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The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary journey through Nepal’s remote and pristine wilderness, offering stunning views of Mount Makalu, the fifth-highest peak in the world. This adventure is a must for trekkers seeking a less crowded yet highly rewarding experience. At Himalayan Adventure International Treks, we aim to make your trek safe, comfortable, and memorable. Here is a detailed guide to the costs and services we provide.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Cost: The total package cost for the Makalu Base Camp Trek depends on the level of service, group size, and customization. Our standard package starts from USD 2,200 per person for a 20-day trek, inclusive of transportation, permits, guide services, meals, and accommodations.
Group Join Trek Cost: Joining a group trek reduces costs significantly. For a group of 4 or more, the cost per person can drop to USD 1,600. This includes shared transportation and guide services.
Hiring a Guide: A professional, experienced guide is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trek. The cost of hiring a guide is USD 30 per day, which includes their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance.
Hiring a Female Guide: If you prefer a female guide, we can arrange one for the same rate of USD 30 per day. Female guides bring exceptional expertise and a unique perspective to the trek.
Hiring a Porter-Cum-Guide: A porter-cum-guide is a budget-friendly option, serving as both a guide and a porter. The cost is USD 25 per day, covering their salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
Hiring a Porter: For those needing additional assistance with luggage, hiring a porter costs USD 20 per day, inclusive of their food, accommodation, and insurance.
Kathmandu to Khandbari (Bus): The bus journey from Kathmandu to Khandbari costs approximately USD 25 per person. This scenic drive takes about 12-14 hours.
Tumlingtar to Num (Jeep): A shared jeep from Tumlingtar to Num costs USD 30 per person. If you prefer a private jeep, the cost will be USD 120, accommodating up to 6 people.
Food: On the trail, meals cost USD 6-8 per meal, depending on the location. Expect to spend around USD 20-25 per day on food.
Accommodation: Teahouse accommodations cost USD 5-8 per night in lower regions and USD 10-15 per night in higher altitudes due to logistical challenges.
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit: USD 30 per person
Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card: USD 10 per person for group trekkers and USD 20 per person for solo trekkers.
We provide high-quality rental equipment to ensure your comfort and safety:
Sleeping Bag: USD 2 per day
Down Jacket: USD 2 per day
Walking Poles: USD 1 per day
Mini Spikes: USD 1 per day
As part of our package, we offer:
Trekking map
Itinerary planning
Duffel bag for the trek
Information on Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and prevention tips
The ideal seasons for the Makalu Base Camp Trek are:
Spring (March to May): Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons make this season perfect for trekking.
Autumn (September to November): The post-monsoon season offers crisp views and stable weather.
The Makalu region is home to diverse ethnic communities, including Sherpas, Rai, and Limbu people. Trekking through this region provides an opportunity to experience their unique cultures, traditional lifestyles, and warm hospitality. You’ll also pass through ancient monasteries and mani walls, enriching your journey.
All required permits and documentation
Professional guide and porter services
Meals and accommodations during the trek
Emergency first aid kit
Complimentary trekking map, duffel bag, and AMS prevention guide
To Rent:
Sleeping bag, down jacket, walking poles, and mini spikes (available from us)
To Buy:
Trekking boots, thermal layers, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and other personal gear
With years of experience organizing treks in Nepal’s most remote regions, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction. Our team of knowledgeable guides and porters, transparent pricing, and personalized services ensure an unforgettable adventure.
Contact us today to book your Makalu Base Camp Trek and embark on a journey of a lifetime!
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an adventurous trekking route in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal, taking you to the base of Mount Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world at 8,485 meters. The trek offers diverse landscapes, including lush green valleys, high alpine meadows, and rugged terrain, with breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek typically takes about 20 to 22 days, including arrival and departure from Kathmandu. The actual trekking days are around 16 to 18, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization needs.
The best time to trek to Makalu Base Camp is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are moderate, making for the best trekking conditions.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its remote location, high altitudes, and rugged terrain. It requires good physical fitness, previous trekking experience, and mental preparation.
To trek to Makalu Base Camp, you need the Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits are required to access the protected areas and ensure safety during the trek.
