khandbari on 23 Oct and took a jeep from Manibhanjang to Deurali, walked to Num, and had snacks. Continuing their trek Makalu to a small teashop a little way up the hill and crossed the river to reach Seduwa. The next day, they took a long bath, washed their clothes in the beautiful spring in Seduwa, and stayed there the rest of the day.

 The hotel, the New Makalu Restaurant, and Lodge, where they stayed was excellent with an extremely helpful owner. This was some distance away from the usual camping area. Both the food and sleeping accommodation was quite good. They actually ate their food at a neighbor’s home as the kitchen at the hotel was being updated. He praised the situation as it turned out to be a lucky situation to enjoy the company of a Nepali home.

 Further, he describes the location-based facilities that were available around Makalu trekking Nepal:

Seduwa:

• Food—excellent Dal Bhat 100RS; noodles 30RS; tongba 60RS; egg—20RS; tea—15RS; beer—260RS; chapattis—15RS.
• Water—boiled, freely given.
• Toilet—none at this time, the hotel owner would be adding one.
• Camping—in the schoolyard.
• Solar heating would be coming as the hotel was remodeled on this Makalu trek route.
• Sleeping—clean rooms and linen, mattresses; capacity about 15-16 in small and common rooms.

Next day Tashigaon:

Stayed at the Mount Summit Hotel, the last building at the upper end of the village. Very nice. There was another large hotel just down from this one. There were groups staying there and camping during this Makalu base camp trek. There were camping areas at both hotels and a helicopter rescue pad in the area.

• Room: large clean common room with solar light. Good beds and thick mattresses; sleeping blanket provided. 20-22 beds. The sleeping cost was 50-100RS.
• Food: Dal Bhat – 150RS with meat, and 100RS without meat. Quality that day was just ok.
• Excellent new toilet and shower area, cement. Hot water could be arranged for the shower.
• The other hotel in the trekking area Makalu was slightly more expensive. It also had a small store selling snacks, and supplies. There was a large grassy area outside for sunning and good toilet facilities.

Kongma:

Kongma had only one hotel and a camping area. It had upstairs sleeping rooms, two common rooms, about 15 capacity, and cost 200RS/person.

• Bed with a thin mattress, need your own mattress.
• Excellent Dal Bhat- 250RS; a plate of potatoes- 150RS; local wine- 70RS; cup of hot water- 50RS.
• Water was difficult to obtain here, far away, and had to be carried.
• The primitive toilet, bring the water a trekker needed.

Dobaato:

Hotel Do Baato’ was a single small lodge only with a limited capacity of about 8 people. It provided very basic; however, the owner was friendly.

• Good food: Dal Bhat- 250RS, noodles- 50RS, pancake/chapattis- 50RS, potatoes with yak cheese- 150RS; black tea- 40RS; local wine- 50-70RS.
• Hot water/liter- 50RS. Lots of cold water was available nearby.
• Sleeping was very basic, large benches and tables were crowded, and ‘beds’ were short- 200RS.
• No toilet, lots of jungle for it; the owner said that toilet might be the following year.

Yangle Kharka:

Two lodges were there though only one was open. A small home/lodge was available too for very basic living during this trek to Makalu Nepal. They stayed at Chopal Sherpa’s lodge. Upstairs was a large common room but it was very smoky from the cooking fire. Solar-backed lighting was there and a camping area was also available.

• Sleeping: Good beds, no linen, mattresses, very smoky. Capacity about 10- 200RS.
• Good Dal Bhat: hot water free with food. Noodles and snacks were available at the small stores for snacks and supplies. Tongba was available. Dal Bhat – 250RS
• Cold water was easily available, free of cost.
• Toilet, very primitive.

Yak Kharka:

• Just one lodge, owned by Pasang and Pasang.
• Very friendly owners, small supply/snack store. Camping area.
• Sleeping: About 6-8 beds, more could be arranged. Thick mattresses. Some beds were difficult for taller trekkers. No linen. – 200RS.
• Good Dal Bhat was available though we ate with the family and not at the hotel – 250RS. Tongba was available – 150RS; chapattis 40-50RS; black tea 30RS.
• Toilets were primitive, most people walked off to hidden areas.
• Water was difficult to get but could have been from the stream.

Makalu Base Camp:

• Two to three small lodges were crowded but were clean. It was a very cold location.  Lodge only made a fire for cooking, not for heating the lodge or warming trekkers because the wood was scarce and difficult to obtain. Camping areas and separate ‘tent/huts’ were available for porters in this trekking Makalu region.
• Food: Good Dal Bhat. Other food and snacks were also available. Dal Bhat – 250RS; noodles – 50RS; hot water one cup – 50RS; tea – 40-50RS.
• Sleeping: Good mattresses and beds; limited capacity in each lodge.
• Water was available nearby in the stream.
• Toilets: Each hotel had a basic toilet.

Hence, as he concludes, one needs to consider the isolation of the Makalu trekking area.  The price charged along the way was fair. Trek destinations, demanding terrain, and food and equipment to serve the trekkers in the lodges up to MBC were all accounted for. He states anyone who is willing and capable to undertake this physically demanding trek can certainly tolerate some of the basic conditions along the route.

This was more of an adventure trek and less like the over-commercialized treks to Everest and Annapurna. Recent conditions were certainly suitable for independent trekkers as well as small groups. Planning, foresight, and flexibility were required.

FAQs

Conclusion

Trekking in the Makalu region brings a lifetime experience of adventure and natural beauty. This article has covered detailed specifications that you require to go on this trek. From beginning to end of the journey, this gives a glimpse of what you need to accomplish. All essential equipment & gear, accommodation, food, transportation, and all features of the Makalu trek are illustrated.