Max. Elevation
Overview
Makalu Base Camp and High Passes Trek – 22 Days
Experience one of Nepal’s most remote and spectacular trekking adventures with Alpinist Club. This 22-day journey takes you through traditional mountain villages, dense rhododendron forests, high Himalayan passes, glacial valleys, and pristine alpine lakes to the foot of Mount Makalu (8,485 m), the world’s fifth-highest mountain.
The trek begins with a scenic flight to Tumlingtar and a drive to Num before following the trails through Seduwa, Tashigaon, and Kongma Danda. Cross Shipton La and Keke La, explore the magnificent Barun Valley, and reach Makalu Base Camp at approximately 4,850 m. A challenging excursion to Makalu Patthar offers breathtaking views of Makalu and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The return journey follows remote trails through high-altitude pastures, hidden lakes, rugged mountain terrain, and traditional settlements near the Nepal–China border. With its diverse landscapes, rich local culture, and quieter trails, this trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking an adventurous alternative to Nepal’s more popular routes.
Makalu Base Camp, Kalo Pokhari, Tin Pokhari & Popti La Pass Trek – 22 Days
Day | Itinerary | Altitude |
|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,300 m |
Day 2 | Sightseeing and trek preparation in Kathmandu | 1,300 m |
Day 3 | Flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to Num | 1,500 m |
Day 4 | Trek from Num to Seduwa | 1,670 m |
Day 5 | Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon | 2,100 m |
Day 6 | Trek from Tashigaon to Kongma Danda Camp | 3,580 m |
Day 7 | Trek from Kongma Danda to Dobato via Shipton La (4,250 m) and Keke La (4,180 m) | 3,860 m |
Day 8 | Trek from Dobato to Yangri Kharka | 3,660 m |
Day 9 | Trek from Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka | 4,430 m |
Day10 | Trek from Langmale Kharka to Makalu Base Camp | 4,850 m |
Day 11 | Hike from Makalu Base Camp to Makalu Patthar and return to base camp | 5,795 m |
Day 12 | Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka | 3,530 m |
Day 13 | Trek from Yangri Kharka to Korlangue Kharka | 4,095 m |
Day 14 | Trek from Korlangue Kharka to Kalo Pokhari Camp | 4,145 m |
Day 15 | Trek from Kalo Pokhari Camp to Kholakharka Camp | 3,200 m |
Day 16 | Trek from Kholakharka Camp to Tin Pokhari Camp | 3,910 m |
Day 17 | Trek from Tin Pokhari Camp to Bakhim Kharka via Popti La and Molun Pokhari | 3,260 m |
Day 18 | Trek from Bakhim Kharka to Hongong | 2,340 m |
Day 19 | Trek from Hongong to Barun Dovan | 1,100 m |
Day 20 | Drive from Barun Dovan to Tumlingtar via Num and Khadbari | Approx. 500 m |
Day 21 | Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu | 1,300 m |
Day 22 | Departure from Kathmandu |
Itinerary
Expand AllUpon arrival in Kathmandu, our team will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, you can relax or explore the vibrant city at your own pace. Depending on your arrival time, you can discover local markets, experience Nepalese culture, and sample traditional cuisine. Later, meet our team for a trek briefing and preparation for your upcoming adventure.
- Transportation: Private vehicle (airport to hotel)
- Altitude: Approximately 1,350 m
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
We take advantage of this moment to take stock with the expedition manager of the equipment taken. If necessary, the numerous mountain equipment shops in Thamel can help you complete our equipment. Meanwhile, our local team is working to complete essential paperwork and climbing permits. Accompanying persons will be able to take tours of Kathmandu.
- Meals: breakfasts – free; lunches (not included) – free; dinners (not included)
- Accommodation: nights at the hotel
Take a scenic domestic flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, enjoying spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges, including Everest, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga. Upon arrival, continue by Jeep along winding roads and rough mountain tracks to Num, a small village overlooking the Arun River valley.