While it is possible to trek independently, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed guide for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. The trail is remote and less traveled, and a guide can provide valuable assistance, ensure safety, and help with navigation.
Makalu Base Camp is located at an altitude of 4,870 meters (15,978 feet). The trek gradually ascends to this elevation, allowing time for acclimatization.
Preparation for the Makalu Base Camp Trek includes physical training such as cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking with a backpack. It's also important to gradually increase your altitude exposure before the trek and pack the necessary gear for varying weather conditions.
Accommodation on the Makalu Base Camp Trek consists mainly of teahouses and lodges. These provide basic facilities, including a bed, blanket, and meals. In more remote areas, the accommodations may be more rustic.
The teahouses along the Makalu Base Camp Trek offer a variety of local and international dishes, such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, soups, and bread. While options may be limited in remote areas, the food is generally nutritious and suitable for trekking.
The total distance covered in the Makalu Base Camp Trek is approximately 150-160 kilometers (93-100 miles), depending on the specific route taken.
Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the Makalu Base Camp Trek due to the high elevation. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and following a gradual ascent are crucial to minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.
Essential items to pack for the Makalu Base Camp Trek include a good quality trekking backpack, warm clothing (thermal layers, down jacket), sturdy trekking boots, sleeping bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, water purification tablets, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
Communication facilities, such as mobile network coverage and Wi-Fi, are limited on the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Some teahouses may offer satellite phones or internet services at an additional cost, but it's advisable to be prepared for limited connectivity.
The Makalu Barun National Park, where the trek takes place, is home to diverse wildlife, including red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan thar, and various bird species. While sightings are not guaranteed, the trek offers opportunities to spot these animals in their natural habitat.
The trek usually starts from Tumlingtar, which is accessible by a short domestic flight from Kathmandu. From Tumlingtar, you will travel by road to the starting point of the trek at Chichila or Num.
While solo trekking is possible, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is remote and challenging, so it is advisable to join a group or hire a guide and porter. Trekking with others enhances safety and provides companionship on the trail.
The cost of the Makalu Base Camp Trek varies depending on the services included, such as guide, porter, permits, and accommodation. On average, the cost ranges from USD 2,000 to 3,000 per person for a 20-22 day trek, including flights.
Risks include altitude sickness, harsh weather conditions, and the physical demands of the trek. Being well-prepared, following safety guidelines, and trekking with a reputable company can mitigate these risks.
The highlights include panoramic views of Mount Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks, the remote and pristine landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and the cultural experiences in the local Sherpa and Rai villages.
Yes, travel insurance is essential for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. The insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellations. Ensure your policy is comprehensive and suitable for the conditions of this trek.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and adventurous trekking experiences, offering unrivaled solitude, unspoiled natural beauty, and panoramic Himalayan vistas. Towering at an elevation of 4870 meters, Makalu Base Camp lies at the foot of the fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Makalu (8485m). This trek is perfect for those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path route filled with raw wilderness and cultural authenticity.
Operated professionally by Himalayan Adventure International Treks, this journey into the heart of the Makalu-Barun National Park guarantees a lifetime memory for trekkers from around the globe.
Makalu Base Camp is situated in the Sankhuwasabha district, located in eastern Nepal within the boundaries of the Makalu-Barun National Park, which borders the Everest region. Unlike the popular Everest or Annapurna trails, the Makalu Base Camp trek route offers peace and minimal traffic, with landscapes ranging from lush rhododendron forests to high alpine meadows and glaciers.
Understanding the Makalu Base Camp trek map is crucial before starting your journey. The trail begins from Num village, reached via a flight to Tumlingtar and a drive. The route passes through Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma Danda, Dobate, and Yangri Kharka before reaching Makalu Base Camp.
Tumlingtar (entry point)
Num
Seduwa
Tashigaon
Khongma Danda
Dobate
Yangri Kharka
Makalu Base Camp (4870m)
Check out our downloadable Makalu Base Camp trek map for a clear and detailed trail route.
The best time Makalu Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain views.
Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons and vibrant landscapes.
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, ideal visibility of Makalu and surrounding peaks.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold and challenging with snow, only for experienced trekkers.
