Makalu Base Camp Trekking - 20 Days

Makalu Base Camp Trekking - 20 Days
Trip Information
  • Duration20 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude4812m
  • ActivityTrekking, Historical And Cultural Excursion
  • Group Size2+
  • Trip StartKathmandu
  • Trip EndKathmandu
  • Best TimeMarch-June and Sept-November
Highlights
  • Start from the low, warm areas of the Arun River to the scenic, cooler Barun Valley and the Arctic zone.
  • Visiting the world's fifth-highest mountain (Mt. Makalu Base Camp), within remorseless fields of ice and glaciers
  • Adventure around remote hills in the Nepal Far Eastern Himalaya valley within a pure wilderness.
  • Constant views of snowcapped peaks from Makalu and Baruntse and the Kanchenjunga Himalaya
  • Explore remote villages in eastern Nepal, enriched with varied cultures and traditional customs.
  • Experience rare pictures of the East (Khansung Valley) Face of Mt. Everest from Makalu Base Camp.

An Advantage of Booking a Trip with a Holiday Tours Nepal.

  • Private vehicles pick up and drop off passengers at all airports.
  • First-aid kit box.
  • Holiday Tours Nepal’s down jackets, t-shirts, and caps, if necessary.
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (you should have insurance for emergency evacuation, which will be paid for by your travel insurance company).
  • We use an oximeter to check your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate, and we provide oxygen if needed.
  • Sim cards are provided by our company for travelers, so there won’t be any networking issues.
     

Trip Introduction: Makalu Base Camp Trek 2023-2024.

Makalu Base Camp Trekking, one of the most picturesque adventure destinations in the Himalayan Region, is located far northeast of Nepal, between the high peaks of Kanchenjunga towards the east and Mt. Everest in the west.

Amazing scenery of mountains and green hills to witness on walks towards Makalu Base Camp, where the adventure leads you from the low, warm sub-tropical temperatures of Arun Valley to cooler alpine areas with high hills and into scenic Barun Valley.

Barun Valley is a paradise for naturalists as well as trekkers, where 47 species of orchids, 67 species of valuable medicinal and aromatic plants, 25 of Nepal's 30 varieties of rhododendron, 19 species of bamboo, and 400 different species of bird life include rare and elusive wild animals, from musk deer to snow leopards.

Besides its beautiful mountain views, traditional villages enriched with medieval-period villages of mixed customs and people around the Makalu Region are equally fascinating, where walks lead into typical Nepalese hill villages.

Starting Makalu Base Camp Trekking, take a sweeping scenic flight to land in the warm sub-tropical areas of Arun Valley in Tumlingtar. An exciting drive in this impressive town leads you to the mid-hills to begin your walking journey.

As the trek proceeds into high green hills past remote farm villages and then into the absolute wilderness away from human habitations and towns, into cool, densely forested areas, then climbing up to reach over Kongma and Shipton-la passes to reach the scenic Barun valley,

Barun Valley, situated beneath high snowcapped peaks and high rocky cliff walls, is where we walk towards our final destination at Makalu Base Camp. Where a panorama of close mountain views surprises and excites you.

At Makalu Base Camp, the highest spot of the adventure is enclosed by Baruntse, Chamling, and the east and western side flanks of the world's 5th highest Mt. Makalu, which rises above 8,463 m and 27,766 ft high. The French Expedition first climbed it on May 15, 1955.

It is an awesome place with an opportunity for rare views of Mt. Everest and the Eastern Khansung Face, only seen from this scenic spot. After a wonderful time and experience in the perfect mountain wilderness, we are heading back to Tumlingtar for flights to Kathmandu.

Makalu Base Camp Trekking is a mesmerizing adventure with an enjoyable time that fascinates you on daily walks.

Where does the Makalu Base Camp trek Begin and End at?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek begins with a flight towards Tumlingtar from Kathmandu and a four-hour drive towards Num. After Num, we head towards Seduwa and spend the night there. After Seduwa, we head towards Tashi Gaon, which will take around 4 hours to walk. Then we go to the hill of Kongma Danda. This day will be a little longer as we gain about 900 meters of altitude. We head towards Mumbuk from Kongma Danda, which takes about 6 hours.

