Discover one of the world's most remote 8000-meter peaks-a stunning pyramid-shaped mountain with breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas, pristine valleys, and the Makalu Barun National Park
Iconic route to the base of Makalu offering spectacular views of the pyramid peak, Barun Valley, and the Eastern Himalayas. Perfect for experienced trekkers seeking remote Himalayan adventure.
Challenging route through the pristine Barun Valley offering spectacular views of Makalu, Chamlang, and the surrounding peaks. For experienced trekkers seeking untouched Himalayan wilderness.
Panoramic viewpoint trail offering stunning 360-degree views of Makalu, Chamlang, and the entire Eastern Himalayan range. Perfect for photographers and those seeking comprehensive mountain vistas.
Makalu, rising 8,485 meters above sea level, stands as the fifth-highest mountain in the world and one of the most challenging peaks in the Himalayas. Its distinctive pyramid shape and remote location have made it a symbol of Himalayan wilderness and mountaineering excellence.
The mountain is part of the Mahalangur Himal range, which includes Everest and Lhotse. The area is home to snow leopards, red pandas, and unique Himalayan flora. The challenging terrain and unpredictable weather make it a destination for serious trekkers and climbers from around the world.
Makalu lies within Makalu Barun National Park, a protected area that preserves some of Nepal's most spectacular alpine scenery and pristine Himalayan ecosystems.
Explore Mountain Features
Experience one of the world's highest and most remote mountains, with its distinctive pyramid shape and dramatic Himalayan setting.
Spot snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahr, and unique alpine flora adapted to the high-altitude environment of the Eastern Himalayas.
Witness the stunning Barun Valley, glacial lakes, and the dramatic contrast between snow-capped peaks and lush alpine meadows.
Capture the ever-changing light on Makalu's pyramid faces, dramatic weather patterns, and the pristine Himalayan wilderness.
Makalu has been a sacred landmark for the local Sherpa and Rai communities for centuries, who called it "Kangchungtse" meaning "black peak" due to its dark appearance from certain angles. The mountain holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.
The first recorded European sighting was in 1921 by the British Mount Everest reconnaissance expedition. The first successful ascent wasn't achieved until 1955 by French climbers Jean Couzy and Lionel Terray.
Now a world-renowned destination for trekkers, climbers, and photographers, Makalu continues to inspire with its challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and stunning beauty, embodying the wild spirit of the Eastern Himalayas.
Learn more about Makalu's history
The distinctive pyramid shape of Makalu offers one of the most dramatic and recognizable mountain profiles in the Himalayas, with steep faces that challenge even the most experienced climbers.
The pristine Barun Valley at the base of Makalu offers one of the most spectacular views in the Himalayas, with the pyramid peak rising above lush alpine meadows and glacial streams.
The vast Eastern Himalayan range provides a stunning backdrop to Makalu and includes numerous other peaks like Chamlang, Baruntse, and the distant Kangchenjunga massif.
Watch for snow leopards hunting on the high slopes, red pandas in the bamboo forests, and Himalayan tahr grazing on the alpine meadows-an integral part of the Makalu experience in wild Nepal.
Prepare for your journey with these essential tips:
Address: Makalu, Sankhuwasabha District, Makalu Barun National Park, Nepal
Coordinates: 27.8897°N, 87.0889°E
Located near Tumlingtar in Makalu Barun National Park, accessible by plane or trek. The main trails start from the village of Tumlingtar.
Wear sturdy boots, layered clothing for all weather conditions, and waterproof gear. Himalayan weather is extremely unpredictable and can change rapidly.
Some shorter trails around Tumlingtar are suitable for families. The main Makalu trails are strenuous and require excellent fitness. The summit is for experienced climbers only.
Yes, permits are required for trekking in Makalu Barun National Park. You'll need both a trekking permit and a national park entry permit.
Absolutely. Makalu offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. Please stay on marked trails and respect the fragile Himalayan environment.
March to May and September to November offer the best conditions, though weather is always unpredictable. Winter trekking requires mountaineering experience due to snow and extreme conditions.
Some areas around Tumlingtar have accessible paths, but the mountain trails themselves are not wheelchair accessible due to their steep and rocky terrain.
Look for snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and unique Himalayan flora adapted to the high-altitude environment of the Eastern Himalayas.