Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world, at 8,485 m. It stands on the Nepal and Tibet border, about 20 km south-east of Everest, in the Makalu Barun region. It was first climbed in May 1955 by a French expedition.
Height and ranking
Makalu is 8,485 m high and ranks fifth in the world. Its shape is a steep four-sided pyramid, which is unusual among the great peaks and easy to recognise from far away. Its name is thought to come from a Sanskrit name for the god Shiva.
Where it is
Makalu lies in eastern Nepal, in Sankhuwasabha district, inside Makalu Barun National Park, and on the border with Tibet. It is far from the main trekking roads and sees many fewer visitors than Everest or Annapurna.
First ascent
A French expedition led by Jean Franco made the first ascent on 15 May 1955. Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy reached the summit first, and the rest of the team followed the next days. Most of the team reached the top, which was remarkable for the time.
Climbing Makalu
Makalu is known as a technical and demanding mountain. The standard route climbs from the Barun valley to the Makalu La, and then to the summit by a steep ridge. Strong winds and steep ice make it harder than its height suggests.
The trek to base camp
The Makalu Base Camp trek goes through rainforest, rhododendron woods and high meadows in the Barun valley to a base camp at about 4,870 m. It takes about three weeks, and the route is quiet. See the Makalu Base Camp guides and how hard the trek is.
Seeing Makalu from other treks
You can see Makalu from Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri in the Everest region, as a distant pyramid to the east. See where to see Everest.
Weather and season
Spring and autumn are the climbing and trekking seasons. Winds are strong on the upper mountain, and the monsoon is wet at lower altitude. Plan flexibility into the schedule.
Wildlife and nature
The Makalu Barun National Park protects a huge range of habitats, from subtropical forest to alpine meadows. It is known for birds, rhododendrons and rare plants, and the valley is one of the most biodiverse in Nepal.
Common questions
Is Makalu harder than Everest? Many climbers think so, because the route is steeper and more technical. Can I see it from Everest region? Yes, as a distant pyramid. Is the base camp trek hard? It is long and remote, with steep sections, so fitness matters.
Plan it
Compare Makalu with Everest and Kanchenjunga, or read the full list of 8,000 m peaks.
