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The Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek offers an epic journey through the high Himalayas, crossing three major technical passes: Sherpani Col (6,135m), West Col (6,135m), and Amphu Labtsa (5,845m). This trek provides the rare opportunity to experience Makalu-Barun National Park, remote valleys, traditional Sherpa villages, high-altitude glaciers, and panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, and Makalu.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for mountaineers, photographers, and experienced trekkers alike.
Reach the stunning Makalu Base Camp (4,870m).
Cross three high-altitude mountain passes.
Explore remote regions of Makalu-Barun National Park.
Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, Makalu, and Chamlang.
Walkthrough unspoiled wilderness and isolated settlements.
Opportunity to combine with Mera Peak Climbing for added adventure.
| Pass/Point | Elevation (meters) |
|---|---|
| Makalu Base Camp | 4,870 m |
| Sherpani Col Pass | 6,135 m |
| West Col Pass | 6,135 m |
| Amphu Labtsa Pass | 5,845 m |
| Highest Camp | 5,700 m+ |
The Sherpani Col Pass Elevation and West Col Pass Elevation are identical, both requiring ropes and crampons due to technical icy terrain. The Amphulabtsa Elevation, though slightly lower, also involves abseiling and glacier crossing.
If you're asking, “How hard is the Sherpani Col Pass trek?” — the answer is: Extremely challenging.
This is one of the most strenuous treks in Nepal. You’ll trek over 6000m passes, navigate glacial moraines, and camp in high-altitude snowfields. The trek requires:
High fitness level
Basic mountaineering skills
Experience with crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes
It is not suitable for beginner trekkers.
For 2025/26, the cost of the West Col Pass Trek with Himalayan Adventure International Treks ranges from USD 4,200 to 5,000 per person. This includes:
Professional guide and porter
Climbing gear for passes
Domestic flights
Permits and logistics
Full camping and meals
Emergency support
This is a full expedition-style trek with everything organized for your safety and success.
For those just planning to reach Makalu Base Camp, the cost is significantly lower. The Makalu Base Camp Trek cost ranges between USD 1,800 to 2,400, depending on group size, services, and duration.
However, if you extend to Sherpani Col, West Col, and Amphu Labtsa, the cost increases due to technical logistics and higher-altitude camping.
The Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek itinerary typically takes 25 to 30 days depending on acclimatization and side trips. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Preparation day and permits
Day 3: Fly to Tumlingtar, drive to Num
Day 4-8: Trek to Makalu Base Camp via Seduwa, Tashi Gaon, Khongma Danda
Day 9-12: Acclimatization at Makalu Base Camp
Day 13: Trek to Hillary Base Camp
Day 14: Trek to High Camp
Day 15: Cross Sherpani Col (6,135m), camp in Baruntse glacier
Day 16: Cross West Col (6,135m), camp at Panch Pokhari
Day 17: Cross Amphu Labtsa Pass (5,845m), descend to Chhukung
Day 18-22: Trek to Lukla via Dingboche, Namche Bazaar
Day 23: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 24-25: Contingency/reserve days
Day 26: Departure
A detailed Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek map is provided by Himalayan Adventure Intl Trek upon booking. For online reference, search “Sherpani Col Pass Trek map” or “Makalu Sherpani Col (Three Col) Pass Trek map” on Google or Bing.
Interested in peak climbing? You can combine the trek with Mera Peak Climbing (6,476m). The Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek with Mera Peak Climbing itinerary extends by 4–5 days, and costs an additional USD 900 to 1,200, depending on guide support and permits.
USD 4,900 – 5,500 (all-inclusive)
This combination is perfect for adventurers wanting to climb a peak while also trekking through the remote Sherpani and West Col routes.
You might wonder how this compares to the popular Three Passes Trek Nepal itinerary (Renjo La, Cho La, Kongma La). While both treks cross high passes:
Everest 3 Passes Trek: Less technical, more teahouse-based, more crowded.
