Makalu Base Camp Trek

Introduction

The Makalu Base Camp trek runs through the remote eastern part of Nepal. Makalu is one of the world’s five highest mountains. This distinct mountain is located in the Makalu Barun National Park. Indeed, this region is of outstanding natural beauty.

The trekking route is not often visited by trekkers. Many of the locals live in isolated villages and rely on subsistence farming for their livelihoods. This trip is therefore a culturally unique and rich experience. Due to its relative seclusion, this area is little-known to tourists, and only a few trekking groups visit.

Makalu Base Camp Trek Overview

The Makalu Base Camp trek takes off with a flight to Tumlingtar at an altitude of 400 meters. In ten days, you will hike to Makalu Base Camp at the high point of 4755 meters.

First, you’ll trek through the lush green subtropical Arun Valley. The hike goes through dense rhododendron and pine forest. Fantastic panoramas offer themselves with every increasing height. You cross the two passes, Shipton La and Keke La. In between lies the picturesque Kalo Pokhari lake.

Soon after Dobate, you enter the river of Barun Nadi in the Barun Valley. It is a slow climb up to the alpine meadows, which are close to the Barun Glacier. Through the valley, you hike up to the Makalu Base Camp at 4755 meters. Once there, you’ll discover the teahouses are built on the glacier, a special experience. In fact, this base camp lies directly at the foot of the striking rock and ice wall of the beautiful Makalu (8463 meters).

From a viewpoint above base camp, the world’s highest summits dominate the horizon. Here, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Baruntse create an unforgettable skyline. In time, it’ll take you six to seven days to retrace your steps down the valley to Tumlingtar.