Group Size
Min 2 Max 14
Duration
22 Days
Grade
For seasoned adventurers, these trips are physically demanding and require excellent fitness, endurance, and prior trekking or climbing experience. They involve high altitudes (above 6000m), glacier crossings, and technical elements like using ropes or crampons.
Max. Altitude
4,870m/15978ft
Activity
Trekking in Nepal
Accomodation
Trip Overview
Makalu Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Start a journey with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar with an aerial view of mountains and rolling hills.
- Spectacular trek in the isolated area of the eastern Himalayas of Nepal.
- Discover the rich diversity in flora and fauna of the Makalu Conservation Area.
- Stand and feel the sense of accomplishment at the base camp of the world’s fifth-highest mountain.
- Witness the close-up look of the western face of Mount Makalu (8,485m).
- Pass through several monasteries and learn about the area’s unique culture and tradition.
- Accompanied by the breathtaking view of numerous snow-capped peaks, including Mount Makalu, Baruntse, Chamlang, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks.
- Navigate through the high passes of Shipton La Pass (4,216m), offering a real sense of adventure.
- Pass through varied terrain from lush forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Brief
Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of the spectacular treks in Nepal. It takes us close to the world’s fifth-highest Makalu Mountain in the Eastern Himalayas. The Makalu Base Camp trek route progresses through Makalu Barun National Park, renowned for its rare flora and fauna. Opened for foreigners only since 1952, the Trek to Makalu Base Camp is one of the least crowded trekking routes where one can still observe local life in its traditional form. Eric Shipton was the first foreigner to visit this lost land by crossing the High Pass, which was later named Shipton La in his honor.
The Makalu region is one of the most culturally diverse areas. The Makalu Base Camp trek allows a close-up look at the western face of Makalu. The Base Camp allows scenic views of Makalu Mountain (8463m), Mount Everest (8850m), Lhotse Mountain (8516m), Baruntse Mountain (7220m), and other peaks and mountains. The journey takes us through the deep Arun Valley, located at 435m above sea level, to the base of Makalu Mountain. The route is quite remote, with little permanent settlement.
Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather or health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggages in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard of Highland Expeditions at the exit of arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,550m/4,430ft
Exploration of Kathmandu and trek prepration
After an early breakfast, we set out on a guided tour to the primary historical spots in Kathmandu. We will tour symbolic monuments, temples, monasteries, palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Sites that include: Boudhanath, and the temples of Pashupatinath. As we stroll along the exotic locales of Kathmandu, more diversified cultural settings in the valley welcome us with warm hospitality. At Boudhanath, one of the biggest stupas in Asia, we get deep insights into Buddhism. This may invoke your spiritual senses. There will be a brief orientation followed by trek preparation during late afternoon at the hotel lobby.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,455ft
Fly to Tumlingtar
Early in the morning, after breakfast, we will drive to the domestic terminal of the Airport in Kathmandu. Taking 50 minutes of scenic flight close to the Himalayas with breathtaking views of Mountains and peaks, we will take a flight to Tumlingtar. The town is in the Sankhuwasabha district of Koshi Province between the Arun and Sabha rivers. Additionally, Tumlingtar serves as the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp trek. Your overnight and dinner days are at the lodge in Tumlingtar.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Max Elevation:
518m/1,700ft
Trek to Chichira
Makalu Base Camp Trek begins on this day. After our breakfast at Tumlingtar and assembling the crew, we will take the raised path to arrive at the confluence of Arun, Koshi and Sabha Rivers. We will climb uphill through many pretty small highland villages, subtropical forests and terraced lands to reach Mane Bhanjyang. Moving further through ridges, we will arrive at Arun Than. Passing through Sheka and Bhotebas villages, we will cross Bamboo and rhododendron forest to reach the Gurung village of Chichira where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,980m/6,497ft
Trek to Num
