Situated at an altitude of 4870 meters from sea level, Makalu Base treks take you to the heart of the world’s fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mt Makalu(8481 meters). This trek is blessed with a pristine landscape and natural beauty. From this trek, you can see the breathtaking view of the mountains such as Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Chamlang, Makalu, and other neighbouring mountains.
The Makalu Base Camp trek passes through the conservation area and the national park so it is mandatory for every trekker passing in this region to have the permit. In addition, you need to have the Makalu rural municipality permit for this trek. You can get all these permits in a few hours if you submit the required document and pay the fees. It is a very easy process. Also, if you are trekking through the trekking agencies then you don’t have to worry about getting the permit. Trekking agencies will help to get the permit on your behalf to make your journey adventurous and hassle-free.
This trek is possible for the beginners as well as the experienced trekkers. The unparalleled beauty of this trek promises to create an unforgettable adventure, for whoever has visited here. This trek is possible throughout the year. However ,seeing the weather condition, perfect temperature, and observing the risk factors, the ideal time for the trek is during the month of the spring and the autumn seasons.
For the Makalu Base Camp trek, you will need the Makalu Barun National Park Permit and a Makalu Rural Municipality Permit
- Cost for the Makalu Barun National Park Permit: 30$(RS. 3000)
- Cost for the Makalu Rural Municipality Permit: 20$(RS. 2000)
Makalu Trekking Permits For The Children
Children under 10 years old can get both a national park and ruler municipality permit for free but the process to get the permit is similar to the adult. They need to submit all the necessary documents.
Permit For the Solo Trekkers
If you are a solo trekker and want to explore the Makalu Base Camp you are allowed to go up to the base camp only and need to return to the same path. However, if your itinerary is Makalu Base Camp and the route ends in the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Region then you cannot do the solo trek.
You will require a special permit as you will be entering the restricted village area of Kimathangka, Chapuwav, and Hitiya. At least there should be a minimum of two trekkers with permits issued by the local agency.
- Cost of the permit: 10$ per person for four weeks and an additional 20$ per week.
Where To Get a Makalu Trekking Permit?
You can get the Makalu region restricted permit in the Nepal immigration office in Maitighar, Kathmandu. Nepal Tourism Board will not issue the restricted area permit but they will issue you only the national park permit. You can also get the permit at the entry point of the Makalu Barun National Park if you missed taking it in Kathmandu. Required document to issue the permit
- Valid passport with stamp of arrival visa
- Two passport-size photos
- Travel Insurance( Not mandatory but highly recommended)
- Permit fees
Do I Need a TIMS Card For This Trek?
No. You don’t require the TIMS card for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. If you have a side trip or connecting trek to the Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek then it is compulsory to have the TIMS Card.
Makalu Base Camp Peak Season
Spring Season
During the month from March to May Makalu Base Camp, this region receives a high number of trekkers due to perfect weather conditions. The temperature is warm and the clear view of the sky and the surrounding environment makes the perfect visibility of the gigantic mountains.
Spring season means the start of the blossom of the beautiful flowers. In the high-altitude areas, the forest is covered by various colorful rhododendron flowers. This adds beauty to the trekking trail path. Also, chances of rainfall are minimal which provides the trekkers to explore the breathtaking landscape and rugged terrain around the base camp. Therefore spring is one of the best seasons for trekking for the Makalu Base Camp Trek also known as peak seasons.
Autumn Season
Autumn is another best season for the trekkers trekking in the Makalu base camp trek. Autumn season spans from September to November, where this region receives a high number of trekkers due to perfect weather conditions. The temperature is moderate, which means it is neither too hot nor too cold which makes it easier for climbers to climb at high altitudes. A clear view of the sky and jaw-dropping scenes of the towering mountains and landscape make the ideal time for the trekkers.
Even if the probability of rainfall is less in this season we highly suggest you prepare for the sudden change in climatic conditions.
Makalu Base Camp Off-Season
Monsoon Season
Trekking in the mountain region including Makalu base camp we do not suggest during monsoon due to several risk factors. Monsoon seasons have maximum rainfall which can increase the chances of flash floods, landslides, and avalanches. Also due to roadblocks and slippery trails, sometimes trekkers need to stop the trek midway without reaching their destination.
During monsoon, the blood-sucking parasites are also active like leeches and mosquitoes. Also if you don’t wear waterproof gear and clothing due to wet you might fall sick. So we suggest trekking during the monsoon season. Even if you dare to challenge yourself by trekking in monsoon we suggest making a proper plan and most importantly carrying all the clothing and equipment waterproof.
Winter Season
Makalu region in the winter season receives regular snowfall at the high altitudes. The extremely cold temperature and the cold wind make trekking difficult to trek. Also, the temperature can go below -15 degrees Celsius which is not normal for trekking conditions. Although there are challenges while trekking in the winter seasons with the right plan and preparation it is still possible to trek.
Do not do solo trek in the winter, always trek with the assistance of a trekking agency so that in case of any emergency they will help. Trekkers who love taking photographs can get the perfect view of the mountains and landscape more than any other season if the weather is clear. Trekking in winter is best if you love peaceful trails if you are a photographer and for those who love challenging themselves.
Final Say
Trekking in the Makalu is the best alternative due to the increasing number of travelling in Everest and the Annapurna base camp. It is one of the virgin or less explored regions that help to give you a peaceful trail experience whether you are trekking in the months of spring, autumn, winter, or the monsoon seasons. With the appropriate planning and preparation, this Makalu base trek has it all that you are searching for. From the towering peak to the lush forest, beautiful landscape, and surrounding village, it offers you the complete adventure experience.
If you have any queries or questions related to the trekking permit and the best time or booking, please feel free to contact us or whatsapp. We are here for you to provide any additional information or any other details regarding the trekking.
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