Trekkers frequently inquire about the Makalu Base Camp Trek cost when organizing this remote Himalayan journey. This isn't your average tea house trek like Everest or Annapurna, and with good reason. Because the area is natural, less crowded, and off the typical tourist routes, you should pay close attention to your spending.
You may make better plans and steer clear of unforeseen surprises by being aware of the expense. Everything, including food, lodging, and porters, can be more costly than in other trekking areas because of the scarcity of lodges, fewer stores, and difficult logistics.
Additionally, Makalu is a financial adventure in addition to a physical one. In addition to flying in, You will need to hire guides, get permissions, and maybe rent high-altitude equipment. If You are not ready, expenses can mount up rapidly.
This blog aims to assist you through all of the major costs, including guides, permits, flights, food, and even small charges like purchasing bottled water or charging your phone. Understanding what to anticipate financially can enable you to enjoy your voyage worry-free, regardless of your preference for comfort or affordability.
Where Is Makalu Base Camp Located?
Makalu Base Camp is located in the eastern region of Nepal, quite close to Mount Everest and the Tibetan border. It is located at the base of Mount Makalu, which is 8,485 meters high and the fifth-highest mountain in the world. The protected and isolated Makalu-Barun National Park, which includes this area, is home to abundant biodiversity and unspoiled beauty.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Duration and Distance
Depending on your pace, the weather, and the number of days you need to acclimate, the Makalu Base Camp Trek typically takes 18 to 22 days. The entire trekking route, round-trip, is around 150–170 kilometers. It is a long and difficult trek across harsh mountain terrain, deep valleys, high passes, and dense forests; It is not a short trek.
Makalu Base CampTrail Conditions and Remoteness
This trek is special because of how isolated and wild the trail is. This area is far less developed than Everest or Annapurna Circuit. There won't be a lot of trekkers or opulent lodgings. The walk is serene, calm, and occasionally rocky. It is crucial to be ready because in certain places, communities can not exist for hours.
Who Is This Trek For?
Experienced trekkers who enjoy nature, adventure, and solitude will love this walk. If you've already completed well-known treks in Nepal and are seeking something more unconventional, this is a fantastic option. It is not advised for total beginners because to the difficult trail and minimal services. On the other hand, Makalu provides a strong, remarkable experience for individuals who are prepared to leave the crowded trails.
Makalu Base Camp Trekking Permit Costs for 2025/026
Permits are always required for trekking in Nepal, and the Makalu Base Camp Trek is no different. In isolated and delicate habitats, these permits aid in managing visitor numbers, preserving the environment, and assisting local residents. It is illegal to enter Makalu Barun National Park or travel through restricted regions along this route without the required permits.
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit
This trek immerses you in Makalu Barun National Park, a protected region abundant in animals and scenic splendor. The Makalu Base Camp Trek Permit cost is:
- Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 per person (around USD $23)
- SAARC nationals: NPR 1,500 per person (around USD $12)
- Nepali citizens: NPR 100
The permit is available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the park gate close to the trek's starting.
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
The TIMS card is still advised even though the Makalu region is more isolated and has fewer trekkers, particularly if You are using a trekking company in Nepal. For safety reasons, it aids authorities in tracking trekkers.
- Group TIMS (through a trekking agency): USD $10 per person
- Individual TIMS (for solo trekkers): USD $20 per person
Since many companies take care of this paperwork for you, find out from your trekking operator if this is part of your Makalu trek package.
Restricted Area Permit – Not Required
The good news is that Makalu Base Camp is not a restricted area, thus you do not require a costly or specialized restricted area permit like areas like Upper Mustang or Manaslu. This keeps the cost of your trek lower than it would be in some other isolated areas of Nepal.
How to Get the Makalu Base Camp Trekking Permits?
All of the permits will often be arranged for you if you are trekking with a recognized agency, like Nepal Trekking Routes. You must present your passport, travel insurance copy, and passport photos to the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu in order to obtain your permits if you are trekking alone.
Guide and Porter Costs
The trail to Makalu Base Camp is isolated and rarely used. It might be challenging to locate signage, teahouses, or emergency assistance because it is less developed than Everest or Annapurna. Therefore, it is highly advised to hire a guide, porter, or both.