From Mumbuk, we head towards Nehe Kharkha, which will take around 5 hours, and towards Shersong before our big day, around 4572m. After Shersong, we travel to our primary destination, Makalu Base Camp, and spend the next day exploring and hiking.

After we finish Makalu Base Camp and descend, we approach Tangle Kharka below Shersong. Then back to Mumbuk Kongma Danda, and the same way down till Num. Then we drive to Tumling Tar, spend the night there, and fly back to Kathmandu.

Who is the Makalu Base Camp Trekking For?

Makalu Base Camp Trekking is for trekkers and travelers who like nature's silence and want to avoid the crowd. The Makalu Base Camp Trekis a less crowded commute to the Everest Region and Annapurna Regions, which is best for trekkers who wish to spend quality time in silent nature.

Makalu Base Camp Trekking is perfect for trekkers with prior trekking experience who want to enjoy the walk along a silent trail.

What is the Best Time to go on the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The best time for Makalu Base Camp Trekking is during September, October, and November for the spring season, and March, April, and May if you plan a trek during the autumn season.

During this time, the accommodation facilities are good, the weather is favorable, and there are fewer chances of the weather turning bad. The environment and surroundings are clean and open, and the views are better and clearer.
The best thing is that the hotels and shops are open, and there are other trekkers along the trail, which makes the trek more fun.

Accommodation Options on the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

The accommodation at Makalu Base Camp Trek is suitable for basic trekkers, and travelers will spend time at the clean and serene tea houses and lodges that provide basic services.

The rooms are clean, mostly double-bed, and share a common bathroom, usually outside the room and on the safe floor.

Prior notice is required for attached bathrooms.

How do I Prepare for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek requires good physical condition and preparation before beginning the trek. Cardiovascular exercises like jogging, yoga, or deep breathing practices in the morning can be beneficial.

If trekkers and travelers are busy, avoiding lifts and public transportation and carrying at least 7 kg of weight during the walk is also considered good. Get engaged in stretching activities before beginning the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

What Type of Food is Available at the Makalu Base Camp Trekking Trail?

Various kinds of foods are available, from local foods like Dal Bhat to Tibetan-style mom dumplings (Thukpa Thenduk) to Western-style pizza and burgers.

There is an open menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from which travelers and trekkers can choose.

Breakfast can be porridge, bread, toast, omelets, noodles, boiled eggs, and other stuff, according to the menu and selection of the client. Lunch can be Momo, ChowMein, thukpa, noodles, spring rolls, burgers, pizzas, or other items. Dinner can be Dal Bhat or other heavy stuff that can provide good nutrition during the trek.

Avoid using meat and drinking alcohol, as meat is not fresh and alcohol causes dehydration in the body. Try to drink at least a liter of electrolytes per day.

Altitude Sickness During the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Altitude sickness can happen to anyone at any time; we never know. As trekkers ascend above 2400 m/7874 ft, the chances of altitude sickness increase. After crossing the 3700-meter/ 12139 ft and 4500-meter/ 14763 ft marks, an extra day is required for acclimatization so that the body can adapt to the environment.

The most common symptoms of altitude sickness are:

  • Headache/nausea.
  • Vomiting and loss of appetite.
  • Fever and difficulty sleeping.
  • Difficulty breathing, gasping a lot.
  • Fatigue and rapid heart rate.
  • Lack of oxygen levels in the body.

Toilets and sanitation at the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Two types of toilets are found at the trail of Makalu Base Camp: one is the Asian squat toilet, and the other is the western toilet. Toilet paper is not kept in the bathroom, so it is advised to carry toilet paper and sanitizer.

Regarding sanitation, according to preference, it is always advised to carry sanitizers, moisturizers, wet towels, face wipers, and other necessary items.

Note: Attached bathrooms are available but must be booked prior to the trek, as attached bathrooms are rare and booked in advance.

Is Travel Insurance Required for Makalu Baes Camp Trekking?

