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Makalu Trek -18 Days

  • Based on 1 review(s)

Makalu trek in eastern Nepal is protected by the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Project. Established in 1992, it covers 2330 sq km.

Trip Duration : 18 Days
Max Altitude : Upto 5755m
Group Size : 2 - 15
DIFFICULTY : Moderate
ARRIVAL ON : Kathmandu Nepal
DEPARTURE FROM : Kathmandu Nepal

Trip Overview

Makalu trek in eastern Nepal is protected by the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Project. Established in 1992, it covers 2330 sq km. Among the 16 mountains in the park, it is home to Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world (8463m/ 27,766ft).

The world’s fifth-highest mountain. Formerly a restricted area, it spans five major ecological zones where can be found the lush, tropical Arun Valley, dense forests or rhododendron, and fir and alpine meadows that lead to the mighty Barun glacier. From the base camp, anyone can view the spectacular Mt. Makalu.

This mainly low-altitude Makalu trek is centered on the Arun Valley, in eastern Nepal. The sub-tropical valley floor of the mighty Arun River is in places densely forested, contrasting with the terraced slopes higher up, which are farmed by villagers of diverse tribal groups. High pastures typify the upper slopes, which border on the Makalu-Barun National Park, an important conservation area for many threatened species.

The trails rise from 850 meters (2,788ft) to 5000 meters (16,900ft) above sea level.

SHORT ITINERARY

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu airport. Our Airport Representative transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle

Day 02 :

Half day city guide tour then drive back to hotel and preparation for trekking. City tour 4 hours.

Day 03 :

After breakfast transfer domestic airport and flight to Tumlingtar then drive to Num by local Jeep. Flight for 45 minutes then drive 5:30 hours by Jeep.

Day 04 :

Num to Seduwa. Walking 6 hours

Day 05 :

Seduwa to Tashi Gaun. Walking 4 hours

Day 06 :

Khongma Danda to Dobate via Shipton La pass 4125m/1353. Walking 7 hours

Day 07 :

Dobate to Yangri Kharka. Walking 7 hours

Day 08 :

Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka. Walking 6:30 hours.

Day 09 :

Langmale Kharka to Shershong. Walking 7 hours

Day 10 :

Shershong to Makalu Base Camp. Walking 6:30 hours.

Day 11 :

Rest and explore around Mt. Makalu Base Camp.

Day 12 :

Rest and explore around Mt. Makalu Base Camp.

Day 13 :

Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka. Walking 6 hours

Day 14 :

Yangri Kharka to Dobate. Walking 7 hours.

Day 15 :

Dobate to Khongma Danda. Walking 6 hours.

Day 16 :

Khongma Danda to Seduwa (8 hrs)

Day 17 :

Seduwa to Num. Walking 5:30 hours.

Day 18 :

Num to Tumlingtar by drive by local Jeep. 5:30 hours.

Day 19 :

After breakfast an early morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla and transfer to the hotel at 3 stars level, inclusive breakfast. Flight time 30 minutes. O/N at hotel.

Day 20 :

The trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you to the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal. Driving 15 km – 10 minutes

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu airport. Our Airport Representative transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle
Max Altitude: 1345m/4412ft
Accommodation: 3 stars level hotel

Day 02 Half day city guide tour then drive back to hotel and preparation for trekking. City tour 4 hours.
Meal: Breakfast
Max Altitude: 1345m/4412ft
Accommodation: 3 stars level hotel

Day 03 After breakfast transfer domestic airport and flight to Tumlingtar then drive to Num by local Jeep. Flight for 45 minutes then drive 5:30 hours by Jeep.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 1500/4920ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 04 Num to Seduwa. Walking 6 hours
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 1493 m/4897ft)
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 05 Seduwa to Tashi Gaun. Walking 4 hours
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 3500m/11480ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 06 Khongma Danda to Dobate via Shipton La pass 4125m/1353. Walking 7 hours
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 3650m/11972ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 07 Dobate to Yangri Kharka. Walking 7 hours
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 3557m/11666ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 08 Yangri Kharka to Langmale Kharka. Walking 6:30 hours.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 4410m/14465ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 09 Langmale Kharka to Shershong. Walking 7 hours
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 4630m/15187ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 10 Shershong to Makalu Base Camp. Walking 6:30 hours.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 4870m/15975ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 11 Rest and explore around Mt. Makalu Base Camp.
Meal: 4870m/15975ft)
Max Altitude: 4870m/15975ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 12 Rest and explore around Mt. Makalu Base Camp.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 4870m/15975ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 13 Makalu Base Camp to Yangri Kharka. Walking 6 hours
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 3557m/11666ft)
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 14 Yangri Kharka to Dobate. Walking 7 hours.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 3650m/11972ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 15 Dobate to Khongma Danda. Walking 6 hours.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 3500m/11480ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 16 Khongma Danda to Seduwa (8 hrs)
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 3500m/11480ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 17 Seduwa to Num. Walking 5:30 hours.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 1493 m/4897ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 18 Num to Tumlingtar by drive by local Jeep. 5:30 hours.
Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Max Altitude: 1493 m/4897ft
Accommodation: Tented camp

