Mera Peak Expedition
Overview
This Mera Peak expedition follows a more extensive route, starting from Bung and traversing through remote Himalayan landscapes. The journey combines challenging trekking, cultural experiences, and a summit attempt on Mera Peak (6,476 meters), offering an immersive Himalayan adventure that goes beyond the traditional approach.
- Region: Solukhumbu District, Eastern Nepal
- Duration: 18-21 days (typical)
- Highest point: Mera Peak summit, 6,476 m (21,247 ft)
- Accommodation: Combination of teahouses/lodges and tented camps
- Difficulty: Demanding to Very Demanding
- Permits & Fees:
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit
- Mera Peak Climbing Permit
- Local Area Permit
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Arrival in Kathmandu and Preparation
Arrive in Kathmandu, attend a comprehensive trek briefing, and finalize preparations. Check and organize climbing gear.
Gear Check: A thorough equipment check is crucial. Ensure all necessary climbing gear is in good condition.
Day 3: Travel to Bung (Start Point)
Begin the expedition from Bung, a remote village in the Solukhumbu region. Prepare for the initial trek and acclimatize to the initial terrain.
Starting Point: Bung offers a less-traveled approach to the Mera Peak region.
Day 4-5: Trek from Bung to Khiraule
Navigate through challenging trails, experiencing the raw beauty of the local landscape. Trek to Khiraule, enjoying the gradual ascent and local culture.
Cultural Immersion: Pass through traditional settlements, interacting with local communities.
Day 6-7: Khiraule to Cholem Kharka and Khote
Continue the trek, ascending through varied terrain. Move from Khiraule to Cholem Kharka, then proceed to Khote.
Landscape Transition: Witness the changing landscape from forests to alpine environments.
Day 8-9: Khote to Thaknak
Enter the Hinku Valley, moving towards Thaknak. The route becomes more challenging as altitude increases.
Altitude Awareness: Pay close attention to acclimatization and personal health.
Day 10-11: Thaknak to Khare
Ascend to Khare (5,045 m), the base camp for Mera Peak. Conduct essential training for the upcoming summit attempt.
Technical Preparation: Receive training on ice axe use, crampon techniques, and glacier travel.
Day 12-13: Mera Peak Summit Push
Ascend to Mera La (5,415 m), then to High Camp (5,780 m). Attempt the summit of Mera Peak (6,476 m).
Summit Challenge: Early morning start, with careful attention to weather and team conditions.
Day 14: Descent to Kongmadingma
After the summit, begin the descent to Kongmadingma, enjoying the post-summit relaxation and changing perspectives.
Recovery: Allow time for physical and mental recovery after the challenging summit day.
Day 15: Trek to Soto Phokari
Continue the descent, moving to Soto Phokari. Enjoy the gradual change in landscape and terrain.
Scenic Descent: Take time to appreciate the surrounding Himalayan scenery.
Day 16-17: Soto Phokari to Amphulaptsa Base Camp
Trek to Amphulaptsa Base Camp, experiencing high-altitude terrain and stunning mountain views.
High Altitude Experience: Continue to manage altitude and energy levels carefully.
Day 18-19: Amphulaptsa BC to Chuckung and Dingboche
Move through the trail to Chuckung and then to Dingboche, entering the more frequented Everest region.
Region Transition: Notice the change in landscape and increased trekking infrastructure.
Day 20-21: Dingboche to Namche Bazaar
Trek to the famous Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, enjoying the cultural and historical significance of the area.
Cultural Highlight: Explore Namche Bazaar, a key hub in the Everest region.
Day 22: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Continue the descent to Lukla, preparing for the return to Kathmandu.
Final Trekking Day: Reflect on the journey and prepare for departure.
Day 23: Fly to Kathmandu
Weather permitting, fly from Lukla back to Kathmandu.
Journey Conclusion: Celebrate the successful completion of the expedition.
Extension Options
1. Island Peak Climb (7-8 days)
- Highlights: Climb another popular trekking peak (6,189 m/20,305 ft)
- Description: After Mera Peak, head to the Khumbu region to attempt Island Peak, offering a different climbing experience.
- Best for: Experienced climbers looking to bag multiple peaks
2. Everest Base Camp Trek (5-6 days)
- Highlights: Visit the iconic Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar viewpoint
- Description: Extend your journey into the heart of the Khumbu, visiting Everest Base Camp and enjoying close-up views of Mt. Everest.
- Best for: Trekkers wanting to combine peak climbing with a classic Himalayan trek
- > find out more about this trek
3. Exploration of Hinku Valley (3-4 days)
- Highlights: Deeper exploration of the remote Hinku Valley
- Description: Spend extra time in the picturesque Hinku Valley, visiting high-altitude lakes and enjoying the solitude of this less-traveled region.
- Best for: Nature enthusiasts and those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience
FAQ
Mera Peak is considered a challenging climb. Although it's classified as a trekking peak, it requires the use of crampons, ice axe, and ropes. Good physical fitness, previous high-altitude trekking experience, and basic mountaineering skills are required.
While previous mountaineering experience is beneficial, it's not absolutely necessary. However, you should be comfortable with altitude, have good physical fitness, and be willing to learn basic mountaineering techniques during the expedition.
The weather can be highly variable. Expect cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations and during the summit push. Daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to -10°C (50°F to 14°F) and drop well below freezing at night and on summit day.
Yes, altitude sickness is a real risk on this expedition. Our itinerary includes appropriate acclimatization days, but it's crucial to ascend slowly, stay well-hydrated, and inform your guide immediately of any symptoms.
You'll need both trekking and mountaineering equipment, including warm clothing, sturdy boots, crampons, ice axe, climbing harness, and a sleeping bag rated for very cold temperatures. A detailed equipment list will be provided, and some technical items can be rented in Kathmandu.
The success rate varies depending on weather conditions, individual fitness, and acclimatization. On average, about 60-70% of well-prepared climbers reach the summit. However, safety always comes first, and summit decisions are made based on conditions and the overall health of the team.