Enquire Now

Mera Peak Nepal








    Smaller group sizes

    Putting local communities first

    Your safety is our number one focus

    Sustainable travel

    Amazing experiences at affordable prices

    The Mountains

    At 6476m Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal. Located at the head of the Hinku Valley at the eastern edge of the Khumbu region Mera Peak has three main summits – Mera South, Mera Central and Mera North and all three offer spectacular 360 degree views which include 5 of the world’s 14, 8000m mountains including Mount Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. Mera Central was first climbed on 20 May 1953 by Colonel Jimmy Roberts and Sen Tenzing. Mera North, the highest summit of the three, was first climbed sometime between 29 October 1973 and 1975 although the details are not entirely clear.

    The Trek

    Leaving Lukla the trek into Mera Peak initially takes us south to Paiya and Panggom before turning north and heading into the Hinku valley. This gives plenty of time for acclimatisation before we reach the Mera La and prepare ourselves for the summit. The return journey is more direct and takes us over the high pass of Zatwra La (4600m) before dropping back down to Lukla.

    Best Time To Go

    You can climb Mera Peak at any time during the spring or autumn seasons (March through to May and September through to November) although the weather tends to give the best summit windows on Mera Peak in May and October.

    Board your international flight heading from the UK to Kathmandu.

    Once you have collected your luggage and made your way out of the airport terminal building you will be met by one of our local representatives and transferred to your hotel in the busy Kathmandu district of Thamel.

    After breakfast you will be collected for your sightseeing tour. Highlights include:

    • Durbar Square – This ancient location has been the home to Kings throughout different dynasties and is also the home to some of the finest Hindu and Buddhist architecture in the region.
    • Swayambhunath – Set on a hilltop to the west of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath is one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal. The site itself is a collection of small stupas and a pagoda temple built over different periods by a succession of kings and noblemen. The main structure is made of a solid hemisphere of brick and clay supporting a conical spire of copper gilt. Painted on the four sides on the base of the spire are the “All Seeing Eyes” of Lord Buddha. Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple.
    • Bouddhanth – This colossal and ancient Stupa is one of Nepal’s most unique monuments and is said to be the world’s biggest Stupa. Baudhanath Stupa is said to hold the remains of Kasyapa – the Buddha of the previous time. One hundred meters in diameter, this Stupa is 36 metres high. Its pinnacle represents the stages of enlightenment, symbol of royalty, compassion, knowing and nirvana.
    • Pashupatinath – With its two-tiered golden roof and silver doors this temple is famous for its superb Newari architecture. Situated near the banks of the sacred Bagmati River only Hindus are permitted to enter, however visitors can clearly see the temple from the eastern bank of the river.

    After the sightseeing tour you can relax before we take you to a traditional restaurant for a welcome dinner and live Nepali cultural show.

    After breakfast in your hotel you will be transferred to Kathmandu’s Domestic Air Terminal for a morning flight to Lukla. On arrival you will meet your Sirdar and the rest of the crew and then set off on the trek to Puyan where you will stay overnight in a Tea House.

    After crossing the Poyan Khola, we turn off the main trade route coming up from the south and join an older route, which climbs steeply to the ridgeline overlooking the Khare Khola. Descending the other side of the ridge, we then contour along the hillside before climbing steadily up to the attractive farming and trading village of Pangkongma (2,846m) where we will stay overnight in a Tea House.

    With fine views westwards towards Takshindu monastery and Lamjura, we climb through thick rhododendron forest and bamboo leading to the Pangkongma La and gain good views of the south face of Mera with its twin peaks and of its neighbour Naulekh. We then make a scenic descent with beautiful views looking south across the endless foothills rising each side of the Hinku valley. This steep descent leads down to the wire rope bridge that spans the Hinku Khola. A steep climb on the opposite side leads to Nashing Dingma (2,600m) where we will stay overnight in a Tea House.

    Gaining height gradually through pasture and lush greenery, the trail steepens as we climb up to the Surke La. It is possible to take a nice, welcome cup of tea in a lodge just over the pass. Overnight in a Tea house at Chalem Kharka.

    Climbing the side of a ridge, we emerge from the last traces of rhododendron and the terrain becomes more rugged. Passing through high grazing country and crossing a small pass, we are treated to some excellent views of Kangchenjunga and Jannu to the east. We continue climbing to Panch Pokari and then on to Chunbu Kharka where we overnight in a Tea House.

