Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area of Nepal

This is the only park surrounded by a conservation area. The park was established in 2049 B.S. (1992 A.D.) in the heart of the eastern Himalayan as the first national park and conservation area to include and adjacent inhabited conservation area as a buffer.

Its area is spread over the altitude of about 435 meters to the summit of Mt. Makalu (8463 m.). The total area of this park is 1500 sq. km. this park is spread by Sankhuwasahbaha and Solukhumbu districts of the Sagarmatha Zone.

River Arun in the Sagarmatha National Park in the west, Chomolangma Natural Reserve of china in the north, and Saune Danda (Hills) in the south lie in this region. Barun valley treasures some of the last remaining pristine forest and alpine meadows of Nepal.

This park is 435 meters above sea level, This also called the park of rare vegetation and animals. Various kinds of rhododendron flowers are found here.

Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area of Nepal

Nepal’s Makalu-Barun National Park, and the buffer zone is the only protected area on earth with an elevation gain of 8,000m from the tropical forests along the Arun river to the icy mountain peaks.

Makalu-Barun National Park (MBNP) was established on November 18, 1991, and the Conservation Area became a Protection Zone in 1999 under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (NPWCA) 2029 BS (1973 ).

Since its creation, the park has aimed to maintain the natural diversity of habitats, protect the soil and vegetation and wildlife as well water resources, conserve all native flora and fauna, reduce the ecological impact of practices of land use and at the same time improve people’s lives.

The national park has an area of ​​2330 km2 (National Park-1,500 km2 and BZ-830 km2). MBNP is being managed by park staff maintaining a people-oriented approach under the Himalayan National Park Regulations 2036 BS (1979).

Legal access to park resources and the buffer zone for subsistence life is provided to local people living within the park and its buffer zone boundary, according to the regulation of national park.

It is also realized that this arrangement alone is not sufficient for people’s participation in the conservation and active management of biodiversity and the ecological integrity of the park area.

In addition, the needs of local people living in the park’s buffer zone should also consider meeting the goals. It is the only national park in the country that is managed without the Nepal Army for its protection.

MBNP is located in the eastern Himalayan region of Nepal between 86º 46 ’12’ ‘to 87º 26′ 24 ” East and 27º 33 ’00’ ‘to 27º 57′ 00 ” North and the buffer zone lies in the middle, 86º 46 ’48’ ‘to 87º 21′ 36 ” East and 27º 25 ’48’ ‘to 27º 40’ 48 ” North.

This National Park comprises a total of 12 village development committees (VDCs) in the Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts, where 2 VDCs are from Solukhumbu and 10 VDCs from Sankhuwasabha. The park headquarters is in Seduwa, Makalu VDC-6.

It is boarded by the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China in the north, the Sagarmatha National Park in the west, the Arun River in the Sankhuwasabha district in the south and the Pawakhola VDC in the Sankhuwasabha district in the east.

The park occupies areas of two districts, namely Solukhumbu 349.5 square kilometers (15%) and Sankuwasabha 1980.5 square kilometers (85%) with a total area of ​​2330 square kilometers.

The park encompasses the hydrographic basins of the Saldima, Barun, Isuwa, Apsuwa, Sankhuwa, Sisuwa, Hangu and Inkhu river systems that form the main river of the Saptakoshi River system which is finally known as Koshi before joining the Ganges River in the India.

The Makalu (8463m) is the highest point and Sankhuwa-dovan is the lowest point (457m.) in the park and the buffer zone.

The buffer zone of Makalu-Barun National Park was declared on February 8, 1999 (2055 Magh 25 BS). It covers 10 VDCs in Sankuwasabha, and 2 VDCs in Solukhumbu. In the buffer zone, People are mainly from Rai communities (64%) followed by Sinsaba Bhote (18%), Sherpa (8%) and Tamang, Gurung, Newar, Chhetri, Brahmin and other castes (10%).

In the park, 45% of the area is covered with rocks, ice and snow, while the forest, together with the land of bushes and grasses, occupies almost half of the area.

The land use pattern of the park’s buffer zone shows that more than half of the area is covered by forest (58%), agricultural land is occupied by 16%, shrub and pasture land occupy in total more than 4/5 and only 6% of the buffer zone areas are covered in rock, ice and snow.

