Makalu Base Camp Trekking

Mount Makalu is known for its dazzling beauty, which is located in Sankhuwasabha District in the koshi zone of north- eastern Nepal. It is the fifth highest mountain in the world at 8481 meters (27,825 ft). Makalu base camp trek is one of the most glorious adventure destinations around the Himalayan region, between the high peaks of Kanchenjunga towards the east with Mt. Everest in the west direction. 

Makalu is an isolated peak which is shaped like a four- sided pyramid. The name Makalu is derived from the Sanskrit Maha Kala, a name for the Hindu god Lord Shiva that translates “Big Black.” The Chinese name for the peak is Makaru. Makalu was first climbed by a French team on May 15, 1995. Around 500 people have climbed the mountain. To date, there have been a total of 206 successful ascends of Makalu and a total of 22 fatalities. The difficulty of trekking a mountain trail usually depends on the altitude its lies. It also depends on the time it takes to climb the mountain. In spite of the fact that, the trail is difficult but you will enjoy the amazing scenery of mountains, and green hills on walk towards Makalu base camp where the adventure leads you from low warm sub- tropical temperatures of Arun valley to cooler alpine areas with high hills and into scenic Barun valley.

Makalu Barun Valley is a Himalayan glacier valley situated at the base of Makalu in the Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal. This valley lies entirely inside the Makalu Barun National Park. Furthermore, Makalu Barun National Park and Buffer Zone Area (previously conservation area) was established in 1992. It is extended over Solukhumbhu and Sankhuwasabha districts. This park is administered and managed by Department of National parks and wildlife conservation.

Barun valley is a paradise for naturalists and as well for trekkers where 47 species of orchids and 67 species of valuable medicinal and aromatic plants are found with 25 of Nepal’s and 30 varieties of rhododendron, 19 species of bamboo, including 400 different species of bird life with a rare and elusive wild animal from musk deer to snow leopards. 

Besides its beautiful mountain views, traditionally villages enriched with medieval period villages of mixed custom and people around Makalu region is equally fascinating where the walk leads into typical Nepalese hill villages.

1) Foods and Accommodation

Nepali Dal Bhat is a chief dish with fresh green vegetables curry. The tea houses and lodges provide meals, which are often a mix of Nepalese and western cuisine. There are also vegetarian choices. Makalu trek offers you traditional meals such as momos (steamed dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and tsampa (roasted barley flour) etc are available.

Across the trekking route, tea houses and lodges provide modest lodging, generally with twin beds in a shared room. Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours suggest you to bring a comfortable sleeping bag. There may be common rooms at some tea houses where you may rest and socialize with other trekkers.

2) Local culture and tradition

The Makalu base camp trek takes you through a remote and culturally varied of eastern Nepal, where you will discover a variety of indigenous cultures and traditions. This region is home to a distinct culture and heritage over centuries of living in the Himalayas. They are well- known for their kindness, warmth, and devotion to their Buddhist faith. The Tashilhunpo monastery, located in the town of Thulo Pokhari, is one of the region’s most well-known and biggest monasteries. The people living in Manaslu are talented in variety of art and handcrafts, including weaving, embroidery, and thangka paintings. Beautiful handcrafted products may be purchased in the small markets along the hiking path.

3) Travel Insurance

Any trek in Nepal, including the Makalu base camp trek, demands travel insurance. The trek includes high- altitude trekking, which may be physically challenging and dangerous. Travel insurance can cover you financially in the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a flight cancellation or delay, or lost or stolen luggage.

When buying travel insurance for the Makalu base camp trek, ensure that it covers high- altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation, as these can be expensive without insurance. Depending on your plan, you may also want to consider obtaining additional coverage of activities like hiking, mountaineering, and adventure sports.

Importantly, Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. strongly recommend you for travel insurance for the Makalu base camp trek because it can offer you with peace of mind and financial protection in the event of an unforeseen accidents. Before you buy it, read the insurance documentation thoroughly and understand the coverage.

4) Guide and porter

During the Makalu trek, a Government authorized licensed guide and porter is needed. While choosing the guide, assured that they have guide insurance and well experienced one. A well-trained guide can lead you the best way and make your journey exciting and memorable.

Our guide and porter are a highly experienced, helpful, qualified, friendly, English speaking, well-trained, authorized government license holding guide and porter, as well guide insurance. Our guide and porter are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one. Your safety is our first priority. Therefore, please remember Nepal Holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. whenever you need a guide and porter service. We are always here to serve you. 

5) Best season for Makalu base camp trek

The spring season (March to May) is one of the ideal seasons to travel to Makalu base camp since the weather is often clear and warmth, with moderate day time (20°C to 25°C) temperatures and milder night time (-5°C to -10°C) temperatures. The sky is normally clear, and there is little possibility of rain or snow, making for excellent hiking conditions and breathtaking vistas of the mountains peak and surrounding environment. Around this season, rhododendron and other wildflowers bloom, adding to the natural beauty of the region.

The autum season (September to November) is also a good time to trek to Makalu base camp because the weather is often stable and clear, with dry conditions (15°C to 20°C) and warm temperatures. The sky is frequently clear, providing excellent views of the mountains and surrounding environment, and the paths are in good shape. 

6) Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is common in mountains above the altitude of 3000m. Headache, nausea, tiredness etc are the symptoms occur when your body tries to adjust to the lower air pressure and lower oxygen level. Here are some things you can do to prevent yourself from getting altitude sickness.

Stop and rest where you are

Do not go any higher for at least 24 to 48 hours

Make sure you are drinking enough water

Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or exercise

Eating foods and drinking fluids that contain carbs such as bread, pasta, fruits, milk, rice, and so on. 

Overall, Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd is a reliable and reputable company that can provide you with a safe, authentic, and unforgettable adventure in Nepal.

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