Makalu Base Camp Trek

How Difficult Is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Well, it isn’t easy. The Makalu Base Camp trek is among the most challenging treks of Nepal and has more than 250 km of distance. Compared to other base camp treks like Everest and Annapurna, this particular trek needs a lot of preparation and a muscular physique. However, there’s no need for climbing gears and mountaineering skills. Any climbing skills required for the dangerous part will be taught by our guide before the trek.

The elevation of the Makalu trek is also 4810 meters, and the chances of altitude sickness at such a height are severe. You need to add acclimatization days to your Itinerary and walk very slowly. Being dehydrated and loaded with carbs is important for a successful Makalu Trek. Other than altitude and distance, the hardest part of the Makalu Base Camp trek is its remoteness. Once you reach the higher altitude, you barely see any villages and meet people.

Trip Grade: Fitness level, Medical, and health

The Makalu Base Camp trek is a challenging adventure that demands good physical fitness and endurance. Trekkers can expect difficulty walking moderately for around six to eight hours daily, often on rugged terrain. The altitude can rise to 5000 meters, posing challenges for some individuals.

One of the key differences between this Makalu Trek and the more moderate ones is the longer trekking days. This means that trekkers should be prepared for more strenuous activity and have a good endurance level.

Trekkers must be in good health and physical condition before starting this journey. Those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease are advised against attempting this trek without consulting a doctor first. Altitude sickness is a real concern, and being in good health can help mitigate its associated risks.

In addition to physical fitness, mental preparedness is also important. The Makalu Base Camp trek can be mentally challenging due to its length, altitude, and terrain. Trekkers should be prepared for long days and be able to cope with the physical and mental demands of the journey.

Altitude Sickness in Makalu Trek

Altitude sickness is a big worry when trekking to Makalu Base Camp trek. Before going to higher places, ensure you’re used to the altitude. It’s wise to climb slowly and take breaks to get used to the height. If you start feeling sick, like a headache or dizziness, it’s crucial to go down to a lower place and see a doctor.

Before you go to Nepal, it’s a good idea to get vaccinated for diseases like hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies. Also, make sure you’ve had all your regular vaccinations.

You can get sick from water and food at Makalu Circuit trek, so it’s best to drink only boiled or bottled water and eat food that’s cooked well. It’s also a good idea to bring water purification tablets or a filter in case you can’t find boiled or bottled water.

Climbing Experience for Makalu Circuit Trek

When climbing the Makalu Barun trek, having some climbing experience can be helpful. Makalu Circuit Trek is a challenging trek, and having some hiking experience and basic climbing skills can make it easier. It’s good to be comfortable walking for long hours each day and be prepared for rugged terrain.

If you’ve climbed other mountains before or done challenging hikes, you’ll feel more confident on this trek. However, even if you’re new to climbing, as long as you’re in good physical shape and ready to take on the challenge, you can still enjoy the adventure of reaching the Makalu Base Camp trek. Take it slow, listen to your guide, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Emergency and evacuation at Makalu Base Camp Trek

In case of emergencies at the Makalu circuit trek, there are limited options for evacuation. Helicopter rescue is the primary means of evacuation, but it can be expensive and depends on weather conditions. It’s crucial to have travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation to ensure you can get help if needed. Contact the local authorities or your trekking agency immediately if you need emergency assistance. Always follow safety guidelines and be prepared for emergencies by carrying a fully charged phone, first-aid kit, and emergency contact information. The trekking agency will arrange an evacuation helicopter, but you must pay for it with the insurance cost.

