Things to do · Makalu
The Best Things to Do in Makalu
The base camp trek, the wild Barun Valley, a pristine national park, the Arun Valley and red panda forests of eastern Nepal.
Makalu is wilderness travel at its purest: a single great trek up to the foot of the world's fifth-highest peak, wrapped in a national park that ranges from steamy river gorge to glacier. Here are the experiences worth building a trip around.
The short answer
The signature adventure is the Makalu Base Camp trek route, which climbs from the lowlands all the way to the glaciers beneath the 8,485-metre peak. It runs through the Barun Valley, the spectacular glacier-carved corridor that is the scenic heart of the Makalu Barun National Park.
If you are not trekking the whole route, the lower region still rewards a visit: explore the subtropical Arun Valley around Tumlingtar, wander the busy hill town of Khandbari bazaar, and start the high trail from the trailheads at Num and Seduwa. Tap any spot below for what to expect and how to reach it — and read the full region overview in our Makalu travel guide.
A suggested trip
A complete Makalu trip begins with a flight to Tumlingtar, a night to organise permits and porters, and a drive up to Num. From there the trail crosses the Arun river to Seduwa and climbs steadily into the Barun Valley over a week or more, reaching base camp before retracing the route. Build in spare days for weather on the high Shipton La and Keke La passes, and follow our Makalu trekking guide for permits and logistics.
What makes Makalu different
What sets Makalu apart is its sheer remoteness and ecological range. Few treks in Nepal climb through as many habitats in one valley — from leech-filled monsoon forest to alpine moraine — and fewer still see so few other walkers. The park is also a renowned red panda habitat, making this as much a wildlife journey as a mountaineering pilgrimage.
Good to know
- Permits: You need both a Makalu Barun National Park permit and a TIMS card; arrange them before leaving Khandbari.
- Self-sufficiency: Lodges thin out above Seduwa, so most trekkers go with a guide, porters and some camping support.
- Acclimatise: The high passes top out above 4,000 metres — read up on altitude sickness in Nepal before you go.
- Go in season: Plan around the best time to visit Makalu for clear passes and safe river crossings.
Sights & attractions
Trekking & treks
Wildlife & nature
Frequently asked questions
What are the must-do experiences in Makalu?+
The headline experience is the Makalu Base Camp trek through the Barun Valley, but the region also offers the pristine Makalu Barun National Park, the lush Arun Valley around Tumlingtar, the lively hill town of Khandbari and some of Nepal's best red panda forest.
Can you visit Makalu without doing the full trek?+
Partly. You can fly into Tumlingtar and explore the Arun Valley, Khandbari bazaar and the lower national park, but reaching Makalu Base Camp and the Barun Valley requires the full multi-week wilderness trek on foot from Num and Seduwa.
How many days do you need to see Makalu's highlights?+
The full base camp trek takes around 18 to 22 days. If you only want the lower valley, a few days based around Tumlingtar and Khandbari covers the Arun Valley, the national park gateway and the surrounding villages.
Is Makalu suitable for beginner trekkers?+
No. The Makalu Base Camp trek is a committing, remote route with long days, high altitude and few facilities. It suits fit, experienced trekkers; the lower Arun Valley sights, however, are easy to reach and need no trekking experience.