A certified guide can assist in the event of altitude sickness or unforeseen circumstances because they are familiar with the trail, the landscape, and the local languages. You can enjoy the trek more easily and safely, especially at higher elevations, when a porter carries your bulky load.
Cost of Trekking Guide in 2025/026
A professional trekking guide cost will be between $30 and $40 USD per day in 2025. Their pay, food and lodging, and insurance are typically included in this (assuming you book via a proper agency).Therefore, you should budget between USD $600 and USD $800 for a guide for a 20-day expedition. Booking through a premium agency or during the busiest trekking season may result in higher prices.
Cost of Porter
Depending on their level of skill and the time of year, porters usually charge between $20 and $25 USD each day. One trekker's entire pack or two people's combined gear can be carried by most porters, who typically carry 20 to 25 kilograms (44 to 55 lbs).
Porter service will run you between $400 and $500 USD over 20 days. At the conclusion of the journey, It is a good gesture to give porters and guides a tip, typically 10–15% of their total pay, as a token of appreciation for their hard work.
Combined Guide-Porter Option
Some organizations provide a guide-porter, a single individual who serves in both capacities. Although this can save you money, the guide will also have to carry equipment, which can be more taxing and may make it harder for them to provide you with the complete support you need.
Is It Required?
Although It is not required, hiring a guide or porter is strongly encouraged for safety, convenience, and peace of mind, particularly if this is your first trip trekking in a remote area of Nepal. Additionally, employing locals encourages sustainable tourism and benefits the community.
Transportation Costs
Reaching the Starting Point
There are no simple aircraft or direct roads to the trailhead. Getting to Makalu Base Camp is more difficult than getting to Everest or Annapurna. The town of Num, which is located in Nepal's eastern slopes, is typically where the trip starts.
Kathmandu to Tumlingtar Flight
In order to go to Tumlingtar, a small town with a domestic airport, you must first take a plane from Kathmandu. This flight, which takes about 35 to 45 minutes to complete, costs between USD $120 to $150 one way as of 2025. The round-trip airfare ranges from $250 to $300 USD, depending on the season and availability.
Adding extra days to your plan as a buffer is a good idea because weather can cause flight delays or cancellations, particularly during the winter or monsoon seasons.
Tumlingtar to Num (By Jeep)
You must go by Jeep from Tumlingtar to Num, which is where the trekking actually begins.
- Jeep shared: $25–$30 per person.
- Private Jeep: USD $150–$200 (total for 5–6 seats)
As you go through tiny towns, agricultural areas, and twisting roads into the highlands, the jeep ride is an essential component of the experience. Expect a rocky trip because the route isn't paved.
Alternative Routes (Not Recommended)
In an attempt to avoid airfares, some low-budget trekkers take lengthy bus tour and then trek for additional days to get to Num, although this is neither comfortable nor practicable. The journey can take an additional two to three days due to the bad roads. Additionally, it makes you feel even more exhausted before the walk even starts. The most effective way for comfort and time savings is the airplane + jeep from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar to Num.
Return Journey
The return trip follows the same itinerary: trek to Num from Base Camp, take a jeep to Tumlingtar, and finally take a plane back to Kathmandu. In the event that bad weather delays your return, be careful to reserve flexible or refundable flights.
Accommodation and Food Costs
Simple Lodging, High Prices in Remote Areas
The Makalu Base Camp journey is less traveled than the more well-known trekking routes like Everest base camp or Annapurna base camp. This implies fewer teahouses and more affordable lodging choices. Simple timber lodges or family-run homestays can be found in the majority of settlements. The majority of rooms have thin mattresses, twin beds, and common toilets (typically squat-style), so don't anticipate luxury.
Depending on the season and the location's remoteness, lodging rates might range from $5 to $10 per night. However, prices tend to increase a little as you ascend higher and get further away from the trailhead. This is merely because porters or mules must bring in everything, including food, fuel, and supplies.
Some lodges may request that you have breakfast and dinner there in exchange for a discounted hotel rate if you are trekking during the busiest months (April–May or October). That is reasonable, and it is polite to assist the host family when visiting their house.