Our campsite in Chichira allows breathtaking view of Makalu Mountain. Leaving Chichira early in the morning, we will cross the glaciated river and move through verdant forest of bamboos and rhododendron to pretty small villages of Sherpa and Rai ethnics. We need to take the descending path to Num village which is perched atop the ridge above Arun koshi River. We will stay overnight in Num.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,500m/4,922ft
Trek to Seduwa
Lowering down from Num, we will walk past forest and terraced farmlands to reach Lumbang settlement. From Lumbang, we will take sharp descend further to Arun River. Many slopes covered in forest can be found in the narrow valley. We will follow the slippery path to Arun Koshi River. Crossing a suspension bridge, we will follow the ascending trail uphill to Sedua. We will stay overnight in a large camping site in Sedua / Seduwa. Seduwa also serves as the entry point for Makalu Barun National Park. We need to show our trekking permits to officials in Seduwa.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,493m/4,899ft
Trek to Tashi Gaon
Our campsite in Sedua allows scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Today’s trek is short, taking just 3-4 hours. We will take an easy walk passing through rivulets, Mani walls, meadows, and terraces, and reach the top of the ridge over Ipsuwa and Kasuwa rivers. We will pass through crop fields in tiny Sherpa villages. Walking through the crop fields, we will reach Tashi Gaon village, where we will stay overnight. Moreover, your dinner will also be served at the Tashi Goan where you stay.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,200m/7,218ft
Trek to Khongma Dada
We will follow the ascending trail via colorful rhododendron and oak forest. We will cross rivulets at few points to arrive at meadow full of lush green vegetation. The meadow is used as grazing land for local cattle. The area is crowded with Shepherd huts (Chipla). We will follow the steep trail through Kharka and take stone steps to Khongma which is perched atop the ridge. Stay overnight in Khongma Danda.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,500m/11,483ft
Trek to Mumbuk
Being at the top of hill, our campsite at Khongma Danda allows picturesque views of Chamlang Mountain (7321m) and other peaks. We will follow the scenic path decorated with prayer flags all the way to the foothill of Shipton Pass. We will travel along the ridge through a rhododendron forest to Ghungru La (4050m). Brief descend from Ghungru La will take us to small turquoise blue lake. We will cross Shipton Pass and arrive at Keke la Pass. Once we cross Keke La, we will lower down to valley full of rhododendron at Mumbuk where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,540m/11,615ft
Trek to Nehe Kharka
We will leave our campsite at Mumbuk and walk through colorful rhododendron and fir forest. We will lower down from forest to the Barun River. The trail progresses along the small cave (3,250m). We will lower down from the cave and enter in Barun Valley. The valley is remote and accepts only few visitors each year. Walking through the valley, we will cross Barun River and reach Yangle Kharka. Brief walk from Yangle Kharka will take us to Nehe Karka where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,750m/12,304ft
Trek to Sherson
From Nehe Kharka, we will lower down and cross small pass to reach Piphuk Kharka (3,930m). The trail progresses along cascading waterfall to a meadow. We will cross the grazing land of Yak Kharka and pursue the trail along moraine from Barun glacier. The path is scenic that allows views of several peaks above 6,000 m height. Leaving the valley, we will cross rhododendron forest and reach Sherson where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,600m/15,092ft
Trek to Makalu Base Camp
After an early breakfast, we will follow the ascending trail to a small pass 100 m above Makalu base camp. We will go down to the river and reach Makalu Base Camp on the western edge of the river. The Base Camp allows scenic views of the southern face of stunning Makalu Mountain. Standing at the foothill of Manalsu provides you with a sense of accomplishment. Take a moment to be proud of yourself and your efforts, capture the moment, and have your supper while witnessing a mesmerizing sunset. Ovenright at Makalu Base Camp.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Max Elevation:
4,870m/15,978ft
Trek to Yangre Kharka
Makalu Base Camp is our final destination for this trek so we will be pursuing a return trip from this day. We will leave Makalu Base Camp early in the morning and take a descending path via Sherson and Merek to reach valley. We will descend from the valley and follow the easy path to Yangre Kharka where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
[3,645m/11,959ft
Trek to Mumbuk
Yangre Kharka, also known as Yangle Kharka, is a cattle grazing area. We will walk through lush green vegetation. After a couple of hours, we will arrive at rugged terrain, eventually leading us to Mumbuk. It takes 4-5 hours to travel from Yangre Kharka to Mumbuk. In the evening, you can explore the Mumbuk village and connect with the locals. The day’s accommodation point is in Mumbuk.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,540m/11,615ft
