Makalu
The fifth-highest mountain in the world: an isolated four-sided pyramid 19 km south-east of Everest.
Makalu stands alone, not attached to any neighbouring giant, which is why its sharp granite pyramid is so recognisable from Everest, Kanchenjunga and even from the hills of Ilam and Dhankuta. It was first climbed by a French expedition in 1955.
It is considered one of the hardest of the 8,000 m peaks because of its steep ridges and exposed summit pyramid. Most visitors see it from Makalu Base Camp in the Barun valley or from viewpoints such as Kala Patthar.
