Makalu – Sherpini Col Pass Trekking
The Sherpani Col Pass Trek includes three passes, two of them over 6,000m. It traverses the mountain range between Makalu and Everest. This trek combines cross-country trekking with mountaineering (fixed ropes and possible ice axe) to scale the high passes of the “Three Cols” – namely Sherpani Col, West Col, and Amphu Labsta. Today this trek forms part of the Great Himalayan Trail, a newly opened up trail that crosses the country from east to west through some of the toughest and most beautiful landscapes.
Country
Nepal
Duration
23 Days
Difficulty
Hard
Trip Type
Trekking
Max Altitude
5680m
Best Season
Dec-Mar
Accomodation
3***Hotel + Logde accommodation on twin sharing bed basis during the Trekking.
Meals
All meals (Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast) with cup of hot drinks during the trekking.
Start/End Point
Kathmandu
Highlights & Overview
Situated eastern part of Nepal, between Sagarmatha and Makalu-Barun National Parks.Seven valleys spread out from Mt. Makalu, the world’s fifth highest peak.Challenging and an outstanding trek in the eastern part of Nepal.Makalu Base Camp to the Khumbu Region via Sherpani Col.Most remote and unfrequented real adventures trekking route.An amazing view including top of the world Mt. Everest (8,848.86m), Makalu, and others.Cross Shipton La (4,210 m), Sherpani Col (6,110m), West Col (6,135m), and Amphu Laptsha (5,845m).Scenic flight Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and end Lukla to Kathmandu.
This being one of the most challenging sections of the Great HImalayan Trail, an excellent level of fitness is required to complete the long weeks of trekking, the majority of days at altitudes over 4,000 and up to 6,000m.
The latter section of the trek follows the route to Everest Base Camp trek, from where mountaineering expeditions set off to scale Everest. The trek also visits Gorakshep and Kala Patthar, the viewpoint for Everest, from where the views of the world’s tallest mountain are simply stunning! The Makalu Barun region is one of the largest protected areas in Nepal, home to 3,000 species of flowering plants, including a variety of Himalayan orchids, 440 species of birds, and 75 species of mammals. Rare species such as the snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan Thar live in this pristine environment. This is one of the reasons it has been included in the Sacred Himalayan Landscape initiative of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
And not forgetting the once-in-a-lifetime views of the immense mountain vistas of Makalu (8,481m), Everest (8,848m), and Lhotse (8,516m) – which are towering granite cliffs capped with amazing glaciers, and high altitude lakes. This is a journey for those who have the stamina and fitness level to tackle one of the most rewarding and challenging treks in Nepal. The final days of this amazing trip are spent in Namche Bazaar and Lukla – and that’s just the icing on the cake (Or the snow on the glacier!).
The latter section of the trek follows the route to Everest Base Camp trek, from where mountaineering expeditions set off to scale Everest. The trek also visits Gorakshep and Kala Patthar, the viewpoint for Everest, from where the views of the world’s tallest mountain are simply stunning! The Makalu Barun region is one of the largest protected areas in Nepal, home to 3,000 species of flowering plants, including a variety of Himalayan orchids, 440 species of birds, and 75 species of mammals. Rare species such as the snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan Thar live in this pristine environment. This is one of the reasons it has been included in the Sacred Himalayan Landscape initiative of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
And not forgetting the once-in-a-lifetime views of the immense mountain vistas of Makalu (8,481m), Everest (8,848m), and Lhotse (8,516m) – which are towering granite cliffs capped with amazing glaciers, and high altitude lakes. This is a journey for those who have the stamina and fitness level to tackle one of the most rewarding and challenging treks in Nepal. The final days of this amazing trip are spent in Namche Bazaar and Lukla – and that’s just the icing on the cake (Or the snow on the glacier!).
How difficult is Makalu Base Camp trekking with Sherpani Col trekking?
