Swiss Base Camp
Duration: 5 to 6 hours from Makalu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate
Elevation: 5,250 metres
Accommodation Types: Teahouses
Best time: March-May/September-December
Swiss Base Camp is a great side trek on the Makalu Base Camp Trekking and is at the altitude of 5250m. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of Makalu (8,485 m), the fifth highest mountain in the world. The total time for the whole trip should be between 5-6 hours; 3 hours on climbing and 2 hours on descending.
If you wake early the next morning with clear skies for a few minutes, Makalu will present herself to relax those weary legs. This alone is worth the side trip because its charm will restore any person regardless of how challenging they might have considered it. As there are no technical difficulties and no need to use crampons, only standard hiking supplies are required.
All the same, one gets a clear view of Makalu in the morning, a sight that is inspiring and thrilling for trekkers, notwithstanding the difficult trail. It is a simple day trail, and one does not need to carry much equipment on this journey. Climate fluctuates a lot – the sun may shine brightly in the morning and snow at midday.
Also, doing this hike on the Manaslu Base Camp Trek will help with acclimatization and give trekkers workouts for the higher, tougher trek sections up to Advanced Base Camp. There are no modern amenities available, but the very varied and beautiful mountain scenery makes it a lifetime trip you will never forget.
Main Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of Makalu (8,485m)
- Great acclimatization trip
- Panoramic view of other Himalayan peaks
- Diverse alpine landscape
- Challenging but rewarding day hike
- Opportunity for photography in a high altitude environment.
How to reach?
To reach Swiss Base Camp you start from Makalu Base Camp (approximately 4,870m) and follow the trail that heads up to higher ground. The ascent takes about 3 hours and gains around 380m in altitude. The return journey is by the same route and takes about 2 hours to descend. In total you’ll be trekking for 5-6 hours for the round trip. This side trip is best done on an acclimatisation day on main Makalu Base Camp Trek. Start early to avoid any weather hassle that usually rolls in during the afternoon.
Barun Pokhari
Duration: 2 to 3 hours from Makalu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate
Elevation: 5,250 metres
Accommodation Types: Camping
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Barun Pokhari is a beautiful high altitude lake which can be done as a side trip trek to Makalu Base Camp. It is one of the highest lakes in Nepal’s Makalu Barun National Park, placed at an elevation of 5,250 metres above sea level. This glaciated alpine lake is an ideal place for trekkers to take some rest as well as enjoy panoramic views.
Situated at a walking distance from South Makalu Base Camp, it lies at the base of Makalu mountain range and provides a fantastic view of nearby mountain terrains. The lake gets frozen during winter, which gives the scene a weird touch. This not only helps in acclimatisation but also lets the travellers have a look into what Himalayas in reality are and hence a very advantageous side trip in the Trek to Makalu Base Camp.
Main Highlights:
- Reach High Altitude Lake at 5250m.
- One of Nepal highest lakes Situated in Makalu Barun National Park
- Panoramic view of Makalu and surrounding peak
- A frozen, snowy surface in winter.
- Close up view of South Makalu Base Camp.
- Excellent acclimatisation opportunity
How to Reach?
To reach Barun Pokhari, one has to start from the South Makalu Base Camp and take the trail towards the lake. The trekking is of a moderate level and takes about 2 to 3 hours thus people with moderate fitness can easily undertake this. However, it is advisable to take along a local guide who is aware about the place, especially its geographical location. Also it would be good if you can visit it in the early morning when the weather isn’t too unpredictable.
Kongma Danda Ridge and Khongma La
Duration: 2 to 3 hours from Kongma Danda
Trek Type: Moderate
Elevation: 3,890 m
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea House
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Side trips to Kongma Danda and Kongma La Pass can be done before reaching Makalu Base Camp and the views of Baruntse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga are just amazing. It involves climbing some stone steps through the rhododendron forest for almost an hour to get to Kongma La Pass at 3,890 metres.
On the 22 days' Makalu Base Camp treks schedule a day at Khongma Danda for sightseeing and acclimatising. The 3-6 hours hike up Kongma La Pass for acclimatisation offers fantastic panorama especially.
From Khongma Danda the trail crosses over some passes such as Shipton-la, ice lakeshores before entering into the beautiful Barun Valley. This valley surrounded by towering cliffs and mountains opens out to northward below to Makalu Base Camp, our ultimate destination.
Main Highlights:
- Views of the Himalayan giants
- Acclimatisation hike to Kongma La Pass
- Varied terrain from forest to alpine
- Multiple high-altitude pass crossings.
- Pristine Barun Valley Exploration.
How to Reach?
For Kongma Danda trek and Makalu Base Camp, you will have a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and drive to Num. Further, the trek passes through Sedua, TashiGaon, Kauma Danda, Mumbuk, Neha Khadka and Sherson before reaching Makalu Base Camp.
Hongu Valley
Duration: 2 to 5 Days from Manaslu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: 457 m above the Arun River Valley
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
The Hongu Valley, nestled in the Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area, is an amazing side trip for intrepid trekkers on the Makalu Base Camp Trek. A remote and pristine valley sculpted by Nepal’s most dramatic, Hongu rises from 1,500 feet in the Arun River Valley to the summit of Makalu at 27,765 feet in only 25 miles. The route to Hongu Valley takes trekkers through both sides of stunning Barun Valley and over two extremely high passes, Sherpani Col and West Col pass, climbing to elevations higher than 20,000 feet. This side trip will introduce you to the big Himalayan giants that can be seen only from higher elevations of these two mountain passes.
Main Highlights:
- The remote and pristine alpine environment
- Dramatic elevation change in short-distance
- Explore Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area
- Crossing of two 20,000+ foot passes (Sherpani Col and West Col)
- Stunning view of Makalu and other peaks.
- Trek along the different types of ecosystems and green forests, wildlife and its habitat & different vegetation types.
- Less crowded route than other popular trekking routes.
How To Reach?
To get there, start from Makalu Base Camp and go up the trail to Sherpani Col. It’s a difficult hike, and you’ll need to be acclimatised and prepared for some technical climbing. Cross over Sherpani Col (over 20,000 feet), continue to West Col (over 20,000 feet) and descend into the Hongu Valley. The crossing usually takes a few days, and you’ll need an experienced guide as well as some additional equipment.
Lumba Sumba Pass
Duration: 2 to 5 Days from Manaslu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: 5,136 m
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Lumba Sumba Pass (5,136m) is another interesting detour before getting to Makalu Base Camp. This steep trail was finished for the first time in 2012 and offers a very nice view of the giants – Makalu, Jannu and Kanchenjunga. The trail passes through the rhododendron forest, Lhapsi Khola Valley, and ends the trek at Thudam, a Tibetan village.
It is one of the sections of the Great Himalayan Trail and includes the alpine pastures, cliffs, and forests. This trek crosses through the Tamor and Arun river systems, which are major tributaries of the Sapta Koshi River.
Other than natural beauty, there is cultural immersion in the Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, Magar, and Tamang ethnic groups. Monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags give this virgin track in the Himalayas a spiritual feel.
Main Highlights:
- High-altitude pass at 5,136 metres
- Panoramic views of Makalu, Jannu, and Kanchenjunga
- Diverse landscapes including rocky trails and rhododendron forests
- Clear mountain lakes and pristine valleys
- Remote Tibetan village of Thudam
- Challenging trekking experience
- Less crowded than conventional routes
- Gradual acclimatisation for Makalu Base Camp
How to Reach?
To get to the Lumba Sumba Pass, take the northern trail in the makalu region and climb early in the morning from North High Camp (4400m). The strenuous trail with rocks takes you to a plateau offering beautiful views of Lumba Sumba and clear water lake. Cross over pass and come down in the Lapsi Khola Valley. Next day, reach Thudam village. Proper acclimatisation is required for this strenuous trek with only an experienced guide. From Thudam, trek through different camps interspersed at beautiful places till you reach Makalu Base Camp.
Barun Valley
Duration: 19-20 days
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: Starting from 108 metres above sea level
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Barun Valley is an amazing additional tour to the Makalu Base Camp Trek, which is like entering into a pristine and hidden landscape of Nepal. The trek offers a combination of reaching the base camp with the valley, which presents the Himalayas in its complete form. Barun glaciers, high alpine terrain, moraine, and mixed forest enriched with wildlife contribute to good height variation during this trip.