Trek to Khongma Ridge
Leaving Mumbuk early in the morning, we will walk through verdant forest of rhododendron and fir and reach base of Keke La Pass. We will climb Keke La and reach Shipton La from where we need to cross yet another pass named Ghungru La to reach Khongma where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,500m/11,483ft
Trek to Seduwa via Tashi Gaon
We will lower down from Khongma ridge and follow the path lined with rhododendron forest. Exiting from the forest, we will move through rocky area. Continuing further through the grass land, we will arrive at Sherpa village of Tashi Gaon. We will exit from Tashi Gaon and walk through terraced fields. The path is scenic with views of mountains. We will lower down to Arun River and make it to Seduwa/ Seeduwa for overnight stay.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dnner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,200m/7,218ft
Trek to Chhoyang
We will leave Seduwa early in the morning. Following the descending trail through farm fields, we will reach Arun River in an hour. We will move through small villages of Mulgaon and Walung. Crossing farm houses, we will pursue the less trekked trail along Arun River gorge valley. This is an easy walk that progresses at low altitude. We will reach Chhoyang where we will stay overnight in a camp that we will set up near Arun River.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
820m/2,691ft
Trek to Bumling
We will leave Chhoyang and pursue the scenic trail along Arun River which will take us to Parangbu village. Brief walk from Parangbu will take us to Mangtewa Phedi. Journey continues through area clustered with small villages. Series of bending path at lower elevation will take us to Bumling where we will stay overnight.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
350m/1,149ft
Trek to Tumlingtar
This is the last day of trek. We will reach Tumlingtar on this day. The path takes us along Arun River and farm terraces to Kulung village. Walking further, we will reach Kartikeghat. Exiting from Kartikeghat village, we will reach the suspension bridge. We will cross Arun River over a bridge and enter sub-tropical forest that will lead us to Tumlingtar. Stay overnight in Tumlingtar.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
518m/1,700ft
Fly to Kathmandu
It’s time to return from the Manaslu region. Early morning, you’ll fly to Tumlingtar. It takes 50 minutes of scenic flight to reach Kathmandu Airport from Tumlingtar. Once we arrive at the Domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport, you will be transferred back to the hotel for a comfortable stay. Check into your hotel, take a rest, and stroll around the Thamel area in the evening. Yet, return to your hotel for your night stay.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Free day in Kathmandu
Free and easy day to spend, perhaps doing shopping or rest at hotel’s beautiful court-yard. At eventide, we will relish a farewell dinner to celebrate your successful completion of the ‘Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar Trek.’ While enjoying our supper, we will also be entertained to a scintillating cultural dance performed by the local belles Please do not hesitate to let us know if you would like to extend your stay. Kindly email us for more details on extensions.
Meals:
Breakfast,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
International Departure
The hardest part of the journey is approaching: your departure day. With a heavy heart, our representative will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport. Still, if you have time to spend in Nepal, let us know. We’ll customize your trip according to your preferences and time availability. If not, we must say goodbye to you. We hope you enjoyed the trip and will remember us for your future adventure in Nepal. Save travels.
Meals:
Breakfast
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.
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Cost Inclusion
- Fully organized teahouse/lodge trek
- All meals (B,L,D) on trek including hot water and tea.
- Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 4 nights with breakfast
- Internal flights
- All required permits for trek
- All ground transfers as per mentioned in the itinerary
- An English speaking local leader with full support crew 1:4 sherpa guide to client ratio
- Sightseeing of Kathmandu including guide and entrance fees
- Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts
- Comprehensive first aid kit.
- Duffel bag, Sleeping bag and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of trek)
- Staff insurances and allowances
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare, Visa and travel insurance
