If you are a mountain lover, then you might have been to or heard about Nepal’s treasured Everest and Annapurna regions. But when it comes to mountains, Nepal is more than Everest and Annapurna. Sharing the immediate east frontier with Everest, lies Mt. Makalu (8458m), world’s fifth highest mountain as imposing and grand as Everest, if not more. Trekking to Makalu Base Camp is full of amazing adventures, and what’s more, the trail is quieter where you can have nature all by yourself.

Among the countless trekking destinations throughout the country, Makalu Base Camp is one of the most diverse and awe-inspiring one that offers you a wonderful opportunity to explore the unique cultural heritage of Rai and Sherpa people, and exceptional floral & faunal richness of Barun River Valley. Considered as adventurous and challenging trek, this trip takes you through the heavenly panorama of some of world’s highest peaks including the rare angle of Everest (8848 m), Makalu (8458 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Kanchenjunga (8586m) and many more. A trip to this land of unsurpassed beauty definitely deserves to be in your wish list. If you want to dig in further about this adventure, here we have some helpful details for you.

Accommodation

Accommodations during Makalu Base Camp Trek are very basic. You will find local teahouses along the trail. Num, Sedua and Tashi Gaun have comparatively better teahouses than other places. Teahouses have rooms consisting of beds with pillow and blankets. (Make sure to bring your own sleeping bag as the blanket may not be warm enough). You can’t find rooms with attached bath and hot shower. However, if you request, they will provide bucket full of hot water with extra charges. Majority of teahouses have rooms in twin sharing basis and dormitory rooms. And they can accommodate up to 10-12 guests at once. If you have large group, it’s better to take back up camping support in case you don’t find enough rooms.   

Food

Teahouses provide both accommodation and food. As teahouses in Makalu region are basic, their food menu is also very simple, consisting of local Nepali food (Daal Bhaat – rice, lentil and curry), noodles and chapatis. It’s always a good idea to carry supplementary food which you can prepare easily like soup, instant noodles, dry fruits and nuts, coffee, juice, herbal tea etc. Since you don’t have many food options, it’s better to have Daal Bhaat as they are always freshly made and good for calorie replenishment.

Communication

Communication facility in Makalu region is not very advanced. There are signals of telecommunication in the starting point of the trek only (up to Tashi Gaun). As you trek higher, you won’t find network connection. If it is important for you to get connected with your family and friends during the trip, you can get rental satellite phone.

Electricity and Charging

This trek takes you through the isolated valley. Electricity is a problem in the area. Num, Sedua and Tashi Gaun have electricity facility. Places beyond this have solar energy but they are not always reliable. Because of electricity problem, you can’t get charging facility in teahouses. So, always make sure to carry fully charged power bank.

Clothing and Equipment

Makalu Base Camp Trek is a bit challenging trek. So, for that you need best trekking clothing and gears like boots, hiking pants, winter caps, down jackets, Poncho, wind cheater etc. Thermals and layers are really important to keep you warm and comfortable. Trekking poles and crampons (while crossing high pass during winter) are very essential during this trek as you follow snowy and steep trails.  

 Permits

You need some permits in order to trek in Makalu region. Since you travel through Makalu Barun National Park during your trip, you must have the National Park permit which you need to display if asked. You also need TIMS Card and local permit.  

• Makalu Barun National Park permit: Approx. $30 per person
• Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card: $10 per person
• Rural Municipality – $10

Best Time to Travel

Autumn (from mid-September till November end) and Spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May) are considered to be best season for Makalu Base Camp Trek. The weather in these months are likely to be finest and the skies are clear during these days. Trekking during monsoon and winter is not recommended as the visibility is poor during rainy days whereas the temperature is extremely harsh during winter. It is possible to trek during winter but the teahouses at the high altitude aren’t especially well equipped.

Trekking Grade

Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging trek as the trail goes through remoteness, unpredictable weather, high altitude passes and changing terrain with few trekking amenities available. The terrains at the trail gets more difficult and the markings get fainter as you trek higher. The highest point of the trek is Makalu Base Camp (4,900 m). Although this trek is difficult, that doesn’t mean it is less achievable. Right preparation and precaution can make this adventure successful.

Standard Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Tumlingtar (flight) and Drive to Num (Approx. 1505m)

Flight time: 35 minutes

Drive time: 3 hours  

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tip: leave Kathmandu early after breakfast to reach the destination on time. Though local transportation is available, it’s better to hire a private vehicle.

Day 2: Trek to Sedua (Approx. 1530m)

Trek time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Day 3: Trek to Tashi Gaon (Approx. 2065m)

Trek time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Day 4: Trek to Kauma (Approx. 3562m)

Trek time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Day 5: Rest Day Kauma

Day 6: Trek to Dobate (Approx. 4170m)

Trek time: 7-8 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Walk gently and gradually while you pass through Keke la pass. The trail is very steep and dangerous. You might get injured if you don’t walk carefully in this pass.

Day 6: Trek to Yangri Kharka (Approx. 4150m)

Trek time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Always follow the guidance and precautions provided by the experienced crew while you trek to Yangri Kharka as the path is dangerous in the starting of Dobate

Day 7: Trek to Nebuk/Langmale (Approx. 4410 m)

Trek time: 5-6 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Do not miss the beautiful sunset on Pyramid Peak, Peak 4, Chamlang, Peak 3 and Peak 5 and Mt. Makalu (8458m) from Shershong.

Day 8: Trek to Makalu Base Camp (Approx. 4900m)

Trek time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Ascent the small ridge of large buttress of south face from the base camp for the stunning views of Peak 6, 7 and Baruntse (7220m), Everest (8848m) and Lhotse (8516m)

Day 9: Rest Day – Exploration

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Your body needs rest after the trek. So consider this day as rest day to explore around.

Day 10: Trek to Yangri Kharka (Approx .4150m)

Trek time: 5-6 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Be careful while you pass through Yangri Kharka. The trail is quite dangerous and steep. Always walk slowly and steadily.

Day 11: Trek to Dobate (Approx. 4170m)

Trek time: 5-6 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Start your day early in the morning with light meal. The landscapes you see on the way to Dobate is awe inspiring in the morning.

Day 12: Trek to Kauma (Approx. 3562m)

Trek time: 5-6 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Day 13: Trek to Sedua (Approx.1460m)

Trek time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Day 14: Trek to Num (Approx. 1560m)

Trek time: 5-6 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

Tips: Visit the village and meet local people if you have spare time. Listen to their stories and make your trip unforgettable.

Day 15: Trek to Tumlingtar (Approx. 518m)

Trek time: 3 hours

Accommodation: teahouse/lodge

If you have trekked in Nepal, chances are pretty high that you have stayed in one of the local teahouses as almost every trekking in Nepal is teahouse trek. In teahouse trek, trekkers stay in teahouses that are strewn along the trail. Teahouses are small hotels found in villages in the Himalaya that offers both bedding and eating facilities for the trekkers. Often run by local families, tea houses are built of local materials and provide required comfort and safety for trekkers.

Teahouses have drastically changed the way of trekking in Nepal. In earlier times, almost all of the trekking used to be camping trekking in which trekkers used to spend nights in tented camps. But the story is different now. Due to easily available teahouses, trekking groups don’t need to carry camping and cooking equipment or plan extensive logistics. Teahouses have considerably lowered down the cost of trekking. They have also helped to reduce the impacts on environment as they are located in villages not in fragile terrain like camping trekking. They also boost the local economy as the teahouse owners and staffs are all local people. Teahouses also offer a wonderful opportunity to interact with locals and experience the local life and culture. 

Nowadays, teahouses are ubiquitous in popular trekking areas such as Everest and Annapurna. In less frequented areas like Manaslu, Makalu, Kanchenjungha etc also, teahouses are growing in number. The facilities provided by such teahouses can vary as some can be basic whereas some can be luxurious. But normally all teahouses have basic facilities like western style toilets, hot showers, continental meals and internet connection. So, trekking while staying in local teahouses can be a lifetime experience you wouldn’t want to miss. 

Basic facilities in teahouses: 

Accommodation

Generally, tea house mostly consists of twin-basis accommodation. You can find a single room that have twin beds with some other furniture like a small table or a chair. The price of room differs according to the size, quality, cleanliness of tea houses and lodges. During the peak seasons, accommodation costs around $5 whereas price can go down up to $2 in off seasons. Some luxury tea houses in Everest Base Camp Trek can charge up to $50 only for accommodation.

Almost every teahouse has clean and basic rooms, but you have to pay a little extra if you want attached bathroom. Some even have single bed room. The beds are comfortable with foam mattresses, pillows and you are provided with a thick blanket. Remember, always bring your own sleeping bag so that you stay warm enough at night. And yes, don’t forget to bring a pair of earplugs for a good sleep if you are a light sleeper. 

Foods and Beverages

Meals at teahouses are often cooked in their kitchens by owners. The foods are fresh and delicious. You can find a set of menu of momo, pizza, sandwiches, pasta, and other noodle dishes at almost every teahouse. Normally, trekkers choose the typical Nepali Dhal Bhat as it is fresh, healthy, filling and easily available everywhere you go.  The higher you go on the trek the more you have to pay for the same food. The Dal Bhat at the starting of the trek can cost around $2. And the same Dal Bhat can cost up to $5 as you trek higher. For beverage you can find tea, coffee, hot chocolate, juice etc. which is quite similar in every trekking region. Staying hydrated is a must for every trekker. But trekkers don’t need to worry. Bottled water is easily available throughout the trail in teahouses. One bottle of mineral water can cost from $0.50 to $4 depending upon the altitude of the trek.

