How to Plan Your Makalu Barun Trek in Kathmandu

If you’re a hiker seeking adventure like never before, the Makalu Barun Trek is the perfect choice for you. This 22-day trek will take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Nepal. With Himalayan peaks above 8000m, rhododendron forests, and the diverse world of vegetation, the Makalu Barun region is the perfect place for you to explore.

Experience

The Makalu Barun Trek takes you to the Makalu Barun National Park, which is located in the Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu districts of Nepal. During the trek, you’ll have the chance to experience the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, including the world’s 5th highest mountain, Mount Makalu. You’ll also get to explore a diverse range of vegetation, stunning views, and valleys, making your trip the experience of a lifetime.

Highlights

The Makalu Barun Trek is a strenuous trek that takes 22 days to complete, but it’s well worth the effort. The highlights of the trek include:

• Trekking through forests filled with a variety of flowers, including rhododendron and orchids
• Viewing stunning Himalayan peaks above 8000m, including Mount Everest and Mount Makalu
• Exploring the unique culture and lifestyles of the local communities
• Experiencing the remote and untouched wilderness of the Makalu Barun National Park

Itinerary

Here is the detailed itinerary for the Makalu Barun Trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at the airport, our representative will welcome you and take you to your hotel. In the evening, we’ll brief you about the trek and enjoy a nice dinner. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

After breakfast, we’ll start the Kathmandu tour. This city is incredibly diverse, with a rich Newari culture, centuries-old Hindu and Buddhist cultural sites, and a plethora of ancient monuments. Kathmandu is also the capital of Nepal and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. During the tour, we’ll visit some of the city’s most famous sites, such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3: Domestic Flight to Tumlingtar and Trek to Kartiki Ghat (2300m/7,540ft)

Today, we’ll take a domestic flight to Tumlingtar, located in the eastern part of Nepal. From Tumlingtar, we’ll start our trek and head towards Kartiki Ghat, a small village on the banks of the Arun River. The trail will take us through lush forests and farmland, and we’ll cross several suspension bridges. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 4: Trek to Gothey (2700m/8,858ft)

Today’s trail will take us through small villages and lush forests filled with rhododendron and oak trees. We’ll cross several rivers and small streams, and the path will gradually ascend towards Gothey. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 5: Trek to Dobato (3700m/12,136ft)

The trail today will take us through rhododendron forests and meadows with stunning views of Himalayan peaks. We’ll cross the Barun River and trek along its banks towards Dobato. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 6: Trek to Yangri Kharka (3,557m/11,670ft)

The trail today will take us through forests of silver fir, hemlock, and juniper. We’ll also get to see stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Makalu. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Yangri Kharka

Today is an acclimatization day, and we’ll take a short hike to nearby hills to help our bodies adjust to the altitude. We’ll also have some free time to relax and enjoy the beautiful views. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 8: Trek to Langmale (4,400m/14,436ft)

Today’s trail will take us through high altitude meadows and rocky terrain. We’ll see stunning views of Himalayan peaks above 8000m, and if we’re lucky, we might even spot some wildlife, such as the Himalayan Tahr or the Blue Sheep. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 9: Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m/15,978ft)

Today, we’ll trek towards the Makalu Base Camp, which will be the highest point of our trek. Along the way, we’ll cross several glaciers and rocky terrain, making our way towards the stunning views of Mount Makalu. Overnight stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 10-21: Makalu Base Camp to Tumlingtar

We’ll spend the next 12 days trekking back towards Tumlingtar. On the way, we’ll pass through several small villages, forests, and open meadows. Each day, we’ll climb or descend an average of 400-500 meters, making our way back to Tumlingtar. Overnight stay in local guesthouses.

Day 22: Flight from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu

Today, we’ll take a domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our representative will take you to your hotel. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Essential Information

Here’s some essential information that you need to know before planning your Makalu Barun Trek:

• Physical fitness: The Makalu Barun Trek is a strenuous trek that requires good physical fitness. You should be able to walk for 6-7 hours a day on average.
• Best time to visit: The best time to go on the Makalu Barun Trek is from September to November and from March to May.
• Accommodation: During the trek, you’ll stay in local guesthouses where you’ll have a basic, shared room with a squat toilet. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel with all modern amenities.
• Booking: You can book the Makalu Barun Trek online here.

Book Your Tour Now

The Makalu Barun Trek is an adventure like no other. With stunning Himalayan peaks, diverse vegetation, and a unique culture, this trek is perfect for hikers seeking adventure. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trek and that you’re ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is famous for its temples, monuments, and historical sites. If you are planning to visit Kathmandu, Nepal, then you may have some questions in your mind. In this blog post, we have tried to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Kathmandu.

1. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November and from February to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the Himalayan mountains during these months.

2. How do I get to Kathmandu?

You can reach Kathmandu by air, road, or rail. The Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is well-connected to major cities in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. You can also reach Kathmandu by road from India and Tibet. However, there are no railway lines in Nepal.

