Makalu Base Camp Trek (19 Days)
The Makalu Base Camp Trek (19 Days) takes you into one of the most untouched and biodiverse wilderness regions in the Himalayas: Makalu-Barun National Park. Dominated by the soaring black granite pyramid of Mt. Makalu (8,485m)—the world’s fifth-highest peak—this expedition combines rugged alpine passes, vertical granite gorges, and pristine high-altitude glaciers.
Starting with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and a rugged 4WD drive to Num, the route ascends through Rai and Sherpa villages to cross the legendary Shipton La Pass (4,216m) and Keke La (4,170m). Descending into the sheer, untouched Barun Valley gorge, you trek past towering waterfalls and hanging glaciers to reach Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), with views of Mt. Everest’s rare Kangshung Face, Lhotse, Chamlang, and Baruntse.
Makalu Base Camp (4,870m)
Stand directly beneath the sheer South Face and massive glaciers of the world's 5th highest mountain (8,485m).
Shipton La & Keke La Passes (4,216m)
Cross the high mountain divide named after famed mountaineer Eric Shipton with views of Chamlang and Kanchenjunga.
Pristine Barun River Gorge
Trek through vertical granite cliffs, hanging glaciers, alpine meadows, and waterfalls in Yangle Kharka.
Tashi Gaon Sherpa Culture
Experience traditional Sherpa and Rai hospitality in isolated hill settlements with stone monasteries.
Rare Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to the elusive Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, and over 400 species of birds.
Everest Kangshung Face Views
Ascend the high ridge above Makalu Base Camp (5,200m) to view Everest's rare eastern Kangshung wall and Lhotse.
Why Trek Makalu Base Camp with Best Treks Nepal?
Trekking into the Barun Valley demands specialized alpine navigation, dedicated acclimatization in Khongma Danda, certified local Sherpa guides, and all-inclusive flight and 4WD logistics.
Base Camp & Ridge Exploration
A full acclimatized day at Makalu Base Camp (4,870m) with guided hike to 5,200m ridge for views of Everest Kangshung Face.
All Flights & 4WD Jeeps Included
Domestic flights KTM ⇄ Tumlingtar and private 4WD Scorpio jeeps between Tumlingtar, Num, and Seduwa.
Shipton La Pass Leadership
Expert high-pass navigation across Shipton La (4,216m) and Keke La with crampons/microspikes provided if needed.
Dedicated Acclimatization at Khongma
Rest day at Khongma Danda (3,500m) before crossing the high pass to ensure high acclimatization success.
Native Makalu Sherpa Guides
Certified Wilderness First Responder guides from the Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu regions.
15% Deposit & Lifetime Validity
Lock in your expedition with 15% deposit ($328). Free date rescheduling up to 30 days prior with lifetime validity.
19-Day Makalu Base Camp Detailed Itinerary
Complete route from Tumlingtar through Num, Tashi Gaon, Shipton La Pass (4,216m), the Barun Valley, and Makalu Base Camp (4,870m).
Day 1
Flight Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (518m) & 4WD Drive to Num (1,560m)
1,560m
40m Flight + 4.5 hrs Drive
+
Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar in the Arun Valley. Meet your private 4WD driver and drive along ridge roads through Khandbari and Chichila to reach the village of Num (1,560m) overlooking the Arun River.
Day 2
Trek Num to Seduwa (1,500m) via Arun River Valley
1,500m
5 hrs / 10 km
+
Descend steeply through terraced fields and bamboo thickets to the suspension bridge over the roaring Arun River (770m). Climb up through forest and cardamom fields to the ridge village of Seduwa (1,500m) and enter Makalu-Barun National Park.
Day 3
Trek Seduwa to Tashi Gaon (2,100m) through Sherpa Farmlands
2,100m
5 hrs / 9 km
+
Walk along quiet stone staircases through the villages of Mulgaon and terraced crop fields. Climb steadily to Tashi Gaon (2,100m), the last permanent Sherpa settlement before the high wilderness.
Day 4
Trek Tashi Gaon to Khongma Danda (3,500m)
3,500m
6 hrs / 8 km
+
Steep climb through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and fir. Cross stone steps and moss-draped ridges through Chipla to reach the open crest of Khongma Danda (3,500m).
