22-Days Makalu-Barun National Park Trekking
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SELLER
SELLER
Budget
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
22 Days
Accommodation
Tea Houses
Best Time
Spring and Autumn
Max Alt
4,870m (15,978ft)
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Trek Overview
Discover the Hidden Gem of Nepal
The Makalu trekking inside the Barun National Park of Nepal is counted as one of the most spectacular off-the-beaten-path treks. The trek begins in the eastern Himalayas and leads hikers through the untouched wild areas of Makalu Barun National Park, which features its exceptional wildlife and stunning natural scenery.
At the core of this journey lies Mount Makalu (8,463m), the fifth highest peak on earth. This trek provides a peaceful yet real Himalayan experience, unlike the packed Everest and Annapurna routes. The path leads you through three distinct environments from tropical forests to alpine meadows and finally to the icy glaciers.
If you want to spend some time off track and attempt some truly less-trodden interior trek in Nepal, this trek is definitely for you.
Why Choose Makalu Barun Trekking
The Makalu trek offers travelers solitude, authentic cultural experiences and unspoiled natural environments. Firstly, the tracks are less frequented in comparison to the other areas. This allows one to absorb the environment in its entirety, without distraction. The red panda, snow leopard, and hundreds of bird species are inhabitants of the area.
Furthermore, one of the major rewards is the cultural experience. The journey will take you through traditional villages where local residents maintain their ancient Himalayan traditions. The trekking experience provides both an adventurous and cultural exploration.
Trip Highlights
- The scenic flight to Tumlingtar offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range.
- Experience an unspoiled natural environment of Barun Valley through hiking
- Get a bird’s eye view of Makalu, Baruntse, and Chamlang
- Dense forests with rhododendron bushes and various animal species.
- The experience of Makalu Base Camp reaches an altitude of 4870 meters.
- The path leads to untouched natural areas that provide a genuine experience of remote hiking.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by warm, smiling faces by our team, who will then transfer you to your hotel. After the check-in, the proper rest or the colorful vitality of the Thamel streets await you to explore, relax and discover from that moment on. The evening trek briefing include a session where you meet your guide and learn the itinerary, safety procedures, altitude awareness and packing guidelines.
2
Today, spend your time exploring the rich cultural heritage and history of the Kathmandu Valley. UNESCO World Heritage Sites that you will visit include Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Those landmarks are related to the spiritual and architectural heritage of Nepal. Also, we will arrange the trekking permits and double-check the equipment. This very day prepares you mentally and physically for the future remote journey.
3
The trekkers will board a morning flight which will take them to Tumlingtar. The flight provides passengers with views of rivers, hills and the remote Himalayan mountains. After the flight, one begins a drive through the curvy roads along the rural landscapes, terraced farms and traditional villages. Journeying to Chichila will give you a first taste of the breath-taking beauty of the untouched eastern Nepal. This evening you will settle at a local lodge, pretty much in anticipation of the trek that begins the following day.
4
Today is the day the trek begins! The trail passes through lush forests, small settlements, and cultivated farmland. As you travel, you will have great views of the valley of the Arun River and the surrounding hills. This trek has gentle ascents and descents and is a good initial valley trek. The route offers a gradual path which ascends and descends, providing an ideal first experience for trekkers. At the top of a ridge is Num, an enchanting village from where one may marvel at scenic panoramas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours
Max. Altitude: 1,500m/4,921ft. ()
5
In the morning, the trekkers begin their descend into the thick forest down to the Arun River. Once you cross a suspension bridge, you will start climbing uphill at a constant pace among terraced fields and traditional villages. The trail offers visitors an authentic experience of traditional Nepalese rural life. The path to Sedua leads to a different environmental atmosphere that marks the start of Makalu Barun National Park.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours
Max. Altitude: 1,540m/5,052ft. ()
6
The path leads through forested areas and agricultural fields to higher ground while providing stunning views of nearby mountains. You traverse small hamlets where the locals practice subsistence agriculture. Because Tashigaon is the last permanent village here, it becomes an important center before entering some farthest, very high-altitude regions. The peace and mountain views make it a great overnight stay.
Activity: 4 to 5 hours
Max. Altitude: 2,100m/6,890ft. ()
7
This is considered to be a strenuous day of the trek. The trail ascends steeply through the lush rhododendron forests and stone staircases. As altitude increases, the vegetation thins out and the air gets chillier. At some point of time due to increase in altitude, you begin to feel altitude sickness, so try to move slower. Khongma offers awesome panorama at the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours approx.
Max. Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft. ()
8
On the eighth day of the trek, to assist in the acclimatization process, we take an extra day at Khongma. Short hikes can get your body used to altitude so take hiking trips to the nearby ridges. This day is crucial for the prevention of altitude sickness. While moving down the hills, one can relax, gaze at the mountain scenery, and get ready for the high passes ahead in the next few days.
