Mera Peak Expediiton

You'll be welcomed at the airport by a representative from Altitude Experts Trips & Expedition who will escort you to the hotel room, booked in advance for you.  
You'll be staying in Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu. Thamel is bounded by outdoor shops (ranging from local to brand name shops such as Mountain Hardwear, The North Face, and Sherpa Gear), hotels, bar & restaurants, spas, a few pharmacies and music shops. In the evening, you will be treated to a delightful welcome dinner at a top-notch restaurant in Kathmandu.  

After a delectable breakfast, set out on a refreshing sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's ancient city. A licensed and expert tour guide will be at your service, and a comfortable private vehicle will be at your disposal.

The day's itinerary includes visits to the grand Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, the iconic Swambhunath Stupa, also known as the monkey temple, the historical Kathmandu Durbar Square with its ancient King's palace, and the enlightening Narayanhiti King's palace Museum.

In Afternoon, Our experienced mountain guide team will visit your hotel to inspect all the climbing gear we suggested for your expedition. We'll categorize and pack the gear into two separate duffle bags—one for the trek and the other directly destined for the basecamp. In the evening, you'll have the flexibility to indulge in any last-minute shopping or preparations. At the same time, you have a final chance to check up on your equipment and pack up the baggage.   

After having breakfast, you will be escorted to the domestic terminal from which you will fly on a 30-minute flight by way of a twin-otter plane to the Lukla airstrip with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, dense jungles, hills, terrain, and villages. Our staff will be waiting for you at the airport and will take you to the hotel for short management of luggage. 

(Due to new regulations, the flights to Lukla may likely operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap District. An early morning start requires waking up at 2 am to embark on a four-hour drive from Kathmandu to Manthali. From there, you'll take a breathtaking 20-minute flight to Lukla.) 

The journey begins on foot after arriving at Lukla, a bustling gateway to the Everest region. Lukla bazaar greets us with its vibrant atmosphere, offering a mix of cozy lodges, tea houses, cafés, and trekking shops, where trekkers and climbers alike gather to prepare for their adventures. The lively streets of Lukla, with their warm hospitality and mountain charm, set the tone for the incredible journey ahead.

Descending slightly from Lukla, we soon reach Surke village, a picturesque settlement nestled in the foothills of the region. From here, our trail connects to the Nim Dorjee Memorial Tourism Road, a path dedicated to fostering sustainable tourism in the area. For those seeking a unique experience, an off-road jeep ride is available along portions of this scenic route, providing a thrilling glimpse of the rugged terrain and remote mountain life.

Continuing on foot, we traverse through terraced fields, dense rhododendron forests, and tranquil landscapes dotted with small hamlets. After approximately four hours of trekking, we arrive at the charming Paiyan village (also known as Chutok), a hidden gem in the lower Solukhumbu region. This peaceful village is home to a handful of local lodges, a community school, and a small health post, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, Paiyan provides an excellent spot to rest and soak in the serenity of the Himalayan foothills before continuing our adventure toward Mera Peak.

The trek from Paiya to Panguam is a 5 to 6-hour journey filled with captivating natural beauty and cultural immersion, reaching an altitude of 2,850 meters above sea level. After enjoying a hearty breakfast in Paiya, the trail descends gently, leading to a small wooden bridge that marks the next phase of your adventure. From this point, the trail becomes slippery as you approach Kari La Pass, so careful footing is essential. Once past the pass, the route takes you through enchanting forests of rhododendron and bamboo, creating a serene and shaded atmosphere for trekkers.

Midway through the trek, you pause for lunch in a quaint village, recharging your energy for the journey ahead. As the trail narrows, breathtaking vistas of Dudh Kund Himal, the Dudh Koshi River, and the valley below come into view, offering perfect moments to capture on camera. These mesmerizing landscapes provide a sense of connection with the rugged beauty of the Solukhumbu region.

