Makalu Base Camp Trek - 18 Days

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Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal of 18 days is one of the challenging as well as beautiful off-the-beaten-path journey in the Eastern part of Nepal. This trek is one the less explored destination with the less flow of tourist en route, making it perfect for the travellers who want to escape huge crowd while trekking in Himalayas and enjoy serene mother nature. Makalu Base Camp is one of the high altitude trek in Nepal with the chance to explore the diverse culture and serene nature of the eastern side of Nepal along with the Himalayan wilderness.

Trekking in the Makalu Region of Nepal offers an unforgettable journey through beautiful, evergreen rhododendron forests and provides panoramic views of several eight-thousanders, including Mount Everest (8848 m), Mount Lhotse (8516 m), Mount Makalu (8463 m), and Mount Kanchenjunga (8568 m) and other Himalayas. Makalu Base Camp Trek offers a rare and rewarding adventure through one of Nepal’s most untouched and serene regions.

Highlights of 18 Days - Makalu Base Camp Trek

  • Trekking in Less Crowded Areas: Enjoy trekking in a less crowded area, staying close to nature and experiencing unspoiled scenery.
  • Spectacular Mountain Views: From the Makalu Base Camp, witness a spectacular panoramic view of some of the world’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest (8,848.86m), Chamlang (7,319m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Baruntse (7,129m).
  • Exploring the Beautiful Arun Valley: Explore the Arun Valley, one of the most beautiful trekking destinations in Nepal.
  • Monasteries & Stupas: Explore ancient monasteries and stupas, steeped in history and tradition, offering a deep insight into the region's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
  • Shipton La Pass: Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and untouched trails, crossing high-altitude passes like Shipton La, which rewards you with spectacular views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys.
  • Makalu Barun National Park: Traverse through the rich biodiversity of Makalu Barun National Park, with opportunities to see rare wildlife such as Red Pandas, snow leopards, and musk deer.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the diverse cultures of Eastern Nepal, meeting Rai, Gurung, Sherpa, and Shingsawa communities. Enjoy the local terraced farming and the warm hospitality of the people.
Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
18 Days
Trip Grade
Hard
Max. Altitude
4870
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Walking / Hiking
Accomodation
Hotels / Lodge
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

18 Days - Makalu Base Camp Trek – Journey to Nepal’s Remote Himalayan Wilderness

Rising to 8,463 meters, Mount Makalu is the world’s fifth highest mountain, known as the “Great Black One” for its imposing and dramatic appearance.

The off - beaten trekking to Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal offers a unique and unforgettable adventure through the untouched eastern Himalayas, where trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of four majestic eight-thousanders: Mount Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,463 m), and Kanchenjunga (8,586 m).

This trek typically involves 14 days of walking, starting and ending at Tumlingtar, following a short scenic flight from Kathmandu. The journey traverse’s diverse terrain—from vibrant rhododendron forests and remote Gurung villages to deep river gorges and alpine meadows.

Beginning with a drive from Tumlingtar to Num, the trail winds through charming settlements like Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma La, Mumbuk, and Yangri Kharka, before reaching the breathtaking Makalu Base Camp at 4870 meters. The base camp offers up-close views of Makalu itself, along with Ama Dablam, Chamlang, and Baruntse. This demanding yet rewarding trek is ideal for seasoned hikers and nature lovers who seek serenity, challenge, and awe-inspiring scenery. Along the way, the trail passes through the Makalu Barun National Park, a haven of biodiversity, home to rare wildlife and a wide variety of alpine flora.

Nepal Makalu Base Camp trek is a long, varied, and strenuous journey ideal for passionate trekkers and nature enthusiasts who prefer tranquil, pristine environments over crowded trails. With its combination of solitude, raw beauty, and cultural immersion, the Makalu Base Camp Trek stands out as one of Nepal’s finest off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Why choose Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition for Makalu Base Camp Trek ?

  • We provide Experienced Local Guides & Porters who will ensure your trek to be safe and unique.
  • We provide you with Makalu Base Camp Trek map 
  • We provide an oximeter to check your oxygen levels at altitude—your safety is our top priority.
  • Our guides carry essential medical supplies to support minor health needs during the trek.
  • Store your extra baggage safely at our Kathmandu office while you enjoy your trek light and worry-free.
  • Get a souvenir and with achievement certificate from us after the completion of your adventure.
  • Receive a high-quality duffle bag of Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition as a trekking gift, perfect for carrying your essentials during the journey.

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 02:Kathmandu - Tumlingtar (410 m) – Num (1560 m)
Max Altitude
1,560m / 5,118ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 03:Num - Seduwa (1500 m)
Max Altitude
1,500m / 4,921ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 04:Seduwa - Tashigaon (2100 m)
Max Altitude
2,100m / 6,889ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 05:Tashigaon – Khongma Danda (3500 m)
Max Altitude
3,500m / 11,482ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 06:Khongma Danda – Dobato (3890 m)
Max Altitude
3,890m / 12,762ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 07:Dobato - Yangri Kharka (3557 m)
Max Altitude
3,557m / 11,669ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 08:Yangri Kharka – Langma Le Kharka (4410 m)
Max Altitude
4,410m / 14,468ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 09:Langma Le Kharka - Makalu Base Camp (4870 m)
Max Altitude
4,870m / 15,977ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 10:Exploration around Makalu Base Camp (4870 m)
Max Altitude
4,870m / 15,977ft
Walking/Hiking
Hiking
Itinerary
Day 11:MBC - Yangri Kharka (3557 m)
Max Altitude
3,557m / 11,669ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 12:Yangri Kharka - Dobato (3070 m)
Max Altitude
3,070m / 10,072ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 13:Dobato – Khongma Danda (3500 m)
Max Altitude
3,500m / 11,482ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 14:Khongma Danda - Seduwa (1500 m)
Max Altitude
1,500m / 4,921ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 15:Seduwa – Num (1560 m) – Tumlingtar (410 m)
Max Altitude
410m / 1,345ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 16:Tumlingtar - Kathmandu (1350 m)
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Flight
Itinerary
Day 17:Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 18:Departure from Kathmandu
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Makalu Base Camp Trek - 18 Days Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary can be customized according to your duration of holiday. Similarly, hotel can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your requirement.

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, you can relax and acclimate to the altitude, spending the rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

At the early morning, you will have breakfast at the hotel and then we drive to TIA, domestic terminal. You will take 45-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. After arrival in the Tumlingtar airport, the adventure begins, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and hills in the eastern part of Nepal. The airport of Tumlingtar is small regional airport located at an altitude of 410 m.

After arrival in Tumlingtar, you will drive on country road to Num in jeep which takes about 3 - 4 hours. As you drive towards Num, you will pass through the picturesque view of countryside of eastern region, cross small villages, terraced farming and so on. Stay overnight at Tea House in Num.

tumlingtar-airport-1

Today you will have breakfast in the morning, and then prepare yourself for the first day of the trek, i.e Num to Seduwa which takes about 5 hours. From Num, walking descending trial for about 2.5 hours walking through the forests and terraced fields towards the Arun River. After crossing the suspension bridge of Arun River and then from there you will have to ascend through the lush forests, pass through the small villages of eastern region, terraced fields and local people for about 2.5 hours and reach Seduwa. As you ascend uphill, you can see the beautiful forest and landscape. Upon arrival in Seduwa you can see small villages with basic tea houses. In Seduwa, there is also a check post and local office of the Makalu Conservation Area. Here you will issue and register Makalu Baun National Park. Stay overnight at tea house in Seduwa.

seduwa

After having breakfast in the morning prepare to trek towards Tashigaun which takes about 4 hours.

Seduwa is the beginning of Makalu Base Camp trek. You will have to walk through some straight ascending trial and straight trials along the bushes to reach Tashigaon. Today you cross meadows, rivers, small paddy fields and reach Sherpa Village named Tashigaon. Tashi gaon means “good fortune”. Tashigaon is a big Sherpa village and it is surrounded by verdant forest. Here you will find prayer flags fluttering in the wind whispering odes of prayers for the dead and forgotten in and around the village. Stay overnight at tea house in Tashi gaon.

tashigaun

After having breakfast in the morning prepare to trek towards Khongma Danda, which takes about 6 hours.