3. What are the popular tourist attractions in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many tourist attractions in the city. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kathmandu include:

• Pashupatinath Temple
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Swayambhunath Temple
• Durbar Square
• Thamel

4. What is the local language in Kathmandu?

Nepali is the official language of Nepal, including Kathmandu. However, English is widely spoken in the city, especially in tourist areas. You can also find people who speak Hindi and other regional languages.

5. What is the currency of Nepal, and where can I exchange money in Kathmandu?

The currency of Nepal is Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange money at the airport, banks, and authorized money exchange counters. There are also many ATMs in Kathmandu where you can withdraw cash.

6. What is the food like in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu offers a variety of cuisine to its visitors. You can find traditional Nepali food, as well as international cuisine. Some of the popular Nepali dishes that you must try in Kathmandu include Momo, Dal Bhat, and Newari Khaja Set.

7. What is the nightlife like in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a vibrant nightlife, especially in the Thamel area. There are many bars, clubs, and live music venues in the city where you can enjoy the night. However, it is important to be cautious and avoid going to unfamiliar places alone.

8. How can I stay safe in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is generally a safe city, but it is important to take some precautions while traveling. Always carry your belongings with you and avoid carrying expensive items like jewelry and cash. Also, be cautious while taking taxis and avoid traveling alone at night.

9. What is the dress code in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a conservative culture, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. While visiting temples and other religious sites, it is important to dress modestly and cover your head and shoulders. It is also recommended to dress modestly in public places.

10. What are the transportation options in Kathmandu?

There are many transportation options in Kathmandu, including taxis, buses, and motorcycles. You can also explore the city on foot or rent a bicycle. However, it is important to be cautious while traveling by road and avoid overcrowded vehicles. In conclusion, Kathmandu is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage. We hope that this FAQ post has answered some of your questions about Kathmandu and has helped you plan your trip better. Remember to take some necessary precautions while traveling and respect the local customs and traditions.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is one of the most culturally rich and historic cities in the world. As a tourist, you’ll always find something or the other to do and explore in this beautiful and bustling Nepalese city. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor, we’ve curated a list of activities and places to visit to help you make the most of your time in Kathmandu. Follow these steps to ensure your itinerary is packed with incredible experiences!

Step 1: Explore Durbar Square and its surrounding areas

Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the historic heart of Kathmandu. It is home to several ancient temples, courtyards, and shrines, and is a must-visit tourist attraction for anyone traveling to Kathmandu. Some of the key attractions in Durbar Square include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the Kumari Chowk – where you can see a living goddess, and the Taleju Temple. There are several tours available that can help guide you through Durbar Square, and allow you to explore the surrounding areas.

Step 2: Head to Swayambhunath Stupa – the Monkey Temple

Swayambhunath Stupa, commonly known as the Monkey Temple, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kathmandu. This ancient Buddhist temple sits on top of a hill and offers breathtaking views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. To get there, you’ll need to climb up a steep hill and a set of stairs, but the journey is well worth it. Make sure to keep an eye out for the mischievous monkeys that roam the area.

Step 3: Visit the Pashupatinath Temple

The Pashupatinath Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River. It is considered one of the most sacred temples in Nepal and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful architecture, religious ceremonies, and stunning location.

Step 4: Explore the old streets of Thamel

Thamel is the commercial hub of Kathmandu and is home to several shops, bars, and cafes. It is a great place to go shopping for souvenirs, clothes, shoes, and other knick-knacks. Thamel is also known for its lively nightlife and is a great place to go out and explore if you’re looking for a fun and exciting evening.

Step 5: Go for a trek in the Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley is surrounded by several beautiful snow-capped peaks and is a great place for trekking enthusiasts. Some of the best treks in the Kathmandu Valley include the Shivapuri Hiking Trail, The Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking Trail, and the Sundarijal Hiking Trail. These treks vary in difficulty and offer a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Step 6: Learn the art of making momos

Momos are a staple food in Nepal and are a must-try for anyone visiting Kathmandu. These delicious dumplings are filled with meat or vegetables and are served steaming hot with spicy dipping sauce. Many organizations offer cooking classes where you can learn the art of making momos and try your hand at making them yourself.

Step 7: Attend a cultural event or festival

Kathmandu is known for its rich culture and traditions, and there are several cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Some of the popular festivals include Holi, Diwali, and Teej. Attending one of these events or festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in Nepalese culture and learn more about the traditions and beliefs of the country.

Step 8: Relax and unwind at a spa or yoga center

Kathmandu boasts several spas and yoga centers, which offer a range of therapies, treatments, and yoga classes. These centers provide a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring the city.

Book Your Tour Now

With so much to explore and experience, Kathmandu truly is a traveler’s paradise. Whether you’re interested in exploring the historic monuments, trekking in the valley, or just relaxing and trying out some delicious food, Kathmandu has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure!