If you’re dreaming of climbing a Himalayan peak but don’t have years of mountaineering experience under your belt, Mera Peak is your gateway to high-altitude glory. Rising to an elevation of 6,476 meters (21,247 ft), Mera Peak offers one of the most accessible ways to summit a Himalayan giant—without needing technical climbing credentials.
From the untouched Hinku Valley to surreal sunrise views of Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, this trek promises a life-changing journey through remote landscapes, Sherpa villages, and glaciated summits.
mera peak nepal climbing
Location: Khumbu region, east of Everest
Altitude: 6,476 m (21,247 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Duration: 15–18 days
Best for: Fit trekkers wanting their first Himalayan peak
Region Highlight: Hinku Valley, Mera La, panoramic 8000m views
Mera Peak’s legacy began in the 1950s when members of the British expedition explored the area following early Everest attempts. Officially climbed first by French climbers Marcel Jolly and G. Baus in 1975, it has since become a favored choice for beginner mountaineers and seasoned trekkers alike.
Today, it’s recognized by the Nepal Mountaineering Association as a trekking peak — meaning it doesn’t require intensive technical climbing, making it ideal for adventure seekers looking to step up from trekking to mountaineering.
Here’s why the Mera Peak expedition should be your top pick for a Himalayan climb:
🏔️ Highest trekking peak in Nepal
👣 Low-crowd route through the offbeat Hinku Valley
🌅 Epic summit views of five 8000m peaks, including Everest & Kanchenjunga
❄️ Glacier trekking experience without technical walls
🧗 Great preparation for Everest or Island Peak
🏕️ Stunning alpine campsites under the stars
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, briefing and gear check
Day 2: Flight to Lukla (2,860m), acclimatization trek
Day 3: Trek to Chutanga (3,050m), lush forest walk
Day 4: Cross Zatra La Pass (4,600m), reach Tuli Kharka
Day 5: Trek to Kothe (3,600m), enter Hinku Valley
Day 6: Kothe to Thangnak (4,350m), yak pasture views
Day 7: Acclimatization day at Thangnak
Day 8: Trek to Khare (5,045m), glacier views begin
Day 9: Training day at Khare – rope skills, crampons
Day 10: Trek to Mera High Camp (5,780m)
Day 11: Summit Day – Climb Mera Peak (6,476m), descend to Khare
Day 12–14: Return via same route to Lukla
Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 16: Leisure day / buffer day for weather
Day 17: Departure
📍Note: Alternative helicopter drops to Khare available for short itineraries.
Mild weather
Clear skies for summit
Rhododendrons in bloom
Dry, stable conditions
Best visibility of mountain ranges
⚠️ Avoid:
Monsoon (June–August): Wet, muddy, poor visibility
Winter (December–February): Snow accumulation, extreme cold
Classic Route via Zatra La Pass
Most scenic
Good acclimatization
Starts from Lukla
Khare Helicopter Drop Option
Saves time
Best for fit, acclimatized climbers
Amphu Laptsa Pass to Island Peak Combo
Highly technical
Ideal for expedition-level training.
To climb Mera Peak legally, you need:
✅ Mera Peak Climbing Permit (Seasonal pricing)
✅ Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
✅ Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
✅ TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)
🧾 Pro Tip: Let your trekking agency handle permits. It saves time and ensures compliance.
You don’t need to be a pro climber, but Mera Peak isn’t a walk in the park. Prepare with:
🏃♂️ 3 months of cardio (running, stair climbing, trekking)
🏋️♀️ Strength training (legs, core)
🎒 Practice hikes with 10kg backpack
🧗 Optional Intro mountaineering course for rope and crampon work
| Gear Type | Essentials |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Base layers, down jacket, waterproof pants |
| Footwear | Double mountaineering boots (for crampons) |
| Climbing | Crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet |
| Accessories | Glacier glasses, headlamp, sunblock |
| Sleep | -20°C sleeping bag |
| Extras | First aid kit, energy snacks, hydration tabs |
🔄 Rental gear available in Kathmandu.
❄️ Altitude sickness – Follow proper acclimatization
🧊 Crevasses – Rope travel essential on glacier sections
🌪️ Weather shifts – Always follow guide advice
🧑⚕️ Emergency prep – Guides carry sat phones + first aid
💡 Pro Tip: Get insurance that includes high-altitude rescue by helicopter
Starts before dawn from High Camp
6–8 hour climb across snowfields
Fixed ropes may be used on final slopes
Gradual but demanding ascent
Epic 360-degree Himalayan views at summit:
➤ Everest
➤ Lhotse
➤ Makalu
➤ Baruntse
➤ Ama Dablam
Descent to Khare is done the same day.
| Expense Type | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Permit Fees | $250–400 |
| Guide & Porter | $25–35/day |
| Food & Teahouses | $20–30/day |
| Climbing Gear (rental) | $100–200 |
| Kathmandu–Lukla Flight | $300 round-trip |
| Total Package (agency) | $2000–$2500 |
📞 Local agencies like Nepal Alpine Treks or Highlander Treks offer customizable packages.
If you’re craving more than just a trek—but not quite ready for Everest—Mera Peak is your perfect middle ground. It’s adventurous yet accessible, remote yet rewarding. With the right preparation and support, summiting a Himalayan peak is absolutely within reach.
From glacier training to sweeping views of the tallest mountains on Earth, Mera Peak delivers a climbing experience that blends physical challenge, cultural richness, and pure mountain magic.
1. How hard is it to climb Mera Peak?
It’s considered moderately hard. You need endurance, but no technical climbing.
2. Do I need a climbing guide for Mera Peak?
Yes. Nepal law requires licensed guides for peaks above 6,000m.
3. Can beginners climb Mera Peak?
Yes, with good fitness and basic gear training.
4. Can I rent equipment in Kathmandu?
Absolutely. All climbing gear is available for rent near Thamel.
5. Is altitude sickness common on Mera Peak?
Yes, if not properly acclimatized. That’s why rest days are included.
6. Do I need travel insurance for Mera Peak?
Yes. Insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.
7. How long does it take to complete the Mera Peak trek?
Standard itineraries are 15–18 days.
8. Can I see Mount Everest from Mera Peak?
Yes! The summit offers clear views of Everest, Makalu, and more.
We are a government-authorized trekking agency in Nepal. We have strictly followed all necessary legal procedures and obtained necessary licenses and certificates to be liable to operate travel services in Nepal.