Today you will walk through the ascending trial along the rhododendron and oak forest until we reach Khongma Danda. Today’s trek will be a bit challenging as you will be trekking to the higher elevation. You will first ascend through the forest, crossing a stream and climbing onto a ridge. As you reach Unshisa (3110m), enter in Makalu Barun National Park. From there, it’s a short distance to Khongma Danda (also known as Kauma or Khongma Danda). Although the distance is only about 7 km, the trail is quite challenging and typically takes about 6 hours to cover. Stay overnight at tea house in Khongma Danda.

-hongma-anda-2

After having breakfast in the morning prepare to trek towards Dobato which takes about 6 hours of walking.

Today you will be walking in the ascending trial following a rugged path until and pass through the Tutu La or Shipton’s Pass (4125 m) and from there walking ahead you will see a beautiful lake named “Kalo Pokhari” (3930 m). In case of heavy snow fall, the path from here can be quite hard and it might be difficult to find the trial without help of local or expert guide. As you ascend uphill, you will cross through another pass named Keke La (4170 m). After that, descend downhill through the middle of the pine woods, hemlock, and Rhododendron Forest until we reach Dobato. Stay overnight at tea house in Dobato.

-obato-2

After having breakfast in the morning prepare to trek towards Yangri Kharka which takes about 5-6 hours. Today’s hike is a bit adventurous and strenuous. The trail passes for about 3 hours through a landscape which is very prone to landslides. You will have to walk straight descending trial to wooden narrow valley of Themthang Kharka (3810 m) and still walk downhill until you cross Barun Khola. The Barun River running through the trail adds more dimensions to the trek with its spectacular views of Mt. Tutse Peak (6739 m) and Peak 7 (6185 m). After you cross Barun Khola, follow along the norther bank and reach the settlement of Yangri Kharka in another 3 hours. Stay overnight at tea house in Yangri Kharka.

-hongma-anda-1-3

After having breakfast in the morning prepare to trek towards Langma Le Kharka which takes about 5-6 hours. Starting from Yangri Kharka, the trek continues alongside Barun River, ascending gradually through a scenic valley adorned with thick rhododendron and juniper forests. As you climb higher, the vegetation thins out, revealing a rugged and dry terrain. Today you have the opportunity to spot wildlife like blue sheep, mountain goats, and diverse bird species, adding to the allure of the journey through) this pristine natural landscape.

The trail ascends through Himalayan pasture grasslands and forest. You can enjoy the majestic peaks such as Mt. Tutse Peak (6739 m), Peak 7 (6185 m) and many other unnamed mountains and peaks on the way to Langma Le Kharka. On the way you will pass through the places like: Yak Kharka and Merek (4100 m). Langma Le Kharka has basic tea house with limited accommodation options. Overnight at Tea house in Langma Le Kharka.

lengma-le-kharka-3

Today is an important day of the trek, today you will be trekking to Makalu Base Camp (4870 m) via Shershong (4630 m). After having breakfast at the tea house in the early morning and then trek towards Makalu Base Camp, final destination which takes about 6-7 hours.

At first, you will trek to the ascending trial through the barren alpine landscape along the Baru River Valley. Upon reaching Shershong (4630 m), now walk through the straight flatten trial through a wide, rocky plain. As you approach towards Makalu BC, you can see mesmerizing views of Mount Makalu, Baruntse, Mount Chamlang and so on.

From the Makalu Base Camp, you will be mesmerized by the views of Mt. Makalu (8463m), Baruntse (7152m), Kali Himal (6985m), Chamlang (7390m) and Makalu II (7640 m), etc. Stay overnight at Tea house in Makalu Base Camp.

nepal-makalu-base-camp-trek-in-himalayas-2

Early morning you can see the scenic view of Mount Makalu, Barun Pokhari, Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and so on. After having breakfast we can explore around Makalu Base Camp, visit Barun Pokhari, Barun Glacier, Swiss Base Camp (5150 m) and so on.

