Mera Peak is claimed as the highest trekking peak in Nepal, towering at 6,654 meters (21,831 ft). The Mera Peak climbing is known for the non-technical climbing route, but it offers an ideal opportunity to test the endurance of the trekkers at high elevations.
The Mera Peak summit routes consist of snow-covered ridges and glacial fields, but climbers don’t need advanced mountaineering skills. Hence, it suits the fit trekkers with basic climbing knowledge.
Mera Peak was first ascent by J. O. M. Roberts and Sen Tenzing Sherpa in May 1953. It is located at latitude 86º 52′ 14″ and longitude 86º 52′ 14″ in the Mahalangur range of the Nepalese Himalayas.
Gallery of Mera Peak
| Trip Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Trip Duration | 18 Days |
| Activities | Tour, Trekking/Hiking & Climbing/Expedition |
| Accommodation during Trip | Hotels in Cities & Camping/Tented during Treks/Climbing |
| Trip Start | Kathmandu |
| Trip Ends | Kathmandu |
| Type of Trip | Suitable for Private Group, Family & Friends, Group Join Departure |
| Trip Grade | Moderate – Hard |
| Transportation | Car/Van/Hiace & Domestic Flights |
| Maximum High Altitude | 6654m at Mera Peak |
| Per Day Walking/Hiking | 4-8 Hours Average |
| Season | Spring (Mar-May) & Autumn (Sep-Nov) |
| Best Season for Climbing | April-May, September-November |
| Guide & Staff | Professional Climbing Guide and Sherpa Support |
| Physical Fitness Requirement | Good Physical Condition Required |
| Permit | Mera Peak Climbing Permit |
| Insurance Requirement | Travel & Rescue Insurance Required |
| Meals | Breakfast in Cities, Full Board during Trek/Climb |
| Emergency Service | Helicopter Rescue Available |
| Trekking Style | Camping Trek |
| Notable Highlights | Panoramic Views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga |
| Local Culture | Explore Sherpa Culture and Traditions |
| Weather Conditions | Cold Nights (Below Freezing) at Higher Altitudes |
Mera Peak Trekking Map
Detailed Itinerary of Mera Peak climbing
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)
After you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a warm welcome from our representative. Today, we settle into our surroundings and prepare for the adventure ahead. The evening includes a welcome dinner, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the local culture and cuisine.
Highlight: Welcome dinner and introduction to Nepali culture.
Day 02: Trip Preparation Day in Kathmandu
Today, we meet our climbing guide, check our equipment, and finalize preparations. We also have time to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu and get to know our fellow climbers.
Highlight: Trip briefing and gear check, exploring Kathmandu.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Paiya (2,800m/9,187ft)
We take a scenic flight to Lukla and begin trekking. The trail leads us through forested areas, across bridges, and past small villages as we make our way to Paiya.
Highlight: Scenic flight to Lukla and trekking through serene forest trails.
Day 04: Paiya to Panggom (2,846m/9,338ft)
Our trek continues through rhododendron and bamboo forests, with an ascent to the Kari La pass. We reach the quaint village of Panggom, where we observe local lifestyles.
Highlight: Crossing the Kari La pass and experiencing local village life.
Day 05: Panggom to Ningsow (2,863m/9,394ft)
We make our way to Ningsow, crossing the Panggom La pass and enjoying the peaceful trails through scenic landscapes. The route offers fantastic mountain views and small streams.
Highlight: Crossing Panggom La pass and trekking through picturesque valleys.
Day 06: Ningsow to Chhatra Khola (2,800m/9,187ft)
Today, we trek through Makalu Barun National Park, climbing and descending along the Pasang Lhamu trail. If we’re lucky, we may spot the elusive Red Panda in this lush area.
Highlight: Trekking through Makalu Barun National Park and potential wildlife sightings.
Day 07: Chhatra Khola to Kothe (3,691m/12,110ft)
Makalu Base Camp Trek: An 18-Day Himalayan Adventure
We head north along the Hinku Khola, crossing bridges and walking alongside flowing rivers. The day’s trek brings us closer to the majestic Mera Peak.
Highlight: Trekking along the Hinku Khola and immersing ourselves in serene mountain views.
Day 08: Kothe to Thaknak (4,358m/14,299ft)
We continue along the Hinku Khola valley, passing Lungsumgba Gompa where we can see a carving of Mera Peak and its route. We ascend to Thaknak, which is known for its grazing areas.
Highlight: Visit Lungsumgba Gompa and learn about Mera Peak’s route.
Day 09: Thaknak to Khare (5,045m/16,553ft)
We follow glacial paths to Khare, which serves as our base for acclimatization. Khare offers stunning views of Mera Peak’s northern face, a perfect spot to soak in the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Highlight: Trekking along Dig Glacier and enjoying views of the northern face of Mera Peak.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Khare
We take a day to acclimatize, practicing basic climbing skills under the guidance of our experienced guide. We focus on techniques like using crampons, ice axes, and ropes to prepare for the summit attempt.
Highlight: Acclimatization and pre-climb training at Khare.
Day 11: Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780m/18,964ft)
We ascend through a steep trail to reach Mera High Camp. This location offers some of the most amazing panoramic views of Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks.
Highlight: Trekking to High Camp and enjoying incredible mountain panoramas.
Day 12: Summit Mera Peak (6,654m/21,825ft) and Return to Khare
Our summit day begins in the early hours (around 2 AM) when the night is at its coldest. We gear up in the crisp, silent darkness, with only our headlamps lighting the way as we set off for the climb. The air is chilly, but as we ascend, our steady movement starts to warm us. We climb up the glacier and follow a gradual path towards Mera Peak’s summit ridge.
As we move, the first light of dawn begins to illuminate the surrounding mountains, painting them in hues of red and gold. This is one of the most awe-inspiring moments of the entire journey, watching the sun rise above the majestic peaks of the Himalayas—Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. The glow brings life to the snow-covered landscape and fills us with renewed energy for the final push.
The route itself is not technically difficult, but it requires determination and endurance as we make our way through the high-altitude terrain. The air becomes thinner, and every step feels heavier, but our focus and the guidance of our Sherpa team keep us moving forward.
As we approach the summit cone, we encounter a steeper section, and our guide may use fixed ropes to assist in navigating this part if conditions require it. The last few meters are a test of willpower, but we push through, motivated by the sight of the summit drawing near.
Finally, we reach the summit of Mera Peak at 6,654 meters. The feeling is indescribable—a combination of relief, exhilaration, and awe. Standing atop Mera Peak, we are surrounded by a panoramic view of the world's highest mountains, including Everest (8,848m), Makalu (8,463m), Lhotse (8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and even Kangchenjunga (8,586m) in the distance. This is the moment we’ve all worked so hard for, and we take time to capture the views, take photos, and soak in the incredible achievement.
After spending some time at the summit, we begin our descent. The descent is much quicker, and with the sun now fully up, we can see the path clearly as we make our way back to High Camp. We rest briefly at High Camp, hydrating and having some snacks, before continuing our descent to Khare.
Reaching Khare in the afternoon, we feel a mix of exhaustion and triumph. The sense of accomplishment is palpable as we relax, enjoy a hearty meal, and share our summit experience with our team and fellow climbers.
Highlight: Early morning start to summit Mera Peak, breathtaking views of five of the world's highest peaks at sunrise, and a challenging yet rewarding descent to Khare.
Day 13: Reserve Day for Contingency
This day is set aside in case of unfavorable weather during our summit attempt. If unused, it serves as a well-deserved rest day after the climb.
Highlight: Extra flexibility for summit success or time for relaxation.
Day 14: Khare to Kothe
We retrace our steps back to Kothe, reflecting on our summit success and enjoying the beautiful trail once again. The descent is easier, allowing us to relax and soak in the mountain ambiance.
Highlight: Celebrating our achievement and enjoying the descent.
Day 15: Kothe to Thuli Kharka (4,300m/14,108ft)
Today, we trek through a series of ascents and descents, crossing rivers and navigating lush forests before reaching Thuli Kharka.
Highlight: Trekking through beautiful forests and crossing numerous mountain streams.
Day 16: Thuli Kharka to Lukla via Zatrwa La Pass (4,600m/15,093ft)
We cross the Zatrwa La Pass, offering us a view of the Lukla Valley and surrounding peaks. From here, we make our final descent to Lukla, where we celebrate our journey in the Himalayas.
Highlight: Crossing the Zatrwa La Pass and enjoying views of the Lukla Valley and surrounding mountains.
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu
We take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Once we arrive, we have time to rest or explore the city. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate our journey.
Highlight: Scenic flight back to Kathmandu and farewell dinner.
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu
Our journey in Nepal comes to an end. We transfer to the airport for our flight home, carrying with us memories of an incredible adventure in the Himalayas.
Highlight: Departure with cherished memories of our Mera Peak adventure.
Royalty Fees
The cost of climbing the Mera Peak is mentioned in the table below. It is different for Nepalese climbers and foreign climbers and also varies according to the time of the year.
| Category | Royalty Fees |
|---|---|
| Nepalese (NRs) | Spring: 4000, Autumn: 2000, Winter/Summer: 1000 |
| Foreigners (USD) | Spring: 250, Autumn: 125, Winter/Summer: 70 |
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FAQs for Mera Peak Trek
1. What is the best time to climb Mera Peak?
The best time to climb Mera Peak is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is more stable, and visibility is clear.
2. How difficult is the Mera Peak climb?
Mera Peak is considered a challenging trek primarily due to its high altitude, but it is non-technical, making it suitable for those with basic climbing experience. Physical fitness and proper acclimatization are key.
3. Do I need prior mountaineering experience to climb Mera Peak?
While technical skills are not required, prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended. Basic mountaineering training, such as using crampons and ice axes, is helpful.
4. What permits are required for the Mera Peak climb?
Climbers need a Mera Peak Climbing Permit, Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, and the Local Area Permit for entry into the Khumbu region.
5. How long does the Mera Peak trek take?
The Mera Peak trek typically takes 18 to 20 days, including time for acclimatization and preparation.
6. What is the highest point we will reach during the Mera Peak trek?
The highest point is the summit of Mera Peak at 6,654 meters (21,825 feet).
7. Is Mera Peak a good choice for solo travelers?
Yes, Mera Peak is suitable for solo travelers, but it’s recommended to join a guided group for safety and logistical support, as the trek involves high-altitude challenges.
8. What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?
Accommodation includes tea houses or lodges in the lower sections of the trek, while camping is necessary at higher altitudes, such as High Camp.
9. How do I prepare physically for the Mera Peak trek?
A good fitness regimen should include cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and long hikes to build stamina. Endurance is crucial for high-altitude trekking.
10. What equipment will I need for climbing Mera Peak?
Essential equipment includes climbing boots, crampons, an ice axe, a harness, carabiners, a helmet, and warm clothing. Some equipment may be provided by your trekking company.
11. What are the risks of altitude sickness during the trek?
Altitude sickness is a risk due to the high altitude. The itinerary includes acclimatization days to minimize the risk, and it’s important to ascend slowly and stay hydrated.
12. Is travel insurance necessary for the Mera Peak trek?
Yes, travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation is required to ensure safety during the trek.
13. How much weight can porters carry?
Porters usually carry a maximum of 15-20 kg per person. It’s important to pack only what is necessary and leave non-essentials behind.
14. Are there any age restrictions for climbing Mera Peak?
Generally, climbers must be at least 16 years old. There’s no strict upper age limit, but participants should be in excellent health and fitness.
15. How cold does it get during the Mera Peak climb?
Temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night. At High Camp, temperatures may drop below -15°C (5°F), so it is essential to have proper gear for warmth.
16. Is there a chance of summiting delays due to weather?
Yes, weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. A contingency day is usually included in the itinerary to accommodate any delays due to bad weather.
17. What kind of meals will be provided during the trek?
Meals during the trek include a combination of Nepali, Tibetan, and basic Western dishes. At high altitudes, simple, high-calorie meals are provided to sustain energy levels.
18. What is the daily walking duration during the trek?
On average, we walk 4-8 hours per day, depending on the itinerary and altitude. Summit day can be longer, up to 10-12 hours.
19. Can I charge my electronics during the trek?
Charging facilities are available in tea houses in the lower parts of the trek for a small fee. At higher altitudes, it is advisable to bring a power bank.
20. Will we have communication access during the trek?
Communication is limited. Cell phone networks are available in some areas, but it is unreliable at higher altitudes. Satellite phones are sometimes carried by guides for emergencies.