    One of the longest walking days, mostly downhill. We will traverse several flats and spurs until we gain our first view of Mera Peak. From here we will drop down into the isolated Hinku Valley. Aside from mountaineers, the Hinku Valley is sparsely populated and very pristine. We will ascend a steep section of trail until we enter the forest, where we will stop for lunch. Eventually we will drop down into the humid, bamboo forests, before turning north up along the west side of the Hinku River towards Mera Peak, slowly ascending to Thaksingdingma where we will stay overnight in a Tea House.

    Today we will have amazing mountain views as we continue north up the Hinku Valley. The trail gently climbs along the west bank of the Hinku River. Spectacular mountains, such as Kusum Kanguru to the west and Mera Peak to the east, will be in view throughout the morning. We will make our way up onto the meadows on the western side of the Hinku Valley, climbing above the tree line and stopping for lunch. Throughout the afternoon, we will traverse meadows and hill slopes, dotted with grazing yaks, until we reach the settlement of Tangnak where we will stay overnight in a Tea House.

    An important day as we help our bodies become accustomed to operating at high altitudes. After breakfast we will take a gentle walk up to an altitude of around 5000m before returning to Thangnak for lunch. Overnight in a Tea House.

    Today we will climb above 5000m (16,400ft) for the first time. Our hike up to Khare is short, but we will take it slowly, with frequent stops to soak up the incredible surroundings. The trail heads eastward out of Thangnak, along the lateral moraine of the Dig Glacier. We will pause to climb up the moraine for a view of the pristine Sabai Tso glacial lake. A drop in lake level, caused by a recent rupture of the natural dam that held the lake, is clearly visible. We will arrive at Khare in the early afternoon and have lunch. Overnight will be spent in a Tea House.

    Our second acclimatisation day will be spent around Khare where we will take a short morning walk to a nearby viewpoint before returning to the Tea House for lunch.

    Today we will travel a short distance, slowly ascending up onto the Mera glacier. The climb is initially steep, flattening out as we reach the crest of the glacier. We will traverse a long flat on top of the glacier as we make our way to the pass, called Mera La (5,400m, 17,710ft). From here, the views are stunning. Crevasse fields gently stretch out in front of the pass and we are literally enclosed by a ring of jagged peaks and blue-green glaciers. The remaining route up to the summit of Mera Peak is clearly visible. We will have lunch at Mera La before descending to Mera Peak Base Camp and spending the afternoon relaxing and staying warm. Overnight Camp.

    A chance to practice and refresh the skills we will need when we make our final ascent to the summit of Mera Peak and another opportunity to rest and acclimatise.

    After breakfast we tackle the short, steep climb up to High Camp, taking it steady we aim to arrive for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation and preparation for our summit bid. At 5,800 m (19,025ft), High Camp is nestled behind a large rock outcrop and has been called one of the most glorious viewpoints in Nepal – from here, to the east you can see Kanchenjunga, Chamlang, Makalu and Baruntse and looking north Everest peers over the massive unclimbed South Face of Lhotse and Nuptse.

    Departing High Camp before dawn we will make our way up the glacier to the highest summit of Mera, the northern summit. The route is straightforward and normally takes around 6-7 hours. The reward is one of the world’s most spectacular mountain views, including Everest and Lhotse to the north, Cho Oyu to the northwest, and Kanchenjunga and Makalu to the east. After enjoying the views and drinking it all in we will make our way back down to the Mera La for lunch and then on to Khare and an overnight stay in a Tea House.

    We keep a day in reserve in case of poor weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This is our final opportunity to achieve the summit if we haven’t already done so.

    The journey back to Lukla takes three days and covers some spectacular scenery including the Zatrwa La, a 4600m high pass. Initially the route is a reverse of the way we came, through juniper meadows and back down to the river before turning right, passing through birch and rhododendron forests and climbing up towards the Zatrwa La which reveals breath-taking views. The last day of the trek is fairly long and covers some steep descents but it’s definitely worth it with the temptation of a cold beer in Lukla spurring you on!

    After breakfast we head to the small airstrip in Lukla for the flight back to Kathmandu. Overnight in Thamel Eco Resort.

    A day to catch your breath, buy souvenirs and take in the sights and sounds of Kathmandu before packing to head home. Overnight in Thamel Eco Resort.

    A private transfer to the airport in time for your international flight.

