Mera Peak (6,476m) Climbing – 20 Days

After you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will go through customs and immigration formalities. Our representative will greet and welcome you with a garland or khada. It’s a traditional gesture that symbolizes respect and blessings. He will also transfer you to a 4-star hotel in Thamel by private vehicle. As the vehicle enters the Thamel area, you’ll see bright shops. Cafes, restaurants, money-exchange counters, gear rental shops, and trekking agencies all can be found within a short walk.

Once you get refreshed, you will attend a briefing about the itinerary and meet your crew members and other trekkers joining the trip. In your free time, you can also purchase Ncell or Namaste SIM cards nearby in Chhaya Center mall and authorized mini-marts and shops in Thamel, for backup internet access during the trek. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine, then rest overnight at the hotel.

Note: The airport continues to improve its facilities so that flights may be limited from time to time. But most of the time, the process is generally smooth and organized.

In the morning, we will finish packing and prepare for the trip. If any last-minute shopping is needed, we will have time for that. After lunch in Kathmandu, we start our 5-hour (132km) drive to Ramechhap, following the route through Bhaktapur, Dhulikhel, and Khurkot along the Sun Koshi River corridor. The roads are partly paved and partly winding off-road sections that are dusty during the dry season.

Along the way, we pass through countryside scenery, terraced fields, and landmarks such as Namobuddha Monastery Hill and the Sun Koshi Bridge. After we reach Khurkot, mobile coverage becomes somewhat limited. On arrival, we stay overnight at Freedom Resort or a similar standard lodge near the airport, with all meals provided.

We will drive to the Manthali Airport early in the morning and catch a flight from Ramechhap to Lukla (2,860m). The flight may take 20 to 25 minutes, but it is really scenic. You can see the snowcapped peaks before landing at Tenzing–Hillary Airport, known for its short 527m runway. Keep in mind that sometimes the flight may be delayed due to weather conditions such as fog. Once in Lukla, we will distribute the backpacks and have breakfast before starting our Mera Peak trek.

From Lukla, we will descend through forested areas and local villages, including Surke and Pakhapani. Along the way, you will see scattered traditional stone houses, mani walls, and terraced farmlands. The trail to Puiyan (Paiya) is easy but can be demanding due to uneven steps. It may also be slippery in damp conditions. Hence, you can use trekking poles right from the start.

After a short walk, you arrive at Paiya. The village is located near a ridge that offers the first distant views of Dudh Kunda Himal. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as the Nepali grey langur or the colorful Danphe (Himalayan monal) in the forests. Stay overnight in Paiya.

After an early morning tea, we will descend to a wooden bridge and cross the Puiyan River. The Mera Peak trek trail then climbs through a steep and sometimes slippery section to reach Kari La Pass (3,145m). During the monsoon season, this section gets misty. After the small pass, we’ll walk through small hamlets and lush forests of bamboo and rhododendron. On the way, we can enjoy sweeping views of Dudh Kunda Himal and the Dudh Koshi Valley below. If the morning is clear, we may get glimpses of Naulekh Ridge, Kongde Ri, and the white dome of Mera Peak far to the east.

Then, as we near Pangom, we’ll pass mani walls and fluttering prayer flags. They are a sign you’re entering this beautiful Sherpa village. It is known for its locally made honey and buckwheat flour, which were once traded along old mule routes. The village also has a small monastery and a line of colorful mani walls. So, we will explore them for a peaceful experience and photography, respectively. We will stay overnight in Pangom.

Leaving Pangom early in the morning, we will follow a rocky trail descending through rhododendron and pine forests, which are especially beautiful during the spring bloom when the hills glow in shades of red and pink. Along the way, we’ll pass mani walls and prayer flags, signs of entering a culturally strong Sherpa area. The route continues through remote forested terrain and offers close-up views of Mera Peak’s south face (6,064 m) and Naulekh Ridge.

Finally, we reach the quiet settlement of Niumso (also known as Nigmsa). This village feels wonderfully isolated and serene. Here, most teahouses rely on solar power as there is no electricity grid. So teahouses glow dimly under candlelight. Thus, you can witness how Sherpas can live in the Himalayas, withstanding isolation and simplicity. We will stay overnight in Niumso.

After an early morning tea, we will follow a steep, narrow path uphill through rhododendron and bamboo forests. Then, we travel through a landslide-prone section near Chhatra Khola. We need to be careful while passing through, as the path can be slippery, especially after rain. From there, the trail descends to the Hinku River and continues along it. We trek through a dense forest along the boundary of Makalu Barun National Park. So, we can hear bird calls as we pass the mossy trees.

As we move further, we may spot Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer or the colorful Danphe. Then comes a river crossing. There, we often see temporary yak herders’ shelters. We will walk past a natural stone cave to finally reach Chetra Tenga Forest Camp. The camp lies along the banks of the Hinku River. This river-and-forest setting makes it a relaxing place for an overnight stay.

