Mera and Island Peak Climbing
Date of Departure
Trip Information
Duration
22 days
Max Altitude
6476
Difficulty
Difficult
Starts from
Kathmandu
Trips Ends at
Kathmandu
Activity
Climb two splendid peaks of the Nepal Himalayas - Island and Mera
Embrace the thrilling trip to and from Lukla
Explore Namche Bazaar of the Everest Region
Splendid views of Mount Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8,500 m), Makalu (8,478 m), Nuptse (7,880 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Baruntse (7,129 m)
Crossing the thrilling Amphu Lapcha Pass (5,780 m)
Visit the holy lake at almost 5000 meters, Seto Pokhari
Trekking through the stunning and secluded Hinku Valley
Peek into the traditions, way of life, and hospitality of the well-known "Sherpa" people
Experience the rhododendron, magnolia, birch, and pine forests' luxuriant greenery
Mera and Island Peak Climbing Overview
Mera Peak and Island Peak Climb via Amphi Laptsa Pass is one of the most thrilling adventures in Nepal that involves two well-known summits over 6000 meters and one challenging high pass named Amphu Laptsa Pass. This incredible high-altitude journey is jam-packed with mountains and wilderness, valleys, forests, and grasslands, giving you a true mountaineering adventure.
Though Mera and Island Peak seem close to each other on a map, they are separated by a chain of mountains separating the Khumbu Valley and Hinku. The journey also takes you through the most remote and beautiful region of Nepal.
The fascinating Mera Peak is known as the “highest trekking peak in Nepal”. Climbing Mera Peak does not require any prior climbing experience and is a less technically challenging peak climb. Mera Peak provides one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of five 8,000-meter summits, including the peaks of Cho-Oyu, Ama Dablam, and Kangtega to the west, Chamlang, Kanchanjunga, Makalu, and Baruntse to the east, Lhotse in the south face, and the Nuptse ridge and Everest in the north.
Island Peak is also known as Imja Tse and offers an amazing climbing experience. The Island Peak Climb is somewhat more difficult than Mera Peak climbing, requiring some mountaineering skills and proper gear, such as ladders and rope to climb. The top of the Island peak offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of many of the highest mountains in the world such as Makalu (8475m) in the east, Baruntse, and Ama Dablam in the south, and Nuptse (7,879m), Lhotse (8,501m), Lhotse Middle Peak (8,410m), and Lhotse Shar (8,383m) to the north.
You will surely feel like being in paradise as the trail from here takes you through the enchanting Hinku Valley toward the Imja Valley via one of the highest Himalayan Passes, Amphu Laptsa Pass at 5780 meters, which offers a wonderful trekking experience and stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Island, and other significant peaks.
Himalayan Trekkers have beautifully designed this crucial itinerary with proper rest days for unlocking the unrefined beauty of these mountainous regions, and also provide you with practice sessions for your successful venture.
Mera and Island Peak Climbing Highlights
Climb two splendid peaks of the Nepal Himalayas - Island and Mera
Embrace the thrilling trip to and from Lukla
Explore Namche Bazaar of the Everest Region
Splendid views of Mount Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8,500 m), Makalu (8,478 m), Nuptse (7,880 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Baruntse (7,129 m)
Crossing the thrilling Amphu Lapcha Pass (5,780 m)
Visit the holy lake at almost 5000 meters, Seto Pokhari
Trekking through the stunning and secluded Hinku Valley
Peek into the traditions, way of life, and hospitality of the well-known "Sherpa" people
Experience the rhododendron, magnolia, birch, and pine forests' luxuriant greenery
How Difficult is the Mera and Island Peak Climb?
Mera Peak is the tallest trekking peak in Nepal, but it does not require specialized mountaineering abilities. But a climber must be physically fit and mentally prepared to handle challenging circumstances at a high altitude in order to make it to the top.
Island Peak, on the other hand, calls for previous knowledge of mountaineering. Gear such as mountaineering boots, crampons, abseiling, glacier hiking, crossing ladders, ice axes, and climbing fixed ropes are essential to make the summit of Island Peak. Island Peak Climbing is also a fantastic opportunity for ice and rock climbing.
As this journey is a combination of both climbs, climbers need to have knowledge regarding mountaineering skills, along with a lot of effort and determination. In addition, the challenging Amphu Laptsa Pass at 5,780 meters can also make the journey a little bit strenuous.
Not only the distance and terrains, but the weather conditions of the peaks also play a pivotal role in the difficulty. Though the mountain weather is ever-changing and unpredictable, learning about the right time to do the climb is essential.
Also, Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) can be a threat during this Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing journey, as this journey takes you above 6,000 meters in altitude. But, we can take precautions beforehand by taking required acclimatization, hydrating, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, etc.
You can also carry Diamox or other prescribed AMS medications. In case you notice any symptoms of this illness, you are requested to inform your guide as soon as possible, as they are experienced with these subjects.
What is the best time to do the Mera and Island Peak Climb?
When attempting to climb a peak, climbers should be aware of the weather and conditions of the route and the peaks. When it is possible to do the Mera and Island Peak Climbing any time of the year with proper preparations, spring and autumn are considered the shoulder seasons.
