Trekking · Makalu
Makalu Trekking Guide
Permits, route, fitness and self-sufficiency for the Makalu Base Camp trek — planning eastern Nepal's wildest remote route.
The Makalu Base Camp trek is one of Nepal's most rewarding wilderness routes — and one of its most demanding. This practical trekking guide covers the permits, route, fitness and self-sufficiency you need to plan a safe trip into the wild country around the world's fifth-highest peak.
Permits and paperwork
You need two key documents: a Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and a TIMS card. Both are arranged in Kathmandu or in Khandbari bazaar before the trek and are checked at the Seduwa park gate and trail checkpoints. Sort them early, carry copies, and confirm current fees with your operator, as rates change.
The route at a glance
The trek runs from the Num and Seduwa trailheads up over the Shipton La and Keke La passes into the Barun Valley, then along the river to base camp beneath Makalu. The full Makalu Base Camp trek route typically takes 18 to 22 days return including Tumlingtar flights. Build in spare days for weather on the passes and for acclimatisation.
Fitness and acclimatisation
This is a route for fit, experienced trekkers. Days are long, ascents and descents are steep, and the high passes top out above 4,000 metres. Ascend gradually, take rest days, stay hydrated, and read our guide to altitude sickness in Nepal so you can recognise the warning signs early.
Guides, porters and self-sufficiency
Because lodges thin out above Seduwa, most trekkers travel with a licensed guide, porters and camping support for the upper valley. A good team handles navigation, permits, cooking and safety in terrain where help is far away. Stock all essentials in Khandbari, since resupply higher up is minimal — see where to stay in Makalu for the accommodation realities.
Packing essentials
- Warmth: A four-season sleeping bag and proper insulating layers for sub-zero nights.
- Wet and dry: Waterproofs and quick-dry clothing for the humid lower forest, plus leech protection in shoulder seasons.
- Footwear: Broken-in, sturdy boots for steep, rough trails.
- Safety kit: First aid, water treatment, sun protection and a headtorch; see the full Nepal packing list.
Good to know
- Season: Trek in autumn or spring — see the best time to visit Makalu.
- Cash: Carry enough rupees from Khandbari; there are no ATMs on the trail.
- Wider reading: Pair this with Nepal's overarching trekking guide for general planning.
Frequently asked questions
What permits do you need for the Makalu trek?+
You need a Makalu Barun National Park entry permit and a TIMS card. These are arranged in Kathmandu or Khandbari and checked at the Seduwa park gate and along the trail, so carry copies throughout the trek.
How fit do you need to be for the Makalu trek?+
Very fit. The Makalu Base Camp trek involves long days, steep climbs, high passes above 4,000 metres and remote, sometimes camping-only sections. It suits experienced trekkers in good cardiovascular shape who are comfortable with self-supported wilderness travel.
Can you do the Makalu trek independently?+
It is strongly discouraged. The route is remote, poorly marked and short on facilities, so almost everyone goes with a guide and porters, often with camping support. A licensed guide also helps with permits, navigation and safety.
What should you pack for the Makalu trek?+
Pack for cold high altitude and wet lower forest: a warm sleeping bag, proper layers, waterproofs, sturdy boots, sun protection and a basic first-aid and altitude kit. Because resupply is limited, carry essentials from Khandbari and plan for self-sufficiency.
