Makalu Barun National Park is the 8th national park of Nepal which was established in 1992. The park is adjacent to Sagarmatha National Park covering an area of 1500km² (580 sq mi) in Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts. With more than 8000m, it is the world’s only protected area with higher elevation enclosing low tropical forests to snow-capped peaks. The 5th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu (8463m) lies here in this national park. While other known Himalayan peaks are Mt. Chamlang (7319m), Mt. Baruntse (7129m) and Mera peak (6654m) alluring the skyline of the park.

Makalu Barun National Park consists of mountain peaks, glacial lakes, glaciers, cliffs. rivers, hot water springs, forests, etc. While the major highlight of the park is Mt. Makalu which offers the major attractions to the visitors/trekkers. Here, you can trek to the popular destinations at Makalu base camp and the Mera peak (6654m). You will experience a virgin wilderness during Makalu trekking, with the assistance of guides and tour operators. Another interesting aspect is the community lifestyle where traditional resource management systems are worth observing.

FLORA & FAUNA OF MAKALU BARUN NATIONAL PARK

Makalu Barun National Park is also a ministry of forest and soil conservation. The park has 20 different ecosystems ranging from the Hill sal forests to the alpine zones consisting of snow, glacier, and rock. Whereas, tree species containing Sal, Oak, Maple. Chir pine, Sorbus, Rhododendron, etc. There are 284 species of vascular plants among which 8 endemics are recorded. The park also recognizes for rich floral diversity signified by 25 species of rhododendrons and 47 species of orchids.

The park has 88 mammal species including snow leopard, musk deer, the red panda. wild boar and Himalayan black bear. Among the 440 species of birds, the major ones are Impeyan pheasant. Slety-bellied Tesia, Spiny babbler, etc. The inhabitant of reptiles/amphibians is 59 species and 78 species of fish.

CLIMATES OF MAKALU BARUN NATIONAL PARK

Makalu Barun National Park has great variations in temperature and precipitation due to extreme differences in altitude. During monsoon, the precipitation is over 70% between June and September. While pre-monsoon rain falls in April and May and supports biomass production. So, the best time to visit Makalu Barun National Park are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November).