Yes, travel insurance is required for Makalu Base Camp Trekking; it is not mandatory but helps ensure that trekkers are covered in unforeseen circumstances.

Travel insurance covers things and services like baggage loss, emergency evacuation, hospital and medical services, natural catastrophes, and other items mentioned in the insurance policy.

Check the policies, rules, and regulations of the travel insurance before purchasing it, and ensure that the insurance covers medical assistance and the evacuation process. Also, check for the expiration date, as sometimes insurance doesn't cover high-altitude regions, so make sure the insurance policy the trekkers and travelers are buying covers it all.

What Type of Local Culture can be seen along the trail of the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Sherpa culture can be seen along the way of the Makalu Base Camp monasteries, gumbas, and Mani walls can be seen along the trek. With respect to the local culture, Buddhism is widely followed throughout the Makalu Valley. The locals can engage in tourism activities, sometimes agriculture, and grazing the animals.

Remember to respect the tradition and culture, and make sure to walk through the left on the trekking trail and try to stay in a bit of a gap with the mules, horses, and yaks along the path as they come in a group carrying the supplies and amenities for the tea houses and lodges.

Outline itinerary Makalu Base Camp Trekking.

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu: 1,350 m and transfer to the hotel.
  • Day 2: Full day in Kathmandu with a half-day sightseeing tour at places of interest.
  • Day 3: Fly to Tumlingtar (475 m) (45 minutes) and drive to Num (1,485 m) (4 hours).
  • Day 4 Trek to Seduwa, 1,540 m,- 5 hrs.
  • Day 5 Trek to Tashi Gaon: 2,135 m,- 4 hours.
  • Day 6 Trek to Kongma Danda 3,556 m,-5 hours.
  • Day 7 Trek to Mumbuk 3,553 m, -6 hours.
  • Day 8 Trek to Nehe Kharka, 3,760 m, -5 hours.
  • Day 9 Trek to Shersong 4, 572 m, -5 hours.
  • Day 10  Trek to Makalu Base Camp, 4,812 m, -4 hours.
  • Day 11: Rest Day at base camp for local exploration and hiking.
  • Day 12 Trek to Yangle Kharka 3, 598 m, -6 hours.
  • Day 13 Trek to Mumbuk, -5 hours.
  • Day 14 Trek to Kongma Danda/Riddle, -5 hours.
  • Day 15 Trek to Nawa Gaon via Tashi Gaon, -5 hrs.
  • Day 16 Trek to Num via Seduwa, -5 hrs.
  • Day 17: Drive to Tumlingtar for an overnight in a local lodge.
  • Day 18: Fly to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
  • Day 19: Kathmandu is a free day for individual activities.
  • Day 20: Final international departure from Nepal.
Itinerary
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On arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport via respective airlines, you will be received by our office staff and guide with a warm welcome, then transferred to your hotel in the city's hub.

After checking into your rooms and getting refreshed, join the other groups for a briefing on Makalu Base Camp Trekking. Our guide offers you useful and important information regarding the trek and your stay in Nepal with us.

The evening includes a welcome dinner in a nice and authentic Nepalese restaurant with the Culture Program of Nepal while having your dinner.

    Morning: depart from the hotel for an exciting tour around Kathmandu at places of great interest, including Kathmandu city and its valley steeped with historical and religious monuments, temples, and monasteries listed as World Heritage Sites.

    After an interesting tour, the afternoon is free to relax and prepare for Makalu Base Camp Trekking and the next early morning flight to Tumlingtar Airport around the Arun Valley.

      As per the flight time towards Nepal's Eastern part to reach Tumlingtar, where our marvelous Makalu Base Camp adventure begins, a scenic flight from Kathmandu takes you to land at warmer areas at Tumlingtar, located on the shelf of the Arun River.

      Tumlingtar is an interesting town with time for a troll and to explore the traditional life of the local hill people of eastern Nepal. From here, transfer to a local vehicle, where the drive leads towards the mid-hills past farm villages and the town of Khandbari, the headquarters of the Sankha Sabha district of Makalu Region.

      Drive continues over high hills on the dirt road heading past Chinchilla farm village and long downhill to reach Num village overnight in a nice local lodge with views of grand landscapes with Jalajala Himal and Makalu peaks.

        The first day starts with an hour-long descent to cross over a bridge above the Arun River, and then uphill to Seduwa village, walking past Runmura, a small farm village, with the gradual climb to Seduwa village for an overnight camp.

          From Seduwa village, a short day of walks today as the morning walk follows the winding path to Tashigaon, a moderate-sized farm village in the Sherpa community, which is the last village on route to Makalu Base Camp, walking into the farm area and then reaching Tashigaon for lunch and overnight camp.

          We have ample time to explore the village of great interest and witness Sherpa Buddhist culture and age-old traditional life.

            After Tashi Gaon, the last human settlement for a week, the morning leads to a gradual walk within a dense forest of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees past several cattle herder's shelters and shades.

            Walking for a few hours on a good moderate trail, an afternoon walk leads to a climb for a few hours to reach the top of Kongma Ridge, where tall trees fade to small rhododendrons and juniper bushes.

            Overnight with views of world-third-high Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Makalu, and adjoining peaks.

              From Kongma, the walk leads to complete wilderness, following a ridge with a few ups and downs to reach the glacial ponds of Thulo Pokhari (large) and Sano Pokhari (small), and then crossing over Tutu-la and Shipton la above 4,453 m high passes, with a downhill heading back into dense forest to our overnight camp in the midst of tree lines at a place called Mumbuk.

                Morning walks heading down towards scenic Barun Valley, a place famous for unique, rare species of vegetation—plants that are almost extinct in this world—where medicinal herbs and mountain animals are found.

                On reaching Barun Valley, the walk leads to a gradual uphill climb with views of peaks on both sides of the valley and then encountering several Yak herder shelters and a small Buddhist gompa (monastery). After a nice walk, we reach our overnight camp at Nehe Kharka with scenic Barun Valley.

                  From the Barun Valley Trek to Shersong, which is at the end of the Barun Valley, towards Makalu Base Camp, the walk leads to a slow uphill, then crossing streams with views of Mt. Makalu and Baruntse Peaks. After a good walk of the day, we reach Sherson for an overnight stop.

                    After Sherson, we are heading to our main highlight and destination at Makalu Base Camp, where a walk leads on the high path over moraine and ice within rocky areas to reach Makalu base camp, located close to a glacial icy pond next to Baruntse Himal.

                    Our overnight camp is set beneath the towering South Face of Mt. Makalu, with time to explore and enjoy views of the surrounding high peaks.

                      Rest day at Makalu Base Camp with views of Mt. Makalu, Baruntse Himal, and Peak IV; options for the hike for views of Mt. Everest with its rare East Face known as Kangshung with Mt. Lhotse.

                        From Makalu base camp, retrace the walk back towards the lower Barun valley to reach Yangle Kharka for an overnight stop enclosed within high rocky cliffs, offering views of waterfalls.

                          After a grand time around Barun Valley, the walk leads towards the end of Barun Valley and then climbs back into a forest at Mumbuk for an overnight camp.

                            Morning heading back on the same scenic trail to Kongma Ridge, starting with a climb for an hour into forest areas to reach a ridge after leaving tree lines, as the walk leads past the glacial ponds and over Tutu la and Shipton la to Kongma hill for overnight camping.

                              Ending our high latitude trek as morning walk leads to long downhill into forest of tall tree lines to reach Tashi Gaon, from here on route to Nawa or Narbu Gaon village, as our route leads into shade of forest and farm terraces to reach a large Sherpa village of Nawa Gaon on for overnight stop, with afternoon free to explore this nice farm village.

                                Our last walk of the great adventure ends today following a trail to Seduwa village. From this village, descend on a steep path to reach a bridge over the Arun River. After crossing the bridge, steep climb for a few hours to reach back at Num village for the last overnight around the high hills of Makalu Himalaya.

