Trip Type
Trekking
Difficulty
Hard
SKILLS PROFILE
No Requirements
ACCOMMODATION
Tea House
DESTINATION
Nepal
Start / End Point
Chichila / Chichila
Region
Makalu (8485 m)
Duration
22 days
Elevation
4870 M
Seasons
Feb-Apr,Sep-Dec
Group Size
2 - 7
Popularity
GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
Check upcoming trip dates, availability & prices. If you can't see dates that suite you, contact us we will do our best to assist you.
| GUARANTEED DEPARTURES | PRICE | AVAILABILITY | |
| Aug 1, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025 | $2950 | High | |
| Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025 | $2950 | High | |
| Sep 18, 2025 - Oct 9, 2025 | $2950 | High | |
| Oct 12, 2025 - Nov 2, 2025 | $2950 | High | |
| Nov 5, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025 | $2950 | High |
Trek Highlights
- This region is named after Mount Makalu at the elevation of 8463m which is the world's 5th highest mountain.
- The Makalu Barun National Park is the eighth national park in the Himalayas of Nepal that was established in 1992 as an eastern extension of Sagarmatha National Park.
- It is home to more than 3000 species of flowering plants including 25 species of rhododendron and hundreds of varieties of orchids.
- This trek is a strenuous trek that takes you to the diverse world of vegetation, animals, and birds, etc.
Why This Trip ?
This trek is a blessing for those nature lovers who want to see bio-diversity in flora and fauna. This Beautiful national park has a tremendous amount of variety in vegetation, animals, and birds to those who want to see and research on it.
Photo Gallery
Dive into our gallery to get a glimpse of the awe-inspiring vistas waiting for you on our guided treks across stunning landscapes.
Short Itinerary
Day
1
ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU
Day
2
SIGHTSEEING IN KATHMANDU
Day
3
FLY FROM KATHMANDU TO TUMLINGTAR AND DRIVE TO CHICHILA
Day
4
TREK TO NUM (1500M)
Day
5
TREK TO SEDUA (1540M)
Day
6
TREK TO TASHIGAON (2100M)
Day
7
TREK TO KHONGMA (3560M)
Day
8
ACCLIMATIZATION REST AT KHONGMA
Day
9
TREK TO MUMBUK (3350M)
Day
10
TREK TO YANGLE KHARKA (3600M)
Day
11
TREK TO MEREK (4570M)
Day
12
TREK TO SHERSONG (4660M)
Day
13
EXPLORATION OF MAKALU BASE CAMP (4870M)
Day
14
TREK TO SHERSONG
Day
15
TREK TO YANGLE KHARKA (3600M)
Day
16
TREK TO MUMBUK (3540M)
Day
17
TREK TO KHONGMA
Day
18
TREK TO TASHIGAON
Day
19
TREK TO NUM
Day
20
TREK TO CHICHILA
Day
21
DRIVE TO TUMLINGTAR AND FLY TO KATHMANDU
Day
22
DEPARTURE
Comprehensive Trek Guide
Makalu Barun trek takes you to the isolated and remote region of Makalu and Barun valley in Nepal. It will be an amazing journey towards the world's fifth highest mountain Mt. Makalu. Along with this, you will go through Makalu Barun national park. This conservation area shelters some of the rarest species in the world.
The Makalu Barun national park alone extends over 1,500 sq km. It lies by the high plateaus of Tibet and the deep subtropical gap made by the Arun River. Furthermore, it is a blessing to behold the views of rocky Himalayan peaks including Mt. Makalu, Mt. Chamlang and Mt. Baruntse. You are bound to have an unforgettable time seeing the high waterfalls cascading into deep gorges with the lush green forests and the blanket of flowers under the white peaks.
Makalu Barun region has a variety of flowers like rhododendron and orchids. Barun Valley consists of up to 3,000 flower plants which include 25 different species of rhododendron. Similarly, it shelters the plethora of wildlife like snow leopard, red panda, wild boar, musk deer, etc. Furthermore, this region consists of 440 species of birds and 75 types of mammals. It is the best place for anyone looking for rich natural biodiversity.
Makalu Barun trek takes us to the beautiful Barun river valley in Makalu Barun National Park. This trek is full of diverse landscapes. Must of thetrail is unpopulated and you will need tent camping. On the amazing side, sleeping under the Himalayas adds excitement.
The best season for Makalu Barun trek is spring and autumn. Spring brings color to the trek with rhododendron forest. And the sky is clear during the autumn season. Moreover, anyone in good health can take this trek.
