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Makalu Base Camp Trek

Close up views of incredible Makalu - See Everest and Kangchenjunga - A lesser trekked area

All Trek Meals Included

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Duration

20 Days
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Grade

Challenging
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Max Altitude

5300m
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Walking Days

16 Days
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Accommodation

3 Nts Hotels - 16 Nts Trekking Lodges
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Trip Overview

Wild trekking to one of the world’s highest and most spectacular peaks

At 8416m high, Makalu is the world’s fifth-highest mountain and one of the most imposing and spectacular. Indeed, the day when you walk to Makalu Base Camp itself must surely be one of the most incredible trekking days anywhere in the world. The trek to mighty Makalu is often regarded as one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets. Very tough trekking and the fact that it’s not as easily accessible as the likes of the Annapurna and Everest regions meant that very few trekkers followed in the footsteps of renowned explorer Eric Shipton and explored the magnificent Makalu Barun National Park. Until recently, the trek to Makalu Base Camp was essentially wild camping, expedition style. Nowadays, it is possible to undertake the Makalu Base Camp trek and overnight in trekking lodges (teahouses), although these are much simpler affairs than those found in the more popular trekking regions of Nepal. A very good level of fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience are essential. On one day alone, there are the Shipton La and three other high passes to navigate. But efforts are rewarded on this rather varied, linear trek from circa 700m to over 5000m and back again with magnificent mountain scenery, as well as authentic hill villages along the way to enjoy before heading higher into a wild and high mountain wilderness. Reaching a view point above Makalu Base Camp, there are outlandish views of major peaks from Baruntse (7129m) to Chamlang (7319m) and beyond to Lhotse (8516m) and the highest of all, Everest at 8848m. But the real star of the show is Makalu, which completely demands your attention with its brutish yet commanding presence. Even the journey to the trailhead can be quite a challenge, but it adds to the sense that this is real, adventurous Himalayan trekking. Autumn and late Spring are usually the optimum periods to attempt this challenging trek, as during the winter months a high risk of heavy snow means the high passes may not be crossable and also the fact that the teahouses may not be operational. Don’t forget that our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and although the rate of altitude gains is reasonable, you may wish to consider adding acclimatisation days, rest days, and even contingency days. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely 'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required for nights spent in trekking lodges. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.

Wild trekking to one of the world’s highest and most spectacular peaks

  • At 8416m high, Makalu is the world’s fifth-highest mountain and one of the most imposing and spectacular. Indeed, the day when you walk to Makalu Base Camp itself must surely be one of the most incredible trekking days anywhere in the world. The trek to mighty Makalu is often regarded as one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets. Very tough trekking and the fact that it’s not as easily accessible as the likes of the Annapurna and Everest regions meant that very few trekkers followed in the footsteps of renowned explorer Eric Shipton and explored the magnificent Makalu Barun National Park. Until recently, the trek to Makalu Base Camp was essentially wild camping, expedition style. Nowadays, it is possible to undertake the Makalu Base Camp trek and overnight in trekking lodges (teahouses), although these are much simpler affairs than those found in the more popular trekking regions of Nepal. A very good level of fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience are essential. On one day alone, there are the Shipton La and three other high passes to navigate. But efforts are rewarded on this rather varied, linear trek from circa 700m to over 5000m and back again with magnificent mountain scenery, as well as authentic hill villages along the way to enjoy before heading higher into a wild and high mountain wilderness. Reaching a view point above Makalu Base Camp, there are outlandish views of major peaks from Baruntse (7129m) to Chamlang (7319m) and beyond to Lhotse (8516m) and the highest of all, Everest at 8848m. But the real star of the show is Makalu, which completely demands your attention with its brutish yet commanding presence. Even the journey to the trailhead can be quite a challenge, but it adds to the sense that this is real, adventurous Himalayan trekking. Autumn and late Spring are usually the optimum periods to attempt this challenging trek, as during the winter months a high risk of heavy snow means the high passes may not be crossable and also the fact that the teahouses may not be operational. Don’t forget that our trekking holidays are tailor-made, and although the rate of altitude gains is reasonable, you may wish to consider adding acclimatisation days, rest days, and even contingency days. The itinerary is merely a suggested itinerary and is not entirely 'set in stone'. Sleeping bags (4-season) will be required for nights spent in trekking lodges. We can arrange sleeping bag rentals if required.

Example Itinerary

    • Day 1
      Arrive Kathmandu
    • Day 2
      Fly and drive to Num
    • Day 3
      Trek to Seduwa
    • Day 4
      Up and down to Tashigaon
    • Day 5
      Big ascents to Khongma Danda
    • Day 6
      Acclimatisation Day
    • Day 7
      Four Passes to Dobate
    • Day 8
      Trek to Yangri Kharka
    • Day 9
      Trek to Langmale Kharka
    • Day 10
      Acclimatisation Day
    • Day 11
      To Makalu Base Camp
    • Day 12
      Explore Makalu Base Camp
    • Day 13
      Back to Yangri Kharka
    • Day 14
      Trek to Dobate
    • Day 15
      Back to Khongma Danda
    • Day 16
      Return to Tashigaon
    • Day 17
      To Seduwa
    • Day 18
      Back to Num and drive to Khandbari
    • Day 19
      Return to Kathmandu
    • Day 20
      Depart Nepal
  • DAY
    1

    Arrive Kathmandu

    Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere. Please note that a special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on Nepali Public holidays. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    
Included Meals: None

    DAY 1

    Arrive Kathmandu

    Arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be met and receive a private transfer for the short distance into central Kathmandu and to the "KGH" Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. You'll be given a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening, you can take dinner at your leisure in one of the many choices of cafes and restaurants in Kathmandu, although the open-air courtyard cafe of the KGH Hotel is as good as anywhere. Please note that a special permit is required for this trek. In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office. The permit office is open Sunday-Thursday, Friday Mornings, and all day Saturday. The permit office is also closed on Nepali Public holidays. Please anticipate that you may require extra days in Kathmandu as a result so that we can obtain your permit.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    
Included Meals: None

    DAY
    2

    Fly and drive to Num

    Following a private transfer to Kathmandu Airport, you’ll take the short flight to Tumlingtar. From here, things start to get interesting,” as the (usual) 3.5-hour drive to Num in a 4WD vehicle can be quite the adventure in itself. The road can often be in poor condition, particularly beyond Chicula, and if it has rained, then the resultant muddy conditions can cause vehicles to get stuck, and before you know it, you’re in a “Top Gear Road Adventure” and in need of a few locals to assist, whether it’s the vehicle you’re travelling in or one ahead of you. Still, you get the sense on the journey that you’re already in and heading further into a lesser-visited part of the Nepal Himalaya. Your overnight halt is the hilltop village of Num at approx. 1560m.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Num
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Find out more about Trekking Lodges 

    DAY 2

    Fly and drive to Num

    Following a private transfer to Kathmandu Airport, you’ll take the short flight to Tumlingtar. From here, things start to get interesting,” as the (usual) 3.5-hour drive to Num in a 4WD vehicle can be quite the adventure in itself. The road can often be in poor condition, particularly beyond Chicula, and if it has rained, then the resultant muddy conditions can cause vehicles to get stuck, and before you know it, you’re in a “Top Gear Road Adventure” and in need of a few locals to assist, whether it’s the vehicle you’re travelling in or one ahead of you. Still, you get the sense on the journey that you’re already in and heading further into a lesser-visited part of the Nepal Himalaya. Your overnight halt is the hilltop village of Num at approx. 1560m.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Num
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Find out more about Trekking Lodges 

