Compare Makalu Base Camp Challenge by Evaneos vs Delhi to Kathmandu Quest (Without Nepal Trek) by Contiki

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu from your home country. Meet and greet by our representative, then transfer by private vehicle to your hotel. After check-in, you'll be handed a welcome drink and our representative will brief you about the programme, hand you other general information, and you can collect all necessary documents and permits. Overnight in hotel.
• Day 2: After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to airport 1½ hours before your flight time. The flight takes you over a range of snow-capped peaks from Langtang all the way to Mount Everest,  Makalu, and Mount  Kanchenjunga. Upon arrival, you'll meet your trekking crew (guide, sherpa, porters) at Tumlingtar Airport, and you'll head off to Num by local vehicle.  The first day's trail leads you to the serene forest of rhododendron, oaks, and hemlocks, as we climb to the top of the ridge.  From there it is downhill for two hours to the overnight camp at Num, which is a small village with about fifteen houses and a primary school. Overnight in a tented camp on a full board basis. 45 min flight to Tumlingtar, 5 hr drive to Num
• Day 3: After breakfast at the lodge, we descend incredibly steep and terraced slopes towards the Arun River, nearly 800m below. The lower slopes of this narrow valley are densely forested and the paths can be quite slippery, so we recommend sturdy walking boots. After reaching the bottom, cross the suspension bridge across Arun River and climb back out of the rainforest, reaching our lunch stop at Runruma. Another steep climb takes us to the small village of Seduwa. On the way, we'll enter Makalu National Park and register our permits. Overnight in a tented camp on full board basis. ​Approximately 5 hrs walking
• Day 4: After breakfast, we have an easy and pleasant walk to Tashi Gaon which takes you to rural farm villages, on the gradual trail through fields and terraces. As we approach Tashi Gaon, it is an uphill climb for an hour through the millet and rice fields. It takes about 4/5 hrs to reach Tashi Gaon. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. ​Approx 4/5 hrs walking
• Day 5: After breakfast, we begin our walk to reach today’s destination point.  The trail leads towards the Khongma La, the last stop before crossing the Shipton La, then drops down into the supper sections of the remote Barun Valley. You'll walk through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, before reaching pastures with traces of temporary shepherd huts. From here, onwards to Kahuma ridge is a strenuous uphill climb. Check in at basic local lodge, and relax with the scenic views of mountains surrounding you. Overnight in tented camp on full board basis. Approx 4/5 hrs walking
• Day 6: After breakfast at the lodge, we gradually climb uphill towards the Shipton La (4220m), which  takes a few hours. Upon reaching Kalo Pokhari Pass over Kele Lake (4152m) it's on to the beautiful valley of Dobate (Dobato). Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. Approx 5/6 hrs walking
• Day 7: Early breakfast, before a gentle walk towards rhododendron forests leading on to the Barun Valley - one of the least explored areas in the eastern Himalayan region of Nepal. This landscape boasts many species of flowering plants, birds, and mammals, including the endangered 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 Yangri Kharka. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. Approx 6/7 hrs walking
• Day 8: After breakfast, we continue our trek following the Barun River upstream on the valley gorge towards Nehe-Kharka, one of the summer pastures for the local folks of Tashi and Navagaun. Onwards we'll cross the wooden bridge on the Barun River and walk across the boulders, where a large prayer wall at Ramara awaits. After 2-3 hours of walking, the vegetation gets sparse until we reach Yak Kharka. Overnight in tented camp on full a board basis.
• Day 9: After breakfast, we'll trek towards Sherson (4650m) which is known as the lower base camp of Makalu. There are number of stone enclosures at this high grazing ground with outstanding views of host of peaks, including the upper part of Makalu south face, Mount Baruntse (7,220m) and Sherson. From Sherton, we continue our walk to Makalu Base camp, which takes 3-4 hours.  Upon reaching Barun Glacier, stop for photos at its glacial pond, known as Barun Pokhari. Then, after a climb on the moraine ridge, you'll be met by more spectacular views of Mt. Makalu, and of the usual hidden east sides of Lhotse and Everest, which loom above Barun Glacier to the north west. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. Approx 5/6 hrs walking
• Day 10: Get your camera and trekking kit ready for a day's excursion to Makalu West Ridge, before getting back to the camp. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis.
• Day 11: After breakfast, we return to Yangle Kharka (3610m) by descending about 1260m. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. Approx 6/7 hrs walking
• Day 12: After an early breakfast, we retrace our trek back to Khong La, which takes about 7/8 hours in total. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. Approx 7/8 hrs walking
• Day 13: After another early breakfast, it's on to Dobate. Check-in at the lodge upon arrival, and put your feet up before dinner.  Approx 5/6 hrs walking
• Day 14: After breakfast, we trek on to Seduwa following the same path back as the one we previously took. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. Approx 7 hrs walking
• Day 15: Today, we have a short walk downhill through the farm fields to Num Village. After lunch, we'll drive on to Tumlingtar. Overnight in tented camp on a full board basis. Approx 4 hrs walking
• Day 16: After an early morning breakfast, we take a local vehicle to Tumlingtar Airport (about 4/5 hrs) and then an onwards flight to Kathmandu. There, you leave your trekking crew and say your goodbyes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu Airport, we'll transfer you to your hotel.  
• Day 17: Prepare for a full day of sightseeing and souvenir shopping! Visit the local markets, and popular sites of Kathmandu - Pashupatinath (crematory temple), the Boudhhanath Stupa, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples that used to be the seat of the ancient Malla Kings of Kathmandu. An intriguing piece here is the 17th century stone inscription set in to the wall of the palace with writing in fifteen different languages.  There are also three museums inside  the palace building.  Other highlights include Machchhendranath Temple, Akash Temple, the Temple of Kumari (Kumari Ghar), Kasthamandap, and Jaishi Dewal. Back to your hotel for the evening to put your feet up.  At 7 p. m. , we will escort you to a local restaurant for a goodbye dinner with our local Nepali staff.
• Day 18: Your trip reaches its end! According to your flight schedule, we’ll transfer you to the international airport 3 hours before your flight time. We hope you've had an incredible trip.

