22 Feb 2024 Prakash Devkota
Are you dreaming of making an expedition to Mera Peak from Lukla? If yes, then you are in the right place. We, Peak Climbing Nepal, facilitate the climbers and trekkers worldwide in this extremely exhilarating journey of Mera Peak climbing from Lukla. Join us to make your dream come true, where your determination to conquer the summit joins forces with our guidance and expertise.
You will decide your own route from various parts of the world to arrive at Lukla in order to start your climbing expedition. Our guides and porters will be waiting for you at Lukla. Upon rendezvous with them, you will finally start to walk on the trails that will connect you to the summit of Mera Peak. You will walk the trails alongside the Dudh Koshi River, which will open up to the pastureland in Chhuthang. Transversing the forest of rhododendrons and pines, you will ascend the steep sections of the Zatrawala Pass. Upon reaching the top of the pass, you will be welcomed by the panoramic views of Lumdung Himal, Karyolang Peak, Kongdi Ri, and Numbur Himal.
Soaking in the peaceful ambiance, you will walk deeper into the Hinku Valley, passing Tuli Kharka through the ridgeline of the Hinku River. Heading west with the trail, you will reach the beautiful village of Kothe, nestled at the bank of the Hinku River. Enjoying the close-up view of Mera Peak, you will climb uphill by the side of a river to reach Khare. Since you have risen to a reasonable altitude, it’s time to acclimatize.
Fulfilling your sweet cravings at German Bakery in Khare, you will push yourself towards Mera High Camp. Some sections of the high camp may be covered in snow, so it is time to use your snow gear and equipment. Attempting to reach the summit, you will head out early in the morning from high camp. You will follow the guidelines and footmarks of our guides and porters throughout the climb. Once you reach the summit of Mera Peak, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the mountains, including Nuptse, Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga. If you cannot reach the summit on the designed day due to any reason, don’t worry. We have allocated an extra day as a reserved summit day.
After summiting the Mera Peak, you will retrace your path back, passing Khare, Kothe, Tuli Kharka, and finally to Lukla via Zatrawala Pass. After making your way back to Lukla, you will finally complete your thrilling journey of Mera Peak from Lukla
Highlights
- Conquering the summit of the Mera peak
- Explore the Himalayan wilderness amidst the dramatic landscape of the Hinku Valley
- Close-up view of the five highest peaks in the world- Everest(8,848m), Makalu8,481m), Lhotse(8,516m), Cho Oyu(8,201m), and Kanchenjunga(8,586m)
- Discover the unique culture and tradition of the people inhabiting the Khumbu region
- Cross one of the highest passes in Nepal -Zatrawala Pass
- Easy-grade climbing routes with a straightforward climb
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Lukla(2,840m/9,318ft) Through Various Mediums and Uphill Trek Till Chhuthang
Day 02: Chhuthang to Tuli Kharka(4,300m/14,107ft) by Crossing Zatrawala Pass
Day 03: Trek From Tuli Kharka to Kothe (3,691m/12,109ft)
Day 04: Trek From Kothe to Thangnak (4,358m/14,297ft)
Day 05: Reach Khare(5,045m/16,486ft) From Thangnak
Day 06: Rest at Khare
Day 07: Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780m/18,958ft)
Day 08: Reserve Day in Case of Bad Weather
Day 09: Summit Mera Peak [6461m/21192ft] and Descend to Khare
Day 10: Trek Back From Khare to Kothe
Day 11: Trek From Kothe to Tuli Kharka
Day 12: Trek From Tuli Kharka to Lukla via Zatrawala Pass(4,600m/15,092ft)
Note: If you want to know what a typical day on the trail of Mera Peak from Lukla looks like, then you can have a detailed itinerary in our package article on Mera Peak Climbing.
Packing List
While planning to embark on the Mera Peak Climbing, one of the crucial things that shouldn’t be overlooked is packing gear and equipment. Though it is recommended for you to pack light, you shouldn’t miss out on essential things. If you pack right, it can make your journey smooth and comfortable, but if you are underprepared in terms of packing, then it can make your expedition a total chaotic mess.
