Summit Nepal's highest trekking peak and enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and Kangchenjunga from the spectacular summit of Mera Peak (6,461m)
Mera Peak (6,461m) is Nepal’s highest trekking peak and one of the most rewarding Himalayan climbing adventures for trekkers looking to take their first step into high-altitude mountaineering. Located in the remote Hinku Valley of the Everest region, Mera Peak combines scenic trekking, gradual acclimatisation and a non-technical ascent with spectacular Himalayan views.
The journey follows a less-travelled route through pristine forests, traditional Sherpa villages and remote mountain valleys before reaching Khare and Mera High Camp. A dedicated training day helps climbers prepare for the ascent, making Mera Peak an excellent introduction to Himalayan peak climbing. The reward is an unforgettable summit experience with panoramic views of five of the world’s highest mountains: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and Kangchenjunga, creating one of the finest viewpoints in the Himalayas.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Mera Peak Climbing.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu
Day 2: Briefing & passport collect for the permits
Day 3: Fly to Lukla or drive to Manthali and fly to Lukla, trek to Paiya (Chutok, 2800m)
Day 4: Trek Paiya to Panggom (2,846m)
Day 5: Trek Panggom to Ningsow (2,863m)
Day 6: Trek Ningsow to Chhatra Khola (2,800m)
Day 7: Trek Chhatra Khola to Kothe (3,691m)
Day 8: Trek Kothe to Thaknak (4,358m)
Day 9: Trek Thaknak to Khare (5,045m)
Day 10: Khare: Acclimatization and pre climb training (5,045m)
Day 11: Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780m)
Day 12: Mera High Camp to Summit (6,461m)and back to Khare (5,045m)
Day 13: Reserve Day for Contingency
Day 14: Trek Khare to Kothe (3,691m)
Day 15: Trek Kothe to Thuli Kharka (4,300m)
Day 16: Trek Thuli Kharla to Lukla (2800m) via Zatrwa La pass (4,600m)
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu or Fly to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu
Day 18: Departure
Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, route conditions, acclimatisation requirements, climbing schedules, group pace or operational requirements.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax, recover from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Climbing Briefing, Permit Preparation and Equipment Check (B)
Today you will meet your climbing guide for a comprehensive expedition briefing. Permits will be finalised and all climbing equipment checked to ensure you are fully prepared for the climb. Any last-minute equipment purchases or rentals can be arranged in Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,860m) and Trek to Paiya (2,800m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Take an early morning flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. During peak trekking seasons, flights may operate via Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. Upon arrival, begin trekking through forested trails and traditional villages before reaching Paiya.
Overnight in Paiya.
Day 4: Trek Paiya - Panggom (2,846m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
The trail descends through rhododendron and bamboo forests before crossing several suspension bridges. Climb steadily to the traditional village of Panggom, inhabited primarily by Sherpa communities.
Overnight in Panggom.
Day 5: Trek Panggom - Ningsow (2,863m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route traverses forested ridges and remote mountain trails with occasional views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Descend through dense woodland before climbing to Ningsow, a small settlement on the edge of the Hinku Valley.
Overnight in Ningsow.
Day 6: Trek Ningsow - Chhatra Khola (2,800m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
A longer day takes you deeper into the wilderness of the Makalu Barun region. The trail passes through untouched forests rich in wildlife before descending to Chhatra Khola, where several trekking routes converge.
Overnight in Chhatra Khola.
Day 7: Trek Chhatra Khola - Kothe (3,691m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Follow the Hinku River through beautiful pine forests and alpine landscapes. As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with views of Mera Peak beginning to appear.
Overnight in Kothe.
Day 8: Trek Kothe - Thaknak (4,358m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
Continue steadily up the Hinku Valley alongside the river, passing grazing pastures and seasonal yak settlements. The surrounding peaks and glaciers become increasingly prominent as you approach Thaknak.
Overnight in Thaknak.
Day 9: Trek Thaknak - Khare (5,045m) | Approx. 2-3 Hours (B L D)
A relatively short but important acclimatisation day. The trail climbs gradually towards Khare, the final permanent settlement before the summit phase of the expedition. Stunning views of Mera Peak dominate the skyline.
Overnight in Khare.
Day 10: Acclimatisation and Climbing Training at Khare (B L D)
A crucial acclimatisation day. Your climbing guide will conduct practical training covering the use of crampons, harnesses, ice axes, ascenders, fixed ropes and basic glacier travel techniques. This training prepares climbers for the summit push while helping the body adjust to the altitude.
Overnight in Khare.
Day 11: Trek Khare - Mera High Camp (5,780m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Ascend onto the Mera Glacier and make your way towards High Camp. The route crosses snowfields and glacier terrain before reaching a spectacular campsite with panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse and Lhotse.
Overnight at High Camp.
Day 12: Summit Mera Peak (6,461m) and Descend to Khare | Approx. 10-12 Hours (B L D)
Today is the highlight of the expedition. Begin before dawn and ascend gradually across the glacier towards the summit. The final section involves a steeper snow slope where fixed ropes may be used depending on conditions.
From the summit of Mera Peak, enjoy one of the finest mountain panoramas in the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and Kangchenjunga. Now descend carefully via High Camp and continue to Khare for the night.
Day 13: Contingency Day (B L D)
An additional day is reserved in case poor weather, route conditions or acclimatisation requirements delay the summit attempt. If not required, this day can be used for rest or to begin the descent earlier.
Day 14: Trek Khare - Kothe (3,691m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Retrace your route down the Hinku Valley, enjoying lower altitudes and increasingly lush landscapes.
Overnight in Kothe.
Day 15: Trek Kothe - Thuli Kharka (4,300m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Climb steadily through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows towards Thuli Kharka, a scenic ridge-top settlement with excellent mountain views.
Overnight in Thuli Kharka.
Day 16: Cross Zatrwa La Pass (4,600m) and Trek to Lukla | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Cross the scenic Zatrwa La Pass, the final high point of the trek. Weather permitting, enjoy impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks before descending to Lukla. Celebrate the successful completion of your Mera Peak expedition.
Overnight in Lukla.
Day 17: Fly Lukla - Kathmandu (B)
Return by mountain flight to Kathmandu. Depending on seasonal flight operations, travel may involve a flight to Manthali followed by a drive to Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is free for relaxation, sightseeing or souvenir shopping.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 18: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, bringing your Mera Peak climbing adventure to an end.
Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, route conditions, acclimatisation requirements, climbing schedules, group pace or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Additional Information
Climbing Grade: Alpine PD (Peak Climbing with Basic Mountaineering Skills Required)
Permit Required: Mera Peak Climbing Permit, Makalu Barun National Park Permit and Local Area Permit
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1-night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- Porters
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
Similar Trips
FAQs for Mera Peak Climbing
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
29 Days Days
Everest Region
Strenuous/Difficult