    DAY
    3

    Trek to Seduwa

    The trek to Makalu Base Camp begins with a steep descent down a stone-stepped trail through cardamom plantations to the Arun River. It’s worthy of note that the further you trek from the roadhead, the more basic the lodges and guesthouses become. Whilst we always try to get private rooms for our clients, due to the unique nature in which these lodges operate and the fact that they are small and few and far between, it is sometimes necessary to use small dorm rooms shared with other trekkers too. Once you’ve reached the river, you have to cross it by means of a suspension bridge, and the remainder of today’s trek is a rather stiff climb up to Saduwa, which is at about the same height as you started the day and is the hill you could see from Num on the other side of the river valley. Walking time: approx. 6 hours with around 810 m of ascent and descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Seduwa
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 3

    Trek to Seduwa

    The trek to Makalu Base Camp begins with a steep descent down a stone-stepped trail through cardamom plantations to the Arun River. It’s worthy of note that the further you trek from the roadhead, the more basic the lodges and guesthouses become. Whilst we always try to get private rooms for our clients, due to the unique nature in which these lodges operate and the fact that they are small and few and far between, it is sometimes necessary to use small dorm rooms shared with other trekkers too. Once you’ve reached the river, you have to cross it by means of a suspension bridge, and the remainder of today’s trek is a rather stiff climb up to Saduwa, which is at about the same height as you started the day and is the hill you could see from Num on the other side of the river valley. Walking time: approx. 6 hours with around 810 m of ascent and descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Seduwa
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    4

    Up and down to Tashigaon

    Overall, you’re gaining height today, and it’s very pleasant walking through forests of rhododendron and pine, where many colourful birds can be spotted. An initial ascent up a slabbed path passes by several farmsteads as well as prayer (Mani) walls. Villages such as Murmidanda and Narbugaon make for handy refreshment halts along the way. You’ll see your overnight location of Tashigaon, and although it doesn’t look too far away on the hill above, it’s farther than you think. Expect to cross a few streams today, and the log bridges will test your balancing skills. Climbing up to Tashigaon, you’ll need to ascend a bit further to reach the handful of lodges here at around 2100m. Walking time: approx. 6 hours with about 695 m of ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Tashigaon
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 4

    Up and down to Tashigaon

    Overall, you’re gaining height today, and it’s very pleasant walking through forests of rhododendron and pine, where many colourful birds can be spotted. An initial ascent up a slabbed path passes by several farmsteads as well as prayer (Mani) walls. Villages such as Murmidanda and Narbugaon make for handy refreshment halts along the way. You’ll see your overnight location of Tashigaon, and although it doesn’t look too far away on the hill above, it’s farther than you think. Expect to cross a few streams today, and the log bridges will test your balancing skills. Climbing up to Tashigaon, you’ll need to ascend a bit further to reach the handful of lodges here at around 2100m. Walking time: approx. 6 hours with about 695 m of ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Tashigaon
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    5

    Big ascents to Khongma Danda

    There’s around 1500m of ascent today, and as you’ll be trekking up to and over 3000m for the first time on your trek to Makalu Base Camp, the effects of altitude may be noticeable. A stone-stepped trail climbs sharply at times out of Tashigaon, but with the snowy peaks of the distant Himalayas coming into view, the hiking up through magnolia and rhododendron forest is very atmospheric. Other than a refreshment and lunch stop opportunity at Dhare Kharka, there’s little in the way of settlements on today's walk. From Dhare Kharka, it’s a pretty tough ascent to a minor pass at Unisha (3200m), but there’s still more climbing to do to get up to Khongma Danda (3560m). Late snowfall can make sections of today tricky in places. It’s a longer walking day of around 7 hours with a punishing 1500m ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Khongma Danda
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 5

    Big ascents to Khongma Danda

    There’s around 1500m of ascent today, and as you’ll be trekking up to and over 3000m for the first time on your trek to Makalu Base Camp, the effects of altitude may be noticeable. A stone-stepped trail climbs sharply at times out of Tashigaon, but with the snowy peaks of the distant Himalayas coming into view, the hiking up through magnolia and rhododendron forest is very atmospheric. Other than a refreshment and lunch stop opportunity at Dhare Kharka, there’s little in the way of settlements on today's walk. From Dhare Kharka, it’s a pretty tough ascent to a minor pass at Unisha (3200m), but there’s still more climbing to do to get up to Khongma Danda (3560m). Late snowfall can make sections of today tricky in places. It’s a longer walking day of around 7 hours with a punishing 1500m ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Khongma Danda
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    6

