Makalu Three Pass Trek (Baruntse Col - Sherpani Col & Amphu Laptse)

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Makalu Three Pass Trek is one of Nepal’s most demanding and adventurous high-altitude treks, perfect for experienced trekkers looking to push their limits in the remote Himalayas. Starting from Tumlingtar in the Makalu region and ending at Lukla in the Everest region, this challenging route crosses three of the highest and most technical Himalayan passes: Sherpani Col (6135 m), Baruntse Col (6120 m), and Amphu Laptse Pass (5845 m). The trail leads deep into the Makalu-Barun National Park, offering unmatched solitude, raw wilderness, and awe-inspiring views of towering peaks including Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse.

This trek is not only a test of physical endurance but also a journey through some of Nepal’s most pristine alpine landscapes—glacial valleys, icy passes, and untouched high-altitude terrain. The Makalu Three Pass Trek of 25 days in Nepal is ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking isolation, adventure, and dramatic Himalayan scenery, far from the commercial trekking routes. 

Highlights of Makalu Three Pass Trek - Baruntse Col - Sherpani Col & Amphu Laptse

  • Embark on a rare cross-Himalayan trek, starting in Tumlingtar of the Makalu region and finishing in Lukla, the gateway to Everest.
  • Experience the pristine beauty of Makalu-Barun National Park, a less-traveled region offering unparalleled solitude and natural beauty.
  • Cross three challenging passes - Baruntse Col (6000 m), Sherpani Col (6135 m), and Amphu Laptse BC (5845 m), each presenting its own set of challenges and rewarding views.
  • Witness panoramic vistas of some of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Makalu (8485 m), Mount Everest (8848m), Mount Lhotse (8516 m), and Mount Baruntse (7129 m).
  • Enjoy uninterrupted views of legendary peaks such as Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, Chamlang, and Baruntse, along with dramatic glaciers and alpine valleys.
  • Explore traditional Sherpa and Rai villages, gaining insight into the unique cultures and lifestyles of the high Himalayas.
  • Due to the isolated nature of the route, accommodation is mostly in tents—giving you a genuine expedition-style adventure.
  • Walk through one of Nepal’s least-touched conservation areas, rich in biodiversity and remote natural beauty.
  • Trek through secluded mountain valleys rarely visited by others, offering a peaceful escape from the crowded mainstream routes.
Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
25 Days
Trip Grade
Challenging
Max. Altitude
6146
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Walking / Hiking
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodges / Tented Camp
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

Explore the Remote Himalayas: Makalu Three Pass Trek via Sherpani, Baruntse & Amphu Laptse

Makalu Three Pass Trek is a demanding and exhilarating journey that begins in the Makalu region, Tumlingtar and concludes in the Everest region, specifically in Lukla. Spanning 22 Trekking Days, this trek involves crossing three high passes—Baruntse Col, Sherpani Col, and Amphu Laptse —each presenting its own technical challenges and breathtaking vistas.

This trek is particularly suitable for experienced trekkers who are well-versed in high-altitude trekking and seek an adventurous and remote experience. The trek starts with a flight to Tumlingtar, followed by a progression through Num, Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma Danda, Mumbuk, Yangri Kharka, Langma Le Kharka, and Makalu Base Camp. After this, the journey continues through the challenging segments of the trek: Baruntse East Col, Glacier Camp, Sherpani Col Base Camp, West Col, and Amphu Laptse Base Camp, before entering the Everest region. Here, trekkers reach Chukkung and then descend to Tengboche, Namche Bazaar, and finally take a flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu.

Renowned for its technical difficulty and stunning landscapes, the Makalu Amphu Laptse Trek attracts a small number of trekkers each year, primarily those who relish the challenge of high passes and the thrill of remote adventures. It is less crowded compared to other treks in Nepal but holds significant appeal among climbers and trekkers who are passionate about traversing high-altitude terrains.

The best times to do this Makalu Three Pass trek (Baruntse Col, Sherpani Col and Amphu Laptsa Pass) are during March – May (Spring) and (September – November) Autumn seasons, when the weather is most favorable and the views are at their clearest. This trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Himalayas, making it a coveted adventure for those who seek both challenge and solitude.

Why Trek the Makalu Three Pass with Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition?