Clothing
- Poly liner trek gloves and fleece gloves
- Woolen beanie, sun hat
- Pair of mittens
- Thick thermals
- Fleece jackets and trousers
- Hiking shorts
- Breathable fabric pants
- Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants
- Extra pair of socks and undergarments
- Gaiters
Shoes
- Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots with spare laces
- Sandals
- Rigid soles mountaineering boots
Accessories and Essentials
- First aid box with basic medicines
- Sunglasses for UV protection
- Wet wipes, toilet paper, Trekking towel
- Backpack, Duffle bags
- waterproof pack cover
- Camera, chargers
- Climbing pack for summit pushes
- Trekking poles
- Sunscreen with high SPF, Lip balm
- Personal toiletries
- Hygiene products
- Sleeping bags
- High-energy snacks and meals
- Water purification tablets
Gears and Equipment
- Ice axe, crampons
- Climbing Harnesses, Ascender/Jhumar, Rope
- Tape slings
- Karabiners
- Ice hammer
- Ice screw
- Snow bar
- Helmets
- Plastic mountaineering boots
In case you want to be more sure about the packing list, then you can follow the essential climbing gear and equipment guide to have more information on what things you should pack. However, it can be a hassle to bring all clothing and gear from your country. Therefore, we have included a few essential things in our package. The things that we have not included in the package can be rented out from us. You will have to pay about an extra USD 180 to rent out the necessary gear and equipment.
If you have any confusion about the age limit, itinerary, or other things, then feel free to reach out to us. You can either use our official website or directly message us on WhatsApp.
Best Season for Mera Peak From Lukla
Choosing the right time of the year plays a vital role in making your expedition successful. Usually, spring(March to May) and autumn(September to November) seasons are considered to be ideal times for attempting Mera Peak from Lukla. Both seasons offer an incredibly pleasant atmosphere for climbing. The warm weather with stable temperatures enhances your trekking as well as climbing experience.
Spring season, usually known for its greenery and blooming, raises the temperature of the Mera region, ranging between 10°C to 15°C during daytime. However, the temperature during morning and night can drop to -4 degrees Celsius. As nature unfolds its beauty from the blanket of snow, the whole Hinku Valley will be dancing to the rhythm of spring. The wildflowers’ like orchids and primroses, will bloom in a dramatic way between the cliffs. The rhododendron bloom amidst the lush green forest adds a different charm to the region. Moreover, after waking up from hibernation, wildlife will be busy exploring the allure of nature.
Likewise, the autumn season also has a specialty of its own. When the monsoon rain washes off all clouds and mists, skies will relish its blue color. You can have unobstructed views of the Himalayan panorama throughout your journey. The daytime temperature of the region will hover around 8°C to 12°C. However, the temperature during morning and night can easily drop to minus degrees, featuring a chilly breeze. The vegetation turns into red and golden hues, along with gushing rivers and streams, captivates the heart of many trekkers to conquer the Mera Peak from Lukla.
Even if you are embarking on this thrilling journey during these time frames, you will need to pack the right clothing and gear, mainly during the start of spring( early March) and the end of autumn(Late November). The beginning weeks of March will not have warm temperatures as winter has not left the grip in the Mera region. At the same time, during late November, there is the possibility of slight snowfall since winter is knocking on the door of the Mera region.
How Difficult Is Mera Peak Climbing From Lukla?
Nepal Mountaineering Association has categorized Mera Peak as one of the trekking peaks in Nepal. Previously, this peak was graded as Alpine Grade F due to its easy climbing with some rock scrambling. However, there has been some glacial change in snowy sections during recent times. Moreover, the last few meters of the snowy dome near the summit require technical climbing. Hence, the difficulty level of the Mera Peak climbing was upgraded to Alpine Grade PD.
What Are the Factors That Have Raised the Difficulty Level of Mera Peak From Lukla?
Altitude Gain
Although the ascend of the Mera Peak is pretty straightforward with less strenuous climb, elevating it to an enormous height of more than 6000 m should not be underestimated. Starting your journey at Lukla, you will slowly rise to a higher altitude, passing Zatrawala Pass(4600 m), Khare(5045 m), and finally, the summit of Mera Peak(6461 m).
During these elevations, the level of oxygen in the air decreases and finally drops to 43% at the top of the summit. When your body cannot adapt to the dropping oxygen level, it will suffer from the pathological effect known as altitude sickness. AMS can be vulnerable, leading to High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) when it is not treated at the right time. So, you should not ignore the indications of your body like vomiting, insomnia, shortness of breath, nausea, etc. Additionally, you should keep yourself hydrated and take the journey at a slow pace. At the same time, you should let your body acclimatize and have a good diet and enough sleep.
