Mount Makalu Expedition (8463m )-49 Nights / 50 Days

Climb the World’s Fifth Highest Mountain in Nepal

The Mount Makalu Expedition is a challenging climb to the fifth-highest mountain on Earth at 8,463 meters (27,766 ft). Located east of Mount Everest in Nepal’s Makalu Barun region, Makalu is known for its steep slopes, exposed ridges, and distinctive pyramid-shaped summit.

The expedition begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a multi-day trek through villages, forests, and alpine valleys before reaching Makalu Base Camp. Along the way, the landscape changes from cultivated hillsides and rhododendron forests to glacial terrain beneath some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas.

Makalu is considered one of the more technically demanding 8,000-meter mountains. Climbers should already have experience on high-altitude peaks and be comfortable using mountaineering equipment in snow and ice conditions. The expedition includes time for acclimatization, climbing rotations, and summit preparation under the guidance of experienced Sherpa climbers.

Trip Highlights

• Climb Mount Makalu (8,463 m), the fifth-highest mountain in the world.
• Trek through Makalu Barun National Park to reach Base Camp.
• Experience one of Nepal’s most remote Himalayan regions.
• Follow the standard northeast ridge climbing route.
• Spend several weeks acclimatizing and preparing for the summit.
• Enjoy wide views of Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
• Travel through Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and Bhotia communities during the approach trek.
• Climb with experienced Sherpa support and established Base Camp logistics.
  

Is This Trip Right for You?

The Mount Makalu Expedition is designed for experienced high-altitude climbers.

This expedition is suitable for climbers who:

• Have previous experience on technical alpine climbs.
• Have climbed peaks of approximately 6,500 meters or higher.
• Are confident using crampons, an ice axe, fixed ropes, and other mountaineering equipment.
• Maintain excellent physical fitness and endurance.
• Can commit to a long expedition in a remote mountain environment.

Makalu is regarded as one of the most technically difficult 8,000-meter mountains. Climbers should expect steep snow and ice sections, exposed terrain, glacier travel, changing weather, and extended periods at high altitude.

A climbing permit issued by the Government of Nepal is required. National park permits and other expedition documentation are arranged as part of the expedition.

Trip Facts

• Destination: Mount Makalu, Nepal
• Region: Makalu Barun, Sankhuwasabha District
• Duration: 50 Days
• Highest Elevation: 8,463 m (27,766 ft)
• Group Size: 1–12 climbers
• Difficulty: Technical Expedition
• Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Kathmandu and tented camps during the expedition
• Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu; all meals during the expedition
• Transportation: Domestic flights and trekking
• Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)

Route Overview

The expedition begins in Kathmandu with equipment checks, permit preparation, and final planning before flying to Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal.

From Tumlingtar, the route follows the traditional approach through Khadbari, Chichila, Num, Sedua, Tashi Gaon, Kauma, Mumbuk, Neh Kharka, and Sherson before reaching Makalu Base Camp at approximately 5,000 meters.

Several weeks are spent at Base Camp establishing higher camps, carrying equipment, completing acclimatization rotations, and preparing for the summit attempt. Weather conditions determine the timing of the final summit push.

After the climb, the expedition retraces the trekking route back to Tumlingtar before returning to Kathmandu. An additional spare day is included in case mountain conditions require extra time.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Meet the expedition team and receive a briefing on the upcoming climb.

Days 2–3 – Expedition Preparation

Complete equipment inspections, permit formalities, and final expedition preparations.

Day 4 – Fly to Tumlingtar and Trek to Khadbari (1,040 m)

Fly to Tumlingtar before beginning the approach trek to Khadbari.

Day 5 – Trek to Chichila (1,830 m)

Continue through cultivated hills and traditional villages toward Chichila.

Day 6 – Trek to Num (1,490 m)

Follow forested trails and mountain ridges while enjoying the first views of the higher Himalayas.

Day 7 – Trek to Sedua (1,460 m)

Enter the Makalu Barun region and continue toward Sedua.

Day 8 – Trek to Tashi Gaon (2,070 m)

Climb gradually through villages before reaching Tashi Gaon, one of the last permanent settlements on the route.

Day 9 – Trek to Kauma (3,470 m)

Gain elevation steadily as the landscape becomes increasingly alpine.

Day 10 – Acclimatization Day

Take a planned acclimatization hike before returning to camp for the night.

Day 11 – Trek to Mumbuk (3,570 m)

Cross higher mountain terrain on the way to Mumbuk.

Day 12 – Trek to Neh Kharka (3,700 m)

Continue climbing through forests and open valleys.

Day 13 – Trek to Sherson (4,615 m)

Reach the high alpine environment below Makalu Base Camp.

