14 Apr 2020 Prakash Devkota
At an altitude of 6476 meters, Mera Peak Climbing is popular among all the climbers of all levels. It is a great spot for beginners as it is not that difficult and provides a great experience. Also, the expert climbers also love the Mera Peak climb because of the interesting and exciting routes and the views that the climb provides.
With five of the world’s tallest mountains in its periphery, Mera Peak Climbing is popular for the great views along with the climbing experience.
Wondering what Mera Peak Climbing Permits are required for this adventurous journey? Well, the Mera Peak permits depend on the routes you decide to take. Also, the Mera Peak Climbing Permit costs depend on the time of the year you decide to make this climb.
The Mera peak climbing permits are put in place by the government of Nepal in order to protect the exotic flora and fauna of the region. Also, the natural beauty of the region is preserved because of these permits. So take these permits seriously as there are legal actions against those who do not abide by the rules of the region.
The 18 days Mera Peak Climbing Itinerary takes you through a series of adventurous trails reaching the highest altitude of 6461 meters. No matter which route you choose to take, you will be required to pay the NMA Mera Peak Climbing permit fees. This differs based on the time of the year.
Types of Mera Peak Climbing Permits
As mentioned before, the types of climbing permit required for the Mera Peak climbing depends on the routes that you decide to take. To make things more clear, we have mentioned the different routes and the permits required to make the Mera Peak climb through those routes along with their costs.
NMA Mera peak climbing permit
As per the Nepal Mountaineering Association, you have to pay a certain amount for making the climb to Mera Peak. The NMA Mera Peak Climbing Permit cost varies as per the season and the popularity of the trek.
In spring, the skies are clear and the temperature is the most favorable for this climb so the cost for climbing the Mera Peak amounts up to USD250.
As Autumn is another peak season for Mera Peak Climbing, the cost for Mera Peak Climbing is USD125.
The winter season and summer season are considered off-seasons so the cost for climbing Mera Peak is low during these seasons. You can get the NMA Mera Peak Climbing Permit for only USD70.
Route one :
One of the most common routes for Mera Peak climbing is the 18 days Mera Peak Climbing route that takes you through Thangnak after the scenic flight from Lukla. The route then continues to Khare finally starting the trek to Mera Base Camp and Mera High Camp. traveling by this route, the Mera Peak Climbing permits required are listed below;
Local Area Permit:
First of all, you will need the local area permit for entering the region for the climb. You can get this permit at Lukla on arrival. In most cases, the company you are traveling with will have the permit ready for your climb beforehand.
This Local Area Permit costs around NRs. 2000 which is approximately USD 20.
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit:
This is another important permit for Mera peak climbing. As you enter the Makalu Barun National Park, you will get to see many exotic biodiversities of the area. They are protected under the Makalu Barun National Park so you cannot enter without a Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit. The permit is free for locals but the cost varies for foreigners.
The cost is as follows:
SAARC nationals: Nrs. 1500 (Nrs. 165 vat charge) approximately USD 15
Other nationals: Nrs. 3000 (Nrs. 390 vat charge) approximately USD 30
Route two :
Apart from the standard route for Mera Peak Climbing, you can also complete the climb from another route. The second route to Mera Peak Climbing follows the Everest Base Camp route till Namche Bazaar. Passing through Namche Bazaar, you will make your climb up to Mera Base camp and Mera High Camp, finally reaching the summit. This is an alternative trek route and the Mera Peak Climbing permit fees for this route is mentioned below:
Local Area Permit:
The Everest Base Camp route also requires the Local Area Permit for entering the Khumbu region. This permit is easily available in Lukla on arrival and will be prepared by your trekking company.
The Local Area Permit for Mera Peak Climbing costs NRs. 2000 per person which is approximately USD 20.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit:
For this Mera peak climbing route, you will have to enter the Sagarmatha National park as you take the Everest base camp route. So you will need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit as well. This Mera Peak Climbing Permit is free for locals however the permit fee for foreigners vary.
