Makalu Expedition
Mt. Makalu Mountaineering Expedition
"An Epic Journey to the Summit of the World’s 5th Highest Peak – Mt. Makalu (8,463m)"
Trip Highlights
Cross iconic high passes: Khongma-La, Shipton-La, and Keke-La en route to Makalu Base Camp
Trek from the lush Arun Valley to the wild, dramatic landscapes of Barun Valley
Venture deep into the least explored Himalayan region of Eastern Nepal
Challenge yourself on one of the most technical and demanding 8,000-meter peaks
Enjoy awe-inspiring views of Mt. Everest's East Face (Khansung Face) and surrounding peaks from the summit
Quick Facts
Trekking Mode: Combination of basic lodge and full-service camping
Trek Grade: Moderate to Strenuous
Climbing Grade: Highly Technical Mountaineering
Region: Sankhuwasabha District, Far Eastern Nepal
Duration: 45 Days (38 Nights/39 Days for trek & climb)
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
Why Choose the Makalu Expedition?
Mt. Makalu (8,463m) is the fifth-highest mountain in the world, standing between Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga. Known for its steep ridges, exposed rock faces, and technical climbing sections, Makalu is a true mountaineer's mountain.
Your adventure begins in the lowland farms of Tumlingtar and ascends through alpine woodlands and remote highlands. After leaving behind the last Sherpa village of Tashi Gaon, the trail leads you into pure wilderness, crossing passes and ridgelines to reach the spectacular Makalu Base Camp (5,250m). From here, the true adventure begins – 20 days dedicated to the summit push, route fixing, acclimatization, and high camp logistics.
Makalu Base Camp & Climb
Base Camp Altitude: 5,250m
Climbing Route: Northwest Face
Number of High Camps: 3–4 depending on weather & logistics
Summit Views: Unrivaled panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, Chamlang, and into Tibet
Summit Experience: One of the most rewarding yet technically demanding climbs in the Himalayas
Natural Wonders & Biodiversity
The expedition takes place within the Makalu-Barun National Park, one of the most biologically diverse regions in Nepal:
Flora: 47 types of orchids, 25 varieties of rhododendrons, 19 species of bamboo, and more
Fauna: Red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, clouded leopard, goral, and over 400 bird species
Dense forests of rhododendron, pine, fir, and oak fill the lower valleys
Dramatic transitions from sub-tropical lowlands to alpine wilderness
Local Culture & Heritage
The Sherpa communities of the Makalu region trace their ancestry to Tibet, with traditions rooted in Buddhism
Ancient monasteries, chortens, and mani walls mark villages like Tashi Gaon
The surrounding mid-hills are home to mixed Hindu and Buddhist populations, adding rich cultural depth to the trek
Accommodation & Meals
Lodging: Simple lodges available from Tumlingtar to Tashi Gaon
Camping: Full-service camps beyond Tashi Gaon; includes tents, dining/kitchen facilities, and toilet tents
Meals: Variety of Continental, Nepali (Dal Bhat), Tibetan (Momo, noodles), and other international dishes prepared by trained expedition cooks
Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Take some time to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 02: Expedition Briefing and Gear Check
Today is reserved for a formal expedition briefing at the Department of Tourism, where you will receive important information regarding rules and safety protocols. Afterwards, a thorough gear check will be conducted to ensure all equipment is ready for the mountain.
Day 03: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Enjoy a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley, visiting some of its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. This is a good opportunity to soak in Nepal’s rich spiritual and cultural atmosphere before heading to the mountains.
Day 04: Fly to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num
Take an early flight to Tumlingtar, a small town in eastern Nepal. From there, enjoy a scenic drive to the trailhead village of Num, where the trekking journey begins.
Day 05–11: Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Begin the trek from Num and pass through traditional villages like Seduwa and Tashi Gaon. The trail winds through lush forests, alpine meadows, and remote ridges, gradually gaining altitude. You'll cross Khongma La Pass and continue through Dobate and Yak Kharka before finally reaching Makalu Base Camp.
Day 12–16: Base Camp Setup and Acclimatization
Once at Base Camp, time will be dedicated to setting up tents, organizing loads, and preparing logistics for the climb. These days will also be used for acclimatization hikes and route planning with the climbing team.
Day 17–36: Summit Climbing Period
This is the core phase of the expedition. During this period, the team will carry loads to higher camps, fix ropes along the climbing route, and establish Camp I, II, III, and IV. After the camps are set and weather permits, the final summit push will be made to reach the top of Mt. Makalu (8,481m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world.
Day 37–39: Clean-up and Return Trek to Num
After a successful summit, the team will clean up the base camp and retrace the trail back to Num, ensuring all waste is carried out to preserve the mountain environment.
Day 40: Drive to Tumlingtar
A drive from Num will bring you back to Tumlingtar, marking the end of the trekking section of the expedition.
Day 41: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Take a morning flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing day in the capital city.
Day 42–44: Buffer/Reserve Days
These extra days are included in case of delays due to weather, health issues, or any other unforeseen circumstances that may impact the summit schedule.
Day 45: Final Departure
Your expedition concludes today. Our representative will transfer you to the airport for your final departure, marking the end of a remarkable journey to one of the world’s most majestic peaks.