    Acclimatisation Day

    At just over 3500 m, it’s absolutely essential to have an acclimatisation day. To aid the acclimatisation process, the “climb high, sleep low” principle really helps. So, one way to achieve this is to take a walk up to Khongma La (3890m). Although this will be the first of four passes that you must cross tomorrow, it is the best option from Khongma Danda to be able to gain height and descend once again.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Khongma Danda


    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 6

    Acclimatisation Day

    At just over 3500 m, it’s absolutely essential to have an acclimatisation day. To aid the acclimatisation process, the “climb high, sleep low” principle really helps. So, one way to achieve this is to take a walk up to Khongma La (3890m). Although this will be the first of four passes that you must cross tomorrow, it is the best option from Khongma Danda to be able to gain height and descend once again.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Khongma Danda


    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    7

    Four Passes to Dobate

    There are no two ways about it: this is a really challenging trekking day. You’re also pretty much leaving permanent habitation of note behind as you head deeper into the Makalu Barun region. But there are views of Makalu and over to the east of Kangchenjunga to look forward to. Anyway, if you did the short walk to the Khongma La, you’re ready for the first pass, and now you know it’s a stiff climb of about an hour to gain the pass. A little bit of descent, and then you climb once again up to Sano Pokhari Danda (4105m), which takes around an hour or so. Below is the small lake of Sano Pokhari. Next up is the Tutu La (4125m), but this pass is better known as the Shipton La, and the ascent up to here is very steep. From the Shipton La, you drop down around 100m to another, larger lake (Kalo Pokhari) before having to ascend once more to the Keke La (4170m), but at least this pass is a bit less challenging. At last, there is now a nice descent of less than an hour to Dobate (3860m), which is really nothing more than a place where there’s a lodge and the end of a real rollercoaster day in the Himalayas. Walking time is approx. 8 hours with around 850 m of ascent and 600 m of descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Dobate
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 7

    Four Passes to Dobate

    There are no two ways about it: this is a really challenging trekking day. You’re also pretty much leaving permanent habitation of note behind as you head deeper into the Makalu Barun region. But there are views of Makalu and over to the east of Kangchenjunga to look forward to. Anyway, if you did the short walk to the Khongma La, you’re ready for the first pass, and now you know it’s a stiff climb of about an hour to gain the pass. A little bit of descent, and then you climb once again up to Sano Pokhari Danda (4105m), which takes around an hour or so. Below is the small lake of Sano Pokhari. Next up is the Tutu La (4125m), but this pass is better known as the Shipton La, and the ascent up to here is very steep. From the Shipton La, you drop down around 100m to another, larger lake (Kalo Pokhari) before having to ascend once more to the Keke La (4170m), but at least this pass is a bit less challenging. At last, there is now a nice descent of less than an hour to Dobate (3860m), which is really nothing more than a place where there’s a lodge and the end of a real rollercoaster day in the Himalayas. Walking time is approx. 8 hours with around 850 m of ascent and 600 m of descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Dobate
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    8

    Trek to Yangri Kharka

    Kharka is essentially the name given to a seasonal yak grazing area, and you’ll pass a few kharka’s over the course of the next couple of days. Today is much less brutal, with a bit more in the way of descent, although there is ascent too. Below you is the Barun Nadi River, and it is down to the river you’re heading. The trail down to the river through forests is quite steep. This area is prone to landslides, so the trail route may differ. But, generally, after crossing the river by means of a bridge, you’re heading steadily upstream. Tantalising glimpses of Chamlang (7319m) may distract you as you go. A sense of wildness and remoteness should be becoming more apparent here at Yangri Kharka (3630m). Walking time approx. 6hrs with around 610m descent and 425m ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Yangri Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 8