Kit and equipment for Makalu Trek

When getting ready for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, it’s crucial to pack the right gear since you’ll be in a remote area with limited supply access. Here’s a simple list of things to bring:

1. Clothes: Pack warm and waterproof clothing like a down jacket, thermal underwear, fleece, and rain gear. Also, bring comfortable trekking clothes, a hat, gloves, and a scarf.
2. Footwear: Bring sturdy trekking boots, socks, and gaiters to keep your feet warm and dry.
3. Sleeping gear: A warm sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and tent for camping.
4. First aid kit: Include basics like pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatment.
5. Personal hygiene items: Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.
6. Backpack: Carry a good quality backpack with at least 50 liters capacity.
7. Hydration gear: Bring a water bottle or hydration bladder and a water purification system.
8. Food and snacks: Pack non-perishable food like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit, along with a lightweight stove for cooking.
9. Navigation gear: Carry a map, compass, and GPS device for navigation.

Pack light, but have everything you need for a safe and comfortable trek!

Special training

Special training for the Makalu trek should focus on building physical fitness and endurance. You can start with regular aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, or cycling to improve your stamina. Strength training exercises for your legs, core, and upper body will help you cope with the Makalu Circuit Trek demands.

It’s important to gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to prepare your body for the long trekking days. Practicing hiking with a backpack is also beneficial, as it will help you get used to carrying a load during the Makalu Barun National Park trek.

Additionally, altitude training can be helpful if you have access to high-altitude areas. This can help your body acclimatize to the reduced oxygen levels you’ll encounter at higher altitudes during the Makalu base camp Sherpani Col trek.

Best Time for Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu Base Camp Trek can be enjoyed at different times of the year, depending on your preference and your situation. Here’s a more detailed look at the two best times to trek to Makalu Base Camp trek:

Spring (March to May)

This season offers clear skies and warm weather, making it an excellent time for the trek. The rhododendron forests along the Makalu Circuit Trek are in full bloom, adding color to the landscape. The days are sunny and mild, which makes walking more comfortable. The overall conditions are perfect for completing the trek with ease.

Autumn (September to November)

Another excellent time for the Makalu Barun trek is autumn. By this time, the monsoon season is over, so the skies are clear and dry. The temperatures are moderate, and the nights are cool, which helps with acclimatization to the high altitude. The views of the surrounding peaks are stunning and unobstructed, making it the ideal time for photography and enjoying the scenery.

It’s important to remember that the Makalu Base Camp Trek is quite challenging and requires good physical fitness and preparation. While you can trek year-round, it’s crucial to consider the weather conditions and your circumstances and preferences. Each season has unique charm and challenges, so choose the time that best suits your preferences and abilities.

Weather Information of Makalu Barun Trek

The weather at Makalu Base Camp trek can vary depending on the season. Generally, the best time to trek to Makalu Base Camp is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is stable and precise.

During the spring season, the temperatures at Makalu trek are mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). However, temperatures can drop significantly at night, sometimes below freezing.

In the autumn season, the weather is similar to spring, with mild daytime temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) and cold nights. The skies are usually apparent during the day, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

During the summer monsoon season (June to August), the weather at the Makalu Circuit trek can be unpredictable, with frequent rainfall and cloudy skies. Trekking during this time is not recommended due to the risk of landslides and poor visibility.

In the winter season (December to February), temperatures at Makalu Base Camp trek can drop significantly, often below freezing. Snowfall is expected during this time, making trekking more challenging.

Makalu base camp trek permit

You’ll need two Makalu base camp trek permit to enter the area to trek to Makalu Base Camp in Nepal. The first one is called the Makalu Barun Conservation Area Permit, essential for accessing the base camp. The other permit required is the Makalu Rural Municipality Permit. These permits also come with entrance fees that you’ll need to pay. While getting these Makalu base camp trek permit might seem like a hassle, if you book your trek through a trekking agency, they can take care of all the paperwork for you, so you don’t need to worry.

The cost of the Makalu base camp trek permit varies depending on your nationality. For Nepalese citizens, it’s NPR 100 per person; for SAARC citizens, it’s NPR 1500 per person; and for citizens of other countries, it’s NPR 3000 per person. Additionally, the Makalu Rural Municipality Permit costs NPR 2000 per person.