Day 19 After breakfast an early morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla and transfer to the hotel at 3 stars level, inclusive breakfast. Flight time 30 minutes. O/N at hotel.
Meal: Breakfast
Max Altitude: 1345m/4412ft
Accommodation: 3 stars level hotel

Day 20 The trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you to the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal. Driving 15 km – 10 minutes
Max Altitude: Breakfast

Price Includes

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu, inclusive breakfast at 3 stars level (2 nights before trekking and 1 night after trekking).
  • Meals 3 times a day ( Breakfast, lunch and dinner) with hot drinks tea and coffee in trekking for you.
  • Accommodation tented camp & twin sharing private comfortable room in trekking.
  • All necessary camping gears like two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, Toilet tent, kitchen equipment, mattress.
  • Makalu trekking Map.
  • Both ways domestic flight tickets from Kathmandu to Tumling Taar to Kathmandu, inclusive taxes.
  • An experienced, knowledgeable English Speaking Government license holder trekking guide and strong porter (1 porter for 2 people).
  • Food, drinks, accommodation, insurance, salary, equipment’s, transportation, local tax for Guide and porter.
  • First aid medical kit, Ox meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.
  • Trip achievement certificate.
  • Four season sleeping bag and down jackets to use for trekking, if necessary.
  • Trekking Permits Makalu region .
  • All necessary paper works & Makalu Barun conservation entry permits.
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
  • Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement which will be paid by your insurance company.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All our government taxes, vat, local tax, tourist service charges.

Price Excludes

  • Extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (Except Farewell Dinner)
  • Drinks (cold, alcoholic & Mineral water) in trekking.
  • Personal equipment.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Extra personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, laundry, shower, excess baggage charges).
  • Tips for trekking staffs and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section.

Trip Info

The Makalu trek embarks with one’s arrival in Kathmandu. Then, from Kathmandu the trip continues towards Biguti, Surey dovan, Jagat, Simigaou, Kelchey, Beding, Nagaou, their the trek will stop for acclimatization. After Nagaou the trek continues to Tso Rolpo, Tolumbhu Buka, then crossing Tashi Lakpa pass (5755m), and camp at Thengpo (4300m). And, trek to Khumjung, Khumjung to Namche Bazar, Phakding, then to Lukla and from Lukla to Kathmandu for the final departure.

TREKKING EQUIPMENTS, GEARS & SOME MEDICINES

  We do recommend following equipment's for trekking and Hiking in Nepal.

Head

  • Sun hat
  • Scarf
  • Light balaclava
  • Warm wool hat
  • UV protection one Sunglasses
  • Head torch with extra batteries.

Upper Part Of The Body Upper

  • Tshirts
  • Shirts
  • Sleeveless or body warmer type fleece.
  • Long sleeve shirts
  • Thermal Vest
  • Down Jacket
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Pullover
  • Sports bras (women)
  • Waterproof outer jacket
  • Rain Coat
  • Hand wear
  • Fleece gloves.
  • Warms mittens or gloves.

Lower Body

  • Long Under Wear
  • Short Under Wear
  • Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
  • Warm Trousers
  • Tracksuit pants
  • Lightweight thermal trouser
  • Fleece pants
  • Cotton paints

Footwear

  • Thin inner socks
  • Thick warm wool hiking socks
  • Walking boots with ankle support
  • Trainers or trail shoes
  • Gaiters
  • Micro spikes

Electronics

  • Camera and Accessories
  • Phone
  • Power Bank
  • Solar Panel
  • Travel Adapter

Miscellaneous

  • Book
  • Playing Cards/Games
  • Journal and Pen
  • Snacks and Specialist Food

Hygiene & First Aid

  • Sunscreen
  • Insect Repellent
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toilet Paper
  • Wet Wipes
  • Pocket Hand Warmers
  • Moisturizing skin cream and Lip balm
  • Toiletries
  • Water purifier
  • First Aid

