Kathmandu, Nepal
Private Tour
Trekkers embarking on the 21-day Makalu Base Camp Trek can expect a remarkable journey that takes them through diverse landscapes, vibrant local cultures, and breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the world. As they traverse lush valleys, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrain, adventurers will have the opportunity to acclimatize properly while discovering the unique flora and fauna of the region. The trek also includes cultural encounters with the hospitable Sherpa and Rai communities, steeped in rich traditions and customs, ensuring a holistic and immersive experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Welcome to Nepal!
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our dedicated staff will be on hand to assist you. We provide reliable and comfortable airport transfer services to ensure a seamless journey from the airport to your hotel. Regardless of whether you arrive in the morning, afternoon, or late at night, we will be there to greet you.
For your convenience, we can also arrange for a local mobile SIM card and currency exchange services right at the airport, making your transition to Nepal as smooth as possible.
The trek leader will meet with the group to provide details about the trek, with overnight accommodations arranged at a hotel.
After breakfast, we’ll head to Kathmandu’s domestic airport for a scenic 40-minute flight to Tumlingtar airstrip, located at 400 meters elevation. Upon arrival, we’ll embark on a bumpy four-hour jeep journey to Num, where we’ll meet our porters and team. We will spend the night at a designated camp.
After breakfast, we’ll begin our trek, descending through a forested area and terraced fields, with our campsite visible across the valley. We’ll cross the Arun River and face a steep ascent to Num, where the warmer temperature adds to the challenge. This area marks the boundary of Makalu Barun National Park. We’ll set up camp at the top of the village, completing about five hours of trekking for the day.
Today’s trek is relatively easier as we ascend the ridge bordered by the Isuwa Khola to the west and the Kasuwa Khola to the east. The trail leads us across the hillside and through various villages. After a steady ascent of about five hours, we will arrive at the lively village of Tashi Gaon, where we’ll set up camp for the night.
Today marks another important day as we trek uphill towards Khongma Danda, leaving behind the lush green forests for remote scrub and stunning rhododendron forests that adorn the lower mountains. This trek will take about six hours, and once we reach our destination, we’ll set up camp and spend the night there.
The altitude gain from Tashi Gaon to Khongma Danda is considerable, necessitating proper acclimatization before we cross the Sipton La Pass at 4,125 meters and the Ke Ke La Pass at 4,170 meters. After breakfast, we’ll hike to the Kauma La Hill viewpoint to take in the stunning panoramic views before returning to our camp at Khongma Danda for the night.
Today presents one of the more challenging segments of our trek as we undertake a steady uphill climb towards Shipton La Pass at 4,125 meters, where we’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Num in the backdrop. The trail then gently descends to Kalo Pokhari, meaning “Black Lake” in Nepali, before we proceed to the Ke Ke La Pass at 4,170 meters, enjoying fantastic vistas of the towering Chamlang Himal at 7,319 meters along the way. This trek will take around seven hours, after which we will set up camp and spend the night at Dobate.
We will descend through the beautiful rhododendron forest, leading us to the upper Barun River valley. This enjoyable walk includes a gradual ascent in altitude as we approach a charming small village situated in a meadow at the valley’s most scenic spot. The trek will take approximately six hours, after which we’ll set up camp and spend the night.
Our trek to Langmale Kharka, situated at an altitude of 4,410 meters, promises to be an exhilarating journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region. As we navigate the varying terrains, we will experience a diverse array of flora and fauna, culminating in breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The ascent to Langmale Kharka offers a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry of the area, making it a rewarding destination for both seasoned trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The day’s trek will be an essential step in our adventure, setting the stage for memorable experiences at this high-altitude campsite.
As we progress on our trek, the valley gradually unfolds, revealing stunning vistas. Just before a right turn, we are greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Makalu’s magnificent pyramid shape, complemented by the neighboring Chamlang Himal. We will continue our journey until we reach Makalu Base Camp, located at an elevation of 4,870 meters. This segment of the trek will take approximately five hours, after which we will establish our camp and spend the night under the stars, immersed in the tranquility and grandeur of this remarkable landscape.
