Mera Peak Climbing

Overview:

Mera Peak (6,461m/ 21,190 ft) is the highest trekking peak in the Khumbu Valley region and is tantalizingly close to Mt. Everest. Climbing Mera Peak is a great adventure and an unforgettable achievement and, for those without mountaineering experience, it is an opportunity to climb into the rarified world of high mountains.

The climb to Mera Peak starts after a short and breathtaking flight to the mountain airstrip of Lukla. From there you will trek for several days through remote and lovely valleys to reach the area of Mera. The walk in through the rhododendron, bamboo and cedar forests of the Hinku Valley is incredibly beautiful and provides very good acclimatization for the challenges ahead. The climb to Mera Peak itself will be done from a high base camp, where you will spend enough time to ensure that you are ready to reach the summit.

The most important qualifications you need to have to ascend Mera peak are: excellent physical fitness, a willingness to be flexible and a desire for adventure. You will be going where few others tread, well away from the popular ‘apple pie’ routes on a demanding trek with long days and high altitude. However the trek is not technically difficult as there are only a few really steep snow slopes.

Our goal is to give you a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Nepal and we are very committed to your enjoyment, success and safety.

Itinerary Detail

Mera Peak Climbing Detailed Itinerary:

Day 01: Kathmandu (1300m.).  You will be greeted by a representative from Wildpath Adventure at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Day 02: Kathmandu (1300m.). Overnight at Hotel. After a buffet breakfast, the group will meet the other participants and our climbing leader and do some preparation for the trip. The afternoon can be spent exploring Kathmandu, shopping for gear or visiting any of the beautiful temples and palaces in the city. We will meet for a welcome dinner at a  traditional Nepalese restaurant where you will enjoy a traditional Nepalese dinner.

Day 03: Fly to Lukla and trek to Paiya (Chutok) [2730m./3 to4 hrs). Overnight at camp. After an early morning breakfast, take the spectacular 40-minute flight to Lukla. After final preparations in Lukla , trek gently up and down the hills to reach Paiya. Along the way there are many traditional villages and the first of many beautiful mountain panoramas to enjoy.

Day 04: Trek to Pangkoma (2850m./5 to 6 hrs) Overnight at camp. In the morning, cross the Kari La (2840m.) pass and then in the afternoon trek easily through lovely rhododendron and bamboo forest. Along the way there are excellent views of the Dudh Khosi River valley and Dudh Kund Himal mountains.  

Day 05: Trek to Nigmsa (Shibuche) (2745m./4 to 5 hrs). Overnight at camp.

The trail descends to a rhododendron forest, passing many Mani walls along the way. After lunch, there are tantalizing views of the south face of Mera Peak and Naulekh Peak as the trail climbs again through forest.  

Day 06: Trek to Chetrakhola (3150m./7 to 8 hrs). Overnight at camp. Follow a steep mountain trail through landslides, scree and rhododendron and bamboo forests. Keep an eye open for some of the interesting wildlife, such as the sloth bear and jungle cat, that live in the area. Camp by the river.

Day 07: Trek to Kothe (3600m./6 to 7 hrs). Overnight at camp. Today’s trek provides excellent views of the Hinku Valley as the trail climbs through bamboo and pine forest. There are also fine views of Mera along the way.

Day 08: Trek to Tangnang [4350m./3 to 4 hrs). Overnight at camp. The trek today is a pleasant short day, as the trail follows along the ridge of the Hinku Khola (river) in the shadow of Mera Peak. Before arriving at the camp, the group will stop at the 200 year-old Lungsumgba Gompa, which has an ancient script of Mera peak and the route. It is traditional to offer a prayer for a  successful ascent of Mera Peak at this Gompa. From there it is a short walk to Tangnang, which is a summer grazing area.

Day 09: Acclimatization day at Tangnang. Overnight at camp. Staying at Tangnang an extra day, the time can be spent resting or taking a half day hike up to the Charpate Himal Glacier. The views of the North face of Mera are outstanding from this camp.

Day 10: Trek to Khare. ([5045m./2 to 3 hrs). Overnight at camp. Follow the lateral moraine of Dig Glacier to Dig Kharka, which offers spectacular views of Charpate Himal. The trail then climbs through moraines and then rises steeply to the camp at Khare. The views of Mera Peak are even more beautiful and awe-inspiring at this camp.