Sherpani Col Pass trek is the most demanding and technical ‘trek’ in the Nepal Himalaya. The difficulties of the Makalu base camp trek with Sherpani Col Pass depends on these common factors:Weather Condition and Temperature:
Make sure you choose the best season for Sherpani Col Trek. The best season for this trek is Spring (March to June) and Autumns (September to November). The weather, rainfall and temperature during these seasons remain moderate compared with other times of year allowing you to complete the trek with no doubt.Trek and Climbing Route:
The difficulty of the Shepani Col Pass Trek depends on the route you choose. Be sure and confident with your physical conditions and fitness and choose the best route that fits you.Physical Fitness:
One must be physically fit to complete this trek as this trek is considered one of the most challenging and technical treks in the Himalayas.High Altitude Sickness:
Climbers and Trekkers sometimes suffer from High Altitude sickness, so our itinerary is designed with acclimatization days. Don’t Hurry and Rush as you may suffer from Altitude sickness.Walking Distance:
The trek becomes more difficult and challenging if you choose to walk more distance per day during the trek. It is recommended to walk 4-6 hours on normal routes and 3-4 hours on some challenging pass of Sherpani Col and Amphu Laptsa Pass.Clothing and Equipment:
Choose the best clothing and equipment as you need to trek through the most challenging destination. Trekkers need to choose warm, full-sleeved and down jackets with high-quality trekking equipment during the trek.Short Itinerary
- Day 1:Arrival at Kathmandu & Transfer to the Hotel.
- Day 2:Trekking preparation and permit paper work day.
- Day 3:Fly to Tumlingtar (400m), 40 minutes flight & drive to Num (1,500m) -5 to 6 hours
- Day 4:Trek Num to Seduwa (1,493m) -5 to 6 hours
- Day 5: Trek to Tashi Gaun (2,200m), 3-4 hrs walk.
- Day 6: Trek to Khongma Danda (3,500m), 5-6 hours walk.
- Day 7: Trek to Dobate (3,400m) 5-6 hrs walk.
- Day 8: Trek to Yangli – Kharka (3,590m) 6-7 hrs walk.
- Day 9: Trek to Langmale (4,410m), 5-6 hrs walk
- Day 10: Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), 5-6 hrs walk
- Day 11: Acclimatization day
- Day 12: Trek to Swess Camp (5,150m), 4-5 hrs walk
- Day 13: Trek to High Camp at (5,680m), 5-6 hrs walk
- Day 14: Trek to Barunste Base Camp (5,400m), after crossing Sherpani Col (East & West Col)
- Day 15: Acclimatization day – Rest Day
- Day 16: Trek to Amphu Labtsa Base Camp
- Day 17: Traverse Amphu Labtsa Pass 5,780m and trek to Chhukung (4,730m), 7-8 hrs walk
- Day 18: Trek to Pangboche (3,867m) 3-4 hrs
- Day 19: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) 6 – 7 hrs walk
- Day 20: Trek to Lukla (2,800m), 6-7 hrs walks
- Day 21: Fly back to Kathmandu
- Day 22: Leisure at Kathmandu
- Day 23: Departure to Homeland
Price Includes
All ground transfers by private vehicle as per our itinerary.Everyday meals ( Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner with Cup of Hot Drinks ) in trekking period prepared by experienced cook.Three star Hotel in Kathmandu (including breakfast, and taxes)Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu (includes all entrance fees).All domestic airfares (Kathmandu – Tumlingtar & Lukla- Kathmandu).Organized Camping Trek arrangement, including all high quality camping equipments and tents such as Two Men Tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, Table, Chairs, Mattresses etc..National Park / Conservation Area Permit Fees (For Sagarmatha National Park & Makalu Barun Conservation Area).Guide, porters and their daily wages, insurance with all necessary lodging – fooding arrangements.High altitude working crew / high altitude porters / vast experienced climbing Sherpa / guide with their daily wages, insurance and all arrangements.We also provide a complimentary farewell Dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program in Thamel.Price Doesn't Include
All International Airfares / Airport taxes.Expenses of personal nature such as bottled drinks, mineral water, laundry and etc.Rescue and evacuation (helicopter operation) – if needed.Personal medical and travel insurance.Tips and Gratitude.Makalu – Sherpini Col Pass Trekking Itinerary
Day 1:Arrival at Kathmandu & Transfer to the Hotel.
You will be welcomed by our Trek Guide at Tribhuwan international airport Kathmandu and transferred to your hotel. Brief about the trip in the evening.
Max Altitude
1350m/4429ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Breakfast
Day 2:Trekking preparation and permit paper work day.
After your breakfast you will be meet by our Trek Guide and checking about trekking equipments . And the Kathmandu Sightseeing beings with visit to various UNESCO enlisted cultural Heritage sites including medieval Palaces in Kathmandu-Bhaktapur-Lalitpur Durbar squares. Other sites are Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath Stupa.In the evenining you will walk along the Thamel streets which is a good place to buy trekking equipment.
Max Altitude
1350m/4429ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 3:Fly to Tumlingtar (400m), 40 minutes flight & drive to Num (1,500m) -5 to 6 hours
This morning you’ll be transferred to domestic airport to fly to Tumlingtar enjoying the scenic view of snow capped peaks from Langtang all the way to Mt. Everest, Makalu & Mt. Kanchenjunga, on arrival at Tumlingtar airport which is a village town located on a shelf above the Arun River, we’ll drive by 4W jeep for off road trip to Num village and meet up our crews for the trekking, Stay overnight.
Max Altitude
1500m/4921ft
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 4:Trek Num to Seduwa (1,493m) -5 to 6 hours
Today We start our adventurous journey from Num village with pleasant walk for an hour through the farm fields downwards 800m and villages, crossing through Arun River again ascending some steps to get Seduwa village.
Max Altitude
1493m/4898ft
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 5: Trek to Tashi Gaun (2,200m), 3-4 hrs walk.
We have easy and pleasant short walk that takes you to rural farm villages, on the gradual trail through the farm fields and terraces, as we come near to Tashi Gaon, it’s an uphill climb for an hour through the millet and rice fields. We’ll overnight at camp and rest of the time walk around the village.
Max Altitude
2200m/7216ft
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 6: Trek to Khongma Danda (3,500m), 5-6 hours walk.
This is the last village up to the Makalu and after this village the walk is refreshing for an hour and a half in the beautiful shade of the rhododendron and oaks forest, after leaving the dense forest coming to a summer pastures with traces of temporary made shepherd huts. From here onwards to Khongma ridge is strenuous uphill climb, as the tree lines declines for the bushes of rhododendron and juniper. We’ll stay here and can be seen scenic mountain ranges.
Max Altitude
3500m/11483ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 7: Trek to Dobate (3,400m) 5-6 hrs walk.
After the superb mountains view and the surrounding landscapes and snow capped peaks, our trek follows a gradual trail with few ups and down as we pass through the Thulo Pokhari (big pond) and Sano Pokhari (small pond). In the heavy snow, the path from here can be quite misleading and it will be arduous to find the trail sometime and further walk cross the pass of Shiptom-la at 4,075m. We onwards our journey, it is all downhill back to vegetation, a small clearing place for camping in the middle of the woods of pines, hemlock, birch and rhododendrons to reach at Dobate for the overnight.
Max Altitude
3400m/11155ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 8: Trek to Yangli – Kharka (3,590m) 6-7 hrs walk.
Our camp settled in the beautiful lawn / Yak pasture places at YAngli KHarka, the walk from here is downhill to the enclosed and concealed Barun Valley, one of the least explored area in the eastern Himalayan region of Nepal. This unique landscapes within the Makalu-Barun National Park are some 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 bird species and 75 species of mammals, including the endangers clouded leopard, red panda and musk deer. As we reach the lush alpine area of Barun Valley the walk is very pleasant with gradual uphill slopes, following the Barun River upstream on the valley gorge towards our camp at Yangli-Kharka, one of the summer pastures for the local folks.
Max Altitude
3590m/11778ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 9: Trek to Langmale (4,410m), 5-6 hrs walk
After having breakfast, we have to moving upwards to Varun valley with beautiful pasture place. It takes about 5-6 hours from starting point. Langmale the place where some tea houses are build and running from local people of Makalu region. Background mountains and beautiful landscape downward it looks like heaven on earth.
Max Altitude
4410m/14469ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 10: Trek to Makalu Base Camp (4,870m), 5-6 hrs walk
From Langmale, we continue to more isolated area towards the higher camp, which is less than three hour trek above Langmale, at the snout of the Barun glacier, near its glacial pond. On arriving at the camp afternoon free for short hike above this camp, a climb on the moraine ridge, for more spectacular views of Mt.Makalu, and of the usual hidden east sides of Lhotse and Everest, which looms above the Barun glacier to the North West. We will spend rest of the afternoon at leisure and preparing for the next big adventure. Some of the porters will set off back with equipment which we do not need to take with us making the load as light as possible to overcome the traverse over Sherpani Col and beyond.
Max Altitude
4870m/15978ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 11: Acclimatization day
Today you have full day rest at the camp or for acclimatization visit around some interesting hike and view points to explore, the most scenic walk would be taking a hike on the right side of the camp above for the closer view of Mt. Makalu, Barun Pokhari and the view of the rare face of Everest the Kanshung face with Lhotse. An hour steep up brings you to the large meadow, you can walk further up, to have a greater view of the mentioned peaks and more other peaks of this area and beyond. After exploring the area, stroll back to the camp.
