Makalu Base Camp Trek (MBC Trek) – 16 Days

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Key Points

Start At

Kathmandu

Duration

16 Days

Trekking Grade

Moderate to Challenging

Accommodation

Guest Houses

Max. Altitude

4800

Activity

Trekking

Meals

B.L.D

Best Season

October – March

End At

Kathmandu

Trip Overview

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a 16-day high-altitude adventure in eastern Nepal, offering trekkers close-up views of Makalu (8,463 m), the fifth highest peak in the world, and surrounding Himalayan giants like Lhotse, Chamlang, Baruntse, and Kangchenjunga. The trek passes through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and remote Sherpa villages, combining natural beauty with rich cultural experiences. This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a remote, challenging, and scenic Himalayan adventure, far from the crowds of Everest or Annapurna regions.

Highlights

Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu
Domestic transportation: Kathmandu → Tumlingtar → Kathmandu
Accommodation: 2 nights in Kathmandu, 14 nights in tea houses/lodges during trekking
Full board meals during trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Experienced trekking guide and porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
Trekking permits: Makalu-Barun Conservation Area Permit and TIMS Card
First aid kit and emergency oxygen support
Government taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Arrive at Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day resting and preparing for the high-altitude trek. Attend a briefing about trekking permits, safety, and itinerary details. Explore Thamel markets for supplies or relax at the hotel to acclimatize before heading to eastern Nepal for Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Starting Point: Tribhuvan International Airport
Ending Point: Hotel in Kathmandu

Duration: 30–40 minutes
Total Distance: ~6 km

Important Notes

Arrive and rest after the international flight.
Attend trekking briefing on permits, itinerary, and safety.
Prepare trekking gear including clothing, boots, and accessories.
Acclimatize to Kathmandu’s altitude before trekking.
Optional sightseeing in Thamel for cultural and shopping experiences.

Day 2: Domestic Flight Kathmandu → Tumlingtar → Drive to Num

Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, enjoying aerial views of the Arun Valley. From Tumlingtar, drive through scenic villages, rivers, and forests to reach Num, the starting point of the trek. Overnight at a local lodge, resting and preparing for trekking into the pristine Makalu-Barun region.

Starting Point: Kathmandu
Ending Point: Num

Duration: 4–5 hours (flight + drive)
Total Distance: ~150 km

Important Notes

Morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar; check-in early.
Scenic drive from Tumlingtar to Num through villages and forests.
Carry light daypack with essentials for short trek ahead.
Check-in at lodge upon arrival.
Hydrate and rest for the first day of trekking.

Day 3: Trek Num → Seduwa (1,750 m)

Start trekking from Num to Seduwa, following trails along rivers and forests. Pass through traditional villages and small wooden bridges. Enjoy the serenity of the Makalu-Barun Conservation Area, surrounded by lush vegetation. Arrive at Seduwa tea house for overnight stay, interacting with locals and observing Sherpa village life.

Starting Point: Num
Ending Point: Seduwa

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Easy to moderate trek; follow river trails.
Observe the traditional villages and rural lifestyle.
Stay hydrated and take breaks along the trail.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodation.
Begin acclimatizing to elevation changes.

Day 4: Trek Seduwa → Kharikhola (2,100 m)

Trek from Seduwa to Kharikhola, passing through rhododendron forests and small streams. Cross suspension bridges and observe local Sherpa culture. Arrive at Kharikhola tea house, enjoy warm meals, and prepare for higher altitude trekking into Barun Valley.

Starting Point: Seduwa
Ending Point: Kharikhola

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Moderate trek with gradual ascent.
Cross suspension bridges and forested trails.
Tea houses offer warm meals and lodging.
Keep pace steady for acclimatization.
Capture scenic landscapes and river views.

Day 5: Trek Kharikhola → Tashigaon (2,600 m)

Trek from Kharikhola to Tashigaon, following trails through forests and riverbanks. The trail gradually ascends, offering scenic views of the surrounding peaks and alpine meadows. Overnight stay at Tashigaon tea house, preparing for the trek deeper into Barun Valley.

Starting Point: Kharikhola
Ending Point: Tashigaon

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Moderate uphill trekking; pace yourself.
Tea houses available for rest and meals.
Observe alpine flora and river views.
Take breaks to acclimatize to higher altitude.
Carry sufficient water and snack

Day 6: Trek Tashigaon → Dobate (3,200 m)

Ascend from Tashigaon to Dobate, passing through dense forests and glacial streams. Enjoy views of Makalu and surrounding peaks. Tea house accommodation is available for overnight stay. Take time to acclimatize for the higher altitude trekking ahead.

Starting Point: Tashigaon
Ending Point: Dobate

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Steeper ascent; moderate to challenging trek.
Tea houses provide accommodation and meals.
Watch for loose gravel on trails.
Stay hydrated and take regular breaks.
Enjoy the pristine wilderness and forest views.

Day 7: Trek Dobate → Yangle Kharka (3,700 m)

Trek from Dobate to Yangle Kharka, passing through open alpine meadows and glacial streams. The trail offers stunning views of Makalu and Chamlang peaks. Local grazing yaks and birds add charm to the landscape. Overnight stay at Yangle Kharka tea house, resting and acclimatizing for the upcoming ascent to Mumbuk.

Starting Point: Dobate
Ending Point: Yangle Kharka

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Moderate to challenging trek with uphill sections.
Cross open alpine meadows and small streams.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodation.
Stay hydrated and pace yourself for altitude adjustment.
Observe wildlife and alpine flora along the trail.

Day 8: Trek Yangle Kharka → Mumbuk (4,200 m)

Ascend from Yangle Kharka to Mumbuk, trekking through rocky paths, glaciers, and alpine meadows. The trail gradually climbs toward Makalu Base Camp, offering breathtaking vistas of surrounding Himalayan peaks. Overnight at a tea house in Mumbuk allows trekkers to rest and acclimatize properly.

Starting Point: Yangle Kharka
Ending Point: Mumbuk

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Steep ascent; trek can be physically demanding.
Carry warm clothing for cold weather at higher altitude.
Tea houses provide accommodation and hot meals.
Take frequent breaks to avoid altitude sickness.
Enjoy the panoramic views of Baruntse, Chamlang, and Makalu peaks.

Day 9: Trek Mumbuk → Khongma (4,600 m)

Trek from Mumbuk to Khongma, crossing alpine meadows and glacier-fed streams. The trail becomes more rugged as you approach the high-altitude region. Take breaks to acclimatize and capture the stunning mountain scenery. Overnight stay at Khongma tea house prepares trekkers for the approach to Makalu Base Camp.

Starting Point: Mumbuk
Ending Point: Khongma

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

High-altitude trekking; pace yourself carefully.
Carry enough water and snacks for energy.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodations.
Watch for loose rocks along the trail.
Enjoy glacier views and Himalayan panoramas

Day 10: Trek Khongma → Makalu Base Camp (4,800 m)

Reach the Makalu Base Camp, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks. The trek is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine valleys, and remote peaks. Settle into base camp accommodations and soak in the unique experience of being at the foot of Makalu, the world’s fifth highest mountain.

Starting Point: Khongma
Ending Point: Makalu Base Camp

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Challenging high-altitude trek; stay alert and pace yourself.
Carry warm clothing and trekking poles for stability.
Tea house or tent accommodation at base camp.
Take breaks and hydrate to prevent altitude sickness.
Enjoy panoramic views of Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, and Lhotse peaks.

Day 11: Explore Makalu Base Camp & Nearby Viewpoints

Spend the day exploring Makalu Base Camp and nearby viewpoints. Capture panoramic views of Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, and other Himalayan peaks. Observe glacial valleys and alpine meadows. Overnight stay at base camp provides time to relax and enjoy the remote wilderness.

Starting Point: Makalu Base Camp
Ending Point: Makalu Base Camp

Duration: 4–5 hours
Total Distance: ~6 km

Important Notes

Moderate walk around base camp and nearby viewpoints.
Take photos of glaciers, peaks, and surrounding landscapes.
Carry warm clothes and water.
Watch for slippery rocks and ice near glaciers.
Acclimatize further before starting descent

Day 12: Trek Makalu Base Camp → Khongma

Begin the descent from Makalu Base Camp to Khongma, retracing through alpine meadows and glacial paths. Take in final panoramic views of Makalu and surrounding peaks. Overnight stay at Khongma tea house offers rest after the high-altitude trekking

Starting Point: Makalu Base Camp
Ending Point: Khongma

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Descend carefully on rocky trails.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodation.
Keep pace steady to avoid slips or fatigue.
Enjoy last panoramic views of Makalu from the descent.
Hydrate and eat well to recover energy

Day 13: Trek Khongma → Yangle Kharka → Dobate

Descend from Khongma to Dobate via Yangle Kharka, enjoying alpine meadows, forests, and glacial streams. Experience the peaceful wilderness and interact with local Sherpa communities. Overnight stay at tea houses provides comfort after a long descent