Spring in Nepal starts in March and lasts till May, and the trekking route offers breathtaking views of mountains, dense forests, vibrant meadows, and blooming rhododendrons during this season. The weather is warm and pleasant, with a clear view of the Himalayas and a beautiful blue sky, but the nights could be cold, and temperatures could get below the freezing point when you are above 4,000 meters.
Autumn is by far the most popular and best season for any climbing journey, including Mera and Island Peak climbs, because it is drier than other seasons, the weather is consistent, the sky is completely clear, and the most breathtaking views are made possible.
The summer monsoon is the least favorable time to climb because of the intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and fog. The trail also becomes slick and muddy, and the views are also obscured by the daylong infiltration of fog and mist. In addition, avalanches and landslides can occasionally make the trip dangerous. But, with proper guidance, gear, an experienced guide, and climbers’ patience and endurance, the climb can be made possible. You can marvel at the beauty of the region's rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and streams during this time of the year.
Winter is also not advised for Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing and crossing the Amphu Laptsa Pass because, firstly, the wintertime temperature drops dramatically. Days grow shorter, and it gets darker earlier. The ice and snow conditions and the temporary shutdown of the lodges and teahouses might increase the challenge. But again, if you want more thrills and challenges, you can attempt climbing this season too with proper preparation.
Permits to do Mera and Island Peak Climb via Amphu Laptsa Pass
Climbers are required to obtain the following permits to climb Mera Peak and Island Peak
1. NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association) Permit
2. Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit
3. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
4. Local Area Permit (Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance permit)
All these permits are included in the package cost.
Itinerary Detail
What is Included / Not Included
- Domestic (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu) Airfare and taxes as per itinerary
- All Guest houses, Lodge, and Tented Accommodation during the Trek and Climb
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunches & Dinner with Tea/Coffee) During the Trek & Climb
- An Experienced GOVT licensed Trekking/Climbing Guide & required No. of Sherpa Porters
- All wages, allowances, insurance, medical, and equipment for supporting crew
- Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park Fees
- TIMS fees & Local Province (Municipality/Village) Fees
- Peak Climbing fees (Royalty)
- Climbing & Camping Equipment as per itinerary/necessary
- Garbage fees / a comprehensive medical kit
- All applicable Government and local taxes
Himalayan Trekkers offers the best available 3 Star standard category accommodations on a twin/double sharing basis in Kathmandu. However, you have a selection of 3 to 4-star hotels, basic lodges, and even hostels. You can also opt. for the single supplementary at an additional cost.
When in the Himalayas, your lodgings will be trekking teahouses with basic amenities. The rooms will be provided on twin sharing basis with a bed, mattress, blanket, and pillow as a bare minimum.
You might have to share the bathroom and toilets in the higher places. And lastly, we provide tented camp accommodations where there is no availability of trekking lodges and teahouses.
Meals during the climb to Mera Peak and Island Peak
All three meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) except the lunches and dinners in Kathmandu will be provided by Himalayan Trekkers because Kathmandu has many options for food and drink.
Your options are more limited after Lukla. The Nepali staple meal, Dal-Bhat-Tarkari (lentils, steamed rice, seasonal vegetables), is the most popular, along with Noodles, dumplings, flatbreads, potatoes, fried bread, mushroom soup, butter tea, etc.
During the climbing journey, you will be served freshly prepared meals by our tent cooks.
FAQ
1. What are the elevations of the Mera and Island peaks?
1. What are the elevations of the Mera and Island peaks?
The heights of Mera Peak and Island Peak are 6,461 meters and 6,189 meters above sea level respectively.
2. Are Mera Peak and Island Peak technical climbs?
2. Are Mera Peak and Island Peak technical climbs?
Mera Peak and Island Peak are not considered technical climbing peaks but some portions can be fairly difficult for beginners as you will also be crossing Amphu Laptsa Pass. Hence, proper training & preparation are required before the climb.
3. Will I get altitude sickness during the Mera Peak and Island peak climb?
3. Will I get altitude sickness during the Mera Peak and Island peak climb?
Anyone can be an altitude sickness victim despite age, gender, stamina, or experience when you are above 3000 meters altitude. As Mera and Island Peak are higher than 6000 meters, there is a high chance of AMS but you can prevent them by taking needed acclimatization, moving steadily, keeping yourself hydrated, getting enough sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet. You can also carry AMS medications such as Diamox.
4. Do climbers need prior experience for Mera and Island peak climb?
4. Do climbers need prior experience for Mera and Island peak climb?
Though prior climbing experience is not mandatory for Mera and Island Peak Climbing, it is better to engage in some physical activities to increase your stamina and it is much better if you have trekking experience in the high Himalayas.
5. Do I need travel insurance essential for the Mera and Island peak climb?
5. Do I need travel insurance essential for the Mera and Island peak climb?
Climbers need to purchase travel insurance covering emergency rescue when making the ascent to any of the peaks that including the Mera Peak and Island Peaks. In case of an emergency, your travel insurance will pay for your helicopter rescue or any other medical care.
6. What is the minimum age requirement for the Mera and Island peak climb?
6. What is the minimum age requirement for the Mera and Island peak climb?
According to the regulations established by the Government of Nepal, climbers must be 18 years of age or older to be qualified for the climb. So, if you are under the age of 18, you are not permitted to go on this peak-climbing expedition
