Overview

There are very few less-crowded treks in Nepal, and the Makalu Base Camp is one of the most majestic and stunning. This trek offers adventurers the purest form of nature. Located in the heart of Makalu Barun National Park, it leads trekkers through diverse landscapes like subtropical forests and farmlands to high-altitude terrains filled with snow-capped peaks. Towering at 8485 meters, Makalu is the world’s fifth-highest peak. Unlike the more crowded ABC and the Everest Base Camp treks, this is an off-the-beaten-path experience. The outstanding scenery of Makalu Base Camp Trek’s route significantly provides unique cultural heritage and incredible views of mountain peaks. However, this is a relatively challenging trek where trekkers need at least some level of physical fitness.

The untamed eastern Himalayas of Nepal are one of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. Trekking to this region also gives the trekkers a sense of accomplishment. Let’s explore this amazing and underrated trek through the eastern part of Nepal.

Some Important Facts Of This Trek:

  • Location: Sankhuwasabha, Eastern Nepal
  • Maximum Elevation: 4870 meters
  • Trek Duration: 15-20 days
  • Walking Distance (Per Day): 5-6 hours
  • Best Time: Spring and Autumn
  • Accommodation: Hotels/ Tea Houses/ Lodges

Highlights Of This Trek:

  1. Stunning Mountain Views: The Makalu Base Camp Trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Makalu, the fifth-highest peak in the world. Along the trail, trekkers can enjoy amazing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains of the Everest region, creating ample photography opportunities for enthusiasts. The trek crosses several high-altitude passes, including the Shipton La Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
  2. Makalu Barun National Park: This park provides an opportunity to experience the exotic flora and fauna of this region. Trekkers might glimpse many unique animals native to this region on their way to Makalu Base Camp. It is perfect for bird watchers and animal lovers, as trekkers often encounter wildlife like Black Bears, Red Pandas, and Snow Leopards.
  3. Remote and rugged terrain: Unlike more popular trekking destinations like the Annapurna Base Camp, Everest region trek, and Mustang treks, this trek provides a unique experience. However, the lack of facilities may be a problem. Makalu Base Camp is far less crowded, providing trekkers with a serene and personal experience in one of Nepal’s untouched areas.
  4. Challenging Passes: This trek involves crossing high-altitude passes like the Shipton La and Keke La passes. Both of these passes offer amazing mountain views but also demand stamina and perseverance.
  5. Barun Valley: This trek crosses the Barun Valley, which has its own unique landscape and stunning natural beauty. The wide range of biodiversity of the Barun Valley is one of the few places on earth where tropical and alpine ecosystems coexist.
Makalu Barun
Makalu Base Camp (Source: Flickr)

 

Brief Itinerary:

  • Day 1- Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar: On the first day, you’ll fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and then trek to Seduwa.
  • Day 2- Sedhuwa to Tashigaon: On the second day, trek from Sedhuwa to Tashigaon, 2063 meters.
  • Day 3- Tashigaon to Kauma: The trek ascends as you approach Kauma,3470 meters from Sedhuwa.
  • Day 4- Kauma to Mumbuk: This day’s trek is a bit strenuous as you’ll approach high-altitude terrains.
  • Day 5- Mumbuk to Nehe Kharka: On the fifth day, you’ll reach Nehe Kharka from Mumbuk.
  • Day 6- Nehe Kharka to Sherson: On the sixth day, you’ll reach the higher ends of the Barun Valley.
  • Day 7- Sherson to Makalu Base Camp: On the seventh day, you shall finally reach the trek’s destination, Makalu Base Camp, 4870 meters.
  • Day 8- Explore the surroundings: On the next day, you can leisurely explore this amazing landscape.
  • Day 9- Makalu Base Camp to Shipton Camp: On the ninth day, you’ll descend and reach Shipton Camp.
  • Day 10- Shipton La Camp- Dobate- Sedhuwa: On this day, you’ll make your descent towards Sedhuwa, crossing Dobate on the way.
  • Day 11- Sedhuwa to Mure: Nearing the end of your amazing trek to Makalu Base Camp, you’ll descend quickly and reach Mure.
  • Day 12- Mure to Tumlingtar: On the twelfth day, you’ll reach the starting point of your trek, Tumlingtar.
  • Day 13- Tumlingtar to Kathmandu: On the last day of your trek, you’ll reach Kathmandu.

Here are some tips for this trek:

Best Time For this trek

Spring and Autumn are the prominent times for this trek. The weather becomes clearer around these times, and trekkers can enjoy beautiful, unobstructed views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Avoid the monsoon and winter for this trek, as the weather can get harsh during these times.

What To Pack

Very few tea houses and lodges are on the way to Makalu Base Camp, so be well-prepared with all the essentials. Pack warm clothes as the temperature drops down below zero at night. Acquire all the necessary permits and respect the local culture and traditions.

Also Read: A Day In The Hills: Kakani To Suryachaur Hike