Side by side
| Langtang Valley Trek | Makalu Base Camp Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 8 | 18 |
| Highest point | 4,984 m | 4,870 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Strenuous |
| Total distance | 65 km | 145 km |
| Best months | March to May and October to November | March to May and October to November |
| Typical cost | $500 to $900 | $1,450 to $2,200 |
| Starts from | Syabrubesi (1,550 m) | Num (via Tumlingtar flight and jeep) |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Langtang Valley Trek if
The Langtang Valley trek is a 7 to 9 day moderate route in the Langtang National Park, north of Kathmandu. It climbs through rhododendron forest to the high yak pastures of Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870 m, with optional side trips to Tserko Ri at 4,984 m. No internal flight is needed, which makes it the most practical short Himalayan trek from Kathmandu.
The valley trail is well-graded and the altitude gain is gradual. Tserko Ri is a genuine high-altitude day hike that demands a careful start and good acclimatisation.
Choose the Makalu Base Camp Trek if
The Makalu Base Camp trek is an 18 day wilderness route in eastern Nepal leading into Makalu Barun National Park to the base of Mount Makalu at 4,870 m. Trekkers journey from subtropical cloud forests over rugged Shipton La pass into the dramatic sheer granite amphitheatre of Barun Valley.
Demanding high-altitude crossing of Shipton La at 4,210 m with steep climbs and descents. The upper Barun valley is remote with simple teahouses and unpredictable mountain weather.