                                  Morning, our adventure is complete after taking an exciting drive to a nice little town at Tumlingtar within warmer areas enriched with vast farmland around Arun Valley. The drive leads past farm villages of Chinchilla, Manebhanjyang, and the large town of Khandbari, and then back to Tumlingtar with time to browse around the village to observe the local culture and customs of the eastern Nepalese.

                                    From Tumlingtar morning flight to Kathmandu with the panorama of mountain views all the way to Kathmandu, at Kathmandu domestic airport, our staff transfers you back into your hotel with the free afternoon to relax after a great and wonderful adventure on the Makalu Base Camp Trek.

                                      A free day in Kathmandu reserved an extra day in case of flight delay and cancellation at Tumlingtar due to unfavorable bad weather conditions, which can occur sometimes as Himalayan weather can be unpredictable.

                                      If all goes well as per our guidelines and set itinerary, enjoy the day with individual activities or join in for an exciting tour around Kathmandu at places of great interest.

                                        Last day in Nepal, the country of the Himalayan wonders, and as per your international flight time, depart for homeward bound or to your next respective connecting destinations.

                                        Our staff and guide transfer you to Kathmandu airport after a mesmerizing memory and a great time on Makalu Base Camp Trekking.

                                          Cost Details
                                          What's Included
                                          • All airport pick up drop off by private vehicle (for both international and domestic flights).
                                          • 4-night twin/double sharing accommodation on BB in Kathmandu.
                                          • Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu with private vehicles (entrance fees extra).
                                          • Kathmandu to Tumlingtar to Kathmandu flight with airport departure tax.
                                          • National Park entrance fee and Trekkers’ Information Management System( TIMS card).
                                          • A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking, well-trained, Government license holding guide. Price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
                                          • 02 guests to 01 porters with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment.
                                          • Your cost includes insurance, wages, food, and lodging for both your guide and porter. We take excellent care of our guides and porters, they are like family to us.
                                          • The best available twin-sharing lodge accommodation during the trek.
                                          • Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea/coffee during the trekking.
                                          • Snacks of biscuits/peanuts and seasonal fresh fruits dessert during the trek.
                                          • All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary.
                                          What's not Included
                                          • Your Nepal Visa fees (should bring small accurate fees in USD and 02 passport-size photos).
                                          • All the International airfare from and to Kathmandu (no need to pay a departure tax for international flights).
                                          • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
                                          • Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation (Helicopter rescue insurance is highly recommended. If you have any problem and you have to be evacuated, without your insurance you have to pay the helicopter in cash.)
                                          • In case of extra nights accommodation, lunch and dinner in the city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of the itinerary.
                                          • Your Personal expenses such as ( laundry, phone calls, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottled water {it will cost between $1 and $3 a bottle (it gets more expensive towards base camp).}, extra porter.. etc.).
                                          • Entrance fees for the day tours in Kathmandu.
                                          • The Tips to the Trekking Crews and drive.
                                          • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather conditions or any event out of our control.
                                          • Anything not included in the service includes the column.
                                          Availability
                                          • The trip departs everyday if the year
                                          • The trip and trek is fully customizable we can customize the trip according to the need and necessity of our clients

                                          • The trip is available for solo travelers group travelers and private travelers

                                          • We organize the trip for a large group and can provide service for a group of 100+ members as well

                                          • If the given date are not appropriate for the travllers and trekkers the trip can be conducted on the custom date provided by our clients

                                          • Holiday tours Nepal advises all our clients to book at least 7 days prior so all the arrangements can be done in time specially sometimes in themountains the accommodation are booked prior so prior booking helps a lot

                                          Contact us at [email protected] or send us a text at +977-9816710843 or +977-9818178630 we are available 24/7 on whatsapp viber wechat for additional informations.

                                          Useful Information

                                          Equipment and Gear List

                                          GeneralGeneral

                                          • Four-season (-20 degree) sleeping bag (We provide rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
                                          • Puffy down jacket (We provide rental jackets for an additional USD 35)
                                          • Daypack (25-30 liters recommended) with rain cover

                                          CatUpper Body

                                          • Sun hat or cap (We'll provide you with a trekking cap.)
                                          • warm woolen hat
                                          • Scarf/Neck Buff (highly recommended to get saved from wind and cold)
                                          • Headlamp or mobile torch light for nighttime
                                          • Polarized sunglasses

                                          TorsoTorso

                                          • Technical fabric base layer thermals are light for warmer months, heavy for colder months
                                          • Technical fabric t-shirts and sleeve sweaters or high-necks
                                          • Waterproof rain jacket
                                          • windproof jacket for the walk as it gets windy
                                          • Fleece jacket or down jacket

                                          LowerLower Body

                                          • thermals inner
                                          • Hiking pants at least 3
                                          • Comfortable pants for teahouses
                                          • Waterproof, windproof shell
                                          • Hiking shorts

                                          glovesHands

                                          • Woolen gloves for the tea house
                                          • Hard-shell windproof outer gloves for the walk

                                          feetFeet

                                          • Marino Wool or comfortable, warm socks
                                          • Hiking socks
                                          • Liner socks
                                          • Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
                                          • Crampons (For passes)
                                          • Casual shoes or sandals that are comfortable for the time in the tea house
                                          • Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow)

                                          undergarmentUndergarments and Inner Wears

                                          • Technical fabric/quick drying (can be washed during the trek)
                                          • Sports bras (women)
                                          • sleeping clothes as per the comfortability

                                          FirstaidFirst Aid Kits and Medications

                                          Note: Our guides carry medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are recommended.) 

                                          • Sunscreen SPF- 50+
                                          • Lip balm or Vaseline
                                          • ointment cream
                                          • Cough Syrup and strepsils (recommended for Khumbu Cough)
                                          • Creams and medicines (for any allergies or diseases)

                                          Optional Other Essentials

                                          • Passport
                                          • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
                                          • Reusable water bottle
                                          • Toilet paper, small soap, and shampoo
                                          • Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
                                          • water bladder for the day bag
                                          • small towel for personal use
                                          • Pillowcase in case of allergies to new pillows
                                          • High-protein snacks (such as mountain bars or nuts)
                                          • Waterproof/dry bags for carrying essential documents, stuff, frequently used items, and money
                                          • Power bank or extra batteries
                                          • Cameras and mobile phone
                                          • Cards/book
                                          • Pee bottle/ pee funnel for women
                                          • Trekking poles
                                          • Whistle in case your voice is not loud enough to stop or start
                                          • Thermos for hot water during the night
                                          • We give you a free duffel bag, trekking cap, maps, and t-shirt during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your trekking supplies.
                                          • For every two participants, we assign one porter. The porter will carry the duffel bag, which should weigh around 10 kg/22 lbs., throughout the walk.
                                          • Daypack bag for daily used stuff like cash, documents, papers, a water bottle or bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, clothing, etc. (with a waterproof cover).
                                          • You can store your luggage (on-trekking items) at the hotel in Kathmandu, and we can assist and help.
                                          • Total luggage for the Kathmandu-Lukla flight is (15 kg (33 lbs.), including duffel (10 Kg/22 lbs.) and backpack (5 kg/11 lbs.)
                                          • A down jacket with a hood (cap) to be warm in altitudes above 3,000m.
                                          • We can provide a down jacket for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, you need to pay back the cost of USD 200 per item.
                                          • We can provide a sleeping bag for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, USD 200 per item must be paid.

                                          Note: Supplies and gear can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu. Once you are in Nepal, you can buy supplies and gear for hiking if you have spare time. Trekking Planner Nepal representatives will assist you in purchasing the equipment. Thamel a tourist hub, offers a wide range of trekking equipment at affordable prices. Don't wear short clothes inside the monasteries and religious places.

                                          Makalu Base Camp Trekking - 20 Days FAQs

                                          • The best times to hike to Makalu Base Camp are in the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). The weather continues to be pleasant, and the temperature stays mild (especially at low and mid-elevations). The Makalu circuit trek is possible in the winter, but not recommended as the freezing temperatures may be too much for the region's lodges and teahouses, which aren't very well equipped.