Day 5
Acclimatization & Rest Day at Khongma Danda (3,500m)
3,500m
Acclimatization Day
+
Essential acclimatization day before crossing the high pass. Take a side hike along the ridge towards Kauma viewpoint (3,800m) for panorama views of Chamlang, Peak 6, and Kanchenjunga.
Day 6
🏔️ Cross Shipton La (4,216m) & Keke La (4,170m) to Dobate (3,540m)
Shipton La 4,216m
7 hrs / 10 km
+
Magnificent pass crossing day. Climb over Ghungru La (4,050m), past the sacred lake of Kalo Pokhari, and over Shipton La (4,216m) and Keke La (4,170m). Descend through rhododendron forests to Dobate / Mumbuk (3,540m).
Day 7
Trek Dobate to Yangle Kharka (3,557m) along Barun River Gorge
3,557m
6 hrs / 11 km
+
Descend into the sheer Barun River canyon. Follow the raging river through birch and pine woodlands past vertical granite walls and roaring waterfalls to the open meadow of Yangle Kharka (3,557m).
Day 8
Trek Yangle Kharka to Langmale Kharka / Merek (4,410m)
4,410m
5.5 hrs / 10 km
+
Ascend the widening glacial valley passing Nghe Kharka and Ripok. View the sheer rock walls of Peak 4 and Peak 6, climbing through alpine juniper scrub to Langmale Kharka (4,410m).
Day 9
🏔️ Trek Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m)
Makalu BC 4,870m
5 hrs / 8 km
+
Climb along the lateral moraine of the Barun Glacier past Shershon. Emerge into the amphitheater of Makalu Base Camp (4,870m) directly beneath the sheer South Face of Mt. Makalu (8,485m) and Baruntse.
Day 10
Exploration of Makalu Base Camp & High Ridge Viewpoint (5,200m)
5,200m Viewpoint
Exploration Day
+
Day to explore the Barun Glacier and climb the ridge north of Base Camp (5,200m). Gaze at the rare eastern Kangshung Face of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, and Chamlang.
Day 11
Trek Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka (3,557m)
3,557m
6.5 hrs / 16 km
+
Descend past Shershon, Langmale Kharka, and Merek down the Barun valley to Yangle Kharka (3,557m).
Day 12
Trek Yangle Kharka to Dobate (3,540m)
3,540m
5.5 hrs / 11 km
+
Follow the Barun River down the canyon and climb through rhododendron woodlands to Dobate (3,540m).
Day 13
Cross Keke La & Shipton La to Khongma Danda (3,500m)
Shipton La 4,216m
6.5 hrs / 10 km
+
Cross back over Keke La (4,170m) and Shipton La (4,216m) past Kalo Pokhari lake. Descend along the ridge to Khongma Danda (3,500m).
Day 14
Trek Khongma Danda to Tashi Gaon (2,100m)
2,100m
5 hrs / 8 km
+
Descend through the lush rhododendron forests and stone staircases back to the friendly Sherpa village of Tashi Gaon (2,100m).
Day 15
Trek Tashi Gaon to Seduwa (1,500m)
1,500m
4.5 hrs / 9 km
+
Trek through cultivated farmlands and Rai settlements down to Seduwa (1,500m).
Day 16
Trek Seduwa to Num (1,560m) & 4WD Drive to Tumlingtar (518m)
518m
4 hrs Trek + 4 hrs Drive
+
Descend to the Arun River bridge and climb up to Num. Meet your 4WD jeep crew and drive to Tumlingtar (518m).
Day 17
Buffer / Contingency Day in Tumlingtar
518m
Buffer Day
+
Buffer day for weather flexibility on mountain flights or trail delays. Relax in Tumlingtar or explore local tea gardens and markets.
Day 18
Flight Tumlingtar to Kathmandu (1,400m)
1,400m
Flight to KTM
+
Take a morning flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel for relaxation.
Day 19
Farewell Celebration in Kathmandu & Departure
1,400m
Celebration
+
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with our team and presentation of your Makalu Base Camp expedition certificate.