9
Today you will climb multiple high passes including Shipton La, situated at approx 4200m on our way. Challenging yes, but the trek rewards trekkers with a great panoramic view of snow-capped peaks. After crossing the pass, you start a long descent into the very beautiful Barun Valley. The route is going to be somewhat quieter and less touched. Rocky terrain at some portions fades in and out through dense woods up to Mumbuk.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours
Max. Altitude: 3,350m/10,991ft. ()
10
From here, you will descend down to the banks of the Barun River, passing through the forest, landslide areas, and open valleys. Along the way, you’ll spot waterfalls, cliffs, and unique rock formations. Slowly, the landscape unfolds into vast alpine meadows. Yangle Kharka is a picturesque grazing land surrounded by towering peaks and tranquil surroundings.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
Max. Altitude: 3,600m/11,811ft. ()
11
The higher you ascend, the more the environment transforms into a rugged and desolate terrain. The trail gradually ascends, giving a splendid view of Makalu and other Himalayan range. Air gets thinner, so you have to be cautious and choose the right pace. From Merek one can look at the whole Himalayan landscape and realize its vastness.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
Max. Altitude: 4,570m/14,993ft. ()
12
Today is a shorter trek but into the higher terrain. You will hike over rocky terrain and glacial moraines. As we move closer to the mountain range, the scenery grows to be more dramatic. Shersong is a small settlement near the base camp area, providing mesmerizing vistas of the high mountains.
Activity: 4 to 5 hours
Max. Altitude: 4,660m/15,289ft. ()
13
The trek reaches its most exciting point when you hike to Makalu Base Camp. This is a climax of your trek. Here you will get to enjoy the views of glaciers and Baruntse and Chamlang peaks alongside Mount Makalu. Take your time to explore the surrounding, photograph and enjoy the unspoiled nature of the Himalayas. This is an unforgettable moment.
Activity: 4 to 5 hours
Max. Altitude: 4,870m/15,978ft. ()
14
After having a wonderful time at the base camp, it’s time to journey back. The descent to Shersong is not as hard and tedious as before, as one gets to look at the scenery from a different angle.
Activity: 3 to 4 hours
15
Further descents through the Barun Valley. The trail becomes easier, and the increasing oxygen levels make walking more comfortable. The peaceful surroundings together with the natural beauty create a space for you to enjoy.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
Max. Altitude: 3,600m/11,811ft. ()
16
The path will take you through the same route which leads you back to your starting point through the wooded areas and the open valleys. Descent allows you to relax and relish the wonder of nature you may have missed earlier.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
Max. Altitude: 3,540m/11,614ft. ()
17
Trek back to Khongma today, with gradual ascents. The trail becomes enjoyable because its familiar path leads to beautiful sightseeing.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours
18
Through forests and hills descend back down to Tashigaon. The warmer weather and greenery serve as a wonderful change after so many days of high altitude.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours
19
Descend further into Num. The trail follows both uphill and downhill sections, which offers a breathtaking view of the rivers and valleys.
Activity: 6 to 7 hrs
20
Today, you will trek back to Chichila. This is a really good opportunity to look back on your journey and appreciate the victories.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours
21
Travel back to Tumlingtar through scenic rural roads. Then you take a flight back to Kathmandu. You can have your farewell dinner this evening and can share experiences of your trekking.
22
Your unforgettable, epic Makalu journey comes to an end. Transfer to the airport for your next destination, taking with you unforgettable memories of one of Nepal’s most remote and beautiful trekking regions.
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Trip Information
Best Time for Trekking
The best seasons for the Makalu Base Camp Trek are spring and autumn.
- Spring (March to May) blooms with colorful rhododendrons in forests, with consistent weather.
- Autumn ( September to November), there is an attractive view of the mountains with clear blue skies.
On the contrary, the monsoon season brings heavy rains, and in winter, it is freezing cold, with unfavorable conditions making trekking harder.
Level of Difficulty
The trek to Makalu is classified as moderate to tough. It takes days of walking, several steep ascends, and an altitude reaching up to 4870 m. As such, physical conditioning and acclimatization cannot be ignored.
With preparation and guidance, however, it becomes a highly rewarding adventure.
Permits & Requirements
To trekking in this region you will need;
- Makalu Barun National Park Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
Besides, trekking with an experienced guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation.
Accommodation and food
The trek provides different options for accommodation at each stage of the journey.
The lower regions of the area contain basic tea houses which provide basic accommodations through their simple rooms. The need for camping becomes necessary at higher altitudes because of the shortage of available facilities.
Food mainly consists of local food materials like Dal Bhat, noodles, various soups, and tea. However, the meals are nutritious yet simple and ideal for trekking.
Conclusion: Start Your Makalu Adventure Today
The Makalu (Barun National Park) Trekking route allows one to visit one of Nepal’s most untouched regions of the Himalayas. From biodiversity to the towering peaks, every step of the journey is an experience of its own.
If it is a true wilderness trek away from overcrowded trails that you want, then this is the trek for you.
At Prime Holiday Travel and Tour, our focus is to ensure your trips are safe and enjoyable.
Reserve your Makalu Base Camp Trek today and experience the beauty of Nepal in its purest form.
TOP
SELLER
SELLER
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
22 Days
Accommodation
Tea Houses
Best Time
Spring and Autumn
Max Alt
4,870m (15,978ft)
