Ultimate Guide to Mera Peak Climbing: Costs, Itinerary

“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles”

One of the many incredible mountains in the breathtaking Khumbu region of northeastern Nepal is Mera Peak, which is quite fascinating to climbers. Standing proudly at 6,461 meters (21197. 51 feet), Mera Peak Central should be on your list of peaks to climb as a beginner. Mera Peak is, however, beautiful, but the climbing of Mera Summit also comes with its own set of challenges and difficulties with an alpine grade of PD.

Please note: The Nepal Tourist Board, NTA on 1st April 2023 revised the trekking laws for all foreign trekkers and climbers in Nepal’s mountainous areas and national parks. New regulation for all trekkers including independent travelers and group travelers is to be accompanied by a licensed guide. For more information on what this means for you, do check our update on the Nepal trekking requirements.( Trekking Rules in Nepal)

Is Mera Peak Climbing in Nepal Suitable for Beginners?

If you are among the trekkers who have already done several high-altitude trekking and want to introduce yourself to climbing then Mera Peak Climbing will be the best option for you. This Peak climbing is suitable for those who have basic mountaineering skills and a good -moderate level of physical and mental fitness.

If you are a beginner then you need to train yourself for at least 4-6 months in advance to maintain your physical fitness. Start exercising for at least 2 hours to increase stamina and strength. You can also join Gym and Yoga to increase your fitness level.

Additionally, taking the basic mountaineering course before embarking on the Mera Peak will be the best idea. In Nepal,there are some agencies that provide the basic to advanced level of mountaineering skills. If you are interested then you can join in here also.

Difficulties and Challenges of Climbing Mera Peak

Mera peak is categorized as F or PD based on the International French Adjectival System (IFAS). This shows that it is relatively difficult to try and ascend Mera Peak, thus confirming it is a moderately difficult trek. Climbers require elementary climbing skills like crampons and ice axe use, rope handling, and glacier skills.

Let’s see the factors that make the Mera Peak challenging:

long-day trekking: During the Mera peak climbing trekkers need to walk around

for 5-6 hours daily. During a normal day, you will hike for 5-6 hours but on the summit days, you need to hike for around 7-8 hours which can be pretty tough. Walking for such long hours daily is not the only challenge; trekkers also need to navigate tough terrain, glaciers, deep ice cracks, and steep slopes.

Demands good level of physical fitness: Mera Peak climbing demands a good level of physical fitness because the ascent is tough. Climbers need to have good cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina to keep going and handle the physical challenges at high altitudes. Having proper physical fitness also helps to reduce altitude sickness and other health complications that can arise during the climbing journey.

Weather conditions: During the Mera Peak climbing journey especially at a high altitude the weather conditions can be unpredictable. Sudden changes in the weather, including storms, strong winds, and rapid drops in temperature can be troublesome for climbers while aiming for the summit.

Altitude sickness: Another major challenge that climbers need to face during the Mera Peak Climbing is altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can happen to anyone anywhere while trekking in the high altitude. Certain medications like Diamox can help to reduce altitude sickness. Climbers need to learn the early symptoms of altitude sickness and learn how to prevent altitude sickness for Mera Peak Climbing.

Altitude Gain: Reaching the summit of Mera Peak, at an altitude of 6,461 meters, involves gaining significant elevation, which can lead to breathing and other health issues. Also, walking at high altitudes on snow paths is tiresome and scary.

Accommodation: During the Mera Peak Climbing you will stay in the teahouse and do camping at the high altitude areas. The facilities will be limited in the tea house and it becomes more basic while staying in the camp.

Absence of proper facilities: Sleeping and staying during the Mera Peak climb can be challenging, especially for those without prior experience. The conditions can be uncomfortable, with limited amenities such as no Wi-Fi or other modern conveniences. Additionally, the temperature at the high altitude is extremely cold and can make it hard to stay warm and comfortable, even with proper gear.

Mera Peak Climbing Itinerary

Below here is the Mera Peak Climbing Itinerary that you can expect while trekking with us. This itinerary is one of the safest and best routes that we present to you. If you want to customize the itinerary as per your need and interest it is also possible with us.

DAY 1: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla – 45 minutes.

