4.7
We guide you through the remote Makalu Barun National Park to the base of the world's fifth highest peak at 4870 m.
- 18 days
- moderate
- Max 12
region
Makalu
We approach Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest peak at 8,485 meters, through the remote Barun Valley. This route demands physical endurance and careful acclimatization as we ascend from humid subtropic
Good to know
Common questions about Makalu
Direct guidance from our lead guides on permits, logistics, and physical preparation.
What permits do I need for the Makalu region?
To trek in this area, we process the Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and the Sankhuwasabha Rural Municipality entry fee. If you continue toward restricted corridors or adjacent passes, additional local permits may apply. Our team handles all paperwork in Kathmandu before departure.
What is the maximum altitude reached on the Makalu trek?
The main objective for most trekkers is Makalu Base Camp, which sits at 4,870 metres above sea level. Some itineraries include crossing Shipton La at 4,216 metres or traversing higher ridges. We schedule adequate acclimatization days to mitigate the risk of acute mountain sickness.
When are the best months to visit Makalu?
The optimal seasons are spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. During these months, weather conditions are most stable and mountain views are clearest. Winter brings heavy snow to high passes like Shipton La, while summer brings monsoon rains and leeches.
How difficult is the Makalu trek compared to Everest Base Camp?
Makalu is significantly more remote, rugged, and physically demanding than the standard Everest Base Camp route. The daily ascents and descents are steep, and the trail involves crossing high, exposed passes. We recommend this route only for trekkers with prior high-altitude experience and strong cardiovascular fitness.
Are there teahouses along the Makalu route?
Teahouse infrastructure on the Makalu trek is much more basic and sparse compared to the Khumbu or Annapurna regions. Facilities consist of simple local lodges with shared amenities, and availability drops during peak months. Our expeditions often carry supplementary camping gear to ensure reliable shelter and meals.
How many days does the Makalu trek take?
A standard itinerary from Tumlingtar to Makalu Base Camp and back takes approximately 20 to 22 days of actual walking. This duration includes essential acclimatization days and travel time from Kathmandu. Contact our Kathmandu office to review our detailed day-by-day route profile.
Overview
About Makalu
We approach Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest peak at 8,485 meters, through the remote Barun Valley. This route demands physical endurance and careful acclimatization as we ascend from humid subtropical forests into the high alpine terrain of Makalu Barun National Park. Every trekker requires a restricted area permit for the Makalu region alongside standard national park entry documentation, ensuring our groups travel responsibly through these protected ecosystems.
The journey takes us past isolated Sherpa settlements like Tashigaon and onto demanding high altitude crossings including Shipton La and Tutu La. We witness dramatic granite faces and hanging glaciers beneath peaks such as Chamlang and Baruntse. For this strenuous itinerary, we strictly operate during the pre-monsoon spring months of March to May and the post-monsoon autumn window from October to November, when weather conditions offer the most reliable visibility for high mountain passes.
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