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Makalu Barun National Park: From Tropical Forest to 8,485 m

Eastern Nepal

In this article
  1. Makalu Barun National Park at a glance
  2. Why go
  3. Trips and guides
  4. Plan your visit

Makalu Barun National Park, established in 1992, protects the valleys around Makalu (8,485 m), the world's fifth-highest mountain. Its range of altitude, from about 435 m in the Arun valley to Makalu's summit, is one of the greatest of any protected area, with forests, alpine meadows and glaciers.

Quick answer: Most visitors come on the Makalu Base Camp trek from Tumlingtar and Num, through the wild Barun valley. Facilities are simple; go with an experienced team.

Makalu Barun National Park at a glance

FactDetails
Established1992
Altitude rangeAbout 435 m to 8,485 m
Highest peakMakalu, 8,485 m
WildlifeRed panda, snow leopard, many birds
AccessTumlingtar, then trek

Why go

  • Wilderness and very few trekkers.
  • Huge range of forest types.
  • Views of Makalu's south face.

Trips and guides

Plan your visit

Makalu Barun is Nepal's wildest national park. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we hear most. Can’t find what you need? Our team in Kathmandu is happy to help.

Ask a question

In 1992.

8,485 m.

Red pandas, snow leopards and many birds.

Fly to Tumlingtar and trek.

No, it sees few visitors.