Mera Peak is widely-regarded as the highest trekking peak in Nepal.
The trek is suited for experienced high altitude trekkers but does not require technical climbing skills. Slopes rarely exceed 40 degrees. It is an Alpine Grade F – easy – except for the final 30 or 40 metres, which are Grade PD – not very hard. Its ease is what attracts many folk to it.
Mera Peak Trek
Route Overview
Trekking to Mera Peak (21,247 feet) will see you crossing easy glacier terrain.
Although the climbing is straightforward, it is physically demanding. Heavy snow can make things much more so, as do the potential exposure to crevasses. Use of an experienced guide is important.
From the summit of Mera Peak, you will be able to see five of the six highest mountains in the world: Everest (29,029 feet), Kanchenjunga (28,169 feet), Lhotse (27,940 feet), Makalu (27,825 feet), and Cho Oyu (26,906 feet). This is perhaps the most stunning view from a Trekking Peak in Nepal. You can see as far as India!
The most appealing feature of the Mera Peak climb is the beautiful and uninhabited Hinku Valley, which is filled with a lovely forest. You will rest under mammoth magnolias and pass immaculate forests with banks of raspberries and strawberries.
The trek takes from 16 to 22 days. Outside of Kathmandu and Lukla, you will be spending most of your nights in a tent or basic tea house. Most groups camp despite there being tea houses all along the trail, a recent phenomenon. As recently as 1994, there was no more than a yak herder’s hut at Tangnag.
Please Note
The Mera Peak Trek ascends to some high altitude points. At its highest point, mera Peak, you will reach an altitude of 6,476 meters (21,250 feet). There are steep section on this trek where you will ascend very rapidly.
Therefore, it is important to have a clear understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises to high altitude.
Regional Map
Mera Peak is situated on the edge of the Khumbu region, southeast of Everest.
Recommended Map
We recommend the following maps:
- Island Peak/Mera Peak: Climbing and Trekking Map by Sandra Greulich and Sacha Wettstein
Mera Peak Itinerary
Below is a detailed Mera Peak itinerary. Please note that there are several Mera Peak trek itineraries that can be done.
Below we have laid out the most popular version – 21 days, leaving from Kathmandu. If you want to make your own way to Lukla then you could probably organize this with your operator or guide.
Day 1-2: Kathmandu
Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla
Day 4: Lukla to Pangkongma
Day 5: Pangkongma to Nashing Dingma
Day 6: Nashing Dingma to Chalen Kharka
Day 7: Chalen Kharka to Chunbu Kharka
Day 8: Chunbu Kharka
Day 9: Chunbu Kharka to Hinku Valley
Day 10: Hinku Valley to Tangnag
Day 11: Tangnag to Hinku Nup Glacier
Day 12: Hinku Nup Glacier
Day 13: Mera Peak Base Camp
Day 14: Mera Glacier
Day 15: Mera Peak
Day 16: Summit Mera Peak
Day 17: Mera Peak
Day 18-20: Mera Peak to Lukla
Day 21: Lukla to Kathmandu
Recommended Guidebook
For a great book on Mera Peak we recommend:
- Islands in the Snow: Climbing Nepal’s Trekking Peaks by Mark Horrell
Frequently Asked Questions about Mera Peak Trek
When is the best time to trek Mera Peak?
October and November are the peak months. December and particularly January and February are mostly regarded as excessively cold. Trekking begins again in March and April, however conditions are usually less clear than in the other period, although it is less crowded.
How much does the Mera Peak Trek cost?
A Mera Peak climbing tour costs anywhere from $3,500-$5,000 per person depending on group size and tour operator. We highly recommend seeking out a quality operator – see our recommendation service below.
Are permits required for Mera Peak?
Yes. A permit costs $350 for as many as four people.
How difficult is the Mera Peak trek?
The Mera Peak trek is considered an moderately difficult trekking peak. Slopes rarely exceed 40 degrees and you will be told everything you need to know prior to climbing the actual peak. Saying this, a very good level of fitness is required and experience of trekking at high altitude is recommended, as the trek is both long and often through heavy snow.
Is altitude sickness a risk?
The Mera Peak Trek ascends to some high altitude points. At its highest point, Mera Peak, you will reach an altitude of 6,476 meters (21,250 feet). There are steep section on this trek where you will ascend very rapidly.
Therefore, it is important to have a clear understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises to high altitude. We recommend you read our detailed article on Altitude Sickness and Acclimatisation.
What gear do I need for the Mera Peak Trek?
Trekking the Mera Peak requires a number of essential pieces of trekking gear. The Mera Peak Trek is long and moderately difficult. It exposes you to a range of altitudes where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between night and day.
Much of your gear can be rented or bought in Kathmandu, but we strongly suggest bringing the most important pieces of gear and equipment with you.
To help you plan and prepare for your trek we recommend reading our gear section.
What kind of insurance do I need for the Mera Peak trek?
Hiking insurance is usually recommended for Mera Peak. If an accident or incident should occur that requires immediate medical assistance and evacuation you will most definitely want adequate hiking insurance that can cover the costs of air ambulance and treatment.
Check out World Nomads for a quick calculation of the cost of travel insurance for your trip.