Trek Essentials

  • Passport and Copy
  • Travel Insurance Details
  • Trekking Permit(s)
  • Waterproof Document Wallet
  • Cash

Recommended Medications

  • Guide will take a group first aid kit but please bring personal medications and other items you might use regularly such as
  • Any personal medications
  • Malaria prophylactic tablets
  • Blister treatment
  • Rehydration powder
  • Analgesics (Paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin)
  • Plasters and zinc oxide tape
  • Throat lozenges
  • Diamox

Other Equipment

  • Duffel Bag or Suitcase
  • Day pack
  • Sleeping bag
  • Water bottle
  • Trekking poles
  • Towel

FAQ

Q. Do you provide any gears for trekking?

A. Yes, we do provide roughly 65 liters one duffel bag, sleeping bag and down jacket to use for trekking without extra charge, if you do not have.

Q. Can I rent or buy gears in Kathmandu?

A. You can buy or rent trekking boots and rest of the gears, you need to need to buy.

Q. How much weight does porter carries?

A. We do provide one porter between 2 trekkers. One porter carries 25 to 30 kg respectively.

Q. How much weight does airplane allow to Lukla?

A. Twin Otter and Dornier planes are the primary mode of transport to and from the airstrip at Lukla. It allows 15kg per passenger, including had bag.

Q. Can I take some more gears for paying extra charge?

A. It is hard but some time, they do allow 2 to 3 kg with paying extra charge US$ 2 per kg

Q. When Should I pack my gears?

A. You will have pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu that night you pack trekking gears.

Q. What equipment should I carry at Daypack?

A. Most of our day packs have a capacity of roughly 20 to 24 liters. You need to carry only day use things like water bottle, light jackets, some extra shocks, sun hat, sunglasses, raincoat, light glove, scarf, toilet paper, and small towel, camera, some personal medical, Sunscreen, Passport, money, camera, trekking poles and some snacks. Rest of the gears will be carried by porter.

Q. Can I store suitcase and other unnecessary gears in hotel in Kathmandu or at your office?

A. Yes, you can store either at the hotel in Kathmandu or at our office without extra charge.

 TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc. For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please inquire with them.

  •  USA and Canada: Tugo, United Health Care, World Nomad, Blue Cross
  • Australia and New Zealand: Fast Cover, Allianz Australia
  • Singapore: Ergo, World Nomad (Explore plan level 3)
  • Europe: Europe Assistance, Austrian Alpine Club, Allianz Europe
  • India: ICICI Lombard

 ALTITUDE AND TEMPERATURE IN NEPAL

Altitude (in meter) & Temperature (in degree Celsius) in Nepal over 2000m/6056ft. Trekking areas are only situated over 2000meter in Nepal.

Altitude Spring Summer Autumn Winter
March, April, May June, July, Aug Sept., Oct,  Nov Dec, Jan, Feb
Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min.
2000m -2500m 27 5 29  9 25 2 20 -2
3000m – 3500m 12 -5 20 -1 17 -2 14 -7
4000m – 4500m 10  -7 14 -3 12 -7 7 -10
4500m- 5500m 9 -10 12 -5 10 -15 5  -20

Map & Elevation

Video

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to do the Makalu Trek is during the spring and autumn season. During this time of the year, the weather is stable and you can travel in the clear sky. You will get a wonderful view of the surroundings. In addition, if you travel here during the autumn season you will experience the biggest festival in the country.

The essentials that you should carry on the Makalu Trek are listed below

  • Jackets (Fiber or down).
  • Woolen shirts and thick sweaters.
  • Waterproof jacket with hood or poncho.
  • Tracksuit.
  • Track shoes
  •  Pair of Trousers
  • Thermal Underwear and Thermal coat
  • 2 pairs of loose-fitting long shorts/ skirts
  • Pair of sandals
  • Pair of GLoves
  • Thermal underwear.
  • Trekking Sticks.
  • Long-sleeved shirt.
  • Towel and Hankies.
  • Lightweight walking boots
  • 2 pairs of thin socks and 2 pairs of woolen socks
  • Snow glasses and sunglasses
  • Woolen hat.
  • Duffle bag or kit bag to carry to gear while trekking.
  • 2-4 plastic bags 2-4 large plastic bags to separate clean clothes from dirty ones. 6-10 smaller plastic bags to dispose of garbage.
  • Daypack bag to carry your requirements.
  • Water Bottle, water purifying tablets
  • Quick Dry Towels
  • Headlamp, Torch, Candles
  • Matches / Lighters
  • Binocular, Camera, trekking map and compass, Knife, reading materials, pencil, rubber, pen and notebook, lip guard

The Makalu Trek is one of the easiest treks in Nepal however, you should consider some of the challenges during the Makalu Trek. Some of them are listed below.

