Skip to main content

Makalu Base Camp Trek vs Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek: Which Remote Trek should you Choose?

07 July 2025

Planning a Trip to Nepal?

Planning a Trip to Nepal?

Invalid Input
Invalid Input
Invalid Input
Invalid Input
Invalid Input
everest base camp trek acclimatization and safety

When it comes to off-the-beaten-path trekking adventures in Nepal, both the Makalu Base Camp Trek and the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek stand out as exceptional journeys into the remote and untouched corners of the Himalayas. These treks offer awe-inspiring landscapes, genuine cultural experiences, and a sense of solitude that popular routes like Everest Trek and Annapurna Trek can no longer provide. If you are an experienced trekker seeking raw wilderness, dramatic mountain views, and fewer crowds, this comparison will help you decide which trek aligns best with your goals, preferences, and trekking capabilities.

1. Location and Accessibility

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek
    • Region: Makalu Base Camp Trek lies in eastern Nepal, bordering the Makalu-Barun National Park.
    • Starting Point: Tumlingtar (accessible by flight from Kathmandu, followed by a drive to Num).
    • Ending Point: Same route back to Tumlingtar.
    • Access: A short flight (35-40 mins) from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, then jeep drive (4-6 hours) to the trailhead at Num. The trail is remote, and logistics can be challenging.
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
    • Region: Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek lies in far eastern Nepal, close to the border of India and Tibet.
    • Starting Point: Taplejung or Suketar (accessible via flight or jeep from Bhadrapur or Biratnagar).
    • Ending Point: Depending on the route, the trek may be circular or linear, ending at Taplejung.
    • Access: Flight to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu, then a long jeep drive (8–10 hours) to Taplejung. Road conditions can be rough but improving gradually.

Key Takeaway: Both treks are remote and demand time for transit. However, Kanchenjunga’s route offers more flexibility with multiple starting points and better- developed trails in recent years.

2. Trek Duration and Itinerary

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek
    • Duration: 18–22 days including travel days.
    • Highlights: Num, Seduwa, Tashigaon, Khongma Danda, Shipton La Pass(4,216 m), Makalu Base Camp (4,870 m).
    • Daily Walking: 5–7 hours.
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
    • Duration: 20–26 days (depending on whether you do Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek only or both North Base Camp & South Base Camp – Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek).
    • Highlights: Mitlung, Ghunsa, Lhonak, Pangpema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp - 5,143 m), Yalung Glacier (South Base Camp), traditional Limbu and Rai villages.
    • Daily Walking: 5–8 hours.

Key Takeaway: Kanchenjunga requires more days if doing both base camps. Makalu is shorter, though equally challenging.

ALSO READ IN DETAILS “Your Complete Guide about Choosing the Right Equipment for High – Altitude Trekking in Nepal”

3. Trekking Experience and Difficulty Level

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek
    • Difficulty: Strenuous
    • Terrain: Rugged, steep ascents and descents, river crossings, alpine meadows, glacier moraines.
    • Altitude Risk: Moderate to High, with gradual acclimatization needed.
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
    • Difficulty: Strenuous
    • Terrain: Varied, including dense forests, alpine ridges, glacial valleys, and high passes.
    • Altitude Risk: High, especially near Pangpema and South Base Camp.

Key Takeaway: Both treks are physically demanding and best suited for experienced trekkers. Kanchenjunga has higher elevations but better gradual altitude gain. Makalu’s isolation adds an extra layer of challenge.

4. Scenic Beauty and Landscape

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek:
    • Major Mountains: Makalu (8,485 m), Everest, Lhotse, Chamlang, Baruntse.
    • Features: Barun Valley, Rhododendron forests, Shipton La, glacial rivers.
    • Highlights: View of the rarely seen eastern face of Everest and dramatic views of Makalu.
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
    • Major Mountains: Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Janu, Kumbhakarna, Tent Peak, Rothang.
    • Features: Remote valleys, ancient glaciers, high alpine landscapes, and terraced villages.
    • Highlights: Jaw-dropping close-up views of Kanchenjunga, Nepal’s second-highest mountain.

Key Takeaway: Both treks are visually stunning. Kanchenjunga may offer more grandeur in terms of mountain massifs, while Makalu is wilder and more rugged.

LEARN MORE “Top Reasons to make Nepal your Next Holiday Destination”

5. Cultural Experience

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek:
    • Ethnic Groups: Sherpa, Rai, and Tamang communities.
    • Cultural Sites: Buddhist monasteries, traditional Sherpa villages.
    • Interactions: Limited due to remoteness and low settlement density.
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
    • Ethnic Groups: Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan Buddhist communities.
    • Cultural Sites: Monasteries in Ghunsa, Chortens, Mani walls, traditional Limbu- Rai homes.
    • Interactions: Rich cultural immersion in villages like Yamphudin, Ghunsa, and Sekathum.

Key Takeaway: Kanchenjunga wins for cultural diversity and authenticity. Makalu offers insight into isolated mountain life but with fewer settlements.

6. Accommodation and Facilities

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek:
    • Type: Basic teahouses up to Khongma Danda; camping may be needed beyond.
    • Amenities: Limited; basic meals, few attached bathrooms, minimal charging.
    • Preparedness: Highly recommended to bring gear like sleeping bags, purification tablets, and backup power.
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
    • Type: Teahouses are now available throughout the route, though basic.
    • Amenities: Shared toilets, limited charging points, hot showers in lower areas.
    • Preparedness: Teahouse trekking is possible without camping if well-planned.

Key Takeaway: Kanchenjunga has improved teahouse infrastructure. Makalu still partially relies on camping, making it more logistically demanding.

7. Permit Requirements

  • Makalu Base Camp Trek:
    • Permits Required:
      • Makalu-Barun National Park Entry Permit
      • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:
    • Permits Required:
      • Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP)
      • Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Taplejung Region
      • TIMS
    • Guide Requirement: A licensed guide is mandatory due to restricted status.

Key Takeaway: Both treks require permits, but Kanchenjunga involves restricted area permits and compulsory guide services.

8. Best Time to Trek

  • Ideal Seasons:
    • Spring (March to May): Clear skies, rhododendron blooms, longer days.
    • Autumn (Late September to November): Best visibility, stable weather, crisp views.
  • Winter (December–February):
    • Both treks become extremely cold and can be inaccessible due to snow.
  • Monsoon (June–August):
    • Not recommended due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and leeches, especially in the forested lower regions.

Key Takeaway: Spring and Autumn are ideal, with a rising number of eco-conscious trekkers seeking these routes post-COVID.

ALSO YOU SHOULD KNOW “Best Time to Visit Nepal : A Detailed Guide”

9. Internet, Communication & Emergency

  • Mobile Network:
    • Makalu: Patchy to no signal beyond Seduwa.
    • Kanchenjunga: Limited NTC/NCell network up to Ghunsa.
  • Wi-Fi:
    • Rare on both treks; do not rely on connectivity.
  • Emergency:
    • Satellite phones are advisable.
    • Helicopter evacuation possible in case of emergencies, weather permitting.

Key Takeaway: Both treks are remote—communication is unreliable. Adequate insurance and emergency planning are critical.

Feature Makalu Base Camp Trek Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Duration 18–22 days 20–26 days
Max Elevation 4,870 m (Makalu BC) 5,143 m (Pangpema)
Difficulty Strenuous Strenuous
Teahouse Availability Partial Full route coverage
Cultural Diversity Moderate High
Mountain Views Everest, Makalu, Baruntse Kanchenjunga, Janu,Kumbhakarna
Permit Complexity Moderate High (includes restricted area)
Crowds Very low Low
Best Time Spring/Autumn Spring/Autumn
Guide Required Mandatory Mandatory

LEARN MORE AND IN DETAILS “75 FAQS about Visiting & Trekking in Nepal”

Conclusion: Which Trek is Right for You?

  • Choose Makalu Base Camp Trek if you crave raw wilderness, are comfortable with partial camping, and want to witness the unseen eastern face of Everest along with majestic Makalu.

  • Choose Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek if you desire rich cultural
    immersion, a fully teahouse-supported trek, and the grandeur of Nepal’s second-highest peak with unmatched solitude.

Both treks are excellent for those who have already done the popular routes such as Langtang Trek, Manaslu Trek, Everest Trek or Annapurna Trek and now seek authenticity, challenge, and remoteness. Whichever route you choose, the journey will be transformative.

Need help planning your Nepal trek?

At Raj Bala Treks & Expedition, we specialize in custom-tailored trekking experiences in Nepal’s remote regions. Whether you're leaning toward Makalu Trek or Kanchenjunga Trek, our experienced guides, expert logistics, and personalized support will ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure.
CONTACT US for detailed information, itineraries, and permit assistance.

Blogs From The Himalayas