Main Highlights:
- Views of Mt. Makalu, the world’s 5th highest peak
- Trekking in the remote and less trekked trails
- Rich biodiversity and unique flora. Traditional Rai, Sherpa and other ethnic
- Villages
- High cliffs enclose scenic Barun Valley
- Acclimatisation for high-altitude trekking
- Cultural Immersion in Remote Himalayan Villages
- Tough high passes Shipton and Keke-la
- Exploration Day at Makalu Base Camp
How to Reach?
First, take a trip to Kathmandu, then Tumlingtar to start the Barun Valley and Makalu Base Camp trek. From Tumlingtar, you drive to Num (4-5 hours). The trek starts here. Different villages and landscapes will be passed during the days of the trail. The itinerary includes reaching villages like Seduwa, Tashi Gaon, Kohma Danda, Mumbuk, and Nehe Kharka until you reach Makalu Base Camp. Return the same way down from base camp – Num again, then drive back the same way to Tumlingtar and finally Kathmandu. This remote area needs good physical preparation, permits, arrangements and a local trusty guide service.
Sherpani Col
Duration: 2-5 days from makalu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: 6,180 metres
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Sherpani Col, at a height of 6,180 metres, is another attractive side trip for trekkers from Makalu Base Camp. This Trek is also called Makalu Three Col Pass Trek, which passes through the central part of the Himalayas between Makalu and Everest. It is located in two national parks, Makalu Barun and Sagarmatha, and it occupies different zones, including the valley and the glacier. Trekkers engage in technical climbing, cross the Makalu Arun River, and see mountains, glaciers, and breathtaking lakes. This trail goes through some sections of the Everest Base Camp and provides different views of this area. Though this Trek has high passes and comparatively less friendly tracks, it indeed offers Nepali wilderness adventure.
Main Highlights:
- Cross Sherpani Col at 6,180 metres
- Traverse between Makalu and Everest regions
- Experience technical glacier travel and rope work
- Trek amongst the stunning peaks of the Manaslu and Everest Region
- Travel through two scenic national parks.
- Encounter a range of Himalayan ecosystems.
- Take on one of Nepal's most challenging treks.
- Explore remote and less travelled mountain areas.
How to Reach?
Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. Trek through Makalu Barun National Park to Makalu Base Camp, Swiss Camp and then finally reach Sherpani Col Base Camp. The final approach requires high-altitude trekking and technical climbing, requiring an experienced guide/special equipment (several rest days for acclimatisation required).
Hillary Base Camp - Eastern side of Makalu
Duration: 5-6 hour from Makalu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: around 5,900 metres
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Hillary Base Camp is located on the eastern face of Makalu. It is an outstanding trekking destination in the midst of the Himalayan wilderness.
The trail to Hillary Base Camp offers the first-rate experience of the pure natural grandeur of the great Himalayas. At its initiation, trekkers are greeted with a panorama of ridges and glaciers that dominate most parts of the zone. The track from Makalu Base Camp toward Hillary Base Camp is alongside the western side of Barun Glacier. It zigzags through a ravine full of boulders, caverns and glacier moraines, constantly in the shadow of Makalu. The high-altitude Hillary Base camp lies at around 5,900 metres.
Main Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of Makalu and surrounding peaks
- Trek along the impressive Barun Glacier
- Camping experience at high altitude
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas
How to Reach?
The trek usually begins from Makalu Base Camp. From here it’s a tough 5-6 hrs climb on the west side of Barun Glacier, which is over and alongside loose rocks, caves, and Moraine walk, and enjoying terrific views of Makalu all along.
Makalu Three Pass Sherpani Col (6,180m), West Col (6,190m) and Amphu Lapsta Pass (5,850m)
Duration: 21 to 25 days
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: (6,180m), (6,190m), (5,850m)
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
With Makalu Base Camp, the more adventurous trekkers can prolong their trip and conquer the three passes of the Makalu region: Sherpani Col (6,180m), West Col (6,190m) and Amphu Laptsa Pass (5,850m). This thrilling side trip, popularly known as the Makalu Three Pass Trek, involves challenging high-altitude trekking, joining the Makalu Region with Everest.
