Mera Peak Climbing Overview
Mera Peak Climbing is one of the most famous peak-climbing journeys in Nepal. Mera Peak at 6,476 meters in the Everest Region is the highest yet straightforward trekking peak that is not on the technical side of Peak Climbing. Climbing Mera Peak is taken as practice or basic preparation and acclimatizing a bit to the higher altitude before attempting Mount Everest or other eight-thousanders.
The Mera Peak trail is an isolated off-the-beaten-path that goes through the Hinku Valley. The first climbers of Mount Everest, Tenzing Norway Sherpa, and Sir Edmund Hillary, initiated the practice of ascending Mera peak both before and after the Everest expedition. Since then, there has been constant excitement about its popularity, which has been rising over time.
Our 17-day climb to Mera Peak is an excellent option for beginners and those with moderate experience. Although the peak is at more than 6000 heights, climbing and technical skills are not mandatory, and we assure you that it is possible with proper guidance.
We begin by sightseeing the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu such as the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath Stupa. Our climbing journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and heads towards Chhuthang, east of Lukla – through the forest. The next few days we head to Thuli Kharka followed by Kothe and Thangnak. Then after crossing several suspension bridges, we reach Khare, acclimatizing in between and preparing our mindset. Next, we head to Mera High Camp and finally attempt the summit of Mera Peak and return back.
Mera Peak Climbing Highlights
- The summit of the highest trekking peak in Nepal, Mera Peak at 6476 meters.
- Captivating views of the eight-thousanders such as Mt. Everest (8,848 meters), Mt. Lhotse (8516 meters), and Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 meters) along with many other smaller ones.
- Experience walking through the Himalayan wilderness and high passes
- Mountainous views across ancient monasteries, temples, and beautiful lakes
- The unique Sherpa culture, tradition, lifestyle, and hospitality
- Beautiful Sherpa settlements, Tibetan-Buddhism Monasteries, Chortens, and Mani Walls
Mera Peak Climbing Difficulty
The Alpine Grading System rates Mera Peak Climbing as Alpine Grade PD (slightly difficult) due to some technical sections and glacier climbing. However, it is not as challenging as the mountain expeditions. There are a few factors that make the Mera Peak Climbing difficult.
There are three routes to Mera Peak Climbing. The difficulty level differs from the routes. This package is designed with the shortest and the most difficult route that starts straight from Zatr La Pass once we land in Lukla. This route includes rough terrains, along glaciers, and crevasses which is fit only for experienced trekkers.
The greatest challenge of ascending Mera Peak is its high altitude. If given access to a carefully planned route, suitable acclimatization, a contingency day, and training, the danger associated with the climb can be reduced. You should follow a slow, deliberate approach up the mountain to give your body more time to adjust to the rising altitude. It's also crucial to stay warm, dry, hydrated, and well-fed to be in the best condition on summit day.
Best Time to do Mera Peak Climbing
Although Mera Peak Climbing is possible throughout the year, we advise starting your journey in the spring or fall when the beauty of this walk is at its most breathtaking.
Spring in the Mera Peak region starts in late March and lasts till early May when the trekking trails offer some of the most beautiful views of the year of the mountains, thick forests, vibrant meadows, and flowering rhododendrons. The weather during the spring days is bright, sunny, and warm with pleasant temperatures. However, the early spring months have slightly cold nights being the post-winter months.
While spring is a great time, autumn is the best time for Mera Peak Climbing. With the departure of the Monsoon season, the weather will be dry yet the vegetation will still remain green and rich. The skies will be clear with the best visibility of the mountains, landscapes, and valleys from the trekking trails as well as the Mera Peak Summit. The autumn in the Mera Peak region starts in October and lasts till November.
Generally, the monsoon/summer and winter seasons are referred to as the off-season for the Mera Peak Climbing journey.
After the downpour, the skies and mountain views are at their best but the trails will be muddy and dangerous and may result in failure. Also, there are chances of avalanches and landslides making the trip unsafe. But if you are determined to undertake it during the monsoon, choose either late September or early June and go with extra preparation.
With the arrival of December, the Himalayan region gets ready to welcome the driest and coldest season, winter. The temperature starts to drop drastically, especially during the nights at the higher elevation. The aftermath of the heavy snowfall might block the trekking paths. However, it is doable to make the attempt with the proper planning, tools, and assistance from a certified climbing guide, especially in early December. In fact, if you appreciate solitude and quiet landscape, December is the best month for trekking.
Permits to do Mera Peak Climbing
Climbers are required to obtain the following permits to climb Mera Peak for the mentioned route in the below-given itinerary.
1. NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association) Permit
4. Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit
All these permits are included in the package cost.
Read More: How to obtain Mera Peak Climbing Permit?