Continuing our Mera Peak journey from Chetra Tenga Forest Camp, we will ascend gradually to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the Hinku Valley. From this point, we will get the first clear view of Mera Peak (6,476m) rising above the valley. Then, we follow the trail along bamboo and pine forests rich in wildlife before descending gently toward the river.

Following the Hinku River upstream, we will pass through Tashing Dingma and continue to Khote. This village, situated at 3,580 meters, marks the first major settlement after several days in a remote region. It is also a permit checkpoint for those entering Makalu Barun National Park. Here, electricity is generated by micro-hydro plants on the Hinku River. We can get a reliable mobile signal and Wi-Fi here. So, we can go online and enjoy, and after three days of limited communication. We will stay overnight in Khote.

From Khote, we follow the western edge of the Hinku River. We’ll climb steadily toward Gondishung, which is a summer yak-herding settlement located on the western side of Hinku Drangka. From there, we will continue to the 200-year-old Lungsumba Gompa (3,960m). The gompa displays stone carvings and prayer flags. It is believed that lighting butter lamps protects climbers heading to Mera Peak. This trail section offers excellent views of the west summit of Mera Peak, Kusum Kanguru Ri, and the surrounding glacial valley.

After a short walk beyond the Gompa, we reach the village of Tagnag (Thaknak). It is a small yak-herding settlement with stone lodges and a solar charging station. Striking cliffs and glaciers surround this settlement. From here, more peaks, such as Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru, and Kangtega, are visible. You may also take an optional short walk to the nearby Sabai Tsho glacial lake, which offers even more breathtaking scenery. We will stay overnight in Tagnag.

Taking a break from trekking is essential for proper acclimatization and to avoid physical strain. After breakfast, those who are feeling fit can take a side hike to Kusum Kanguru Ri, which rises between the Hinku and Dudh Koshi valleys. We start with a gradual climb along a moraine trail toward the glacier rim, where you can enjoy clear views of Mingbo La and Amphu Lapcha Pass. Above Tagnag, the moraine trails reveal fossilized shells embedded in rocks, geological evidence of the Himalaya’s marine origin.

This hike offers excellent mountain and glacier scenery while helping your body acclimate to higher elevations. You can also visit the nearby Lungsumba Gompa or spend the afternoon resting at Tagnag. You can observe yak herders at work or practicing basic climbing techniques near the Dig Glacier area. We will stay overnight in Tagnag.

Leaving Tagnag, we will follow the trail through the lateral moraine of Dig Glacier to Dig Kharka (4,650m), a yak pasture. From here, we can get an impressive view of Charpate Himal. It has a distinctive square-shaped cliff, earning it the name “Charpate”. Then, the walk continues with a gradual climb through glacial moraines leading toward the snout of the Hinku Nup Glacier. The scenery becomes more rugged as we approach the higher elevations of the Khare valley.

We will cross the Shar Glacier and climb along a steep, rocky path to reach Khare, our base for the next few days. This village offers a magnificent view of the north face of Mera Peak. On clear mornings, we get an excellent spot for photos, with the frozen streams and sparkling ice. The mobile network is limited here, but the satellite Wi-Fi is available in most lodges. We will stay overnight in Khare.

Once we arrive at Khare, we will receive pre-climb training from our climbing guide. The guide will explain peak-climbing strategies and teach us how to properly use climbing gear, including ice axes, crampons, harnesses, and ascenders. Rope techniques for ascending and descending on ice will also be practiced on a nearby ice slope of Khare, using fixed ropes set by guides for crampon walking and self-arrest.

Later, we will follow the trail through boulder fields and the glacier to Mera Peak Base Camp, also called Mera La Camp. Moving slowly and steadily, we will reach the camp before returning to Khare for rest and preparation for the upcoming summit push. Thus, this training day is essential for safety, acclimatization, and building confidence for the climb. We will stay overnight in Khare.

Today we will climb from Khare to Mera High Camp via a steep, rocky route that soon joins the Mera Glacier. The trail is strenuous and passes several crevasses, so we will move carefully as we gradually gain altitude. Then, we reach the top of a rocky ledge marked by a cairn, where we will set up a tent at 5,780 meters.

Since it sits on a narrow, windy ledge above the glacier, it is chilly here in high camp. However, we also see one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the entire Mera Peak expedition. From here, we can see Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Baruntse stretching across the skyline, with Kanchenjunga visible far to the east. We see a beautiful sunset over Makalu and Baruntse, painting the peaks in hues of gold and crimson. We will spend the night at High Camp.

Now, the big day is here. We will begin our ascent in the early morning hours, usually around 2–3 a.m. This is important to reach the summit before the snow starts to melt under the sun. The temperature can drop to around -20°C at dawn, so we move slowly and steadily across the glacier using headlamps and fixed ropes. The trail then leads up the snow ridge to the Mera Central Summit (6,461m). From there, we continue to the true summit (6,476m) of Mera Peak. The climb is manageable for most beginners with guide supervision.