    From To Price Availability  
    29/03/2024 22/04/2024 £2995 8 Spaces Available Enquire Now
    26/10/2024 19/11/2024 £2995 8 Spaces Available Enquire Now

    Included in the price of this trip

    • Private arrival and departure transfers to and from the airport in Kathmandu.
    • Pre-Climb (2 nights) and Post Climb (2 nights) accommodation in the bustling district of Thamel, Kathmandu in the Thamel Eco Resort (http://www.thamelecoresort.com/) in shared rooms (twin) on Bed & Breakfast basis (single rooms available for a supplement).
    • Traditional Nepalese welcome dinner.
    • Kathmandu sightseeing tour (including Guide, private transport, and all entrance fees).
    • Transfer to/from domestic air terminal.
    • Internal return flights to Lukla.
    • All National Park and other entry fees and all permits.
    • Fully supported camping trek with tents and camping equipment.
    • All meals plus tea/coffee whilst trekking (see frequently asked questions for more details).
    • 3lts of boiled water for drinking per day.
    • Professional guiding and support team including Climbing Sherpa support.
    • Portage of 15kg per client.
    • All wages, clothing and insurances for Guide/s and porters.
    • Access to satellite phone (all calls must be paid for).
    • High quality Monkey Mountaineering branded duffel bag for use on trek (you will receive this on arrival in Kathmandu).

    Not included

    • International Flights from/to the UK.
    • Personal clothing and equipment (see our clothing and equipment section for guidance about what to bring).
    • Additional accommodation in Kathmandu at the start or end of your trek should you choose to arrive early or stay longer.
    • Meals whilst staying in Kathmandu (hotel is Bed & Breakfast basis).
    • Drinks whilst in Kathmandu or trekking (water, soft drinks, tea/coffee, alcoholic beverages etc – see frequently asked questions).
    • Expenses of a personal nature such as telephone calls, laundry etc.
    • Tips for Guides, Drivers, and Porters.
    • Personal travel insurance (to cover you for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects etc.). You must ensure you have adequate cover for emergency medical treatment and rescue costs (including helicopter rescue costs) whilst climbing up to 6476m.
    • Additional expenses incurred should there be a need to amend your itinerary or curtail your trek/climb early for whatever reason and transfer you back to Kathmandu or a medical facility or hotel (it is essential that you have personal travel insurance that includes cover for trekking/climbing Mera Peak).

    Essential Clothing & Equipment

    • Boots

      A good pair of light-weight GoreTex lined walking boots which provide ankle support and are well broken-in. Boots are essential - Please do not bring trail shoes.

    • Boots High Altitude

      A good quality High Altitude double boot with an insulating gaiter is preferable. It is important that these boots are as warm as possible. We recommend boot such as La Sportiva G2 Evo or Scarpa Phantom 6000s or 8000s. These can be hired from http://www.expeditionkithire.co.uk/index.html. Make sure there is sufficient room in these boots for a good thick sock and a liner sock – tight boots can lead to frostbite so please make sure whatever boots you choose have adequate space.

    • Buff

      Essential for helping to keep the sun off your neck at lower altitudes, protecting from dust and wind and as neck/face protection higher up.

    • Climbing Harness - Lightweight

      A lightweight alpine type climbing harness will work best. Ensure it is large enough to go on over all your clothing.

    • Climbing Helmet

      You only have one head - best to look after it. Make sure you can wear a beanie/woolly hat under your climbing helmet

    • Crampons - C3

      12 point mountaineering crampons with anti-balling plates. Ideally these will have a rigid toe and heal bale as opposed to flexible bindings and will be a good fit to your expedition/B3 boots.

    • Down Jacket - Expedition Weight

      An expedition weight down jacket for wearing at high altitude and on summit day. Ideally it should be at least 380g of 800+ fill down (or equivalent) and baffle construction with a hood – make sure it is rated down to at least -25 degrees C, the warmer the better!

    • Dry Bags

      A selection of rucksack liners and dry bags as required to keep your clothing, sleeping bag and equipment dry and organised.

    • Duffle Bag

      This should be big enough to carry all the clothing and equipment you have with you. It will be carried by a porter, so a soft duffle type bag is best – suitcases are not suitable.

    • Face Mask

      Not essential but worth considering – Buff can be used instead.

    • Gilet

      This is an optional item but a good choice as an extra layer to keep your core warm. Any gilet you choose should be low volume (not bulky) down, primaloft or fleece.

    • Head Torch

      With spare batteries or the means to recharge.

    • High Altitude Socks

      Thick socks for wearing above Base Camp in your High Altitude Boots. Take 2 pairs and keep one pair in reserve for summit day. Socks such as Thorlo extreme cold or Smartwool mountaineering extra heavy crew socks are great.

    • Hiking Socks

      We recommend a good pair of proper hiking/trekking socks. A minimum of three pairs but ideally you should have a pair for each day.

    • HMS Karabiners

      These should be locking Karabiners – you will need a minimum of 2.

    • Ice Axe

      This should be a walking axe between 55 and 65 cm long.

    • Insulated Jacket

      Can be down or synthetic.