Wi-Fi and Electricity

Most of the teahouses in Nepal are run by solar power, therefore you can find internet and electricity facility. However, internet and network connections can be slow. Many teahouses have their charging outlets in the dining room but you have to pay a certain amount in order to charge your electronics and use the internet. An hour charge of an electronic devices cost from $2 to $5 whereas using of a Wi-Fi hourly cost up to $1 -$2. If it is cloudy during the day, then there is a chance of power shortage, so make sure you carry an extra battery pack or power bank for your gadgets. 

 Hot Showers and Laundry

Most of the tea houses provide hot showers from a solar hot water system to the trekkers. You can get a bucket of warm water if there is no solar power. Using this facility can charge you up from $2 to $5. For laundry, you can get your laundry done in main villages of your trek which can take from $1 to $5 depending upon your clothes. In smaller areas, you can bring your own laundry detergent and wash your clothes as soon as you arrive and make sure to put them by the fire at night.

 General Tips

• Always try to reach the teahouse on time before 7 pm if you have not booked one.
• Don’t forget to bring your sleeping bag and liner to get extra warmth at night.
• On the higher altitude of the trek, the communal toilets can sometimes be outside the tea house. So, its better to bring a flashlight for midnight toilet breaks.
• Since there are no waters in toilet at high altitudes, bring enough toilet (tissue) paper and hand sanitizers. You can get toilet paper in teahouses but it costs extra charge.
• Always choose to stay and eat the meals at the same teahouse. Owners of the teahouse expect trekkers to eat all their meals where they choose to stay for the night.
• Always research or ask other trekkers for a good teahouse which are reliable, safe and provides good services.

Highly popular for tallest mountains, breath taking landscapes, unique highland culture, beautiful forests and endangered species, Everest region is home to many incredible trekking routes from soft trekking in lower altitudes to longer treks along the high mountain passes. For travelers seeking more challenges, less crowd and journey of a lifetime with unparalleled views and fascinating culture, Everest Three Passes Trek is an ideal adventure that takes you to the off beaten path with some of the most astonishing sights Nepal has to offer. Even the experienced hikers find this trail a true challenge. So, if you are up to take the challenge, this trek has the best of Khumbu in reserve.

Three Passes Trek offers an amazing scenic trails and adventurous crossing of Renjo La (5340 m), Cho La (5420 m) and Kongma La (5535 m) passes that join the four valleys of Imja, Khumbu, Gokyo and Bhote Koshi. Besides the panoramic views of some of the world’s highest mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Ama Dablam and captivating valleys, you can also experience the rich cultural heritage of Sherpa people of the region during the trek.

Considered as a longer trek, Three Passes Trek takes about 18 days to complete. This adventurous trek commences from Lukla towards the Dudh Koshi valley on a well-marked trail and crosses the green dense forest, scattered rhododendron bushes, beautiful flora and fauna, ever flowing mountain gorges and culturally rich villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar to reach Tengboche, a hilltop settlement with its iconic monastery standing sentinel overlooking the valley. From Tengboche, the trail contours on the side of the valley which offers the stunning views of beautiful mountains of Khumbu including Mt. Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Nuptse (7861 m), and Ama Dablam (6812 m). The path descends downhill and crosses Imja Khola to reach the beautiful village of Dingboche and gradually hikes to the last village of Imja valley; Chhukung, which is famous for a marvelous view of Lhotse’s massive south wall.

Continuing from Chhukung, the trail passes through one of the three Everest High Passes, Kongma la (5535 m) and descends to the section of scree and boulder fields towards Lobuche. The trail then proceeds towards Cho La (5420 m) along the ridge curving towards west with amazing views of Arakam Tse (6423m), Cholatse (6335m), Taboche (6367m) and reaches Dzongla. Out of Dzongla, the trail heads northwest and descends to Dragnag and continues through the treacherous glacial walk across Ngozumpa glacier to a beautiful village of Gokyo, by the side of an enormous turquoise Gokyo Lake. Furthermore, path leads to Gokyo Ri, a perfect viewpoint of remarkable views of Gokyo Lake, Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu and Cho-Oyu Base Camp.

After the rewarding climb, the trail traverses through the northern shore and slowly ascends towards Renjo La (5340 m) which offers the astonishing views of Makalu and Rolwaling range. The last section of the trail, then, gradually descends on a flat trail marked with cairns and stony steps to the quiet village, Thame and passes through a steady trail strewn with prayer flags and mani stones to Namche Baazar, which then retraces back to Lukla completing the exciting Everest Three Passes Trek.  

