The Makalu Base Camp trek in 2026, what it costs, how hard it is and the permits you need

Since Nepal's Prime Minister showcased the Makalu Base Camp Trek to hundreds of thousands of people, searches for this once-obscure route have surged. If you are one of the trekkers now wondering how to actually do it, here is the complete, honest 2026 guide — cost, difficulty, permits, timing and the route to the foot of the world's fifth-highest mountain.

How hard is it?

Makalu is a genuine wilderness expedition, tougher than Everest Base Camp in feel if not in altitude. You face big daily ascents (the climb to Khongma gains over 1,400m), long days, and basic accommodation in the upper valley. There is no Lukla-style quick exit and far fewer lodges — which is exactly why it stays pristine. You need solid fitness, good acclimatisation and a sense of adventure, but no technical climbing skills.

Cost, permits & access

Getting there

Access begins with a flight to Tumlingtar in eastern Nepal, then a drive to the Num trailhead. You will need a Makalu Barun National Park entry permit (NPR 3,000), a TIMS card (NPR 2,000) and a licensed guide (mandatory on Nepal's trails). A fully supported trek — guide, porters, permits, lodging and the domestic flights — costs US$2,850 solo with us, falling to US$2,100 each in a group of eight or more. Because the region is remote, going with an organised operator is not optional; it is how you stay safe and supplied.

The route, in one paragraph

From the Num trailhead the path drops to the Arun and climbs to Seduwa, where you enter Makalu Barun National Park. Above Tashigaon it crosses the Shipton La, at a little over 4,100m, then descends into the upper Barun Valley and follows it north to base camp at about 4,870m, under Makalu’s south face. It is an in-and-out route: you come back the way you went, so budget roughly 18 to 22 days door to door. Lodges exist but are basic and far apart above Seduwa.

Source: Travel Himalaya Nepal operations; trek facts per our published itinerary.

Cover photo: mckaysavage [3] via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0).