WELCOME TO MAKALU AIR

Makalu Air is the first Single Engine Cessna Grand Caravan C208B aircraft operator in Nepal operating with 3 Cessna Grand Caravans in fleet for charter service. Makalu Air was established on year 2009 by the first Grand Caravan from USA. The Executive Chairman of the company is a highly experienced aviator in Nepal Capt. Phizo Nath Nepali, who is also a co-founder of Buddha Air, Ex-Chairman of Sita Air (P) Ltd and the Ex-Chairman of North-East Shuttles, a charter based airline company in North India, operating with two Dornier 228 and a Grand Caravan. Managing Director, Mr. Aditya Nath Nepal is also a Pilot having extensive experience flying turbo prop aircrafts in STOL operations in Nepal. The company head office is located in Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal and the base station offices in Surkhet and Nepalgunj airport. Since the establishment period, Makalu Air is fully dedicated in quality service to its customers. The major customer of Makalu Air are the World Food Organization (WFO), Nepal Food Corporation(NFC), Various Government and Non Government Organizations, NGO/INGOs, Commercial Business Parties, Private Cargo Companies, Travel Agencies and Foreign Tour Agencies to name few. 

WELCOME TO MAKALU AIR

Our services

Arial Sightseeing Tours

We can arrange Arial sightseeing tours, heli trek tours for people who have limited time or elderly, who are not able to trek due to physical conditions.

Emergency Evacuation

Emergency evacuation is the urgent immediate egress or escape of people away from an area that contains an imminent threat, an on-going threat or a harzard to lives or property.

Freight Transportation

Freight transport is the physical process of transportaing  combodities and mersidise goods and cargo. The term shipping originally referred to transport by sea, but is extended in  American English to refer to transport by.

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  • From Base Camp to the Clouds: Your Himalayan Expedition

    The Himalayas, often called the “Roof of the World,” have captivated adventurers for centuries. Towering peaks, secluded valleys, and rich cultural heritage make this region a paradise for trekkers, mountaineers, and explorers. Whether you’re dreaming of trekking to a legendary base camp or taking a scenic flight over snow-capped summits, this Ultimate Himalayan Expedition Guide will provide you with key insights, preparation tips, and advice for a truly unforgettable experience.

    Why the Himalayas Are the Ultimate Expedition Destination

    Awe-Inspiring Natural Beauty

    The Himalayas boast eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, including Mount Everest and Makalu. These snow-clad giants stand as a testament to nature’s grandeur.

    Diverse Trekking Routes

    From beginner-friendly walks through terraced hillsides to technical climbs up ice-laden peaks, the region offers treks and expeditions for every skill level.

    Rich Cultural Heritage

    The Himalayas are home to vibrant communities and centuries-old traditions. Temples, monasteries, and local festivals add a unique cultural dimension to every expedition.

    Choosing the Right Base Camp

    Everest Base Camp (EBC):

    Everest Base Camp (EBC)
    Everest Base Camp (EBC): Photo By: C. Scott Watson
    • Highlights: Panoramic views of Everest, cultural encounters with the Sherpa community, bustling teahouse villages.
    • Trekking Duration: 12–14 days (round trip).
    • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to altitude.

    Makalu Base Camp:

    • Highlights: Lesser-crowded trails, up-close views of Mount Makalu (the fifth highest peak in the world), remote wilderness experience.
    • Trekking Duration: Around 15–20 days (round trip).
    • Difficulty: Challenging, recommended for experienced trekkers.

    Annapurna Base Camp (ABC):

    Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
    • Highlights: Diverse landscapes (rice paddies, forests, alpine meadows), spectacular 360-degree mountain views.
    • Trekking Duration: 7–10 days (round trip).
    • Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for intermediate trekkers.

    Each base camp offers distinct experiences, so choose based on your fitness level, time constraints, and desire for either popular or secluded routes.