Starting Point: Khongma
Ending Point: Dobate

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~15 km

Important Notes

Moderate descent; pace yourself.
Take breaks and enjoy scenic views along rivers and forests.
Tea houses available for meals and lodging.
Observe local flora and fauna along the trail.
Stay hydrated during the long trekking day

Day 14: Trek Dobate → Tashigaon → Kharikhola

Descend from Dobate to Kharikhola, passing Tashigaon. Enjoy scenic rivers, forests, and terraced valleys along the trail. Overnight stay at a tea house in Kharikhola provides a well-deserved rest and preparation for the drive back to Tumlingtar

Starting Point: Dobate
Ending Point: Kharikhola

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~18 km

Important Notes

Long descent; maintain steady pace.
Tea houses available at Tashigaon and Kharikhola for meals and stay.
Watch for slippery and rocky trails.
Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.
Enjoy last views of Makalu-Barun Conservation Area

Day 15: Trek Kharikhola → Seduwa → Num → Drive to Tumlingtar → Fly to Kathmandu

Descend through Seduwa and Num, drive to Tumlingtar, and take a domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy the last glimpses of forests, rivers, and villages along the way. Check into your hotel in Kathmandu for a comfortable overnight stay after the 16-day trek

Starting Point: Kharikhola
Ending Point: Kathmandu

Duration: Full day (trek + drive + flight)
Total Distance: ~120 km

Important Notes

Long travel day; start early for timely arrival at Tumlingtar.
Domestic flight back to Kathmandu; check-in early.
Enjoy final forest and village views along the descent.
Keep luggage ready and carry essential items in daypack.
Overnight in Kathmandu hotel; rest after journey

Day 16: Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Conclude the memorable Makalu Base Camp Trek, reflecting on pristine Himalayan landscapes, glaciers, alpine valleys, and Sherpa culture. Take home unforgettable experiences and panoramic memories of the world’s fifth-highest peak

Starting Point: Hotel, Kathmandu
Ending Point: Tribhuvan International Airport

Important Notes

Ensure all belongings are packed for departure.
Airport transfer arranged by trekking company.
Allow extra time for Kathmandu traffic.
Carry light snacks and water for airport journey.
Celebrate completion of the Makalu Base Camp Trek

Itinerary Details :

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Starting Point: Tribhuvan International Airport
Ending Point: Hotel in Kathmandu

Duration: 30–40 minutes
Total Distance: ~6 km

Important Notes

Arrive and rest after the international flight.
Attend trekking briefing on permits, itinerary, and safety.
Prepare trekking gear including clothing, boots, and accessories.
Acclimatize to Kathmandu’s altitude before trekking.
Optional sightseeing in Thamel for cultural and shopping experiences.

Day 2: Domestic Flight Kathmandu → Tumlingtar → Drive to Num

Starting Point: Kathmandu
Ending Point: Num

Duration: 4–5 hours (flight + drive)
Total Distance: ~150 km

Important Notes

Morning flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar; check-in early.
Scenic drive from Tumlingtar to Num through villages and forests.
Carry light daypack with essentials for short trek ahead.
Check-in at lodge upon arrival.
Hydrate and rest for the first day of trekking.

Day 3: Trek Num → Seduwa (1,750 m)

Starting Point: Num
Ending Point: Seduwa

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Easy to moderate trek; follow river trails.
Observe the traditional villages and rural lifestyle.
Stay hydrated and take breaks along the trail.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodation.
Begin acclimatizing to elevation changes.

Day 4: Trek Seduwa → Kharikhola (2,100 m)

Starting Point: Seduwa
Ending Point: Kharikhola

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Moderate trek with gradual ascent.
Cross suspension bridges and forested trails.
Tea houses offer warm meals and lodging.
Keep pace steady for acclimatization.
Capture scenic landscapes and river views.

Day 5: Trek Kharikhola → Tashigaon (2,600 m)

Starting Point: Kharikhola
Ending Point: Tashigaon

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Moderate uphill trekking; pace yourself.
Tea houses available for rest and meals.
Observe alpine flora and river views.
Take breaks to acclimatize to higher altitude.
Carry sufficient water and snack

Day 6: Trek Tashigaon → Dobate (3,200 m)

Starting Point: Tashigaon
Ending Point: Dobate

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Steeper ascent; moderate to challenging trek.
Tea houses provide accommodation and meals.
Watch for loose gravel on trails.
Stay hydrated and take regular breaks.
Enjoy the pristine wilderness and forest views.

Day 7: Trek Dobate → Yangle Kharka (3,700 m)

Starting Point: Dobate
Ending Point: Yangle Kharka

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Moderate to challenging trek with uphill sections.
Cross open alpine meadows and small streams.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodation.
Stay hydrated and pace yourself for altitude adjustment.
Observe wildlife and alpine flora along the trail.

Day 8: Trek Yangle Kharka → Mumbuk (4,200 m)

Starting Point: Yangle Kharka
Ending Point: Mumbuk

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Steep ascent; trek can be physically demanding.
Carry warm clothing for cold weather at higher altitude.
Tea houses provide accommodation and hot meals.
Take frequent breaks to avoid altitude sickness.
Enjoy the panoramic views of Baruntse, Chamlang, and Makalu peaks.

Day 9: Trek Mumbuk → Khongma (4,600 m)

Starting Point: Mumbuk
Ending Point: Khongma

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

High-altitude trekking; pace yourself carefully.
Carry enough water and snacks for energy.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodations.
Watch for loose rocks along the trail.
Enjoy glacier views and Himalayan panoramas

Day 10: Trek Khongma → Makalu Base Camp (4,800 m)

Starting Point: Khongma
Ending Point: Makalu Base Camp

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~12 km

Important Notes

Challenging high-altitude trek; stay alert and pace yourself.
Carry warm clothing and trekking poles for stability.
Tea house or tent accommodation at base camp.
Take breaks and hydrate to prevent altitude sickness.
Enjoy panoramic views of Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, and Lhotse peaks.

Day 11: Explore Makalu Base Camp & Nearby Viewpoints

Starting Point: Makalu Base Camp
Ending Point: Makalu Base Camp

Duration: 4–5 hours
Total Distance: ~6 km

Important Notes

Moderate walk around base camp and nearby viewpoints.
Take photos of glaciers, peaks, and surrounding landscapes.
Carry warm clothes and water.
Watch for slippery rocks and ice near glaciers.
Acclimatize further before starting descent

Day 12: Trek Makalu Base Camp → Khongma

Starting Point: Makalu Base Camp
Ending Point: Khongma

Duration: 5–6 hours
Total Distance: ~10 km

Important Notes

Descend carefully on rocky trails.
Tea houses provide meals and accommodation.
Keep pace steady to avoid slips or fatigue.
Enjoy last panoramic views of Makalu from the descent.
Hydrate and eat well to recover energy

Day 13: Trek Khongma → Yangle Kharka → Dobate

Starting Point: Khongma
Ending Point: Dobate

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~15 km

Important Notes

Moderate descent; pace yourself.
Take breaks and enjoy scenic views along rivers and forests.
Tea houses available for meals and lodging.
Observe local flora and fauna along the trail.
Stay hydrated during the long trekking day

Day 14: Trek Dobate → Tashigaon → Kharikhola

Starting Point: Dobate
Ending Point: Kharikhola

Duration: 6–7 hours
Total Distance: ~18 km

Important Notes

Long descent; maintain steady pace.
Tea houses available at Tashigaon and Kharikhola for meals and stay.
Watch for slippery and rocky trails.
Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.
Enjoy last views of Makalu-Barun Conservation Area

Day 15: Trek Kharikhola → Seduwa → Num → Drive to Tumlingtar → Fly to Kathmandu

Starting Point: Kharikhola
Ending Point: Kathmandu

Duration: Full day (trek + drive + flight)
Total Distance: ~120 km

Important Notes

Long travel day; start early for timely arrival at Tumlingtar.
Domestic flight back to Kathmandu; check-in early.
Enjoy final forest and village views along the descent.
Keep luggage ready and carry essential items in daypack.
Overnight in Kathmandu hotel; rest after journey

Day 16: Departure from Kathmandu

Starting Point: Hotel, Kathmandu
Ending Point: Tribhuvan International Airport

Important Notes

Ensure all belongings are packed for departure.
Airport transfer arranged by trekking company.
Allow extra time for Kathmandu traffic.
Carry light snacks and water for airport journey.
Celebrate completion of the Makalu Base Camp Trek

Package Include

Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu
Domestic transportation: Kathmandu → Tumlingtar → Kathmandu
Accommodation: 2 nights in Kathmandu, 14 nights in tea houses/lodges during trekking
Full board meals during trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Experienced trekking guide and porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
Trekking permits: Makalu-Barun Conservation Area Permit and TIMS Card
First aid kit and emergency oxygen support
Government taxes and service charges

Package Exclude

International airfare to/from Nepal
Travel insurance including high-altitude coverage
Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner)
Personal expenses, tips for guide/porter
Sleeping bags (can be rented)
Snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and laundry charges