Tour Availability
April-May
Maximum Altitude
8485m
Accomodation
Hotel/GuestHouse/Tent
Region
Kathmandu
Group Size
2 - 12
Trip Type
Budget Travel, Nature Walk, Weekend Trips

Overview

Mt. Makalu, standing at 8,485 meters, is the fifth highest peak in the world, located on the border of Nepal and Tibet, the autonomous state of China. Situated in the Mahalangur range within the Sankhuwasabha district, Mt. Makalu is only 19 km away from Mt. Everest. This isolated peak, with its unique pyramid shape formed by sharp ridges on all four sides, is widely renowned for its striking appearance. The first ascent of this extremely captivating peak was made on May 15, 1955, by Jean Couzy and Lionel Terray of the French Expedition. They climbed via the saddle between Makalu Peak and Kang Chun Tse (the subsidiary peak of Makalu) from the Northeast Ridge, which remains the standard route for climbing Mt. Makalu. However, many climbers have also ascended via the Southeast Ridge, as well as the South and West Pillars. Among the 8,000-meter peaks around the world, Mt. Makalu is considered one of the most challenging. It demands considerable strength, experience, and mountaineering skills. The steep pitches and sharp ridges are highly exposed, posing significant risks to climbers. Proper acclimatization and extensive experience are crucial for the Makalu Expedition. Due to the technicalities involved in climbing, four higher camps are set up above the base camp. Our guides and climbing Sherpas will set up properly fixed ropes throughout the ascent to ensure you climb safely and efficiently. The route to Mt. Makalu passes through the remote and isolated parts of Makalu Barun Valley, which boasts exceptional natural beauty. In the Barun Valley, one can observe undisturbed and rare mountain ecosystems. The exotic views of waterfalls cascading into deep gorges, rocks rising behind dense forests, and the blooming of colorful flowers and vegetation are unparalleled. Therefore, the overall trip is a combination of adventure, tranquility, and an escape from the regular chaos of life. Preparation for the Makalu Expedition As mentioned above, Mt. Makalu is highly technical and one of the most difficult climbs in the world. If you are planning to embark on a Makalu Expedition, ensure you have ample experience in high-altitude mountaineering and have previously climbed several 7,000-meter and lower 8,000-meter peaks. Additionally, train your body for physical strength and prepare your mind for endurance and determination. Virgin Nepal Trek and Expeditionoffers a 1:1 climber-to-Sherpa ratio to provide you with the best climbing experience. Best Season for the Makalu Expedition The best seasons for the Makalu Expedition are autumn and spring, which fall in the months of September to November and March to May, respectively. During these periods, the weather is clear and more predictable. The trekking trail is particularly attractive with blossoms of flowers, blooming rhododendrons, and mild temperatures. However, you may plan your trip for any time of the year. Virgin Nepal Trek and Expeditionwill craft the perfect travel plan for you in any season that suits your preferences.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to the Hotel

Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan intl. airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to get refreshed, evening you'll meet and transfer for welcome dinner.

Day 02 :

Official Procedures, Briefing, and Preparation

On the second day, we will complete all the necessary procedures, such as obtaining permits and other documentation. We will also prepare for our expedition. A short briefing will be conducted to inform you about the technical aspects of the expedition. In the evening, you may go sightseeing and shopping. - **Altitude:** 1,400 m - **Meals:** Breakfast - **Accommodation:** 3-5 Star Hotel

Day 03 :

Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num (1,560 m)

After an early morning breakfast, we will drive to the airport and take a short flight to Tumlingtar, the deepest valley in Nepal. Located in the Sankhuwasabha district, Tumlingtar serves as the gateway to Makalu Barun National Park. From there, we will meet our crew members and take a 4-5 hour drive to Num, a small village in the Koshi region of Nepal. We will stay overnight in a tented camp. - **Altitude:** 1,560 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping

Day 04 :

Trek from Num to Sheduwa (1,510 m)

After a night's stay in Num, we will begin our trek to Sheduwa. First, we will descend steeply for 2.5 hours to reach the Neguwa River and cross a suspension bridge. We will then ascend through dense forests and small settlements, witnessing picturesque crop plantations in terraced fields. Later, we will reach a checkpoint at Makalu Conservation Area where we will need to obtain entry passes. - **Altitude:** 1,510 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping

Day 05-06 :

Trek from Sheduwa to Tashi Gaon and Acclimatize (2,070 m)

The trail from Sheduwa to Tashi Gaon is relatively easy, involving walking through flat surfaces, bushes, and occasional ascents. After approximately 4 hours of walking, we will reach Tashi Gaon, a large Sherpa village decorated with prayer flags. We will set up our camp and rest overnight. - **Altitude:** 2,070 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping

Day 07 :

