Makalu
Mountain World's fifth-highest mountain in the Himalayas
Makalu ranks among the world’s highest peaks and sits on the Nepal-China border; it attracts technical climbers and high-altitude expeditions to a remote Himalayan massif.
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Makalu is a major Himalayan peak in eastern Nepal that rises to 8,485 metres, making it the world’s fifth-highest mountain. It is known for its steep faces and technical climbing routes.
The mountain attracts experienced mountaineers rather than general trekkers, and approaches are longer and more remote than some of the better-known Himalayan destinations. Climbs typically require advanced alpine skills and logistical support.
Makalu lies near the Nepal-China (Tibet) border and is part of the Mahalangur Himal section of the Himalaya, southeast of the Everest massif. Its remoteness and technical difficulty have kept ascent numbers lower than on some other eight-thousanders.
- Height and character: At 8,485 metres it is the world's fifth-highest mountain and is noted for steep, technical routes and remote access.
How to Get to Makalu #
Expedition routes begin from Kathmandu; logistics commonly use flights to Tumlingtar or long overland drives, then weeks of approach through Khumbu-style villages and high mountain passes before base camp is established.
Tips for Visiting Makalu #
- Climbing Makalu is a serious expedition for experienced mountaineers only; permits and local liaison are mandatory.
- Approaches typically start from Kathmandu with long road or helicopter transfers to the trailhead; consider seasons carefully for objective hazards.
Best Time to Visit Makalu #
Spring and autumn are the primary expedition windows for high Himalayan peaks such as Makalu.
Weather & Climate near Makalu #
Makalu's climate is classified as Ice Cap - Ice Cap climate with freezing summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -31°C to -7°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is freezing with highs of -18°C and lows of -31°C. Light rainfall, partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -18°C and lows of -30°C. Light rainfall, partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -16°C and lows of -28°C. The driest month with just 0 mm, partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -14°C and lows of -24°C. The driest month with just 0 mm, mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is freezing with highs of -11°C and lows of -20°C. The driest month with just 0 mm, mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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June
June is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -16°C. Almost no rain, mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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July
July is freezing with highs of -7°C and lows of -14°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (103 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is freezing with highs of -7°C and lows of -14°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is freezing with highs of -12°C and lows of -21°C. Light rainfall, partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -16°C and lows of -26°C. Almost no rain and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -16°C and lows of -29°C. Light rainfall and breezy conditions.
