Makalu, Himalayas, Nepal is the fifth-highest mountain in the world, and as you stare at it, you can hear avalanches roar in the distance, and breathe in the purest air. Admire the stunning scenery that seems to transform its shape as light and clouds change through the day. Makalu is situated high in the Himalayas and set in the Makalu Barun National Park, between huge peaks encrusted with glaciers.
Its name comes from the Sanskrit word “Mahakala”, which is the embodiment of death and rebirth. Therefore, it represents the power of the Lord Buddha’s protection. Besides, it is believed to be the kingdom of Mahakala.
Activity/Place Highlights
The trek to Makalu
The journey to Makalu is a nine-day trek to the mountain, and another nine-day trek back. It takes time and effort to visit the gorgeous and remote Makalu. Most of the trek is at high altitude, which makes it certainly not easy. In other words, the trek will debilitate you until you get accustomed to the place and conditions.
However, this trek will take you over many wonderful passes. One moment you will walk through a grassy farmland, and then you find yourself in a terraced hillside.
The people in Makalu
A couple of hours away from your base camp, you can spot some farms known as Khambas. Truly crazy to think people actually live is these bitter and extreme conditions.
Along these routes, you will find a number of tea shops where you can enjoy of a cup of chai tea. Take a moment to sit, and just have a nice chat with the locals.
The highest mountains
As you explore the Makalu region, you can easily spot four of the five highest mountains in the world. Look around and admire the Everest, with its 8848 meters; and the Kanchenjunga, rising 8586 meters to the sky. Lhotse is not so different, with its 8516 meters, and of course, the 8463-meter Makalu.
The Everest base camp
If you still have the energy, you should definitely try to walk to the Everest base camp, situated to the west of Makalu. In that way, you will kill two birds with one stone, meeting both mountains. Then, when you go back, avoid taking the same paths and follow a much more well-trodden route. Follow the standard Everest trek to Lukla and then catch a flight back to Kathmandu. At the end of you trip, you will go back home satisfied with memories of the best parts of the Himalayas.
How to get there
To reach the Makalu region, you have to take a plane to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu, the Nepalese capital. Organize your journey with a local trekking company in the capital. Of course, make sure to take a guide with you, unless you are a professional trekker.
When to go
Above all, the best times to embark on this adventure are April and May, and late September until October.
If you loved this article or found it useful, don’t forget to share it with your adventurous and travel-hacking friends! If you want more posts like this, follow us on Youtube, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter or Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter!