Records & People

PM Balen Shah Puts the Makalu Base Camp Trek on the World Map

Nepal's Prime Minister Balen Shah showcased the Makalu Base Camp Trek to millions — the 17–18 day journey to the foot of the world's fifth-highest…

By Laxman Rawal · Jun 27, 2026

Read the full story

When the world's youngest head of government posts a trek to hundreds of thousands of people, the trail it features stops being a secret. That is exactly what happened when Nepal's Prime Minister, Balendra "Balen" Shah, shared a film of the Makalu Base Camp…

Travel Himalaya Nepal · News

Into the Barun Valley

The Makalu Base Camp trek begins with a flight to Tumlingtar and a drive to Num, then climbs through the pristine Arun Valley — one of Nepal's most biodiverse corridors — before crossing the Shipton La ridge into the glacial amphitheatre of the Barun. There…

Travel Himalaya Nepal · News

Permits, season and who it suits

You will need a Makalu-Barun National Park entry permit (USD 30) and a TIMS card, both of which we arrange, along with the mandatory licensed guide. With a 5,000 m base camp and the 4,216 m Shipton La to cross, this is a trek for fit, experienced walkers with…

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

Free guide

Get the free Nepal Trek Insider Guide

Permits, costs, seasons and routes — the essentials we send every traveller, plus a free, no-obligation trip quote.

↑ Swipe up

Your free Nepal trek kit

Read the full report and grab the free Nepal Trek Insider Guide — or ask our Pokhara team for a tailored, no-obligation quote.

Read more & get the free guide Plan my trip — free quote Browse Makalu Base Camp Trek — 18 Days