Meals: Simple, Filling, and Repetitive
The food at Makalu Base Camp is simple but filling. Dal Bhat, which consists of rice, lentil soup, veggies, and a small amount of pickle, is the most popular dish. It has infinite refills and is filling. At lower elevations, this dinner costs about $5 to $7, but at higher elevations, it can cost $8 or more.
Other choices include of Tibetan bread or instant noodles: $3–$5, Egg dishes: $2–$4 (boiled eggs, omelets), Breakfast of muesli or porridge: $3–$5, Milk tea or black tea: $1.50 to $3, Water bottles cost between $1 and $4, depending on altitude.
Fresh fruits and meats are scarce because this is a far-flung expedition. The majority of the non-perishable ingredients, such as rice, potatoes, wheat, and lentils, are transported from lower settlements.
Spending $20 to $30 a day on food and beverages is a wise choice. That includes hot beverages, three meals, and sporadic snacks like chocolate bars or biscuits.
Gear and Equipment Costs
This journey requires appropriate equipment for cold, difficult circumstances because it climbs to nearly 5,000 meters. Even in spring or fall, snowfall is frequent in the vicinity of the base camp, and the weather can change rapidly.
The necessary items are Thick down jacket, sleeping bag (suited for temperatures below -15°C), Thermal Base layers, Waterproof Trekking boots, Poles for trekking, Neck buff, woolen cap, and gloves, A poncho or rain jacket, extra batteries for the headlamp, A 40–60 liter backpack, Reusable water bottles or tablets for purification.
It is fantastic if you already have these things. Otherwise, depending on the brand, purchasing high-quality equipment in Kathmandu will cost anywhere from $300 to $500 USD. Renting is a wise choice for tourists on a tight budget.
Rental Options in Kathmandu
In Thamel, Kathmandu, the majority of trekking stores rent out equipment on a day-by-day basis. For example:
- Cost of a sleeping bag: $1–$2 daily
- Daily cost of a down jacket: $1.50 to $2.50
- Poles for trekking: $1–$2 per day
The cost of hiring the essentials for a 20-day trek might range from $60 to $80. Before renting, always make a test run and inspect the condition. Bring safety pins and duct tape as well; little repairs can save the day in the wild.
Why the Right Gear Matters
You will frequently be traveling through rocky, uneven terrain for six to eight hours every day on the Makalu path. A warm sleeping bag and a decent pair of boots can mean the difference between comfort and suffering. There aren't many gear stores or replacement alternatives along the route, unlike well-traveled ones, so be prepared.
Travel Insurance for Makalu Base Camp Trekking
Having adequate travel insurance is essential when walking in a remote location like Makalu. The closest road or health post will be days away, and the only expedient means of receiving medical evacuation in the event of altitude sickness or injury is via helicopter.
Having a coverage that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters) is essential because evacuations from high altitudes in Nepal can cost $5,000 to $10,000.
What Your Insurance Should Cover
Make sure the travel insurance plan you select for the Makalu Base Camp Trek covers Medical evacuation in an emergency, Coverage of high-altitude trekking (at least 6,000m), Delays or disruptions to the trip, Baggage damage or loss, Hospital stays and medical care.
Recommended Insurance Providers for Trekkers
By default, trekking above 4,000 meters is not covered by many conventional travel insurance plans. A high-altitude or adventure sports rider will typically cost more.
Well-known foreign companies that provide coverage for high-altitude trekking include Global Nomads, Travel by Allianz, Worldwide Rescue, SafetyWing (with an add-on for adventure sports) etc. Expect to spend between $100 and $150 for 30 days of coverage, while the exact cost will depend on your age, country of residency, and duration of trip.
Things to Double-Check
Read the fine print before making a purchase:
- Is helicopter evacuation mentioned?
- Is coverage up to 5,000 or 6,000 meters explicitly stated?
- Will it cover gear loss or pre-existing conditions?
On the trek, always have both digital and printed versions of your emergency numbers and insurance policy with you. Also give one to your guide.