Day 11: Trek to Mera Base Camp. (5300m./3 to 4 hrs). Overnight at camp. Walk through boulder –strewn fields to reach the Base Camp of Mera Peak. After lunch, for those who need more experience with crampons, roping up and how to use an ice ax, there will be time to train.

Day 12: Acclimatization day at Mera Base Camp. Overnight at camp. An extra acclimatization day is included here to increase the chances of a successful summit

Day 13: Trek to High Camp. (5780m./4 to 5 hrs). Overnight at camp. The route goes  over the Mera La (5415m.) to reach Mera High Camp,  traveling through boulders and rock-strewn terrain. There may be some crevasses here if there has been snow, so care must be taken in this area. Once at  camp, there is plenty of time to rest and  enjoy the magnificent sunset  views over Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lotshe and Nuptse.

Day 14: Climb to Mera Summit (6,461m) and back to Khare (5045m./ 8-9 hrs). Overnight at camp This is it!  Wake up around 2.30 am and have a very early breakfast.  After final preparations, climb to the summit in 4 to 6 hours. The rewards of reaching the peak of Mera Central are many, including magnificent views of Mt. Everest and 4 other 8000m+ giants:  Cho-Oyu , Lhotse , Makalu and  Kangchenjunga  as well as many peaks over 7000 and 6000 metres. Retrace your steps down to the high camp, where well-deserved hot soup and tea will be served. Then continue down to Khare for the night.

Day 15: Contingency Day.  As there is no guarantee that the weather will be favorable for summiting on Day 14, there is an extra day in the schedule to allow for this.  There may also be group members who need an extra day to acclimatize before summiting. If all goes well, this spare day will not be necessary and it can be used in Kathmandu..

Day 16: Trek to Kothe [3600m./ 4 to 5 hrs). Overnight at camp. Descend quickly  back to the Hinku valley to Kothe where the climb will be celebrated again.

Day 17: Trek to Thuli Kharka  (4300m./5-6 hrs). Overnight at camp. Today the trek initially climbs fairly steeply through the lush forest on the west side of the Hinku Valley to reach the pass at Chhatara Teng La (4600m). The remainder of the day is spent on a well-defined trail descending on a lovely walk through the rhododendron forest. Along the way there are good views of the Mera peaks.

Day 18: Trek to Lukla. (2830m./ 6 to 7 hrs). Overnight at lodge. Two hours up from Thuli Kharka cross the final pass of the trek at Zatrwa La. After crossing the pass the vista opens to beautiful views of the Lukla valley and the stunning peaks of  Cho Oyu, and many others are a treat for the eyes and the camera.  From the pass, descend gently to Chutanga and then finish the trek with an easy walk to Lukla. On this final night we will  celebrate with the crew and group in traditional style, so be prepared to sing and dance.

Day 19: Fly back to Kathmandu (1300m./40 min flight). Overnight in Hotel. Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the hot showers and cold beer and then relax for the remainder of the day. Wildpath Adventure can also take you to nearby shops and help you find the best prices for your gifts and souvenirs. The company will host a fantastic celebration dinner tonight on the occasion of successfully completing your trip and climbing Mera Peak!

Day 20: Final Departure to your destination

Trip Planning

Expect the unexpected

Wildpath Adventure will make every effort to keep to the planned itinerary; however, as this is adventure travel in a remote mountain region, we simply cannot guarantee it. Changes to the itinerary can occur due to weather conditions, the health of a team member, or unexpected natural disasters. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please understand that these events are a possibility. For that reason, the climb leader has the authority to change or cancel any part of the trek if it is deemed necessary for safety reasons.

Allow additional time for this trip

We strongly recommend that you allow a few extra days at either end of your trip. In addition to the reasons mentioned above, flights to and from Lukla are notorious for being delayed anywhere from a few hours (common) to one week (rare) due to bad weather. This can occur even in the best trekking months.

If all goes well, you will then have extra days to enjoy in Nepal, taking in activities such as sightseeing near Kathmandu, river rafting, or perhaps relaxing at one of the nearby hilltop resorts.

In the event of bad weather, it may be possible to arrange a helicopter evacuation from Lukla, which can vary in cost from USD $300 to $3500, depending on the demand.
Why this route?

There are many possible routes to Mera Peak and three possible peaks. Wildpath Adventure has carefully selected a route which allows for gradual acclimatization and sufficient rest days, thus maximizing your chance for a successful summit.

Of the 3 peaks, North (6471m.), South (6064m.) and Central (6461m.), we feel that the Central Peak is the best choice for climbers with little or no technical experience. Currently the North Peak has extensive and massive crevasses and glacial movement, which are more suited to experienced mountaineers.

Group Size

Generally, the minimum group size is 2 people and the maximum is 12. It is possible to have a larger group, so please contact us if that is your desire.

The expedition team consists of one leader, 1 assistant leader for every 4 trekkers, 1 porter for every 2 trekkers and a cook. This number of staff safeguards the trek in the event that if one climber is unable to carry on, they can safely be escorted out, while the remainder of the group can carry on as planned.

The Trip Cost Includes:

Transportation:

• Return airfare Kathmandu/Lukla
• All hotel and airport transfers
• Private vehicle transportation

Accommodation:

• 2 nights pre-trip accommodation in 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
• 1 night post-trip accommodation in 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
• 1 night trip accommodation in lodge in Lukla
• Tented accommodation during trek, based on 2 people sharing

Meals:

• Breakfast in Kathmandu
• 3 meals per day during the trek
• Boiled water in the mountain areas
• Welcome and farewell dinner

Equipment:

• Group camping equipment, including tents and mattresses
• Team Medical Kit Bag
• Duffel bag, t-shirt, trekking map
• Rental of crampons, ice axes and harnesses
• Group climbing equipment

Other Costs:

• Salary for all expedition staff.
• All required permits
• Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
• Rescue and Travel arrangements
• All taxes

The Trip Cost Does Not Include:

Transportation:

• Airfare to and from Kathmandu
• Visitor’s Visa fee
• Excess baggage charges (max. allowed is 20 kg). Charge is approximately $2/kilo

Meals:

• Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
• Bottled beverages, including water
• Snacks such as energy bars, candy or chocolate

Equipment:

• Supplementary oxygen
• Personal climbing equipment, except as noted above

Other Costs:

• Travel and rescue insurance
• Laundry
• Porters over and above what is included in trip
• Tips for the expedition team

Health and Experience

Climbing Experience

One of the reasons that Mera Peak is so popular is that climbing it does not require previous mountaineering experience. While there are some steep slopes near the top, they are not technical in nature. It would be helpful to have some experience at glacier travel and traversing steep ice or snow, but it is not mandatory. Knowledge of how to use an ice axe and crampons is preferred, but there will be sufficient time at the Base Camp to practice using climbing gear such as ropes, ice axe, harness and crampons.

Fitness Level

In order to maximize your enjoyment of this climb, you will need to be in excellent physical condition and you will need to be prepared for tough conditions. Mera Peak trek consists of many days of walking for at least 5-6 hours, much of it over rugged terrain. There are also a few days of 8-10 hours and in particular, the summit day can stretch for more than 12 hours.

How can you tell if you are fit enough? A good rule of thumb is that participants should be able to comfortably walk or run about 12 km per day, carrying a small daypack weighing about 5kg. In addition to a high level of fitness we believe you must possess a willingness to tolerate difficult conditions, a flexible mindset, a sense of humor, and good health.
Any participants with pre-existing medical problems or conditions MUST make these known to Wildpath Adventure when booking. Medical and evacuation expenses are the responsibility of the participant and must be covered by your personal travel insurance. It is also important that you consult your doctor for vaccinations and other medical requirements for your trip. Wildpath Adventure reserves the right to require a medical certificate prior to booking your trip.

A Typical Day

While no two days are alike, the rhythm and flow of the trekking life will soon become second nature to you. Soon after dawn breaks, you will be awakened and offered a welcome cup of tea or coffee by your Sherpa. A nutritious and appetizing breakfast awaits you after you dress for the day. Then you will trek for 3 or more hours before stopping for lunch at a scenic spot – often near a river or stream. You will have plenty of time to relax and take photos as you enjoy the lunch meal.

Throughout the day we will take rest breaks as needed and there will always be time to stop and admire the flowers, the scenery, a village or just to soak in the pleasure of being on an adventure in Nepal.

After lunch, we will usually trek for another 2-3 hours before reaching the campsite. On arrival you will have time to rest and enjoy another welcome hot mug of tea, coffee, or one of the trail favorites, hot lemon. There is usually time to explore a village or Gompa or the surrounding neighborhood, write in your journal or simply relax. After a delicious dinner there will be a briefing on the next day’s program before you head off to the tent for a warm and snug sleep. You may be surprised to find that you are sleeping 10 to 12 hours per night, but that is normal on a strenuous trek and climb.

