Makalu Basecamp Trek - Classic Nepal Trekking
- A trekking holiday to basecamp of the world`s 5th highest peak
- Trek across the Shipton Col to the south side of Makalu
- Rare mountain views of the Kangshung face on Everest from Nepal
- Remote area of the Nepal Himalaya with few other trekkers
- A classic trekking holiday in Nepal
Makalu (8481m), the world's fifth highest summit, is normally climbed from a basecamp at Sherson (c.4700m), a lovely high grazing area close to the tip of the Barun Glacier and surrounded by an awe-inspiring array of Himalayan peaks. The return trek into this remote alpine world is one of the finest in Nepal and is accessed by way of a short flight to the airstrip at Tumlingtar above the Arun River. From here, our trekking route takes us through pretty terraced farmland and a number of delightful villages, before climbing to cross the Shipton La (4229m). At the high points of this classic trekking holiday, the views extend from Makalu to distant Kangchenjunga. We have a full day to explore above Sherson, gaining surprising views of the Kangshung (east) Face of Everest as well as close-up perspectives of the impressive Chamlang and of Makalu's towering South Face. This is a holiday for the connoisseur of Nepal trekking.
For some fantastic ideas to extend your holiday in Nepal, from riding elephants in Chitwan to tours in Bhutan or Tibet - check out our extensions
Is this holiday for you?
The range of conditions encountered on this Nepal trekking holiday will include well trod village trails through terraced farmland, sub-tropical jungle at low altitudes, cloud forest, alpine valleys and high mountain passes. The holiday has been given a fairly high grade on account of the remoteness of the trek and the large altitude gains dictated by available campsites. On average, we will walk for 6 hours each day. Despite the fact that relatively few trekkers visit this area, the paths are reasonably good throughout. We will encounter slippery forest trails, steep sections of stone steps and, whilst exploring above Sherson, loose scree and boulders. It should be noted that trekking at elevations above 3000 metres is of itself physically demanding. However, this trek should be well within the capabilities of any regular hiker or hill-walker.
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