Most of its parks are remote and covered with snow. The park contains two small settlements and seasonal (mobile) holding in high pastures. It has steep land topography.

This park is the storehouse of various types of living creatures, rare herbs, and useful vegetation. Various kinds of religiously important juniper, perfumed shrubs, and delicate wildflowers are found here.

Gobresalla, Thingresala, Bhojpatra, rhododendron, Arkkhauli, Phirphire, Purbeli Champa are found in the coniferous forests of the hilly belt.

The area of Makalu-Barun conservation is 830 sq. Km. Various kinds of fo wildflowers and plants are found here. There are hundreds of species of Sungabha flowers, 48 species of wild rose, and 25 species of flowering vegetation out of a total of 30 species found in Nepal.

Birds and animals of different species are found here. This is the habitat of some endangered wild animals like red panda, musk deer, ghoral, Himali thar, polar leopard, etc. it is estimated that about 400 species of birds including 16 scarce species are also found here.

Communities of Rai, Sherpa, and Shingsawa (Bhotia) farmers are living around the park.

Vegetation

The varied topography (457 masl to 8463 masl) and the climatic conditions reflect the wide spectrum of biodiversity and vegetation of the Makalu-Barun National Park.

The bioclimatic zones are Nival, which is above 5000m, Upper Alpine 4501m at 5000m, Lower Alpine 4001m at 4500m, Upper Subalpine 3501m at 4000m, Upper Temperate 2501m at 3000m, Temperate Lower 2001m at 2500m, Upper Subtropical 1501m at 2000m, Lower Subtropical 1001m at 1500m which is located in Midhills and at 501m at 1000m it is Upper Tropical.

Various types of vegetation are found, which are the following: i. Glaciers, snow, rock, ii. Alpine meadows with Graminae and Cyperaceae, iii. Mesohygrophytic shrubland of rhododendron, iv. Mesohygrophile rhododendrons (R. antópogeno, R. nivale), v. Shrublands with rhododendrons, vi. Upper subalpine birch birch forest, vii. Upper subalpine birch (Betula utilis) with rhododendron and spruce, viii. Upper subalpine Thickets of rhododendron, ix. Upper alpine rhododendron-juniper scrubland, x. Lower subalpine fir forest (Abies spectabilis) and xi. Lower subalpine abies spectabilis forest.

Biodiversity

More than 3,000 species of flowering plants are found in MBNP, which includes about 56 species that are rare and endangered. 199 species of flowering plants in the park have been recorded.

Seven endemic flowering plant species have been recorded in the area including Desideria nepalensis, Pedicularis pseudoregeliana, Carex himalaica, Kobresia gandakiensis, Kobresia, fissiglumis, Ranunculus himalaicus and Ranunculus makaulensis. Panchaunle (Dactylorhiza hatagirea), Kutki (Neo-picrorhiza scrophulariiflolia), government protected plant species are also found in the MBNP.

Similarly, more than 88 species of mammals, including the threatened snow leopard (Uncia uncia), musk deer (Muschus chrysogaster), red panda (Ailurus fulgens) and the Assamese monkey (Macaca assamensis), etc. are inhabited in this park. There are 43 species of reptiles, 315 species of butterflies, and 16 species of amphibians.

The ponds, rivers and lakes within the park inhabit 78 species of fish. In addition, 88 mammal species and 433 bird species have been recorded in this naturally rich and diverse protected area. The park and its surroundings also house endangered species such as the snow leopard and the red panda.

Tourism

This area is very attractive for tourism, trekking and mountaineering because it has a beautiful landscape, beautiful lakes, a rich flora and fauna and Mount Makalu, Baruntse and Sherpin Col as well.

Also, this is a point on the trekking route to Makalu base camp. However, the condition of the trail is poor and tea shops do not have adequate facilities for accommodation and bathing.

Climate

The weather of the National park varies due to the large difference in altitudes throughout the park. The lower parts of the National Park has a more moderate climate, while the higher parts have a cool climate.

Makalu Barun National Park falls in the climatic region of the eastern Himalayas. Therefore, the monsoon begins early (June) and lasts until the end of September. The climate in this area is generally described as monsoonal, as over 70% of rainfall occurs from June to September.

Pre-monsoon rain is common during April and May. Pre-monsoon rain is common during the months of April and May, an important factor in the production of biomes.

