Introduction

Nepal, often called the hub of adventure, attracts enthusiasts from all over the world with its diverse experiences. While some visit for its national parks and wildlife safaris, many are drawn to its legendary trekking routes. The country is home to countless trails across the Khumbu and Annapurna regions, offering something for every level of trekker.

It is this variety that appeals not only to trekking enthusiasts but also to mountaineers. Each year, thousands of climbers arrive in Nepal to attempt some of the world’s most iconic and challenging peaks. From formidable giants like Mount Everest and Ama Dablam to less extreme but equally rewarding trekking peaks like Island Peak, Lobuche Peak & Mera Peak. Nepal welcomes adventurers of all levels—whether they are seasoned climbers or beginners taking their first step into the world of mountaineering.

Overview of Mera Peak

Mera Peak  lies in the Mahalangur section of the Himalayas, within the Barun sub-range, and administratively falls under the Sagarmatha National Park. Standing at 6,476 meters above sea level, it is regarded as the highest trekking peak in Nepal.

The standard route to the summit approaches from the north, requiring a steady traverse across glaciated terrain. In contrast, the south and west faces are far more technical and are suitable only for highly experienced climbers. From its summit, Mera Peak rewards climbers with breathtaking 360-degree views of five of the world’s 8,000-meter giants—Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.

Part of the Everest region, the approach to Mera Peak takes trekkers deep into the remote Hinku Valley. The journey begins at Lukla—the same starting point for expeditions to Everest Base Camp, Island Peak, and Lobuche. From Lukla, the trail winds toward Khare (5,045 m), which serves as the effective base camp for the climb.

Before the summit push, climbers establish one more camp: High Camp, at 5,780 m. The climb is thus divided into three key stages: the trek from Lukla to Khare, the ascent from Khare to High Camp, and finally, the summit push from High Camp to the peak and the return to Khare.

Climb Facts

• Max Elevation : 6476 Meters | 21,246 feet
• Total Duration: 16 Days
  • Trekking/Climbing Days:  10 Days
  • Acclimatization & Training Days: 4 Day
  • Buffer Days: 1 Day
• Level: Extremely Difficult

Accessibility of Mera Peak

The start of the Mera Peak expedition is very easily accessible. The journey originates in Kathmandu from the district of Thamel, which is often referred to as a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.

From Kathmandu you drive to the Ramechaap airport for an early morning flight to Lukla. This small village of Lukla is the start point of your trekking journey.

Located in the Everest region, the expedition to Mera peak takes you into the Hinku Khola Valley, which is secluded and far less crowded compared to the Khumbu and the Annapurna valleys.

From Lukla you continue trekking for about the next 6 days until you reach the village of Khare which serves as your Base Camp . After a day of acclimatization we make our way up to High Camp to briefly rest and recuperate before departing for the summit in the early morning hours before dawn.

Post the summit celebration, teams head down back to Khare and continue to trek down to Khote, Tuli Kharka and Lukla, going over the Zatrawa La pass one last time, bidding adieu to the valley after 3 further days of trekking, before reaching Lukla once again. The foot journey concludes in Lukla from where trekkers fly back to Ramechaap and then drive to civilization in Kathmandu.

Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu
• Day 2 – Fly to Lukla (2860m) & trek to Chutanga (3430m)
• Day 3 – Trek to Thuli Kharka (3900m) via Zatrawa La Pass (4610m)
• Day 4 – Trek from Thuli Kharka to Kothe (3600m)
• Day 5 – Trek from Kothe to Thangnak (4350m)
• Day 6 – Rest and acclimatization day at Thangnak
• Day 7 – Trek from Thangnak to Khare (5045m)
• Day 8 – Acclimatization Day + Technincal Climbing Equipment Familiarization & Training
• Day 9 – Trek from Khare to Mera Peak High Camp (5780m)
• Day 10 – Mera High Camp to Summit (6,476m) and return to Khare.
• Day 11 – Trek from Khare to Kothe
• Day 12 – Trek from Kothe to Thuli Kharka
• Day 13 – Trek from Thuli Kharka to Lukla via Zatrawa La Pass
• Day 14 – Fly from Lukla to Ramechhap/Kathmandu
• Day 15 – Buffer Day/Reserve Day for Bad Weather
• Day 16 – Fly out from Kathmandu

Best Season to Climb

The best seasons to climb Mera Peak are March to May and October to November, as these provide the best weather windows to climb in Nepal.