  • Weather Condition and Temperature
  • The route you have chosen for climbing
  • Physical Fitness
  • Sometimes, High Altitude Sickness
  • The distance you covered in the whole trip.
  • Clothing and Equipment

If you follow our itinerary, the Makalu Trek is 18 days long.

There is no special requirement for the Makalu Trek. Almost anyone can do the trek with little knowledge about the trek. Similarly, to do this trek successfully you need to be in perfect physical condition. Likewise, you need to be mentally tough to counter the harsh temperature of the trek.  Similarly, the Makalu Trek is easier than the actual expedition.

To complete this trek you should be older than 16 years old and younger than 60 years to successfully reach the summit of the trek. However, this is an easier trek for anyone passionate about trekking.

The temperature in Makalu Trek is almost stable and moderate. Due to the high altitude, it is usually between 15C and 20C all year round. Therefore, it is suitable for mountaineering all year round. Many climbers climb here every year. However, the best time to come here is during the spring and autumn seasons. Experience the best climate and weather at this time of the year. You will also get other trekker companions at this time of the year.

We offer Lodge with dual proportion foundation lodging at some point of the trekking and camp for the Base Camp and above Base Camp. Likewise, all food consists of Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner at some point of trekking. Likewise, we additionally offer western and Nepali meals that are very healthy. In addition, the motels we offer are very safe and secure too.

Makalu Trek has easy, moderate and rewarding trekking routes that you can enjoy on your journey. The level of fitness also depends on the route you choose. A simple trek explores hill trails that are smooth and do not require long trekking times. These can be done by anyone. Moderate treks include even crossing difficult trails and high-altitude paths. These require a person to be in good physical condition. It also includes a long walking time of about 5-6 hours on average. Finally, the fierce ones require trekking expertise and mental toughness. The trail crosses 5000 meters, so it needs to be in good shape.

If you’ve got a guide with you he may also have a well-prepared scientific package with him but, it’s continually a bonus to have one with yourself. While trekking, you would possibly stumble upon minor bodily troubles that would disturb the tempo of the trek. So, having a medicinal drug and primary resource package lets you address and be equipped to address such troubles.
You can recall sporting the subsequent gadgets to your scientific package:

Personal Medication:

Eye Drops
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Azithromycin
Decongestants
Pain killers
Paracetamol

First Aid Kit:

Insect repellent
Antiseptic Cream
Sun cream/Face cream
Throat Lozenges
Bandages
Gauze
Multivitamin pills etc.

Makalu Trek is a modest trek, but it can be a bit difficult for new trekkers. Therefore, trekker safety is the most important factor for us. Similarly, we take full care of consumers and their belongings during ascension. Similarly, our journey constantly monitors each area of ​​our journey. So when you travel with us, you don’t have to worry about your belongings. Similarly, the accommodation we offer is very safe for your stay. This allows you to fully enjoy the climb.

It is not a good choice to carry your children with you to the Makalu Trek. Exceptions are however made and if they are old enough then you can take them with you following the necessary protocols and rules.

While traveling, it is advisable to drink boiled, filtered, and purified water instead of tap water or well water. You can ask the property to provide boiling water or mineral water. It is convenient to have a cleaning tablet or filter. You can also use UV treatment. Carrying LifeStraw is also essential for trekking adventures. LifeStraw is portable and easy to use in any situation, so you need to keep it in your backpack.

