Makalu Barun National Park
In Nepali: मकालु बरुण राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज
Makalu Barun is one of the most biologically rich corners of the Himalaya. In a short distance the land rises from subtropical Arun valley forest to the ice of Makalu (8,485 m), and the park shelters red pandas, clouded leopards, dozens of rhododendron species and hundreds of kinds of birds.
The Makalu Base Camp trek starts near Num or Tashigaon, crosses the Shipton La and descends into the Barun valley, a glacier-carved trench under the giant walls of Makalu, Chamlang and Baruntse. It takes about two weeks and needs good preparation; lodges exist but are basic.
What to see and do
The trek to Makalu Base Camp (about 4,870 m) is the park's main draw. From Num or Tashigaon it climbs steeply through forest to Khongma and over the Shipton La and Keke La passes, then drops into the Barun valley with its waterfalls, cliffs and high pastures at Yangle Kharka and Langmale. The final days reach the base camp beneath the south face of Makalu, with Everest and Lhotse visible from nearby ridges.
Lower down, the Arun valley has Rai and Sherpa villages, and the park's buffer zone includes community forests where you can see langur monkeys and many forest birds.
Good to know
Park entry fees apply and a guide is recommended. The Shipton La section can hold snow into May and after early winter storms. Lodges are open in the main seasons but are few and very simple; carry snacks and water purification. Tumlingtar airport and the road to Khandbari make access easier than it used to be.
Quick answers
- Where is Makalu Barun National Park?
- Makalu Barun National Park is in Sankhuwasabha district, Koshi Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Makalu Barun National Park?
- About 4,870 m (15,978 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Makalu Barun National Park?
- For a 16-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 148,500 (≈ US$1,100) per person on a budget, or NPR 171,500 (≈ US$1,270) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 67,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Makalu Barun National Park?
- Plan 14 nights there for the trek; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 16 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Makalu Barun National Park?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter Makalu Barun National Park (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Makalu Barun National Park?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Makalu Barun National Park?
- April–May for rhododendrons; October–November for clear views
- How do I get to Makalu Barun National Park?
- Fly to Tumlingtar, drive via Khandbari to Num or Tashigaon. It is about 146 km (straight line) from Biratnagar, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Makalu Barun National Park called in Nepali?
- मकालु बरुण राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज
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