Mt Makalu Expedition (8,485m)
Mt. Makalu Climbing Expedition: Conquer the World's Fifth-Highest Peak
Overview
Embark on a thrilling adventure to Mt. Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,485 meters (27,838 feet). Located in the eastern region of Nepal, this challenging expedition promises breathtaking views, technical climbing experiences, and a chance to explore the pristine beauty of the Himalayas.
Why Choose Our Mt. Makalu Expedition?
Our Mt. Makalu Climbing Expedition is designed for experienced climbers seeking an unparalleled adventure. We offer:
Expert Guidance: Led by seasoned guides with extensive experience in high-altitude climbs.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Carefully planned to ensure acclimatization and safety.
Top-Notch Equipment: High-quality gear to tackle the demanding conditions of Mt. Makalu.
Supportive Team: Our dedicated team provides support and assistance throughout the climb.
Climbing Details
Climbing Mt. Makalu requires technical skills and physical endurance. Our expedition includes:
Advanced Climbing Techniques: Learn and apply advanced climbing techniques.
Safety Measures: Comprehensive safety protocols to ensure a secure ascent.
Weather Monitoring: Constant weather updates to plan summit attempts.
What to Bring
Ensure you pack the following essentials:
Technical climbing gear (ice axes, crampons, etc.)
High-altitude clothing and sleeping gear
Personal medications and first aid supplies
Prepare for Your Adventure
Physical Preparation: Engage in rigorous training and conditioning.
Medical Check-Up: Consult with a physician for high-altitude fitness.
Book Your Expedition
Ready to take on the challenge of Mt. Makalu? Contact us today to book your expedition or for more information. Our team is here to help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Fixed Departure Dates
| Trip Date | Seats Remaining | |
|---|---|---|
| October 1 - October 31 | 10 Seats Left | Book Now |
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Activity: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Meet with your expedition team for a briefing.
Highlights: Explore local markets and prepare for your journey.
Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Exploration and Preparation
Activity: Complete necessary permits and gear check. Explore Kathmandu’s cultural sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Durbar Square.
Highlights: Experience Nepalese culture and finalize expedition preparations.
Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Fly to Tumlingtar
Activity: Take a scenic flight to Tumlingtar, a gateway to the Makalu region. Transfer to a local guesthouse.
Highlights: Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas during the flight.
Accommodation: Local guesthouse in Tumlingtar.
Trek to Num (1,560m / 5,118ft)
Activity: Begin your trek towards Num, crossing diverse landscapes and local villages.
Highlights: Traverse through terraced fields and lush forests.
Accommodation: Tea house in Num.
Trek to Sedua (1,540m / 5,050ft)
Activity: Continue trekking to Sedua, passing through small villages and beautiful scenery.
Highlights: Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and stunning natural beauty.
Accommodation: Tea house in Sedua.
Seduwa to Tashigaon (2,100m/6,890ft): 4-5 hours:::
We shall begin our trek with the checking up of our permits at the entry checkpoint in this village and then ascend through the rhododendron and bamboo forest to move out of the valley. Navigate the ways through terraced fields to settle Manigaon. Here onwards, we shall trek through the forest, beautiful farmlands and school to reach the Tashigaon village, the last village in our walk into Makalu Base Camp or before Chhukung in the Everest region. We settle for today in this village, i.e. have an overnight stay in Tashigaon village.
Tashigaon to Khongma Danda (3,500m/11,483 ft): 6-7 hours:::
Today we have a long trekking day before we hike across the challenging pass of Shipton La. We shall begin our trek with the steep ascent through the dense forest with rhododendrons and oak trees. After trekking for some time the trail gradually starts to open up to the view of more rhododendron forest and we shall continue through to the small settlement at Chipla village. March ahead in the trail along the ridge to continue to the destination of Khongma Danda. This settlement has a few teahouse lodges with comfortable facilities even for a tented terrace. Stay overnight in Khongma Danda.
Acclimatization day at Khongma:::
This is a rest and acclimatization day of this trekking expedition before we climb to higher altitudes. We shall be crossing over the formidable Shipton La Pass (4,216m) tomorrow and for this today we shall hike to a higher altitude as well. The acclimatization mantra of climbing high and trekking low must be followed by every trekker and we are no exception. We shall thus be having a climb towards the Shipton La Pass on the Kongma Danda ridge for some time in the morning. The view of Kanchenjunga Peak from Kongma Ridge is beautiful. Stay overnight at Khongma.
