Mt. Makalu, 8485 m, the fifth highest peak in the world lies at the border of Nepal and Tibet; the autonomous state of China. Residing in the Mahalangur range in the Sankhuwasabha district, Mt Makalu is only 19km away from Mt. Everest. Mt. Makalu is an isolated peak with a unique pyramid shape formed by sharp ridges from all four sides widely known for the same.
The first ascent to this extremely appealing peak was made on 15th May 1955 by Jean Couzy and Lionel Terray of the French Expedition. They climbed up via the saddle between Makalu Peak and Kang Chun Tse (the subsidiary peak of Makalu) from the Northeast Ridge, which is still the standard route for climbing Mt. Makalu. However, many climbers have ascended via the Southeast Ridge and South and West Pillar as well.
Among the 8000 peaks around the world, Mt. Makalu is considered to be one of the most difficult peaks which demands a lot of strength, experience, and mountaineering skills. The steep pitches and sharp ridges are highly exposed posing quite a huge amount of risks to climbers. Proper acclimatization and high experience are crucial during this expedition to Makalu. Due to the technicalities involved in climbing, four higher camps are set up above the base camp in the Makalu Expedition. Our guides and climbing Sherpas will set up properly fixed ropes throughout to help you climb up easily and safely.
The route to Mt. Makalu passes through the remote and isolated parts of Makalu Barun Valley with exceptional natural beauty. One can observe the undisturbed and rare mountain ecosystems in the Barun Valley. The exotic views of waterfalls falling into deep gorges, rocks rising behind the dense forests, and the blooming of colorful flowers and vegetation are comparable to none. Therefore, the overall trip is one package of adventure, peacefulness, and tranquility away from the regular chaos of life.
Preparation of Makalu Expedition
As mentioned above, Mt. Makalu is highly technical, in fact, one of the most difficult climbs in the world. So, if you are planning to head towards Makalu for Expedition, make sure you have enough experience of high altitude mountaineering and have climbed several 7000 m and lower 8000 m peaks. Also, train your body for physical strength and your mind for endurance and determination. 8K offers a 1:1 climber to Sherpa to provide you the best experience of climbing.
Best season for Makalu Expedition
The best seasons for the Makalu Expedition are Autumn and Spring that fall in the months of September to November and March to May when the weather is clear and more predictable. The trekking trail is amazingly attractive with blossoms of flowers, blooming of Rhododendron, mild heat, and cold temperatures. However, you may plan your trip for any time of the year. 8K Expeditions will craft the perfect travel plan for you in any season that favors you.