Makalu Barun National Park

About
Makalu Barun National Park was formed as an eastern extension of Sagarmatha National Park in 1991. It covers an area of 1500 square km. In addition, the buffer zone of 830 square kilometres was expanded in 1999. This protected area's elevation ranges from 435 metres to more than 8000 metres. Makalu Barun National Park is the world's only protected region that has both tropical jungles and snow-capped mountains. This protected region also includes Mt Makalu, the world's fifth highest mountain (8,463 meters). Similarly, Mera Peak (6654 m), Baruntse (7,129 m), and Chamlang (7,319 m) are among the summits in the Makalu Region. The National Park is also part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape.
Locate Us
Nearby Attractions
Makalu Barun National Park is located in eastern Nepal. It covers Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts. In the north, this national park shares international borders with Tibet Autonomous Region's Qomolangma National Nature Preserve. Sagarmatha National Park is connected to the west. Similarly, the eastern section of the national park is bordered by Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and Saune Ridge to the south.
The Makalu Barun National Park is located in the eastern Himalayan climate area. As a result, the monsoon season begins in early June and continues until late September. This location has a monsoon climate, with more than 70% of rainfall falling between June and September. Premonsoon rain is common in April and May. Temperatures in this region vary substantially due to altitude differences. Lower elevations have a warm winter climate (October to February) and a hot summer (March to May). While it remains generally frigid on the higher elevations.
Tumlingtar airport, located in the Sankhuwasava district, offers daily flights from Kathmandu. Likewise, there are two flights per week from Biratnagar. Tumlingtar may also be reached via four-wheeler from Dharan and Biratnagar. Similarly, Inkhu Valley Makalu Barun may be accessible via Lukla/Phaplu. Regular flights to Lukla/Phaplu depart from Kathmandu and Manthali Airports.
Makalu Barun National Park encompasses a fascinating mix of near-tropical monsoon forests at 400m and alpine grasslands at 4000m elevation. Almost 25 species of rhododendron, 47 orchids, 19 bamboos, 15 varieties of oaks, 86 fodder trees, and 56 rare and endangered plants thrive in 27 different types of forests.
Likewise, the protected area provides home for a diverse range of wildlife. There are 43 reptile species, 315 butterfly species, and 16 amphibians. The park's ponds, rivers, and lakes are home to 78 different species of fish. In addition, 88 animal species and 433 bird species have been identified in this ecologically rich and diversified protected region. The park and its surroundings are also home to endangered species like snow leopard and red panda.
The buffer zone area has four rural municipalities with a population of almost 38977 persons. Rais, Sherpas, and Bhotes are among the most common ethnic groups. There are 94 buffer zone user communities, and the primary vocations include agriculture, livestock farming, trade, and labour. Tourism is also becoming an economic driver for the people who live in this area. The park and surrounding buffer zone sections are home to a number of hotels, lodges, local tea shops, and campsites operated by locals.
Trekking across the steep and off-the-beaten-path terrain of this protected region is an adventure in and of itself. Similarly, 6000-meter peaks like Mera Peak and others are well-known among mountaineers. They ascend these 6000-meter peaks before attempting to summit 8000-meter mountains. Visitors to Makalu Barun National Park can enjoy wildlife activities such as bird observation and snow leopard tracking. Also, take advantage of any opportunities to experience Sherpa culture and visit monasteries while you are there.