    Trek to Yangri Kharka

    Kharka is essentially the name given to a seasonal yak grazing area, and you’ll pass a few kharka’s over the course of the next couple of days. Today is much less brutal, with a bit more in the way of descent, although there is ascent too. Below you is the Barun Nadi River, and it is down to the river you’re heading. The trail down to the river through forests is quite steep. This area is prone to landslides, so the trail route may differ. But, generally, after crossing the river by means of a bridge, you’re heading steadily upstream. Tantalising glimpses of Chamlang (7319m) may distract you as you go. A sense of wildness and remoteness should be becoming more apparent here at Yangri Kharka (3630m). Walking time approx. 6hrs with around 610m descent and 425m ascent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Yangri Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    9

    Trek to Langmale Kharka

    Another day, another Kharka! Things also start to get really spectacular as,  after a slight descent to the Barun Nadi, you follow the course of the river upstream. On view and towering above you are, among others, the likes of Yaupa (6422m) and the imaginatively named Peak 5 (6432m). Along the way, you’ll pass by Jhak and Yak Kharka’s and Merek's too, where you might be able to get a cuppa. From here, it’s then less than three hours to the outlandishly located lodge at Langmale Kharka (4420m). Walking time is around 6 hours, and it’s mostly ascent today (approx. 475 m), with minimal descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Langmale Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 9

    Trek to Langmale Kharka

    Another day, another Kharka! Things also start to get really spectacular as,  after a slight descent to the Barun Nadi, you follow the course of the river upstream. On view and towering above you are, among others, the likes of Yaupa (6422m) and the imaginatively named Peak 5 (6432m). Along the way, you’ll pass by Jhak and Yak Kharka’s and Merek's too, where you might be able to get a cuppa. From here, it’s then less than three hours to the outlandishly located lodge at Langmale Kharka (4420m). Walking time is around 6 hours, and it’s mostly ascent today (approx. 475 m), with minimal descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Langmale Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    10

    Acclimatisation Day

    Another essential acclimatisation day before proceeding higher to spend two nights up at 4800m Makalu Base Camp. There are a couple of options for doing some short walks to gain elevation and descend again, including a rather fine view point. But, even if you feel like doing nothing and resting up, then that’s OK and you do have a rather magnificent close up mountain backdrop to savour at Langmale Kharka.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Langmale Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 10

    Acclimatisation Day

    Another essential acclimatisation day before proceeding higher to spend two nights up at 4800m Makalu Base Camp. There are a couple of options for doing some short walks to gain elevation and descend again, including a rather fine view point. But, even if you feel like doing nothing and resting up, then that’s OK and you do have a rather magnificent close up mountain backdrop to savour at Langmale Kharka.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Langmale Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    11

    To Makalu Base Camp

    You could be forgiven for wondering if Makalu Base Camp actually exists at all. Even the mighty Makalu itself appears to have disappeared. Base Camp itself doesn’t come into view until almost the last moments of today’s trek. Not surprisingly, it’s mostly ascent today, although much of it is fairly gradual. But, at this altitude even gradual climbing is hard work and the odd much steeper sections will certainly make you wonder if your legs aren’t working anymore. It’s mostly decent conditions underfoot, but some boulder sections need more careful negotiation. But, after much huffing and puffing the formidable giant of Makalu is revealed in all its magnificence and completely dominates the view. Welcome to Makalu Base Camp (4800m). Walking time is around 5-6hrs and approx. 480m of ascent and just the odd bit of descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Makalu Base Camp
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 11

    To Makalu Base Camp

    You could be forgiven for wondering if Makalu Base Camp actually exists at all. Even the mighty Makalu itself appears to have disappeared. Base Camp itself doesn’t come into view until almost the last moments of today’s trek. Not surprisingly, it’s mostly ascent today, although much of it is fairly gradual. But, at this altitude even gradual climbing is hard work and the odd much steeper sections will certainly make you wonder if your legs aren’t working anymore. It’s mostly decent conditions underfoot, but some boulder sections need more careful negotiation. But, after much huffing and puffing the formidable giant of Makalu is revealed in all its magnificence and completely dominates the view. Welcome to Makalu Base Camp (4800m). Walking time is around 5-6hrs and approx. 480m of ascent and just the odd bit of descent.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Makalu Base Camp
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    12