Once we reach at the summit, we are rewarded with one of the most magnificent views in the Himalayas. We can view five of the world’s 8,000-meter giants: Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. We will take our time to take in the moment of victory and capture photos of ourselves and the scenery. After 10-30 minutes at the Mera Peak summit, we will carefully descend to Base Camp and then continue back to Khare for a well-deserved rest. We will stay overnight in Khare.

We reserve this day in the Mera Peak climbing itinerary as a contingency. Keeping a buffer day can accommodate any delays caused by bad weather, health concerns, or other unforeseen circumstances during the climb. It ensures the team does not miss the chance to reach the summit safely and keeps the overall schedule flexible. It also provides the climbers a much-needed rest after the long and demanding ascent the day before.

And if the summit has already been achieved successfully, we will spend this day relaxing in Khare, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. You can enjoy warm meals and chat with fellow trekkers at the lodge. You can even take a short walk around the nearby ridges for additional views of Mera Peak and the glacial valley. This will be a day to recharge physically and mentally before beginning the descent toward lower elevations. Overnight in Khare.

After a successful summit and well-earned rest, we will begin our descent from Khare toward Khote. The trail follows the Hinku Valley, and we gradually descend through rocky slopes and alpine terrain. As we descend, we’ll notice the air getting warmer and see more greenery with every hour. Thus, we can trek comfortably at a lower altitude with fresh, unchilly air.

We’ll pass yak pastures and riverbanks so that we can hear the pleasant sounds of the flowing water all along the way. As we move lower, the landscape transitions from icy slopes to green vegetation. We can finally see rhododendron and juniper trees returning to view. Then, once we arrive at Khote, it feels warm and welcoming after days in the cold highlands. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Khote.

Leaving Khote, we will follow a gradually ascending trail that climbs up through beautiful forests of rhododendron, fir, and pine toward the western corner of the Hinku Valley. The path is peaceful and lined with blooming flowers in spring. We will see occasional views of snow peaks behind us. Then, after several hours of uphill trekking, we will reach our campsite at Thuli Kharka (4,000m), where only a few tea houses are available.

From the kharka, we get wide views of the Mera South Peak. As the day ends, we get one of the most picturesque sunsets of the journey. Here, the sunset may feel more familiar with orange light spilling across the mountain range and contrasting against the grasslands. Thus, Thuli Kharka is a tranquil overnight stop before crossing the Zatra La Pass on the final approach to Lukla.

Today, we will begin an early morning climb toward Zatra La Pass (4,610m). The pass has two summits: Zatrwa Og and Zatrwa La. The ascent is steady, and with each step, the mountain views expand more and more. If we’re trekking in early spring, expect the pass to be snow-covered. We’ll have to use crampons to cross the pass safely. From the top, we can enjoy sweeping views of Lukla Valley, along with Cho Oyu, Kongde, Numbur, and Kusum Khangru Peaks glistening at a distance under the sunlight.

From the pass, the trail descends sharply toward Chutanga. We’ll pass through alpine meadows and eventually enter the forest zone of rhododendron and oak. As we continue down, the air continues to grow warmer. Here, colorful prayer flags mark the final stretch toward Lukla. We will celebrate the successful completion of our trek with the crew upon arrival at the Lukla teahouse. Stay overnight at a teahouse in Lukla.

We will take an early morning flight from Lukla to Ramechhap, following the same scenic route with dramatic views of the Himalayas. Right after landing, we will begin the 5-hour drive back to Kathmandu through winding hills and small roadside settlements. We may stop midway for breakfast or lunch before reaching the city, depending on time. After arriving in Kathmandu, you will check in at the hotel. You will have time to relax and freshen up before joining the group for a celebration dinner in the evening. With this dinner, your Mera Peak adventure is completed. Stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

In the morning, we’ll have breakfast first and then go for a guided city tour. We’ll visit key UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. These landmarks highlight Nepal’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. This guided tour, about 3 hours long, offers a meaningful glimpse into Kathmandu’s traditions and daily life.

Then, the afternoon and evening will be free for shopping or leisure time. You can explore the bustling markets of Asan, Patan, or Thamel to buy local handicrafts, prayer flags, or trekking souvenirs. This day also serves as a backup in case of Lukla flight delays, ensuring a flexible, stress-free schedule before your return home. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

We will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your scheduled flight. The drive from Thamel usually takes 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic so that we will plan your departure accordingly. If you have a late flight, you may enjoy a relaxing coffee in one of Thamel’s rooftop cafes or take a short stroll around the nearby streets before heading to the airport. We wish you a safe journey and hope to see you again for another adventure in the Himalayas.