Tipping Recommendation
We recommend allocating 10-15% of your total tour cost to tipping guides, drivers, and other hardworking staff who ensure your experience is unforgettable. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a meaningful way to support the seasonal workers who dedicate themselves to making your trip extraordinary.
By booking with us and participating in the tipping culture, you are directly contributing to Nepal’s local economy and helping sustain the tourism workforce. This support is crucial in retaining talent within the country and addressing challenges like brain drain.
Your generosity makes a lasting impact—thank you!
Itinerary
Day1
ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Our representative will be at the airport to greet you and escort you to the hotel. Savour the taste of hustle and bustle in Kathmandu, where everyone would seem busy but never too busy to greet you with a smile. In the evening, we will brief about the itinerary and later we will go for a nice dinner. Overnight stay at the hotel;
Day2
SIGHTSEEING IN KATHMANDU
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
After breakfast, Kathmandu tour begins. Kathmandu Valley is an incredibly diverse city with a breathtaking Newari culture, centuries-old Hindu and Buddhists cultural sites alongside a plethora of ancient monuments. The capital of the country and home to 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kathmandu, bridges modern facilities with centuries-old traditions and cultures with its tourist-friendly accommodations and the ancestral etiquette “Atithi Devo Bhava” meaning "Guest is equivalent to God". Throughout the day, most of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu will be observed. Overnight stay at the hotel;
Day3
FLY FROM KATHMANDU TO TUMLINGTAR AND DRIVE TO CHICHILA
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
We begin our journey to Makalu Barun national park. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the domestic airport for a flight to Tumlingtar. After we reach Tumlingtar, we take a jeep and drive to the small town of Chichila. Overnight at Chichila;
Day4
TREK TO NUM (1500M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Our trek to Makalu Barun National park starts as we head towards Num (1500m). We pass through the small settlement of Baisake and Kuwapani and reach Hururu. After Hururu, the trail elevates and drops down into the deep oak forest before arriving at Mure Village inhabited by Sherpa and Rai people. Descending along the rocky trail, we reach Num after 5 to 6 hours of walk from Chichila. Overnight at Num;
Day5
TREK TO SEDUA (1540M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
From Num, we descend through the western end of num walking across the steep cornfields of Lumbang. From here, the trail becomes further steep and passes over a suspension bridge over the Arun Koshi, then ascends through forests and few traditional villages. Continuing to ascend through a dense forest, crossing Arun Koshiriver, we reach Sedua. Overnight in Sedua;
Day6
TREK TO TASHIGAON (2100M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
This is the day when we actually enter the National Park. Ascending the ridge bound by Ipsuwa Khola on the west and Kasuwa Khola to the east, we hike through bushes and reach Manigaon. From Manigaon, we head west with a gentle climb until we reach Chyaksadanda and Ropesa. After about 4 hours of walk, we reach the village of Tashigaon. Overnight in Tashigaon;
Day7
TREK TO KHONGMA (3560M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Climbing over the ridge and ascending through the dense forest of rhododendron, passing several ridges and seasonal Yak herders, we reach Chipla. From Chipla, the trail rises and becomes even steeper. Before reaching Khongma, a flat altitude meadow will welcome us. Overnight at the beautiful hill of Khongma;
Day8
ACCLIMATIZATION REST AT KHONGMA
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
We need acclimatization to get used to thin air of higher altitude. Khongma is the best place for acclimatization. The beautiful meadow and surrounding mountains will make this day wonderful. We spend this day exploring the surrounding. Overnight at Khongma;
Day9
TREK TO MUMBUK (3350M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
On this day, we ascend the steep ridge enjoying the picturesque views of Chhamlang Peak 6 and peak 7. We again climb over a ridge to Ghungru La. The path passes through the forest leading to a ridge with Mani walls, numerous prayer flags before descending to a small turquoise lake Kalo Pokhari. Next, we climb steeply up to Shipton La Pass. Further descending for some time, we reach Mumbuk Village (3550m). Overnight at Mumbuk;
Day10
TREK TO YANGLE KHARKA (3600M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
The trail today descends down steeply and turns westwards along the bottom of the Barun Valley. We will pass through a small cave, several streams and finally Barun River on the long bridge before reaching Yangle Kharka (3600m). A gentle climb over a Mani wall takes us to Yangle kKharka. Overnight at Yangle Kharka;
Day11
TREK TO MEREK (4570M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
From Yangle Kharka, we pass Nghe Kharka. Following the Barun Valley, we pass Riphuk Kharka and making a short climb, we reach Jhak Kharka and the meadow of Yak Kharka. The trail climbs over a ridge beyond Yak Kharka and ascends alongside a moraine formed by the lower Barun Glacier. With the excellent view of peak 3 and peak 5, we finally reach to Merek (4570m). We spend a night there;