The summit day has a unique schedule. The crew will wake up around 1 am to prepare breakfast and pack lunches for the group. You will be woken up around 2-3 am and then have an early light breakfast. After packing and putting on the climbing gear, we will set off in the cold and clear night air for the journey to the Central Peak. We expect to reach the summit shortly after daybreak, but this will depend on the strength of the group. After summiting, we will return to the camp, where the crew will have prepared a hot and appetizing snack, before continuing the descent to the next camp.

Accommodation

Wildpath Adventure has chosen the best accommodation with your comfort and budget in mind. This includes 3 nights in Kathmandu at a 3-star Hotel, 1 night in a lodge in Lukla, and 14 nights in comfortable, two-person camping tents along the trek and climb.

All accommodation is based on twin sharing but we will provide a single supplement if there is an odd number of participants. If you simply prefer a single room, this is available by paying an additional single supplement.

Meals

One of the joys of camping treks is the wonderful food prepared for you at each meal. From the first tea of the morning to the last meal of the day, you will be treated to meals that are nutritious, healthy, fresh and suitable for a mountain expedition.

The experienced and trained cooks will provide meals from a variety of cuisines such as Nepali, Sherpa, Tibetan, Continental, Italian and Indian cuisine. Breakfast and dinner will be taken at camp, while lunch will be prepared at a suitable rest spot along the way.

Note: Before arriving in Nepal, please advise Wildpath Adventure if you have any special dietary requirements or restrictions such that we can accommodate your request.

What to Bring

The following list is a guideline of what you should bring with you for the trek and climb. Please note that clothing for Kathmandu or other locations is not included in this list. While you can bring everything from your home country, it is also possible to rent or purchase almost everything in Kathmandu. Most of the gear for sale in Kathmandu is manufactured locally and is thus considerably cheaper. However, it is also possible to buy brand name clothing and equipment at quality and prices that are comparable to home country prices.
At lower elevations on the trek it is likely to be very warm and the lightest of layers can be worn. However, at altitudes above 4000m it may be bitterly cold and windy, particularly after the sun disappears. The secret to staying warm and comfortable is to layer your clothing and to avoid cotton, as it becomes very cold when wet and it is slow to dry. Pack with a minimalist view, as the load limit per person for porters and on domestic flights is 15kg.

Treks and climbs in Nepal are tough on gear and clothing. We recommend that you bring well-used items that can stand a fair bit of abuse. Many people bring gear that can be given away at the end of the trek to the porters or guides.

Items below marked with an asterisk (*) are provided by Wildpath Adventure and included in the cost of the trip. However, we encourage you to bring your own equipment, as you will be more familiar with it. Please check with Wildpath Adventure if you are uncertain about what to bring – we will be happy to advise you.

During the trek the porters will be carrying most of your gear. On the trail you can expect to carry in your daypack item such as 1 to 2 liters of water, your camera, a jacket for rest stops, sunscreen, tissue paper, a route map and binoculars.

CLOTHING

• T-shirts – 2 or 3, long-sleeved and short-sleeved
• Hiking shorts or capris
• Lightweight long hiking pants
• Lightweight thermal inner layer – top and bottom
• Expedition weight thermal layer – top and bottom
• Fleece pants and jacket
• 2 pair inner liner socks
• 2 pair outer socks, wool, medium to heavy weight
• Shirt with collar

OUTERWEAR

All of the items listed here can be purchased in Kathmandu.

• Lightweight gloves
• Heavyweight gloves or mittens and waterproof shell outer
• Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
• Waterproof, breathable jacket
• Down jacket
• Waterproof, breathable shell pants
• Gaiters
• Warm hat or balaclava

FOOTWEAR

• Hiking boots (must be able to accept crampons if not bringing mountaineering boots)
• Camp shoes such as sneakers or Teva-like sandals
• Down booties (optional, but very nice at high altitude camp)
• Plastic mountaineering boots

CLIMBING GEAR

• Ice axe *
• Crampons *
• Harness *
• Helmet *

TEAM CLIMBING GEAR

• Snow bar *
• Rope *
• Ice Hammer *
• Ice Screw *
• Tape Slings *
• Screwgate *
• Karabiners (2 locking, 2 unlocking) *
• Descender/Abseil Device *

