Mera Peak Climbing

Best Time

The autumn season from September to November is the perfect time if you want to join the Mera Peak climbing program. At this time, the weather is mostly clear, in Kathmandu temperature is comfortable between 15-25 degrees Celsius while in the mountains at the maximum altitudes of our trek, it is cold from 0 degrees during the day and -6 degrees at night.  At night on Mera La, it can be minus 15. The views at this time are unbeatable.

The second best time for Mera Peak climbing is spring from March to May. The early March days can still be chilly as winter fades away slowly. There may be remnants of winter snow along the Mera La Pass. But as the days progress, the temperature gradually rises offering a warm and enjoyable environment perfect for long hikes. One best things about spring is the vibrant bloom of flowers, including the national rhododendron, which adds a lively touch to the trail.

We do not recommend summer/monsoon from June to August and winter from December to February for beginners. The slippery roads and landslides in summer and a massive pile of snow along the Pass and Base camps and high camps can make your first-time climbing journey to Mera Peak relatively difficult.

Elevation and distance

The outstanding Mera Peak towers at an altitude of 6461 m above sea level. It is situated approximately 75 km away from the cosmopolitan city of Kathmandu. Our trekking journey begins from Lukla town elevated at 2730 m and 135 km away from the capital city. A 30 to 35-minute internal flight is needed to cover this distance.

The highest elevation gain during our entire expedition is at High Camp situated at almost 5800 m altitude. It is also the topmost elevation where we will be spending the night.

Our thoughtfully designed 18-day program will let us walk only 7 to 8 km each day on average which is a perfectly attainable distance for a healthy individual.

Maximum/Minimum walk per day

Our 18-day Mera Peak climbing journey features only 12 days of hiking schedule during which we will cover 7 to 8 km each day. During these trekking days, we will dedicate around 5 to 7 hours to walking.

However, the duration and distance of our hikes will vary depending on the planned program for each day. One day it’s an easy job while some days can be very challenging. The easiest walk will be on day 8 when we advance from Thaknak to Khare within 2 to 3 hours.

On the other hand, the toughest challenge will be the day when we push for the summit which will be day 12. On this day, we will march from the High Camp to the summit and then climb down to reach Khare the same day. We will traverse 17 km this day needing us to walk for 9 hours. Undoubtedly, it is the longest and toughest walk of our entire journey.

Difficulty and Acclimatization

Mera Peak climbing is categorized as PD (Peu Difficile) which defines it as a slightly challenging yet non-technical expedition.  Therefore, climbing skills are not a prerequisite for reaching the summit of Mera Peak. In addition, the climbing expedition doesn’t involve any complex formalities.

A manageable moderate trek will take us to the summit making it an excellent option for those seeking to conquer their first mountain above 6,000 meters.

The trekking itinerary is designed to allow for gradual acclimatization, with a rest day scheduled at Khare. However, some days will require you to trek for 5 to 7 hours across rugged and slippery glacial terrain. As you journey, you will tackle the challenging passes of Zwatra La and Mera La, which are not to be taken lightly. During the final summit push, be ready for a 7-hour climb along the glacial trail.

Therefore, this climb requires very good physical condition, mental concentration, perseverance, and patience. The cold can be intense, the fatigue deeper and more pressing, the pace short and laborious because of the altitude.

Can a beginner join this trek?

Climbing Mera Peak is an excellent way to begin your mountain expedition in Nepal. This trekking/climbing adventure will provide you with a great opportunity to build your high-altitude trekking and mountaineering skills before attempting Ama Dablam, Himlung, or even Everest.

With adequate physical fitness, agility, and basic climbing abilities, you can successfully climb the summit. Additionally, our certified climbing guide will offer training and guidance on essential equipment in Khare, base camp, and advance camp. If necessary, he may also fix ropes for your easy ascension towards the summit.

If the usage of a preinstalled railing is necessary, he will inspect it first before letting you use it. He will also closely monitor your safety and progress throughout the journey.

However, you must be in reasonable physical shape to participate in the tour. And a prerequisite is the absence of medical contraindications for prolonged stay at high altitudes.

Preparation and training

To successfully conquer Mera Peak, it is essential to maintain a high level of physical fitness and undergo proper training, preferably in mountainous terrain. Additionally, engaging in endurance and muscle strength training for a minimum of four weeks before your expedition is crucial.

As you trek to Mera Peak, be prepared to hike for several hours with a backpack. We highly recommend dedicating at least thirty minutes each day to practice hiking with a light backpack.

Likewise, if you join a gym, then consider using a treadmill to enhance cardiovascular endurance and engage in workouts targeting key muscle groups like legs, back, and abdomen. Additionally, activities like swimming, cycling, jump rope, and stair climbing can also improve your overall physical fitness.

