Mera Peak Climbing
Nepal's highest trekking peak, and a five-8,000er summit view
Duration
17 Days
Max Altitude
6,461 m / 21,190 ft (Mera Peak summit)
Best Season
March–May & September–November
Group Size
2–8 (private trips available)
Overview
At 6,461 m, Mera Peak is the highest of Nepal's classified "trekking peaks," yet is technically more straightforward than Island Peak — mostly a glacier walk on moderate-angle snow slopes rather than a steep fixed-rope headwall, making it a good first true-altitude summit for fit trekkers. The approach through the remote, forested Hinku valley is a highlight in its own right, seeing far fewer trekkers than the main Khumbu trails, and the summit delivers one of the widest panoramas in Nepal — five 8,000 m peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Cho Oyu.
Trip Highlights
- Nepal's highest trekking peak, with views of five 8,000 m mountains from the summit
- A quieter approach through the remote, forested Hinku valley
- Technically more straightforward than Island Peak — a glacier walk, not a headwall climb
- Genuine high-altitude mountaineering experience with full climbing support
- Crosses the Zatrwa La pass on the return route
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu
Airport pickup and climbing gear check.
Day 2
Fly to Lukla, trek to Chutanga
Alternate flight/trailhead into the Hinku valley approach.
Day 3
Cross Zatrwa La to Thuli Kharka
Cross the pass (4,610 m) into the Hinku valley.
Day 4
Trek to Kothe
Descend into the forested Hinku valley.
Day 5
Trek to Thangnak
Continue up-valley toward the glacier.
Day 6
Acclimatization in Thangnak
Day hike to Dig Kharka viewpoint.
Day 7
Trek to Khare
Reach Khare (5,045 m), the climb's staging village.
Day 8
Climbing training day
Practice with crampons, ice axe and rope technique on the glacier.
Day 9
Trek to Mera High Camp
Move up to High Camp (5,800 m).
Day 10
Summit climb and descend to Khare
Pre-dawn summit push on Mera Peak (6,461 m), descend same day.
Day 11
Contingency day
Weather buffer for the summit attempt.
Day 12
Trek to Kothe
Begin the descent back down the Hinku valley.
Day 13
Trek to Thuli Kharka
Continue the descent.
Day 14
Cross Zatrwa La to Lukla
Return crossing to Lukla.
Day 15
Fly to Kathmandu
Morning flight back to Kathmandu.
Day 16
Kathmandu buffer day
Contingency for flight delays.
Day 17
Departure
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Cost Includes
- Airport transfers
- Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu flights
- Licensed guide & climbing Sherpa
- Porter service
- Teahouse/camping accommodation
- All climbing equipment and permits
Cost Excludes
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance (incl. high-altitude rescue)
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Personal climbing clothing
- Tips
Permits Required
- Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit
- Mera Peak Climbing Permit (NMA)
Mera Peak Climbing — FAQs
Mera Peak is technically easier (mostly a glacier walk) but reaches higher altitude; Island Peak is more technical (a steeper fixed-rope headwall) but slightly lower. We're happy to talk through which suits your fitness and goals.
