Nepal · Trekking

19-Day Makalu Base Camp Trek in Nepal with Barun Valley and Kathmandu

19 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Challenging pace
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Makalu Base Camp Trek

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek through remote Himalayan wilderness beneath Mount Makalu in untouched landscapes
  • 02 Discover rich biodiversity including red pandas, Himalayan monals, and diverse bird species
  • 03 Explore Barun Valley with rivers, waterfalls, and dramatic alpine scenery
  • 04 Experience authentic culture of Bhotia, Rai, and Gurung communities

Embark on the Makalu Base Camp Trek, a 19-day journey through Nepal's remote Himalayan wilderness. Explore the pristine Barun Valley, dense forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes beneath Mount Makalu. Trek through traditional villages of Bhotia, Rai, and Gurung communities while discovering rich biodiversity and rare wildlife. Experience challenging high passes, breathtaking viewpoints, and authentic cultural encounters on this unforgettable adventure for trekkers seeking solitude, raw nature, and true Himalayan exploration in eastern Nepal.

Explore the pristine Barun Valley, dense forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes beneath Mount Makalu.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 19 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Kathmandu, Khandbari, Makalu
Languages English, Hindi, Nepali

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Briefing

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and meet the local team.
  • Transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.
  • Attend a detailed trip briefing and prepare for the trek ahead.
2
Day 02

Fly to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num

  • Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar.
  • Drive through green hills, villages, and terraced farmlands to Num.
  • Reach Num, the starting point of the trek.
3
Day 03

Trek to Seduwa via the Arun River

  • Descend to the Arun River.
  • Cross a suspension bridge.
  • Ascend through forests and villages to reach Seduwa.
4
Day 04

Enter Makalu Barun National Park and Trek to Tashi Gaon

  • Enter Makalu Barun National Park.
  • Trek through settlements and terraced fields.
  • Reach Tashi Gaon.
5
Day 05

Climb to Khongma Danda

  • Climb steadily through dense forests and ridges.
  • Enjoy mountain views along the way.
  • Arrive at Khongma Danda.
6
Day 06

Acclimatisation and Ridge Hikes

  • Rest for altitude adjustment.
  • Take short hikes around the ridges for acclimatisation.
  • Enjoy panoramic mountain views.
7
Day 07

Cross Shipton La and Trek to Dobate

  • Cross high passes including Shipton La.
  • Descend through rugged terrain.
  • Reach Dobate.
8
Day 08

Descend into Barun Valley to Yangle Kharka

  • Descend into Barun Valley.
  • Walk alongside rivers and alpine landscapes.
  • Reach Yangle Kharka.
9
Day 09

Ascend to Langmale Kharka

  • Ascend gradually through yak pastures.
  • Enter glacial terrain.
  • Enjoy Himalayan mountain views.
  • Reach Langmale Kharka.
10
Day 10

Trek to Makalu Base Camp

  • Trek through dramatic Himalayan landscapes.
  • Reach Makalu Base Camp.
  • Enjoy glacier and mountain views surrounding Mount Makalu.
11
Day 11

Explore Makalu Base Camp

  • Explore the Makalu Base Camp area.
  • Hike to viewpoints for close-up views of Mount Makalu (8463m).
  • Spend time enjoying the Himalayan surroundings.
12
Day 12

Return to Yangle Kharka

  • Descend through alpine valleys and rivers.
  • Walk through forested terrain.
  • Reach Yangle Kharka.
13
Day 13

Trek Along the Barun River to Dobate

  • Trek along the Barun River through scenic trails.
  • Ascend gradually towards Dobate, passing lush forests and alpine terrain.
  • Enjoy panoramic mountain views along the route before reaching Dobate.
14
Day 14

Cross Three High Passes to Khongma Danda

  • Cross three high passes.
  • Ascend and descend through alpine meadows and forests.
  • Reach Khongma Danda.
15
Day 15

Descend to Seduwa

  • Begin a long descent through dense forests and traditional villages.
  • Continue trekking back into the lower Himalayan region.
  • Reach Seduwa and settle in for an overnight stay.
16
Day 16

Trek to Num and Drive to Khadbari

  • Take a short trek to Num.
  • Drive through hills and rural settlements to Khadbari.
17
Day 17

Fly Back to Kathmandu

  • Drive to Tumlingtar after breakfast.
  • Take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
  • Transfer to the hotel and relax after the journey.
18
Day 18

Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage Sightseeing

  • Enjoy a guided tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Visit Swayambhunath Stupa and explore its spiritual surroundings.
  • Visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu shrines.
  • Visit Boudhanath Stupa, a major centre of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
19
Day 19

Final Departure from Kathmandu

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.

  • Depart with unforgettable memories of the Makalu Base Camp adventure.

Makalu Base Camp, Barun Valley rivers and alpine meadows, Shipton La passes

Where this trip takes you

Makalu Base Camp, Barun Valley rivers and alpine meadows, Shipton La passes

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 3 cities · 19 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • 3 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast and tax
  • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea or coffee during the trek
  • Accommodation in a lodge or tea house during the trek on a shared basis
  • Guide and porter's wages, food, accommodation, and insurance during the trek
  • Airfare Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu, including the guide
  • Staff transfers both ways
  • Airport transfers
  • Guide and transfer for city sightseeing
  • Entrance fees
  • All government and local taxes

What's Not Included

  • Cold and hard drinks and water
  • Food in KTM
  • Travel insurance, emergency evacuation, and personal medical expenses
  • Any donations along the trail and anything that is not mentioned above
  • Staff tips

What to bring

  • Proper trekking boots
  • Warm clothing
  • A reliable backpack
  • A basic first aid kit

Know before you go

  • Stay fit and prepared by building physical fitness through cardio, strength training, and regular hiking to improve stamina for the trek.
  • Acclimatise properly, as altitude is a key factor in the Makalu region, and follow a gradual ascent with rest days.
  • Understand altitude sickness symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness, and follow guide instructions for safety.
  • Complete a health check-up before the trip to ensure a safe trekking experience.
  • Eat well and stay hydrated throughout the trek to maintain energy and support acclimatisation.
  • Be mentally prepared for a physically demanding journey, and stay positive and patient on the trail.
  • Carry the right gear, including proper trekking boots, warm clothing, and a reliable backpack for comfort and safety.
  • Understand weather conditions, as they can change quickly in the Himalayas, and pack accordingly.
  • Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a basic first aid kit, while guides carry full medical supplies.
  • Ensure all permits and documents are arranged properly for a smooth trekking experience.
  • Respect local culture and traditions, and follow guidance from local communities and guides.
  • Travel responsibly by minimising waste and protecting the natural environment of the Makalu region.
  • Maintain a steady pace while trekking to support acclimatisation and reduce fatigue.
  • Stay flexible, as mountain conditions may change due to weather or trail situations.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tridevi Sadak, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 19 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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Estimated room rates

Single Room $2,600.00 — $2,700.00
Double Sharing $2,600.00 — $2,700.00

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