Mera Peak Climbing- An Exclusive Guide From Summiteers
Mera Peak Climbing- An Exclusive Guide From Summiteers
Modified on Jul 31, 2022
According to the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), Mera Peak (6,476 meters) is the highest approved trekking peak in Nepal. When it comes to climbing Mera Peak, it is not that hard. However, Mera is higher than the other peaks. Scaling the Mera peak requires a basic level of climbing skill, which is a manageable climb for an ice-covered walk. Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary, the first climbers of Everest, started the trend of climbing Mera peak before pushing towards Mt. Everest as acclimatization & warmup. Since then, its popularity has not been overlooked. Instead, it increased year after year. And not only that, Mera peak offers a great introduction to peak climbing in the Himalayas. Therefore, the peak attracts a lot of beginner climbers every year.
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The general Mera peak climbing package combines trekking & climbing; unless you are an experienced climber and decide to take a helicopter ride to the Mera base camp and skip the trekking part. For novice climbers, the trekking part is essential too. It lets you acclimatize to the elevation and get you ready for the summit push.
During this part of the venture, you'll explore the mountain villages, stupas, lush forests, and farming terraces. Not only that, but you also get to witness the beautiful unspoiled scenery of Nepal firsthand. At the same time, you'll have a deeper insight into the rich culture of the Sherpas and the people of other communities. Also, since the course is longer, it will be better for acclimatization.
The view is truly breathtaking, both from the high camp and the top of Mera peak. It's worth stopping to watch the sunrise capture these mountains at dawn. Mera Peak climbing is an exciting and thrilling high-altitude adventure. This is the best peak climbing in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal.
Even though Mera peak is considered an easy & non-technical peak to climb in the Himalayas, do not underestimate the challenges it holds. Below we have talked about some simple yet very important things one should know before deciding to climb Mera peak.
Mera Peak- The Best Trekking Peak
Another significant reason people choose to go for Mera Peak climbing is the stunning summit perspective of over-8000-meter summits such as Mt. Everest (8,849 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), and Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m). This, paired with the fact that it provides unsurpassed vistas and magnificent panoramas, makes this trekking peak one of Nepal's most popular peaks climbing.
Following a far less used path than the Everest Base Camp route, you will cross a beautiful crossing into the practically desolate Hinku Valley before walking north to Mera Peak. Whether you wish to tackle the summit or simply enjoy the journey by joining Mera base camp trekking, you will feel as if you have participated in a genuine Himalayan adventure.
*FYP: Mera is one of the few Himalayan peaks that can be climbed in three weeks or less.
Mera Peak Location
Mera Peak is a peak in the Mahalangur range of the Himalayas, Barun sub-district, and is located in Nepal's Sagarmatha National Park in the Solukhumbu district. Mera Peak consists of three main peaks; Mera North (6,476 m), Mera Central (6,461 m), and Mera South (6,065 m), as well as a smaller "trekking peak" visible from the south but not featured on most maps of the region.
Mera peak is classed as a hiking peak due to its elevation of 6,476 meters. From the top of Mera, one can view five of the world's tallest mountains: Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The traditional approach from the north consists primarily of high-altitude glacier walking.
Mera Peak Climbing Route
Mera peak climbing package is a combination of climbing and trekking. Although physically demanding, it requires relatively little climbing technique and can be climbed by anyone with reasonable fitness. Of course, the overall journey is not easy. It takes a crash course when climbing at high altitudes, but with a good guide, you can do something really special.
There are three different routes to climb Mera Peak, and each is particularly difficult or easy. The first route goes through Lukla - Zatrwa La Pass - Thagnak - Mera Base Camp - High Camp - Summit. This particular path is the shortest but the most difficult. It's good for climbers pushing towards a higher mountain and looking to acclimatize/practice.
Similarly, the second route passes through Lukla- Chhuthang- Zatrwa La- Thuli Kharka- Kothe- Thagnak- Khare- Mera High Camp- Mera summit. This track is much easier than the previous one. It is the most used Mera peak climbing route by rookie climbers. Therefore, we can say the route you choose also has some effect on the difficulty of climbing Mera peak.
How hard is it to climb Mera Peak?
Climbing Nepal's highest trekking mountain is no simple endeavor, but planning a trip can be tough without appropriate knowledge. The ascent of Mera Peak necessitates prior fitness, hiking experience, and mental fortitude. The climb's difficulty is determined by various elements, including high altitude acclimatization, weather conditions, physical fitness, and altitude sickness.
Mera Peak climbing does not require technical mountaineering knowledge as long as you are physically fit and strong enough to trek for numerous hours on varied terrain over multiple days. However, certain things must be taken care of for a successful climb, and they are as follows:
Altitude sickness:
The trek to Mera Peak takes you from the lowest level 1,400 m in Kathmandu, to the highest point at 6,476 m (Mera Peak). The trek is still arduous due to the altitude and requires a high degree of fitness. An overall sense of tiredness will sap all of the excitement you were experiencing prior to things going wrong.
You may also have difficulty falling asleep, experience dizziness, or have a strong headache. You may also have a loss of coordination, difficulty walking, and a tight chest. So, if you feel uneasy while ascending the summit, contact the team leader and follow his directions.
Terrain:
The densely wooded and watershed valleys combine to provide a thrilling adventure that mixes snow, trees, and the valley. Up to Kharka in the Upper Hinku basin, where Sherpa from the south graze their sheep during the wet season near Pangkongma, both the Hongu and Hinku valleys are bleak and empty. The upper Hongu Basin is a hilly area with huge moraines and glacial lakes, including Mt. Chamlang and Mt. Baruntse.
Remote Region and Limited Facilities:
You'll be sleeping in tea houses on your trip to Mera Peak due to the remote location and minimal facilities. Tea houses, also known as Bhatti, are tiny hotels. Because they are small hotels, you can only anticipate a limited amount of comfort. They're comfy in the sense that you have a place to sleep and can eat home-cooked meals.
It will not, however, be extremely opulent. You can expect flush bathrooms, hot showers, and, in certain circumstances, wifi internet (Usually hot showers, wifi, charging, etc cost additional few bucks, which is not covered in the package cost. So, it's better to have some Nepali cash on you). These tea houses are managed by local families who have opened their doors to passing backpackers.
Best Mera Peak Climbing Season
The best months to climb Mera Peak in Nepal are March to May (Spring) and September to November (Fall). The ideal time of year to climb Mera Peak is in the spring. Rhododendrons and other floras fill the magnificent route at the lower height. The views are crystal clear and breathtaking. And the weather remains consistent, making it ideal for pushing towards the peak.
Similarly, the good weather makes the trek enjoyable. If you have missed the spring season, then autumn is the second-best time of year. There will be snowfall at higher elevations, but it is nothing to worry about. The weather is consistent, and the moderate temperature makes the stroll enjoyable. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 5°C.
The weather is scorching throughout the day, with chilly evenings and mornings. There will be a crisp cold in the air. The route is decorated with colorful fall foliage, and the views are breathtaking. If you are properly prepared for the weather, early & late winter can also be an excellent climbing season.
By the way, you can also go skiing at Mera peak. Opened a couple of years ago, you can be among early travelers to ski in the Himalayas. For more information contact us.
In the crisp and chilly month of December, the mountain panoramas are crystal clear, and there are fewer trekkers around. The time of the Mera Peak Climbing may be adjusted to meet your demands and weather conditions. The mountain views are surreal in winter, and the cost of most of the things is on the cheaper side in the off-season.
Climbing Preparation
It will be tough to be completely prepared for your expedition unless you have previously walked at a greater altitude. Mera Peak Climbing is a non-technical journey that starts at 2,860 meters (Lukla) above sea level and comprises multiple acclimatization and training days.
Mera Peak is not a straightforward climb in any manner, shape, or form, despite its classification as an amateur climb. Mountains are evaluated based on their specialized and real difficulty. Climbers should focus on persistence and strength training as part of their preparation. But don't be concerned about any of it. If you are serious about this journey, you can opt for a fully supported expedition with a competent mountain guide.
When it comes to avoiding altitude sickness in the mountains, the general guideline is to take it easy. No matter how fit you are, once you're on the trails, you have to go at your own pace. Of course, the more fit you are, the more you can enjoy your time. Keeping yourself hydrated and getting enough sleep will maintain your stamina. Also, help you avoid altitude sickness, but then again, it can get tough.
Accommodation and Meals
Nepal has grown so famous in recent years that more and more tea shops have opened their doors, and the idea has evolved with time. The greater the quality of your tea establishment, the more popular your path. As a result, the teahouses in the Everest region are of high quality. On popular routes, you may even stay in places designed specifically to serve as tea houses.
We recommend that everyone on the journey consume 3-4L of water every day. Maintaining hydration will also help you adapt correctly. We highly recommend you carry hydration pills or filtration bottles to double purify the water. Do not drink water directly from a stream or tap. You may not be able to digest it.
A big chunk of the meal options is available in the tea houses and on your climbing days. You can eat Nepalese, Tibetan, Indian, and more familiar continental cuisines while climbing Mera Peak. You don't have to worry about food, but you should eat enough.
In high altitudes, your body will typically reject food. You can opt for more healthy and clean options such as dal bhat (authentic Nepali meal). You may have to restrict yourself with the first few tastes, but in the long run, your body will come to tolerate the meal & get used to the taste.
Kathmandu Lukla Flight
Your adventure will begin with a flight into Lukla, followed by a trek through gorgeous lush forested slopes and through many lovely mountain villages before reaching the Mera La. During a 30-minute flight, you will be able to marvel at the magnificent hills, rivers, and mountains.
Because of the elevation of the Lukla airport (2,860 m), the can flight gets delayed or canceled. The peak climbing seasons have the most stable weather, so the flight delays are less. But you should understand that on off chance you may have to face flight delays.
Top 10 tips for climbing Mera peak from the summiters
Choosing the appropriate season
The finest and safest times to climb Mera Peak are in the fall and spring. For a better experience, trekkers should visit in late April and May, as well as in late September and October. May and October are the ideal months to travel. Unlike late March, April, October, and November, these months are not chilly or snowy.
Having altitude experience
Mera Peak, at 6476m, is Nepal's highest trekking peak. Because the oxygen concentration of the air at this height is less than half of what it is at sea level, we would not recommend Mera as your first high-altitude trek. But, if you are fit and strong enough to walk for many hours, you can consider this your first trekking adventure. Before attempting a climb like Mera Peak, you need to understand how your body adjusts to the altitude. If you've already completed a high-altitude trip and done well, Mera is an excellent next experience.
Prepare the necessary gear and equipment
At Mera Peak, the weather might change at any time. As a result, it is critical that you bring the necessary gear and equipment for the trip. Climbing equipment, harnesses, and other accessories are essential for a trouble-free expedition. Because various persons require different sizes of gear, we give personalized guidance regarding the best gear to our guests.
Choosing the best itinerary
There are several packages and itineraries available on the internet that will take you to Mera Peak and back. Trekkers must, however, ensure that their plan includes the appropriate amount of days for acclimatization. Choosing a package with fewer days might save you money, but it also jeopardizes your safety and success on the mountain. Travelers should select itineraries that include extra days in case of bad weather.
Getting used to camping
Mera Peak Climbing includes sleeping in tents surrounded by breathtaking mountains and the Himalayan ambiance. In reality, you relax for a number of nights, which necessitates your good health (and this will surely be an amazing experience; wake up in the mountains). During climbing, you will spend nights at local tea houses and a few in tents. You must be prepared to sleep in the vast outdoors for numerous nights in a row! The weather may be quite variable, with a broad range of situations.
Physical conditioning
Climbing Mera Peak needs good physical conditioning, and you should begin preparing months in advance. In terms of physical training, we recommend that you engage in aerobic activities such as jogging, bicycling, or swimming. You may also stroll around your house or park for a few hours every day with a small backpack. To be able to trek for days on end, you will need to increase your strength and endurance.
Finding a reliable guide company
What matters most, though, is the climbing guide or mountaineering leader for your trip. Climbing success is highly dependent on the guide and mountaineering leader. There is a significant difference between hiring an experienced guide and hiring a guide with less expertise. Many people, despite prior expertise and training, have been unable to climb Mera Peak owing to untrained guides and poor planning. Choose a reputable firm with certified guides and expertise in conducting these climbing trips.
Maintain personal hygiene
Mera Peak is a three-week trek through the isolated and picturesque Hinku valley. Maintaining personal health and hygiene is critical with little to no health post-en route. Things to remember include using hand sanitizers, drinking properly boiled water, avoiding meat and bread, using a decent sunscreen, and dressing appropriately. Bring your own first-aid kit, which should include drugs (Altitude Sickness, Diarrhea, Headache, painkillers, Bandages, Antiseptics, Blister Tapes, etc). On Mera Peak, several companies will give a thorough medical pack as well as a supplemental oxygen system (if needed).
Trekking preparation must-haves
Make a list of the services you'll require for the climb. Create a climbing equipment list based on your specific checklist. Communicate clearly with a firm whose services you want to use. Inquire about the advice and the measures you need to take. Climbing equipment, permits, climbing guides, porters, and logistical support are all required for you.
Be mentally prepared
Last but not least, be mentally prepared- be prepared for a breathtaking and wonderful experience at Nepal's highest hiking peak. Climbing Mera Peak provides several photographic possibilities. The Hinku Valley walking trail is really beautiful. Glaciers, high mountain passes, glacial rivers, charming hamlet communities, and incredible locals greet you.
Mera Peak is an excellent alternative for anyone looking for their first Himalayan climbing trip. Professional mountaineers and summit climbers can be found on the Mera peak routes. It's wonderful to be surrounded by such pleasant energy.
We, Scenic Nepal Treks, have been organizing similar expeditions, including Mera peak climbing for years. Furthermore, we have the knowledge to guarantee that you have every opportunity to succeed in climbing Mera Peak. Thus, you can be proud of your tremendous accomplishment and exhilarating climbing experience in making your goal a reality.
If you have a group of friends or trekkers and want to go on a private climbing adventure, let us know, and we will create the date, route, and best package trip pricing to meet your needs.
I’m Dipendra, an Adventure Specialist and the founder of Scenic Nepal Treks, with over a decade of experience in mountain travel and tourism.
I have had the privilege of leading hiking groups from around the world to the breathtaking Himalayas, including iconic treks to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and many others. Join me on my adventures by following me on Facebook and Instagram!