Mera Peak tour

Day 2 is a free day for you, you may explore the city’s cultural landmarks or make final preparations for the trek. Meanwhile, the necessary permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), will be arranged. In the evening, a pre-trek briefing will cover key details of the Mera Peak climb, including route, equipment, and safety procedures.

A morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,827m) offers striking views of the Himalayan range along the Nepal-Tibet border. The 40-minute journey ends with a landing at the short, sloping runway of Tenzing-Hillary Airport. On arrival, porters assist with gear before settling in for the night in Lukla.

Leaving Lukla, the trail veers southeast, away from the well-trodden route to Phakding, and enters the Makalu-Barun Conservation Area. A small permit fee is required at the checkpoint before continuing through dense forest, past monasteries and streams. The gradual ascent leads to Chhutanga, a quiet settlement nestled beneath the towering ridges.

A demanding day on the trail, crossing the high-altitude Chetra La Pass (4,600m). The trek begins with views of Numbur Himal before ascending through rhododendron forests. The pass is exposed and prone to sudden weather shifts, requiring caution and the possible use of crampons. From the top, expansive mountain views stretch in all directions. A steady descent leads to Thuli Kharka, where you will spend the night.

The trail continues with panoramic mountain views, including the first glimpses of Mera Peak. Lined with prayer flags, the path descends below the treeline into a dense forest of bamboo and moss-covered trees. Entering Makalu-Barun National Park, the route follows the Hinku River before climbing through waterfalls and streams. The day ends in Kothe, a small settlement set among boulders and sandy terrain.

The trail follows a steady uphill route with striking views of Kyashar (6,800m), Kusum Kanguru (6,367m), and Charpate Himal. Mera Peak and Peak 41 (6,648m) also come into view. The path crosses multiple rivers, including the Hinku River via a wooden bridge, and a small Buddhist monastery built into a cave. An hour’s walk beyond the monastery leads to Thagnak, where the day ends.

An early start from Thagnak leads toward Khare, with striking views of the Mera Glacier spilling from Mera La Pass. The route ascends sharply through a rocky landscape of scree and glacial debris alongside the Dig Glacier. Passing through Dig Kharka, the north face of Mera Peak and Charpate Himal come into view. A final steep climb brings the trek to Khare, the last major settlement before the climb begins.

A rest day in Khare allows for altitude adjustment before the ascent. Short hikes in the surrounding area provide opportunities to acclimatise while taking in views of Mera La. Climbing guides conduct training sessions, covering ice climbing techniques and the use of essential mountaineering equipment. The afternoon is spent preparing for the climb ahead before an overnight stay in Khare.

The ascent from Khare to Mera High Camp requires a slow and steady pace to manage the increasing altitude. The trail climbs steeply over a moraine before reaching the rock face below the Mera Glacier. Crevasses along the route demand caution, particularly if fresh snow has fallen. The climb leads to a rock outcrop marked by a large cairn, where high camp is set for the night. From here, the panorama includes Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), and several other Himalayan giants.

An early start is essential for the summit push. The morning is bitterly cold, but movement quickly generates warmth as the climb begins across the glacier. The route is gradual but demanding, with the thinning air making progress slow and deliberate. As the sun rises, the surrounding peaks glow crimson against the ice.

The final approach steepens behind the ridge, bringing the summit into sight. If necessary, a fixed rope is used for the last steep summit cone. From here, the summit is only a few metres away (6,476m), where the Himalayas stretch endlessly in every direction. Take in the spectaular views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Kangchenjunga, Nuptse, Chamlang, and Baruntse.

The descent follows the same route back to high camp for a brief rest before continuing down to Khare. Overnight in Khare.

Weather in the high Himalayas is unpredictable, and summit attempts are subject to change. This extra day is reserved in case adverse conditions prevent the ascent as planned. If needed, it allows flexibility for a second attempt. If the climb proceeds without delay, the day is not required and can be used for additional rest or an adjusted itinerary.

Retracing the route from Khare, the trail descends through familiar landscapes. The descent is easier but still requires careful footing. Upon arrival in Kothe, there is time to rest and celebrate through trying local dishes and traditional drinks. Overnight in Kothe.

After breakfast, the trail ascends and descends across multiple tributaries of the Inkhu Khola before reaching a forked path near Taktho. Veer to the right and continue walking. A Chorten marks the way before a steep descent, followed by a steady climb towards Thuli Kharka. Another Chorten along the route signals the final stretch. Overnight in Thuli Kharka.

The trek begins with a steady ascent to Zatrwa La Pass (4,600m). From the top, views open up over Lukla Valley, framed by Cho Oyu, Kongde Peak, Numbur Himal, and Kusum Kanguru. The descent follows a direct route through Chutang before reaching Lukla. In the evening, a final dinner with the climbing team marks the end of the journey. Overnight in Lukla.

The journey concludes with a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The 35–40 minute flight departs from Tenzing-Hillary Airport, known for its dramatic takeoff. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to the hotel for rest and recovery.

You have a free day to unwind in Kathmandu. Use the time for rest or personal exploration. Those interested can arrange a guided visit to the historic cities of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, each rich in cultural and architectural heritage.

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for the return flight home or onward travel. A team member will arrange the journey from the hotel to the airport to ensure a smooth departure from Kathmandu.