Max Altitude
4870m/15978ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 12: Trek to Swess Camp (5,150m), 4-5 hrs walk
Our journey from here heads westwards to camp just below Makalu west piller, as the altitude gains slowly, we take our time with enough breaks in this high terrain our walk follows a path which climbs an ablation valley on the west side of the Barun glacier. Following this valley onto the glacier we make our way over the boulder-strewn caves and ice to a camp known as Puja Camp below the towering Mt. Makalau’s West Pillar. Our strenuous trek on the glacier is rewarded with unique views of Lhotse and the rare Kangshung face of Everest. Overnight camp on the clearing of the moraine.
Max Altitude
5150m/16896ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 13: Trek to High Camp at (5,680m), 5-6 hrs walk
Leaving our camp the path follows to a steep climb up the rocky slopes of the Barun’s west bank, until a line of cairns leads us into the valley where two small glaciers are fed by the slopes of the Sherpani Col. We will make our camp beneath the ice cliffs at the terminus of these two glaciers after 4-5 hours of vigorous climb.
Max Altitude
5680m/19226ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 14: Trek to Barunste Base Camp (5,400m), after crossing Sherpani Col (East & West Col)
The big day! Leaving the camp before dawn, we climb on the icy snout of the Sherpani Glacier, two separate Col’s give access to the cirque, we will choose the most appropriate of these routes, according to the prevailing conditions, our climb follows on steep snow covered slopes, with the back-up of the fixed ropes which we had set up on the previous day. From the Col we will rope up to cross the glacier to the rocky crest of the West Col. This stunning cirque is framed by the sweep of Baruntse’s icy ridges to the north, the vast cliffs of Makalu, the wall of Chamlang to the south and the shapely spire of Ama Dablam ahead of us to the west. We will be having our packed lunch on the world’s highest picnic spots, in the meantime our guides will scout the safe route down the West Col. After a break a descent from the Col on fixed lines leads us to the Hongu Glacier, and end our long hard day with a gradual walk down to our camp on the Barunste Base Camp.
Max Altitude
5400m/17717ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 15: Acclimatization day – Rest Day
After success the main pass in the trip, today the relax day and having saving more energy for Ahamphu Lapcha Pass. Beautiful surrounding mountain and ponds make us to melting our tiredness very soon.
Max Altitude
5400m/17717ft
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 16: Trek to Amphu Labtsa Base Camp
Today we start our trek after breakfast to the Amphu Labtsa Base Camp. Here our guides will go up to the Amphu Labtsa and will fix ropes on some difficult section for the safe descent towards Imja Valley.
Max Altitude
Accomodation
Tent
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 17: Traverse Amphu Labtsa Pass 5,780m and trek to Chhukung (4,730m), 7-8 hrs walk
Another big day, an early start from the camp for 2-3 hrs treks leads us to the top of the pass and overlooking stunning views of the impressive south face of Lhotse and Lhotse shar and the summit of Island or Imajatse Peaks which looks as if it could almost be even lower than our vantage point. As soon the kitchen staffs and porters arrive at the pass, they will be lowered the 150 meters to the relatively less steep ground below the pass. Similarly, loads have to be carefully lowered, after checking every member in the group we slowly and carefully descend with the help of ropes and ice axe if required, then reaching the safe side from the pass by early afternoon everybody should be off the snow. Once in the safe ground away from the snow and ice area, an hour or more walk will take us to the ablation valley by the side of the Imja Glacier, now being within the Imja-tse valley walking will be more or less easier most of the way to the trekkers civilization at Chhukung a temporary settlement with 5-6 teahouse and lodges. Overnight Camp at Chhukung after 8-9 hrs of hard adventurous trek.
Max Altitude
4730m/15518ft
Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 18: Trek to Pangboche (3,867m) 3-4 hrs
After the hard couple of days over the two high hidden pass in between the massif peaks, our route from here leads to a pleasant walk on the downhill slope to Dingboche then Pangboche village. After two hours of easy walk brings us at Dingboche village. Dingboche is a beautiful patchwork of field enclosed by stone walls, protecting the crops of barley, buckwheat and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals. Dingboche has about more than ten teahouses and it is also the gateway to Chhukung and farther beyond for the most challenging traverses towards Makalu area and Hinko Valley. From Dingboche a gentle walk leads towards the Imjatse River with excellent views of Ama Dablam, Kangtenga and Tawoche peaks the trail leads to a small wooden bridge, from the bridge an easy walk to Pangboche village. Staying at over night here or option for heading to Tyangbuche.