Accommodation and food during the trip

Due to the high altitudes of the Makalu Base Camp Trek, it’s essential to fuel your body with enough nutrition and carbohydrates to support your walking. Here’s a rundown of the typical food options you can expect along the way:

Breakfast

You can enjoy a variety of options, including pancakes, oatmeal, muesli, different types of eggs (like omelets, poached, and boiled), and various breads such as fried Tibetan bread, buckwheat bread, and chapattis. These are often served with honey or jam and sometimes with apples.

Lunches

For lunch, you’ll find universal dal bhat (a traditional Nepali dish consisting of rice and lentil soup), soups, spaghetti, dumplings, pizza, spring rolls, and more. You can also choose from sandwiches, macaroni, tendu (a type of noodle soup), spaghetti noodles, thukpa (a Tibetan noodle soup), pasta, and pizza with various toppings like tomato, mushroom, and mixed.

Dinners

Dinner options include dal bhat and tarkari (a vegetable curry), Tibetan bread, different soups, Sherpa stew, sandwiches, dumplings, macaroni, tenduk, noodles, thukpa, pasta, vegetable curry, and salad.

Accommodation during the trek is typically provided in local teahouses or lodges. These are basic but comfortable places to rest and recharge. You’ll usually find twin- or triple-bedded rooms with shared bathroom facilities. The teahouses and lodges offer basic amenities like hot showers (for an extra fee), electricity from solar panels, and sometimes Wi-Fi (though it can be unreliable). They also serve basic meals, snacks, and drinks for purchase.

It’s important to note that facilities can vary along the trail, and you should be prepared for a more rustic experience, especially at higher altitudes. Nights can be cold, so bring warm clothing. Camping is an option if you’re looking for a more immersive experience. This allows you to get closer to nature but requires more preparation as you’ll need to bring your gear and food.

Electricity and battery recharge, water during the trek

You’ll find electricity during your trek at the teahouses where you stay overnight. They use micro-hydropower and solar panels to generate electricity, and you can recharge your devices like phones, laptops, or iPads there for a small fee. However, there’s no free Wi-Fi available along the trekking trail, so it’s not recommended to bring your laptop.

When trekking to Makalu Base Camp, you’ll stay in teahouses overnight. These places have electricity thanks to micro-hydropower and solar panels. That means you can charge your gadgets like phones or iPads while you rest. But remember, you might have to pay a little fee to use the charging facilities.

As for Wi-Fi, you won’t find any free hotspots along the trekking path. So, it’s better not to bring your laptop, as there’s no free internet access. Some teahouses might have Wi-Fi, but you must pay for it. However, expect it to be something other than super-fast because you’re in a remote area.

Roads on The Circuit and How to Avoid Them

The Makalu Base Camp circuit doesn’t have roads like we see in cities. Instead, the trekking route takes you through rugged terrain and remote areas. However, there are some areas where you might come across rough paths or trails used by locals. These paths are unsuitable for vehicles and are used primarily for walking or carrying goods.

To avoid these paths and enjoy a more peaceful trekking experience, you can choose alternative routes or trails that are less traveled. These routes might be longer or more challenging but offer a more authentic and remote trekking experience.

Another way to avoid roads is to plan your trek during the off-season when fewer trekkers are on the trail. This way, you can enjoy the area’s natural beauty without the crowds and distractions.

It’s also a good idea to research and talk to local guides or trekking agencies to get advice on the best routes to avoid roads. They can provide valuable insights and help you plan a memorable and road-free trekking adventure in the Makalu Base Camp region.

With Himalayan Masters

Booking/Airport Pickup

Himalayan Masters provides a straightforward booking process for your trekking adventure. You can easily book your trek online through their website or contact them directly via email or phone. Once your booking is confirmed, they offer a convenient airport pickup service. Their friendly staff will greet you at the airport and ensure a smooth transfer to your accommodation in Kathmandu.

Support Team

Himalayan Masters is known for its exceptional support team: experienced guides, porters, and staff members. These professionals are dedicated to ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your trek. The guides are knowledgeable about the region and its culture, providing valuable insights. The porters are responsible for carrying your luggage, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek.

Starting Point/Ending Point

The starting point of your trek with Himalayan Masters depends on your specific trekking package. Most tours begin in Kathmandu, where you will meet your guide and prepare for the journey ahead. From Kathmandu, you will travel to the trek’s starting point by road or flight, depending on the trekking destination. The ending point of the trek is usually the same as the starting point, where you will be transferred back to Kathmandu.

A typical day on the trek

Every morning during the trek, our guide or porter will bring you tea or coffee around 6:30 a.m. After freshening up, you’ll have time to pack your bag before breakfast.

Breakfast is usually served around 7 a.m. Before starting the trek, take 5 minutes to stretch and warm up. Then, expect to walk for 45 minutes to 1 hour before taking a 5-minute rest. The walk continued for about 2 to 3 hours until we reached the lunch spot.

Lunchtime is generally around 12 – 1 p.m. and lasts 45 minutes. Lunch and a cup of tea or coffee are served quickly from the menu. After lunch, there’s usually another 2-3 hours of walking before reaching our camp or lodge. You can rest before dinner, and our guide and porter will bring tea to your room. We recommend ordering dinner before 5 p.m., and you can choose when to have dinner with the team.

Our guide may suggest visiting local settlements to learn about their culture or relax by taking a shower or reading a book.

Enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayan mountains daily, discover mountain villages, and capture amazing photos and videos.

Climbing Costs for Makalu Circuit Trek

Climbing costs for Makalu Base Camp can vary depending on the season, the route chosen, and whether you’re part of an organized expedition or climbing independently. Generally, you can expect the Makalu base camp trek cost to include permits, which are expensive for peaks like Makalu. There are also Makalu base camp trek cost for guides, equipment, food, and accommodation.

The Makalu region ranks as a restricted trekking zone of Nepal and needs a special permit to visit. That means, along with the Restricted Area Special Permit, you will also need a licensed guide and a group of at least two people (no independent trekking). This adds a significant amount to your Makalu base camp trek cost. It’s also very long and remote trekking, making it even more expensive. Makalu base camp trek solo is not possible.

The Makalu base camp trek in Nepal costs about $3000 to $3500. Finding how difficult it is to get food and bed on such remote land, you will realize that the price is entirely justified. The Himalayan Master’s have arranged the cheapest package of $2400 per person.

Insurance

Insurance is a crucial aspect of climbing the Makalu Base Camp trek. It’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and mountaineering activities. Travel insurance is necessary for treks like the one to Makalu trek. Here are some things to think about when you’re getting travel insurance for this trek.

First, make sure your insurance covers medical expenses, especially emergency evacuation. Since the trek is in a remote area, there aren’t many medical facilities around, so you might need to be evacuated if something happens.

Second, check if your insurance covers trip cancellations in case something unexpected comes up, like a natural disaster or personal emergency. Also, see if it covers lost or stolen gear and any adventure sports you might do during the Makalu Circuit Trek.

Make sure your insurance provides 24/7 assistance so you can get help whenever you need it, whether it’s medical advice or emergency support. It’s a good idea to carry a copy of your insurance policy and contact information during the Makalu Barun National Park trek.

Additional Expenses

In addition to climbing costs and insurance, there are several other expenses to consider when planning a trip to Makalu Base Camp trek. These can include gear rental or purchase, essential for the challenging terrain and high altitude. You’ll also need to budget for food and accommodation along the trekking route and any permits or fees for entering the national park. It’s also wise to budget for souvenirs or additional activities you might want to do along the way. Planning these expenses can help you budget more effectively and avoid unexpected costs during your trip.

ATMs in Makalu Circuit Trek

While there are no ATMs along the trekking route to Makalu Barun trek, you can withdraw cash in Kathmandu before starting your Makalu Trek. It’s essential to carry enough money to cover your expenses along the way, including food, accommodation, and any other purchases you might make. Some lodges along the route may accept credit cards, but it’s always best to have cash as a backup. It’s also good to inform your bank of your travel plans to ensure your cards are used abroad.