Industry & Tourism

Makalu Base Camp Trek: Cost, Difficulty, Permits & Itinerary (2026 Guide)

Everything you need to plan the Makalu Base Camp Trek — the remote 18-day journey to the foot of the world's fifth-highest mountain that Nepal's PM…

By Laxman Rawal · Jun 20, 2026

Read the full story

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…

Travel Himalaya Nepal · News

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…

Travel Himalaya Nepal · News

Cost, permits & access

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 and a licensed guide (mandatory on Nepal's trails). A fully supported trek — guide, porters, permits…

Travel Himalaya Nepal · News

Plan your trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek — 18 Days

NMA-certified guides · permits sorted · 5,000+ treks since 1998.

From $2500

Plan this trek