SAARC nationals: Nrs. 1500 (Nrs. 165 vat charge)which is approximately US$ 15
Other nationals: Nrs. 3000 (Nrs. 390 vat charge) which is approximately US$ 30
Documents required for the Permits
In order to obtain the permits, you will require certain documents along with the fees. The documents required for the Mera Peak Climbing permits are listed below:
- 2 passport-sized photos each for the permits
- A photocopy of your passport for both permits
- Accurately filled forms for the permits
- The permits costs should be paid in Nepali currency so carry enough for the Mera Peak Climbing Permit fees.
- Travel insurance is highly recommended for any high altitude climbs as helicopter rescues are funded by this insurance.
Important Tips Regarding The Permits
- All of the Mera Peak Climbing Permits are not refundable or transferable. They can only be used once by the designated person to enter the areas mentioned on the permit.
- As soon as you enter the National Park or any Conservation Area that is protected under the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act 2029 B.S., you must abide by the rules and regulations of the act. You may be legally charged or fined in case of breaking these rules and regulations. So please behave accordingly.
- The Mera Peak climbing permits are very important throughout your trek. You should place them safely as the concerned personnel can check your permits during your climb. If you fail to show them the permits, you may be kicked out of the region. So keep your permits with you all the time.
- Entry permits are to be issued and obtained from the entry points of the area. Like the Khumbu, entry passes are issued in Lukla while entering the Khumbu region.
Similar articles you may like:
- Mera Peak Climbing Cost
- Training for Mera Peak Climbing – 10 Essential Things
- Mera Peak versus Island Peak
Best time for Mera Peak Climbing
Mera Peak Climbing is not a difficult journey but it is very adventurous as you summit the Mera Peak at an altitude of 6461 meters. The climb is not technical so it is great practice for beginners. The trek is beautiful all year round but is especially popular in the Autumn and Spring season.
In the months of March to May when spring flourishes, many tourists visit this region for the climb. The exotic beauty of the flora and fauna, the greenery and the clear skies with great weather make the climb much more exciting.
Also during the months of October to November when the autumn season makes the leaves change color and the weather is clear and great views of the mountains are clearly seen, the tourist traffic increases.
The months of December to February may be a bit cold but with proper gear and preparation, you can have a great adventure in this climb.
Mera Peak Climbing Itinerary Outline
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and get transferred to the hotel
Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and preparation
Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla flight and trek to Phakding
Day 4: Trek from Chhuthang to Tuli Kharka for 5-6 hours via Zatrawala Pass
Day 5: Trek 6-7 hours from Tuli Kharka to Kothe
Day 6: Trek 4-5 hours from Kothe to Thangnak
Day 7: Trek 5-6 hours from Thangnak to Khare
Day 8: Acclimatization at Khare
Day 9: Trek 3-4 hours to Mera Base Camp
Day 10: Trek 3-4 hours to Mera High Camp
Day 11: Summit to Mera Peak and descend to Khare
Day 12: Reserve day in case of bad weather
Day 13: Trek back for 5-6 hours from Khare to Kothe
Day 14: Trek for 5-6 hours from Kothe to Tuli Kharka
Day 15: Trek 6 hours from Tuli Kharka to Lukla via Zatrawala Pass
Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu flight
Day 17: Free day in Kathmandu
Day 18: Farewell dinner and final departure from Kathmandu
Similar Climbs in the Region:
Some Basic Things you Should Know for Mera Peak Climbing
What is the highest altitude we will be reaching?
The highest altitude we will be reaching during our Mera Peak Climbing is 6461 meters at the summit of Mera Peak.
What does the total estimated Mera Peak Climbing permit cost?
Including the National Park Permits and the Local Area Entry Permit, the total estimated Mera Peak Climbing permit fees amount up to approximately USD 50. Also based on the time of the year you decide to make the climb, the NMA fees increase or decrease. So your total permit fees may range from USD 120-USD300.