Miscellaneous Costs You Shouldn’t Ignore
It is simple to concentrate on expensive things like flights, permits, and guides when making plans for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Small daily costs, however, can mount up without being noticed. Let's go over the less evident expenses you should be aware of.
Charging and Connectivity
Many sections of the path lack electricity. To charge your phone, camera, or power bank, certain teahouses may charge a nominal price. This rate is often between NPR 200 and 500 (USD $2 to 5) per hour. If you wish to prevent repeated charges, It is a good idea to bring your own solar charger or extra batteries.
The Makalu route has virtually no Wi-Fi. You may be able to utilize a local SIM card with a data pack in areas where mobile reception is scarce. But don't expect to be able to access the internet for most of your trek.
Snacks and Beverages
You will need to budget a little more if you enjoy eating chocolate, energy bars, or hot beverages on a regular basis. As you move up in price, snacks become much more expensive; a Snickers bar can cost NPR 400–500 (USD $3–4). At lower elevations, a cup of tea might begin at NPR 100, while at higher elevations, it might reach NPR 300. You can save money by bringing some snacks from Kathmandu.
Personal Hygiene and Toiletries
Teahouses frequently lack toilet paper, soap, wet wipes, and other personal supplies. Either bring your own or purchase them at marked-up prices along the way. Depending on your location, toilet paper might cost anywhere from NPR 200 to 300 per roll. Additionally, hot showers are rarely provided for free; if they are, expect to pay between NPR 300 and 500 (USD $3–5) for a simple pail of hot water.
First Aid and Emergency Supplies
Bringing your own first aid kit is a good idea, but in places like Tumlingtar or Num, you may need to buy supplies or medication on the spot. Before beginning the trek, it is best to buy altitude medication, blister patches, water purification pills, and pain relievers in Kathmandu.
Extra Tips and Donations
You could be asked to tip your guide and porter in addition to making donations to nearby monasteries or small village initiatives. While not necessary, donations are greatly appreciated. Setting aside an additional $20 to $30 USD for goodwill activities is a considerate move.
Total Estimated Budget for 2025
Knowing how much money You will need for the entire journey is crucial if you intend to trek to Makalu Base Camp in 2025. The cost is typically a little higher because this voyage is more isolated and takes longer than more well-traveled routes. Depending on how you arrange your trip and the degree of comfort you select, the overall cost is categorized into 3 different types.
Budget Trek Cost
Your expenses may approach $2,000 if You are following the budget and handling the majority of things alone, without a guide or porter. Permits, simple meals and teahouse accommodations, flights to Tumlingtar, and a few extras are all included in this. However, this also implies that you will have to pack your own gear, handle all of the logistics, and have complete confidence when trekking the trail.
Mid-Range Trek Cost
A mid-range selection is best for the majority of trekkers. The trip is safer and more pleasurable when a certified guide and porter are hired for assistance. Your budget in this scenario will be between $2,500 and $3,200, which will cover guide/porter pay, domestic airfare, permits, teahouse lodging, meals, and, if necessary, some equipment rental.
Luxury Trek Cost
You can reserve a full-service trekking package through a firm for a more relaxed and comfortable trip. This typically covers round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations in Kathmandu, airport transfers, all meals and lodging throughout the trek, porters, guides, permits, and even emergency assistance. The price of these packages can range from $3,500 to $4,500, depending on the services and operator.
Always have additional money set aside for last-minute adjustments, emergencies, tips, and refreshments, regardless of the budget you decide on. Your Makalu Base Camp Trek will go much more smoothly and enjoyably if you have a little monetary flexibility.
Smart Ways to Save Money on the Trek
Every trekker has a different budget. However much you spend, there are clever ways to reduce expenses without sacrificing your enjoyment or safety. Here are some useful pointers I've learned:
Join a Small Group
Consider joining a group through a local trekking organization like Nepal Trekking Routes if you don't want to travel alone. You can save a lot of money by splitting the cost of a guide, porter, and transportation. Additionally, It is a fantastic chance to meet other trekkers and feel safer.
