Makalu Base Camp and Everything you need to know about it
Makalu Base Camp is located at an altitude of 4,870 meters (15,977 feet) and offers stunning views of the world's fifth-highest mountain, Makalu (8,485 meters or 27,838 feet)
Follow the Step-by-Step Guideline:
Step 1: Obtain the Necessary Permits
Step 2: Hire a Trekking Guide or Porter
Step 4: Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar:
Step 5: Drive from Tumlingtar to Num:
Step 6: Trek from Num to Seduwa:
Step 7: Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaon:
Step 8: Trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma La:
Step 9: Trek from Khongma La to Mumbuk:
Step 10: Trek from Mumbuk to Yangle Kharka:
Step 11: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Makalu Base Camp:
Makalu Base Camp and Everything you need to know about it - Verdict
Kanchenjunga Base Camp is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers stunning views of one of the world's highest peaks. With proper preparation and planning, you can have an unforgettable adventure trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp.
Key Facts about Makalu Base Camp:
Here are some key facts about Makalu Base Camp:
- Location: Eastern Nepal
- Altitude: 4,870 meters (15,977 feet)
- Mountain Views: Offers stunning views of Makalu (8,485 meters or 27,838 feet) and other peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, and Chamlang
- Trek duration: 16-20 days
- Best time to visit: Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May)
- Permits: Makalu Barun National Park Permit and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Accommodation: Basic tea houses and lodges in some villages, camping gear required for higher altitudes
- Altitude sickness: Common problem, proper acclimatization is important
- Highlights: Diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, oak forests, and endangered species such as the red panda and snow leopard.
Follow the Step-by-Step Guideline:
Makalu Base Camp is a remote and challenging trekking destination that offers stunning views of one of the world's highest peaks. The region is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity, and the trek takes trekkers through several small villages and tea houses.
If you are planning to trek to Makalu Base Camp, here is a step-by-step guideline to help you plan and prepare for your trip:
Step 1: Obtain the Necessary Permits
To trek to Makalu Base Camp, you need to obtain two permits:
- Makalu Barun National Park Permit: This permit is issued by the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area Project (MBNPCA). All trekkers must have this permission to enter Makalu Barun National Park. You can obtain this permit from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the MBNPCA office in the town of Hille, which is on the way to the trailhead.
- Information management system for trekkers card (TIMS): TIMS is a database of trekkers’ information that helps to ensure their safety and security while trekking in Nepal. All trekkers, including those trekking to Makalu Base Camp, need to obtain a TIMS card. You can obtain this card from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) office in Kathmandu.
You will need to provide your passport, two passport-size photographs, and the necessary fees to obtain these permits. It is recommended to obtain these permits at least a day before you start your trek to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Step 2: Hire a Trekking Guide or Porter
While it is possible to trek to Makalu Base Camp independently, hiring a trekking guide or porter can make the trek easier and more enjoyable. Here are some benefits of hiring a guide or porter:
- Local knowledge and experience: A local guide or porter has extensive knowledge and experience of the region, including the trail, the weather, and the culture. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate any challenges along the way.
- Safety and security: A guide or porter can ensure your safety and security by assisting in case of any accidents, illnesses, or emergencies. They can also help you acclimatize properly and avoid altitude sickness.
- Comfort and convenience: A porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek with a lighter load and reducing the risk of fatigue. A guide can also arrange for your accommodation, meals, and transportation, making your trek more comfortable and convenient.
- Support the local economy: Hiring a guide or porter supports the local economy and helps to create jobs for the local community.
If you decide to hire a guide or porter, make sure to choose a licensed and experienced professional. You can hire a guide or porter through a trekking agency or independent arrangements. The cost of hiring a guide or porter varies depending on the duration of the trek and the services provided, but it is generally reasonable and negotiable.
Step 3: Gear up for Makalu Base Camp
Trekking to Makalu Base Camp requires proper gear and equipment to ensure your safety and comfort along the way. Here are some essential items you should pack for the trek:
- Clothing: Dress in layers and bring warm clothing suitable for cold and wet weather. Essential items include thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, a down jacket, a waterproof and windproof jacket and pants, a hat, gloves, and warm socks.
- Footwear: Bring sturdy and waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support to protect your feet and provide traction on slippery terrain. Don't forget to break them in before the trek to avoid blisters.
- Backpack: Choose a comfortable backpack with a capacity of at least 50 liters to carry your essentials, including water, snacks, and extra layers of clothing.
- Sleeping bag: Bring a good quality sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures to ensure a good night's sleep.
- Headlamp: A headlamp with extra batteries is essential for navigating in the dark and for reading at night.
- Water bottle and purification tablets: Carry a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets to avoid buying bottled water and to reduce your environmental impact.
- First-aid kit: Bring a basic first-aid kit that includes essentials such as band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic cream.
- Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help reduce the impact on your knees and provide stability on steep and rocky terrain.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Protect your skin and eyes from the sun's harmful rays by using sunscreen and wearing sunglasses with UV protection.