It may sound like a cliché but we don’t mind repeating it! Yes, Mount Everest is more than a mountain and the trip to Everest Base Camp is more than just a trek. Reaching to the base of this world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest (8848 m) is the dream of every adventurer. Many Himalayan adventure seekers have already ticked it off in their bucket list and many are yet to do so. As, this trip is one of the most talked about and sought after adventures, travelers and would-be travelers are well versed about the facts related to Everest Base Camp. However, many are not fully aware about all the routes and corresponding time required to reach the Base Camp.

There are actually two base camps on Mount Everest, on the South and North sides of the mountains. South Base Camp which is situated  in Nepal at an altitude of 5364 m, while North Base Camp is situated in Tibet, China at an altitude of 5,150 m. Most of the Base Camp trekking or Everest expeditions are operated on the Nepal side, i.e the South face of the Everest. In fact, when people say Everest Base Camp Trek, they normally mean Base Camp trekking on the Nepal side of the mountain. However, there are many ways to reach the Base Camp from both sides.

Everest Base Camp from Nepal

Everest Base Camp from Nepal is a popular trekking trail and easier to access than other routes. This trail gives you a chance to challenge yourself, discover the majesty of mountains, walk among the Himalayan giants and explore the highland cultures.

1. Classic Everest Base Camp Trek : 8 days of trekking from Lukla to EBC

This is the most popular route to reach the Base Camp. It is a spectacular high altitude trek that starts at Lukla, the gateway of Everest region and winds through the floral and faunal richness of Sagarmatha National Park. You gradually hike through some of the beautiful places of Khumbu region such as Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche and return the same way.

2. Alternate treks: 13 – 22 days

As Everest Base Camp route from Lukla is popular and most favored one, the trail and accommodation gets crowded during the peak seasons i.e. spring and autumn. So, if you want to avoid the crowd, then you can consider alternative trekking routes.

• The route from Jiri is also a well-known Everest Base Camp trekking route. This is the same route used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa to reach Lukla for the Everest summit before airport was built in Lukla during 1960s. This trail adds several days in the itinerary as you have to trek around 6 days from Jiri to reach Lukla/Phakding from where you join the main Everest Base Camp trail.
• You can reach Everest Base Camp through the trail of Three Passes Trek as well. One of the most challenging and thrilling trek in Everest region, Three Passes Trek offers an amazingly scenic circular route that includes crossing of challenging Renjo la, Cho la and Kongma la passes connecting to Lobuche to advance towards Everest Base Camp. The order of the Passes can be any depending on where you start from. The duration of this hard trek is quite lengthy (at least about 17/18 days) and only the trekkers who seek for more challenging adventure choose this trail.
• Gokyo Lake trek can also be a better alternative to reach Everest Base Camp as this trek skirts the Base Camp and continues to the beautiful Gokyo Lake, one of the world’s highest freshwater systems. The views during this trek worth cherishing for the rest of your life.

3. By Helicopter

Everest Heli Tour: Duration – Half a day

Heli Tour is the easiest way for the travelers who wish to reach the lap of this stunning mountain but have very limited time. It is also a luxurious way to reach the Kala Patthar (5545 m) and Everest Base Camp without trekking. The tour makes you marvel at the panoramic aerial views of astonishing mountains, tranquil valleys, quaint villages, glittering snow peaks, Khumbu glacier and many more. It not only gives you thrill and makes your adrenaline rush but also offers you the next level of experience. Everest Heli tour starts from Kathmandu or Lukla and stops midway for breakfast with wonderful view.

Everest Base Camp from Tibet

Everest Base Camp on the northern side of Everest lies in Tibet. An easier way to get to the Base Camp is by car or tour vehicle. You can travel from Lhasa to Base Camp along the highways having well paved roads. This is one of the fastest and luxurious ways to reach the Base Camp and visit the various attractions of Tibetan plateau. Some travelers also prefer trekking from Tingri over driving from Lhasa.

1. By car: Duration – 2 days from Lhasa

Many visitors who visit the Base Camp on north side usually get there by car. It is a two-day drive from Lhasa. However most travelers stop along the way in the locations such as Gyantse, Shigatse or Shekar (new Tingri) and Rongbuk that makes this tour longer and more exciting. There are very good roads which make the journey comfortable for almost everyone. The landscape that you can see is breath taking! If you wish, you can drive all the way up to Everest Base Camp but many of the travelers prefer to walk the last mile which is a bit off road. One needs to be acclimatized properly prior to this journey because of the timeframe. Remember Lhasa itself is at an altitude of 3,656 m! And you will gain about 2000m + altitude within 2 days.

2. By Trek from Tingri: Duration – 5 days

Trek from Tingri to Everest Base Camp gives you an amazing experience of Tibetan plateau, small village communities and nomadic herders. This trip takes you to Lungtang which takes around five hours from Tingri and heads due south, by crossing the Tingri plain and on to the Ra-chu valley and so on. This trail is not commonly used and only attempted by the experienced well-acclimatized trekkers.