Trekking · Makalu
Makalu Base Camp Trek Route
A remote multi-week trek from the Arun Valley up the Barun gorge to base camp beneath the 8,485m Makalu massif.
The Makalu Base Camp trek is a remote, committing route through eastern Nepal that climbs from the subtropical Arun Valley to glaciers at around 4,870 metres beneath Makalu, the world's fifth-highest peak. It is one of the country's wildest mainstream treks — long, scenic and gloriously empty compared with the Everest and Annapurna trails.
The route in brief
The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a road transfer up through Khandbari bazaar to the trailhead at Num. From Num the trail drops to cross the Arun river and climbs steeply to Seduwa, the entry point to the Makalu Barun National Park. Over the following days it ascends through Tashigaon and over the Shipton La and Keke La passes onto the high benches above the Barun Valley.
From there the path follows the Barun river upstream past Yangle Kharka and Langmale Kharka to base camp, set on glacial moraine with Makalu rearing overhead and views to Chamlang and the south face of Everest. Most groups spend a day or two exploring around base camp before retracing the route to Num.
What to expect
This is high, remote walking. Expect long days, big altitude swings, exposed pass crossings and stretches with only basic teahouses or camping. The scenery is the payoff: a single valley that climbs through rhododendron forest, waterfalls, summer yak pasture and finally raw glacier, with almost no other trekkers for company.
Good to know
- Best season: Autumn and spring give the safest passes — see the best time to visit Makalu.
- Permits: A national park permit and TIMS card are required; sort them before the trek.
- Acclimatise: Build in rest days and read our altitude sickness in Nepal guide.
- Logistics: For permits, packing and operators, see the Makalu trekking guide and Nepal's wider trekking guide.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the Makalu Base Camp trek?+
The full trek usually takes 18 to 22 days return, including flights to and from Tumlingtar. Walking days start gently in the Arun Valley but become long and remote once the trail enters the Barun Valley above Seduwa.
How high is Makalu Base Camp?+
Makalu Base Camp sits at roughly 4,870 metres at the foot of the Barun Glacier. The trek also crosses the Shipton La and Keke La passes at over 4,000 metres, so good acclimatisation is essential.
Is the Makalu Base Camp trek hard?+
Yes — it is one of Nepal's tougher mainstream treks, with long days, steep ridge crossings, high passes and limited lodges. It suits fit, experienced trekkers comfortable with remote, self-supported wilderness travel.
Do you need a guide for the Makalu Base Camp trek?+
Effectively yes. The route is remote, signage is minimal and facilities thin out fast, so almost everyone goes with a guide and porters, often with some camping support above the last villages.