DAY 02: Trek from Lukla to Chutanga – 4 hours.

DAY 03: Trek from Chutanga to Chatara La – 7 hours.

DAY 04: Trek from Chatara La to Kothe – 5 hours.

DAY 05: Trek from Kothe to Thagnag – 4 hours.

DAY 06: Trek from Thangnak to Khare – 4 hours.

DAY 07: Acclimatization day

DAY 08: Khare to Mera high camp – 7 hours.

DAY 09: Mera high camp and back to Khare – 12 hours.

DAY 10: Reserved day

DAY 11: Trek back to Kothe – 7 hours.

DAY 12: Trek back to Thuli Kharka – 6 hours.

DAY 13: Trek back to Lukla – 8 hours.

DAY 14: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu – 45 minutes.

Note: This route for the Mera Peak climb is featured on our website which offers mostly moderate and easy levels of difficulty. The journey spans approximately 78-80 miles through rugged and remote terrains, including glaciers, crevasses, and icy paths. Despite being categorized as moderate there are some factors that can still present challenges along the trail.

Unveiling the Mera Peak Climbing Route: A Detailed Guide to the Ascent

There are 3 ways to approach Mera Peak and each of the ways may vary in the level of challenge depending on a specific trail. It is apparent that as the length of the itinerary reduces, the degree of difficulty increases when it comes to the Mera Peak climb. Let’s delve into each route individually.

Let’s delve into each route individually:

Mera Peak via Zatrawa La Pass : Route 1

Difficulty Level: Very Challenging

Best For: Intermediate climbers to Experienced Climbers

Among all the possible routes to Mera Peak, the route from Zatrawa La Pass to Mera is one of the shortest and yet toughest routes to do Mera Peak Climb in Neal. You will have a total of 1 day for acclimatization, 1 buffer day depending on the weather, and lots of pretty villages on the way.

Mera Peak Route 2

Difficulty Level: Challenging

Best for: Beginner level plus

This route is very famous among climbers because of the following reasons; first; the itinerary is very well constructed which makes it relatively easier for the climbers. It continues from the Lukla flight and into the pretty stations of Paiya, Ningsow & Chhatra Khola.

Mera Peak via Phaplu: Route 3

Difficulty Level: Challenging

Best for: All levels

This route is similar to route 2 but instead of taking a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, we will ride a bus/ jeep from Kathmandu to Phaplu on this itinerary. The distance from Kathmandu to Phaplu is about 275 kilometers, and it takes 8 to 9 hours to reach Phaplu.

Mera Peak Summit Options

Mera Peak features three main summits: Mera North (6,476 meters / 21,246.7 feet), Mera Central (6,461 meters / 21,197.51 feet), and Mera South (6,065 meters / 19,898.29 feet). Only Mera Peak Central and Mera Peak North are formally classified by the Nepal Mountaineering Association. Among these three summit, Mera Peak Central is the top choice for climbers due to its popularity and accessibility

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO CLIMB MERA PEAK?

The best time for the summit of the Mera Peak is during the months of autumn (September, October, and November) or spring (March, April, and May) seasons. During the spring and the autumn, the temperature during the daytime remains moderate which makes it easier for climbers to reach the destination without much difficulty.

Peak season Spring (March, April, and May)and Autumn season(September, October, and November)

Autumn and spring are the best time of year to climb the Mera Peak. Most climbers love to trek in this season due to favorable weather conditions and temperatures for trekking.

Also in the months of spring and autumn, there is less chance of rainfall which helps to get a crystal clear view of mountain peaks and the surrounding landscape. Many climbers aim to climb in this season therefore you can expect more crowds in this season.

Most of the flights are booked and the trail path gets busy. Also, you can expect a crowd inside the tea house. Therefore we highly suggest you book the trek in advance so you get the accommodation comfortably.

Tips for Climbing Mera Peak in Peak Seasons

Choose a Reliable Trekking Agency: Arrange your trek through a licensed local agency. They can book the best accommodations in advance, even during peak seasons.
Acclimatize Properly: Take enough time to acclimatize before you start your ascent to Mera Peak. This helps prevent altitude sickness.
Hire a Climbing Guide: It’s safer to climb Mera Peak with an experienced guide rather than going solo. They can make your adventure easier and safer.
Explore Different Routes: Consider alternative routes for climbing Mera Peak. Some routes might be less crowded and offer different experiences.
Bring Your Sleeping Bag: Tea houses can get crowded, so it’s wise to bring your own sleeping bag. This ensures you’re prepared for any shortage of bedding.
Protect Your Skin: Use SPF 40+ sunscreen to avoid sunburn and skin allergies, especially at lower elevations where temperatures can be higher.
Prepare for Crowded Trails: Be mentally and physically prepared for busy trails. Embrace the adventure and the challenges it brings.

Off season Winter(December – February)and Monsoon season/Summer(June – August)

The temperature at the high altitude especially at the base camp and high camp hardly goes above 0°C even during the day. We can expect extreme cold at high altitudes. In the winter season, this temperature drops below the freezing point and reaches up to -20°C which can be unbearable so being the chillest month in winter it is extremely difficult to trek in the winter season.

Trekking in the monsoon/ summer is extremely risky due to heavy rainfall that causes landslides, avalanches, and floods. Also, continuous rainfall can make the trail path slippery and muddy and even the trail path can be obstructed. The view will get obstructed due to rainfall so it might not be a good option to trek in the monsoon.

Note: Always try to climb in the peak season(Spring and autumn) for the Mera Peak instead of climbing in the off-season. Also, make sure to check the weather forecast 2-3 days before embarking on the Mera Peak. You can also take suggestions from your trekking Guides.

Accommodation Options on the Mera Peak Trek: Lodges, Tea Houses, and Camping Guide

After a long hour of hiking every day, you will need a place to sit, relax, and sleep. So for the trekkers, local people have established a number of tea houses on the trekking routes. Most of the tea houses are run by the local people, so compared to trekking destinations in other countries, trekking in Nepal is cheap and yet satisfying and comfortable.

Similarly in the trekking route of the Mera Peak also there are a number of lodges and tea houses available. This tea house and lodge provide the basic facilities of lodging and food.

Luxury room: At the lower altitude of the Khumbu region trekkers can find the facilities of luxury rooms. Inside the room, you can find a single room with an attached bathroom. Income palace you can even find heating equipment. They will provide you with wifi, electricity, and a hot shower for free. The service and amenities here will be more than what you can find in the standard room. To book this luxurious room you need to tell us in advance especially in the peak season due to limited availability.

Standard room: This type of room is common in most of the trekking routes at higher altitudes. The room here will be basic and there will be limited facilities for lodging and food. Inside the room, you can find a small twin bed and toilets are often shared among the travelers. For the use of the Wifi, electricity and the hot shower you have to pay the extra cost.

Tent/ Camping: While you are in the base camp or in the high camp you need to stay inside the tent during the Mera Peak summit. Your team will do the setup for the tent and you need to have your personal items like a sleeping bag with you. For the food, while staying in the tent there will be a cook who will prepare you basic yet delicious food.

Food Options on the Mera Peak Trek

Climbing at high altitudes climbers need to have good energy and nutritious meals play an important role for the successful summit. Once you book the Mera Peak climbing with the trekking agencies in Nepal they will reserve the room for you. The palace where you will be accommodated will provide food service, and you can choose from a variety of menus. However, don’t expect too much at higher altitudes because facilities in mountain regions become more limited the higher you go, becoming increasingly basic. While heading for Mera Peak, you will understand why trekkers often refer to the slogan “Dal Bhat Power 24 Hour.”

Let’s see some popular menus that you can expect in the tea house/ Guest house

Lower Altitudes (Up to Namche Bazaar): In these relatively more developed areas, you’ll find a variety of food options including local Nepali dishes (dal bhat, momos), international cuisine (pasta, pizza), and basic comfort foods.

Higher Altitudes (Above Namche Bazaar): As you ascend towards Mera Peak, food options become more limited and basic. You’ll still have dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), noodles, soups, and basic protein dishes. Fresh fruits and vegetables may become scarcer, and the menu choices are more limited to what can be transported and prepared at altitude.

Note: For beverages like water, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and the alcoholic beverage the price will not be included in the package. Therefore, it’s important to carry Nepali currency for purchasing these items.