Eventually, you arrive at Panguam, a charming settlement where locals are engaged in farming and trading. The village provides an excellent opportunity to explore and connect with the warm and welcoming community. Engage with the locals, who are eager to share fascinating stories of their lives and the adventurous trails they’ve traversed. With Altitude Experts’ expert guidance and commitment to cultural immersion, this leg of your journey ensures a memorable blend of natural wonders and authentic Himalayan experiences, setting the tone for the adventure that lies ahead.

The trek from Panguam to Nagindingma is a scenic 4 to 5-hour journey that takes you to an altitude of 2,650 meters. After breakfast, you set off from Panguam, descending along a mountainous trail that meanders through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests. Along the way, you pass numerous mani walls, intricately carved stone structures that reflect the spiritual heritage of the region, before crossing the Panguam La Pass.

Once over the pass, the trail ascends steadily as you head north, traversing a series of hills, ridges, and teahouses. After some time, the route begins to descend, and you pause at a nearby village for a well-deserved lunch. As the trek resumes, the scenery becomes even more rewarding, with awe-inspiring views of Mera Peak’s south face and the majestic Maulekh Peak dominating the horizon.

Continuing on, the trail zigzags through enchanting pine and rhododendron forests before dropping sharply to Peseng Kharka Kola, where you cross a serene river. The path then leads uphill to Peseng Kharka Danda, followed by a descent to the Ningsow River, which you cross via a wooden bridge. A short climb further brings you to Nagindingma, a charming and peaceful village.

Upon arrival, you can rest and soak in the tranquility of the village, or explore its surroundings to capture the essence of this hidden gem. End your day with a stunning view of the sunset over the eastern Himalayas, a fitting reward for a day of adventure guided by Altitude Experts.

The trek from Nagindingma to Cholem Kharka is a 4 to 5-hour journey that takes you to an altitude of 3,350 meters, with physically demanding trails that test your endurance. After breakfast, you leave the serene village of Nagindingma and begin your ascent. The initial climb is followed by a brief descent, but the trail soon becomes a steady uphill climb along rocky paths, leading you to Ramailo Danda.

Ramailo Danda rewards your efforts with breathtaking views of Mera Peak, Salpa, and other towering Himalayan giants. This picturesque spot is the perfect place to pause for lunch, soaking in the majestic scenery before continuing your journey.

The trail from here alternates between ascents and descents, eventually bringing you to Surke La Pass, where you are greeted by more stunning landscapes. Descending from the pass, you enter a vibrant rhododendron forest, known for its natural beauty and vibrant blooms during the trekking season. As you progress further, the trail takes you into the Makalu Barun National Park, where dense bamboo forests add an untouched wilderness charm to the trek.

Finally, you arrive at Cholem Kharka, a quaint settlement surrounded by pristine nature. The village offers comfortable lodging and warm hospitality, making it an ideal spot to rest and rejuvenate. Take some time to explore the village, interact with the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this high-altitude haven. With Altitude Experts ensuring a seamless experience, this leg of the trek showcases the raw beauty and cultural richness of the Himalayas.

The journey to Khola Kharka, situated at an altitude of 3,930 meters, is a relatively short yet captivating trek that takes 3 to 4 hours. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you leave Cholem Kharka and embark on a trail that leads into the lush Pasang Lhamu route, known for its rich biodiversity, including the elusive red panda and other fascinating wildlife.

The trek begins with an uphill climb on the western side of the Hinku Valley, passing through dense forests of pines and oaks. As you ascend, the trail rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, offering a perfect setting to pause and enjoy lunch amidst nature's splendor.

Continuing the journey, the trail descends slightly, leading you to the banks of cascading rivers and into a vibrant rhododendron forest. The walk through green meadows and across a quaint wooden bridge over a clear stream adds a serene charm to the trek.

The final leg involves a gentle ascent through enchanting bamboo and pine forests. After about an hour, you reach Khola Kharka, a picturesque Sherpa settlement. This small yet welcoming village offers breathtaking views of rolling hills adorned with rhododendrons, creating a tranquil and inspiring atmosphere. With Altitude Experts ensuring your comfort and safety, this section of the trek is as enriching as it is scenic, providing a harmonious blend of adventure and natural beauty

The journey to Kothe, situated at an altitude of 4,180 meters, takes approximately 5 to 7 hours and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. The day begins early with the harmonious chirping of birds, setting a refreshing tone as you enjoy a hearty breakfast before departing from Khola Kharka.