- Remember to pack light and only bring the essentials to avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
Gear Up Cost Breakdown:
The cost of gearing up for a trek to Makalu Base Camp can vary depending on the quality and brand of the equipment you choose. Here's a breakdown of the estimated cost for essential items:
- Clothing:
- Thermal underwear: $20-$50
- Fleece jacket: $30-$70
- Down jacket: $100-$300
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants: $100-$250
- Hat: $10-$30
- Gloves: $10-$50
- Warm socks: $10-$30 per pair
- Footwear:
- Sturdy hiking boots: $80-$200
- Backpack:
- Comfortable backpack (50-70 liters): $80-$250
- Sleeping bag:
- Good quality sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures: $100-$400
- Headlamp:
- Headlamp with extra batteries: $20-$50
- Water bottle and purification tablets:
- Reusable water bottle: $10-$30
- Water purification tablets: $5-$20
- First-aid kit:
- Basic first-aid kit: $20-$50
- Trekking poles:
- Trekking poles: $30-$100
- Sunscreen and sunglasses:
- Sunscreen: $10-$20
- Sunglasses with UV protection: $20-$100
The total cost of gearing up for a trek to Makalu Base Camp can range from $500 to $1500 or more, depending on the quality and brand of the equipment you choose. Keep in mind that some items, such as trekking poles and a first-aid kit, may be available for rent in Kathmandu or other major cities in Nepal.
Step 4: Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar:
The flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar is the most convenient way to get to Makalu Base Camp. The cost of the flight varies depending on the airline and the season, but it usually ranges between $120 to $200 per person.
Step 5: Drive from Tumlingtar to Num:
After arriving at Tumlingtar, you'll need to take a drive to Num, which is the starting point of the trek. The cost of hiring a private jeep or bus varies depending on the number of people, but it usually costs around USD 150 to USD 250 per vehicle.
Note: The trek from Num to Seduwa is the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp trek.
Step 6: Trek from Num to Seduwa:
The trek from Num to Seduwa takes approximately 6-7 hours, and it's a relatively easy trek. The trail goes through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages.
Step 7: Trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaon:
The trek from Seduwa to Tashi Gaon takes approximately 5-6 hours, and it's a steep uphill climb. The trail goes through dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Step 8: Trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma La:
The trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma La takes approximately 6-7 hours, and it's a steep climb to an altitude of 3,560 meters. The trail goes through rhododendron forests and offers stunning views of Makalu and Chamlang peaks.
Step 9: Trek from Khongma La to Mumbuk:
The trek from Khongma La to Mumbuk takes approximately 5-6 hours, and it's a steep downhill climb. The trail goes through rocky terrain and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Step 10: Trek from Mumbuk to Yangle Kharka:
The trek from Mumbuk to Yangle Kharka takes approximately 6-7 hours, and it's a gradual uphill climb. The trail goes through alpine meadows and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Step 11: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Makalu Base Camp:
The trek from Yangle Kharka to Makalu Base Camp takes approximately 6-7 hours, and it's a gradual uphill climb. The trail goes through rocky terrain and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Best Time to visit Makalu Base Camp:
The best time to visit Makalu Base Camp is during the autumn and spring seasons when the weather is generally stable and clear. Here's a breakdown of the weather and trekking conditions during different seasons:
- Autumn (September-November): This is the most popular time to visit Makalu Base Camp. The trekking conditions are excellent, with clear views of the mountains and the surrounding landscapes.
- Spring (March-May): This is another good time to visit Makalu Base Camp. The weather is mild and dry, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures during the day. The trekking conditions are also good, with colorful rhododendron blooms along the trail.
- Winter (December-February): Trekking to Makalu Base Camp during winter is not recommended as the weather is cold, harsh, and unpredictable. The trails may be covered with snow and ice, making trekking challenging and risky.
- Summer (June-August): The summer season is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity, making trekking to Makalu Base Camp challenging and uncomfortable. The trails may also be slippery and muddy, increasing the risk of accidents.
Overall, the best time to visit Makalu Base Camp is during the autumn and spring seasons when the weather is stable, and the trekking conditions are favorable. It's essential to plan your trek carefully, taking into account the weather and trail conditions, and to be prepared for any changes in the weather.
Makalu Base Camp and Everything you need to know about it - Verdict
Trekking to Makalu Base Camp is a challenging and rewarding experience that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes. It requires a high level of physical fitness, experience, and preparation, but the effort is well worth it.
If you are planning to trek to Makalu Base Camp, it's important to obtain the necessary permits, hire a reliable guide or porter, gear up with high-quality equipment, and plan your trek carefully, taking into account the weather and trail conditions.
The best time to visit Makalu Base Camp is during the autumn and spring seasons, when the weather is stable and clear, and the trekking conditions are favorable. It's essential to be prepared for any changes in the weather and to follow the guidelines and regulations set by the authorities.