Makalu Three Col Pass Trek: Remote, more wild, technically demanding, fully camping-style.
So, if you’re looking for solitude and extreme adventure, Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek wins.
The best time to trek Makalu Sherpani Col Pass is:
Spring (April to early June): Best weather, stable snow conditions.
Autumn (Late September to mid-November): Clear skies, excellent visibility.
Avoid monsoon (June–August) and mid-winter (Dec–Feb) due to landslides and dangerous icy conditions.
The total Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek distance is approximately 180–200 km (112–125 miles) depending on the route taken and side treks. The route includes steep ascents, glacier crossings, and varied terrain.
Altitude sickness is a real threat on this trek. Here's how to prevent AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness):
Headache
Nausea
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Dizziness
Slow ascent and proper acclimatization
Hydration and nutrition
Diamox (as prescribed)
Rest days at Makalu Base Camp and Hillary Base Camp
Emergency oxygen and satellite communication (provided by Himalayan Adventure International Treks)
Himalayan Adventure International Treks is a trusted Nepali trekking company with decades of experience in organizing remote and high-altitude expeditions. Here’s why they’re the best choice for your Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek:
Expert Sherpa guides with mountaineering experience
High-quality gear and safety equipment
Customized itineraries with contingency plans
Small group-focused service
24/7 emergency support
Ethical treatment of porters and guides
You will need the following permits for this trek:
Makalu-Barun National Park Permit – NPR 3,000
TIMS Card – NPR 2,000
Climbing permit for Mera Peak (if combining)
Restricted Area Permit (for crossing passes) – Cost included in package
All permits are handled by Himalayan Adventure International Treks.
Some key gear required includes:
Down jacket (-20°C rated)
Sleeping bag (-20°C)
Mountaineering boots
Ice axe, harness, helmet (provided for pass crossings)
Crampons
Headlamp
Trekking poles
Technical gloves
A detailed packing list is provided upon booking.
To book the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek 2025/26, visit:
www.himalayanadventureintl.com
Email: info@himalayanadventureintl.com
WhatsApp/Viber: +977-9803526139
You can also find reviews and community insights on platforms like:
Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek Reddit
Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek Wikipedia
Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek Google results
Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek on Bing
The Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek is a truly extraordinary Himalayan expedition. It challenges your endurance, technical skills, and mental toughness — while rewarding you with surreal landscapes and unmatched adventure. If you're seeking a wild, remote, and unforgettable trek that few dare to undertake, this is it.
Let Himalayan Adventure International Treks be your trusted partner for this once-in-a-lifetime journey through Nepal's most remote mountain wilderness.
The Sherpani Col Trek is an adventurous high-altitude trek in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal. It crosses the Sherpani Col (6,135 meters) and the Sherpani Col Pass, offering stunning views of Makalu, Everest, and Kanchenjunga.
The trek typically starts from Tumlingtar and ends in Makalu Base Camp. Some itineraries may also include a return to Tumlingtar.
The best time for the Sherpani Col Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons when the weather is stable and the skies are clear.
The Sherpani Col Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its high altitude, technical passes, and remote terrain. It requires a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience.
Highlights include crossing the Sherpani Col and West Col passes, panoramic views of Makalu, Everest, and Kanchenjunga, exploring remote Sherpa villages, and experiencing diverse landscapes.
You will need a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and a Makalu Barun National Park entry permit. These can be arranged through a trekking agency.
The trek typically takes around 18 to 22 days, depending on the itinerary and pace of the trek.
The highest point of the trek is the Sherpani Col at 6,135 meters (20,120 feet).
Accommodation during the trek is primarily in teahouses or lodges, with some camping required in higher and more remote areas.
Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a guide and porter for the Sherpani Col Trek for safety and logistical support. They help navigate the challenging terrain and manage your luggage.
Essential gear includes warm clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a down jacket, trekking poles, and high-altitude gear such as crampons and an ice axe.
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern due to the high elevation. It is crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and follow the advice of your guide.