Technical Segment
Mera Peak climbing is considered to be a non-technical adventurous climb with a straightforward climbing route. However, there are a few segments that require basic mountaineering skills with the use of gears and equipment. The last 40- 50 meters distance from the summit is a snow dome section where you will have to ascend with the help of a jumar and fixed rope. Similarly, a few glacial segments require you to overcome them with the help of harnesses and karabiners.
So, tackling these technical segments and glacial paths can be quite challenging for you, especially if you are a budding climber. However, you will take part in practice sessions where you wil learn the use of gears and some climbing techniques which will boost your confidence while climbing the peak.
Weather Factor
Weather in the mountains is notorious for changing in the blink of an eye, mainly during the off-season. During the monsoon season(June to August), the Khumbu region will experience heavy downpours, with temperatures fluctuating between 15°C to 22°C. The heavy rainfall makes the trails wet, and the risk of landscapes and floods in the region will increase. Additionally, the clouds and mist playing hide and seek can make the visibility poor during the climb.
Likewise, the winter season (December to February) has the remorseless freezing temperature dropping to more than -30 degrees Celsius above the base camp. The trails will be covered in snow with the increased possibility of snow winds, blizzards, and avalanches. The teahouses and lodges will be closed during winter as the owners will migrate to lower elevations to avoid the winter cold. Hence, weather factors should be considered before you plan your journey.
Rugged Trekking Routes
During your entire journey of Mera Peak from Lukla, you will have to cover approximately 125 km. To cover such distance, you will have to hike for about 6 to 7 hours daily to cover an average distance of 9 km per day. Trekking on the rugged terrains while walking back and forth on the steep uphills can test your wits. Moreover, you will have to cross some of the highest passes while carrying heavy luggage on the back. As you progress towards the climbing sections, you will have to make your way through the glacial moraines, icy steeps, and rocky segments.
Is Mera Peak From Lukla Suitable for Me?
After considering the difficulty factors, you may be in a dilemma about your expedition to Mera Peak from Lukla. Keep your worries aside since the Mera Peak Climbing is a moderately difficult climb, which might be perfect for your introductory mountain voyage. The trails are not strenuous on this semi-technical mountain. So, even a budding climber with no prior mountaineering experience can easily embark on this journey. However, you need to possess some high-altitude trekking with some basic mountaineering skills to make this climbing comfortable and easy.
Furthermore, if you are an experienced climber, then this peak can be a practice climb for attempting the 7000 and 8000 mountain classes. Since you will have to trek on average 6 to 7 hours with grueling 8 to 9 hours while pushing to the summit, you need to have a good level of physical fitness and mental endurance. At the same time, you need to have adaptability skills as you are traversing to a region where infrastructures and facilities are basic to moderate. Moreover, if you have any health issues related to the heart, lungs, or joints, then it is better to consult with your doctor first. Furthermore, you should not have any unrealistic expectations while making this expedition, as unrealistic expectations can negatively impact your overall experience.
What Are the Permits That I Need to Acquire to Conquer Mera Peak From Lukla?
It is very necessary to acquire permits if you want to complete this journey legally. Yes, you heard it right, permits. You will need to obtain three permits- a local area permit, a Makalu Barun National Park permit, and an NMA Mera Peak climbing permit.
You will need to have access to the local area. For that, you will need a local area permit. You can acquire this permit at Lukla for approximately about Nrs. 2000( around USD 20).
Since Kothe, Thagnak, Khare, and Mera Base Camp fall under the Makalu Barun National Park area, you will need a Makalu Barun National Park Permit to have access to these regions. It will cost Nrs 3000 per person ( app USD 30) for foreign nationals other than SAARC nationals. For SAARC nationals, it will cost Nrs 1500 per person( app USD 15) and Nrs 100 per person for Nepali citizens.
Nepal Mountaineering Association has applied a season cost basis for the Mera Peak Climbing Permit. During the peak season of spring, this permit will cost around USD 250 per person for foreign nationals. If you are a Nepali citizen, then you can acquire this permit at Nrs. 4000 per person.
Likewise, during autumn, the climbing permit will cost USD 125 per person for foreign nationals and Nrs 2000 per person for Nepali citizens.
In the off-season of winter and monsoon, the NMA Mera Peak climbing permit will cost around USD 70 per person for foreign nationals and Nrs. 1000 for Nepali citizens.
Check out these related articles:
Mera Peak Trek Cost and Itinerary
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.
