MAKALU
BASE CAMP
Grade: Moderate-Challenging
Duration: 26 days
(21 days tented trek, 5 days Kathmandu)
The trek to this unspotted
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.
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 8463 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 2330 square kilometers that make up the 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 semitropical 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 masheer, 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 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 4216 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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