Mera Peak - 22 Days

Duration: 22 Days (18 Days trek and climb and rest of the time in Kathmandu)

This 22-day journey includes a few days in Kathmandu, a trek through beautiful villages, a brief training session, rest and summit.

Approach Routes:

Our program is based on a longer route through a less crowded trail along with a gradual ascend to higher elevation allowing the body to get good acclimatization period before summitting the peak.

The option is in case you are used to the high elevation trek and climbing then we can take a higher elevation route which is a bit shorter.

Mera Peak Central and North Summit

There are two summits, the central and the north and both are considered as the summit of Mera Peak.

Central summit 6,461m is the most popular and attempted by many groups.  It can be reached by approaching a higher line to the eastern summit. The final climb will be around 20-degrees steep.

Whereas the northern summit 6,476m is bit tricky and difficult.  It is a more westerly lower line approach from the high camp than final reach to the summit is through a snow and ice steep slopes up to 40 degrees

Grading: Strenuous+ Alpine Grade PD

This trip is classified as an expedition as it involves trekking at a higher altitude and climbing 6,467m peak. The trek trail will be on a poorly defined trails in a remote region of Nepal with variable weather conditions.

This peak is graded as Alpine Grade PD as it involves reaching up to 6,467 m with some technical climb in the last stretch of the summit along with glacier walk. It will be on a fixed rope using ascender/jumar.

Acclimatization and Safety:

Since this tour will take you to an elevation of 6,467 meters, there is a chance that you will experience altitude issues. This poses a serious problem for climbers. As a result, adequate time must be allowed for acclimatization prior to attempting a summit push.

Our program is perfect as it reaches Everest Base Camp at 5,335 meters, climbs Kala Pather at 5,545 meters, and crosses Kong Ma La (pass) at 5,545 meters before reaching the summit of Island Pass. The program involves gradually reaching higher elevation with resting at various elevations to give the body enough time to adjust to the new environment.

Who Can Undertake This Trip?

The ascent of Mera Peak is considered as a moderately challenging which requires a certain level of physical preparation, technical skills, and previous mountaineering experience. Climbers should be comfortable using equipment such as crampons, ice axes and ropes.

So, anyone who has some technical mountain climbing experience and is looking for the Himalayan Mountain challenge will fit it very well.

For beginners the climbing of Mera will be challenging as it requires navigating glaciers, steep snow slopes with exposed sections. We actual don’t recommend it.

Physical Preparation and Training:

Proper preparation needs to be done before undertaking this trip.

Some of the training tips:

• Endurance and Fitness Level: Climbers are advised to engage in a fitness regimen that includes cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking with a weighted pack.
• Technical Challenges: Since climbing entails traversing a glacier, climbers should be familiar with safe glacier terrain navigation techniques and comprehend the correct use of crampons and ice axes.
• Fixed Ropes: During the summit push, climbers must use fixed ropes for the steep areas they encounter. This method requires a person to be securely attached to ropes when ascending steep, high terrain. While this may seem intimidating, many led groups provide support and guidance to climbers who are unfamiliar with these techniques.
• Climbing Skills: Climbers should be proficient in the use of an ice axe, self-arrest techniques, and proper footing on rough and slippery slopes as well as ladder crossing.
• Mental Challenges: Climbing can be physically and mentally taxing. To have a successful ascent, you must mentally prepare yourself. Climbers can better manage their anxiety and maintain concentration on their goals by utilizing strategies like visualization, mindfulness, and positive affirmations.
• Gear and Equipment: Climbers are advised to have high-quality mountaineering gear suitable for alpine conditions, including insulated boots, harnesses, helmets, layered clothing, and climbing accessories.
• Training at the Camp: Before starting the climb, we provide a crash course to improve the essential skills. This boosts the confidence of all team members for a safe and successful summit.

Accommodation:

In Kathmandu it will be in a medium class hotel on a twin sharing basis

During the trekking the accommodation will be on a twin sharing basis in a simple mountain lodge with common restrooms.

Whereas during climbing from the base camp you will have around 2/3 nights camping on a twin sharing basis. Sleeping mattress, food, dining, toilet tents.

In the lodges there are facilities for Wi-Fi, electricity for charging your device, and hot showers but there are extra charges.

Meals:

This trip is on a full board basis, which means 3 meals a day are included each day.  You can find a wide variety of Nepali, Western, Chinese & Indian cuisine.

Breakfast offerings include muesli, a variety of porridges, pancakes and bread with jam or eggs.

For lunch it is worth considering what can be quickly prepared, with veg noodle soup being popular. Pancakes and Tibetan bread are also relatively quick to make. Increasingly toasted sandwiches are on menus too. Apple pie is generally delicious, deep fried in the same way as the spring rolls are.

At dinner you can start with soup, then you can choose the main dish either macaroni, spaghetti, potato, pizza, rice etc.

Most meal choices are carbohydrate-heavy; exactly what trekkers require. All lodges serve tea, coffee, hot chocolate, hot lemon, soft drinks and beer (check its temperature first) and some places even offer wine.

Avoid having uncooked food like salads, meat products during the trek or even in Kathmandu.

Facilities and Essentials:

• Water

It’s crucial to drink enough water while trekking. Lodges and on-route stores sell bottled water; however, it can be costly and harmful to the environment. Rather, we advise you to purchase water filtered bottles or water purification tablets then you can purchase water from the lodges.

Avoid drinking straight from the taps, wells, or rivers in your area.

• Communication

One can purchase a local SIM card in Kathmandu, though connectivity may not be reliable at remote high altitudes. In lodges also you have WiFi facilities.

Ideal Period for the Trip:

The weather plays a critical role in the enjoyment of a Himalayan trek. Clear skies and unobstructed views of the peaks enhance the experience.

• Autumn (Mid-October to Mid-December): The ideal time for this trek, with stable weather, clear skies, and breathtaking mountain views. Temperatures are comfortable, though it begins to get colder in November.
• Spring (Mid-March to Late April): Another good time for trekking. While the weather can be hazy with occasional rain, the blooming rhododendrons and greenery add a unique charm. Avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June to early September) due to heavy rain and slippery trails.

At higher elevation, spring temperatures range from 20°C to -5°C, while in autumn it is around 25°C to -10°C.

However, weather patterns have become unpredictable, so flexibility and a positive outlook are essential.

Staff Support:

You will have the support of a Govt. registered trekking/climbing experience guide who can speak Basic English language, well acquainted with the area. All our Guides have received training in basic skills and knowledge about administering first aid and emergency medication. We provide porters to carry your personal baggage and gear, leaving just the day pack to be carried by you. The baggage allowance for this trip will be around 25 kg which should include your climbing gears as well.

Group Size:

Normally our group size is between 2 to 10 participants – it is always great to have a small group instead of big groups to provide a better attention.

Lukla Flights:

Aircraft Details: Flights to Lukla are operated by small aircraft with a capacity of approximately 14/17 passengers, as larger planes are unsuitable for the mountainous terrain. The best time for these flights is in the early morning when weather conditions are usually favorable. Afternoons often bring wind and cloud cover, leading to flight delays or cancellations.

Weather Dependency: Flights to and from Lukla are heavily weather-dependent. Delays and cancellations are common and can sometimes extend over several days. In such cases, travelers must wait for improved weather conditions to resume flights.

Helicopter Charter: Helicopters, which can operate with reduced visibility (minimum 1,500 meters compared to the 5,000 meters required for small planes under Civil Aviation regulations), are an alternative. Helicopter charters are costly but become more affordable when shared among travelers (maximum capacity of 5 people per helicopter under current government regulations).

Baggage Allowance:

Weight Restrictions: Baggage allowance on flights to Lukla is limited to 10 kg for checked luggage and 5 kg for hand luggage. Excess baggage of 10 kg will be booked extra by the company.

Important Items: Due to limited space, baggage may sometimes arrive on a later flight. Ensure that essential items, such as medications and valuables, are packed in your daypack. During the trek, your main luggage will be carried by porters, and you’ll only need a daypack for personal items such as water, a camera, sunscreen, and a jacket.

Storage in Kathmandu: You’ll need a lockable bag for items you won’t take on the trek, which can be stored securely at your hotel in Kathmandu free of charge. Trekking bags for your gear will be provided by FAR OUT Trekking.

Typical Day on the Trip:

The day begins at 6:00 AM with tea or coffee, followed by washing, packing, and breakfast. The trek usually involves 3-4 hours of walking before a lunch break at a scenic spot, followed by another 3-4 hours of trekking to the day’s destination. Evenings are spent at lodges, with dinner served in the lodge’s restaurant.

Equipment Essential trekking/climbing gear:

 A detailed equipment list will be provided upon trip confirmation.

Health, Medical & Vaccinations:

Consult your doctor at least 8 weeks before departure regarding vaccinations and a health check-up. Diseases such as cholera, hepatitis, and typhoid are common in Nepal, along with dengue in some regions. Stick to boiled or bottled water and avoid raw or undercooked foods. Carry personal medications along with prescriptions, ensuring they comply with Nepal’s regulations.

Insurance:

Comprehensive travel insurance covering health, accidents, theft, helicopter evacuation, and medical treatment is mandatory for trekking in Nepal. As Mera Peak climb reaches up to 6,467m altitude, so you need to make sure that the Insurance covers it. Choose a reliable provider with prompt services and a suitable policy.

Permits and Visa Requirements:

Visa:

All foreigners require a visa to enter Nepal. It can be obtained on arrival or through Nepalese embassies abroad. A passport with at least 6 months’ validity and the appropriate visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, or USD 120 for 90 days) is required.

Online visa forms can be filled out at immigration.gov.np.

Permits:

Three permits are required:

1. Pasang Lhamu Municipal Tax
2. Mera Peak Permit
3. Conservation Park Ticket

These require a digital passport-size photo and a scanned copy of your passport.

Adventure Travel Considerations

Trekking in Nepal involves navigating underdeveloped, remote areas where conditions can be unpredictable. Flexibility and a positive attitude are essential, as itineraries may change due to weather, terrain, or other unforeseen circumstances. If you have concerns about suitability, consult your trekking agent.