Makalu Base Camp Package Tiers
All tiers include domestic flights (KTM ⇄ Tumlingtar), private 4WD jeeps, Makalu-Barun National Park & TIMS permits, licensed guide, porters, accommodation, and full board meals.
- ✓ Domestic Flights (KTM ⇄ Tumlingtar)
- ✓ Private 4WD Scorpio jeeps (Tumlingtar ⇄ Num/Seduwa)
- ✓ Makalu-Barun National Park & TIMS permits
- ✓ 16 nights lodge accommodation on trek
- ✓ All 3 meals daily on trek (Full Board)
- ✓ Licensed WFR High Altitude Guide & Porters
- ✓ Free 100L duffel bag & -20°C down sleeping bag
- ✓ Everything in Standard, plus:
- ✓ 4-Star luxury hotel in Kathmandu (Aloft/Marriott)
- ✓ Best private rooms in Tashi Gaon, Seduwa & Num
- ✓ Free hot showers & device charging on trail
- ✓ Fresh seasonal fruits & hot trail snacks
- ✓ Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage tour
- ✓ Everything in Comfort Plus, plus:
- ✓ 5-Star luxury resort in Kathmandu (Dwarika's)
- ✓ Dedicated 1:1 Senior Makalu Sherpa Guide
- ✓ 1 porter per trekker
- ✓ Direct helicopter flight Makalu Base Camp ➔ Kathmandu
Read Before You Book — Makalu Base Camp Knowledge Base
Essential preparation on Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), Shipton La Pass (4,216m), Barun Valley trails, and high altitude safety.
Makalu Trekker Readiness Tracker
You have reviewed 0 of 12 preparation topics.
1. Standing at Makalu Base Camp (4,870m) +
Makalu Base Camp sits in a massive amphitheater surrounded by the sheer 3,000m south face of Mt. Makalu (8,485m), Baruntse (7,129m), and the churning icefall of the Barun Glacier.
2. Crossing Shipton La (4,216m) & Keke La (4,170m) +
Named after explorer Eric Shipton, the pass connects the Arun watershed with the Barun Valley. It is crossed on Day 6 and Day 13, past the sacred turquoise alpine tarn of Kalo Pokhari.
3. Barun Valley Microclimates & Ecosystems +
The Barun Valley is a unique microclimate featuring vertical granite walls, hanging waterfalls, lush rhododendron and fir forests, and high alpine meadows with rare orchids.
4. View of Mt. Everest Kangshung Face & Lhotse +
From the high ridge above Makalu Base Camp (5,200m), trekkers are treated to the rare eastern Kangshung Face of Mt. Everest and the imposing mass of Lhotse.
5. Makalu-Barun National Park Wildlife +
The park is a global biodiversity hotspot protecting the endangered Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, and over 400 species of alpine birds.
6. Tashi Gaon & Rai Culture +
The lower trail winds through Rai and Sherpa settlements. Tashi Gaon is the last permanent village with ancient prayer wheels, stone mani walls, and traditional terraced agriculture.
7. 19-Day Physical Endurance & Conditioning +
Rated Strenuous (4.5/5). Involves significant daily ascents and descents across stone stairways, pass crossings, and rocky glacial moraines. Prior hiking experience is strongly recommended.
8. Flights to Tumlingtar & 4WD Logistics +
We provide flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar plus private 4WD Scorpio jeeps to Num and Seduwa, ensuring reliable transport and eliminating long public bus rides.
9. Teahouses and Wilderness Shelters +
Accommodation consists of comfortable family-run lodges in lower villages and rustic stone shelters at Khongma Danda, Dobate, Yangle Kharka, Langmale, and Base Camp with warm dining hearths.
10. High-Altitude Medical Protocols & Oxygen +
Your guide carries pulse oximeters, emergency oxygen, Diamox, and Garmin inReach satellite communication. Helipads are available at Seduwa, Yangle Kharka, and Base Camp.
11. Best Weather Seasons (Spring vs Autumn) +
Spring (March–May) brings blooming rhododendron forests and mild days. Autumn (September–November) offers crystal clear visibility and stable mountain weather for Shipton La.