Stay overnight at Tea house in Makalu Base Camp or we can descend down to Shershong by walking about 2 hours to make the trek easier for next day.

makalu-base-camp

After having breakfast in the morning, descend back to Yangri Kharka which takes about 7-8 hours. After ascending for a few hours, the trail moves along a flat level path and at the end it descends to reach Yangri Kharka. En route, you walk through a rocky forest path with views of green hills and huge stones at some distance. Stay overnight at tea house or camp in Yangri Kharka.

trek-in-makalu

After having breakfast in the morning, descend back to Dobato which takes about 7 hours. The trail ascends for almost 3 hours through the same landscape and possibility of landslides. Then you have to trek uphill passing through jungles all the way to Dobato passing through the Nene Kharka, Themathang Khara and Mumbuk. This is not a village but a camping place only. Here, you can find small bushes of rhododendrons. Stay overnight at tea house or camp in Dobato.

-obato-1

After having breakfast in the morning, descend back to Khongma Danda which takes about 6-7 hours.

The trail descends steeply via Shipton La Pass, Keke La Pass and Kalo Pokhari through a dense jungle. Today’s walk will be mix of downhill trials leading to the ridge of Khongma Danda. Overnight at tea house in Tashigaon.

base-camp

After having breakfast in the morning, prepare to descend back to Seduwa which takes about 7 hours walk.

The trek features a gradual descent from the alpine heights of Khongma (approximately 3,500 meters) down to the milder climate of Seduwa village. On today’s journey you pass through thick rhododendron and bamboo forests, flowing streams, and sections with stone steps. As you make your way down, the scenery shifts from rugged high-altitude landscapes to lush greenery and terraced farmland. Seduwa serves as the exit point from Makalu Barun National Park, where trekkers will go through a checkpoint before leaving the remote wilderness area. Stay overnight at Lodge in Tumlingtar.

-akalu-barun-national-park-1

After having breakfast in the morning, you will trek towards Num which takes about 5 hours. At first, you will descend until we reach Arun River for about 2 hours and then ascend for another 3 hours to reach Num. After reaching Num, you will take rest - have lunch and then prepare to return back Tumlingtar. It will be 4 hours’ drive to reach Tumlingtar.

tumlingtar

Early morning scenic 50 minutes flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel. Free day in Kathmandu after arrival in hotel for spa / shopping / excursion. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

tumlingtar-airport

Today is free day in Kathmandu where you will do sightseeing in the UNESCO listed World Heritage sites like:

  • Boudhanath: One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A traditional heritage site enriched with the old museums, great architecture, temples and culture of Newari people (one of the ethnic groups of Nepal.)

Stay overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

bhaktapur-durbar-square-1

Enjoy your last day in Kathmandu before departure. At your scheduled departure time, our correspondent will pick you up from the hotel, transfer you to the airport, and bid you farewell with warm hearts.

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Makalu Base Camp Trek - 18 Days: Cost Details

Includes

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel - Airport including domestic transfers
  • 3 nights at 3-star hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast on twin sharing basis
  • Flight from Kathmandu – Tumlingtar – Kathmandu, (15 kilos per way, per person in the fare), including of trekking guide and all airport taxes
  • Private transportation from Tumlingtar – Num - Tumlingtar including guide & porter(s)
  • Makalu Barun National Park Permit +Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS)
  • All meal (breakfast, lunch and dinner with a cup of tea/coffee) during the trek
  • Accommodation at lodges during the trek
  • Professional Nepal Government License Holder English Speaking Trekking Guide(s) during the trek
  • 1 porter (carrying 20-22 kilos) per two-person basis during the trek
  • Guide(s) and porter(s) all meal, accommodation, daily wages, transportation and insurance
  • Duffel Bag for the trek
  • Achievement certificates of Makalu Base Camp Trek
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Company service charge
  • All necessary government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • International airfare & Nepal VISA fees
  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and medical insurance
  • Emergency Rescue evacuation by helicopter incase needed
  • Hot showers, electric charges and Wi-Fi during the trek
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Visits and/or entrance fees to temples in Kathmandu
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Personal Expenses
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in INCLUDED

