Have Questions? Talk to Expert (Binod)
Makalu (8,485m) is the fifth highest mountain in the world, located in the Mahalangur Himalayas southeast of Mount Everest. Unlike Everest, Makalu is known for its technical difficulty, requiring climbers to have strong mountaineering skills. The mountain features sharp ridges, steep pitches, and exposure to high-altitude weather challenges.
For climbers looking to join a group, the cost typically ranges between USD 12,000 to USD 18,000 per person. The price depends on services such as logistics, base camp support, permits, guide fees, and transportation.
Solo climbers often face higher expenses due to the need for independent arrangements. The cost for a solo Makalu expedition can range from USD 20,000 to USD 30,000, covering permits, guide fees, porters, food, and logistics.
For a fully organized group expedition, the cost can be around USD 15,000 to USD 22,000 per climber, depending on the number of members, services included, and climbing duration.
For those who need only base camp services, the cost generally falls between USD 5,000 to USD 7,000. This includes accommodation, food, communication, and necessary base camp logistics.
A professional expedition guide costs approximately USD 5,000 to USD 8,000, covering their salary, insurance, and logistical support.
Makalu climbing permits are issued by the Nepal Government. The costs are as follows:
Spring (March-May): USD 1,800 per climber
Autumn (September-November): USD 900 per climber
Winter/Summer (December-February & June-August): USD 450 per climber
Garbage deposit: USD 3,000 (refundable upon proper waste disposal)
Kathmandu to Tumlingtar Flight: USD 200-250 per person (one-way)
Kathmandu to Num by Jeep: USD 300-500 (private vehicle)
Helicopter to Base Camp: USD 3,500-5,500 per flight (optional)
A helicopter from Kathmandu to Makalu Base Camp costs around USD 4,500-6,000 depending on group size.
Porters charge USD 25-40 per day, with each porter carrying up to 25 kg of luggage.
Tea houses on the trek: USD 10-20 per night
Meals: USD 5-15 per meal
Base Camp full board meal plan: USD 40-60 per day
Climbers must budget USD 5,000-8,000 for technical climbing gear, high-altitude clothing, and oxygen cylinders.
Each oxygen bottle costs around USD 500-700, and climbers usually require 3-6 bottles.
Ice axe
Crampons
Climbing harness
Carabiners
Mountaineering boots
Down suit
Sleeping bag (-40°C)
Trekking poles
Helmet
Ropes & ascenders
Waterproof jacket & pants
Thermal inner layers
Gloves and mittens
Sunglasses & goggles
High-altitude tent
Headlamp
Personal medication
Power bank
Symptoms of AMS include headache, nausea, and dizziness. Prevention methods:
Acclimatization days
Hydration
Slow ascent
Use of Diamox (if necessary)
The trek follows a route from Tumlingtar to Num, Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma, and finally Makalu Base Camp.
The base camp is situated at 4,870m above sea level.
Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, drive to Num
Day 2: Trek to Seduwa
Day 3: Trek to Tashigaon
Day 4: Trek to Khongma Danda
Day 5: Trek to Dobato
Day 6: Trek to Yangle Kharka
Day 7: Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Day 8: Acclimatization day
Day 9-12: Return trek
Makalu is considered more technical than Everest due to steep ridges, rock faces, and fewer fixed ropes. However, Everest has higher altitude challenges.
The climbing permit for Makalu costs between USD 450 to USD 1,800 depending on the season.
An Everest expedition costs USD 35,000 to USD 80,000 depending on the services included.
Makalu is one of the most difficult 8,000m peaks due to its steep sections and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Tumlingtar flight, drive to Num
Day 2: Trek to Seduwa
Day 3: Trek to Tashigaon
Day 4: Trek to Khongma Danda
Day 5: Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Day 6-7: Return trek
Makalu Base Camp is located in the Sankhuwasabha District of Nepal.
Spring & Autumn: -5°C to 10°C
Winter: -20°C to -5°C
Summer: 0°C to 15°C
Manaslu (8,163m) is the eighth highest peak and offers a technical climb with an expedition cost of USD 10,000-18,000.
The cost for a Cho Oyu (8,188m) expedition ranges from USD 15,000 to 25,000, making it one of the more accessible 8,000m peaks.
Himalayan Adventure International Treks is a leading expedition organizer, offering high-quality logistics, experienced guides, and top-notch services for climbers.
For more details on your next adventure, visit our website or contact us today!
If you're an experienced mountaineer looking for the ultimate test of skill, strength, and spirit, the Makalu Expedition should be on your bucket list. Standing tall at 8,485 meters (27,838 ft), Mount Makalu is the fifth-highest mountain in the world. Located in the heart of the eastern Himalayas of Nepal, it lies just 19 kilometers southeast of Mount Everest on the Nepal-Tibet border within the Makalu-Barun National Park.
This grand peak, with its stunning pyramid shape and technical challenges, attracts climbers from across the world who seek adventure beyond Everest. In this detailed guide by Himalayan Adventure International Treks, we cover the Makalu Expedition Itinerary, costs, permits, logistics, comparisons with other peaks like Cho Oyu, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Unlike Everest, which is often crowded during the high seasons, Makalu offers solitude, raw beauty, and technical challenges that require seasoned mountaineering experience. The final ascent to the Makalu summit involves steep pitches, knife-edge ridges, and exposure to the unpredictable Himalayan elements.