On this adventure, trekkers can observe the pristine beauty of the Makalu and Everest regions; we will be walking along glaciers, traversing ice walls and camping in high-altitude wilderness. This trail really offers amazing views of mountains like Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, etc.., plus many unnamed peaks. You also get to see the remote wild side of Nepal in a biodiverse area covering most of the well-preserved park - The Makalu Barun National Park.
Main Highlights:
- Cross three challenging high passes: Sherpani Col, West Col and Amphu Lapsta.
- Technical climbing on rock, ice and snow.
- Panoramic views of Makalu, Everest and other 8000m peak
- Trek through the remote Hongu Valley
- Explore both Makalu and Everest regions
- See a variety of flora and fauna in Makalu Barun National Park
- Take on one of Nepal’s toughest hikes
How to Reach?
To go on the Three Pass trekking, first of all, you have to reach Makalu Base Camp by following the standard Makalu Base Camp trek. For that, fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and then trek through the villages of Num, Seduwa, Tashigaun, etc., to reach Makalu Base camp. After some days of acclimatising at Makalu Base Camp, we moved further to Swiss Base Camp, then Sherpani Col East Base Camp for the Three Passes, a 3-day difficult section. The whole trekking takes about 26 days, starting and finishing at Kathmandu, including Lukla's flight back.
Baruntse Base Camp
Duration: 2-4 days from Makalu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: 5,640m
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Baruntse Base Camp, situated at 5,640m, offers an exceptional side trip from Makalu Base Camp, providing trekkers with an opportunity to explore one of the most remote and spectacular regions of the Himalayas. This challenging 3-4 day trek takes you through a landscape dominated by towering peaks, including Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Makalu (8,463m). The journey from Makalu Base Camp to Baruntse Base Camp traverses rugged terrain, glacial moraines, and high mountain passes, offering breathtaking views and a true sense of high-altitude wilderness. Trekkers will have the opportunity to witness the raw beauty of the region, including pristine mountain lakes like Panch Pokhari and expansive glaciers. Trekkers should be well-acclimatised from their Makalu Base Camp trek before attempting this side trip.
Main Highlights:
- Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu
- High-altitude trek to 5,640m
- Remote and less-travelled route
- Diverse Himalayan landscapes
- Opportunity for proper high-altitude acclimatisation
- Pristine mountain lakes like Panch Pokhari
- Insight into mountaineering expeditions
- Unique flora and fauna of high-altitude regions
How to Reach?
To reach Baruntse Base Camp from Makalu Base Camp, start with a trek to Hillary Camp The next day, ascend to High Camp at 5,650m. Spend a day acclimatisation at High Camp to ensure safe adaptation to the altitude. Later make the final push to Baruntse Base Camp.
Panch Pokhari and Ampulapcha Base Camp
Duration: 4-6 Days from Makalu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: Above 4200 and (5400m)
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Panch Pokhari and Amphu Lapcha Base Camp are great side trips from Makalu Base Camp that take trekkers into some of the most remote and unvisited parts of the Himalayas. This tough trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from rocky glacial moraine to pristine high-altitude lakes, with views of some of the highest peaks in the world.
The trek starts at Makalu Base Camp and proceeds via Hillary Base Camp & High Camp, over the challenging West Col followed by crossing East Col/Sherpani Col pass at 6,155m. It is a long walk but worth every minute as there are fantastic views across Mt Everest, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, Makalu & Cho Oyu on offer too.
The main highlight of this side trip is Panch Pokhari, which literally means ‘five lakes.’ Situated in the foothills of the high Himalayas and towering mountains above, Panch Pokhari is a very special and sacred place for Hindus as well. Five in number, these pristine lakes truly amaze you when the reflection of the shining sun rays on the still water hits your eyes.
The other destination requires you to trek along western mountain ridges at altitudes above 5000 metres before descending to another mystical destination – Amphu Lapcha and its base camp.
This side excursion includes the delight of high pass traverses, the peacefulness of icy moraine lakes, and the perfection of Himalayan monsters—all in all, a definitive high-height trekking experience.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of 8000 m+ peaks
- Explore Panchpokhari, which means five glacial lakes in Nepal.
- Remote and less-travelled routes
- Diverse landscapes of the Himalaya
- High-altitude trekking on challenging trails
- Opportunity for proper acclimatisation
- Pristine wilderness experience
How to Reach?