Dates & Availability

Select your preffered date
Oct 2025
Mar 2026
Apr 2026
Duration:18Days
Departure Date:05 Oct - 22 Oct, 2025
Status:Available
Price:US$1700US$1755
Duration:18Days
Departure Date:20 Oct - 06 Nov, 2025
Status:Available
Price:US$1700US$1755

Once you’ve booked your trek, we’ll share the available dates and times for an online trip briefing. During this session, we’ll walk you through the gear checklist, explain what to expect on the journey, and answer any questions you may have. The briefing will be scheduled after we receive your essential documents.

Essential Information

Permits Required For Makalu Base Camp Trek

To complete Makalu Base Camp Trek, you’ll need the following trekking permits:

  • Makalu Barun National Park Permit – This is the main permit required to enter and trek within the Makalu Barun Permit which costs NPR 3000.
  • Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) – This permit is used to register trekkers for safety and record-keeping. However, in recent times, TIMS are not so much used, incase not needed only 1 permit is enough to do the trek.

Note: In many cases, only National Park permit is sufficient to complete the trek. Our team at Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition handles all the permit arrangements and provides them to you before the trek begins.

When is the Best Time for Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal?

The best time to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)—the two most favourable & popular trekking seasons in Nepal:

  1. Spring (March – May): During Spring season, you can expect mild temperatures, reliable weather conditions, and vibrant rhododendron forests in full bloom. The skies are usually clear, providing spectacular views of Mt. Makalu along with nearby giants such as Everest, Lhotse, and Chamlang. Wildlife becomes more visible in Makalu Barun National Park, and the trail bursts with lush greenery and colorful flora.
  2. Autumn (September – November): Following the summer monsoon, autumn brings bright blue skies, fresh crisp air, and sweeping views of the mountains. This season is ideal for photography and extended trekking days. Temperatures are pleasant, with warm days and cool nights, and the weather stays mostly stable. Additionally, autumn is a wonderful time to experience Nepal’s important cultural festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, celebrated in the local villages along the route.

Both seasons offer excellent trekking conditions with minimal weather interruptions, trek to Makalu Base Camp (4870 m) is safer, more picturesque, and unforgettable. Book with Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition to make your journey special and memorable!

Meal & Accommodation during the Makalu Base Camp Trek

Along the Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal, accommodation is primarily in basic tea houses and lodges found in villages and rest stops along the route. These modest lodgings offer comfortable rooms with beds, blankets, and either shared or private bathrooms, providing a cozy place to relax after a day of trekking. At higher elevations, amenities may be more limited, so bringing essentials like a sleeping bag is recommended.

Meals during the trek typically feature a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and Western cuisine, including staples such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, momos (dumplings), and pasta. While fresh fruits and vegetables are available seasonally, choices become more restricted at greater altitudes. Warm beverages like tea and coffee are commonly served to help keep you comfortable. Most lodges offer set menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with meals prepared fresh upon request.

Given the remoteness of the area, it’s wise to bring along energy bars, snacks, and water purification supplies to maintain energy and hydration throughout your journey. Overall, the food and lodging are simple but welcoming, reflecting the genuine hospitality of the local communities. The package includes:

A. Breakfast Menu (Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)

B. Lunch Menu (Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)

C. Dinner Menu (Any style Soup + Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)

In busy trekking seasons, it can be hard to find good rooms as lodges fill up fast. That’s why it’s best to book your trip with a trusted company like Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition. We handle all bookings in advance, so you won’t have to worry about accommodation or meals, you just enjoy your trek!

18 Days – Makalu Base Camp Trek - COST FOR 2025 & 2026

Booking for Makalu Base Camp Trek of 18 days is now available for 2025 & 2026. Without compromising on the services, we ensure to provide you quality services. Please check the rate below for group price to Makalu Base Camp Trek:

TARRIFS

2 - 3 pax

4 – 7 pax

8 – 11 pax

12 – 15 pax

2025

US$ 1720 P/P

US$ 1520 P/P

US$ 1500 P/P

US$ 1449 P/P

2026

US$ 1770 P/P

US$ 1570 P/P

US$ 1550 P/P

US$ 1499 P/P

Difficulty Level of Makalu Base Camp Trek – 18 Days Himalayan wilderness trek Nepal

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a demanding and strenuous journey, graded HARD (3/5) making it best suited for seasoned trekkers with good physical fitness who are looking for a remote and rewarding experience in the Himalayas.