    • Jumar

      Can be left-handed or right-handed, the choice is yours – for use on any fixed line we might need to use.

    • Lightweight Walking Trousers

      To wear on a daily basis if not wearing shorts and for evening wear. Jeans or tracksuit bottoms are not suitable.

    • Liner Gloves

      Thin silk/wool/polypropylene liner gloves – 2 pairs.

    • Liner Socks

      2 to 3 pairs. For wearing in your expedition boots.

    • Long-Sleeved Thermal Top

      Essential base layer for colder days and nights. Pack at least 2 of these.

    • Mid-Layer

      Lightweight microfleece or something similar is ideal as a mid-layer. You should bring two mid-layer tops – tops with zips allow ventilation and are often better than round neck tops.

    • Mittens

      Expedition standard modular mittens with a warm fleece lined inner and a durable windproof/waterproof outer shell. Ideally your mittens will also have wrist straps.

    • Outer Gloves

      These should fit over your liner gloves and be fleece lined with a durable windproof/waterproof outer shell. Ideally they will have wrist straps.

    • Pee Bottle

      A 1lt Nalgene bottle works well so long as it is clearly marked as a ‘pee bottle’, saves time and energy by removing the need to leave your tent in the middle of the night. Females may wish to purchase a ‘Shewee’ or similar.

    • Personal First Aid Kit

      This should include suncream, lip balm, blister plasters (compeed), plasters, painkillers and any prescription medicines, insect repellant etc.

    • Rucksack 30lt

      A small rucksack, around 30lt will be ideal.

    • Shorts

      These are optional but the weather is often good enough for shorts.

    • Sleeping Bag - Expedition

      This should have a comfort rating of at least -25 (4 or 5 seasons). It is important to get a good night’s sleep and so you need to ensure your sleeping bag will keep you warm.

    • Sleeping Bag - Liner

      Optional silk liner for extra warmth and to help keep your sleeping bag clean.

    • Sleeping Matt

      Good ground insulation is crucial as is a comfy surface to sleep on that softens the hardness of the ground. A full length inflatable sleeping mat is recommended.

    • Sling 60cm

      Two x 60cm slings.

    • Small Padlocks

      As required to provide security for your bags.

    • Snow Goggles

      For protecting your eyes on glaciers and/or travelling in snowy winter conditions.

    • Soft Shell Trousers

      These should be insulated/fleece lined for winter use.

    • Soft-Shell Jacket

      Make sure it is insulated and, importantly, windproof (not all soft-shell jackets are windproof).

    • Sports Bra

      Ladies only, take 2. Should be a technical fabric, avoid cotton.

    • Sports Sandals/Flip Flops/Crocks

      Or something similar for river crossings/around campwhen not wearing your boots/in the tea houses etc.

    • Sun Hat

      To keep the sun off your head!

    • Sunglasses

      For general eye protection, wearing whilst trekking or on glaciers if applicable to your trip – for wearing on glaciers sunglasses need to be Category 4 and be close fitting or have side protection.

    • Tee-shirt

      For wearing on a daily basis whilst trekking. Should be a technical fabric – avoid cotton as it is slow to dry. You will need 2 or 3 of these.

    • Thermal Long Johns

      1 pair, for wear at high altitude an/or whilst sleeping.

    • Toiletries and Travel Towel

      Include wet wipes, hand sanitizer and toilet tissues as well as nappy sacks or dog poo bags (to bag your toilet paper and keep rubbish under control).

    • Underwear

      Ideally these will be quick drying and moisture wicking. Take 3 pairs as a minimum.

    • Water Bladder

      It is essential that you have the means to carry at least 2 litres of drinking water. The best solution is a bladder type water carrier such as a camelbak as this then allows you to drink whilst walking with no need to stop to get out a water bottle.

    • Water Bottle

      At higher altitudes your Camelbak may freeze and so it is a good idea to have a 1 litre Nalgene type bottle. Also great for events like the Cuillin ridge Traverse.

    • Water Purification System

      Running water found along the trail ‘should’ be drinkable but it makes sense to have some sort of purification system such as ‘water purification tablets’, filtration system or UV light purification system (recommended).

    • Waterproof Jacket

      Hard shell jacket ideally this will be waterproof and breathable (GoreTex or equivalent) and it will have a hood.

    • Waterproof Trousers

      Ideally they should be windproof and breathable (Gore Tex or equivalent) and with full or ¾ length side zips.

    • Woolly hat

      To keep your head warm - Ideally a hat that will cover your ears too and fit under a climbing helmet.

    Optional Clothing & Equipment

    • Camera

      Make sure you have spare batteries or the means to re-charge.