Food options include traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), as well as a variety of international dishes. Meals are generally prepared by the local teahouse staff or camp cooks.
The cost varies depending on the trekking agency, duration, and inclusions. On average, it ranges from $2,500 to $4,000, including permits, accommodation, guide, porter, and meals.
It is important to have a medical check-up before embarking on the trek. Ensure you are fit for high-altitude trekking and consult your doctor about altitude sickness prevention.
Solo trekking is not allowed in this region due to its remote and challenging nature. You must trek with an authorized guide and porter.
Weather conditions can vary, with cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes. Expect clear skies, but be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Daily trekking durations range from 5 to 8 hours, depending on the day's itinerary and terrain.
Yes, you will have the opportunity to interact with local Sherpa communities, visit monasteries, and experience traditional customs and hospitality.
Prepare by engaging in regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises, acclimatizing at high altitudes, and gaining experience with multi-day trekking.
In case of an emergency, contact your guide and follow their instructions. Emergency evacuation can be arranged by helicopter if needed, but ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for such situations.
Sherpani Col Pass Trek: A Comprehensive Guide
Embark on the extraordinary Sherpani Col Pass Trek, beginning in Tumlingtar, a vibrant gateway in eastern Nepal near the Tibet border. This epic journey takes you through the stunning Makalu Barun National Park and Sagarmatha National Park, offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural encounters.
Trek Overview
Difficulty: The Sherpani Col Pass Trek is a challenging to extreme adventure. Spanning approximately 20 days, this trek involves over 6 hours of hiking daily, crossing four major mountain passes, and ascending to altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). This demanding trek requires a strong fitness level, high stamina, and prior high-altitude trekking experience. If you're new to camping, consider a less remote trek for your first experience.
Preparation Tips:
Highlights of the Sherpani Col Pass Trek:
Makalu Barun National Park: Established in 1992, this park boasts a remarkable biodiversity, including 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 bird species, and 75 mammal species. It features both tropical forests and snow-capped peaks and borders Tibet’s Qomolangma National Nature Preserve.
Sagarmatha National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this park covers 443 square miles in the Solukhumbu District. It is home to 208 bird species and mammals such as the Himalayan Tahr and snow leopard. The park shares a border with Tibet’s Qomolangma National Nature Preserve.
Mountain Views: On this trek, you’ll encounter a plethora of awe-inspiring peaks, including:
Trek Itinerary:
You’ll start by flying to Tumlingtar and then drive to Chichila to begin your trek. The route follows the Makalu Base Camp Trek until you diverge towards the Swiss Base Camp. The trek involves crossing various mountain passes, transitioning from lush pastures and rhododendron forests to icy glaciers and rocky terrain.
Daily Routine:
Each day, your dedicated camp chef will prepare nutritious meals, including breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner. Expect a daily trek of 6 to 7 hours, with occasional longer stretches and acclimatization days. Prepare for diverse trail conditions, from suspension bridges to icy paths.
Safety and Gear:
Safety is paramount. Proper gear, including trekking poles and crampons, is essential. Always inform your guide of any discomfort or symptoms of altitude sickness. Exploring on your own is discouraged due to the remote and rugged nature of the trek.
Safety Tips:
Best Time to Trek:
Permits Required:
Camping Experience:
Given the trek’s remote nature, camping is the primary accommodation option. Your camp will include a tent, sleeping mat, toilet tent, and dining tent. The chef will prepare wholesome meals and ensure safe drinking water. Comfort items like chocolate bars and personal snacks are recommended.
What to Bring:
Porters and Gear:
Porters will handle tents, kitchen equipment, and food. They can also carry your gear, but please keep it to a reasonable weight.
Pre-Trek Preparation:
Inclusions and Exclusions:
Tips for Tipping:
Travel Insurance:
Ensure your travel insurance covers trekking up to 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) and includes helicopter evacuation.
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure on the Sherpani Col Pass Trek, where challenging terrain and stunning vistas await.
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