Why didn't AlpineTrav Include the price in the package?

Price for the trip:

• The trip cost always depends on group size, hotel accommodation category and client’s desire budget
• The included itinerary is a guideline and standard pattern which AlpineTrav you. This trekking itinerary can be modified according to your time and requirements
• The itinerary shall be changed after an understanding between both AlpineTrav and the client. Additional activities could be either added or reduced as per client’s request before the trip confirmation
• Price shall be adjusted in our mutual understanding, if the client intends to add some services we shall charge him/ her for those additional services and if he/she intends to lessen some services, we shall wave the charges accordingly
• The itinerary is published in full board services for the better understanding to the client. Among many options such as hotel facilities in Kathmandu and Pokhara, the client can make his/her own choice
• The cost is also affected by the number of employees‒ guides and porters
• Please contact us for any information about in your selected package.

Nepal Visa Information

Visa on Arrival: Most nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
Visa Fees: A 15-day multiple-entry visa costs USD 30, a 30-day visa costs USD 50, and a 90-day visa costs USD 125.
Application Process: Visitors should fill out a visa application form, which is available online or at the airport, and provide a passport-sized photo and payment in cash.
Requirements: A valid passport with at least six months remaining validity and a blank page for the visa stamp is required. Ensure you carry sufficient USD cash for the visa fee as not all payment methods are accepted.

Useful Information

For your information, international flights and Nepal’s “entry visa fee” are not included. Rooms are usually shared by two people unless you request a private room. So if you want to upgrade to better hotels in the cities, please contact us for your customized services.

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 18-20 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)

1. Drive, Tumlingtar to Num: 27km
2. Num to Seduwa: 15km
3. Seduwa to Tashi Goan: 10km
4. Tashi Goan to Khongma Danda: 12km
5. Khongma Danda to Mumbuk: 14km
6. Mumbuk to Nehe Karka: 13km
7. Nehe Karka to Sherson: 12km
8. Sherson to Makalu Base Camp: 12km
9. Makalu Base Camp to Yangre Kharka: 16km
10. Yangre Kharka to Mumbuk: 16km
11. Mumbuk to Khongma Ridge: 14km
12. Khongma Ridge to Seduwa: 20km
13. Seduwa to Num: 15km
14. Drive, Num to Tumlingtar: 27km

Location and history of the Makalu BC 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 right 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 BC 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 required for Makalu BC 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:

• National Park Conservation Area Permit: NPR 3,000 per person.
• Information Management System (TIMS) card: NPR 2,000 per person.

What preparations are required 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 15-16 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.

Weather and temperature at Makalu Base Camp

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:

• Winter (December to February): Daytime Temperature -10°C to 5°C): Nighttime Temperature -20°C to -5°C
• Spring (March to May): Daytime Temperature 5°C to 15°C): Nighttime Temperature -5°C to -10°C
• Summer (June to August): Daytime Temperature 10°C to 18°C): Nighttime Temperature 0°C to -5°C
• Autumn (September to November): Daytime Temperature 5°C to 15°C): Nighttime Temperature -5°C to -10°C

Food on the Makalu Base Camp Trek

All meals are included during the trekking period. We will provide three meals a day (B,L,D) during the trek. Since this is a full camping trek, our kitchen crew will serve freshly prepared meals during the trek. We consider hearty and delicious meals as a key component to the overall success of our trip. You can and is encouraged to bring along comfort food which you enjoy eating – chocolates, power bars, dry fruits, candies, other snacks etc. If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know in advance and we will be sure to pass your message to your guide. For a gluten-free diet!!

Accommodation on Makalu Base Camp Trek

In Kathmandu, we manage a three-star hotel offering a bed and breakfast plan on a twin-sharing basis. We can also manage a single room upon your request, but at an extra cost. Likewise, if you prefer more luxurious accommodations, it is also possible, but it costs more. Yet, due to the remote location and the lack of facilities at teahouses or lodges along the trek, trekkers must stay in a tented camp throughout the expedition.

Trekking: Camping

Your accommodation during the trekking period will be fully tented camping. A tent will be provided for every 2 travellers with a foam mattress. In the case of a single, we will arrange a single tent for you by default at no additional cost. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort. Our trekking team will carry all of the tent equipment for your worry-free and easy journey.

Typical day:

Daily wake up calls will be between 6.00 am to 7.00 am while on the trek. The wake-up time and breakfast time will be decided a night before during the briefing time. The time table for each day will entirely depend on your walking duration for that particular day.

After a hearty breakfast, you set off on the day’s walk. Before breakfast, you are required to pack your duffel bag as it will be loaded by the porter while you are having your breakfast. After few hrs, of walk, you stop for lunch mid-day. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and you usually arrive at your destination in time for afternoon tea. The rest of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, to wash your clothes or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days, you will arrive at your destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, you will heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.

Additional information

Other information such as (Insurance, Arrival Instructions, Visa and Passport etc) required for the trip will be provided after your trip confirmation. Please feel free to get in touch with us if you require more information about the trip.

FAQs

To plan a trek and get off to a good start, it’s always a good idea to learn a little more about the area and even catch a few checkpoints. These FAQs will answer your most important question marks and provide tips to plan your trek with confidence. So, let’s get into them.