To reach Panch Pokhari and Amphu Lapcha Base Camp from Makalu Base Camp, start the trek to Hillary Base Camp (5200m). Later ascend to High Camp (5700m). Next day, cross over West Col and reach Baruntse Camp and Panch Pokhari. From Panch Pokhari, to reach Amphu Lapcha Base Camp, trek for around 4 hours.
Sagarmatha National Park
Duration: 4-7 Days from Makalu Base Camp
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: 2,500 to 8,848 metres
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
Extending your Makalu Base Camp trek to Sagarmatha National Park is an incredible chance to visit two of the most beautiful national parks in Nepal. The challenging route (part of the Great Himalaya Trail) is about 140 km long through some of the most remote and picturesque landscapes, culturally rich villages, and high passes in Nepal.
Starting in Makalu Barun National Park, home to the world’s fifth-highest mountain, Mt. Makalu (8,485m), this thrilling trek provides you a lifetime opportunity to explore its less-trodden wilderness areas. As you cross into Sagarmatha National Park, home to the tallest peak in the world, Mt. Everest (8,848m), you can literally see its immense landscape as well as enjoy the vibrant culture before descending on foot back down from Lukla.
Walkers get a chance to indulge in marvellous Himalayan scenery and natural wonders as well as meet friendly locals whose lifestyles have remained unchanged for centuries living in pretty Sherpa settlements.
Main Highlights:
- View of Mt. Makalu and Everest.
- Diverse ecosystems and wildlife
- Rich cultural experiences in Sherpa villages
- An opportunity to see rare flora and fauna of Both National Parks.
- Spectacular panoramic mountain views
How to Reach?
To extend your trek from Makalu Base Camp all the way to Sagarmatha National Park, here is the route: Trek from Makalu Base Camp to Sherpani Low Camp, then on to Sherpani High Camp. After a rest day proceed up to Baruntse Base Camp. Rest Day and ascend High Camp just before Amphu Laptsa. Cross Amphu Laptsa, and you are now in Sagarmatha National Park.
Everest Base Camp
Duration: around 28 days
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: 5,364 m
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
The Makalu Base Camp Trek extended to Everest Base Camp is an epic adventure combining two of Nepal's most iconic treks. This challenging journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from the lush forests of Makalu-Barun National Park to the stark, high-altitude terrain of the Everest region. Trekkers witness breathtaking views of five of the world's highest peaks - Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga. The route traverses remote wilderness, crosses challenging high passes, and concludes with the Classic Everest Base Camp trek.
This extraordinary expedition offers unparalleled panoramas of the Himalayas, diverse ecosystems, and a profound sense of accomplishment for those who undertake it. Begin your journey with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. From Tumlingtar, take a jeep to Num, the starting point of the trek. After completing the trek, you'll finish in Lukla, from where you'll fly back to Kathmandu. Ensure you have necessary permits for both Makalu and Everest regions before starting your trek. If you prefer to do only EBC trip go through our 12 days Everest base Camp trek package details.
Highlights:
- Views of Mt. Makalu (8,463m) from its base camp
- Traverse through Makalu-Barun National Park's diverse ecosystems
- Cross three high passes: Sherpani Col, West Col, and Amphu Lapcha
- Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu in one frame
- Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
- Sunrise view from Kala Patthar (5,545m)
- Experience both remote wilderness and popular trekking routes
How to Reach?
The trek starts with an ascent to Makalu Base Camp. From there, it crosses three challenging high passes (Sherpani Col, West Col, and Amphu Lapcha) to connect with the Everest region at Chhukung. The route then follows the classic Everest Base Camp trek, visiting Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar before descending to Lukla.
Mera Peak - Hinku Valley
Duration: 20-28 days
Trek Type: Moderate- Hard
Elevation: 6,476 m
Accommodation Types: Camping or Tea houses
Best Time: March-May/Sept-Dec
The extension from Makalu Base Camp Trek to Mera Peak Expedition via the Hinku Valley offers an extraordinary adventure that combines two of Nepal's most spectacular national parks: Sagarmatha National Park and Makalu-Barun National Park. This journey is perfect for trekkers seeking optimal acclimatization and the opportunity to reach both Makalu Base Camp and attempt Mera Peak.
The route takes you through diverse landscapes, from the lush forests of Makalu-Barun to the stark, glaciated terrain of the upper Hinku Valley. You'll witness breathtaking panoramas of five 8000m peaks: Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The trek to Makalu Base Camp serves as an excellent acclimatization phase, preparing you for the high passes and eventual ascent of Mera Peak. Crossing the challenging West Col and East Col, you'll traverse some of the most remote and spectacular high-altitude terrain in Nepal. The journey then descends into the beautiful Hinku Valley, leading to Mera Peak. From its summit, you'll be rewarded with unparalleled 360-degree views of the Himalayan giants. Ensure you have necessary permits for both Makalu-Barun and Sagarmatha National Parks, as well as climbing permits for Mera Peak. If you prefer only Mera peak climbing adventure go through the Mera peak climbing 17 days Package details and contact us for bookings inquiries.
Main Highlights:
- Explore two national parks: Sagarmatha and Makalu-Barun
- Trek to Makalu Base Camp (5,100m)
- Cross high-altitude passes: West Col (6,143m) and East Col
- Journey through the remote Hinku Valley
- Attempt Mera Peak (6,476m), Nepal's highest trekking peak
- Witness panoramic views of five 8000m peaks
- Experience diverse ecosystems and Sherpa culture
How to Reach?
Begin your journey with a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar. From there, take a jeep to Num, the starting point of the Makalu Base Camp Trek. After completing Mera Peak, descend to Lukla for a return flight to Kathmandu.
Your Questions Answered about Side trips in Makalu Base Camp Trek
1. What are the most popular side trips from Makalu Base Camp?
One might get overwhelmed with too much information and options. Therefore, we have refined your search and gathered the best side trips from Makalu Base Camp. Here is the list:
- Swiss Base Camp (5,250m)
- Barun Pokhari
- Hillary Base Camp
- Sherpani Col (6,180m)
- Baruntse Base Camp (5,640m)
2. Are there any cultural or religious sites we can visit as side trips during the trek?
Yes, there are several cultural and religious sites you can visit during your Makalu Base Camp Trek. Here's a list of notable options:
- Ancient Rai village of Bung
- Tashigaon monastery
- Sherpa villages along the route
- Rai villages in the lower regions
3. Can we do any wildlife spotting excursions as part of our Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Absolutely, The Makalu-Barun National Park offers rich biodiversity and wildlife spotting opportunities. Here are some key points:
- Visit Makalu-Barun National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Look for Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and red panda
- Spot Himalayan thars and musk deer on trekking routes
- Explore diverse ecosystems from subtropical forests to alpine meadows
4. Is it possible to visit any high-altitude lakes as side trips?
Yes, there are several high-altitude lakes you can visit as side trips. Here's a list of notable options:
- Barun Pokhari
- Tutse Pokhari (Twin lakes)
- Lower Barun Glacier Lake
- Panch Pokhari (Five lakes)
5. Are there options to extend the trek to nearby peaks or passes?
Yes, there are several extension options for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Here's a list of popular choices:
- Mera Peak (6,476m)
- Sherpani Col (6,180m)
- West Col (6,143m)
- Baruntse Base Camp
- Three Pass Trek (Sherpani Col, West Col, Amphu Laptsa Pass)
Final Words
The Makalu Base Camp Trek boasts a list of awesome side trips that enrich your Himalayan adventure. From the demanding Sherpani Col and West Col to the soothing Barun Pokhari and Panch Pokhari lakes, from the picturesque Swiss Base Camp and Hillary Base Camp to the challenging Baruntse Base Camp — all these diversions suit different fancies. Besides, if you are a nature and wildlife lover, then the Makalu-Barun National Park is an absolute biodiversity haven.
Visiting the base camp of Mt Makalu is an adventure in itself. But why not make it even better? Add a few once-in-a-lifetime side trips to your itinerary.
We design our trips to maximize every opportunity for exploration along the way, including some awesome and exhilarating deviations. Our treks are customizable so that you get an experience that's safe, fun and utterly unforgettable. We can help you access all those Rai and Sherpa village experiences if you like, or we can take you over high-altitude passes and camps. Don't hesitate to contact us to customize your Makalu adventure.