The trail starts with a relatively straight path, offering breathtaking views of Mera Peak as a constant companion. Gradually, you descend through picturesque trails until reaching the Majang Khola, where you cross over into a serene forest of oak and juniper via a narrow path. The cool breeze and the rich aroma of the forest accompany you as you trek toward Trashing Dingman, where you pause to enjoy a well-deserved lunch amidst tranquil surroundings.

Post-lunch, the route takes you through Thakthor, eventually leading to Inkhu Khola, where you walk along the river ridge. The trail here is a mix of ascents and descents, keeping the journey dynamic and engaging. As you progress, the majestic landscapes become even more captivating, with the Himalayas serving as a stunning backdrop.

Finally, you arrive at Kothe, a charming village and a key entry point for Mera Peak expeditions. The settlement greets you with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks, marking a memorable conclusion to the day’s trek. With Altitude Experts ensuring a seamless and enriching experience, this leg of the journey prepares you for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

On this day, after a week of continuous trekking, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest day in Kothe. While it offers a break from the physical exertion of the previous days, it’s not a day of complete inactivity. In the morning, we’ll embark on a short hike towards Kothe Ri, where we aim to gain an additional 400 meters in elevation. This hike provides an excellent opportunity to acclimatize while enjoying stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

After returning to Kothe, you’ll have ample time to rest and recover. The village itself offers a peaceful atmosphere, and you can take the opportunity to explore local Buddhist religious sites scattered around the area. These sacred locations add a cultural and spiritual dimension to the rest day, allowing you to connect with the traditions of the region. Whether visiting monasteries or simply enjoying the serene environment, this day serves as both a restorative break and a chance to absorb the local culture before continuing your Mera Peak adventure.

Today’s trek from Kothe to Thaknak is a relatively short yet rewarding journey, lasting 3 to 4 hours. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we begin our trek along the ridge of Hinku Khola, with the majestic Mera Peak towering above us, providing a constant source of inspiration as we walk. We continue the journey, passing through picturesque landscapes until we reach Gondishung.

Gondishung is a summer settlement located on the western side of Hinku Drangka, offering beautiful riverside views. Here, we pause for lunch in one of the local lodges, soaking in the serene environment and replenishing ourselves before continuing on the trail.

After lunch, we move forward, passing an ancient gompa, which has stood for over 200 years, nestled at the foot of a large rock. This sacred site offers a moment of reflection, and we’ll take time to offer prayers for a successful summit as we continue on our way.

As we leave the gompa, the trail takes us past a large rock etched with an image of Mera Peak and its climbing route, providing a powerful reminder of the adventure ahead. The path ascends steadily, crossing rocky trails and landslide areas, with each step bringing us closer to the stunning mountain views.

The ridge offers incredible views of Mera Peak and Kusum Kanguru, allowing us to truly appreciate the grandeur of the Himalayas. After enjoying these breathtaking sights, we continue uphill for a bit longer, eventually reaching Thaknak.

Thaknak is a small summer grazing village, home to yaks and other animals, and features charming antique shops and lodges. As the day winds down, enjoy the evening with stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, making this night at Thaknak a memorable one.

Today’s trek is relatively short, with a duration of 2 to 4 hours, taking you from Thaknak to Khare. After breakfast, you begin by following the side moraine of the Dig Glacier, making your way along a scenic trail. The path gradually opens up, leading to Dig Kharka, a vast pasture offering spectacular views of the north Hinku Glacier and Charpate Himal.

The trail continues upward through moraine fields, as you ascend toward the mouth of Shar Glaciers and Hinku Nup. The climb becomes steeper, but the magnificent views along the way make every step worthwhile. As you make your way through this stunning landscape, you will be surrounded by snow-capped peaks, rugged terrain, and glaciers, creating a truly immersive Himalayan experience.

