Embark on a Raw Himalayan Adventure to Makalu Base Camp (18 Days) Join me on an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and pristine trekking regions. The Makalu Base Camp Trek offers raw wilderness, dramatic mountain landscapes, and rich cultural encounters far from the crowds. This trek leads you to the base of Mt. Makalu (8,485m), the world’s fifth-highest peak, passing through the stunning Makalu-Barun National Park, traditional Sherpa villages, and lush rhododendron forests. This 18-day adventure is designed for true trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience with dramatic scenery, alpine wilderness, and fewer trekkers on the trail. We’ll traverse high-altitude passes, glacial rivers, and rugged terrain, all while staying in teahouses and local accommodations that reflect the region’s authenticity. Trip Highlights: Stunning views of Mt. Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and Chamlang Trek through the remote Makalu-Barun Valley Explore traditional Sherpa and Rai villages Diverse ecosystems from tropical forests to alpine glaciers An authentic and less-commercialized Himalayan experience Itinerary: Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu Day 2: Flight to Tumlingtar & drive to Num Day 3-6: Trek from Num to Tashigaon and over the Khongma Danda Day 7-9: Cross Shipton La Pass, descend to Barun Valley Day 10-12: Reach Makalu Base Camp and explore Day 13-15: Return via the same trail Day 16: Drive back to Tumlingtar Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu Day 18: Departure or free day in Kathmandu This trek is moderately to highly challenging and best suited for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. If you crave solitude, epic landscapes, and a connection with raw nature, this trip is for you!
Hi! I’m Pujan, a passionate and experienced trekking guide based in Nepal. As the founder of Bodhitree Tour and Travel, I specialize in crafting authentic trekking experiences that connect travelers with Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultures. I’ve guided treks all over Nepal, and Makalu is one of my favorites for its untouched beauty and peaceful trails. My goal is to offer not just a trek, but a mindful journey — where adventure meets connection with nature, culture, and self. I’m looking forward to sharing this epic journey with fellow nature lovers and explorers who are ready to challenge themselves and create unforgettable memories in the Himalayas.
In Kathmandu (Before and After the Trek): You’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (on a twin-sharing basis). The hotel will be centrally located in Thamel — close to restaurants, gear shops, and cultural sites. Rooms are clean and cozy, with private bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included. During the Trek: Accommodation on the trek will be in basic local teahouses or community lodges. These are simple but hospitable lodges run by locals in remote villages. Rooms are generally twin-sharing with basic beds, blankets, and shared toilets (some squat-style). Heating is limited at higher altitudes, so warm sleeping bags are recommended. In extremely remote sections (especially near base camp), basic homestays or dorm-style rooms may be used depending on availability. The experience is authentic, offering a rare glimpse into Himalayan mountain life. Important Notes: Warm blankets are usually provided, but bringing your own sleeping bag is essential. Hot showers and charging facilities may be limited and come at an extra cost in higher altitudes. We stay flexible depending on weather and group pace — comfort and safety are prioritized.
What's included?
Airport pickup and drop
Accommodation in Kathmandu
3 times meal during trek
All the required premits
English/licensed guide
All the expenses of guide
2 way domestic flights tickets
Local transport
Necessary trekking gears
First Aid kit
Your Booking includes free protection from Trip cancellations. Learn More
Licensed trekking & city guide across Nepal 🇳🇵 Sharing hidden trails, culture & stories for a truly local and meaningful experience.
You can chat with Pujan once you reserve your spot.
Trip Itinerary
1
Kathmandu
Day 1-2
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m) Activities: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, welcome by our representative, transfer to hotel in Thamel. Pre-trek briefing and gear check. Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Thamel Meals: Not included Optional: Short evening walk around Thamel or visit Garden of Dreams
2
Num
Day 2-3
Day 2: Fly to Tumlingtar (518m), Drive to Num (1,560m) Morning: Scenic 45-minute flight to Tumlingtar Afternoon: Jeep drive (~4–5 hrs) through Khandbari to Num, crossing hillside terraces and remote villages. Highlights: First views of Arun River valley, overnight in a peaceful hillside village. Accommodation: Teahouse in Num Meals: BLD
3
Makalu Rural Municipality, Sankhuwasabha
Day 3-4
Day 3: Trek from Num to Seduwa (1,540m) Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs | Distance: ~8 km Trail: Steep descent to the Arun River, cross suspension bridge, then ascend steep switchbacks through tropical forest. Highlights: Arun River crossing, entry into Makalu-Barun National Park (permit checkpoint). Accommodation: Teahouse in Seduwa Meals: BLD
4
Makalu
Day 4-5
Day 4: Trek Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,070m) Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~7 km Trail: Gradual climb through terraced fields, local Rai and Sherpa villages Highlights: Farm life, traditional houses, monasteries Accommodation: Teahouse Meals: BLD