Travel in Shoulder Season
Prices are higher and the trails are busier during the peak season (April–May, October–November). Trekking in March or late November, when the weather is still pleasant and airfare and lodging costs may be less expensive, is an option if You are flexible.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Essentials
It is far less expensive to purchase energy bars, dried fruits, or trail mix in Kathmandu than it is to do so while trekking. To save money on necessities, pack your own toiletries, a power bank, and a water filter like SteriPen.
Rent Gear Instead of Buying
Renting in Kathmandu might help you save money on things like sleeping bags, down coats, and trekking poles. The majority of gear stores provide reasonable everyday prices for reasonably priced, high-quality goods. Just make sure everything is comfortable and safe by testing it before your travel.
Book Flights Early
There aren't many flights to Tumlingtar, and they can get expensive during the trekking season. You can avoid last-minute fees or cancellations by booking your domestic flights in advance.
Is the Makalu Base Camp Trek Worth the Cost?
It is reasonable to wonder, particularly when you consider shelling out up to $2,000 for a distant Himalayan climb. The answer, however, becomes evident when you've traversed those serene woods, scaled towering alpine peaks, and stood beneath the imposing Makalu, the world's fifth-highest peak.
An Untouched Himalayan Experience
The Makalu trail feels untamed and unadulterated, in contrast to the well-known Everest or Annapurna locations. There aren't any packed teahouses or big trekking parties. Rather, you will traverse swinging suspension bridges, stroll through rhododendron forests, and interact with locals who seldom ever see tourists.
There is a cost to this unadulterated beauty: fewer facilities, more difficult logistics, and a requirement for increased independence. But that's precisely the appeal for people who yearn for an adventure that's not often taken.
- More Than Just a Trek
- Yes, you are covering the cost of your flights, meals, and guides. However, You are actually purchasing an experience:
- The accomplishment of navigating difficult terrain
- The connections you make with your porter, guide, or other trekkers
- The silent moments of wonder as the sun strikes the ice-covered slopes of Makalu
- You carry these memories with you long after the walk is over.
A Personal Investment in Growth
Many trekkers say that this trip changed their lives. In the best manner possible, the solitude, the work, and the connection to nature force you to step beyond of your comfort zone. In exchange, you return home a stronger, more stable, and changed person. Therefore, it does cost money. However, It is a significant personal event rather than merely a trip.
Some of Frequently Asked Question
How much does the Makalu Base Camp Trek cost in 2025?
The whole cost typically varies based on your trekking style, from $1,800 to $3,500 USD. Full-service programs that include guides, porters, permits, and domestic flights are more expensive than budget treks (do-it-yourself or with little assistance from a guide).
Are permits expensive for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
Not overly costly, but necessary. You will require:
- The permit for Makalu Barun National Park costs about $30 USD.
- TIMS card (around $20)
A special permit may be required in some portions if You are trekking through restricted regions.
Do I need a guide for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?
It is highly advised. Compared to other treks, the trail is less defined and more remote. A porter costs about $20 to $25 USD per day, while a guide costs about $30 to $40 USD per day. Employing both guarantees a more seamless experience and safety.
What is the cost of flights and transport?
The cost of a round-trip ticket from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar is between $250 and $300 USD. You will probably require a jeep or local transportation from Tumlingtar, which could cost anywhere from $50 to $100 USD, depending on availability.
Can I do the trek on a tight budget?
Sure, but be ready for really basic circumstances. The cost can be reduced by traveling without a guide and lodging at local residences. However, if you are frugal and bring your own equipment, budget at least $1,500 USD.
Conclusion: Makalu Base Camp Trek Cost
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is an experience of a lifetime, not simply a trip. Indeed, it can be costly, particularly given that the trek is less well-traveled and inaccessible than well-known routes like Everest or Annapurna. However, with careful preparation, you can stay within your means while still having a lovely and safe trekking trip. Plan ahead, weigh your options, and be aware of where your money is going. Look for quality and safety in addition to the lowest price.
Keep in mind that the true worth of this journey cannot be quantified in monetary terms. It is in the serene woods, the expansive mountain vistas, and the sensation of arriving at a location that not many people have visited. Every rupee you spend will be worthwhile if you plan beforehand and remain receptive to the experience. The Makalu Base Camp Trek is waiting for you, so practice your body, save sensibly, and follow your instincts.