Day12
TREK TO SHERSONG (4660M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
From Merek, we climb up and reach to Shersong (4660m) where there is a small stone hut with amazing views around. Shersong is a fine place for a good campsite in the Yak pasture. Overnight at Shersong;
Day13
EXPLORATION OF MAKALU BASE CAMP (4870M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
This day, we head to Makalu Base Camp early in the morning and return back to Shersong. We follow flat trail strewn with icy glaciers to reach Makalu Base Camp and from there we have an excellent view of Mount Makalu, Peak 6 and Peak 7, Baruntse, and the complete panorama of Everest and Lhotse. Overnight at Shersong;
Day14
TREK TO SHERSONG
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today, we will trek back to Shersong retracing our way through small caves, several streams and Barun River. Overnight in Shersong;
Day15
TREK TO YANGLE KHARKA (3600M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
We retrace our trek back to Yangle Kharka passing through Langmale Kharka, Merek and descending down the valley. Overnight at Yangle Kharka;
Day16
TREK TO MUMBUK (3540M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Retracing our way back, through small caves, several bridges and ascending through forests we reach Mumbuk. Overnight at Mumbuk;
Day17
TREK TO KHONGMA
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Walking along the ascending path crossing Shipton La Pass, descending through the steep path over Kalo Pokhari Lake we reach Ghangru La. Continuing with our descend, we enjoy the picturesque sights of mighty mountains and reach Khongma. Overnight at Khongma;
Day18
TREK TO TASHIGAON
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
We leave Khongma today and head towards Tashigaon. Crossing Ropesa and Chyaksadanda, we reach Manigaon. Hiking through boulders and bushes we descend the ridge bound by Ipsuwa Khola on the west and Kasuwa Khola to the east, we reach Tashigaon. Overnight at Tashigaon;
Day19
TREK TO NUM
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today we return to Num tracking the way leading to Seduwa, crossing Arun Koshi River over a suspension bridge. Trudging past the dense forests, walking downhill across the cornfields of Lumbang, we reach Num. Overnight at Num;
Day20
TREK TO CHICHILA
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Following the ascending rocky trail, passing through the Mure Village inhabited by Sherpa and Rai people, along the dense forest we reach Hururu. Moving past Kuwapani and Baisake Village we reach Chichila. Overnight at Chichila;
Day21
DRIVE TO TUMLINGTAR AND FLY TO KATHMANDU
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel
After our warm breakfast, we start our day with the ride to Tumlingtar by a private vehicle followed by the flight to Kathmandu in the evening. Overnight in Kathmandu;
Day22
DEPARTURE
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Depending on your flight time you will be transferred to the airport. The airport check-in is 3 hours prior to the departure time.
What's Included
- Airport transfers;
- Standard/Deluxe rooms in Kathmandu on twin/double sharing with breakfast;
- Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with a professional guide on a private vehicle;
- Accommodation during the trek (or camping in case of need);
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek with one drink per meal;
- Authorized English speaking guide along with porters (2:1);
- All applicable government tax;
- All expenses for all staff: meals, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, transportation;
- All necessary paperwork and Trekking Permit, Trekkers' Information Management System fees (TIMS);
- Medical kit.
What's not Included
- International flights;
- Nepalese visa fee
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure;
- Entrance fees during sightseeing;
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu;
- Travel and rescue insurance;
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.);
- Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s).
Tour Map
Frequently Asked Question
1. Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon arrival
Yes, our representative will be there to greet you at the airport. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by a private car/jeep.
2. Is there an Orientation program
Yes, there is going to be a small orientation/briefing program before we embark on our adventure by the tour manager, leader/guide.
3. What is the overnight accommodation like
For nights in cities, we use standard/superior standard/deluxe rooms whereas, during the trek we use lodges/tea houses/guesthouses/home stay for our clients, and whatever is available and accessible. We also arrange sleeping bags for our clients, on their request.
4. How big are the groups
We believe in operating small intimate group to provide personal attention and services to our guests. Small groups can enjoy the trek hassle free and enjoy the customized trip according to their need and suitability. We do not incorporate more than 14 People in a group, unless we get special requests from our clients.
5. Is Travelling in Makalu Barun safe for women
Yes, Nepal can boast as the one of the safest country in South Asia for women, you will find people very friendly and respectful towards foreigners especially towards women. Makalu Barun is one of the most visited areas by the tourists so the service providers are professional and local people are respectful with welcoming hospitality towards the trekkers.