Day 14 – Trek to Makalu Base Camp (approximately 5,000 m)

Arrive at Base Camp and begin preparing for the climbing phase of the expedition.

Days 15–42 – Climbing Period

This period includes climbing training, acclimatization, establishing higher camps, fixing ropes, rest days, and the summit attempt. The schedule may change depending on weather and team progress.

Day 43 – Trek to Mumbuk

Leave Base Camp and begin the return trek.

Day 44 – Trek to Khongma La

Continue across high mountain trails toward Khongma La.

Day 45 – Trek to Sedua

Descend through alpine terrain and forests to Sedua.

Day 46 – Trek to Chichila

Continue descending toward the lower hills.

Day 47 – Trek to Tumlingtar

Complete the approach trek and prepare for the return flight.

Day 48 – Fly to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.

Day 49 – Spare Day in Kathmandu

A reserve day is included in case weather or mountain conditions delay the expedition. If not required, the day can be used to relax or explore Kathmandu.

Day 50 – Departure

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Note: The climbing schedule, including acclimatization rotations and summit attempts, may change depending on weather conditions, route conditions, and each climber’s acclimatization and overall health.

Accommodation

The expedition includes a three-star hotel in Kathmandu before and after the climb.

During the expedition, accommodation is provided in tented camps. Makalu Base Camp serves as the main operational camp for acclimatization, training, and summit preparations. Higher camps are established as part of the climbing strategy before the final summit attempt.

Meals

Breakfast is included during your stay in Kathmandu.

During the expedition, all meals are provided. Meals are prepared by the expedition kitchen team and served at Base Camp and higher camps throughout the climbing period.

What’s Included

• Airport transfers
• Three-star hotel in Kathmandu
• Breakfast in Kathmandu
• All meals during the expedition
• Mount Makalu climbing permit
• Trekking permits and required documentation
• Government royalty fees
• National park fees
• Sherpa climbing support
• Base Camp manager and Sirdar
• Required oxygen bottles, masks, and regulators
• Satellite communication system at Base Camp (additional charges may apply for extended use)
• Radio communication between camps
• Expedition tents and camp equipment
• Kitchen, dining, toilet, and storage tents
• Porters and yaks for transporting expedition equipment
• Waterproof duffel bag
• Staff wages, insurance, and allowances
• Liaison Officer and related expenses
• Government taxes and local fees

What’s Not Included

• International airfare
• Nepal visa fees
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
• Personal climbing equipment and clothing
• Personal travel and rescue insurance
• Summit bonus for climbing staff
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Best Time to Go

Spring (March–May) – Spring is the preferred climbing season for Mount Makalu. Stable weather, longer daylight hours, and generally favorable climbing conditions make this the busiest period for expeditions.

Autumn (September–November) – Autumn offers another climbing window with clear mountain views and cooler temperatures. Weather conditions can vary later in the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Mount Makalu Expedition?

Mount Makalu is considered one of the most technically demanding 8,000-meter mountains. Climbers should have previous high-altitude mountaineering experience and be comfortable using technical climbing equipment.

Do I need previous climbing experience?

Yes. This expedition is intended for experienced climbers who have successfully climbed peaks of approximately 6,500 meters or higher and have technical mountaineering skills.

How long does the expedition take?

The complete expedition lasts approximately 50 days. This includes travel, the trek to Base Camp, acclimatization, climbing rotations, the summit attempt, and the return to Kathmandu.

When is the best time to climb Mount Makalu?

The main climbing seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is generally the preferred season because of more stable weather and favorable climbing conditions.

Where does the expedition begin?

The expedition begins in Kathmandu. After preparation and equipment checks, participants fly to Tumlingtar before starting the trek to Makalu Base Camp.

What accommodation is provided?

The expedition includes a three-star hotel in Kathmandu and tented accommodation throughout the expedition. Base Camp serves as the main camp during acclimatization and summit preparations.

Are meals included?

Breakfast is provided during your stay in Kathmandu. All meals are included throughout the trekking and expedition period.

How many climbers are in each group?

Group sizes range from one to twelve climbers.

About Apex Nepal Treks & Tours

Apex Nepal Treks & Tours is a Nepal-based adventure company specializing in trekking, peak climbing, and Himalayan expeditions. Our experienced local guides and Sherpa climbing teams support every stage of the journey, from trip planning and permits to Base Camp operations and summit logistics.

We focus on careful preparation, experienced leadership, and responsible travel practices while helping climbers explore Nepal’s mountains with confidence. Whether you are joining your first expedition or returning for another Himalayan objective, our team works to provide reliable support throughout your adventure.