Side by side
| Makalu Base Camp Trek | Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 18 | 22 |
| Highest point | 4,870 m | 5,143 m |
| Difficulty | Strenuous | Strenuous |
| Total distance | 145 km | 225 km |
| Best months | March to May and October to November | March to May and October to November |
| Typical cost | $1,450 to $2,200 | $2,500 to $4,500 |
| Starts from | Num (via Tumlingtar flight and jeep) | Taplejung (1,820 m) - via flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar then to Taplejung, or overland |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
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.
Choose the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek if
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is a 20 to 25 day challenging remote trek in far-eastern Nepal, approaching the third highest mountain in the world (8,586 m) from both north and south base camps. It requires a restricted area permit, a licensed guide, and significant logistical preparation. The reward is some of the most pristine wilderness and authentic cultural encounters in all of the Himalaya.
One of the most demanding teahouse treks in Nepal due to the remoteness, altitude, duration, and the physical demand of the full north-to-south traverse. Not recommended for first-time Himalayan trekkers.