    Explore Makalu Base Camp

    This is very much an “as you wish” combined with “how you’re feeling” day. Nothing is easy at this altitude. A less challenging option would be to head beyond Barun Pokhari Lake by Base Camp on a trail that ultimately goes via the Sherpani Col and Amphu Labsta into the Everest region. OK, you’re not going anywhere near these remote and challenging passes, but the trail does take you even closer to Makalu, and there are a couple of glittering glacial lakes to see before turning around. There’s also a small, prayer-flagged hill above Base Camp that can be reached in under an hour. But if you’re feeling good and strong, then there is a climb up to a 5300-metre ridge above Base Camp that affords the most stupendous views. Of course, there are close-up views of Makalu, but Everest and Lhotse can also be seen (among many other impressive peaks) up here too. It’s a real toughie, though, with steep ups and steep downs, which at these high altitudes will make the 5-hour round trip feel longer.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Makalu Base Camp
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 12

    Explore Makalu Base Camp

    This is very much an “as you wish” combined with “how you’re feeling” day. Nothing is easy at this altitude. A less challenging option would be to head beyond Barun Pokhari Lake by Base Camp on a trail that ultimately goes via the Sherpani Col and Amphu Labsta into the Everest region. OK, you’re not going anywhere near these remote and challenging passes, but the trail does take you even closer to Makalu, and there are a couple of glittering glacial lakes to see before turning around. There’s also a small, prayer-flagged hill above Base Camp that can be reached in under an hour. But if you’re feeling good and strong, then there is a climb up to a 5300-metre ridge above Base Camp that affords the most stupendous views. Of course, there are close-up views of Makalu, but Everest and Lhotse can also be seen (among many other impressive peaks) up here too. It’s a real toughie, though, with steep ups and steep downs, which at these high altitudes will make the 5-hour round trip feel longer.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Makalu Base Camp
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    13

    Back to Yangri Kharka

    We’re really sorry, but it’s time to turn around and leave this home of the mountain gods. As this is a linear trek, the way back is the way you came. Today you’ll retrace your footsteps as far as Yangri Kharka. It’s mostly ascent, around 1220m of it! Walking time is approximately 7 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Yangri Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 13

    Back to Yangri Kharka

    We’re really sorry, but it’s time to turn around and leave this home of the mountain gods. As this is a linear trek, the way back is the way you came. Today you’ll retrace your footsteps as far as Yangri Kharka. It’s mostly ascent, around 1220m of it! Walking time is approximately 7 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Yangri Kharka
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    14

    Trek to Dobate

    Although you’re on the return, today is still a very pleasant walking day as you head back to Dobate. Around 650 m of ascent and 415 m of descent. Walking time: approx. 6 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Dobate

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 14

    Trek to Dobate

    Although you’re on the return, today is still a very pleasant walking day as you head back to Dobate. Around 650 m of ascent and 415 m of descent. Walking time: approx. 6 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Dobate

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    15

    Back to Khongma Danda

    It’s those four passes again, this time in reverse order, as you walk to Khongma Danda. But enjoy it, as it will be the final day of trekking where the high peaks will be in view. Walking time is approximately 6-7 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Khongma Danda
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 15

    Back to Khongma Danda

    It’s those four passes again, this time in reverse order, as you walk to Khongma Danda. But enjoy it, as it will be the final day of trekking where the high peaks will be in view. Walking time is approximately 6-7 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Khongma Danda
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    16

    Return to Tashigaon

    At least today is mostly descent as you head back to Tashigaon. approx. 1500 m of descent and just a small amount of ascent. Walking time is approximately 5–6 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Tashigaon
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 16

    Return to Tashigaon

    At least today is mostly descent as you head back to Tashigaon. approx. 1500 m of descent and just a small amount of ascent. Walking time is approximately 5–6 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge - Tashigaon
    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    17

    To Seduwa

    A pleasant walk back to Seduwa with around 150m ascent and 700m descent Walking time is approximately 4-5 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Seduwa
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 17

    To Seduwa

    A pleasant walk back to Seduwa with around 150m ascent and 700m descent Walking time is approximately 4-5 hours.

