zoom_in Click to enlarge

Makalu

▲ ▼

description Makalu Overview

Makalu stands on the border between Nepal and China's Tibet Autonomous Region in the Mahalangur Himal, reaching 8,485 meters (27,838 feet). Its four-sided pyramidal form and sharply defined ridges give it a recognizable profile. The summit terrain combines great altitude with exposed rock and snow, making an ascent a technical undertaking rather than simply a long climb through thin air. A French expedition first reached the summit in 1955.

The mountain's steep upper sections remain central to its mountaineering identity, since climbers must manage exposure and difficult movement while already affected by altitude. Its relatively isolated setting also gives it a different character from peaks approached through busier trekking corridors. Makalu suits readers interested in the relationship between mountain shape and climbing difficulty, as well as experienced mountaineers studying major Himalayan objectives.

help Makalu FAQ

Where does Makalu rank among the highest mountains on Earth?

Makalu is the fifth-highest mountain in the world, standing at an elevation of 8,485 meters (27,838 feet). It is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas on the border between Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

What makes Makalu structurally distinct from other Himalayan peaks?

Makalu is highly recognized for its striking structural shape, particularly its four-sided, steep pyramid peak. It is also noted for its massive secondary peak, Makalu II, which sits on the same massif.

When was the first successful ascent of Makalu achieved?

The first successful summit of Makalu was achieved on May 15, 1955, by a French expedition led by Jean Franco. The team successfully put multiple climbers on the summit over the course of several days.

Which famous neighboring mountain is located near Makalu?

Makalu is geographically located very close to Mount Everest, sharing the same general Mahalangur Himalayan range. The two massive peaks are separated by the deep, glacial Makalu-Barun Valley.

swap_horiz

Looking for Makalu alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward