Makalu Base Camp Trek Permits: Unlocking the Beauty

Imagine yourself in a land of snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. A land where you can witness the beauty and power of nature, the diversity and richness of life, and the culture and history of the people. This is what awaits you on Makalu Base Camp Trek, a journey that will take you to the base camp of the fifth-highest mountain in the world, Makalu.

Makalu Base Camp trek is challenging, as it requires physical fitness, mental stamina, and proper preparation. But the rewards are immense, as you will see some of the most breathtaking views in the Himalayas. In this blog post, I will share everything you need to know before you embark on this fantastic adventure, including the permits required, the best time to go, and the tips and tricks for a successful trek.

What is Makalu Base Camp Trek and Why Should You Do It?

Makalu Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most adventurous and challenging treks. It takes you to the base camp of Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world, which stands at 8,485 meters above sea level. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Baruntse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga. You will also explore the Makalu Barun National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, such as rhododendrons, orchids, snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan thars. The trek also allows you to experience the authentic culture and lifestyle of the local people who belong to different ethnic groups, such as Sherpas, Rais, Limbus, and Tamangs. Makalu Base Camp Trek is perfect for those looking for a thrilling and rewarding adventure in the Himalayas.

What are the Permits Required for Makalu Base Camp Trek, and How Much Do They Cost?

To enter the Makalu Barun National Park, which covers most of the trekking route, you must obtain a Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit. This permit is mandatory for all trekkers, regardless of nationality or group size. You can get this permit at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or the park entrance in Num. This permit costs Rs. 1500 for SAARC citizens and Rs. 3000 for others.

Another permit you need for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit. This permit is required for every Nepalese trek, as it helps the authorities to keep track of the trekkers and ensure their safety. You can get this permit through a registered trekking agency or at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This permit costs Rs. 1000 for SAARC citizens and Rs. 2000 for others.

You need these three permits for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. Always carry them with you, as you may be asked to show them at checkpoints. You should also keep a copy of your passport and visa, as they may also be required.

Another permit that you may need for the Makalu Base Camp Trek is the Restricted Area Special Permit. This permit is required if you choose to take a route that passes through some restricted villages or areas in the Makalu or Kanchenjunga regions.

How to Get Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit?

The Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit is a document that grants you access to the Makalu Barun National Park, which is a protected and conserved area that covers most of the trekking route. This permit is mandatory for all trekkers who want to do the Makalu Base Camp Trek, regardless of nationality or group size.

You can get this permit at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or the park entrance in Num. The Nepal Tourism Board office is located on Pradarshani Marg, about a twenty-minute walk from the Thamel tourist area. The office is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except on public holidays. You must fill out an application form, provide two passport-sized photos, and pay the permit fee in cash. The permit fee is Rs. 1500 for SAARC citizens and Rs. 3000 for others.

Alternatively, you can get this permit at the park entrance in Num, the trek’s starting point. You must show your passport and visa, fill out an application form, and pay the permit fee in cash. The permit fee is the same as in Kathmandu. However, getting this permit in Num may take longer and be more inconvenient, as you may have to wait in a queue or deal with possible delays or shortages of forms or changes.

Getting this permit in Kathmandu before you start your trek is advisable, as it will save you time and hassle. You can also ask your trekking agency to arrange this permit if you have booked your trek with one. You can find more information about this permit on the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board or the Makalu Barun National Park.

How to Get Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit?

The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit is a document that registers your trekking details and ensures your safety and security. This permit is required for every Nepalese trek, including the Makalu Base Camp Trek. You need to obtain this permit before you start your trek, as you may be asked to show it at various checkpoints.

You can get this permit through two ways: through a registered trekking agency or at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If you have booked your trek with a trekking agency, they will arrange this permit for you. You must provide them with your passport details, itinerary, and two passport-sized photos. This permit costs Rs. 1000 for SAARC citizens and Rs. 2000 for others.

Alternatively, you can get this permit at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The Kathmandu office is located on Pradarshani Marg, about a twenty-minute walk from the Thamel tourist area. The Pokhara office is situated on Damside Road, about ten minutes from the Lakeside tourist area. The offices are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except on public holidays. You must fill out an application form, provide two passport-sized photos, and pay the permit fee in cash.

Keep this permit during your trek; you may be asked to show it at various checkpoints. You should also keep a copy of your passport and visa, as they may also be required. You can find more information about this permit on the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board.

What are the Other Documents and Requirements for the Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Besides the Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit, there are some other documents and requirements that you need to consider for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. These include:

• A valid passport and visa: You need to have a passport that is valid for at least six months. You also need to have a tourist visa. You can get a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or any land border entry point. 
• Travel insurance: The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a high-altitude trek that involves some risks and challenges, such as altitude sickness, injuries, or natural disasters. Therefore, having travel insurance is essential for your safety and peace of mind. You can buy travel insurance from your home country or a local company in Nepal.
• A trekking guide and porter: Per the new rule, you must hire a licensed trekking guide and porter for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, practical from April 1, 2023. This rule aims to ensure the safety and security of the trekkers. Similarly, it helps promote the employment and welfare of the local people.  You can hire a trekking guide and porter through a registered trekking agency or from an independent source.

What are the Tips and Tricks for a Successful Makalu Base Camp Trek?

Here are some tips and tricks that can help you make the most of your trek and avoid any problems or difficulties:

• The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a strenuous trek that involves walking for 6 to 8 hours a day on average, crossing high passes, and ascending and descending steep slopes. Train yourself by doing cardio exercises, such as running, cycling, or swimming, and strength exercises, such as squats, lunges, or push-ups. You can also hike or trek in your local area or on similar terrain and altitude.
• The Makalu Base Camp Trek reaches 4,870 meters at the base camp, above the altitude sickness threshold. Altitude sickness can cause symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. To prevent or minimize altitude sickness, you must acclimatize yourself properly by ascending gradually, taking rest days, drinking plenty of water, eating well, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and taking medication if needed.
• You must pack wisely and lightly for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, as you will be walking on varied terrain and weather conditions. You need a backpack that can fit all your essentials, such as clothes, shoes, sleeping bags, toiletries, a first aid kit, a water bottle, snacks, a camera, etc.
• It would help if you respected the local culture and environment by following some basic rules of etiquette and conservation. For example,
  • Greet the local people with a smile and a “Namaste.”
  • Ask for permission before taking photos or entering houses or temples.
  • Dress modestly and avoid showing too much skin or wearing offensive clothing.
  • Do not touch or disturb any religious objects or symbols.
  • Do not litter or pollute the water sources or trails.
  • Do not harm or feed any animals or plants.
  • Do not collect any souvenirs from the natural environment.

Conclusion

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a beautiful adventure to the base camp of the fifth-highest mountain, Makalu. This trek involves crossing high passes, walking on rugged trails, and facing harsh weather conditions. But the rewards are worth it. You will encounter rare wildlife and plants and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history.

Before you go on this trek, you must know about the permits required for the Makalu Base Camp Trek. You must obtain two permits: Makalu Barun National Park Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit.

You must also prepare other documents and requirements for the Makalu Base Camp Trek, such as a valid passport and visa, travel insurance, a trekking guide and porter, and a packing list. Check these carefully and ensure you have everything ready before you start your trek.