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Welcome to the intoxicating cacophony of colours, smells, spices, culture and chaos that is Delhi. We'll bond with our Contiki fam today before kick-starting our adventure.

The Ashtan Sarovar Portico (or similar)

Day 2: Delhi

Today we’ll explore one of the world’s most hustling, bustling cities (home to a cool 25m people!) With a local guide, we’ll discover Old Delhi & other top sights. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours to explore Delhi your way. Dinner tonight is a DIY vibe, tasting the best of Delhi with your new crew.

The Ashtan Sarovar Portico (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 3: Delhi to Varanasi

Today we'll leave the magical mayhem of Delhi behind and catch a flight to Varanasi... Nestled alongside the Ganges is Varanasi, one of the holiest Hindu sites in the world - a place where pilgrims come to bathe in the sacred waters and cremate their loved ones. This place can be described as India in a nutshell - not for the faint of heart, but spiritual, riotous and touchingly passionate.

The India Hotel (Or Similar)

Breakfast

Day 4: Varanasi via the River Ganges

Rise and shine! We're headed down to the river, boarding a small boat as dawn alights the Ganges. We'll watch the Ghat in front of us slowly come to life, as pilgrims bathe in the holy river, wash away their sins and fill bottles with holy water (we wouldn't recommend doing the same - it may be holy but that doesn't mean it's hygienic). After watching the sunrise from our boat, we'll weave our way through the narrow lanes, and get to see how life operates on the riverside. As the afternoon draws in, we'll explore the ruins of Sarnath, another holy location for another ancient religion. Located on the outskirts of the city, this is said to be the location from which Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Finish off an epic day by getting lost (on purpose) in the spidery lanes of the old city where our local guide will show Varanasi's hidden gems.

The India Hotel (Or Similar)

Breakfast

Day 5: Varanasi to Lucknow

Today we can officially tick Varanasi off our lists. Next, we’ll make our way to a true historical hotspot – Lucknow, here we come. We'll have a free evening to admire Lucknow's ethereal bazaars, opulent Raj-era architecture and delicious food. Whether you decide to walk its broad boulevards or beautiful gardens, you'll wonder how this place has escaped the overwhelming tourist attention of some other Indian towns.

La Place Sarovar Portico (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 6: Lucknow

Long regarded as India's centre for culture and art, Lucknow is full of wonders for us to explore this morning. We won't waste any time, as we start off with a locally guided sightseeing tour, coming up close to La Martiniere building - a beautiful and historic private school - and the Asafi Imambara, one of the most regal architectural complexes in the world. Taking almost a decade to build, the building famously employed locals in the region while a ravaging famine swept India. Lucknow is also famous for its Awadhi cuisine, so we recommend taking a culinary walk of the city, hopping in and out of roadside eateries and getting a complete taste of the local culture.

La Place Sarovar Portico (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 7: Lucknow to Agra

See ya, Lucknow, we're headed to one of the world's oldest cities. Then, you'll have the opportunity to get your bucket list ticked with an optional visit to one of mankind's masterpieces: the majestic Taj Mahal (you'll also get the chance to visit the 17th century Agra Fort). The Taj Mahal, the 17th century memorial building considered by many to be the most beautiful building in the world, naturally dominates Agra, but it isn't the only thing to be found here. The city, curving along the holy Yamuna River, is dotted with mausoleums, tombs and heaving marketplaces.

The Retreat (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 8: Agra to Kathmandu via Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation & Care Centre and Delhi

Jumping on our air-conditioned coach we'll head to our next stop... We'll visit the Wildlife SOS Elephant Rescue Centre, where we'll meet over 20 rescued elephants and witness the only elephant hospital in Asia. Wasting no time this afternoon, we're getting a speedy flight to Kathmandu, Nepal... We've arrived into Kathmandu!

Hotel Majestic & Spa (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 9: Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park

We've arrived into Kathmandu! Next up… A world heritage reserve teeming with rhinos, deer, monkeys, elephants, sloth bears, and even the majestic Bengal Tiger.

Chitwan Forest Resort (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10: Chitwan National Park

One of the remaining undisturbed areas of the Terai region, this rich ecosystem is wedged between two river valleys on the outer Himalayas, which provide a beautiful backdrop to the steep cliffs and lush plantlands. This morning we'll take a jungle walk to soak in the spectacular beauty, before heading out on our once-in-a-lifetime jeep safari. One of the last safe havens for the one-horned rhino and the Bengal tiger - both heavily endangered -  Chitwan offers one of the best wildlife spotting experiences on the planet.

Chitwan Forest Resort (or similar)

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Chitwan National Park to Kathmandu

Today we're headed back to Nepal's bustling capital. It's time to uncover Kathmandu on a locally guided tour of its UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durbar Square - the old royal palace of the former kingdom, parts of which were tragically destroyed in the earthquake of 2015. As we walk, we'll marvel at the medieval temples, captivating courtyards and charming mayhem.

Hotel Majestic & Spa (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 12: Kathmandu

Our Adventure ends today in Kathmandu, but our hearts will remain amongst the hills, jungles and sacred sites of India and Nepal, and there's always a new trek around the corner. If you want to tick off one last bucket list item before you go...there's a chance to take a scenic flight across the Himalayas this morning.

Breakfast