- Meals at Kathmandu
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
- Personal expenses and tips
FAQs
1. What is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
2. How do the Manaslu Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks differ?
3. When to trek to Makalu Base Camp?
4. Which is the offseason of the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
5. What are the accommodation and food facilities along the trek to Makalu Base Camp?
6. Can a beginner trek to Makalu Base Camp?
7. Is altitude sickness a concern during the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
8. Do I need to hire a guide and a porter for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
9. How hard is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
10. Are there hot showers and wifi facilities along the route to Makalu Base Camp?
Makalu Base Camp Trek Distance
The Makalu Base Camp Trek covers 216km/ 93 miles in a round trip, starting and ending at the same location, Tumlingtar. It takes 20-22 days to complete and involves walking for 5-6 hours or more daily. Likewise, trekkers should cover 10-15km each day. Here is the approximate distance breakdown during the Makalu Base Camp Trek:
| Trek Route | Distance Covered (Approximate) |
| Tumlingtar to Chichira | 13km |
| Chichira to Num | 14km |
| Num to Seduwa | 15km |
| Seduwa to Tashi Goan | 10km |
| Tashi Goan to Khongma Danda | 12km |
| Khongma Danda to Mumbuk | 14km |
| Mumbuk to Nehe Karka | 13km |
| Nehe Karka to Sherson | 12km |
| Sherson to Makalu Base Camp | 12km |
| Makalu Base Camp to Yangre Kharka | 16km |
| Yangre Kharka to Mumbuk | 16km |
| Mumbuk to Khongma Ridge | 14km |
| Khongma Ridge to Seduwa | 20km |
| Seduwa to Chhoyang | 15km |
| Chhoyang to Bumling | 10km |
| Bumling to Tumlingtar | 10km |
Location and History of Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp is within the Makalu Barun National Park in the eastern Himalayas. At an elevation of 5,500m/ 18,044ft, it lies at the foot of Mount Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world (8,485m/ 27,838ft). The base Camp is located in the Koshi Province of Sankhuwasabha District. It is at a latitude of 27.8856°N and a longitude of 87.0883°E. Moreover, the base camp is located in the remote Barun Valley.
The history of Makalu Base Camp began in 1954, when an American team led by Riley Keegan explored the Makalu region and reached its summit. Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy, members of a French expedition led by Jean Franco, were the first to summit the peak. The successful climb of the climbers garnered the attention of adventurers worldwide, drawing recognition to the peak and the region of the world. Additionally, trekking in the Makalu region started gaining popularity in the 1980s as new trekking routes were opened.
Is the Makalu Base Camp Trek suitable for you?
Yes, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is suitable for you if you are an adventurous trekker seeking strenuous hiking in the Himalayas. The trek suits you if you are physically and mentally fit and okay with walking for 6-7 hours daily in rough terrain for several days. Likewise, it is suitable for beginners who have a good level of physical fitness and regularly exercise. Yet, prior trekking experience is always beneficial.
Additionally, the Makalu Base Camp Trek takes trekkers above the elevation of 5,100m, requiring proper preparation and mental preparedness. Thus, the trek suits those who are physically and mentally ready for the challenges and altitude-related risks. Moreover, the trek is ideal for those seeking off-beaten paths on less crowded trails that are unspoiled by modern technologies and offer an isolated experience.
Major Attractions of Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Barun National Park
The entire trek to Makalu Base Camp takes place within the Makalu Base Camp area, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers. Each step of this voyage amazes trekkers with diverse sights and wildlife views. A home to over 400 species of birds and more than 75 mammals, including the Red Panda and leopard, the journey offers a rare glimpse of the local fauna.
Mountain Views
The trek to Makalu Base Camp offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountain range at every step. Yet, the view of Makalu (8,485m) is the highlight of the trek, accompanying trekkers at every turn. Additionally, the views of Mount Everest and Lhotse are also dazzling and attractive from notable locations like Shipton La and Makalu Base Camp. Additionally, the view of Baruntse, Chamlang, and sometimes Kanchenjunga is also visible along the Manaslu Base Camp Trek.
Glacier and Waterfall
The majesty of nature, including glaciers and waterfalls, is another significant attraction of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. One notable highlight is the Barun Glacier, situated near the Makalu Base Camp. Another attraction is the smaller glacier, known as the Lower Barun Glacier. Moreover, trekkers pass through the Barun Valley, renowned as the land of waterfalls, which further enhances the beauty and visual feast of the trek.
Arun Valley
Located between the Everest and Makalu regions, the Arun Valley is another significant attraction of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. At 435 m deep, it is the deepest valley in the world. Likewise, the valley contrasts lowland subtropical forests with high-altitude snow-capped mountains, making it a diverse and appealing trekking route. Moreover, the Arun River originates in Tibet and cuts through the valley, creating mesmerizing waterfalls and deep gorges that add to the trek’s attraction.
Major Permits needed for Makalu Base Camp Trek
A Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit and a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card are two major permits needed for the Makalu Base Camp trek. The permits are major because trekkers can’t complete the trek without them and face difficulties along the way. Each of the permits is mandatory if you are going for the trek. Additionally, travelers can obtain permits from both the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Furthermore, the journey to Makalu Base Camp takes place within the conservation area of Makalu National Park, so a Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit is essential. Likewise, TIMS is necessary to ensure trekkers’ safety and keep track throughout the trip. Without the permits, trekkers get fined on the spot and face other penalties per the rules and regulations.