Wifi and Electricity Availability During Mera Peak Climbing Adventures

In today’s world, trekkers often prioritize connectivity, even in remote destinations like Mera Peak. While trekking, you’ll find WiFi facilities available primarily within the tea houses along the route. To connect the Wifi you can ask the tea house owner or the staff working there. But you need to pay a little extra amount and these things are common in Nepal trekking destinations in the mountain region. You can also use the local sim (NCell or NTC) to get a mobile internet connection. You can buy local sims at a cheap price which will cost you around 1$ for the sim and you can use extra 1-4$ to use the extra facilities like data and international roaming for communication.

For charging your electronic devices you can charge while staying inside the tea house. They will provide you with the charging space and for this service you also need to pay extra costs. Normally it will cost you 1-2$ for one hour. Make sure to carry an international travel adapter to ensure compatibility with charging ports. Also, consider bringing a good quality power bank to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Drinking water facilities in the Mera Peak Climbing

Safe drinking water is important for your health and to keep yourself hydrated. You can purchase the water bottle from the small shops or tea houses on the route. You can even use the reusable water bottle and refill it from the tap. If you use tap water make sure to purchase the water purification which you can easily buy here in Kathmandu.

Remember that the cost of the water bottle in the higher bottle is expensive due to the lack of transportation available. Tea houses and shops can charge you up to $2-4 for a small water bottle.

Travel Insurance for the Mera Peak Expedition

Another most important thing that you need to have while joining the Mera Peak expedition is to have travel insurance. You cannot get a climbing permit without proof of travel insurance. Also, you need to go through the registered trekking agencies in Nepal and having a licensed Guide is compulsory for this Mera Peak expedition.

Foreigners cannot purchase travel insurance from Nepal and trekking agencies will not allow you to climb without having travel insurance so you must get insurance at your home. Find the best insurance company for the Mera Peak climbing which covers the risk up to 7000 m. Further While having travel insurance your insurance must cover emergency helicopter evacuation, flight delay, loss and theft of luggage injuries, and medical expenses.

Mera Peak Climbing Costs: Budgeting and Expenses Explained

If you’re planning for budgeting expenses for the Mera Peak Climbing then we are here to guide you in detail about the Mera Peak Climbing cost.

Mera Peak Climbing Cost

Travel visa cost: For 30 tourist visas it will cost you 50$

Travel Insurance: Minimum value of 10,000 $

Mera Peak Permit cost: 200$-300$

Accommodation cost: $20 to $250 per night

Food cost: $3 to $30 per meal

Mera Peak Climbing Equipment Costs: 1000$-10,000$( depends upon brand and quality)

Equipment Renting cost: Around 1-5$( you can rent here in Nepal)

Garbage Deposit cost: 500$ ( refundable)

Porter cost: $20-25 per day

Trekking guide and climbing guide cost: $30-60 for trekking guide and above$200 per day

Kathmandu to Lukla flight cost: Around 180$ for foreigners and around 140$ for Indian citizens and for Nepalese around 8000 NPR.

Miscellaneous cost: 200-500$

Mera Climbing Total Cost

On average you can find the Mera Peak climbing package for around 2000$ to 3000$ per person. The total cost depends upon several factors like the trekking agencies you choose, their service, climbing route, duration, food and accommodation you choose, transportation, etc. Before booking the package make sure to look at what are included in the package and what are not. So that it makes it easier to manage the budget for you.

Mera Peak Climbing Cost from Third Eye Adventure

Price for solo climber – $2490
Price for 2- 5 person – $2,290
Price for 6-11 person – $2,190
Price for 12-20 person – $2,090

Note: We offer a special group discount for our customers. For more information and to book your Mera Peak Climbing adventure, please contact us at:

Cell: +977 9851175534

Email: info@thirdeyeadventure.com / ganeshneu30@gmail.com

What to Pack for Mera Peak Climbing: Essential Gear and Packing Tips

Packing the right things is also an important step for the successful Mera Peak summit. Therefore you need to pack wisely according to the season you choose. When packing, it’s essential to prepare for sudden changes in weather conditions.

