Mt. Makalu, standing at 8,463 meters, is the world’s fifth-highest peak and is famously shaped like a perfect pyramid. Similar to Annapurna and Kangchenjunga, Makalu is a highly technical climb, demanding strong mountaineering skills, an experienced team, and reliable logistical support.
The expedition begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar, followed by a four-hour jeep ride to the trek’s starting point. The journey to Base Camp (BC) is an adventure in itself, with varied terrain, river crossings, and numerous ups and downs. While the trail was once remote with no lodges, many villages now offer accommodation, including a basic lodge at BC.
Once at BC, climbers can rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the ascent. Advanced Base Camp (ABC) is located at 5,700 meters, with four higher camps above it: Camp I on a glacial plateau at 6,150 meters, Camp II at 7,000 meters, Camp III at 7,300 meters, and Camp IV on the North Ridge at 7,850 meters. The final summit push to 8,463 meters takes several hours and is the ultimate test of endurance.
For those opting for the Full Expedition Service, an experienced Sherpa guide will accompany you every step of the way, assisting with safety and strategy to maximize your chance of reaching the summit and returning to Base Camp safely.
Trip Info
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Autumn/ Spring
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Fly/ Car/Jeep/ Tourist bus
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5/6 hours.
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Hotel/Tea houses/Camping
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8463m
Overview
Mount Makalu (8,485 m) was first successfully climbed in the spring of 1954 by an American team led by William Siri. This expedition, known as the California Himalayan Expedition to Makalu, included Sierra Club members such as Allen Steck and William E. Long. They attempted the southeast ridge but were forced to turn back at 7,100 m (23,300 ft) due to relentless storms.
During the same spring, a New Zealand team, which included Sir Edmund Hillary, also attempted the climb but was unable to progress very high because of injuries and illness. Later in the fall of 1954, a French reconnaissance expedition successfully made the first ascents of Makalu’s subsidiary summits. On May 15, 1955, Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy achieved the first ascent of Kangchungtse during a French expedition led by Jean Franco.
Trip Highlights
- less crowded than Everest.
- just as challenging as Everest.
- 3rd highest mountain in the world.
- The trek into Base Camp in remote uncommercialized region.
- incredible views of Everest, 8848m, Lhotse, 8516m, Makalu I, 8463m, Makalu II, 7660m, Peak 38- 7591m, Pumori, Lhotse Shar, 8410m, Barunste 7145m, Chamlan 7319m, Kanchanjunga, 8586m, Jannu Himal, 7710m.