After some challenging uphill sections, you will arrive at Khare, which sits in a stunning location with a close-up view of the north face of Mera Peak dominating the skyline. This peaceful village offers an opportunity to rest and take in the incredible views.

After settling in, enjoy a well-deserved lunch, and take the time to prepare your climbing gear. In the afternoon, you'll have the chance to do a short acclimatization climb around the village, helping your body adjust to the altitude and preparing you for the ascent ahead.

Today is dedicated to rest and acclimatization, providing you with a valuable opportunity to prepare both physically and mentally for the Mera Peak climb. This day is crucial to help you adjust to the high-altitude environment and get ready for the technical challenges ahead.

The Altitude Experts Trips & Expedition team has arranged a special acclimatization session that includes basic technical training. The training will cover essential climbing skills, such as using crampons, ice axes, and ascender and descender devices, as well as mastering rope techniques and carabiner usage. These skills are key to your success on the summit and will be demonstrated by experienced guides who will also guide you in practicing these techniques.

After the training, if time permits, you can take a hike to a nearby hill or village to further acclimatize by gaining some elevation. The surrounding Khare area offers incredible views, with stunning vistas of valleys and peaks, including Mera Peak. This short hike will help enhance your acclimatization while allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Later, you’ll have time to explore the village and its surroundings, interacting with the locals and experiencing the traditional Himalayan lifestyle. The peaceful village setting offers plenty of opportunities for short walks and discovering the charm of local culture, all while keeping the magnificent view of Mera Peak in sight.

This rest day is not only a break but also an essential part of your climb preparation, allowing you to settle into the environment and gain the necessary skills for your upcoming adventure with Altitude Experts Trips & Expedition.

After breakfast, you resume your trek towards Mera Base Camp, beginning with a steep climb through a boulder-strewn path leading to Mera La at 5400 meters. From there, the climb continues up to Mera Glacier, where the trail becomes steeper. The first part of the hike is relatively gentle, but as you approach the glacier, the terrain becomes more challenging. It’s important to pace yourself and carefully place each step, as you navigate the landslide-prone sections. Once you reach the glacier, you’ll put on your crampons and walk across the vast, icy expanse, marking one of the most memorable moments of the trek. Continuing onward, you’ll descend through the northern side glacier and moraine to reach Mera Base Camp.

From Base Camp, you continue your ascent towards Mera High Camp. You climb back up to the glacier and move across snow slopes before encountering crevasses that require careful navigation. The terrain becomes rocky as you climb higher, and you’ll gradually make your way toward High Camp. During the ascent, take time to look back and enjoy the stunning views of towering peaks like Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, and Everest. High Camp is tucked away between the glacier and rocky outcrops, offering a unique and isolated location. It provides breathtaking views of Chamlang, Mera Peak, and the Everest massif.

Upon arrival at High Camp, you’ll have lunch and prepare you for the climb ahead. As the day ends, take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, appreciating the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas before settling in for the night, ready to tackle the final stages of the journey.

Today is the culmination of your journey as you make your ascent to the summit of Mera Peak. The climb begins early in the morning, around 2 am, to take advantage of the weather conditions. After a hearty breakfast, you gear up with ropes and crampons, ready for the once-in-a-lifetime journey. The initial stages of the climb are on steep terrain, so careful steps are essential. As you progress, you’ll notice the central summit flanked by two ridges above the vast glacier, marking your path forward.

The ascent continues with a slow and steady pace, navigating the snowfields while avoiding crevasses. You will then swing to the east-hand ridge before descending towards the main summit ridge. Mera Peak has three summits, but your goal is to reach the highest one. A short, steep climb through the snow slope leads you to the final ascent. The last few meters require significant effort, as you ascend slowly in the cold, windy climate. As you reach the summit, the first rays of sunlight will enhance the breathtaking views.