However, climbing in winter (December to February) is also becoming more popular, although the cold temperatures, high winds, and unstable weather make it more challenging. Therefore, climbers with less experience are recommended to attempt Mera Peak during the prime seasons for better chances of a successful climb and also reduces associated dangers of the adventure.

Temperatures and Expected Weather

In Kathmandu and Ramechhap, daytime temperatures range between 20–25°C. As climbers gain altitude, temperatures steadily drop. From Lukla onwards, daytime temperatures hover around 8–10°C, while nights turn chilly, ranging from 5–12°C (and occasionally falling to 4–8°C in strong winds). Temperatures drop further as we descend into the Hinku Valley and continue to fall steadily towards Base Camp, typically settling between 0°C and –5°C.

The Mera Peak High Camp (approximately 5,780 m) is considerably colder, with daytime temperatures ranging from –5°C to –10°C and nighttime temperatures plunging as low as –20°C.

On the summit (6,476 m), climbers can expect daytime temperatures between –10°C and –15°C, while nighttime temperatures, intensified by high winds and wind chill, can drop to around –30°C. Proper preparation for extreme cold is therefore essential during the summit attempt.

Terrain

The trail leading to Mera Peak offers a variety of terrain, starting with lush forests and gradually transitioning to rocky and barren landscapes. From Lukla, the route follows multiple smaller and distant villages towards Chutanga, Thangnak, Khare and high camp. As you continue walking ahead, the climb becomes steeper, and as climbers officially enter the arid zone, with no vegetation around.

In Khare even shrubs and ferns are nowhere to be seen and the region becomes a cold desert.

Finally, the last stretch involves navigating a glacier with open and hidden crevasses and ice-covered slopes, requiring the use of ropes, crampons, ice axes and other climbing gear.

Communication Channels on the Climb

While there is potential internet access in most tea houses along the trekking route, it is often slow and unreliable due to weather conditions and limited bandwidth. Nevertheless, climbers can expect to pay anywhere from 500 to 1500 Nepali Rupees for a 24-hour internet connection. For better communication, many climbers buy a local SIM card in Thamel, which works in many areas of the trek.

At the Mera Peak Base Camp, High Camp and the summit there is no network and communication can take place only once you are back down towards the valley.

Can a First-Timer Attempt Mera Peak?

At 6,476 m, Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal and often seen as an introduction to technical mountaineering. However, it is not recommended for absolute beginners. The expedition requires a strong endurance base, familiarity with climbing equipment, and the ability to move confidently on glaciated terrain.

Given the altitude above 6,000 m and extreme temperatures, total novices should reconsider attempting this climb. Prior experience on high-altitude treks or smaller trekking peaks is highly advisable. Less technical climbs such as UT Kangri, Kanamo Peak, or Kilimanjaro can help build mountaineering skills, while long treks like Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit, or Annapurna Circuit provide the cardiovascular foundation needed for the demanding approach from Lukla.

The final push to the summit, followed by the descent back to Khare, typically takes around 12 hours and is both physically and mentally exhausting. Climbers must be prepared to endure the combined strain of altitude, fatigue, and extended hours of effort.

Challenges on Mera Peak

Climbers attempting Mera Peak should be prepared for several key challenges:

• Unpredictable Weather: Conditions can shift rapidly, with high winds or heavy snowfall delaying or even halting a summit attempt. Careful monitoring of forecasts and choosing the right weather window are critical for success.

• Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is essential to reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Following a gradual ascent with scheduled rest days allows the body to adjust and ensures better performance at higher altitudes.

• Technical Skills: While Mera is less technical than other 6,000 m peaks, the summit push does require basic mountaineering skills, including the use of crampons, ice axes, and ropes. Climbers must be comfortable using these tools on glaciated, snow-covered terrain.

• Physical Fitness: The approach is long and demanding, with summit day often stretching to 12 hours or more. Strong cardiovascular endurance, stamina, and mental resilience are vital to cope with fatigue and altitude stress.