MISCELLANEOUS

• Camera and extra battery and card
• Sun hat or bandana
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• 4 season sleeping bag (rated to -15 to -20 degree centigrade. Down is preferable)
• Sleeping bag liner (optional, but very useful)
• Trekking Bags/Duffel bag *
• Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
• Small lock
• Basic First Aid Kit (Wildpath Adventure will also carry a team First Aid kit)
• Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
• Trekking poles
• Water bottles (2) or camel back
• Ear Plugs
• Sewing and repair kit
• Sarong (optional, but very useful when washing)
• Energy bars, chocolate, candy

TOILETRIES

All of the items listed here can be purchased in Kathmandu

• Sunscreen with high UV protection
• Lip balm for altitude (e.g. Labazan)
• Face and body moisturizer
• 1 medium sized quick drying towel
• Tooth brush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
• Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
• Deodorant
• Nail clippers
• Feminine hygiene products
• Small mirror
• Wet wipes
• Toilet tissue
• Ant- bacterial hands wash

FIRST AID AND MEDICAL SUPPLIES

All of the items listed here can be purchased in Kathmandu; however you may prefer to bring trusted brands from home. Note also that Wildpath Adventure will carry an extensive first aid and medical kit, so please bring the minimum required. There are many good books and websites which carry extensive lists of recommended drugs and medical supplies. We suggest that you review this material before making any purchases.

• Plasters/Band aids
• Moleskin
• General-purpose antibiotic such as Cipro
• Headache medicine – (not Codein-based)
• Anti-inflammatory pills
• Antibiotic cream
• Eye drops
• Rehydration salts such as ORS
• Multi-vitamins
• Throat lozenges
• Anti-diarrheal medicine
• Anti-constipation medicine

AND IF YOUR PACK IS STILL LIGHT:

• Binoculars
• Journal
• IPOD (note that recharging may not always be possible)
• Reading material
• Travel game or cards
• Photos from home

Acclimatization

Any trek to high altitude carries with it the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness, or AMS. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness, generally caused by going up too fast. The higher the altitude, the less oxygen there is in the air. For example, at the summit of Mera Peak there is only half the oxygen that there is available at sea level.

Your body needs many days to adapt to this less-oxygen environment. Our itinerary is planned to allow sufficient time for acclimatization, by going up slowly and including two acclimatization days. It is not uncommon to experience mild headaches, loss of appetite or nausea when ascending, but these symptoms usually disappear with rest...

Although your appetite may diminish as you climb, it is very important to eat enough to maintain a good energy level. Similarly it is extremely important to drink sufficient water to stay hydrated. The team leader will advise you on what is sufficient food and water and we ask that you follow his advice.

We also advise anyone with known heart, lungs or blood diseases to consult their doctor before traveling. Our itineraries are designed to try to prevent AMS as much as possible, but it is important to remember that some people are more vulnerable than others.

Our team will check very carefully to determine if anyone has a serious problem. If anyone is showing signs of AMS, they will not be permitted to climb further and will be required to descend to a safe altitude with a member of the team. If the symptoms disappear at the lower altitude, the person may be permitted to rejoin the climb after a suitable rest period.

Travel Insurance

All participants in a Wildpath Adventure or climb must have travel insurance. This will protect you against the risk of comprehensive expenses which may result due to medical emergencies or accidents. This insurance should include air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and treatment costs. Please be noted that we don't arrange or sell insurance and it is best to arrange this in your home country.

Your Wildpath Adventure Team

At Wildpath Adventure we want your experience to be memorable for all the right reasons. Your success is our success. For that reason we have selected a crew that is skilled, knowledgeable, experienced, courteous, helpful and fun. The trek and climb leader and the crew members will ensure that your days in the mountain run smoothly and that all you have to worry about is not missing that “perfect shot of the mountain”.

Your trip will be led by a professional leader who has many years of experience at climbing and trekking in Nepal and is very knowledgeable about the culture, nature, history and geography of Nepal. He will also have a very good command of the English language. The crew, who will all have adequate knowledgeable about the same subjects and be skilled and experienced in their particular area of responsibility, will probably not speak English as fluently as the guide.

The trek and climbing leaders of Wildpath Adventure have undergone the following training to ensure that they are current and up to the highest standards available for Nepali touring and trekking companies.

• Trekking Guide Training (Nepal Government's Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation: Department of Hotel Management and Tourism Training)
• Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project training (KEEP):
  • Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  • English Language
  • Conservation and Biodiversity
• Eco Trekking Workshop (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal (TAAN)).
• Rock climbing, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (Nepal Mountaineering Association)