There are no reliable records of climate data representing the entire area. Large variations in temperature and precipitation can be expected due to the extreme difference in altitude, slope and appearance within the area.

The temperatures of this region vary significantly due to the difference in altitude. The climate at the lowest elevation is moderate during the winter (October to February) and warm during the summer (March to May). While it remains mostly cold at higher elevations. The best time to visit Makalu Barun is in spring and autumn.

Wetland

Large amounts of water are stored in snow and glacial ice at the upper elevations of the Makalu Barun area. Continuously released, the water is poured south, forming seven major kholas (tributaries of the river) that flow into the Arun and Dudh Koshi rivers which provide 300 kilometers of riparian habitat.

The Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts have 579 glacial lakes covering an area of ​​3.31 and 13.03 square km respectively. Among those lakes, 121 glacial lakes are located within the Makalu- Barun National Park.

Groups of alpine and subalpine lakes exist in the upper elevations of the MBNP area of ​​the Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu districts. Some of the main high-altitude wetlands within Makalu- Barun National Park are Bahula Pokhari, Yekle Pokhari, Tin Pokhari, Jhale Pokhari, Panch Pokhari (largest), Dudh Pokhari, Tama Pokhari, Panch Pokhari (smallest), Thulo Pokhari and Sano Pokhari.

The Barun Pokhari series that includes Barun Pokhari at the base of Mount Makalu, Lower Barun, Rampuchho, and an unnamed lake near base camp, an unnamed Pokhari is also found above Ama Bhujung. Thulo Pokhari series, which includes Thulo Pokhari, Sano Pokhari, Bhale Pokhari, and an unnamed seasonal Pokhari near Thulo Pokhari.

Areas of interest

The rugged landscape of the Himalayas is the main attraction of this park. Mount Makalu (8463 m) is the main landmark which is the fifth highest peak in the world.

For hikers, Makalu Base Camp and Mera Peak are popular places to visit. Along the way you can see many glaciers, glacial lakes, rivers, hot springs, cliffs, gorges and snowy peaks.

All of this makes this national park a sight to behold and an amazing experience. Due to the rugged terrain, hiking in Makalu Barun also carries certain risks. Therefore, hikers should always be aware of snow, slippery rocks, and night frosts, as well as dangerous rock falls.

Arun Valley which is the deepest valley in the world and Barun Valley is located in the Makalu region. These valleys are home to varieties of flora and fauna. Also, Makalu Base Camp and Mera Peak Base Camp are the best trekking destination for hikers looking for an “off the beaten track” trekking experience.

The sacred lake for Hindus called Salpa Pokhari is a must see. Similarly, lakes like Yekle Pokhari, Teen Pokhari, Barun Pokhari, Dudh Pokhari, Panch Pokhari, etc. They are the high altitude lakes that you will find while hiking in this protected area.

Achievements

The main achievements in Makalu Barun National Park are as follows.

Carrying out a detailed survey and investigation of the Park that includes aspects of environmental relations, temporal dynamics and spatial diversity of habitats, communities and species along the mountain transects; Specific research initiatives include the following:

• Biodiversity conservation, a community buffer zone forest and a small business, carried out in 2000-2001 (DNPWC 2001).
• Conservation and rituals of biodiversity, carried out in 2001-2002 (DNPWC 2002)
• Successful management and protection of the Park without involving the Nepal Army
• Successful cultivation and commercialization of non-timber forest products
• Declaration of the park as a conservation area and buffer zone in 1999
• Incorporation and strengthening of traditional resource management systems, such as grazing led by community control and forest stewardship, and introduction of low-level technologies where appropriate
• The establishment of Nepal’s first grazing user group in Lamaden in 1996 laid the groundwork for the proposed establishment of up to a dozen grazing user groups in the Park.
• Construction and installation of emergency safety shelters, trail markers, and dangerous trail and bridge improvements to minimize accidents and deaths among tourists, support staff, and local users.
• Successful anti-pollution measures: the “Pack and Pack” policy has been effective in reducing litter along the park’s trekking routes.

Activities

Makalu Barun’s rugged landscape lends itself as a trekking destination. Depending on the experience of the hikers, you can take a simple camping trip, or take a harder hike and try to climb the Mera peak (6654 m). Trekking on the rugged and off the beaten path of this protected area is an exploration in itself.

