How To Reach Makalu Barun National Park?

So, you want to visit the Makalu Barun National Park. Well, you're in for a treat. This Nepalese national park is a wonderland of pristine forests, rushing rivers, and snow-capped peaks. And getting there is half the fun!

Not sure how to make your way to this Himalayan paradise? Never fear! This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. From reaching the airport to finding a reputable guide, we'll have you on your way to Makalu Barun National Park in no time.

Overview of Makalu Barun National Park

Makalu Barun National Park is one of Nepal's most beautiful and unspoiled national parks. It's located in the Makalu-Barun Valley and is known for its rugged Himalayan landscape, pristine forests, and diverse wildlife.

The park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers and offers some of the most spectacular views of Mount Makalu and other Himalayan peaks. Getting to the park can be tricky, but with this guide, you'll have no trouble reaching it.

Similarly, some other majestic attractions of this National Park are Shivadhara, Arun River, and Barun River. Moreover, it is home to several endangered species like Red Panda, Danphe Pheasant, Kasturi Deer, and Yellow Throated Marten Langur.

If you are a wildlife lover, then these elements are going to give a golden touch to your trip.

How to Reach Makalu Barun National Park by Vehicle?

The journey will involve a bus ride from Kathmandu to the town of Khandbari, followed by an eight and a half hour's ride. You can either go by bus or arrange for a taxi at the bus station in Kathmandu. It'll cost you about NPR 3,000 to 5000 (USD 25-43) to reach Makalu Barun National Park by vehicle.

Similarly, you can drive to Lukla, the second option for the visitor. If you opt to go to Lukla, you must take a bus from Kathmandu to Tham Danda Buspa or Ramechhaap. You will have to trek to Lukla from there before beginning your hike to Makalu Barun National Park from there.

The first step is to hike to Tumlingtar from Lukla, which takes 12 days on average. So you will have to plan for a long vacation if you choose this route. The Maha Langur mountain range is always by your side showing the whitening silver linings of Mount Everest and Makalu. Throughout your hike, you will pass through two high-altitude passes; Salpa Bhanjyang (3350m) and Surke La Pass (3085m). Similarly, Salpa Pokhari at an altitude of 3460m is one of the attractions of this route. Overall, you will hike through Sagarmatha National Park and Makalu Barun National Park in the route.

How to Reach Makalu Barun National Park by Air?

Flights can be time-saving when it comes to traveling. If you're looking to reach Makalu Barun National Park by air, the nearest airport is in Tumlingtar, about 39.8 km from the park. From Tumlingtar, you can take a pre-booked taxi or public bus to the park. The cost of a flight from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar will depend on the carrier and season but typically range from $50 - USD 200.

Photo: Tumlingtar airport

Once you get to Tumlingtar, you'll have to arrange additional transport to reach your destination in Makalu Barun National Park. As this area is quite remote, expect to pay double or even triple what you would pay in the city for transport services (it might be worth contacting your hotel ahead of time if they offer transfers).

You can also fly to Lukla and then drift your hike to Makalu. If you choose to fly to Lukla for your trip, you can book the flight for around $150 to $200.

Your Hiking Insights To Makalu Barun National Park

• Kathmandu To Tumlingtar By Flight or Kathmandu to Khandbari By Bus

• Khandbari - Num

• Trek To Tashi Gaun

• 5 Hrs Hike To Khongma Dada

• Khongma Dada To Dobato - Yangle Kharka

• Trek To Yangle Kharla And Langmale Kharka

• Hike To Makalu base camp

• Makalu Base camp - Yangle kharka

• Yangle Kharla - Shivadhara

• Back To Khongma Dada

• 7 Hrs Trek To Seduwa and Num

• Back To Khandbari In Jeep

• Return To Kathmandu

 Accommodation Options Near the Makalu Barun National Park

Once you've reached Makalu Barun National Park, you'll need to find suitable accommodation. There are a few options to choose from, depending on your budget.

The first option is to stay in the National Park itself. You can find a basic campsite with amenities like clean drinking water and toilets in the park itself. This option offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the tranquillity and beauty of nature.

If you want something more luxurious, you can opt for one of the nearby hotels or guesthouses which offer comfortable accommodation at a slightly higher cost. The prices range from basic rooms with shared bathrooms to more luxurious rooms with private baths and other facilities.

And lastly, if you want a truly unique experience, there are plenty of homestays around Makalu Barun National Park that offer traditional Nepali hospitality and insight into local culture and cuisine. Prices here vary depending on the accommodation type but are generally more affordable than hotel prices.

No matter your budget, there is an accommodation option near Makalu Barun National Park that is perfect for you. So start planning your trip today!

Things to Do When Visiting Makalu Barun National Park

Visiting Makalu Barun National Park is the perfect way to explore Nepal's beauty and gain a new appreciation for nature. There are plenty of activities to do while there, so it's best to come prepared.

The park offers some of the most stunning views imaginable. You can take part in trekking or mountaineering or simply enjoy some birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The park is also home to lush forests and incredible mountains you can explore and admire.

What's more, Makalu Barun National Park has a variety of fascinating cultural experiences, including visits to local villages and nearby monasteries. The locals are incredibly welcoming, so don't be afraid to get involved in their conversations and learn about the local culture firsthand!

Finally, keep an eye out for some of the park's wild animals, such as snow leopards and red pandas. Although they may be hard to spot, they will surely add excitement to your visit!

Total Cost Required To Reach Makalu Barun National Park

So, how much do you need to budget for a Makalu Barun National Park trip? The total cost depends on your mode of transportation and the length of your stay. If you're flying from Kathmandu, it'll cost more than driving or taking the bus.

For those coming from within Nepal, the entrance fee for foreigners is NPR 3,000 for a week-long stay but can be extended up to 15 days. This is in addition to any fees for getting into the park itself, which needs to be paid separately depending on your activity or trekking route.

For international travelers coming from India, Nepal, and China (Tibet), there are different fees according to your nationality. Make sure you check before you travel, as various permits are required depending on where you're coming from and what activities you will be doing in the national park.

Overall, plan and ensure all fees are paid beforehand so you can avoid any problems once in Makalu Barun National Park.

Also Read: Insurance For Everest Base Camp Trek

Best Time to Visit Makalu Barun National Park

The best time to visit the park is from late September to early November and from late March to early May. These are when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear.

So, if you're set on visiting this stunning corner of the world, here's how to make it happen. First, fly into Kathmandu, then take a bus to the town of Arun. From there, it's a three-day hike to the park entrance. Once you're in, you can hike to the summit of Mt. Makalu (the fifth-highest mountain in the world) or explore the park's other trails. It sounds like a lot of work, but it'll be worth it when you finally set foot in this natural wonder.