5
Khongma Danda
Day 5-6
Day 5: Trek Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3,560m) Trek Time: 6–7 hrs | Distance: ~6 km Trail: Steep uphill through rhododendron and oak forest, stone staircases Highlights: Viewpoints with panoramic landscapes Accommodation: Basic lodge or teahouse Meals: BLD
6
Khongma Danda
Day 6-7
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Khongma Danda Activity: Short hike to viewpoint ridge (~3,800m) for better acclimatization Highlight: Sunrise views of Kanchenjunga & Makalu region Accommodation: Teahouse
7
Makalu Barun National Park
Day 7-8
Day 7: Trek Khongma Danda to Dobato (3,650m) via Shipton La (4,216m) Trek Time: 6–7 hrs | Distance: ~10 km Trail: Series of passes: Khongma La, Ghungru La, Shipton La, and Keke La Highlights: High mountain lakes, views of Peak 6 & 7, wild alpine terrain Accommodation: Teahouse
8
Langmale लाङ्माले
Day 8-9
Day 8: Trek Dobato to Yangri Kharka (3,557m) Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~9 km Trail: Descend through rhododendron forest, cross wooden bridges Highlights: First views of the Barun Valley and surrounding cliffs Accommodation: Teahouse Meals: BLD
9
Langmale लाङ्माले
Day 9-10
Day 9: Trek Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka (4,410m) Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~10 km Trail: Gradual climb through yak pastures and glacial moraines Highlights: Incredible views of Pyramid Peak, Peak 4, and Chamlang Accommodation: Teahouse Meals: BLD
10
Makalu Base Camp ( Barun Valley )
Day 10-11
Day 10: Trek Langmale to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m) Trek Time: 5–6 hrs | Distance: ~8 km Trail: High altitude walk on rocky terrain along Barun Glacier Highlights: Close-up views of Mt. Makalu (8,485m), Baruntse & Lhotse Accommodation: Basic teahouse or camp-style lodge Meals: BLD
11
Makalu Base Camp ( Barun Valley )
Day 11-12
Day 11: Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp (Optional Hike to 5,200m) Activity: Rest day or short hike to higher viewpoints Highlights: Incredible photo ops of Makalu’s south face and glaciers Accommodation: Teahouse Meals: BLD
12
Langmale लाङ्माले
Day 12-13
Day 12: Trek from Makalu Base Camp (4,870m) to Yangri Kharka (3,557m) Trek Duration: 6–7 hours Distance: ~14 km Descent: Approx. 1,300m Trail: Descend gradually through moraines and yak pastures, retracing your steps through Shershong, Langmale, and Merek. The trail is rocky and exposed at first, then transitions into alpine grasslands and juniper forest. Activities: Early morning sunrise views over Mt. Makalu Peaceful descent into the Barun River valley Visit seasonal herder camps Accommodation: Teahouse in Yangri Kharka Meals: BLD
13
Makalu Barun National Park
Day 13-14
Day 13: Trek from Yangri Kharka to Dobato (3,650m) Trek Duration: 6–7 hours Distance: ~10 km Ascent/Descent: Slight uphill and downhill mix Trail: Begin through pine and rhododendron forest, then ascend to the open ridges approaching Dobato. Trail passes through a few landslide-prone areas — caution required. Activities: River crossings via wooden bridges Stop at temporary tea shops for local snacks Sunset views over the ridges near Dobato Accommodation: Basic teahouse Meals: BLD
14
Khongma Danda
Day 14-15
Day 14: Trek from Dobato to Khongma Danda (3,560m) Trek Duration: 5–6 hours Distance: ~9 km Ascent: Moderate uphill over passes Trail: Cross high passes again: Keke La, Shipton La, and descend through rhododendron forests back to Khongma Danda. Activities: Cross sacred lakes and prayer flag-covered passes Rest stops with excellent views of Chamlang and surrounding peaks Visit temporary yak shelters if they’re open Accommodation: Lodge in Khongma Danda Meals: BLD
15
Seduwa
Day 15-16
Day 15: Trek from Khongma Danda to Tashigaon (2,070m) Trek Duration: 5–6 hours Distance: ~8 km Descent: Over 1,400m Trail: Long and steady descent through dense rhododendron and fir forest Activities: Birdwatching in the forested sections Return to Tashigaon village — opportunity to meet local families again Accommodation: Teahouse in Tashigaon Meals: BLD
16
Num
Day 16-17
Day 16: Trek from Tashigaon to Num (1,560m) Trek Duration: 6 hours Distance: ~9 km Ascent/Descent: Short ascent, then steep descent to Arun River and final climb to Num Activities: Final river crossing Celebrate with the team at the lodge in Num Accommodation: Teahouse in Num Meals: BLD
17
Kathmandu
Day 17-18
Day 17: Drive to Tumlingtar (518m) & Fly to Kathmandu Drive Duration: 4–5 hours by jeep Flight: 30–45 minutes Activities: Scenic drive back through Khandbari Afternoon/evening flight to Kathmandu (weather dependent) Transfer to hotel and farewell dinner Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
18
Kathmandu
Day 18
Day 18: Free Day or Departure Activities: Depending on flight time, optional half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu (Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Durbar Square) Final shopping or relaxation in Thamel Airport drop-off for international departure Meals: Breakfast
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Hotel & Other
18 days trip
Kathmandu, Num & 16 more
Transportation
Other
What's excluded?
Nepal visa fee and international flights
Personal travel insurance
Personal expenses and any kinds of drink
Porter services
Hot showers and charging fees in trek
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