6. What about security during trekking
We make sure to take security measures during trek to make your trip delightful. We hire experienced and license holding guides to safeguard your life in trip. We suggest you to follow the guide’s instruction carefully and take responsibility for personal belongings. Always keep your valued belongings near you and lock the door from inside during the night.
7. What sort of food can I expect in trekking
Makalu Barun provides wide range of delicious western meals like Pasta, noodles, pizzas, bread, soup etc. Dal Bhat (Rice, Lentils and Vegetables) are great way to gain energy for the strenuous trek.
8. Is the drinking water safe in trekking region
There are plenty of water stations on each stop on the route. You can easily fill up the bottle from the open taps. We recommend that you bring water purifier tablets with you or at least get it from Kathmandu before you depart for trekking. You can also buy mineral waters but we usually recommend tap water which is pure and it helps us not promoting plastic bottled water.
9. What mode of transportation do you use
We use private car/jeep/van depending on the size of the group for sightseeing inside the Kathmandu Valley and transfer to Tumlingtar on domestic flight and use private transportation to Chichila and back.
10. What is the best season for Makalu Barun Trek
Makalu Barun Trek can be trekked best during the season from September to December and February to April.
11. Will I be taken care of during emergency
Before coming to Nepal, make sure that you are covered by insurance for about 5500 meters. In case of emergency like altitude sickness, dehydration or any medical condition ask your tour leader to contact us ASAP so that we can manage helicopter for the rescue. You then will be transferred to hospital for the treatment.
12. What is appropriate dress for trekking
Trekking is a tiresome activity that requires a lot of physical movement so pack your active wears and trekking pants for at lower altitudes. Weather at high altitude is unpredictable so carry a light weight waterproof jacket along with thick down jacket, pant and thermal inner wear t to escape severe cold. Needless to say that, good shoes are very important for trekking in rough and snowy terrain, so invest on good quality shoes or rent it from us in a minimum price. As you are trekking in remote village, try to wear modest clothes to quickly gel up with the local people without hesitation.
13. Is it possible to alternate or change the day trips
We customize the trip according to your preference but if you need to change plan during the trek, consult the guide.
14. Are we sure to get room while trekking
We contact the lodge/guesthouse/tea house owner for reservation of the room before trekking on a particular day. On other days, porters reach the destination on advance and book the rooms for you. But there are always going to be exceptions but even in those cases, we may have to be flexible about very basic sleeping arrangements. We always try to make sure that we have everything well arranged.
15. Are your guides reliable and certified
All our guides are trekking experts holding license from Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Government. They are the most valuable assets of the company. Guides know the trekking route like the back of their hand and use their expertise in ensuring your safety in the mountains.
16. How can I charge my electronics during the trip
While trekking in higher lands, you need to pay for charging the electronics upon request to the owner. The best idea always is to bring your own power bank with you. It's easier and cheaper.
17. Is there any communication while we are on trekking
Whilst trekking in eastern region, you can make local and international calls from telephone provided by the guesthouse/teahouse owner after paying certain amount directly.
18. Can I add extra days to my trekking trip
If you need extra day to complete the trekking, you'll need to inform the guide in advance and the guide will let the company know. Adding a day to trekking can result in many changes in other arrangements such as transportation, guides' schedule, flight details, hotel bookings and all, so we really don't recommend this to our clients unless there's an emergency cases. But it's true that those changes could be made but it will cost extra. The best way to do it is to inform the agent company about it.
19. What immunizations will I need
Before coming to Nepal, make sure you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus. Make sure you are in best shape to complete the trekking without any complication.
20. How many hours do I have to trek each day
Usually, we have to walk about 7-9 hours a day. But it should not be taken as certain thing because the hours of walk depends on client’s speed. So it is really relative.
21. How will my booking be processed
To confirm your booking, a deposit of 15% of total trip amount is required if you are booking at least a year in advance before trip departure date. If booking is made between 100-364 days before the trip departure, you'll need to pay 20% to confirm the trip. If payment is made between 99-60 days, 25% of the total trip amount will need to be paid and if booked between 59-30 days, 50% of the total trip amount needs to be paid and finally, if you are booking 29 days prior to trip departure, then 100% payment should be made. The payments can be easily made by the bank transfer. The due balance is payable on arrival in Kathmandu with cash (preferably USD/EURO) or card on POS/credit card machine. Please note that non refundable fee is 10% or $200 whichever is greater.
22. Can we use the credit card during the trek
No, you cannot use the credit card during the trek. You have to withdraw the money before you start the trek. You can use credit card only in Kathmandu.
23. Do we need to carry our bags by our self or you will provide porters
You have to carry your personal bags with water bottle and medicines remaining bags will be carried by porters to make you easy to trek. The weight limit for porters is 15 KG.
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