The Makalu region is Nepal at its wildest. Here, the world’s fifth highest peak (8,485 m) towers over Makalu Barun National Park. This park protects everything from steamy river valleys to glacier basins. Few trekkers come this far east, so you often have the trail to yourself.
Spade Himalaya runs the 18 day Makalu Base Camp Trek here. The route climbs through Rai and Sherpa villages, cloud forest, and high pasture. Finally, it reaches Makalu Base Camp at 4,870 m, with Everest and Lhotse on the skyline.
Because the area is remote, lodges stay simple and days run long. Therefore we grade this trek 4 of 5 on the Spade Trek Difficulty Scale. The best windows are March to May and October to November.
For permits, you need the Makalu Barun National Park entry and the local municipality fee. As always, our team handles the paperwork. Read our Makalu Base Camp guide to plan the full journey.
Makalu region: At a Glance
| Treks | 1 (Makalu Base Camp, 18 days) |
| Price | On request |
| Highest point | Makalu Base Camp 4,870 m |
| Best seasons | March to May, October to November |
| Permits | Makalu Barun National Park + local municipality fee |
| Difficulty | 4 on the Spade Trek Difficulty Scale |
FAQs
How hard is the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
It rates 4 on the Spade Trek Difficulty Scale. The trail includes long climbs, simple lodges, and eighteen days on foot. So this trek suits people with previous multi day trekking experience. Our difficulty guide explains each stage.
Why choose Makalu over Everest or Annapurna?
Solitude. Makalu sees a tiny fraction of the visitors, yet the scenery rivals anything in Nepal. From base camp, you even look out at Everest and Lhotse. Read our Makalu vs Everest comparison for an honest verdict.
When should I trek in the Makalu region?
March to May and October to November offer the most stable weather. In these months you get clear peaks and open high trails. The monsoon makes the eastern valleys very wet, so summer is best avoided.