Khongma to Mumbuk (3,570 m/11,712 ft):::
Today we shall have one of the most challenging trekking sections till today as we shall be crossing over the Shipton La Pass. After the acclimatization, our trekking for the day shall take us through a steep trail along the switchbacks and some of the most beautiful views of the Makalu, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga mountains overlooking the trail. Through the stone staircase and rhododendron forest, we shall reach the base of Shipton La Pass. Hike in a steep trail to reach the top of the Pass, only to witness the breathtaking view of the Himalayas, cascading hills, and scenic landscapes with green lush forests. The rocky trail then takes us down to the Kalo Pokhari Lake. Further on the trail, we shall reach the Keke La ridge on a steep trail from where the previous ridge of Shipton La Pass seems a little below us. Trek down from this high ridge through the ridge with terraced and cascading hills as well as silver fir forest surrounding the trail and looked over by the Himalayas to reach the destination for today, the Mumbuk. Stay overnight in Mumbuk.
Mumbuk to Tonhe Kharka:::
Trekking deeper into the Arun valley, today we shall initially descend to the Barun River and all along the day, our trek shall be accompanied by this mighty and glacial river till we reach the destination of Tonhe Kharka. Traverse up along the trail, yet in an overall descent, to reach the summer settlement of Temanthang Kharka along the Barun River. Climbing up and down carefully and cautiously, we shall trek through several areas prone to landslides where we shall walk around huge boulders and have some sections with unclear trails. On both sides of the trail, we shall see big cliffs and a couple of prominent caves considered holy by the locals of the region. The trail, after a long slope, now starts opening to a valley after a gentle climb. We further continue through the view of alpine pastures with beautiful flowers dispersed with the spruce trees and rocky cliffs, and increasingly improving views of mountains such as Peak 6 we reach Tonhe Kharka. Stay overnight in Tonhe Kharka.
Tonhe Kharka to Sherson:::
In an increasingly strenuous trail, we shall today take a rest at the Sherson before our final ascent towards Makalu Base Camp. In today’s trekking, we shall trek through the densely forested area with strands of fir, bilberry, juniper, and rhododendron, across several small streams originating on the glaciers at a higher altitude and marveling at the close view of Peak 7, Chamlang Peak, Kongku Chuli Peak and some unnamed peaks, huge cliffs with caves, long waterfalls running down, and summer grazing areas before approaching Lenhmale Khaka. Further on, we have an alpine environment with shrubs, and prayer walls at Ramara though the forest with rhododendrons and juniper and berberis are found for some time initially. Further walking through the grassy plain we reach Sherson, the base camp area for Makalu Peak, with the view of Lower Barun Glacier, the upper part of Makalu’s south face, and other neighboring peaks. Stay overnight in Sherson.
Sherson to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m/15,978ft): 6-7 hours:::
Today we shall trek to the base of the Makalu Peak or the Makalu Base Camp slowly and gradually. In a trail surrounded by glaciers and filled with rocks, we shall continue climbing to the higher altitudes. Accompanied by the majestic Himalayas and icy glaciers we shall reach the Makalu Base Camp. Get soaked in the Himalayan panorama surrounding us and be relaxed at the camp. Enjoy the breathtakingly beautiful sunset over the Himalayas. Stay overnight in Makalu Base Camp.
Acclimatization and Preparation
Activity: Spend these days acclimatizing and preparing for the climb. Short treks and training sessions.
Highlights: Acclimatization hikes around base camp to enhance your climbing readiness.
Accommodation: Camping at Makalu Base Camp.
Day 14-35: Climbing Period
Activity: Commence the ascent with various camps set up along the route. Climb through technical sections and tackle the summit bid.
Highlights: Navigate challenging ice and rock terrain, reach the summit of Mt. Makalu, and experience unparalleled views.
Accommodation: High-altitude camps and base camp.
Day 35-37: Descend to Tumlingtar
Activity: Begin the descent, retracing your steps back to Tumlingtar.
Highlights: Enjoy the satisfaction of completing the climb and the scenic return journey.
Accommodation: Local guesthouses along the route.
Day 38: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Activity: Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
Highlights: Relax and reflect on your achievement. Enjoy a celebratory dinner.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 39 :Departure
Activity: Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Highlights: Farewell and end of the expedition.
Includes/Excludes
- Arrival and Departure Transfers : Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off service with private vehicle for all team members.
- Luxury Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu : 5 nights stay at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu, twin-sharing basis, including breakfast (B/B).
- Welcome Dinner: Welcome dinner in a top-rated tourist restaurant in Kathmandu, accompanied by your guide.
- Cargo and Logistics Management : Full international air cargo clearance of personal luggage, including payment of all necessary government taxes in Nepal.
