What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, TIMS Card, Climbing permit for high passes (arranged by us). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 5700m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Makalu Base Camp Barun Valley Photography Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Guided Makalu Base Camp Trek Safety, Makalu Base Camp Trek Acclimatization Planning.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Ganja La Pass Gear And Support Needed.

What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, TIMS Card, Climbing permit for high passes (arranged by us). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 5700m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Makalu Base Camp Barun Valley Photography Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Guided Makalu Base Camp Trek Safety, Makalu Base Camp Trek Acclimatization Planning.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Ganja La Pass Gear And Support Needed.

Makalu High Pass Trek

Transportation
Flight / Private Vehicle
Group Size
Max 8
Maximum Altitude
5700
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping
Fitness level
Moderate to High
Arrival on
Kathmandu
Departure from
Kathmandu
Best season
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Guiding method
Live Personal Trekking Guide
Tour type
Trekking
Language
English
Meals
Includes (BLD)
Permits
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, TIMS Card, Climbing permit for high passes (arranged by us).
Destinations
Makalu Region
Activities
Hiking, Trekking
Trip Type
High Altitude, Wilderness Camping
Difficulty
Hard

Map

The Makalu High Pass Trek is the most ambitious non-expedition route in eastern Nepal, linking the Makalu Base Camp with the Everest region via three serious high passes: the Sherpani Col (6,110m), the West Col (6,135m), and the Amphu Labtsa (5,845m). This 22-day traverse is technically a mountaineering trek, requiring fixed ropes, crampons, ice axes, and an experienced Sherpa team to set the route through crevassed glaciers. The reward is a journey that few have completed, crossing from the isolated Barun Valley into the heart of the Khumbu with continuous views of Makalu, Baruntse, Lhotse, and Everest. Trekkers must have previous climbing experience at 6,000m or higher and be prepared for camping nights at altitude above 5,500m.

Highlights

Cross three 6,000m+ high passes: Sherpani Col (6,110m), West Col (6,135m), Amphu Labtsa (5,845m).
Trek from Makalu Base Camp to the Khumbu via the most remote route in Nepal.
Sunrise views of Makalu, Baruntse, Lhotse, and Everest from the upper Barun Glacier.
Walk on the Barun Glacier with full climbing gear and Sherpa support team.
Experience genuine expedition-style camping at 5,700m+ high camps.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival and transfer to hotel. Equipment check and climbing briefing.

Day 02 :

Fly to Tumlingtar & Drive to Num

Scenic flight east to Tumlingtar, then drive to Num, the trailhead.

Day 03 :

Trek to Sedua

Descend to the Arun, cross the bridge, and climb to Sedua.

Day 04 :

Trek to Tashigaon

Climb through terraced fields to Tashigaon, last permanent village.

Day 05 :

Trek to Khongba

Steep climb through sal and rhododendron forest.

Day 06 :

Cross Shipton La to Mumbuk

Cross the Shipton La (4,216m) and descend into the Barun valley.

Day 07 :

Trek to Yangle Kharka

Continue up the Barun valley through meadows and forest.

Day 08 :

Trek to Merek

Climb gradually to alpine meadows with expanding mountain views.

Day 09 :

Trek to Shersong

Continue up the valley to Shersong, below Makalu Base Camp.

Day 10 :

Trek to Makalu Base Camp

Hike up to Makalu Base Camp. Establish camp with full crew for the night.

Day 11 :

Acclimatization at Makalu Base Camp

Rest and acclimatization. Optional hike toward Hillary Base Camp (5,200m).

Day 12 :

Trek to Hillary Base Camp

Move up to Hillary Base Camp, the staging point for the Sherpani Col crossing.

Day 13 :

Acclimatization at Hillary Base Camp

Final acclimatization and climbing skills practice with our Sherpa team.

Day 14 :

Cross Sherpani Col to High Camp 1

Early start for the technical climb over the Sherpani Col (6,110m) with fixed ropes. Descend to a high camp on the Upper Barun Glacier.

Day 15 :

Cross West Col to Baruntse Base Camp

Cross the West Col (6,135m), another technical pass with fixed ropes, and descend to the Upper Hongu Glacier.

Day 16 :

Trek down Hongu Valley to Panch Pokhari

Descend the upper Hongu Valley to the sacred Panch Pokhari (five lakes) area.

Day 17 :

Cross Amphu Labtsa to Chhukung

Cross the Amphu Labtsa (5,845m) with fixed ropes, then descend into the Khumbu to Chhukung.

Day 18 :

Trek to Dingboche

A gentle day walking through the Imja Tse valley to Dingboche.

Day 19 :

Trek to Namche Bazaar

Descend through Tengboche and back to Namche Bazaar for proper food and a hot shower.

Day 20 :

Trek to Lukla

Final trekking day, descending through the Dudh Koshi valley to Lukla.

Day 21 :

Fly to Kathmandu

Morning flight to Kathmandu. Afternoon debrief and farewell dinner.

Day 22 :

Final Departure

Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight.

Things to Carry for Makalu High Pass Trek

Headwear

Warm fleece or wool beanie hat (essential for cold mornings)
Sun hat with wide brim for UV protection
Neck gaiter or buff (multi-purpose for dust, wind, cold)
Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
Ski goggles for high-altitude passes and snow

Upper Body Layering

2x merino wool base layers (long sleeve)
1x mid-layer fleece jacket
1x soft shell jacket for wind and light rain
1x hard shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex)
1x down jacket rated to -25C (we provide rental for USD 20)

Lower Body

2x trekking pants (quick-dry, one convertible)
1x thermal bottom layer for cold nights
1x rain pants (Gore-Tex)
2x merino wool underwear
1x swimwear (for hot springs)

Hands

1x thin liner gloves (merino or fleece)
1x insulated waterproof gloves
1x expedition mittens for passes above 5,000m

Footwear

1x sturdy trekking boots (broken in for 50+ km, waterproof)
1x camp shoes or sandals for evenings
4-5x pairs merino wool trekking socks
2x pairs liner socks
Gaiters for snow, scree, and mud

Sleeping Gear

1x 4-season sleeping bag rated to -20C (we provide rental for USD 30)
1x sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece)
1x inflatable sleeping pad

Trekking Equipment

1x trekking poles pair (essential for descents, we provide rental for USD 15)
1x headlamp with spare batteries (200+ lumens)
1x 20-30L day pack
1x large duffel bag 80-100L (we provide free)
1x dry bag for electronics
1x water bottle or hydration bladder (2L minimum)

First Aid & Health

Personal prescription medications (with doctor’s letter)
Diamox for altitude sickness (consult your doctor)
Ibuprofen and paracetamol
Imodium for stomach issues
Rehydration sachets (ORS)
Blister treatment (Compeed, moleskin)
Antiseptic wipes and bandages
Lip balm with SPF 30+
Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring 2 tubes)
Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and wet wipes

Electronics

Camera with extra batteries (cold drains fast, bring 2-3 spares)
Power bank (20,000mAh minimum)
Universal power adapter (Nepal 220V, Type C/D/M)
Headphones
eReader or book

Documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 4 extra passport photos)
Travel insurance certificate (covering trekking to 5700m)
Flight tickets
Credit cards and USD cash
Emergency contacts

What We Provide (Rental)

4-season sleeping bag (rental USD 30 with deposit)
Down jacket (rental USD 20 with deposit)
Duffel bag for porter carriage (free, you keep it)
Trekking poles (rental USD 15)
First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen
Water purification tablets
Satellite phone on remote treks

Related Packing Guides

Read our detailed packing guides: Ganja La Pass Gear And Support Needed, Gear Bring Australia Ganja La Pass Trek, Annapurna Circuit Packing List Warm Valleys Cold Pass, Rupina La Trek Gear List Remote.

Note: Pack light. Porter weight limit is 15kg per trekker. Layers are key for mountain weather. We send a detailed seasonal packing list after booking.

Know Before You Book – Makalu High Pass Trek Information

Trip Name: Makalu High Pass Trek – 22 Days
Duration: 22 days
Difficulty: Hard
Maximum Altitude: 5700m
Group Size: Max 8

Difficulty & Fitness

This trek is rated Hard. Hard treks involve 6-8+ hours of walking daily at high altitude. Previous high-altitude experience strongly recommended. The maximum altitude is 5700m. You need a fitness level of Moderate to High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises.

Read our difficulty guides: Makalu Base Camp Vs Everest Base Camp Crowds Difficulty, Makalu Base Camp Difficulty Vs Popular Treks.

Best Time to Go

Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.

Read our seasonal guides: Makalu Base Camp Weather April October, Makalu Base Camp Spring Vs Autumn.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Luxury lodges (where available) offer heated ensuite rooms. 3-star or higher hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) included during treks with tea and coffee. Vegetarian options widely available.

Food and water guides: Makalu Base Camp Tea House Or Camping, Makalu Base Camp Tea Houses And Food Reliability.

Transportation

Transport: Flight / Private Vehicle. Domestic flights (where applicable) are weather-dependent – build 1-2 buffer days into your schedule. Private ground transport uses comfortable AC vehicles.

Flight and transport guides: Ganja La Pass Trek Itinerary Customized Australia Flights, Three Passes Trek Lukla Flights Delayed Booked Trip.

Required Permits

Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, TIMS Card, Climbing permit for high passes (arranged by us). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos after booking. Permit fees are included in your trip cost.

Permit guides: Makalu Base Camp Barun Valley Photography Time, Makalu Base Camp Permits And Guide Requirements.

Altitude Safety

Maximum altitude is 5700m. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness is a real risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Walk slowly, stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol above 3,500m, report symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

Altitude safety guides: Guided Makalu Base Camp Trek Safety, Makalu Base Camp Trek Acclimatization Planning.

Training & Preparation

Read our training guides: Details Prepare Makalu Base Camp Trek Quote, Three Passes Trek Mixed Fitness Group.

Insurance Requirement

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks and tours. Your insurance must cover trekking to 5700m altitude (for treks), emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 10,000, emergency medical treatment, and trip cancellation. We recommend World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Adventure plans. Bring a printed copy of your insurance certificate.

Insurance guides: What Cancellation Terms And Travel Insurance Details Matter Before Booking A Ren, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Insurance Needed.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctums. Walk clockwise around stupas and chortens. Ask permission before photographing people. Use your right hand for eating and passing items. Say namaste (palms together) as a greeting.

Culture guides: Remote Nepal Treks Culture Fewer Crowds, Mustang Vs Dolpo Tibetan Culture Trek.

Booking & Payment

To confirm your booking, a deposit is required (50% for helicopter tours). The balance is due 30 days before departure (7 days for helicopter tours). We accept bank transfer, credit card (4% surcharge), PayPal. Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation. Contact us for current pricing and availability.

What is Not Included

International airfare to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days), travel and rescue insurance (mandatory), personal trekking gear and clothing, hot showers and device charging on trek, alcoholic beverages, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, tips for guide/porter/driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost), and any costs from unforeseen events like weather delays.