Alternate routes

There are two main approaches to the Mera peak: the first and the most optimal and convenient option is the one we have designed for you. The second is the long route that leaves from Lukla to Paiya,  Pangkongma, Ramailo Danda, Chhatra Khola, and meet Kothe, and from here on continue the same way.

This route allows you to enjoy more of the beauty of the Hinku Valley, but acclimatization begins later and you need to walk more.

Experienced trekkers and climbers can consider adding the Amphu Lapcha Pass or Mingbo La Pass trek to your Mera Peak climbing adventure. This route will lead you through the stunning Sagarmatha National Park, but keep in mind that an extra permit is required. This path is less developed for tourism and lacks shelters, so you have to be prepared to camp through most of the journey.

Altitude Sickness

Indeed, Mera Peak climbing does not require technical mountaineering skills, but it does require a certain level of climbing skill such as walking on crampons and usage of ice axes. However, these skills can be acquired during the training session on the trip.

So Mera Peak climbing is relatively easy however, it is important to note that Mera Peak’s altitude exceeds 6000 m- an altitude that should not be taken lightly. Such high altitude can affect you physically resulting in decreased appetite, breathing difficulties, and disturbed sleep patterns, which can lead to altitude sickness.

Therefore, we have taken every precaution to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. We have carefully planned the itinerary with minimal walking hours and have included a rest day at Khare as you approach the summit.

For the accomplishment of our goal, we advise you to increase your water intake, maintain a steady pace, eat sufficient meals, prioritize rest whenever possible, and keep your body warm throughout the climb.

If you experience symptoms such as headaches, restlessness, or nausea, you can take Diamox and inform our guide about your condition. Please remember that we have allocated an extra contingency day for summiting in case of such circumstances, so there is no need to rush towards the summit.

Transportation, Meals and Drink

Our extensive Mera Peak Climbing package has integrated a wide range of services to make your journey comfortable and convenient. This includes standard hotel accommodation, transportation, meals, drinks, and permits.

Our services begin with a private transfer from the airport to your hotel and end with a drop-off service to TIA by private transport. In between, all ground transportation needed during the trip and trek will also be in private transfer. During the Kathmandu and Bhaktapur trip, our tour guide will accompany you along with a private vehicle and driver.

Additionally, we have included the flight costs for your journey from Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu. In the event of a flight diversion to Ramechhap Airport, we will arrange private transport to take you there.

We offer you standard hotel accommodation on a sharing basis in Kathmandu with breakfast every morning. Because of the availability of numerous options, lunch and dinner will be on your own. During the trek and climbing period, we will serve you three meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) at the mountain lodge.

Upto Lukla, you can order from local Sherpa dishes to Western cuisine such as burgers, pasta, pizza, etc. However, with the progress in altitude, the options may be limited to Dal Vat Tarkari, momos, Thukpa, and bread.

At the base and High Camp, we provide tents to be shared between two group members during the camping period. Our crew members will also cook fresh and hygienic meals for you three times daily.

Communication, Gadgets charging, and Internet/wifi

You can easily communicate with your loved ones through the local mobile networks of NCELL or NTC. Their SIM card is readily available anywhere in Kathmandu and Lukla. Up to Lukla, you can also have access to free WIFI with a good connection and undoubtedly you can also charge your gadgets easily till Lukla.

However, once you walk past Lukla, the availability of services may become limited or even non-existent as you hike through the rugged terrain and high altitudes. Mobile networks may have restricted coverage, and WIFI connections can be intermittent.

When you are at the base and High Camps, it is essential to depend on batteries. Therefore, we recommend carrying a power bank and extra batteries. In case of any emergency, satellite phones will be provided for urgent communication.

Permits

Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit and Mera Peak climbing permit are essential for the Mera Peak climbing expedition. We will secure these permits for you as part of our service.

Mera Peak Vs. Island Peak

Both Mera Peak and Island Peak are two majestic peaks located in the Sagarmatha region of Nepal. Mera Peak at 6461 m and Island Peak at 6165 m have been the beginners’ choice for accumulating the necessary skills required to conquer the 7000 m peaks of Ama Dablam or Himlung and further attempt Everest.

To climb these peaks, you must possess the fundamental mountaineering skills, which can be acquired during the ascent. A good physical condition and mental perseverance are also needed for this expedition.

If you look at the height, you may think climbing Island Peak is an easier task than climbing Mera Peak. However, climbing Islan Peak is more demanding because of the arduous route. The path to the summit is characterized by steep, narrow, and icy sections making prior experience in hiking and mountaineering essential for a successful ascent.