    • Ear Plugs

      To help with sleeping.

    • Hand/Feet Warmers

      Not essential but extremely useful on summit day if the weather is very cold and/or windy. Taped on top of clothing (at the wrist/forearm or boot top) they can make a real difference.

    • Mobile Phone

      You may want to use you phone as a camera. On our overseas trips signal is often limited or non-existent so making calls or sending texts may not be possible - see FAQs for trip specific info.

    • Penknife

      Or multitool - useful for kit repairs etc.

    • Sewing Kit

      Optional but useful for running repairs to clothing or equipment.

    • Small Stainless Steel Flask

      Useful for hot drinks during the day/night

    • Travel clothing

      Clothing that you will not wear whilst on the trek. This can be packed in a small bag and left at your accommodation for collection on your return.

    • Walking poles

      Not essential but extremely useful when carrying a load, descending and for any river crossings.

    Paperwork

    • Booking Confirmation

      This will be sent to you aproximately 10 days before departure

    • Immunization Papers

      Check requirement - see specific country information at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/

    • Insurance Documents

      It is crucial that you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical treatment and rescue apropriate for your trip. You must ensure you take your insurance documents with you and that the 24 hour emergency contact number for your insurance is clearly identifiable.

    • Passport and Visa

      Your passport should have at least 6 months validity beyond your last day of travel. It is worth making a photocopy of your passport and bringing this with you too just in case. See https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for information about Visa requirements. See also our FAQs for Visa information.

    • Passport Photos

      Please bring 4 x Passport Photos which will be required for climbing and trekking permits.

    Carbon Footprint

    We are yet to determine the average CO2 emissions per person for our Mera Peak trip.

    What are we doing about it

    Trekking and mountaineering trips such as this are low carbon in comparison to other forms of travel and activities. That said though, we are working hard to understand exactly what the carbon emissions are for all our products. By the end of 2024 we hope to have measured everything we do and have a good understanding of all the individual carbon footprints. This will then act as a starting point for us to take action to reduce our emissions to as low as reasonably practicable and drive towards net zero.

    FAQs

    No, unfortunately we don’t currently provide equipment for hire but can recommend Expedition Kit Hire.

    A deposit of 25% of the total cost of the trip/course is payable at the time of booking and the balance is due 8 weeks before the departure date. If the booking takes place less than 8 weeks before departure, then the full amount is due at the time of booking. If you would like to discuss payment options, then please get in touch.

    A comprehensive list of clothing and equipment required for your trip can be found by visiting the ‘Kit List” tab on the relevant experience.

    Please refer to our Booking Conditions which can be found here. Alternatively, please feel free to contact a member of the team.

    Our base in Kathmandu is the Thamel Eco Resort.

    Nepal is a country in Asia. It lies along the southern slopes of the Himalayan mountain range. It is bordered by China to the North and India to the south, east and west. Nepal has a diverse landscape, including fertile plains and subalpine forested hills. It has eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, including Mount Everest which stands at 8848m, the highest point on Earth.

    Nepal’s capital city is Kathmandu, it is also the largest with around a 1 million multi-ethnic population with Hindu and Buddhist the majority. It is also known as the city of temples, it has been and remains the main city for arts, culture and history. Kathmandu holds many cultural and religious festivals, and this is a way of life for the people who reside in this area.

    “Tourism is a big part of the Nepalese economy and Kathmandu is considered the main gateway for exploring the great Himalayas and world heritage sites which attracts 1.5million visitors a year.”

    The Sherpa people are an ethnic group who have lived at high altitudes in the Himalayan mountains for generations. The main language is derived from Tibetan and the Sherpa people practice Nyingmapa which is an Ancient school of Buddhism, allegedly the oldest Buddhist sect in Tibet. In addition to Buddha the Sherpa believe in deities and demons who they believe inhabit every mountain. These beliefs are respected and are practices that have been woven into the Buddhist life. Sherpa’s consider the great Himalayan mountains sacred, and rituals and prayers on the mountains are part of their beliefs.

    Many Sherpa people are considered as elite mountaineers because of their experience in high altitude and expert knowledge of the area, because of this they became invaluable to the early explorers of the Himalayas. Today Sherpas are an integral part of high-altitude climbs on expeditions to the 8000m mountains, especially Mt Everest.

    Yes – A Monkey Mountaineering representative will meet you at the airport to begin your trip.

    Look for more

    Bespoke experiences

    Can’t see what you are looking for? All our trips can be customised to meet your needs so, if you need bespoke dates, want to add extra days, or modify the itinerary then please just let us know – we will be happy to help.