Makalu Region is famous for Mount Makalu 8,485 metres (27,838 ft). Makalu name is taken from the Sanskrit word “Maha” and “Kala” which is the name of Hindu supreme god. Maha means BIG and Kala means Black. This is the 5th highest peak in the world. This mountain range comes under Mahalangur Himalayas which is 19 KM south of Mount Everest (8848 Meters). Mount Makalu is considered one of the toughest 8000 meters peaks to climb. Even Sir Edmund Hillary failed twice to summit this peak. Makalu is on border between Nepal and China. This peak is in four-sided pyramid shape.
Makalu-Barun lies on the bottom of Makalu which is in Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal. This valley comes entirely inside the Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area. This valley has the wonderful view and the trekking is full of excitement. The Great Himalaya Trail from Kanchenjunga over to Everest leads cross-country and mountaineering to cross into the upper Barun Valley and then over the high passes of the gruelling Three Cols, which is almost of 6200 meters.
Small village, high waterfall, deep gorges, beautiful landscapes, glacier, flora-fauna etc. are the major attraction of this area. On the other hand, Barun Valley is a sanctuary for 25 species of rhododendron, 47 types of orchids, 56 rare plants and in wild animals Snow leopard, red panda, musk deer, and wild boar are specialities on this area.
Mt. Makalu, Mt. Chamlang (7,319 meters), Mt. Baruntse (7,129 meters), Mera Peak (6,654 meters) and other several peaks are major Himalayans attraction of this region.
Geographical isolation makes Makalu one of the remote areas in Nepal. The trekking trial is beaten path by the local people, trekkers and climbers. Simple homestay is available till Makalu Base Camp. But carrying tent is recommended for trekking in Makalu-Barun region.
Although this area is remote but rich in culture, tradition and full of flora-fauna. This area is surrounded by Gurung, Rai and Sherpa who are the main habitants in this region. Due to the remoteness, this area is poor and silence. But Makalu-Barun trekking is best trekking in the world.
It takes two days drive from Kathmandu to trek in Makalu region. Similarly, 45 minutes flight can be other short option to get into the Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area. Makalu region needs more than two weeks duration and trekkers can extend their trip on regarding their available time. Manaslu always those adventure lovers who want to be into the wild and mountains.
