Mt. Makulu (8485 M) Expedition 

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48 Days
Nepal
OverviewMAPITINERARYWHAT'S INCLUDEDPRACTICAL INFOFAQGALLERY
OVERVIEW

The Makalu Expedition is an adventure that takes you to the summit of Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest mountain, which stands at an elevation of 8,485 meters (27,838 feet) above sea level. Makalu has two notable subordinate peaks. Kangchungtse, often known as Makalu II, is a 7,678-meter peak located about 3 kilometers northwest of the main summit. At an elevation of 7,804 meters, Chomo Lonzo is located about 5 kilometers north-northeast of the main summit, across a broad plateau and linked to Kangchungtse.

Mount Makalu is part of the Mahalangur range in the Himalayas, located on the boundary between Nepal and China.

The route to Makalu progresses through the Makalu Barun National Park. This park is home to breathtaking high waterfalls that cascade into deep valleys and ethnic communities such as Sherpa and Kirat, each with its own distinct culture. The name “Makalu” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Maha Kala,” which means “Big Black” or “Great Black,” and perfectly reflects the mountain’s rocky and challenging nature.

Mount Makalu was first ascended on May 15, 1955, by a French team led by Jean Franco. Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy were on the team. They reached the summit via the northeast ridge, overcoming various obstacles. Since the first ascent, many mountaineers have successfully climbed to the summit of Mount Makalu. The South East and North West ridges are the most prominent routes available, with the North Western ridge being the most favored route for most climbers aiming for the summit.

MAP
Itinerary

Day 01Arrive Kathmandu (1,330 m/ 4,634 ft)

Day 02Trip Preparation Day

Day 03Fly to Tumlingtar and drive to Num (1,040 m/ 3,412 ft)

Day 04Trek to Seduwa (1,500 m/ 4,921 ft)

Day 05Trek to Tashi Gaun (2,100 m/ 6,889 ft)

Day 06Trek to Khongma Dada (3,500 m/ 11,482 ft)

Day 07Rest/Acclimatization/ Exploration day at Khongma

Day 08Trek to Mumbuk (3,570 m/ 11,712 ft)

Day 09Trek to Ripock Kharka (3,557 m/ 11,669 ft)

Day 10Trek to Sherson (4,600 m/ 15,092 ft)

Day 11Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m/ 15,977 ft)

Day 12-41 Climbing Period

Day 42Trek back to Ripock Kharka (3,557 m/ 11,669 ft)

Day 43Trek to Mumbuk (3,570 m/ 11,712 ft)

Day 44Trek to Tashi Gaon (2,100 m/ 6,889 ft)

Day 45Trek to Num (1,040 m/ 3,412 ft)

Day 46Drive to Tumlingtar (518 m/ 1,700 ft) and fly to Kathmandu

Day 47Leisure day in Kathmandu

Day 48Final Departure

WHAT' S INCLUDED

At Rise Expeditions, we are dedicated to ensuring your ascent of Makulu is both safe and successful. We manage every aspect of your journey with the utmost attention to detail, providing you with the highest quality services and equipment to support your achievement of this incredible feat.

We collaborate with trusted partners to organize your travel, accommodations, and logistics, making sure you’re comfortable and well-prepared throughout the entire expedition. Our team ensures that you have access to top-tier mountaineering gear while adhering to strict safety standards, so you can approach every stage of the climb with confidence.

For more information and a detailed guide, check out our full overview.

INCLUSIONS
EXCLUSIONS
  • Departure and arrival shuttle to and from the airport and hotels
  • Bed and Breakfast for 4 Nights, Accommodation at Standard Hotel in Kathmandu(Twin sharing basis)
  • Climbing permit, National Park permit and other costs related to the permit
  • Applicable local and government taxes
  • Domestic Flights: Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
  • All road transfers for all members and staffs as per itinerary
  • Accommodation on full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the trek
  • Base camp service (shared with the group) includes a cooking tent with a chef and a kitchen boy, a dining tent with tables and chairs, a shower tent, a toilet tent, a storage tent, a gas heater, and solar electricity for battery charging
  • All camping equipment required during the trip, individual tents for basecamp
  • Twin sleeping tent with mattress for high camp accommodation
  • Individual climbing  Sherpa for 1 climbing member during the expedition
  • Oxygen Bottles: 3 bottles for each member and 2 bottles for Sherpas including mask and regulator set. 
  • High-altitude foods during the climb that  have high calories
  • Medical Kit carried by the Guide/ Sardar
  • Satellite Phone (Charges Per Call)
  • Walkie-Talkie as required for the communication
  • Sherpa’s remuneration and load-bearing bonus (this bonus does not include the summit bonus)
  • Required number of porters to and from base camp and return
  • Climbing equipment, transportation, lodging, food, salary, and insurance for Sherpas and other staff are all provided
  • Climbing certificates issued by the Nepal Government’s respective body
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Nepal Entry Visa fee
  •  Travel and medical insurance, including emergency rescue and evacuation coverage
  •  Meals in Kathmandu
  •  Personal expenses such as telephone, laundry, bottled water, bar bills, etc.
  • Trekking/climbing equipment (also available for rent)
  •   Summit Bonus for climbing guide ($1000 per climbing guide when you cross Camp III)Tips for the staff as a gratitude
  •  Tips for Base Camp staff (350$ for each member)
  •  Tips for local staff are for those persons who support during the treks, such as load carrying and heating water. They are not with us for the entire expedition and return based on mutual agreement on what you want to pay.
  •  Cost of any additional days in Kathmandu due to any reasons
  •  Any additional cost arising out of natural disasters or program cancellation
  • All other items not mentioned in the ‘Inclusions’ list
PRACTICAL INFO
Requirement
Equipment
Cancellation
Insurance