Monsoon (June–Aug): Not recommended due to landslides and leeches.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek typically takes 18 to 22 days depending on acclimatization and itinerary variation. The total trekking distance is about 150 kilometers (93 miles) round trip.
Short on time? We also offer a Makalu Base Camp trek short itinerary of 14–16 days, combining drive/fly options and helicopter exit choices.
Here is our most popular Makalu Base Camp itinerary offered by Himalayan Adventure International Treks:
Arrival in Kathmandu
Fly to Tumlingtar (510m), Drive to Num (1,560m)
Trek to Seduwa (1,530m)
Trek to Tashigaon (2,060m)
Trek to Khongma Danda (3,500m)
Cross Shipton La Pass (4,200m) to Dobate (3,600m)
Trek to Yangri Kharka (3,557m)
Trek to Langmale Kharka (4,410m)
Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m)
Exploration Day at Base Camp
Return to Yangri Kharka
Trek to Dobate
Trek to Tashigaon
Trek to Num
Drive to Tumlingtar
Fly to Kathmandu
Departure or Cultural Day Tour
Departure
Customized Makalu Base Camp packages and helicopter return options available upon request.
For trekkers with limited time, we offer a Makalu Base Camp trek short itinerary including key highlights and a helicopter exit:
Day 1-7: Same as above until reaching Makalu Base Camp.
Day 8: Exploration at Base Camp.
Day 9: Helicopter return to Kathmandu.
Day 10–14: Rest day and Kathmandu sightseeing or international departure.
This short version significantly reduces the number of walking days and is ideal for adventurers with time constraints or those prone to AMS.
The Makalu Base Camp trek cost depends on the duration, group size, service level, and transport mode.
| Service | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Trekking package (guide, porter, permits, meals, accommodation) | $2,100 – $2,400 |
| Flights (Kathmandu–Tumlingtar round trip) | $300 |
| Equipment rental | $50 – $100 |
| Tips & Extras | $100 – $200 |
Due to favorable bilateral pricing:
Makalu Base Camp trip cost for Indian trekkers ranges from INR 95,000 to 1,20,000 inclusive of domestic flights, permits, guide, porter, meals, and accommodation.
Special discount available for Indian student groups or corporate teams through Himalayan Adventure International Treks.
Nepali trekkers benefit from local rates:
Makalu Base Camp Trek cost for Nepali citizens ranges between NPR 65,000 to NPR 85,000, which includes permits, transportation, meals, guide/porter, and insurance.
We organize treks for school/university groups at subsidized rates.
To enter the Makalu-Barun National Park, trekkers must obtain the following permits:
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3,000 (Approx. $23)
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: NPR 2,000 (Approx. $15)
Restricted Area Permit (if entering from Kimathanka or other zones) – Not required for standard route via Num.
Permits are arranged by Himalayan Adventure International Treks as part of the package.
Yes, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is considered strenuous and suitable for experienced trekkers. The trail includes steep ascents, narrow ridges, and several high-altitude passes like Shipton La (4,200m). The trek demands good physical fitness, mental resilience, and proper acclimatization.
AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is a genuine concern due to the trek’s elevation above 4,500 meters.
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Sleep disturbances
Gradual ascent
Acclimatization days
Stay hydrated
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Take Diamox (as prescribed)
All guides from Himalayan Adventure International Treks are trained in altitude sickness response and carry first aid kits and oxygen.
Trek costs in Nepal vary by region and duration:
Short treks (3–5 days): $300 – $600
Moderate treks (7–12 days): $800 – $1,500
Long/Remote treks (14–22 days): $2,000 – $3,000 (like Makalu or Kanchenjunga)
A standard 14-day Everest Base Camp trek costs around $1,400 – $1,800, including flights, guide, porter, accommodation, meals, and permits.
At Himalayan Adventure International Treks, we specialize in personalized and safe trekking experiences. Our Makalu Base Camp trek package includes:
Government-certified guides & porters
All permits and logistics handled
Delicious, hygienic meals
Emergency backup and evacuation support
Cultural immersion and sustainable travel
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an ultimate Himalayan adventure for true explorers. Whether you're a solo traveler, Indian/Nepali citizen, or international trekker, Himalayan Adventure International Treks ensures a seamless and unforgettable journey.
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