Trek from Tashi Gaon to Khongma (3,760 m)

The trail from Tashi Gaon to Khongma involves an uphill climb through forests of rhododendron and pine trees. Khongma La is a ridge with a single tea house. We will set up a tented camp and rest overnight, enjoying meals prepared by our chefs and cooks. - **Altitude:** 3,760 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping

Day 08 :

Trek from Khongma to Mumbuk (3,520 m)

From Khongma, we will head towards Mumbuk on a trail that initially ascends until we reach a beautiful lake, “Kalo Pokhari” (meaning "Black Lake"), at 4,004 m. We will then descend to reach Mumbuk. - **Altitude:** 3,250 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping

Day 09 :

Trek from Mumbuk to Nehe Kharka (4,320 m)

The trek from Mumbuk becomes more challenging and adventurous as the trail passes through a section prone to landslides. The latter parts of the trail ascend through grasslands and forests, offering majestic views of Mt. Tutse, Peak 7 (6,185 m), Isuwa La (5,340 m), and many other peaks. Nehe Kharka is pasture land and an exceptional spot for camping. - **Altitude:** 4,320 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping

Day 10-12 :

Trek from Nehe Kharka to Makalu Lower Base Camp (4,870 m) and Acclimatize

From Nehe Kharka, we will ascend towards the Lower Base Camp of Mt. Makalu. The views of Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Baruntse (7,152 m), Kali Himal (6,985 m), Chamlang (7,390 m), and Makalu II (7,640 m) are breathtaking from the base camp. We will spend two more days at the lower base camp for acclimatization and expedition preparation. - **Altitude:** 4,870 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping

Day 13 :

Hike from Lower Base Camp to Higher Base Camp

After acclimatizing at the lower base camp, we will hike up to the higher base camp at around 5,600 m. - **Altitude:** 5,600 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Full Board Camp Service

Day 14-42 :

Climbing Period of Mt. Makalu (8,481 m)

We will then start our expedition to the legendary Mt. Makalu. We will conduct multiple rotations around the higher camps before the summit push. Our team of Sherpas will set up fixed ropes throughout the route. We will set up higher camps and rotate back and forth to consecutive camps for training and acclimatization. When the weather is favorable and everyone is ready, we will head for the summit push. On summit day, we will start early to reach the top at dawn and witness the glorious sunrise. After spending some quality time at the summit, we will descend to the lower camps and finally return to the base camp by the end of day 42. - **Altitude:** 8,481 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Full Board Camp Service

Day 43 :

Cleaning Up Base Camp and Preparation to Return

Virgin Nepal Trek and Expeditionstrictly follows eco-travel and responsible tourism principles. Before returning, we will clean up all the trash and garbage produced during our stay at the base camp and higher camps. After cleaning up the base camp, we will prepare to return to Yangle Kharka. - **Altitude:** 4,870 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Full Board Camp Service **

Day 44 :

Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Yangle Kharka (3,600 m)

We will retrace our path back to Yangle Kharka through the adventurous trail. We will rest overnight in a tented camp in Yangle Kharka. - **Altitude:** 3,600 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping **Day 45: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Khongma (3,560 m)** From Yangle Kharka, we will retrace our path through the landscapes of landslides. After 4-5 hours, we will reach Khongma to camp overnight. - **Altitude:** 3,560 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping **

Day 45 :

Trek from Khongma to Sheduwa (1,510 m)

During our return, we will cover more distance as we descend on major parts. We will trek to Sheduwa through Tashi Gaon. - **Altitude:** 1,510 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Camping **

Day 46 :

Trek from Khongma to Sheduwa (1,510 m)

Day 47 :

Trek from Sheduwa to Num and Drive to Khandbari

The trail from Sheduwa to Num descends steeply at the start and later ascends to reach Num. After passing through a small bamboo forest and small villages, we will finally reach Num. From Num, we will meet our crew and drive to Khandbari, where we will rest overnight in a hotel. - **Altitude:** 866 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - **Accommodation:** Hotel/Lodge **

Day 48 :

Drive from Khandbari to Tumlingtar and Fly Back to Kathmandu

After a night’s stay in Khandbari, we will have breakfast and drive to Tumlingtar airport. We will then fly back to Kathmandu and rest at the hotel. - **Altitude:** 1,400 m - **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch - **Accommodation:** 4-5 Star Hotel **

Day 49 :

Free Day in Kathmandu

Day 50 :