From the summit of Mera Peak, you are greeted by awe-inspiring views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The panoramic vista includes Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, Lhotse, Kangchenjunga, Nuptse, Chamlang, Baruntse, Kangtega, and Ama Dablam. After savoring the beauty of the summit and the sun-kissed peaks, you will spend some time appreciating the moment before beginning your descent back to High Camp.

Upon returning to High Camp, you will have lunch and rest for a while. Once you’ve rested, you begin your long descent back to Khare. Following the same trail, you came up on, you’ll arrive back at Khare after a long and exhilarating day. By the end of the trek, you’re sure to be tired but filled with accomplishment. After a well-deserved bath and some relaxation, you can rest your body for the next day's journey, proud of your achievement.

This day is reserved for any unexpected changes to the schedule due to natural hazards, such as weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. If everything goes according to plan, you can also use this day as a complete rest day after summiting Mera Peak, allowing your body to recover and adjust before the final leg of the journey. This extra buffer ensures flexibility in your itinerary and guarantees that your safety and well-being are the top priority.

The journey is far from over, and today, you will make your way back to Kothe from Khare. After an early breakfast, you’ll begin the trek, retracing your steps along the rugged trails, this time descending toward Kothe. Although the trek is long and can be tiring, the stunning views of nature along the way will keep you motivated.

The path is rocky and challenging, much like the way up, but this time you’re moving downhill. As you descend, you’ll pass glaciers, moraine, traditional villages, and pastoral lands, which offer glimpses of the region’s charm and rugged beauty. The scenery is breathtaking, making the exhaustion worth it as you head toward Thaknak.

From Thaknak, it’s another 3 to 4 hours of walking before reaching Kothe. Although it’s a long and tiring day of downhill trekking, take time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you. Once you arrive at Kothe, you’ll be relieved to rest after the challenging descent. Enjoy some well-deserved downtime in your rooms, as there’s still more to explore in the days ahead.

On your way back, you’ll take a new route, which is the shortest path to reach Lukla. After breakfast, you begin your trek toward Thuli Kharka, a beautiful village nestled in the region. The journey starts with a steady uphill climb through a dense forest of rhododendrons, offering a serene atmosphere as you make your way through the vibrant greenery.

As you cross a few ridges, you’ll come across a small village where you can stop to rest. From here, the trek continues along the riverbanks, and you’ll take a break for lunch in one of the local lodges, enjoying the surroundings. Later, you descend the trails, and after a slight ascent, you arrive at Thuli Kharka. After a day filled with stunning views and peaceful surroundings, you’ll settle in for the night at Thuli Kharka.

Today marks the final leg of your journey as you trek from Thuli kharka to Lukla. It's a long and rewarding day, so after a hearty breakfast, you begin by ascending toward Chatra-la pass for a couple hours and start descending the trails towards Lukla. Along the way, you’ll pass through several villages, cross streams, and walk through lush forest paths, each step bringing you closer to your destination.

The trek is beautiful but can be challenging, so be sure to pace yourself and take in the natural beauty around you. After several hours of walking, you'll finally arrive in Lukla, your final stop in the Everest region. This is your last chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains, so take a moment to appreciate the stunning surroundings and cherish the memories you've made during your trek.

Once in Lukla, you can rest and reflect on your incredible journey before preparing for your flight back.

After completing your trek, you’ll either take a 35-45minute flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying a scenic aerial view of the mountains one last time. However, due to the new civil aviation rules in Nepal, it's also possible that you may have to fly into Manthali Airport instead of Lukla. If that’s the case, you’ll then embark on a 5-hour scenic drive back to Kathmandu.

While the flight to Manthali might take a little longer and the road journey can be tiring, it offers a chance to witness the rural beauty of Nepal’s landscapes during the drive, providing a unique experience as you make your way back to Kathmandu. Either way, this journey marks the conclusion of your memorable Everest region trek.

Upon reaching Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and ensure your safe transfer to the international airport for your onward journey. We hope your adventure in the Everest region was unforgettable, and we wish you a pleasant flight back home. Thank you for choosing Altitude Experts Trips & Expeditions!