Everest Region Annapurna Region Remote Region Wild Life Rafting India Tibet Bhutan

The trek to this unspoiled remote region of geographical contrast with rich biological diversity and fascinating culture will be an unforgettable experience offering a rare opportunity to experience nature in its purest form.

GRADE: MODERATE - CHALLENGING
DURATION: 26 DAYS
(21 DAYS TENTED TREK, 5 DAYS KATHMANDU)

Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area features the Arun and the Barun rivers, pleasant valleys, green fields, Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world at 8,463 meters, deep green forests and lakes, and allows the visitors to interact with the Kirati people. Considered challenging and remote, this area sees few visitors and this means undamaged cultures, more wildlife, and better managed resources. As Makalu straddles the Nepal-Tibet border and the 2,330 square kilometres that make up the national park and conservation area borders of Everest National Park and the Quomolongma National Park of Tibet, the likelihood of wildlife encounters increase.

Our trip to Makalu is especially attractive. First you land on the Tumlingtar airstrip, about 500 meters above the sea level and takes you from semi-tropical surroundings and atmosphere to the high Himalayan environment. People, lifestyles, and the scenery change dramatically as you head higher. The mighty Arun River rushes beside you and if you are a fishing enthusiast, have your fishing gear prepared to catch the mighty mahseer, sucker fish, and the himalayan snow trout. Besides wonderful mountain views, the great Arun Valley, deep gorges, and culture that goes back to the late BCs, you will see farming communities, traders, and, perhaps, scholars from the West who have come out to study wildlife and nature.

From the bazaar of Khadbari, you pass through forest covers, corn and buckwheat fields, steep terraces and climb down the steep trail from Num and climb up for several hours to reach Seduwa before getting to Tashi Gaon, the last human settlement. The next day we climb high and come down past mani stones, prayer flags, and superb views of Mt. Chamlang (7290m) and Kanchenjunga. As the trek continues, we climb three passes, the highest of which is Shipton La at 4,216 meters and reach Makalu Base Camp. From nearby the base camp you will see stunning views of Makalu's south face, peaks 6 and 7, Baruntse, Everest, and Lhotse.

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