Embark on the ultimate Himalayan mountaineering adventure with our comprehensive 19-day Mera Peak expedition, taking you to the summit of Nepal’s highest trekking peak at an incredible 6,476 meters. This extraordinary journey combines the best of high-altitude trekking with technical mountaineering achievement, offering an unparalleled introduction to serious Himalayan climbing while remaining accessible to committed trekkers with good fitness levels.
Mera Peak is one of the most climbed peaks in Nepal and you can trek to its summit without any climbing gear , making it the perfect stepping stone for aspiring mountaineers looking to progress from trekking to technical climbing. The expedition takes you through the remote and pristine Hinku Valley, one of Nepal’s most beautiful and least-visited regions, where you’ll experience authentic Sherpa culture and witness some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth.
This journey leads us through remote but culturally-rich villages and amusing dense forests, where we can also see five of the six highest mountains in the world along our trip. The summit rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga , creating one of the most spectacular mountain panoramas available to any mountaineer.
Our carefully designed itinerary ensures proper acclimatization through strategic rest days and gradual altitude progression, while our comprehensive mountaineering training program prepares you with the technical skills needed for a safe and successful summit attempt. This expedition represents the perfect balance between adventure, cultural immersion, and mountaineering achievement, suitable for trekkers ready to take their Himalayan experience to the next level.
Highlights
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel . Take time to rest and adjust to the time zone while soaking in the vibrant energy of this ancient city. In the evening, we’ll hold a comprehensive pre-trip meeting where we’ll review your epic 19-day adventure, discuss gear requirements for both trekking and technical climbing, and answer any questions about this ultimate Himalayan challenge.
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Today is dedicated entirely to preparing for your Mera Peak adventure. We’ll conduct a comprehensive equipment check where our experienced guides will review all your gear and ensure you have everything needed for the challenging trek and climb ahead. This is your opportunity to rent or purchase any missing items from Kathmandu’s excellent outdoor equipment shops. We’ll also provide detailed briefings on route conditions, weather expectations, and safety protocols. Use this day to rest, organize your equipment, and mentally prepare for the incredible journey that awaits.
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Your extraordinary adventure begins with an early morning drive to Ramechhap for your flight to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport. Important 2025 Update: Since October 1st, 2022, all flights to Lukla operate from Manthali Airport (Ramechhap) instead of Kathmandu to avoid air traffic congestion . This requires a 4-5 hour drive to Ramechhap before your thrilling mountain flight. After landing in Lukla, we’ll meet our experienced porters and begin our trek south away from Everest toward Chutok . The trail is primarily downhill, allowing you to ease into the rhythm of Himalayan trekking while your body begins its gradual acclimatization process.
Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy (gentle downhill with some flat sections)
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Today features your first significant mountain trekking day as we make our way through the pristine wilderness toward Pangkongma La. Entering through the rhododendron forest and passing through a small monastery we will head toward Pangkongma La . The trail leads us through ancient forests filled with prayer wheels and mani stones, crossing the rushing Hinku Khola River before climbing to our campsite area at Nashing Dingma . This moderate elevation gain allows for continued acclimatization while immersing you in the spiritual atmosphere of the region.
Trek Distance: 10km (6.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (steady uphill with beautiful scenery)
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Today we descend through beautiful forests as we enter the magnificent Hinku Valley proper . The trail winds through pristine wilderness areas rarely visited by trekkers, offering incredible solitude and natural beauty. This gentle descent allows your body to adjust while providing spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. The remote and lovely region of Hinku Valley begins to reveal its secrets as we make our way deeper into this untouched landscape.
Trek Distance: 9km (5.6 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (mostly downhill through forests)
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Continuing through the heart of the Hinku Valley, today’s trek takes us along ancient paths through some of Nepal’s most pristine wilderness. The trail follows river valleys and traverses through varied terrain, offering spectacular mountain photography opportunities as distant peaks begin to emerge. This day provides excellent preparation for the higher altitude trekking ahead while maintaining comfortable elevation levels that aid in acclimatization.
Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (varied terrain with river crossings)
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Today marks a significant milestone as we ascend into the alpine zone with our first major altitude gain . This challenging but rewarding day takes us through changing ecosystems as we climb from temperate forests into high alpine environments. Upon reaching Kothe, we transition from camping to tea house accommodation, marking our entry into the settled regions of the high Himalayas. The village offers our first significant cultural interaction with local Sherpa communities.
Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Difficulty Level: Challenging (significant uphill with major altitude gain)
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This crucial acclimatization rest day follows the mountaineering principle of “climb high, sleep low” to help your body adapt to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. We’ll take an acclimatization hike to higher elevation while returning to Kothe to sleep, helping your cardiovascular system adjust to the thinner air. Explore the traditional Sherpa village, visit local monasteries, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of the Khumbu region. This day is essential for safe progression to higher altitudes.
Hike Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) round trip | Hike Duration: 3-4 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Moderate
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Today we enter the high alpine environment as we make our way to Thangnak, gaining significant altitude while following the ancient trade routes through the upper Hinku Valley. The landscape transforms dramatically as we climb, with views of surrounding peaks beginning to emerge through the thinning atmosphere. This moderate distance day allows for careful altitude management while positioning us perfectly for the final approach to base camp areas.
Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (significant altitude gain but shorter distance)
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Today represents the final approach to our base camp area as we climb to Khare, the last permanent settlement before Mera Peak Base Camp. The challenging ascent through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. This day requires careful pacing due to the significant altitude, but the shorter distance allows for gradual adjustment to the thinner air at over 5,000 meters.
Trek Distance: 6km (3.7 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Challenging (high altitude with significant elevation gain)
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This essential acclimatization day before your Mera Peak attempt allows for final altitude adjustment and comprehensive technical training for the summit climb ahead. We’ll conduct thorough mountaineering skills training including rope work, crampon use, ice axe techniques, and climbing strategies for summit day . Our experienced climbing guides will ensure you’re fully prepared for the technical challenges ahead while your body continues adapting to the extreme altitude.
Training Duration: 4-5 hours technical instruction | Difficulty Level: Moderate (technical skills focus)
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Today marks the beginning of your technical mountaineering adventure as we establish our base camp position beneath the towering walls of Mera Peak. The relatively short trek allows time for final equipment preparation and camp establishment in this spectacular high-altitude environment. Surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks, base camp provides an incredible atmosphere of anticipation for tomorrow’s summit attempt while offering the final staging point for your climbing challenge.
Trek Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 2-3 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (short distance but extreme altitude)
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Today we move to our advanced position for the summit attempt, climbing to High Camp where we’ll spend the night before our early morning summit push. The demanding ascent through increasingly technical terrain provides final preparation for tomorrow’s challenge while positioning us perfectly for the summit attempt. The thin air at nearly 6,000 meters requires careful pacing, but the spectacular views and proximity to your goal create an atmosphere of incredible anticipation.
Trek Distance: 3km (1.9 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (extreme altitude with technical terrain)
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Summit day! Today represents the culmination of your incredible 19-day adventure as you attempt to reach the summit of Mera Peak (6,476m) . The early morning start in darkness leads through glacier terrain and up steep snow slopes to the summit. The summit rewards you with spectacular 360-degree views of five of the world’s highest mountains, over 8,000m: Mount Everest (8,848m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,485m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,201m) . After this incredible achievement, we’ll descend safely back to Khare for celebration and recovery.
Climbing Distance: 8km (5 miles) round trip | Climbing Duration: 10-14 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (extreme altitude technical mountaineering)
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This crucial contingency day provides flexibility for weather delays or recovery from the summit attempt. Weather conditions at extreme altitude can change rapidly, making this buffer day essential for safety and flexibility. If the summit was successful yesterday, this day allows for rest, celebration of your incredible achievement, and preparation for the descent journey. The high-altitude environment requires careful monitoring of weather conditions, ensuring the best possible outcome for your expedition.
Activities: Weather contingency, rest, or descent preparation | Difficulty Level: Variable
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After your incredible mountaineering achievement, today begins the journey back to civilization as we descend through familiar terrain with new perspective and appreciation. The dramatic descent provides welcome relief from the extreme altitude while offering spectacular retrospective views of the peaks you’ve just conquered. The rich oxygen at this lower altitude feels luxurious after the thin air of the high peaks, and Kothe provides the perfect setting for reflection on your extraordinary achievements.
Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long descent with altitude relief)
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Your final day of trekking takes us back to where this incredible adventure began, following the beautiful Hinku Valley route back toward civilization. The long but rewarding trek through familiar valleys and forests provides time for reflection on your epic journey and the extraordinary achievement of summiting Nepal’s highest trekking peak. As we approach Lukla, the significance of your accomplishment becomes clear – you’ve completed one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding mountaineering adventures.
Trek Distance: 18km (11.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long distance with significant descent)
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We’ll have an early breakfast and head to Lukla airport for our return flight to Ramechhap, bringing your incredible Himalayan adventure full circle. The spectacular mountain flight offers final views of the peaks you’ve conquered and the valleys you’ve explored. Upon arrival at Ramechhap, we’ll drive back to Kathmandu where the bustling city atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the pristine mountain environment you’ve called home. Tonight’s farewell dinner provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate your extraordinary achievement with your fellow adventurers and guides.
Flight Duration: 35 minutes (Lukla to Ramechhap) | Drive Duration: 4-5 hours (Ramechhap to Kathmandu)
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After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping in Thamel or relaxation at your hotel. Our representative will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight . As you prepare to leave Nepal, you’ll carry with you memories of an extraordinary adventure – having summited the highest trekking peak in Nepal and experienced some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth.
Airport Transfer: Scheduled according to your flight time (typically 3 hours before international flights)
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Additional Information:
Medical consultation is essential before your trek – consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek, as high altitude can affect how medications work in your body. Disclose all medications you plan to bring to your trek leaders and guides .
Diamox (Acetazolamide) is commonly used for altitude sickness prevention, but should only be taken after consulting with your doctor about proper dosage and potential side effects.
Vaccinations recommended before coming to Nepal include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza. Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized vaccination advice.
Manthali drive is used for flying to Lukla during busy season (March-May, October-November) – requires early 2:30 AM departure for a 5-6 hour drive to Manthali Airport, followed by a short flight to Lukla . Since October 1st, 2022, all flights to Lukla operate from Manthali Airport instead of Kathmandu.
Spare days are essential – plan 2-3 additional days beyond the standard itinerary to avoid missing international flights due to unpredictable Himalayan weather . Schedule your international departure at least 2-3 days after your planned trek completion. The flight to Lukla is very vulnerable to weather shocks and it is common that flights are delayed or cancelled due to unfavourable weather.
Challenging mountaineering adventure – Mera Peak is rated as “Hard” difficulty and requires good fitness, basic technical skills, and previous high-altitude experience. You need to come well-prepared, both physically and mentally, before attempting to summit a Himalayan peak.
Specialized climbing insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 7,000m minimum is mandatory. Travel insurance is compulsory and must cover emergency rescue and evacuation . Standard travel insurance typically excludes climbing above 6,000m. Cannot be purchased in Nepal – must obtain before arrival.
Four-season sleeping bag rated to -15°C minimum and mountaineering boots are essential for survival at extreme altitude. We will lend you a down jacket and a sleeping bag for throughout the trek , but personal equipment may be preferred for hygiene and fit.
Weather-dependent objectives include Mera Peak summit at 6,476m . No refunds for weather-related cancellations or incomplete sections. Weather windows at 6,000m+ are unpredictable and safety always takes priority over summit attempts.
Physical preparation timeline should begin 6 months before departure with intensive cardiovascular training, strength building, and basic mountaineering skills development. It is recommended that you take light endurance training before attempting to scale the Himalayas.
Emergency evacuation costs $3,000-$6,000 USD from high altitude and must be covered by proper insurance. Helicopter rescue is weather-dependent. Guides and support staff are trained in basic medical intervention.
Success rates depend on physical preparation, weather conditions, proper acclimatization, and equipment quality. Individual limitations may affect group progress and safety decisions are made by guides. Mera Peak reaches 6,476m, requiring serious altitude preparation.
Key items for Mera Peak Climbing include:
We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.
As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.
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