What Equipment is Needed?

Climbers should bring standard trekking gear, including layered clothing for high-altitude conditions, along with specialized climbing equipment. A full gear list is usually provided by the climbing operator, but some of the crucial mountaineering items include:

• Mountaineering boots (insulated, crampon-compatible)

• Crampons and micro-spikes

• Ice axe

• Climbing helmet

• Harness and ropes

• Gaiters

• Carabiners and belay device

• Headlamp with spare batteries

Level of Physical and Mental Fitness Needed

Climbing Mera Peak is a demanding challenge and requires both physical preparedness and mental resilience. It is not a climb for the faint-hearted.

Physical Fitness
Climbers need to build strong endurance and stamina to manage long days at altitude. This becomes especially critical during the summit push, which begins at night and can stretch 10–12 hours into the following afternoon, depending on weather and group pace. Solid cardiovascular fitness, combined with lower-body and core strength, makes the climb more achievable and reduces the risk of injury or fatigue.

Mental Fitness
Equally important is mental toughness. For first-time climbers, the transition from trekking to mountaineering can feel overwhelming, and it is common to face a mental block. Even experienced climbers may find the combination of high altitude, technical equipment, physical exhaustion, and rough terrain mentally challenging. The ability to stay calm, focused, and motivated despite discomfort is often the key factor that determines success on Mera Peak.

Prepping for the Summit

During the Mera Peak expedition, climbers stay in tea houses along the route, except at High Camp (5,780 m), where camping arrangements are provided. We include an additional acclimatization day at Khare to practice climbing techniques and become familiar with equipment.

On this day, climbers are introduced to their essential gear—mountaineering boots, harnesses, crampons, micro-spikes, carabiners, ropes, snow goggles, and helmets—and are taught how to use each item properly. Teams also practice rope-line techniques, including spacing, pacing, and coordination, to ensure smooth movement on summit day. This training session not only builds technical confidence but also prepares climbers mentally for the challenges ahead.

Chances of Fatality

While the risk of fatality on Mera Peak is relatively low, thorough preparation is crucial. The main hazards are unpredictable weather, altitude sickness, and poor decision-making under stress. To minimize risks, climbers should carefully follow the guidance of experienced guides, maintain proper acclimatization, and adhere strictly to safety protocols throughout the expedition.

Accommodation During the Expedition

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will spend your first day at a hotel in Thamel. From Day 2 onwards we enter the Hinku valley in the Everest region, and trek through Chutanga, Thuli Kharka, Khote, Khare and other small villages.  Throughout the trek, you’ll stay in tea houses and mountain lodges built for trekkers. These tea houses vary in size and are operated by local families who migrate to higher altitudes during trekking season. Rooms typically feature twin beds with mattresses, pillows, and blankets, and access to common bathrooms.

The tea houses also have fully functional kitchens that prepare fresh meals. The dining areas are equipped with tables, chairs, and a central Bukhari (stove) to keep you warm and cozy. The hospitality of the Nepali people enhances the entire trekking experience, making it unforgettable. At the Base Camp and High Camp of the Peak, we will be staying in a camping set up. With sleeping tents, toilet tents and the dining and kitchen tent, we set up camp for our stay before hitting the summit.

Meals Served

Tea houses along the trekking route provide a variety of meals, including dal bhat tarkari(a traditional Nepali dish), noodles, soups, and even international dishes like pizza and burgers. These meals are designed to provide the energy needed for the day’s trekking.

Climbing with Adventure Pulse

Climbing with Adventure Pulse means you will experience a well-organized and safe journey. Our team of experienced and certified guides and porters will support you every step of the way. We prioritize your safety, comfort, and overall experience, ensuring that you receive all the necessary guidance and support throughout your climb.

Adventure Pulse specializes in providing top-notch climbing equipment and expert guidance, ensuring you have the right tools and knowledge to tackle the challenges of Mera Peak. Our skilled guides, some of whom have summited Mount Everest multiple times, are well-versed in high-altitude conditions. They will teach you the technical aspects of climbing, the acclimatization process, and how to properly use gear like crampons, ice axes, and ropes, all while prioritizing your safety.

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