Trip Duration: 20 days Trekking Days: 15 days Trip Grading: Mild to strenuous Maximum Elevation: 5250 meters / 17220ft Accommodation: Teahouses
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Mt. Makalu (8463m/27760ft), one of the highest peaks in the world, stands between its two tall neighbors, Kanchenjunga in the East and Everest in the West. A 45 minute flight from the capital city of Kathmandu takes you to the town of Tumlingtar, in the base of the Arun River, the trekking starting point. The route then gradually follows the Arun River out of the valley, through settlements before reaching the alpine area. Trekking up to Makalu base camp is relatively moderate and relatively free of visitors. Makalu-Varun National Park has laid the foundations for the preservation of the natural and cultural environment of the area. As trekkers and mountaineers increase every year, teahouses are being set up for the visitors. The trek heads over the pass of Shipton La (named after Eric Shipton 1952) at 4216m/13828ft, approaching the base camp, prior to entering the upper part of the Makalu Varun Valley. This provides breathtaking views of beautiful ice lakes, the giant South face of Makalu, Mt. Varuntse and the Everest ridge along with Lhotse and other peaks.

The trek up to Makalu base camp usually returns on the same trail to Tumlingtar but some enthusiastic hikers or climbers trek even higher across the most challenging passes of Sherpani Col, East Col, West Col and Amphulabtsa. All above 5500m/18040 ft., these passes demand extreme physical fitness and some skills of crossing and climbing glaciers and rocks. These extremely wild and adventurous passes connect the Makalu-Varun area with the Hong Valley and Chhuikung of the Everest region.

Brief Itinerary of Makalu Base Camp Trek

Day 01-02: Kathmandu
Day 03: Fly to Tumlingtar and short drive to Num (1500 m)
Day 04: Trekking to Sedua (1,540m)
Day 05: Trekking to Tashigaon (2,070m)
Day 06: Trekking to Khongma (3,560m)
Day 07: Rest and acclimatisation day
Day 08: Trekking to Debotay (3,650m)
Day 09: Trek to Yangle Kharka (3,600m)
Day 10: Trekking to Langmale Kharka (4,200m)
Day 11: Acclimatisation day
Day 12: Trekking to Makalu Base Camp (4900m)
Day 13: Day hike towards sherpani col, around base camp
Day 14-17: Trek back to Tumlingtar
Day 18: Fly out to Kathmandu
Day 19: Kathmandu
Day 20: Fly back home or plan more trips

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You can read some reviews from past clients about our services below. Click here for more reviews

      Can't say enough good things about Amber and his team. My husband and I did Lawudo Gompa group trek with Ven Robina under the guidance of Three Jewels Adventures. Amber... read more

    MissBonnieMcSquirrel
    11/03/2022

      It is the 2nd time that I participated in a retreat trekking led by Three Jewels Adventures: the 1st in 2018 and just returned few weeks ago from a 2nd... read more

    georgesp329
    11/01/2022

      I would rate 10 stars if I could - every step of the way (literally) safety was the priority and our group was completely taken care of and supported. ... read more

    T2025SPjohng
    10/31/2022

      I cannot speak too highly of Amber and his wonderful team at Three Jewels Adventures. I am 67 and had never done a trek like this before. I... read more

    vivah2022
    10/31/2022
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