Makalu Base Camp Trek Cost: What You Need to Know Before You Go
The Makalu region is home to Mt. Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest peak, and is highly rich in landscapes, flora and fauna, and culture. The cost of trekking in the Makalu region is moderate. This means it is less expensive than trekking in regions such as Dolpo and Kanchenjunga. On the other hand, it is slightly more expensive than trekking in regions such as Annapurna and Langtang. The cost may vary depending on factors such as the number of trekking days, mode of transportation, time of year, and so on. On average, the Makalu Base Camp Trek can cost between $1500 and $1950, exclusive of international flight costs.
Cost Categories for the Makalu Base Camp Trek
International Flight Cost
This is primarily determined by the country from where you are traveling and the time of year. Remember that the above-mentioned estimated trek cost does not include the cost of your international flight.
Visa Cost
The fee structure for an on-arrival Nepalese visa is mentioned below.
- $30 for 15 days
- $50 for 30 days
- $125 for 90 days
Insurance Cost
All trekking regions in Nepal feature rough mountainous terrain and high altitude. In particular, on the Makalu Trek, you will be crossing over multiple high passes and reaching a height of nearly 5000 meters at Makalu Base Camp. Hence, it is strongly advised to purchase trekking insurance before traveling to Nepal. Ensure that your insurance policy provides coverage for altitudes above 5000m. Also, get it from your own country, because such a plan is not available in Nepal. A 30-day coverage plan might cost between $150 and $250.
Cost During Your Kathmandu Stay
The cost of a room per night might range from $10 to $250, depending on the level of hotel you stay in. If you are interested in sightseeing in Kathmandu, you’ll need to budget separately. If you choose to trek through a trekking agency, most of them include sightseeing in the package.
Transportation Cost
There are two primary options to get to the Makalu Base Camp Trek’s starting point, Num Village. You can fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and then drive to Num. Depending on the time of year, it could cost you $100 or more. The next option is to drive all the way to Num, which will take more than 10 hours. It might cost between $20 and $25.
Permits Cost
For the Makalu Base Camp Trek, you will need two permits.
Makalu-Barun National Park Permit: It costs NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals, NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepalis per person per entry. It’s free for children under 10.
Makalu Rural Municipality Permit: For the first 4 weeks, this permit costs $20 per person per week. Beyond 4 weeks, it costs $25 per person per week. The fee is the same for both SAARC and other foreign nationals.
Accommodation and Amenities Costs
In comparison to the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Makalu region receives much fewer visitors. Teahouses in the region are basic, with few amenities. The teahouses in Num, Seduwa, and Tashi Gaon are comparatively more facilitated. Rooms are available on a twin-sharing or dorm-style basis. Lodging might cost between $5 and $10 per night. Extra charges apply for amenities such as hot water.
Teahouses are limited in number and capacity. Hence, if you’re trekking in a large group, you might have to opt for camping. In this case, your cost will rise as you might need to hire porters for carrying camping equipment.
Food Cost
Depending on the location, a meal can cost you from $4 to $7. Since the meal options are limited, you might consider bringing extra food such as tea, coffee, and dry fruits. Dal Bhat is a healthy option and also easily available.
Guide and Porter Cost
The cost of hiring a guide during your Makalu Base Camp Trek is generally between $25 and $35 per day. A more experienced guide may charge more. Similarly, a porter charges $20 to $25 per day.
Tipping Cost
Tipping your guide and porter is optional. It is, however, expected. As a general rule of thumb, tip 10% of their salary. It is ultimately your decision whether or not to tip and how much to tip. You do not need to tip the hotel owners.
Gears Cost
It is better to rent trekking equipment rather than purchase it. Almost any item can be rented from Thamel’s rental shops for around $1–$3 per item.
Miscellaneous Cost
Aside from the expenses listed above, there are likely to be additional expenses. This, however, varies from person to person. Personal shopping, souvenir shopping, and staying extra days in Kathmandu are some miscellaneous expenses.
