Makalu Base Camp Trek – 16 Days

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the longest but most rewarding treks in the Makalu Arun Valley region of Nepal. Mount Makalu (8,463 m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world, is one of the main attractions of the route.

The itinerary begins with a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar Airport, followed by a 15-minute, 13 km jeep ride to Khandbari, where you will spend one night in a pre-booked hotel room.

The next day, you will take a pre-booked jeep for a 4-hour journey from Num to Chamla Kharka. There, you will leave your jeep and start your real Makalu Trek.

The trekking route from Chamla Kharka passes through the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area, leading to Shipton La (4,210 m) before descending into the Barun Valley to Yangle Kharka. After a day of acclimatization in Yangle Kharka, you will head to Makalu Base Camp, your hiking destination.

After a day exploring the surroundings of Makalu Base Camp, you will follow the same route back to Chamla Kharka, where you will catch your pre-booked jeep and travel back to Khandbari and then to Tumlingtar.

Nowadays, as teahouses with limited facilities are available up to Makalu Base Camp, you can enjoy a light teahouse trek at your own pace with the help of a local porter guide.

Best Time to Trek Makalu Base Camp

The best times to trek to Makalu Base Camp are indeed during the spring and autumn seasons, which offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions. Here’s a detailed look at these optimal periods:

Spring (March to June)

• Weather: Spring brings mild temperatures, clearer skies, and blooming flowers. This season provides excellent visibility and a vibrant landscape, enhancing the trekking experience.
• Trails: The trails are generally in good condition with minimal risk of heavy snowfall or landslides. This is ideal for trekking and ensures a more pleasant experience.
• Crowds: The trails are relatively less crowded compared to the peak summer trekking season, offering a more serene experience.

Autumn (September to November)

• Weather: Autumn offers stable weather, clear skies, and mild temperatures, which are perfect for trekking. The crisp air and clear views make for stunning panoramic vistas of the Himalayas.
• Trails: The trails are usually well-maintained and less likely to be obstructed by weather-related issues. This is a great time to avoid the monsoon’s lingering effects and enjoy stable trekking conditions.
• Crowds: Similar to spring, autumn sees fewer trekkers compared to the peak season, providing a more peaceful journey through the Himalayas.

Times to Avoid

• Early March: Heavy snowfall can make the trails, especially around Makalu Base Camp and Jak Kharka, challenging and less safe.
• Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon can bring heavy rains and increased risk of landslides, making trekking conditions difficult and less enjoyable.

Overall, both spring and autumn are excellent choices for trekking to Makalu Base Camp, with spring offering the charm of blooming flora and autumn providing breathtaking clear skies and fewer trekkers.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Flight to Tumlingtar and Jeep Ride to Num Village
Day 2: Trek to Sedua
Day 3: Trek to Tashigaon
Day 4: Trek to Khongma Danda
Day 5: Trek to Dobate via Shipton La Pass
Day 6: Trek to Yangle Kharka
Day 7: Trek to Langmale Kharka
Day 8: Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Day 9: Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp
Day 10: Return to Yangle Kharka
Day 11: Trek to Dobate
Day 12: Trek to Khongma Danda
Day 13: Trek to Tashigaon
Day 14: Trek to Num Village
Day 15: Jeep Ride to Tumlingtar
Day 16: Flight to Kathmandu