Departure

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Airport pickup and drop transfers by private vehicles from the International and Domestic Airports to the hotel.
4 nights of hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with a bed and breakfast plan.
Domestic flights: Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu for the guide and other staff.
All land transportation for all members, climbers, staff, porters, guides, and the Liaison Officer.
Makalu Expedition Permit and National Park Entry Fees.
Garbage management and shipment fees.
Lodging and meals (three full-course meals per day) during the entire trek.
Base camp provisions including food, tents for dining, sleeping, toilet, and shower, as well as tables, sleeping mattresses, pillows, quilts, and all essentials.
Wages and allowances for porters, guides, climbing Sherpas, cooks, and helpers.
Fees for the Liaison Officer.
Luggage carriage fee (up to 60 kg per member).
Insurance for all Nepali staff and members.
Solar panels for light and charging at the base camp.
Heater service in the dining tent.
4 oxygen cylinders per member and 1 cylinder for the high-altitude climbing Sherpa.
Permits for satellite phones.
One walkie-talkie per member for communication.
High camp service including cooking gas, utensils, gear, and equipment in high camps.
All taxes imposed by the Government of Nepal.
Comprehensive medical kit.
Makalu Climbing Certificate issued by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) upon the successful ascent of Mt. Makalu.

Cost Excludes

International flight tickets to and from your home country.
Nepal entry visa fee, which can be obtained at the airport upon arrival.
Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu.
Extended stay in the hotel beyond the 4 nights included in Kathmandu.
Expenses incurred due to an extended stay in Kathmandu.
Travel and medical insurance for the climbing member.
Expenses of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, telephone, internet bills, laundry, etc.
Bonuses and tips for the climbing Sherpa ($1,000) and base camp cook ($200), as well as additional tips for base camp staff.
Emergency rescue and evacuation (it is recommended to purchase an insurance policy that covers emergency repatriation).
Anything not mentioned in the "Inclusions" section.

Terms and Conditions for Makalu Expedition

### 1. Booking and Payment:
– **Deposit:** A non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your booking.
– **Full Payment:** Full payment must be made prior to the expedition departure date.
– **Payment Methods:** Accepted payment methods and detailed cancellation policies will be provided by the expedition company.

### 2. Expedition Itinerary:
– **Provision of Itinerary:** A detailed expedition itinerary, including daily schedules and accommodation details, will be provided.
– **Changes:** Itineraries may be subject to change due to weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or the expedition guide’s discretion.

### 3. Permits and Documentation:
– **Responsibility:** Participants are responsible for obtaining all necessary permits, including Makalu Expedition Permit, National Park Entry Fees, and any other required documentation.
– **Documentation:** Copies of valid identification (passport) and passport-sized photographs may be required for permit applications.

### 4. Health and Fitness:
– **Health Requirements:** Participants should be in good health and physically fit to undertake high-altitude mountaineering.
– **Medical Disclosure:** Any pre-existing medical conditions or medications should be disclosed to the expedition company.

### 5. Insurance:
– **Mandatory Insurance:** Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation, medical expenses, and trip cancellation is mandatory.
– **Proof of Insurance:** Proof of insurance coverage may be required before the expedition.

### 6. Responsibilities:
– **Guide Instructions:** Participants must follow the instructions and decisions of the expedition guide for safety and itinerary adherence.
– **Local Respect:** Respect local customs, culture, and the environment during the expedition.

### 7. Equipment and Gear:
– **Personal Equipment:** Participants are responsible for bringing appropriate mountaineering gear and clothing suitable for high-altitude conditions.
– **Rental Options:** Rental options for equipment may be available through the expedition company.

### 8. Liability:
– **Personal Risk:** The expedition company and its guides are not liable for any loss, injury, or damage to personal belongings during the expedition.
– **Participation:** Participants join the expedition at their own risk and are advised to exercise caution at all times.

### 9. Force Majeure:
– **Unforeseen Events:** The expedition company is not liable for delays or changes to the itinerary due to natural disasters, political unrest, strikes, or other force majeure events.

### 10. Cancellation and Refund Policy:
– **Cancellation Fees:** Cancellation fees apply based on the timing of cancellation relative to the expedition departure date.
– **Refund Policy:** Refund policies for unused services or changes to the itinerary will be outlined in the terms and conditions.

### 11. Additional Costs:
– **Excluded Costs:** Any additional costs incurred due to changes in itinerary or personal expenses are the responsibility of the participant.

### 12. Travel Documentation:
– **Passports and Visas:** Participants are responsible for ensuring their passports and visas are valid for the duration of the expedition.

### 13. Medical Kit:
– **Personal Medical Kit:** Participants should bring their own personal medical kit, although a comprehensive medical kit will be available with the expedition team.

### 14. Behavior:
– **Conduct:** Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful to fellow participants and staff.

### 15. Final Authority:
– **Guide’s Decision:** The expedition guide has the final authority on all matters concerning the safety and well-being of the group during the expedition.

By confirming your booking, you agree to these terms and conditions. It is important to review and understand these terms before committing to the Makalu Expedition.