- Climbing Permit & Government Fees : Expedition royalty and permit from the Government of Nepal to climb Mt. Makalu. TIMS card, Conservation Area entry permits, and all required fees.
- Liaison Officer : An experienced Government Liaison Officer with full equipment, salary, and accommodation during the expedition.
- Environmental Responsibility : Proper garbage management with stool shipment transfer and garbage deposit fees.
- Insurance : Comprehensive medical and emergency rescue insurance for all Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
- Trekking and Climbing Maps : High-quality trekking and climbing maps provided.
- Member Transportation Private transportation for members from Kathmandu and return, using a private jeep, car, or bus.
- Expedition Staff Transportation Transportation for all necessary equipment and staff to and from the expedition site.
- Personal Baggage Allowance Up to 60 kg of personal baggage carried by porters during the trek for each member.
- Meals and Accommodation : Three full meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) including tea/coffee at hotels, lodges, tea houses, or tents throughout the trek and at base camp. Well-organized dining arrangements for all team members and staff.
- Porter Services : Porters to carry personal baggage .
- Base Camp Staff : Highly experienced and trained base camp cook and kitchen helpers as requested.
- Staff Salaries & Allowances : All wages, salaries, and allowances for Nepalese staff and porters, including equipment, food, and clothing.
- Individual Base Camp Tent : Each member will be provided with an individual tent (North Face or Mountain Hardwear) at Base Camp.
- Base Camp Equipment & Facilities : Foam mattress and pillow for each member. Full setup including dining tent, kitchen tent, communication tent, toilet, shower tent, staff tents, storage tent, tables, chairs, and all necessary cooking gear. Heaters in dining tents and other necessary locations. Solar or generator for lighting and battery charging at Base Camp.
- Climbing Sherpa A government-licensed veteran Sherpa assigned to each member (1 member: 1 Sherpa ratio).
- Sherpa Support : Climbing Sherpa’s food, salary, equipment, and clothing provided.
- Oxygen Support : Two 4-liter oxygen bottles for each member, along with one oxygen bottle for the climbing Sherpa. Oxygen masks and regulators for both members and Sherpas, with backup oxygen available for an additional fee.
- Rope Fixing Team : A specialized Sherpa team will manage the route fixing on Mt. Annapurna without additional charges for members.
- High Altitude Camp Services : Full high-altitude support with tents, cooking supplies, gas, and high-altitude food for members, Sherpas, and the entire climbing team across Camp 1, Camp 2, Camp 3, and Camp 4.
- Internet Access : Reliable, high-speed internet access via Wi-Fi at Base Camp (available on a payable basis).
- Satellite Communication : Satellite phone for emergency communication carried by Sherpas, available for members at an additional charge. Walkie-talkies provided for communication between base camp and the mountain.
- Permit for Satellite Phone & Walkie-Talkie : All permits for communication devices are arranged for both members and staff.
- Weather Forecasting : Daily weather updates provided throughout the expedition
- Medical Kit : Comprehensive medical kits available for all members and staff.
- Climbing Certificate : Official Mt Makalu Climbing Certificate issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) upon successful completion of the climb.
- International Flight (From to Kathmandu)
- Nepali entry visa Fee 15 day (Multiple Entry) $30 (30 days Multiple $ 50) 90 Days multiple Entry $125 Visa Extension (within Valid visa period Additional $ 25 Visa Extension After visa expiration Late fee per day $ 5.
- Lunch & Dinner during the Stay in Kathmandu (Also incase early Return from Trekking Expedition Then the scheduled itinerary).
- Extra night Kathmandu Accommodation in case of early arrival or Late Departure, Early Return from Trekking / Expedition ( Due to any reason) Then the scheduled itinerary.
- Insurance Travel and high- altitude Insurance, Accident, Helicopter Medical & Emergency evacuation.
- Medical and Emergency Rescue Evacuation cost of required (Rescue, repatriation, Helicopter, Medication, Medical Test and hospitalization Cost.)
- Personal expenses Tele [phone call, internet, Toiletries, Battery Recharge, Hot shower, laundry, Soft Drink, Beer and Alcoholic beverages (During the trek)
- Personal Equipment packing items or Bag, Personal Medical kit personal Trekking and climbing gear.
- Special filming Camera and Drone permit fee.
- Toilet Soap, Shampoos, Toilet and tissue paper, toothpaste, and other item use to keep yourself clean.
- Internet Service not include During the Trek and Expedition.
- Summit Bonus For Climbing Sherpa Minimum $ 500 For full board Service takers
- Tips for Base Camp Staff.