We will dedicate a day to exploring the captivating surroundings of Makalu Base Camp, with the primary objective of ascending to Advance Base Camp. From the fringe of the icy slopes, we will be treated to spectacular views of Barun Valley, along with iconic peaks such as Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse. As an alternative, we have the option to venture towards the Swiss Base Camp and Barun Pokhari in the North Ridge area. After a fulfilling day of exploration, we will return to Makalu Base Camp for an overnight stay, allowing us to absorb the beauty and serenity of this extraordinary location.
After breakfast and one last chance for photos, we will begin our return trek down the valley towards Yangri Kharka. Our journey will lead us through Langmale Kharka and Shershong, allowing us to appreciate the beautiful landscapes we had previously encountered. The trek is anticipated to take around six hours, and upon arrival, we will set up camp and enjoy an overnight stay, reflecting on the incredible experiences of our adventure.
We will continue our descent along the well-trodden path we used on our ascent to Makalu Base Camp, guiding us back to Dobate. During late March and April, this trail transforms with the blooming rhododendron flowers, infusing the landscape with vibrant colors that contrast beautifully with the rock, snow, and ice of the surrounding mountains. This enchanting natural display will accompany us as we retrace our steps, making the journey back as memorable as the trek upwards.
Tomorrow presents another demanding day as we traverse the passes of Ke Ke La, Kalo Kalo Pokhari, and Shipton La enroute to Khongma Danda. If the weather is favorable, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga. The trek will take approximately six hours, concluding with an overnight stay at Khongma Danda.
After breakfast, we will begin a steep downhill trek that will lead us to the Sherpa village of Tashi Gaon. Having spent nearly two weeks in the majestic high mountain valleys, we will be returning to civilization. Our overnight stay will be at a picturesque campsite situated at the highest point of the village.
This will be an easy and short day. Following breakfast, we will retrace our steps back to Seduwa village, where we will enjoy an overnight stay at a campsite within the village.
On our final day of trekking, we will follow our previous footsteps down to the Arun River. After crossing the river, a steep uphill climb will take us back to the familiar village of Num, where we will have lunch. Following our meal, we will drive to Tumlingtar, where we will spend the night at a hotel.
We will conclude our journey with a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel, where we will spend the night at the Hotel Kathmandu.
Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu, ideal for shopping and relaxation. Take this chance to explore local markets and shops for unique souvenirs and gifts. In the evening, immerse yourself in Nepalese culture with a special dinner at a traditional restaurant. We will spend the night at the Hotel KTM, ensuring a comfortable and restful experience.
A representative from Ghale Treks will assist you by verifying your flight tickets and ensuring you are transferred to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure. We look forward to serving you again in the future and wish you a safe and pleasant journey.
Best Time to Trek
Physical Preparation
Permits and Documentation
Packing Essentials
Accommodation and Meals
Guides and Porters
Cultural Sensitivity
Health and Safety
Environmental Responsibility
Packing for a 21-day Makalu Base Camp Trek requires careful consideration to ensure you have everything you need while keeping your load manageable. Here’s a comprehensive packing list:
Clothing
Footwear
Gear
Personal Items
Documents and Money
Optional Items
Environmental Responsibility
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary journey that unveils the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, and our recent experience with Ghale Treks was nothing short of spectacular. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, ranging from lush valleys and terraced fields to high-altitude passes, all while offering stunning views of Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world. Each day presented a new adventure, characterized by the rich flora and fauna, as well as visits to traditional villages that showcase the vibrant local culture. Our knowledgeable guide from Ghale Treks not only ensured our safety and comfort but also enriched our understanding of the region’s history and ecology. The sense of tranquility found at Makalu Base Camp, surrounded by immense peaks and deep valleys, made for a truly transformative experience that we will cherish forever.
