The Himalayan Pyramid – Mount Makalu

Mount Makalu

The fifth highest Mountain in the world, Mount Makalu is an isolated peak that lies 14 miles southeast of Mount Everest on the border between Nepal and China. The shape of Mount Makalu is like a four-sided pyramid of snow and ice. The reason behind this is that this mountain has risen from the ground. The name of the Mountain is derived from a Sanskrit word “Maha Kala”. It is named after the Hindu God Shiva. It consists of two subsidiary peaks. Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy first climbed Mount Makalu in 1955. They all were a part of a French expedition. Mount Makalu is considered to be one the most difficult mountains to climb because of its steep gradients and knife-edged ridges that are completely open. One of the most fascinating things about visiting the mountain is the beautiful Makalu-Barun Valley. A valley dotted with glaciers and white rivers situated at the base of Makalu. No one should miss such a beguiling sight.

The Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu Base Camp Trek encompasses the quiet trails, vibrant terraced farmland, rural cultures, rare wildlife, rhododendron forests and several peaks. It has the best of everything Nepal has to offer. It is an ideal trek for nature lovers. The journey is difficult but suitable for trekkers who relish a challenge. It is a trek with ample rewards in form of breathtaking sceneries.

Trekkers camping at Makalu Base Camp

Highlights of The Makalu Base Camp Trek

The Makalu trek starts in the warm, terraced farmland occupied by the Rai people, an ethnic group mostly in the hills of eastern Nepal. As the route mounts, you will pass through the rhododendron forests, cloud forests, some of the last areas of pristine forest and alpine meadows in Nepal. The forests are beautiful throughout the year; however, rhododendron forests are most impressive in the spring season when different colour flowers bloom. It looks colorful and lively.

Vibrant terraced farmland on the way to Makalu Base Camp

As you will pass Barun River Valley and move deeper into the mountains, you will see granite cliffs, glaciers and stunning waterfalls. At the higher elevations live the Sherpa people, an ethnically Tibetan group who mainly reside near Everest.

Once you have reached Makalu Base Camp you will see remarkable views of the Kangshung face of Everest, which is rare. Mountains including Lhotse, Chamlang and Kanchenjunga are also visible in the east. You will see some of the highest peaks after a difficult climb. As said in the famous quote

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”