Makalu Barun National Park
Wild forests and glaciers from 435 m to the summit of Makalu, and a demanding trek to Makalu Base Camp.
Makalu Barun is one of the most biologically rich corners of the Himalaya. In a short distance the land rises from subtropical Arun valley forest to the ice of Makalu (8,485 m), and the park shelters red pandas, clouded leopards, dozens of rhododendron species and hundreds of kinds of birds.
The Makalu Base Camp trek starts near Num or Tashigaon, crosses the Shipton La and descends into the Barun valley, a glacier-carved trench under the giant walls of Makalu, Chamlang and Baruntse. It takes about two weeks and needs good preparation; lodges exist but are basic.
