Makalu
High altitude expedition

Makalu

Open for Climbing#5 · 5th highest in worldMKLU · Mahalangur Himal · Sankhuwasabha · Koshi Province
Elevation8,485 m27,838 ft
Typical duration45-60 days
Climbing statusOpen for Climbing
Permit issued byDoT
Permit range$1,500-$6,000रू 12,000–50,000
To base camp105.0 km
Flight to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu, then trek
Sankhuwasabha

Location

27.8897°, 87.0889°

Peak overview

Makalu (8,485 m), the world's fifth-highest peak, is an isolated pyramid of rock and ice in the eastern Nepal Himalaya near Sagarmatha National Park. Its dramatic four-sided pyramid shape and high technical difficulty place it among the hardest 8000m peaks.

Data sources

Peak reference data (elevation, first ascent, and registry codes) is compiled from the Himalayan Database Peak List via Nepal Himal Peak Profile, with permit fee context from the Nepal Mountaineering Association and the Department of Tourism where shown. Figures are indicative — confirm with the issuing authority before you travel. Full credits: Attribution.

Department of Tourism expedition permit

Expedition peaks require a DoT climbing permit; fees depend on elevation and season. 8000 m peaks typically require a liaison officer and full expedition logistics.

  • Expedition permit application through a registered expedition operator
  • Climbing royalty paid per official DoT fee schedule
  • Rescue and medical insurance meeting DoT minimums
  • Liaison officer arrangement where required (typically 8000 m peaks)
  • Restricted-area or conservation permits for the approach trek if applicable
Nepal Department of Tourism

Climbing facts

Mountain range
Mahalangur Himal
District / region
Sankhuwasabha · Koshi Province
Entry point
Flight to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu, then trek
First ascent
1955 · Jean Couzy and Lionel Terray (French Expedition)

Plan around this peak

Makalu (8,485m) · Nepal Peak Climbing