Mt. Makalu, standing at 8,463 meters, is the fifth highest mountain in the world and instantly recognizable by its distinctive pyramid shape. Unlike Everest, Makalu is considered more technical, requiring serious climbing experience, strong teamwork, and reliable logistical support—making it a true challenge for seasoned mountaineers.
The expedition begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a four-hour jeep ride to the trailhead. From there, the trek to Base Camp is adventurous and scenic, with steep climbs, deep descents, and multiple river crossings. Though the route was once remote and without facilities, many villages now offer basic lodges—there’s even a simple lodge at Base Camp.
Trip Info
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Hotel/ Tea hours/ camping
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Autumn - Spring
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8463m
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Car/Flight/ Jeep/ Tourist Bus
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5/6 hours
Overview
Mount Makalu (8485m) by an American team led by William Siri for the first time climbed in the spring of 1954. Mount Makalu Expedition was composed of Sierra Club members, including Allen Steck, William E. Long, and was called the California Himalayan Expedition to Makalu. They attempted the southeast ridge but were turned back at 7,100 m (23,300 ft) by a constant barrage of storms. A New Zealand team, including Sir Edmund Hillary, was also active in the spring but did not get very high due to injury and illness. In the fall of 1954, a French reconnaissance expedition made the first ascents of the subsidiary summits Kangchungtse May 15, 1955, by Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy during a French trip to Jean Franco.
Trip Highlights
- less crowded than Everest.
- just as challenging as Everest.
- 3rd highest mountain in the world.
- The trek into Base Camp in remote uncommercialized region.
- incredible views of Everest, 8848m, Lhotse, 8516m, Makalu I, 8463m, Makalu II, 7660m, Peak 38- 7591m, Pumori, Lhotse Shar, 8410m, Barunste 7145m, Chamlan 7319m, Kanchanjunga, 8586m, Jannu Himal, 7710m.
- Climbers face a 1,000m ice wall with gradients of 50-70 degrees, requiring advanced skills.
- The route passes through Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pheriche, and Gorak Shep to Base Camp.
- Visit Tengboche Monastery, Sherpa villages, and the Hillary Museum.
- Trek through Sagarmatha National Park, home to unique flora and fauna.