Here are the list of common things that you need to pack for the Mera Peak:

Important Documents And Items

Passport with at least six months of validity from the date you enter Nepal
Travel insurance that covers high altitudes including emergency helicopter evacuation
International currency like the Dollar, Euro, and Pound to get a Travel visa in Nepal
Nepalese currency for buying personal items, snacks, extra service, drinks, gifts, etc

Personal Climbing Gears

Ice axe
Crampons
Harness
Screwgate carabiners (2 locking, 2 non-locking)
Descender (also known as an eight-figure)
Plastic mountaineering boots
Ascender (also called Jumar)
Helmet
Snow bar
Rope
Ice hammer
Ice screw

Personal Trekking And Climbing Gear Checklist

Rucksack and Travel Bags

Small daypack/backpack (30-40L) with good shoulder padding for valuables
Large duffel bag (80-100L)
Small padlocks for duffel and kit bags
Waterproof covers

Head

Bandana or headscarf (useful for dusty conditions)
Balaclava (covers ears)
Beanie
Wide-brimmed sunhat
Neck gaiter or warmer
Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
Snow goggles and sunglasses with UV protection (extra pair if needed)
Prescription sunglasses (if required)

Upper Body

Long sleeve moisture-absorbing shirt
Moisture-absorbing T-shirt
Merino wool thermal base layer
Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
Waterproof shell jacket (breathable fabric)
Down vest
Gore-Tex jacket with hood (waterproof and breathable)

Hands

Lightweight poly-liner gloves or fleece gloves
Summit mittens (insulated gloves with safety straps)

Lower Body

Non-cotton underwear briefs
Hiking shorts
Merino wool thermal leggings
Waterproof trekking trousers
Hardshell trousers
Synthetic insulated pants

Feet

Double-insulated climbing boots
Sturdy hiking boots (water-resistant, ankle support)
Gaiters
Crampons
Lightweight inner socks, heavy poly or wool socks, cotton socks
Running shoes and rubber sandals/flip-flops

Sleeping

5-season sleeping bag (suitable for -40°C)
Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad (NeoAir XTherm)
Foam pad
Fleece sleeping bag liner
Pillowcase

Medical

Personal first-aid kit
Aspirin, first-aid tape, plasters (Band-Aids)
Skin-blister repair kit
Anti-diarrhea pills
Paracetamol
Cough and cold medicine
Anti-altitude sickness pills (Diamox or Acetazolamide)
Stomach antibiotic (Ciprofloxacin)
Throat lozenges
Water purification tablets or filter
Earplugs
Lip balm
Eye drops
Extra prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
Sunscreen

Practical Items

Repair tape, sewing kit
Lighter or matches
Compass or GPS (optional)
Alarm clock/watch
Camera with extra batteries and SD cards
Large Ziploc bags
2 water bottles (1 liter each)
Lightweight steel thermal bottle
Small folding or Swiss knife
Binoculars (optional)
Disposable rubbish sacks
Socket adapter Type C
Foldable trekking poles

Toiletries

Medium-sized quick-drying towel
Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
Small sachets of shampoo
Deodorants
Nail clippers
Face and body moisturizer
Female hygiene products
Small mirror

Personal Hygiene

Wet wipes (baby wipes)
Tissue/toilet roll
Anti-bacterial handwash
Hand sanitizer
Pee bottle (1 liter, leak-proof, wide mouth)
Pee funnel (for female)

Extras/Luxuries

Reading book
Trail map/guide book
Journal and pen
iPod
Playing cards
Modest swimsuit

Exploring Himalayan Peaks Below 7000 Meters: Adventures Similar to Mera Peak

If you have already climbed Mera Peak and want to explore another similar climbing peak in Nepal that is below 7000 m then here is a list of some famous peaks:

Check also: Ama Dablam Expedition [The Essential Guide]

Final Say

We hope that we have been able to provide you with a detailed Guide and information about the Mera Peak Climbing. If you have any queries about this peak climbing or want to book this peak climbing with us then you can contact or message us. Mera Peak is one of the best peaks to climb for beginners or those who want to practice before heading for the big summit expedition in Nepal. Thanks for reading. Have a great day!!!!!!!

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Ultimate Guide to Mera Peak Climbing: Costs, Itinerary, and Best Times to Scale

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