Cost of Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit:
| Nationality | Cost |
| Foreign Nationals | NPR 3,000 per person. |
| SAARC Nationals | NPR 1,500 per person. |
Cost of Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card:
| Nationality | Cost |
| Foreign Nationals | NPR 2,000 per person. |
| SAARC Nationals | NPR 1,000 per person. |
What preparations do you need for the Makalu Trek?
When it comes to preparation for the Manaslu Trek, it involves a thorough mindfulness and focus on physical fitness, mental preparedness, acclimatization, and packing the right gear. Here is how trekkers should prepare for the Makalu Base Camp Trek:
Physical Preparation
The Makalu Base Camp trek requires a high level of physical fitness, as it is a challenging trip. Physical preparation includes activities such as hiking, running, and cycling to build endurance. Likewise, trekkers should focus on strength training targeting the legs, core, and back. Additionally, trekkers should begin training 3-6 months prior to the trek for a smooth and worry-free journey.
Mental Preparation
Mental preparation is as necessary as physical preparation. Trekking in rough terrain for 18-20 days, gaining altitude each day, and facing new challenges daily requires a good mental state and preparedness. To prepare yourself mentally, you must understand the challenges that may arise, be prepared for potential problems such as fatigue and discomfort, maintain a positive mindset, and set realistic expectations.
Acclimatization Strategy
As Makalu Base Camp is located at a high altitude, the trek requires proper acclimatization to minimize or avoid altitude-related issues. One major acclimatization strategy for the successful trek to Makalu Base Camp is to follow the rule of “Climb High, Sleep Low.” Another strategy involves scheduling acclimatization days at key locations to let your body adjust to the changed temperature. Likewise, trekkers should maintain a slow and steady pace, stay hydrated, and consume high-calorie and nutritious meals.
Packing the right gear
A demanding trek like Makalu Base Camp requires careful preparation and the right gear. As the temperature of the Himalayas fluctuates, trekkers must pack layered clothing. They should pack moisture-wicking base layers, waterproof and windproof outer layers, thermal pants, and down jackets. Likewise, trekkers should invest in sturdy footwear, warm woolen socks, and comfortable camp shoes. Similarly, trekkers should pack a backpack and a daypack, a sleeping bag, a headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, a water purification tablet, and a first aid box, along with other personal miscellaneous items.
How to reach the starting Point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek? (replaced)
Tumlingtar, at an elevation of 518m/ 1700ft above sea level, is the starting point of the trek to Manaslu Base Camp. A 45-minute flight from Kathmandu’s domestic airport is a common and faster option to get to Tumlightar. However, ground transportation is also available. Yet, ground transportation is slower and less reliable than flight. Still, flights are generally more expensive than ground transportation.
The distance between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar is 425 kilometers/264 miles. Land transport to Tumlingatr is available via private vehicle, tourist bus, or local bus. The private vehicle takes 10-12 hours, which can be more expensive than the flight. Similarly, a tourist bus can take 12-14 hours, and it is a more popular option for ground transportation due to its comfort and affordable price. Moreover, the local bus takes 14-16 hours to get to the starting point of Makalu Base Camp, which is more economical but uncomfortable.
Makalu Base Camp Weather and Temperature
The Makalu Base Camp has four distinct seasons, and the weather and temperature vary seasonally. While Summer is the hottest time, winter is the coldest. Additionally, Spring and Autumn have mild temperatures. Yet, the temperature at a high altitude like Makalu Base Camp changes suddenly. Thus, trekkers must be prepared for weather fluctuations and layer themselves accordingly. Here is the season-wise weather and temperature of the Makalu Base Camp:
| Season | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature | Weather |
| Winter (December to February) | -10°C to 5°C | -20°C to -5°C | Cold, heavy snow, clear skies, freezing nights. |
| Spring (March to May) | 5°C to 15°C | -5°C to -10°C | Clear skies, moderate temperature, less snow, and rhododendron blossoms |
| Summer (June to August) | 10°C to 18°C | 0°C to -5°C | Monsoon with rain, cloudy. |
| Autumn (September to November) | 5°C to 15°C | -5°C to -10°C | Clear skies, stable weather, and moderate temperature. |