    Accommodation: Trekking Lodge, Seduwa
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    18

    Back to Num and drive to Khandbari

    Down to the river, then all the way back up the opposite side of the valley to Num. From here you’ll then drive as far Khandbari

    Accommodation: Basic Hotel - Khandbari

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY 18

    Back to Num and drive to Khandbari

    Down to the river, then all the way back up the opposite side of the valley to Num. From here you’ll then drive as far Khandbari

    Accommodation: Basic Hotel - Khandbari

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    DAY
    19

    Return to Kathmandu

    After a drive to Tumlingtar, you take the short flight back to Kathmandu, where a private transfer will take you to your hotel.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    DAY 19

    Return to Kathmandu

    After a drive to Tumlingtar, you take the short flight back to Kathmandu, where a private transfer will take you to your hotel.

    Accommodation: KGH Hotel, Kathmandu
    
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    DAY
    20

    Depart Nepal

    A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.

    Included Meals: Breakfast

    Of course, there's no reason to depart today; your Nepal holiday can be readily tailor-made

    DAY 20

    Depart Nepal

    A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.

    Included Meals: Breakfast

    Of course, there's no reason to depart today; your Nepal holiday can be readily tailor-made

    IMPORTANT

    This is an EXAMPLE ITINERARY and can be customised for you accordingly.

    Please consider whether you want your customisable, private trip itinerary to also include CONTINGENCY.

    See our ABOUT CONTINGENCY Information

    Please CONTACT US to discuss CONTINGENCY and ADDITIONAL ACCLIMATISATION, as well as other CUSTOMISATION POSSIBILITES for your PRIVATE CUSTOM TREK

Price Guide

Price based on a private party of 4 persons, twin share rooms, low season.
  • $ US 2285 per person

IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT OUR PRICE GUIDES

Restricted Area Permit: A special permit is required for this trek. The current cost of $US 60 per person is NOT INCLUDED in the above price guide. Extra days on trek may increase the cost of the permit and we will advise you of the permit cost applicable to your customised itinerary and indicate this to you separately. The permit cost will be charged in addition to the custom trip cost on your final balance invoice.

What's included

The price shown is for guideline purposes only. The price is inclusive of all accommodation described in the detailed itinerary, all airport and land transfers, internal flights to and from Tumlingtar as indicated, private overland travel, meals as indicated in the itinerary (all meals on trek), porterage on trek, park fees, and a Snow Cat Travel Trekking Guide. All guides are English-speaking professionals and fully licenced.

Restricted Area Permit: In order for us to obtain permits for you, we have to present hard copies of your passport (scans are not accepted, so we are unable to arrange Restricted Area Permits in advance) by 1000 hrs. to the permit issuing office in Kathmandu. Restricted area permits are issued for a minimum of two people only. However, a permit for a solo traveller can be obtained, provided the minimum two-person total cost is paid

Don't Forget

We can customise
all our trips.

extend. shorten. upgrade

Don't Forget

We can customise
all our trips to Nepal.

extend. shorten. upgrade

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Read our Nepal Travel Guide

Nepal is home to a beautiful and varied landscape, a wealth of cultural sights, and a diverse people. Here’s everything you need to know, from the capital of Nepal to visa rules.
Nepal Travel Guide
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01405 862917

Outside UK

+44 1405 862917

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Snow Cat Travel is the brand name of and trading as Rural Heritage Journeys PVT LTD of Nepal with a Head Office in Kathmandu. Our parent company Rural Heritage Nepal owns and operates select boutique, heritage hotels in Nepal such as the Famous Farm at Nuwakot and the Old Inn at Bandipur.
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