When you choose Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition for the Makalu Three Pass Trek, you're partnering with a team that combines deep local knowledge, a passion for adventure, and a strong focus on your safety and experience. Here's what makes us the right choice:

  • Specialists in Remote & Technical Trails: We have extensive experience leading treks through Nepal’s most challenging and secluded regions, including high-altitude passes like Sherpani Col, Baruntse Col, and Amphu Laptse, making us experts in remote Himalayan travel.
  • Professional planner for your vacation: Our guides are licensed, experienced, and equipped with knowledge in high-altitude navigation, emergency response, and wilderness first aid, ensuring a safe and informed trekking experience.
  • Complete Expedition Support: We handle all camping arrangements for the remote sections, including tents, meals, cooking staff, and safety equipment, delivering a fully supported expedition-style trek.
  • Personalized Trekking Experience: We design flexible itineraries based on your fitness level, pace, and acclimatization needs—offering a journey that’s both challenging and rewarding.
  • Safety First at High Altitude: Your well-being is our top priority. We carry oximeters, first aid kits, and ensure regular health checks to monitor your acclimatization and prevent altitude sickness.
  • Convenient Trekking Services: We provide everything you need: Kathmandu airport transfers, complimentary duffle bags, trek maps, and secure luggage storage, so you can trek worry-free.
  • Local Values with a Global Standard: As a reliable Nepali company, we practice sustainable tourism, support local communities, and guarantee fair treatment of our guides and porters—ensuring your adventure is both ethical and unforgettable.

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
Drive
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
Max Altitude
2,100m / 6,889ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 06:Tashigaon – Khongma Danda (3500 m)
Max Altitude
3,500m / 11,482ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 07:Khongma – Shipton La (4125 m) – Keke La (4170 m) - Dobato (3890 m)
Max Altitude
3,890m / 12,762ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 08:Dobato - Yangri Kharka (3557 m)
Max Altitude
3,557m / 11,669ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 09:Yangri Kharka – Langma Le Kharka (4410 m)
Max Altitude
4,410m / 14,468ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 10:Langma Le Kharka - Makalu Base Camp (4870 m)
Max Altitude
4,870m / 15,977ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 11:Rest Day at Makalu Base Camp (4870 m)
Max Altitude
4,870m / 15,977ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 12:Makalu Base Camp – Baruntse East Col / Glacier Camp (5400 m)
Max Altitude
5,400m / 17,716ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 13:Baruntse East Col/ Glacier Camp - Sherpani Col Base Camp (5600m)
Max Altitude
5,600m / 18,372ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 14:Sherpani Col Base Camp - High Camp (5900 m)
Max Altitude
5,900m / 19,356ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 15:High Camp - West Col (6143 m)
Max Altitude
6,143m / 20,154ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 16:West Col - Baruntse South Base Camp (5565 m)
Max Altitude
5,565m / 18,257ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 17:Baruntse Base Camp - Amphu Laptse Base Camp (5527 m)
Max Altitude
5,527m / 18,133ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 18:Amphu Laptse Base Camp – Baruntse North Base camp (5100 m)
Max Altitude
5,100m / 16,732ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 19:Baruntse North Base Camp - Chhukung (4730 m)
Max Altitude
4,730m / 15,518ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 20:Chukkung- Tengboche (3860 m)
Max Altitude
3,860m / 12,664ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 21:Tengboche - Namche Bazar (3440 m)
Max Altitude
3,440m / 11,286ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 22:Namche Bazar – Phakding – Lukla (2840 m)
Max Altitude
2,840m / 9,317ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 23:Lukla - Kathmandu (1350 m)
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 24:Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 25:Departure from Kathmandu
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Makalu Three Pass Trek (Baruntse Col - Sherpani Col & Amphu Laptse) 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

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-2

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.

-akalu-barun-national-park-2

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.

seduwa-1

Rest and acclimatization day in Tashigaon

tumlingtar-1

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.

tashigaun-1

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--1

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.

yangri-kharka-2

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-4

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.

base-camp-1

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-1

After an early breakfast, trek through a zigzag rocky trail from Makalu Base Camp to reach Baruntse East Col. This section is demanding, taking about 6-7 hours to navigate through rocky terrain and high altitude. Overnight at a tented camp.

sherpini-col-pass-makalu-trek

After having breakfast in the morning, you will begin our walk for about 6-7 hours to reach to Sherpani Col Base Camp. This trail is almost steep up and rocky. This day’s trek is one of the most challenging and exhilarating segments of the Makalu Three Pass Trek. Starting from Baruntse East Col/Glacier Camp, you will navigate through a steep, rocky trail to reach Sherpani Col Base Camp. The path is mostly a steep ascent, marked by rugged terrain and breathtaking alpine scenery.

After 6-7 hours of intense trekking, we will reach Sherpani Col Base Camp. This location is a remote, high-altitude camp, offering a unique sense of isolation and tranquility. The base camp is situated in a rocky and icy landscape, surrounded by towering peaks and expansive glaciers. Overnight at Tented Camp.

makalu

From Sherpani Col Base Camp, the trek to High Camp at 5900m is a strenuous journey that takes approximately 6-7 hours. The trail is steep and characterized by loose, rocky terrain, demanding careful navigation and significant physical effort. As you ascend, the rugged path requires a steady pace and frequent breaks to manage the altitude and maintain energy levels. The ascent is technical, necessitating the use of climbing gear such as crampons and ice axes for safety.