Max Altitude
3867m/12687ft
Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 19: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) 6 – 7 hrs walk
After having breakfast at hotel we move to Tyangbuche for visit to the newly built monastery after the old one was burned to the ground in the late 80’s, our trek begins with a descend for an hour to Phungi Tenka, here we cross the long suspension bridge over the Imjatse River by now the trail is more busier with trekkers, porters and pack animals than the previous days. From the bridge an hour and half climb brings us to a small place of Shana-sa offering grand view of Ama Dablam and Thamserku. Perhaps we might stop for lunch in this village. After a break here, if people are interested to visit the upper sleepy village of Khumjung and Khunde they may do so, as the walk to Namche from here is just 2 hrs away on the easy winding trail with constant view of the snow capped peaks of Kwangde, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Everest. Splitting the trail from here to Namche and Khumjung the later village will take about an hour uphill walk and then about 2-3 hrs to reach Namche for the overnight halt. On reaching Namche Bazaar it will be more or less back to civilization with excellent restaurant, shops, lodges and even Cyber cafe.
Max Altitude
3440m/11286ft
Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 20: Trek to Lukla (2,800m), 6-7 hrs walks
Being on the main trail to Everest, the walk from Namche onwards will be an easier all the way to Lukla, the path leads downhill all the way to the confluence of Bhotekoshi and Imjatse which makes the Dudh Koshi. From here we cross the long suspension bridge with a short climb into the pine woods, reaching again back to the river bed, the gentle trail follows the river downstream passing through many farm fields and villages then coming at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park in Monjo village. After Monjo another 2 hours of good walk leads to Phakding near the river Dudh Koshi. Final leg of this great trek will be another good walk to Lukla, you can walk at your own leisurely pace, enjoying the lush green scenery around. Apart from few short uphill the only long climb will be just before Lukla which ake approximately 45 minutes from a place called Cheplung or from the old big oak tree. On reaching Lukla, prepare for the last day great dinner and celebration with the fellow Sherpa crew, porters and trekking members.
Max Altitude
2800m/9186ft
Accomodation
Hotel / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 21: Fly back to Kathmandu
The flight time to Kathmandu, are schedule for morning normally, because of the wind in the afternoon, sometime the flight time can be delayed due to bad weather and other reason beyond our command. Anyway we will fly back to Kathmandu and your guide will transfer to hotel. You may have time to relax after long journey and take back your breath and rest at your hotel.
Max Altitude
1350m/4429ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 22: Leisure at Kathmandu
This pleasant day you may have full day at leisure and either relax at hotel or explore the Thamel. You have time to buy gifts and souveniers to your friends and families.
Max Altitude
1350m/4429ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 23: Departure to Homeland
Another Big Day, fly back to home after complete your Himalayas journey with Nature Trail Trekking Company. Its time for say good bye Nepal and see you again for next trip. Thanks for joining with us.
Max Altitude
1350m/4429ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Breakfast
Packing Lists
Cloathing
Moisture-wicking base layers (long-sleeved shirts and pants)Insulating layers (fleece or down jacket)Waterproof and windproof jacketWaterproof and windproof pants (or trekking pants with zip-off legs)Warm hat or beanieGloves (insulated and waterproof)Thermal socks and linersComfortable and sturdy trekking bootsLightweight shoes or sandals for resting at tea houseGears
Backpack (30-40 liters capacity)Daypack (10-20 liters capacity) for carrying essentials during daily treksSleeping bag (comfortable for sub-zero temperatures)Trekking poles (helpful for stability and reducing strain on knees)Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteriesDuffel bag or large backpack for porters to carry your main luggagePersonal Items
Cash (Nepalese Rupees) for purchasing food, drinks, and souvenirsWater bottles or hydration system (ensure they are insulated)Water purification tablets or a water filterSnacks and energy bars for quick boosts on the trailSunscreen (high SPF) and lip balm with SPFSunglasses with UV protectionPersonal toiletries and a small towelPersonal first aid kit with medications and blister treatmentCamera or smartphone for capturing moments.Other Items You Can Bring
Trekking map or guidebookNotebook and penPlastic bags or stuff sacks (to keep belongings organized and dry)Multi-purpose knife or tool