Peak Altitude: 8,485 meters (27,838 ft)
Region: Sankhuwasabha district, eastern Nepal
First Ascent: 1955 by a French expedition
Climbing Season: Spring (April–May), Autumn (September–October)
Here is our expertly crafted Makalu Expedition Itinerary for 2025/26/27:
Meet our team at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Expedition briefing, equipment checks.
We arrange Makalu expedition permits and conduct a city tour if time permits.
This includes establishing Camp I, II, III, and IV before the final summit push. Rest and rotation cycles are planned based on weather and acclimatization.
The entire Makalu expedition typically takes 50–55 days, including trekking, acclimatization, climbing, and buffer days. Weather, fitness level, and climbing experience can influence the duration.
The Makalu expedition cost varies based on group size, services, logistics, and guiding expertise. At Himalayan Adventure International Treks, we offer a transparent and all-inclusive pricing structure.
Full Board Service (International clients): USD 19,000 – 22,000
Support Service Only (Nepali climbers): NPR 10 – 12 lakhs
Professional IFMGA/UIAGM-certified Sherpa guides
High-altitude porters and base camp staff
Domestic flights and land transfers
Meals and accommodations during trek & climb
Expedition royalty & climbing permit
Group mountaineering equipment
Base camp tents, oxygen, and communication gear
The full expedition cost to reach the Makalu summit, considering all logistics, staff, oxygen, permits, insurance, and equipment, ranges from USD 19,000 to USD 25,000 depending on the service level.
The Makalu climbing permit fee (for foreigners) is issued by the Nepal Government and costs:
Spring (March–May): USD 1,800 per person
Autumn (Sept–Nov): USD 900
Other seasons: USD 450
Additional fees include Makalu-Barun National Park Permit (USD 30) and Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card.
Technically, yes. While Everest is higher, Makalu is considered more technical and challenging, especially the knife-edge ridges and summit pyramid. There are fewer fixed lines and fewer rescue options. It demands excellent alpine experience, mental strength, and physical conditioning.
| Peak | Height (m) | Difficulty | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makalu | 8,485 | Very High | 19,000 – 25,000 |
| Mount Everest | 8,848.86 | High | 35,000 – 45,000 |
| Cho Oyu | 8,188 | Moderate | 15,000 – 18,000 |
| Annapurna I | 8,091 | Extreme | 18,000 – 24,000 |
| Manaslu | 8,163 | High | 14,000 – 18,000 |
| Dhaulagiri I | 8,167 | High | 17,000 – 22,000 |
| Kanchenjunga | 8,586 | Very High | 20,000 – 27,000 |
As seen, the Makalu expedition cost sits in the mid-upper range but offers unparalleled solitude and challenge.
Even for those not aiming for the summit, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is a spectacular journey through lush forests, high passes, and remote Sherpa villages.
Altitude: 4,870 meters (15,978 ft)
For Nepali trekkers, the cost is much more affordable:
NPR 45,000 – NPR 65,000, depending on services and group size.
Includes guide, permits, meals, accommodations, and transportation.
Yes, the trek is classified as moderate to difficult. It involves high altitudes, multiple passes, and remote terrain. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.
You’ll need the following permits:
Makalu-Barun National Park Permit: USD 30 for foreigners
TIMS Card: USD 20
For Nepalis: nominal fees through local government
The Makalu region lies in the Sankhuwasabha district, part of Province No. 1 in eastern Nepal. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China and includes parts of the Arun Valley.
We provide a detailed Makalu Base Camp trek map during our expedition briefings. It outlines trails, altitudes, rest points, and acclimatization zones. You’ll trek through diverse zones—from rice paddies to alpine tundra.
(A visual map can be provided on request.)
Proper acclimatization is essential. Our itinerary includes planned rest days and a rotation strategy for high-altitude camps. Safety equipment like satellite phones, oxygen cylinders, and Gamow bags are provided.
Best Months: April–May and September–October
Spring offers stable weather and longer days
Autumn provides clearer skies but colder nights
Avoid monsoon and winter due to avalanche and weather risks.
As a reputed local operator, Himalayan Adventure International Treks offers:
Expert Sherpa guides with Makalu experience
Affordable, transparent pricing
Tailor-made logistics and itineraries
24/7 on-ground support
Sustainable and eco-friendly practices
The Makalu Expedition is a mountaineer’s dream, combining breathtaking landscapes, technical climbing, and remote adventure. Whether you are a seasoned alpinist seeking your next 8,000-meter conquest or a passionate trekker aiming for Makalu Base Camp, this region promises unmatched thrills.
Get in touch with Himalayan Adventure International Treks for a personalized quote, detailed itinerary, and expert guidance for the Makalu Expedition 2025/26/27. Let us help you write your story on the slopes of Nepal’s most challenging and majestic mountain.
© 2011 - 2025 All rights reserved. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. Developed By : Xenatech Nepal
Plan Your Trip Now 