- Transportation: Domestic flight and private Jeep
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Driving Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Driving Distance: Approximately 45 km
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Take a short Jeep ride to the end of the road before beginning your trek. Descend steeply through forest to the Arun River, cross a suspension bridge, and climb through terraced fields and cardamom plantations to reach Seduwa.
- Driving Duration: 30 minutes
- Trekking Duration: 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +950 m / -235 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Follow a peaceful trail through cultivated fields, small settlements, and forested hillsides. The path gradually ascends toward Tashigaon, the last major village before the challenging climb to Kongma Danda.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain: +600 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Today involves a demanding uphill trek through dense forests of rhododendron and other native trees. Climb steadily along a series of switchbacks, passing small settlements and forest clearings before reaching the higher ridge of Kongma Danda. Enjoy the mountain atmosphere and prepare for the high passes ahead.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 8 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,400 m / -50 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Ascend through rhododendron-covered slopes to Shipton La Pass, where magnificent views of the eastern Himalayan peaks, including Chamlang and Makalu, unfold. Descend past the sacred Kalo Pokhari lake before climbing to Keke La Pass. From here, continue downhill through alpine vegetation to Dobato.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +950 m / -630 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Descend through a steep valley toward the Barun Khola, following trails through primary forest and rugged terrain. Cross the river via a wooden bridge and continue along the valley, passing landslide-affected sections and seasonal grazing areas before reaching Yangri Kharka.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +400 m / -600 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Follow the Barun Khola through a dramatic glacial valley, passing pine forests, rocky terrain, and impressive landslide formations. Gradually ascend toward Merek campsite before crossing the rocky riverbed and climbing to Langmale Kharka, a high-altitude grazing area with spectacular mountain scenery.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +800 m / -35 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Continue through alpine pastures and glacial moraines toward Shershong. As you gain elevation, the magnificent northwestern face of Mount Makalu comes into view. Follow the trail along the moraine before descending to Makalu Base Camp, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks and glaciers. If conditions permit, take a short walk to a nearby glacial lake in the afternoon.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +520 m / -100 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Spend the day exploring the high-altitude surroundings of Makalu Base Camp. Climb toward the eastern moraine and continue to Makalu Patthar for spectacular panoramic views of Makalu, its surrounding glaciers, and neighboring Himalayan giants. Return to base camp for a second night.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,000 m / -1,000 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Begin the descent from Makalu Base Camp, enjoying views of the glacial lake and the surrounding mountain landscape. Pass through Langmale Kharka and follow the Barun Khola downhill, retracing the route through alpine meadows and rocky terrain to Yangri Kharka.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +100 m / -1,400 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent or lodge
Retrace part of the trail along the Barun Khola before navigating rugged riverbanks, sandy gullies, and rocky slopes. Continue through dense bamboo and primary forest, with occasional steep ascents and descents. Finally, reach the remote Korlangue Kharka valley, where you will camp beside a mountain stream.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +600 m / -50 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Ascend through rhododendron and thorny vegetation, cross open grasslands, and traverse rocky slopes toward a high mountain pass. Enjoy panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas, including the Kangchenjunga massif and Mount Jannu. Descend through yak pastures into the remote Kalo Pokhari lake area and establish camp near a water source.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +580 m / -530 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Navigate remote mountain terrain beneath towering rocky peaks, crossing narrow ridges and potentially icy gullies. Descend steeply along exposed slopes and avalanche channels toward the Saldim Khola. After crossing the river, climb through pristine forest to reach the broad meadows of Kholakharka, a peaceful campsite surrounded by wilderness.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 7 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +520 m / -1,520 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Follow a gradually ascending trail toward the confluence of the Kholakharka Khola and Dungge Khola. Continue north through remote highland terrain toward the Popti La area, passing open plateaus and scattered mountain lakes. Reach Tin Pokhari, meaning “Three Lakes” in Nepali, where you will camp in a beautiful alpine setting.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +900 m / -200 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Explore one of the most remote sections of the trek, following yak trails and shepherds' paths across rocky ridges and lake-filled plateaus. Cross the Popti La area near the Nepal–China border and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Continue past Molun Pokhari before descending steeply to Bakhim Kharka, where your support team will be waiting.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +650 m / -1,300 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Descend through peaceful pine and rhododendron forests to Hongong, a traditional settlement in the remote Arun Valley region. After arrival, enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring the village and learning about local Tibetan-influenced culture and mountain life.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +40 m / -960 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Continue downhill through rural landscapes, terraced farmland, and traditional villages overlooking the Arun Khola valley. Follow a mixture of broad trails and narrow hillside paths, enjoying a final day of trekking through the lower Himalayan foothills before reaching Barun Dovan.
