Makalu Barun National Park

Makalu Barun National Park is a protected area in eastern Nepal encompassing the world's greatest altitudinal variation within a single park – from 435 m in the Arun River valley to 8,463 m at the summit of Makalu, the world's fifth-highest mountain. Established in 1992 and forming the core of the Makalu Barun Conservation Area, it is widely regarded as one of the most biodiverse regions in Nepal, with over 3,000 species of flowering plants, 440 bird species, and 75 mammal species spanning tropical forests through alpine zones.

The park is accessed via remote trekking routes and offers a wilderness experience far less crowded than the Khumbu. The best trekking seasons are March–May and September–November. The monsoon (June–September) is intense and not recommended. The park office is in Khandbari.

By Plane

Tumlingtar Airport (TMI) is the main access airstrip, with flights from Kathmandu (45 minutes). From Tumlingtar, it is a 1–2 day walk to the park boundary at Num (25 km). Alternatively, a taxi can reach Khandbari (30 km, 1.5 hours). Helicopter charters are available.

By Car / Road

A rough road connects Khandbari and Tumlingtar to Biratnagar via Hile. The road is unpaved for long sections and prone to landslides in monsoon. From Khandbari, the trail to the park begins at Num village.

On foot. The main trekking routes follow the Arun and Barun River valleys. The park has no internal roads.

• Mount Makalu (8,463 m) – The fifth-highest peak, a massive pyramid visible from high points along the trek.

• Barun Valley – A pristine glacial valley with waterfalls, alpine meadows, and abundant wildlife.

• Arun River Gorge – One of the deepest river gorges in the world, cutting between the Himalayas.

• Makalu Base Camp (5,000 m) – Remote base camp at the foot of Makalu's south-west face.

• Sherpani Col and West Col – High passes on the Makalu Circuit offering spectacular views.

• Rhododendron Forests – Dense stands of giant rhododendrons bloom in April–May.

• Waterfalls – The Barun Valley has numerous dramatic waterfalls fed by glacial melt.

• Makalu Base Camp Trek – A challenging 20–23 day trek from Num to Makalu Base Camp and over Sherpani Col.

• Makalu Circuit – A demanding 25+ day circuit crossing high passes between Makalu and Everest.

• Wildlife viewing – Spot Himalayan tahr, musk deer, red pandas, snow leopards, and over 440 bird species.

• Botanical exploration – Biodiversity from subtropical to alpine zones.

Trekkers' lodges serve dal bhat, noodles, and basic meals along the initial sections. Beyond Num, the trail enters a restricted area where independent camping with a guide is required. Bring high-energy snacks from Kathmandu.

Tea and purified water are available at lodges. At higher altitudes, meltwater should be boiled and purified. Bottled water is not available beyond Khandbari.

• Budget: Basic lodges in Num, Khandbari, and Sedua (Rs 300–800).
• Mid-range: Camping (mandatory with registered guide beyond Num).
• Permits: The park requires a Makalu Barun National Park entry permit (Rs 3,000 for foreigners) and a TIMS card.

Trekking supplies are limited in Khandbari and Num. Stock up in Kathmandu or Biratnagar before heading to the park.

• Khandbari (25 km south of park boundary) – Park headquarters and supply point.
• Num (entry village) – Trailhead for Makalu Base Camp.
• Tumlingtar (50 km south) – Mountain airstrip and exit point.
• Chainpur (40 km west) – Historic town in the Arun valley.
• Hile (100 km south) – Scenic ridge town on the way to the Terai.