Climbing Makulu is a demanding challenge that requires physical endurance, mental toughness, and mountaineering skills. Under the expert guidance of Pasang Kaji (PK) Sherpa and our experienced team at Rise Expeditions, we are committed to helping you achieve the summit of the world’s eighth-highest mountain.

We require participants in our Makulu Expedition to have experience climbing at least one 7,000m or 6000 peaks, along with a solid foundation in high-altitude mountaineering. This experience is crucial to prepare you for the physical and mental demands of the climb.

Upon signing up, PK Sherpa and our team will review your climbing history and evaluate key performance metrics. Based on this assessment, we may suggest additional training or preparatory climbs to ensure you are fully prepared for the challenges of the Makulu Expedition, increasing your chances of a safe and successful ascent.

Reaching the summit of Mount Makulu demands specialized gear designed to withstand the extreme conditions of the Himalayas. Under PK Sherpa’s expert leadership, we ensure you are fully equipped with everything needed for a safe and successful climb.

When you book your Makulu Expedition, we’ll provide you with a detailed gear list to make sure you’re prepared for every stage of the journey.

You can also download the full gear list [here] to start your preparations in advance.

To secure your spot on the Mount Makalu Expedition, a 30% deposit is required at the time of booking. Once confirmed, an additional 40% must be paid at least one month before your arrival in Nepal. The remaining balance is due upon your arrival in Nepal. Payments can be made via cash or credit card, with any associated bank charges for credit card payments being the responsibility of the participant.

Cancellation Charges

  • 45 Days Notice: Cancellations made at least 45 days before arrival will incur a 25% charge of the total land tour cost.
  • 30 Days Notice: Cancellations made at least 30 days before arrival will incur a 50% charge of the total land tour cost.
  • 15 Days Notice: Cancellations made at least 15 days before arrival will incur an 80% charge of the total land tour cost.

For cancellations within 15 days of arrival, you may postpone your trip with an additional 10% fee added to the total cost. Cancellations after this period will also require an extra 20% fee for postponing.

Additional Cancellation Costs

  • Internal/Cross-Country Flights: Subject to airline policies.
  • Luxury Hotel Bookings: Cancellations will follow the specific hotel’s terms.

We strongly recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance for added protection. For more information, please contact us or refer to our booking policy.

For your safety and peace of mind during the Mount Makulu Expedition, Rise Expeditions requires all participants to have comprehensive travel insurance. Your policy should cover helicopter evacuations, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, theft, and other potential risks. We strongly advise purchasing insurance in your home country, as foreigners cannot buy insurance in Nepal.

Key Coverage to Look For:

  • Helicopter Evacuation: Ensure your policy covers the significant costs of emergency rescues at high altitudes.
  • Medical Expenses: Include coverage for treatment in high-altitude environments.
  • Trip Cancellation: Protect your investment in case you need to cancel your plans.

Please provide us with a copy of your insurance policy before arriving in Nepal. For recommended providers and more information, visit our Travel insurance page.

 

FAQ

Where is Mount Makalu, and how high is it?

Mount Makalu is in the Mahalangur Range of the Himalayas, on the border between Nepal and China. It stands at 8,485 meters (27,838 feet), making it the world’s fifth-highest mountain.

Who can climb Makalu?

Climbing Makalu is for experienced mountaineers with prior high-altitude experience. It’s not suitable for beginners due to its technical challenges and demanding conditions.

How long does the expedition take?

The entire expedition takes 40–50 days, including the trek to base camp, acclimatization, and the summit attempt.

What permits are needed?

Climbers need a special permit from the Nepal government and an entry permit for Makalu Barun National Park.

Why climb with Rise Expeditions?

Rise Expeditions offers experienced guides, safety-focused planning, and comprehensive support to make your Makalu climb a successful and unforgettable adventure.

GALLERY
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