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Makalu Three High Passes Trek
Trip Type
Trekking In Nepal
Accomodation
Tea House
Destination
Nepal
Start Point
Kathmandu
Region
Makalu Region
Duration
14 Days
The Makalu Three High Passes Trek is an adventurous and challenging trek in eastern Nepal. This trek offers crossing of three high altitude passes that is Sherpani Col(6180 m), West Col(6190 m) and Amphu Labsta Pass(5850 m). This trek offers the diverse landscapes, vibrant culture and stunning views of mountains like Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu. This trek demands high trekking experience, proper acclimatization, and professional guide.
Seasonal Information:
Weather influences the experience of trekking. In the spring(March-May) season, the temperature is stable. You can see clear skies and blooming rhododendrons. This season is good for trekking. In the autumn(September-November) season, the weather is stable. You can see the clear mountain views, and the temperature is comfortable. This is also a festive season and highly recommended for trekkers for the adventure. In the Monsoon(June-August) season, heavy rainfall takes place. The trails are slippery and have a high risk of landslides. The winter(December-February) season is least recommended due to the extremely cold season. High chance of snowfall which may block the high altitude passes.
Cultural and Natural Insights:
From cultural aspects, this trek passes through villages of Sherpa, Rai, Limbu and Tibetan influenced Buddishts communities. You get to explore their culture and traditions. Similarly, Buddhism is the dominant religion in this region. You can see the prayer flags, monasteries, mani walls. You can explore the traditions of Rai and Limbu communities which are famous for music, dances, and rituals. If you trek during the festive season, you may witness Mani Rimdu, Dashain and Tihar. From natural aspects, you can enjoy the diverse landscapes from tropical forests to high altitude glaciers. Makalu Barun National Park is the home for wildlife species. You may encounter red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and different bird species. There are some high altitude glacial lakes along the trail. These lakes hold the spiritual significance for locals.
Preparation Guide:
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For Physical fitness: This trek is not suitable for beginners. This trek has many ascents and descents . So you need to be physically fit to walk for long hours.
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For packing list:
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For clothes, you need layered clothing like thermal, jackets, base layer, fleece.
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For footwear, waterproof trekking boots with good grip is needed.
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For gear, you need trekking poles, headlamp, and a day pack.
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Sunscreen, power banks, sunglasses, water purification tablets are required.
Sustainability and Responsibility:
The ecosystem of Everest region has been significantly impacted by increasing tourism. We have some responsibilities towards the environment to preserve the beauty of the Himalayas. Here are some ways to practice environmental responsibility:
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You can carry garbage bags with you or dispose of trash in designated areas.
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Avoid using single use plastic water bottles.
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Choose accommodation that follows sustainable practice.
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You can purchase local goods to uplift/ support the local economy.
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Avoid picking rare plants that take long to grow and respect wildlife and their habitat.
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Travel in groups to reduce ecological strain.
Modern Travel Expectation:
Now trekkers seek balance between adventure and the outside world while in trek to be connected. Here are some expectation of modern traveller that we try to meet:
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Internet access as wi-fi is available at teahouses.
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Comfortable accommodation due to upgraded teahouses and hygiene facilities.
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Available expanded menu of options including pizza, pancakes, and vegetarian dishes.
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Sustainable and ethical practices of waste management and using renewable energy.
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Services of health support for high altitude related issues.
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Customizable trekking experience for solo travellers or groups for more fun in adventure.
Top Adventurous Treks in Nepal
Highlights of the Makalu Three High Passes Trek
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You can witness the panoramic views of mountains like Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, and Chamlang.
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You get to cross Sherpani Col, West Col, and Amphu Laptsa Pass which are challenging.
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You get to explore the biodiversity in Makalu Barun National Park
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You can enjoy diverse landscapes through lush forests, alpine meadows, glaciers, and high altitude passes.
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You can explore culture, monasteries, and prayer flags along the route.
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It is less crowded compared to Everest Base Camp and Aannapurna Base Camp which contribute to peace adventures.
Short Itinerary ( 14 days )
you arrive in Kathmandu and have a scenic flight to Tumlingtar. And a drive to Chichila once you reach Tumlingtar. Distance: 40 km drive, walking hours: 1-2, altitude gain: 1380m.
You’ll descend through terraced fields, cross the Arun river. When you reach Num, you can enjoy the view of Mountains. Distance: 12km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude loss: 350 m.
Now you have entered the Makalu Barun National Park that passes through subtropical forests. You can experience and explore the culture of the Rai community. Distance: 10km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 10m.
Now you’ll steep through rhododendron forest. You get to explore sherpa villages. You can enjoy stunning views of mountains. Distance: 8km, walking hours: 56, altitude gain: 600m.
You’ll ascend through lush forests, you’ll cross suspension bridges and witness the transition to alpine landscapes. Distance: 10km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 1370m.
You’ll walk through Yak Pastures, you get to enjoy the view of waterfalls and experience the remote wilderness once you reach Mumbuk. Distance: 10km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 100m.
Now you’ll cross high altitude trails, you can encounter wildlife species like musk deer along the trail. You can enjoy the panoramic views of mountains. Distance: 8km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude gain: 280m.
It is the rest day for you with an optional hike to explore the surrounding valleys and be prepared for higher altitude.
You’ll cross glacial moraines, and you can enjoy the close up views of Makalu and Baruntse. Distance: 10km, walking hours: 6-7, altitude gain: 255m
passing through a forest suspension bridge you’ll reach MBC. Once you Reach Makalu Base Camp, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of mount Makalu. You can feel the excitement of being in the remote Himalayan setting. Distance: 8km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude gain: 255m.
It is a challenging glacier crossing. You can witness the panoramic views of Ama Dablam and Chonku Peak. Distance: 8km, walking hours: 8-9, altitude gain: 1310m, altitude loss: 10m
You’ll cross the west col and amphu lapsta pass and enjoy the views of island peak and imja tse glacier. Distance: 10km, walking: 8-9, altitude loss: 340.
Now you’ll enter the Everest Region and you can enjoy views of Lhotse and Island Peak. Distance: 8km, walking hours: 5-6, altitude loss: 1120m
You’ll descend through Sherpa villages, celebrating the completion of the trek. Once you reach Lukla, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu. Distance: 20km, walking: 7-8, altitude loss: 1890m.
Cost Includes
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Cost of Domestic flights
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Cost of Makalu Barun National Park and TIMS permits
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Standard meals during the trek
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Accommodation in Teahouses.
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First aid and medical service
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Cost of Guide or porters.
Cost Excludes
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International Airfare
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Nepal Visa Fees
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Cost of Travel Insurance
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Cost of personal expenses
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Extra accommodation in Kathmandu
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Tips for guide or porters