Mountaineers climb these 6,000m peaks before trying to scale 8,000m mountains. Wildlife activities like birdwatching and snow leopard tracking are also exciting things visitors can do in Makalu Barun National Park.

Also feel free to experience Sherpa culture and visit monasteries whenever you have a chance while you are there.

Bird watching

Makalu Barun National Park offers abundant birdwatching opportunities. Mountain eagles, vultures, and hawks can be easily seen floating above the valleys.

More experienced bird watchers may be on the lookout for exotic birds like the pink-ringed parakeet. It is suggested you to bring your own binoculars or purchase one at the entrance to the national park for an easier birding experience.

Tip: It is highly recommended not to feed the birds.

Trekking

If adventure appeals to you, you can go on an expedition. Makalu Barun National Park trekking starts from Kathmandu and ends at Yangle Kharka. The walk offers magnificent views of the landscape of the region. It is very important that you choose the correct footwear for your walk. We suggest that you use a cane for your convenience.

Tip: Ideally, take your waste and bring it back with you for disposal at the appropriate disposal facility.

Road Safety

Most of the trails are quite rocky and become slippery after rain or night frost. Until April or May, winter snows generally remain on the passes and on the high-altitude trails that approach Shershong.

A particular dangerous area is the trail between Mumbuk and Yangle Kharka, an unstable and dangerous rockfall area. Hikers in this area should move quickly and observe the falling rocks. Mountain sickness can also be a serious risk if elevation gains are rapid without proper acclimatization.

Go safari

Observing wild animals up close in their natural habitat is a fantastic experience. The range of animals in Makalu Barun National Park is not only extensive but also quite varied.

From snow leopards to red pandas, the site is home to more than 600 species of wildlife. Listen to the guide: Safety precautions must be taken seriously and strictly followed.

Tip: Out of respect for animals, avoid playing music on the speakers.

Conservation Volunteer Program

Makalu Barun National Park encourages travelers interested in the environment and nature to participate in various conservation and preservation programs that it organizes frequently.

We recommend that you have an open mind about what you hope to accomplish in your time in the volunteer program. Since it is a huge commitment, it is extremely important that volunteers learn about the community they will be working in before they can make a valuable contribution.

Tip: Integrate into the local lifestyle. Be respectful and aware of your living standards.

Photography

You can bring your camera gear as Nepal offers several amazing photo opportunities. Capture the rhododendrons in full bloom in the spring season or take beautiful panoramic photos along the way on your hike.

Invest in a good camera if you want to photograph animals during the wildlife safari. Bring a flash for night safari photography. You can also bring a tripod as well. Make sure you have enough storage cards.

Tip: Seek permission from locals before clicking on them.

Access

Tumlingtar Airport which is located in the Sankhuwasava district offers daily flights from Kathmandu. There are also two flights a week from Biratnagar. Tumlingtar can also be reached on four wheels from Dharan and Biratnagar. Similarly, Inkhu Makalu Barun Valley can be reached from Lukla / Phaplu.

There are regular flights to Lukla / Phaplu from Kathmandu and Manthali Airport. From either city, it takes six to seven hours to reach Hile, from where it is another three days of walking. The park’s royal headquarters in Seduwa is an additional day from Tumlingtar.

Best time to visit

An ideal time to take a trip to Nepal is between the months of March and May, since the spring season has a warm climate and you can see rhododendrons in full bloom.

That said, the best time for the Makalu Barun National Park tour is in the spring and fall. Camping is nearly impossible in harsh winters, and monsoon rains between June and September in Makalu Barun National Park which may bring landslides and dark mountain views.

Facilities

The Makalu-Barun National Park headquarters and buffer zone is located in Murmidanda, Seduwa. Makalu Barun is located remotely and therefore facilities are limited.

Regardless of what food supplies you may need, you can find them at Tumlingtar, after Tumlingtar, don’t count on finding supplies along the way, so be sure to take enough with you. To protect and preserve the environment, six camps have been designated throughout the park.

These sites are: Khongma (3500m), Dobato (3500m), Yangle (3570m), Neghe (3700m), Langmale (4100m) and Shersong (4600m). Don’t forget to bring a well-equipped first aid child, as medical facilities are practically nil.