                                          • Yes. Holiday Tours Nepal can customize your itinerary in accordance with your duration, cost, and party size. Feel free to contact Holiday Tours Nepal for your unique itinerary.
                                             

                                          • Locally available foods such as Nepali Dhal Bhat, Noodles, fried rice, and Potatoes are available. You can bring your own snacks because buying them along the hiking trails will be outrageously expensive. To save money on drinking water, we suggest you bring water tablets or a filter. Every teahouse in the Makalu region has safe drinking water that can be replenished (at your own expense).

                                          • A camping excursion or a teahouse stay is both options for the Makalu Base Camp Hike. It can also be determined by the size of your group. A modest teahouse can suffice for a group of 1-5 individuals seeking a low-cost solution. Camping, on the other hand, is the best option for large parties (more than 5 people). Teahouses provide nearly identical services and features. Bed, foam mattress pad, pillow, and blankets. During your journey, the attached bathroom service will be unavailable.

                                          • There are two options for getting to Tumlingtar, the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. One option is to take a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar.

                                            The second option is to travel 500 kilometers to Kathmandu by local bus or private automobile. The overall driving time is 12 hours.

                                          • The Makalu Base Camp climb can take you up to 5,250 meters (about 17,220 feet) above sea level. This elevation is often reached at the Makalu Base Camp, the trek's principal endpoint.

                                          • To visit Nepal's Makalu Barun National Park, take a daily flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, Phaplu, Lamidanda, Bhojpur, or Tumlingtar. The most prominent route is the flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. Once you've landed, the park is easily reached by road from all of the above locations.

                                          • Yes, permits are required for Trekking in Makalu Base Camp. Two types of permits are required for the Makalu Base Camp trek which include:

                                            • Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit (US $30 per person): This permit helps trekkers pass through Makalu Barun National Park which is a protected area. This permit can be made in Kathmandu or at the park’s entrance.
                                            • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card (US $20 per person): The TIMS card is a registration and information system meant to safeguard the safety and security of trekkers in Nepal. It is used to track trekkers and provide aid in the event of an emergency. In Kathmandu, you can purchase a TIMS card through the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or one of its authorized agencies.

                                            Note: If you are trekking under Holiday Tours Nepal, we will assist you in obtaining these permits. Additionally, it is a good idea to check with the Nepal Tourism Board for any change in permit regulations and fees.

                                          • Trekking to Makalu Base Camp comes with challenges and risks. So in order to overcome any risks proper precautions must be taken. Some crucial precautions to take when trekking to Makalu Base Camp are as follows:

                                            • Because of the high heights involved in this trek, proper acclimatization is essential. Ascend carefully to give your body time to acclimate to the lower oxygen levels.
                                            • Regular exercise, cardio activities, and physical activity can help you enhance your endurance and stamina.
                                            • Carry only what you need, but keep the baggage as portable as possible.
                                            • Obtain the appropriate permits and keep them on you at all times. These consist of national park permits and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) cards.
                                            • It is strongly advised to trek with an experienced guide provided by Holiday Planner Nepal who is familiar with the terrain and culture and can aid in an emergency.
                                            • Keep up to date on weather forecasts and be ready for unexpected changes.
                                            • Purchase travel insurance that includes medical evacuation in the event of an emergency.
                                            • Respect local traditions and customs. Before photographing individuals or their property, obtain their permission.
                                          • Mount Makalu is located southeast of Mount Everest, at the border between Nepal and China's Tibet Autonomous Region. It is a Himalayan range in the Mahalangur range. Nepal is located in the Sankhuwasabha district in the Koshi zone.

                                          • The difficulty level of Makalu Base Camp Trek 20 days is strenuous which means it is exhausting and laborious. The reason behind that is the elevation gain, weather uncertainties, and limited availability of services.

