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Makalu Arun Social Trek

A local, non-profit-distributing trekking agency in Khandbari, founded in 2010 to make tourism benefit the people of the Makalu Arun valley.

Who We Are

Makalu Arun Social Trek (MAST) is a trusted, local non-profit dedicated to Makalu trekking and social impact. We focus on Social Impact Trekking in Nepal. We connect great mountain adventures with real help for local people.

The SESF Foundation established MAST in 2010 with a mission to make sure every trekking program supports the people living in the mountains. When you trek with us, you are more than just a tourist. You are a partner who helps the villages in the Makalu and Arun Valley region of Nepal

Every step you take with MAST supports:

Education: We help local disadvantaged children go to school and obtain quality education.
Income: We make sure local families earn a fair wage from the tourism business.
Future Growth: We use social trekking activities to help our communities get stronger.

Join us for a journey where yourtrekking adventure directly contributes to the well-being of the mountains and its people in Nepal. to lead the way in Social Impact Trekking Nepal

Our Story

How MAST Began

In 2010, the SESF Foundation committee met in Khandbari to find a way to fund the Foundation’s work. We had noticed something: many trekkers passed through our beautiful villages, but they camped in tents and carried their own food. Very little of their money reached local people.

So we asked ourselves: “Can we organize trekking in a different way that helps our community?”

With advice from a legal expert in Khandbari, we created a social trekking company that gives back. We called it Makalu Arun Social Trek (MAST), and our slogan became Makalu Trekking for Social Impact: a way for travellers to enjoy the mountains while supporting local families.

MAST Today

Today, MAST is a government-registered, licensed, non-profit-distributing trekking agency, and we have guided more than 60 groups from around the world. When you trek with us:

Local jobs: we hire experienced porter-guides from our own villages.
Authentic stays: you sleep in family-run tea houses and community homestays.
Giving back: many guests also volunteer in local schools or villages during their trip.
See our company legal documents for more information

MAST Mission, Vision and Value

Our Mission

To create authentic, community-driven trekking experiences in Nepal that improve local livelihoods, protect Himalayan nature and culture, and inspire responsible travel.

Our Vision

To be Nepal's leading social trekking organization, connecting travellers with remote mountain communities in meaningful ways.

Our Value

Community first: tourism income should stay with local people. Honesty: clear, service-based pricing with no hidden costs. Respect: for local culture, traditions and the environment. Safety: small groups and experienced local guides.