Reviews

EXCELLENT rating
Based on 26 reviews
Unique path trekking company has excellent staff on ground to make the trekking experience very enjoyable and memorable. The guide and porters go out of their way to make each and every member of the team feel safe and secured. Mr Babu the founder owner of the company is very responsive and is able to assist every member of the team with their individual needs. I would recommend engaging Unique Path for Himalaya trekking.
Sandeep Dasgupta
Sandeep Dasgupta
2023-09-30
I like trekking with Unique Path, the guides of this company many times made my way comfortable and safe. I traveled with them to Lobuche, Mera, Island and other places solo and in the groups with my friends. Unique Path is a reliable partner and I plan to trek with them again in Langtang region this autumn.
Andrey Oktyabrev
Andrey Oktyabrev
2023-05-29
I have used Unique Path three times and each time the team were all helpful, friendly and informative. Every aspect of our trip to Nepal was taken care of - Pick up at the airport to take us to our hotel. Next day the excitement of getting our trekking details and depending on the trip setting out with our guide and porter. My husband and I prefer to hike on our own, so we did no group options. Our itinerary was always followed exactly. When I go hiking in Nepal this company is my first point of contact. They are a great team and are totally recommended by me and my husband.
Sylvia Schillings
Sylvia Schillings
2023-05-29
Unique Path is a great choice for anyone who wants to explore the Himalayas. My wife and I made several treks with Unique Path to Manaslu, Kangchenjunga, Tilicho Lake, and Mustang. It goes without saying, that the scenery in Nepal is stunning. Lots of opportunity to learn about the culture and religion and traditions of Nepal. The people we met along the way were engaging and wonderful. Unique Path's staff was fantastic throughout all the trips. They were very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. They arranged everything from transportation to accommodation to food. They also provided all the necessary equipment and guidance and handled all the permit applications. I highly recommend Unique Path trekking to anyone who loves adventure and nature. These were once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I will never forget. I am available as a reference. David
DaveBessie Parsnick
DaveBessie Parsnick
2023-05-22
I have yet to conclude this trip due to the Pandemic but Babu's response and tour guide plan has been exemplary - I cannot wait to make the trip!
Rachel Glaysher
Rachel Glaysher
2023-05-19
Myself and 2 buddies hired Unique Path Trekking to coordinate an EBC trek back in 2014. We couldn't have been more happy with the results...Everything went flawlessly and we had the adventure of a lifetime. Babu and his staff / guides / porters were top-notch and I highly recommend them to anyone who may be reading this.
Marc Ferrari
Marc Ferrari
2023-05-18
As with all treks, there will be unforeseen circumstances and you’re always beholden to nature. So you want a guide and an agency that is not only experienced enough but also sensitive and quick to changes on ground. I am very grateful for the deep experience that our guide, Dambar had. He made us feel safe and constantly had everything under control despite the weather and some early sickness some of us had. Coupled with his sharp wit and deep knowledge, this became such an enjoyable climb that was filled with priceless stories that I can’t wait to tell the kids about. The porters too were a lively bunch that ultimately became friends and we shared lots of fun moments on the mountain together. Babu ensured that our arrivals, arrangements and any administrative hassles were smooth and out of our minds so we could focus on the climb ahead. Thank you Unique Path trekking & expedition. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a great time while knowing you’re in safe hands!
Josiah Ng
Josiah Ng
2023-05-16
We were very fortunate to have Unique Path Trekking for our EBC with 3 Himalaya passes expedition, we were so happy/satisfied with Unique Path trekking. Babu ( owner of Unique Path Trekking) is so kind, knowledgeable and mellow personality so does their staff ( all guides and porters ). We had great time during this expedition in terms of lodging/food. We had large group ( ~ 18 ppl ) and believe or not no one had any single complain of food. Their guides and porters are so knowledgeable, smart, humorous made our entire expedition lots of fun. They take care of us with positive attitudes with smiley face in entire trip. I definitely recommend Unique Path Trekking for any expedition in Himalaya ( we're looking forward to go with them in Annapurna expedition in near future ). You will very glad/happy if you choose Unique Path and Trekking.
Umesh Patel
Umesh Patel
2023-05-16
Babu and his group are exceptional We have done 2 trips organized by Babu We went to Everest base camp and recently to chitwan, Pokara and part of Annapurna cercuit Their guides are very good We will definitely use Babu and his guides again
Guru Motgi
Guru Motgi
2023-05-06
I just returned from a wonderful hike to Everest base camp with helicopter return. I was traveling solo am so grateful to Manager Babu and guide Suresh for looking after me. It is a trip I will remember the rest of my life. We started with a half day tour of Kathmandu and then flew to lukla on the next day to begin the trek. All the arrangements were made ahead of time and the folks unique path team constantly got on the phone to make sure the logistics went smoothly. Suresh kept a moderate pace and a great sense of humor. We made good time throughout the hikes and always got to the lodges on time and in daylight with energy left for the next day. The weather also cooperated this March and we had beautiful sunny skies and gorgeous Mountain View’s throughout the trek. I really could not ask for anything more and would very much recommend unique path
Janice Cheng
Janice Cheng
2023-05-06
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