12. Flexible 15% Deposit Guarantee +
Reserve with a 15% deposit ($328). Free date changes up to 30 days prior with lifetime validity protection.
19-Day Topographic Elevation Profile
Visualizing the climb from Tumlingtar (518m), crossing Shipton La Pass (4,216m), and reaching Makalu Base Camp (4,870m).
Makalu Base Camp Weather & Temperature Model
Calculated across key points from Tumlingtar (518m), Tashi Gaon (2,100m), Khongma (3,500m), Shipton La (4,216m), to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m).
Blooming rhododendron and orchid forests in Barun Valley with warming sunny afternoons.
Heavy summer rains in the Arun gorge; trails are wet and passes are shrouded in cloud.
Prime trekking season with crystal clear views of Mt. Makalu, Chamlang, and Everest Kangshung face.
Heavy snow on Shipton La pass and freezing nights at Base Camp; lodges in Barun Valley are closed.
Guaranteed Small-Group Departures (Max 12)
Guaranteed flight bookings, Makalu-Barun permits, and certified high-altitude Sherpa leadership.
| Departure Dates | Season | Status | Price / Pax | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 05 – Apr 23, 2026 | Spring Rhododendron | ✓ Confirmed (4 seats left) | $2,190 USD | Book Seats |
| May 03 – May 21, 2026 | Spring Clear Skies | ⚡ Filling Fast (2 seats left) | $2,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Oct 03 – Oct 21, 2026 | Prime Autumn Peak | ✓ Confirmed (3 seats left) | $2,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Oct 24 – Nov 11, 2026 | Autumn Clear Skies | ✓ Confirmed (4 seats left) | $2,190 USD | Book Seats |
We organize private tailor-made departures for couples, mountaineering clubs, and photography teams.
Wilderness Teahouses, Mountain Lodges & Nutrition
Authentic Sherpa and Rai stone lodges in lower villages and rustic wilderness huts in the Barun Valley.
Village Teahouses
Stay in comfortable family-run lodges in Num, Seduwa, and Tashi Gaon with warm dining hearths and solar lights.
Barun Wilderness Lodges
Rustic alpine lodges at Khongma, Dobate, Yangle Kharka, Langmale, and Base Camp with wood-burning stoves.
High-Calorie Trail Meals
Full board: Dal Bhat, Sherpa noodle thukpa, porridge, potatoes, Tibetan bread, eggs, and freshly brewed ginger tea.
Purified Boiled Water
Hot boiled drinking water provided morning and night to maintain essential hydration in the cold alpine valley.
Wilderness Safety Standards & Rescue Protocols
Daily pulse oximetry monitoring, comprehensive mountain medical kits, and satellite SOS protocols.
Daily Biometric Oximetry
Twice-daily pulse oximetry checks and health logs tracked by your certified Wilderness First Responder guide.
Emergency Oxygen & Kit
Alpine trauma medical kit, Diamox, high-altitude emergency oxygen cylinder, and portable hyperbaric support.
Garmin inReach Satellite
Continuous two-way satellite messaging connecting your expedition team with Kathmandu operations 24/7.
Helicopter Evacuation Link
Immediate B3e helicopter dispatch coordinate capability from Seduwa, Yangle Kharka, and Base Camp.
Essential Packing Gear Checklist
Recommended 4-layer clothing system and expedition gear for 19 days in Makalu-Barun up to 4,870m.
🧥 Upper Body & Thermal Layers
- 2x Merino thermal base layer tops
- 3x Quick-dry trekking shirts
- 1x Mid-weight fleece jacket
- 1x Heavy-weight -20°C down jacket
- 1x Windproof/waterproof GORE-TEX jacket
👖 Lower Body & Pants
- 2x Thermal long underwear bottoms
- 2x Technical softshell trekking pants
- 1x Waterproof hardshell pants
- 5x Merino wool mountaineering socks
- 1x Warm fleece lodge pants
🥾 Footwear & Moraine Gear
- 1x Sturdy ankle-support trekking boots
- 1x Pair of microspikes (for Shipton La pass)
- 1x Set of adjustable trekking poles
- 1x Polarized UV400 glacier sunglasses
- 1x Warm windproof gloves & mittens
🎒 Hardware & Accessories
- 1x 35L Daypack with rain cover
- 1x 100L Duffel bag (provided free)
- 1x -20°C Down sleeping bag (provided free)
- 2x 1L Insulated water bottles
- 1x Headlamp with extra batteries
Book Makalu Base Camp Trek (19 Days)
Reserve your 2026/2027 trek dates with a 15% flexible deposit ($328 per person). Free cancellation and date transfers up to 30 days before departure.