On the way, the trekkers are rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks, including Mount Makalu, Mount Kanchenjunga, and Mount Baruntse. The breathtaking scenery provides a majestic backdrop to this challenging section of the trek. Today’s trek concludes with an overnight stay in a tented camp at High Camp, where the isolation and grandeur of the high-altitude environment create a memorable and serene experience. As the sun sets, the peaks glow with a golden hue, making the arduous journey profoundly rewarding. Overnight at Tented camp.

nepal-makalu-base-camp-trek-in-himalayas-1-

Today is one of the demanding days, the trek from High Camp to West Col takes about 8-9 hours. The journey begins with a steep ascent to Sherpani Col Pass, where trekkers must navigate through loose rocky terrain and ice. The trail requires technical climbing skills, including the use of crampons, ice axes, and ropes. After reaching the summit of Sherpani Col at (6146 m), a breathtaking vantage point offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Makalu, Baruntse, and the distant Kanchenjunga. From the Col, you have to descend down which leads to flat, snow-covered area, from where you will cross straight across to reach West Col. Overnight at Tented camp

-hipton-a-ass---akalu-trek

Today we will trek to Baruntse South Base Camp which takes approximately 7-8 hours. The day begins with a descent from West Col, which requires careful footing and technical skills due to the steep and icy conditions. We must use ropes and crampons to safely navigate this section. Once we pass the initial descent, we have to walk through the mixture of rocky and snowy landscapes, characterized by glacial moraines that demand constant vigilance and skillful maneuvering. As we trek along, we can see best views of Baruntse, Makalu, and other towering peaks which is like cherry on top. Overnight at Tented camp

Today we will trek to Amphu Laptse Base Camp which takes approximately 7-8 hours. Starting from the expansive Baruntse Base Camp, we will trek through the glacier landscape marked by steep ascends and descends. Upon reaching Amphu Laptse Base Camp, we will be rewarded with a remote and serene campsite amidst the high-altitude wilderness. Overnight at Tented camp.

Today we will trek to Baruntse North Base Camp which takes approximately 7-8 hours. At beginning, we will have to ascend towards Amphu Laptse Pass (5845 m), a technical and demanding climb that involves using ropes and climbing equipment due to the steep and icy conditions.

From the pass we can see breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Makalu and Lhotse. After crossing the pass, we will descend through rugged terrain, navigating rocky slopes and glaciers. We will continue to descend down through a landscape of alpine meadows and moraines, with occasional encounters with local wildlife such as Himalayan birds and wildflowers. Upon reaching Baruntse North Base Camp, we will be surrounded by the tranquillity and grandeur of the high Himalayas. Overnight at Tented camp.

The trek from Baruntse North Base Camp to Chhukung takes about 5 -6 hours. The trail from Base camp to Chukung is slightly zig-zag and straight.

The trek from Baruntse North Base Camp to Chhukung is a relatively moderate trek which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. At first, we will descend through rocky and moraines areas, through rugged terrain of the Baruntse region. As we continue, the trek becomes slightly zig-zag as it descends towards the valley floor.

The trek then leads through alpine meadows and lower altitude landscapes as it approaches Chhukung. The trail transitions from rocky sections to a more gradual descent as it approaches the village. Upon reaching Chhukung, a small settlement nestled in the shadows of Lhotse and Island Peak, trekkers can enjoy a well-deserved rest and refreshments. The village offers basic amenities and provides a scenic and serene environment for an overnight stay in a local lodge. This segment of the trek provides a smooth conclusion to the challenging high-altitude segments, offering trekkers a chance to relax and absorb the beauty of the Khumbu region. Overnight at Tented camp.

This day you will have breakfast in the lodge and then begin to descend towards Tengboche which takes about 5 hours. As you descending back with the amazing memories, hardship and simplicity of Everest, you have no rush & will slowly descend via different beautiful Sherpa villages like: Dingboche, Pangboche, Debuche and finally reach Tengboche.

Tengboche is one of the important destinations which has the oldest monastery – Tengboche Gompa. We can visit around the gompa while we are in Tengboche. Stay overnight at Lodge.

This day you will have breakfast and start the day with beautiful views of Everest and Lhotse. The trek begins with a steep descent until crossing the river in the town of Phumki. We continue going up to Namche Bazar which takes about 3 hours. The first view of Namche Bazar with the stupa, monastery, lodges and the beautiful gates is amazing. As we reach Namche Bazar we can explore around buy gifts of souvenir if you want. Stay overnight at Lodge.

namche-bazzar

After having breakfast in the lodge, you will descend back towards Lukla through the same trial via Phakding. As you trek back to Lukla we get to spend the last night in the Khumbu region of Everest. You will descend towards Phakding from Lukla in about 3.5 hours have lunch in Phakding. From here, we will again descend towards Lukla through the zigzag trial in another 4.5 hours.