How much does Mera Peak Climbing cost?
With the standard 18-days Mera Peak Climbing itinerary, the cost for the Mera Peak Climbing package ranges from USD 2255 per person.
Is carrying oxygen cylinders required for the climb?
No,you do not need to be carrying an oxygen cylinder with you for the climb. The climb may take you to high altitudes, but the oxygen is not thin enough for you to be needing cylinders.
What is the maximum number of members in a group?
The maximum number of members in a group allowed by the Nepal Mountaineering Association is 15.
Is Mera peak climbing a technical climb?
No Mera Peak climbing is not a technical climb so you do not need to worry about the technical training. It is an easy climb.
Do I need prior experience?
No, this climb is great for beginners. Many beginners take the Mera peak climb for experience and practice. So you do not need prior experience. However, you will need some physical training before the climb to improve your stamina.
Is there a high chance of altitude sickness?
As you reach an altitude of above 6000 meters, there is a high chance of altitude sickness. However, with proper acclimatization and proper diet, you can minimize those chances. Also carrying altitude sickness medicines with you at all times helps suppress the symptoms.
Where do I get my Mera Peak Climbing Permits?
The entry permit required for this climb can be obtained from the entry points of the region. This can be easily obtained as long as you have all the required documents.
Also as per the national park entry permit, you can also get that easily at the entrance gate of the national park.
Do I need Nepalese currency?
Yes, for the entry permits, Nepalese currency is a must. You can exchange the currency in the city as there are many exchange centers. Also if you are traveling with a trekking company they will prepare the permits for you so you won’t need the currency exchange hassle. But it is always handy to have some local currency in hand.
What is the age requirement for the climb?
The Government of Nepal has declared that children under the age of 18 are not eligible for the climb. So anyone under the age of 18 cannot make this climb as they are forbidden for the climbing permits.
What are the emergency protocols for the climb?
In case of any mishaps or emergency, you will be rescued by helicopter at once to the nearest hospital. The helicopter will be covered by your insurance.
Is insurance necessary?
Yes, insurance is a must during these high altitude climbs. In case of any emergencies, your insurance will be used to fund your rescues be it helicopter rescue or any other kind of rescues. So make sure to get proper reliable insurance before your journey.
In conclusion, Mera Peak Climbing is an easy climb which is great for beginners to gain some experience along with some great views. Acquiring the Mera Peak Climbing permits is an important task and an easy one. So make sure to get your permits before embarking on this beautiful and adventurous climb. Also, it may be an easy climb but precautions and safety measures are a must. I hope you have a great time during your Mera peak climb.
For more travel details, please feel free to contact us.
Prakash Devkota
Managing Director and Team Leader
Mr. Prakash Chandra Devkota is an established name in the Tourism Sector in Nepal. He is a focused individual gifted with a brilliant mind. He is also hugely dedicated to social work. Born in the Gorkha district, a beautiful hilly region of Nepal, he first entered the tourism industry as a guide in 1997. He has gained extensive experience in almost all the trekking and climbing routes like Mera, Island, Lobuche and, Ama Dablam, etc.
He registered Nepal Guides Treks & Expedition in 2009 AD. Due to his passion for adventure and efforts to provide quality personalized service to his clients, he has established himself as a successful tourism entrepreneur. He has dedicated most of his time working diligently to elevate the tourism industry and collected more than 15 years of experience in organizing trekking and expeditions in Nepal, Bhutan, and India. He believes in the power of the tourism industry and the employment opportunities that can be created through it. He constantly looks for innovative ways to run the company.
Mr. Devkota has always been an avid practitioner of eco-friendly tourism and has always promoted environmental conservation throughout his career. He motivates his staff to embrace eco-friendly tourism through responsible tourism practices. He believes promoting eco-tourism will preserve natural resources and positively impact the environment.
