Accommodation during Makalu Base Camp Trek
- In Kathmandu we provide comfortable accommodation in 3-star hotels with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis.(Private room accommodation can be arranged, at an extra cost)
- During the trek, we provide very basic and limited accommodation on a twin-sharing basis. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging are available at an additional cost
Meals and Drinking water on Makalu Base Camp Trek
On the Makalu Base Camp Trek, you will enjoy three wholesome meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—at local teahouses. Dishes include Nepali staples like dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and eggs, providing the energy needed for high-altitude trekking.
Staying hydrated is crucial. Bottled water is available, but we recommend bringing a refillable bottle and using water purification tablets or drops supplied by your guide to ensure safe drinking water throughout the trek.
Required Permits for the Makalu Base Camp Trek
For the Makalu Base Camp Trek, you’ll need a Makalu Barun Conservation Area Permit and Makalu Rural Municipality Permit Don’t worry—we include all permit fees and handle the paperwork so you can fully enjoy your trek.
- Makalu Barun Conservation Area Permit: NPR 3,000 per person
- Makalu Rural Municipality Permit: NPR 2000 per person
Best Time for Makalu Base Camp Trek
The best time for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is from March to April (spring) and October to November (autumn). Autumn offers stable weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and vibrant flora, with snow-capped peaks visible at higher elevations.
It’s best to avoid winter and the rainy season. From December to February, extreme cold and heavy snow can close many teahouses, though trekking in late February to early March is still possible for those prepared for snowy conditions.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Difficulties
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek due to steep inclines, rugged trails, and long walking hours of up to 6 hours a day, requiring good physical fitness.
Daily elevation gains should ideally not exceed 500 meters, which our itinerary carefully follows. Additional challenges include unpredictable weather, the risk of altitude sickness, and the remote nature of the region. With experienced guides, trek leaders, and porters, however, anyone can complete the trek safely and enjoyably.
Altitude Sickness and Prevention on the Makalu Base Camp Trek
At Aarohi Holiday, your safety is our top priority, especially on high-altitude treks like the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Our experienced guides are trained in altitude sickness prevention, first aid, and emergency procedures. They closely monitor trekkers for signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and follow a gradual ascent plan to ensure proper acclimatization.
Symptoms of AMS—such as headache, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue—are taken seriously. Our team responds promptly with rest, hydration, descent, or emergency evacuation if needed. Before the trek, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing, and your guide will stay in regular contact throughout the journey, helping you enjoy a safe and rewarding Makalu Base Camp adventure.
Travel Insurance for Makalu Base Camp Trek
Travel insurance is essential for the 19-day Makalu Base Camp Trek. The Makalu region is remote and far from major trekking routes, with limited access to medical facilities. In case of a medical emergency beyond basic first aid, an air evacuation may be necessary. Therefore, it’s crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation coverage.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Itinerary
The Makalu Base Camp Trek begins in Kathmandu with cultural sightseeing before a scenic flight to Tumlingtar and a drive to Num, the starting point of the trek. From there, the trail winds through charming villages like Seduwa and Tashigaon, entering the stunning Makalu-Barun National Park. You’ll ascend to Khongma Danda, cross high mountain passes, and descend through rhododendron and fir forests before reaching the alpine meadows of Yangri Kharka.
Continuing higher, the route passes Langmale Kharka before arriving at Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), where breathtaking views of Mt. Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse await. After exploring the base camp’s dramatic glaciers and landscapes, the trek retraces its steps back through Yangri Kharka, Dobate, and Danda Kharka. This adventure offers a perfect balance of cultural encounters, pristine wilderness, and magnificent Himalayan scenery for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Cost
The cost of the Makalu Base Camp Trek varies depending on the season, group size, and service preferences. Our 19-day trek is priced at USD 2,900 per person, which includes all essential services from arrival in Kathmandu to the completion of the trek. This package ensures a safe, comfortable, and well-organized journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and breathtaking trekking regions.
This price is based on a minimum of two person. For group bookings, we provide attractive discounts ranging from 5% to 10%, and the group leader can join the trek free of cost. With transparent pricing and no hidden charges, Aarohi Holiday guarantees outstanding value for an authentic adventure to the base of Mt. Makalu.
Important Notes for Makalu Base Camp Trek
- This package includes a round-trip flight between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar, which takes about 50 minutes each way.
- Each porter can carry up to 20kg, but we recommend packing under 10kg as one porter is shared between two trekkers. A duffle bag for your belongings will be provided.
- Meals are included on the trek, but extra charges apply for hot showers and charging devices at teahouses/lodges.
- Meals and entry fees for sightseeing in Kathmandu are not included in the trek package.
- Drones require hard-to-get permits, so it’s best not to bring.
Fitness Preparation for the Trek
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging high-altitude adventure that demands good physical fitness and endurance. With long trekking days and trails reaching over 5,000 meters, preparation is key to enjoying the journey. Regular walking, uphill hikes with a backpack, and cardio exercises such as jogging, cycling, or swimming will help build stamina. Strength training and flexibility exercises are also highly recommended.
With the right preparation and support from our experienced guides, most healthy and determined trekkers can successfully complete this demanding yet rewarding trek.
A Typical Day on the Trail
A typical day on the Makalu Base Camp Trek involves 6 to 8 hours of trekking through remote and rugged terrain. Your day begins with a hearty breakfast before setting out on the trail, which takes you through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, high-altitude valleys, and traditional Rai and Sherpa villages. The paths are less crowded than other trekking regions, offering a true sense of wilderness.
Along the way, you’ll take breaks to rest, enjoy packed or lodge-prepared lunches, and admire the dramatic landscapes surrounding you. As the trek progresses and altitude increases, the pace becomes slower and steadier, allowing for acclimatization. Evenings are spent in cozy teahouses, where you can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the next day’s adventure toward Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 meters.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions. Three options are available for entry
- 15-day single entry: US $30
- 30-day single entry: US $50
- 90-day multiple entries: US $125
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