- Trekking Duration: Approximately 8 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +700 m / -1,790 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
Meet your Jeep at Barun Dovan and travel along the mountain track toward Num. Continue by road through Khadbari before descending to Tumlingtar, where you will spend the night near the airport in preparation for your return flight to Kathmandu.
- Transportation: Private Jeep
- Driving Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Driving Distance: Approximately 70 km
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
Transfer to Tumlingtar Airport for your scenic domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy one final aerial view of the Himalayan ranges before arriving in the capital. Transfer to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day relaxing or exploring the city.
- Transportation: Domestic flight and private vehicle
- Flight Duration: Approximately 35 minutes
- Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner not included
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Enjoy your final morning in Kathmandu, depending on your flight schedule. A private vehicle will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight home, bringing your Makalu Base Camp and High Passes Trek to an end.
- Transportation: Private vehicle and international flight
- Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner not included
- Accommodation: Not included
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.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
Airport Transfers : Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle in Kathmandu.
Hotel Accommodation : Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
Domestic Flights : Kathmandu–Tumlingtar and Tumlingtar–Kathmandu flights.
Ground Transportation : Private Jeep or vehicle transfers between Tumlingtar, Num, Barun Dovan, and other scheduled points, as applicable.
Trekking Permits : Applicable Makalu-Barun National Park entry permit and other required permits.
Accommodation During the Trek : Teahouses, local lodges, guesthouses, and camping arrangements according to the route and availability.
Meals During the Trek : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days, as specified in the final package.
Professional Trekking Guide : Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide.
Porter Service : Porters to carry trekking baggage, according to the agreed porter-to-trekker ratio and baggage allowance.
Trekking Staff Expenses : Guide and porter wages, meals, accommodation, insurance, and transportation.
Camping Equipment : Essential group camping equipment where required, including tents and kitchen equipment.
Camping Kitchen Team : Experienced cook and kitchen staff to prepare hygienic, freshly cooked meals during camping sections of the trek, including the necessary kitchen equipment, utensils, and cooking supplies.
Welcome Dinner : Welcome dinner in Kathmandu, if included in the confirmed package.
Government Taxes : Applicable government taxes and service charges
Excluded Points
International Flights : International airfare to and from Nepal.
Nepal Visa Fees : Visa fees are payable upon arrival in Nepal.
Travel Insurance : Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical expenses, emergency rescue, and helicopter evacuation.
Meals in Kathmandu : Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, except meals specifically included in the itinerary.
Personal Expenses : Snacks, beverages, bottled or boiled water where charged separately, hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and laundry.
Personal Trekking Equipment : Trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and other personal gear.
Additional Accommodation : Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, flight delays, or itinerary changes.
Tips and Gratuities : Tips for trekking guides, porters, kitchen staff, and drivers.
Additional Transportation : Transportation costs arising from unforeseen circumstances or changes outside the agreed itinerary.
Extra Services : Additional guides, porters, accommodation, or other services not specified in the package.
Unforeseen Expenses : Additional costs caused by bad weather, natural disasters, flight cancellations, illness, or other circumstances beyond the company's control.