Makalu Base Camp: Nepal’s Great Wilderness Trek
A complete guide to the remote Makalu Base Camp trek — route, permits, difficulty and when to go to the foot of the world’s 5th-highest peak.
BY LEKALY OPS · KATHMANDUPUBLISHED 30 MAY 2026READ 8 MIN
A trek for the few
The Makalu Base Camp trek is one of Nepal's last true wilderness walks — a long journey through Makalu Barun National Park to the foot of Makalu (8,485 m), the world's fifth-highest mountain. You'll see almost no other trekkers, sleep in simple lodges, and finish in a natural amphitheatre of Makalu, Baruntse and Everest's Kangshung face.
The route
From the airstrip at Tumlingtar you drive to Num, then trek through Rai villages and rhododendron forest to Tashigaon — the last permanent settlement. From there it's up to Khongma Danda and over the Shipton La (4,216 m) into the glacier-carved Barun valley, climbing past Yangle and Langmale to base camp at 4,870 m.
Permits
- Makalu Barun National Park entry permit (~USD 30).
- Makalu Rural Municipality permit (~USD 20), issued at Num/Seduwa.
- A licensed guide is mandatory under Nepal's 2023 rules.
Difficulty
Strenuous. Expect long days, big ascents and descents around the Shipton La, high altitude and basic facilities with no quick exits. Previous multi-day trekking experience and strong fitness are important.
Best season & duration
Go in October–November or April–May; the monsoon is wet and leech-prone in the lower forest, and winter brings heavy snow to the Barun. Budget 15–22 days including the flights to and from the east.