What Travelers Say About Makalu Base Camp
"The Barun Valley is wilder and more dramatic than anything in Annapurna or Everest. Standing at Base Camp with the massive south face of Makalu towering above is an experience I will never forget."
"Shipton La pass was challenging but perfectly paced with our acclimatization rest day in Khongma. The rhododendrons in May were in full bloom across the valley."
"Seeing Mt. Everest's Kangshung Face from the ridge above Makalu Base Camp was a massive bonus. Best Treks Nepal handled the Tumlingtar flights and 4WD jeeps flawlessly."
"Our Sherpa guide was outstanding—he checked our oxygen levels daily and knew every peak and flower in the national park. Highly recommend Best Treks Nepal."
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers regarding Makalu Base Camp, Shipton La Pass, permits, physical fitness, lodges, and flights.
How difficult is the Makalu Base Camp Trek? +
The trek is graded Strenuous (4.5/5). It requires crossing Shipton La Pass (4,216m) twice and trekking up to 4,870m at Base Camp through rugged wilderness terrain. A solid baseline of cardiovascular stamina is essential.
What permits are required for Makalu Base Camp? +
You require the Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. Both permits are 100% arranged and included in your package.
How difficult is crossing Shipton La Pass (4,216m)? +
Shipton La is a non-technical high alpine pass. The trail involves rocky stone steps and moraine walking past Kalo Pokhari lake. Microspikes may be used if early spring snow is present.
What accommodation is available on the Makalu trek? +
You stay in family-run teahouses in Num, Seduwa, and Tashi Gaon. In Khongma Danda, Dobate, Yangle Kharka, Langmale, and Base Camp, accommodation is in rustic stone mountain shelters with warm dining hearths.
Are all domestic flights and 4WD jeeps included? +
Yes! The package includes flights Kathmandu ⇄ Tumlingtar, private 4WD Scorpio jeep transfers between Tumlingtar and Num, and airport transfers in Kathmandu.
How is altitude sickness managed on this trek? +
Our itinerary features a dedicated acclimatization rest day at Khongma Danda (3,500m) before crossing Shipton La. Your guide performs twice-daily pulse oximetry checks and carries emergency oxygen.
Can we see Mt. Everest from the Makalu route? +
Yes! From the high ridge above Makalu Base Camp (5,200m), you have panoramic views of Mt. Everest’s rare Kangshung Face, Lhotse, Chamlang, and Baruntse.
When is the best time to trek Makalu Base Camp? +
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are prime. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and orchids, while Autumn provides the clearest visibility of Makalu's black granite face.
How does the 15% flexible deposit work? +
You pay 15% ($328) online to secure flight seats, national park permits, and your guide team. The remaining 85% is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu. Deposits have lifetime validity.
What gear is provided free by Best Treks Nepal? +
We provide a complimentary 100L waterproof duffel bag, high-grade -20°C expedition down sleeping bag, and branded trek shirt upon your arrival in Kathmandu.
Is emergency helicopter evacuation available in Makalu? +
Yes. Helicopter rescue coordinates can be dispatched directly to Seduwa, Yangle Kharka, and Base Camp in coordination with your emergency travel insurance.
Can solo trekkers book this trek? +
Yes. Unlike restricted areas, Makalu-Barun National Park permits solo trekkers. Solo travelers can book private treks or join one of our guaranteed small-group departures.
Ready to Trek the Barun Valley & Mt. Makalu?
Our Kathmandu operations desk and senior Makalu expedition leaders are available 24/7 on WhatsApp.