The Makalu trek journey spans varied terrain, from low-lying river valleys to rugged high-altitude zones reaching up to 4870 meters – Makalu Base Camp. Trekkers face steep climbs, uneven trails, and long days of walking through some of Nepal’s most undeveloped and isolated regions.

One of the major challenges of this trek is the limited infrastructure—basic accommodation, few resupply points, and unpredictable mountain weather. High-altitude conditions, including cold temperatures and the need for acclimatization, add to the trek’s difficulty. Though no technical climbing is required, strong endurance, prior trekking experience, and mental determination are essential. For those prepared, the trek promises awe-inspiring mountain scenery, high passes like Shipton La (4125 m) & Keke La (4170 m) and a deep connection to Nepal’s untouched wilderness and traditional culture.

Equipment List for Makalu Base Camp Trek - 18 Days

It is advised to pack light but include all essentials required for Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal. 1 porter will carry 20-22 kilos of 2 person so, pack accordingly. 1 client gets to give 10 kilos of bag pack to the helper during the trek. For trekking following items are recommended:

1. Clothing

  • Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms
  • Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jacket
  • Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • Trekking Pants and Shorts
  • Trekking Shirts: Long and short-sleeved
  • Head wear: Warm Hat and Sun Hat
  • Gloves: Light weight and insulated
  • Socks: Wool or synthetic, several pairs
  • Underwear: Moisture-wicking

2. Footwear

  • Trekking Boots: Waterproof with good ankle support
  • A pair of Sandals
  • Gaiters: For snow or muddy conditions

3. Gear

  • Backpack: 50-65 liters with a rain cover
  • Daypack: 20-30 liters
  • Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -10°C
  • Trekking Poles
  • Head lamp: With extra batteries
  • Water Bottles or Hydration System
  • Water Purification Tablets or Filter

4. Accessories

  • Sunglasses: UV protection
  • Sunscreen: SPF 50+
  • Lip Balm: SPF protection
  • First Aid Kit 
  • Personal Medications
  • Trekking Map 
  • Camera and Spare Batteries
  • Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper
  • Snacks and Energy Bars

Tips for the trek

  • Cash: Bring mall denominations for teahouses and tips
  • Physical Preparation: Ensure you have a good level of physical fitness before undertaking the trek.
  • Acclimatization: Take time to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet during the trek.

Makalu Base Camp Trek - 18 Days FAQs

Makalu Base Camp is situated in eastern Nepal inside the Makalu Barun National Park, near the border with Tibet. It lies at the base of Mount Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world (8,485 m).

Makalu Base Camp trek is considered challenging due to its remote location, steep climbs, high altitude (up to 5,050 m), and lack of facilities in some sections. It requires good fitness and prior trekking experience.

The standard itinerary for Makalu Base Camp Trek is 18 to 22 days, including travel time from/to Kathmandu and from the trailhead and acclimatization days. We have tailor made itinerary of 18 Days Makalu Base Camp trek in Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition. 

For Makalu trekking you will need:

  • Makalu Barun National Park Permit
  • TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

These permits will be managed by Asian Adventure Treks during your trekking in Nepal. 

Yes. As of recent rules, all trekkers must be accompanied by a licensed guide, and it is strongly recommended due to the remoteness, lack of signage, and limited connectivity.

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear for mountain views.

No. The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the least crowded treks in Nepal, ideal for solitude and wilderness lovers.

Yes. The trail passes through remote villages inhabited by Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan-origin communities, offering a blend of Buddhist and animist culture.

It is not suitable for beginners due to its length, remoteness, and high altitude. Prior multi-day trekking experience is highly recommended.

As of the latest regulations, independent trekking is not allowed, and you must go with a licensed guide through a registered agency.

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