Upon arrival in Lukla, enjoy your last stay in Khumbu region, have group dinner and enjoy your final stay with warm memories and lifetime adventure in Khumbu region just spent. Stay overnight at Lodge.

phakding-3

Today in the early morning (6 am onwards) you will take a flight from Tenzing Hillary Airport (an "eagle's nest") to fly to Kathmandu or Ramechhap (subject to availability). The time of the flight will depend on the weather conditions. After arrival in Kathmandu and you can rest whole day. Stay overnight at hotel.

lukla-airport-3

Free day in Kathmandu for sightseeing / shopping / massage. We can do half day sightseeing in the UNESCO listed World Heritage sites like:

  • Swoyambhunath: Also known as the Monkey Temple, it offers panoramic views of Kathmandu.
  • Boudhanath: One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Pashupatinath: A sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River.
swoyambhu

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 Three Pass Trek (Baruntse Col - Sherpani Col & Amphu Laptse): Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport-Hotel-Airport Transfers, including domestic airport
  • 3 Nights with breakfast at the 3*/4*/5* star hotel in Kathmandu, with breakfast in sharing basis
  • Flight tickets Kathmandu-Tumlingtar and Lukla - Kathmandu, including the guide and airport taxes
  • Ground transportation of Kathmandu-Tumlingtar porters and return to Kathmandu
  • Transportation by Local Jeep Tumlingtar-Num, including guide and porters
  • Accommodation in the lodge and camping tents during the trek
  • All meals: breakfast, (lunch and dinner) with a tea-coffee) during the trek
  • Hiring and equipping of a mountain guide
  • A guide and porters needed during the trek
  • Fixed rope, screws and ice stakes, one camping tent for every two people, kitchen tent, bathroom tent and kitchen utensils during the camping period
  • Entrance fee Makalu Barun National Parks + Everest + Khumbu Fees
  • Insurance, equipment, food, accommodation, and salary of the guide and porter(s)
  • Duffel Bag during the trek
  • Achievement certificate of Makalu Three Pass Trek
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Company service charge
  • All necessary government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • International flight ticket & Nepal VISA fee
  • 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

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 Three Pass 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 Three Pass Trek?

The optimal times to embark on the Makalu 3 Pass Trek (Baruntse Col, Sherpani Col, and Amphu Laptse) in Nepal are during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally stable with clear skies, making for excellent trekking conditions. 

  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.

Accommodation during the Makalu Three Pass Trek

Accommodation options during the Makalu 3 Pass Trek vary depending on the location:

  • Lodges: Available in some of the villages along the trekking route.
  • Tented Camps: Commonly used in more remote and high-altitude locations where lodges are not available. Trekkers will stay in tents at base camps or designated camping areas. Tented camps provide basic accommodation with sleeping tents, dining tents, and necessary facilities for a comfortable stay amidst the wilderness.

Meals during the Makalu Three Pass Trek

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!

Difficulty Level of the Makalu Three Pass Trek

The Makalu Three Pass Trek is regarded as one of Nepal’s toughest and most technical trekking routes – graded CHALLENGING, designed for seasoned and physically strong adventurers. The trail ventures deep into remote, high-altitude terrain and challenges trekkers with three major passes: Sherpani Col (6135 m), Baruntse Col (6120 m), and Amphu Laptse (5845 m). These high crossings involve traversing glaciers, negotiating rope-assisted climbs, and managing steep, icy ascents and descents.

Major Challenges:

  • High Elevation Risk: With several sections above 6,000 meters, the risk of altitude sickness is significant without careful acclimatization.
  • Technical Climbing Sections: Equipment such as crampons, ropes, harnesses, and ice axes are often necessary—especially across Sherpani and Amphu Laptse.
  • No Teahouses or Lodges: The high pass zone is extremely isolated, requiring full camping logistics throughout that section.
  • Demanding Daily Walks: Expect long trekking days, some lasting up to 8–10 hours over rugged, snowy, and unstable paths.
  • Unpredictable Weather: Conditions in these high mountains can shift quickly, adding to the challenge and requiring flexible planning.

Best Suited For:

  • Trekkers with previous experience at high altitude
  • Those familiar with technical trekking and mountain gear
  • Individuals in excellent physical and mental condition

Proper acclimatization, expert guidance, and the right equipment are essential for completing this intense and remote Himalayan journey—a true adventure for those seeking the wild side of Nepal’s mountains.

Equipment List for Makalu Three Pass Trek (Baruntse Col - Sherpani Col & Amphu Laptse)

It is advised to pack light but include all essentials required for Makalu Three Pass Trek in Nepal. 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 Three Pass Trek (Baruntse Col - Sherpani Col & Amphu Laptse) 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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