    Pre-Expedition Preparations

    Physical Conditioning

    • Cardiovascular Training: Focus on running, swimming, or cycling to build endurance.
    • Strength and Endurance: Incorporate leg workouts like squats, lunges, and uphill hikes with a weighted backpack.
    • Altitude Acclimatization: If possible, train in higher altitudes or use simulated high-altitude training.

    Permits and Documentation

    • Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card for popular routes.
    • Conservation Area Permits (e.g., Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).
    • Restricted Area Permits for certain regions like Makalu Barun.

    Trekking Agency & Guides

    • Professional Guide: Offers local expertise, ensures safety, and handles logistics.
    • Porters: Often essential for carrying heavy loads, especially for extended expeditions.
    • Travel Insurance: Ensure your policy covers trekking at high altitudes and emergency evacuations.

    Essential Gear & Packing Checklist

    1. Hiking Boots: High-quality, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
    2. Layered Clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and waterproof outer shells.
    3. Sleeping Bag: Rated for sub-zero temperatures.
    4. Trekking Poles: Help maintain balance and reduce strain on knees during steep ascents/descents.
    5. Headlamp & Extra Batteries: Crucial for early morning starts or late-day hikes.
    6. Personal Medications & First-Aid Kit: Include altitude sickness medication (like Diamox), pain relievers, and basic wound care supplies.
    7. Water Purification System: Filter or purification tablets to ensure you’re drinking safe water.
    8. Snacks & Nutrition Bars: High-energy snacks for quick boosts during your trek.

    High-Altitude Safety Tips

    1. Acclimatize Gradually: Take rest days at intermediate altitudes.
    2. Stay Hydrated: Aim for 3-4 liters of water daily.
    3. Know the Symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness): Headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
    4. Descend if Necessary: If symptoms persist, don’t push yourself higher.
    5. Travel with Professionals: Guides can quickly identify and treat early signs of altitude-related issues.

    Cultural Encounters & Responsible Tourism

    Exploring the Himalayas isn’t just about summiting peaks; it’s also about immersing yourself in local culture.

    • Home-Stays & Teahouses: Stay in local-run accommodations to experience authentic food and hospitality.
    • Participate in Local Festivals: If your trek aligns with regional celebrations, take the opportunity to learn about local customs.
    • Leave No Trace: Practice responsible tourism by carrying out all non-biodegradable waste and respecting the natural environment.

    From Base Camp to the Clouds: Taking Flight with Makalu Air

    After days (or weeks) of trekking, elevate your adventure—literally—with a scenic flight over the Himalayas. Makalu Air specializes in high-altitude flights, offering:

    • Breathtaking Aerial Views: Panoramic vistas of towering peaks, glaciers, and remote valleys.
    • Efficient Travel: Save days of downhill trekking or long drives, especially in rugged terrain.
    • Safe & Reliable Aircraft: Makalu Air’s fleet and experienced pilots prioritize safety, even in challenging weather conditions.
    • Unique Photography Opportunities: Capture the Himalayas in a way few people ever see—like a bird in flight.

    Why Fly with Makalu Air?

    • Decades of experience in high-altitude conditions.
    • Customized flight options, including charter services.
    • Highly skilled local pilots who understand the terrain.
    • A commitment to sustainable aviation practices.

    Best Time to Embark on Your Expedition

    • Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures.
    • Autumn (September–November): Crisp weather, excellent visibility, ideal for both trekking and scenic flights.
    • Winter (December–February): Fewer crowds but extremely cold at higher altitudes, suitable for experienced trekkers seeking solitude.
    • Monsoon (June–August): Heavy rainfall can make trails slippery and flights less predictable, but the countryside is lush and green.

    A journey from base camp to the clouds in the Himalayas is more than just a trek—it’s a transformative experience that combines physical challenge, natural grandeur, and cultural immersion. By choosing the right base camp, preparing thoroughly, respecting local traditions, and taking a scenic flight with Makalu Air, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a curious traveler, the Himalayas offer an unparalleled expedition that continues to inspire awe, adventure, and discovery.