                                          • Because of the unique geology and climate of the Makalu Region of Nepal, packing for the trek requires careful consideration. To get you started, Holiday Tours Nepal has put together a packing list:

                                            Clothing:
                                             Thermal shirts and bottoms that wick away moisture. Fleece or down jacket for added warmth during cold evenings. Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants to protect against rain, wind, and occasional snowfall. Trekking Pants, Trekking Shirts, warm hat, sun hat, and a buff or scarf for neck protection. Gloves, Footwear, Socks, and Gaiters: Optional 

                                            Gear and Accessories:
                                            Backpack, Sleeping Bag, Trekking Poles, Headlamp/Flashlight, Sunglasses, Water Bottle, Trekking Towel, Camera and Accessories Power Bank, Reusable Bags.

                                            Personal Items:
                                            Passport and Permits, Money, Travel Insurance, Medications, Toiletries and Sanitary pads, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and any personal hygiene items you may need.

                                            Optional Items:
                                            Tea Bags or Snacks, Guidebook/Maps, Playing Cards/Books, Trekking Permit and TIMS Card: Ensure you have all required documents.

                                          • Since trekkers do not travel directly from Kathmandu to the Makalu Base Camp, the distance between the two cities is often calculated as a trekking distance rather than a straight-line distance. The climb to Makalu Base Camp takes several days of hiking across Nepal's eastern area. The Makalu Base Camp journey begins with a one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. It is a small airport which is located 500 kilometers east of the capital. Starting from Tumlingtar the round-trip walk to Makalu Base Camp and return can cover 160 to 180 kilometers (100 to 112 miles) or more, depending on the route and itinerary modifications.

                                          • The Makalu Base Camp Trek duration usually varies depending upon the itinerary and plans of trekkers. Beginning the journey from Tumlingtar it takes about 10-12 days to reach the base camp. If a day is spent on the base camp for resting, exploring, and acclimatizing, it usually takes 5-7 days to descend to lower elevation. However, an expedition with Holiday Planner Nepal will allow fellow travelers/trekkers to customize their itinerary in accordance with personal preference.

                                          • The Makalu Mountain Range is located in Sankhuwasabha district in the Koshi zone of Nepal. It is a significant Himalayan mountain range in Nepal's eastern area; close to the border with Tibet (China). Makalu is the fifth-highest mountain in Nepal with a height of 8481 meters/27,825 feet.

                                          • The Makalu Base Camp trek is famous for its pristine nature, beautiful panoramic Mountain View, tough and rough terrains, meadows, alpines, and breathtaking view of Makalu itself. The trekkers will have the first-hand possibility to interact with the rich and diverse local culture making this expedition a genuine unforgettable trekking experience in Nepal. On that note, trekkers on a journey to Makalu Base Camp get the opportunity to witness Makalu Barun National Park, a biodiversity hotspot that harbors rare and exotic species like Red Panda and Snow Leopard.

                                          • Due to the slope, isolation, and steep character of the paths, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is slightly more difficult than the Everest Base Camp. As the summit holds an altitude of (8481 meters/27,825ft) and the base camp holds an altitude of (5100m/16732.28), altitude sickness is common. Similarly, the Makalu region is known for its technical challenges during the climb. Another reason for trekkers can be the limited amount of teahouses along the route as compared to the Everest Base Camp trek. Therefore, Makalu Base Camp Trek is suitable for those who have experience in high-altitude trekking and can acclimatize in accordance to height.

                                          • The trek to Makalu Base Camp is slightly more difficult than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit. Makalu is the world’s fifth-highest peak and lies northeast of Everest. Trekking to Makalu base camp is difficult as compared to other 8000m peaks because of the technicality involved during the trek. Due to this reason, the number of climbers who climbed Makalu is relatively low as compared to other Himalayan climbs in Nepal. The difficulty of this trek depends on the structure and time taken to reach the base camp. To have a better understanding of the difficulty during the Makalu Base Camp trek, the path of Makalu has been divided into three sections that are:

                                            • The less difficult glacier climb on the low slopes.
                                            • The infamous slopes and jagged ridges.
                                            • A difficult ice-climbing route leads to the mountain's summit.

                                            As we can see this trekking involves a rugged path and incline which makes trekkers have comparatively more problems than any other trekking. Additionally, the remoteness of the area also somehow influences trekkers to not go to Makalu base camp. 

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