Mera Peak, standing tall at 6,476 meters (21,247 feet) is one of the most sought-after trekking peaks in Nepal. Situated in the Khumbu Region of Nepal, Mera Peak offers a […]
Mera Peak, standing tall at 6,476 meters (21,247 feet) is one of the most sought-after trekking peaks in Nepal. Situated in the Khumbu Region of Nepal, Mera Peak offers a unique blend of adventure, stunning views, and a sense of achievement. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a trekking enthusiast looking for your next challenge, Mera Peak is an excellent choice. Mera Peak Climbing is a perfect choice for inexperienced climbers to experience peak climbing in Nepal providing adequate acclimatization along the trail.
Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal, making it a significant accomplishment for any climber. The ascent to the summit leads travelers through secluded valleys, lush forests, and picturesque Sherpa communities, providing an enriching cultural experience throughout the journey. Therefore, it’s not just an adrenaline experience but also offers traditional and cultural insights along the trip.
The climb itself is challenging but achievable for those with a good level of fitness and determination. Upon reaching the summit, climbers are rewarded with stunning views of five of the highest peaks in the world: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga. To be more precise, the Mera Peak consists of three distinct summits, each exceeding 6000 meters in height: Mera North at 6467 meters, Mera South at 6065 meters, and Mera Center at 6461 meters, with Mera Center being the most favored option among climbers.
Being the highest trekking peak in Nepal, Mera Peak is classified as a climbing peak by the Nepal Mountaineering Association, meaning that climbers must obtain a permit before beginning their ascent from Khare. Whereas, as the trail also passes through the Sagarmatha National Park, trekkers will also require the Sagarmatha National Park permit for Mera Peak Climbing.
Getting back to the history of climbing Mera Peak, the first successful ascent of Mera Peak by Col. Jimmy Roberts and his expedition party in 1953 pioneering the Mera Peak Climbing history. A French expedition team commanded by Marcel Jolly, G. Baus, and L. Honnis successfully conquered the North Mera in 1975. They used the same path to ascend the north peak but descended along the connecting ridge to reach the summit. Ever since then, thousands of peak climbing enthusiasts have embarked on the journey of climbing Mera Peak every year.
During our journey, we will trek in the Everest region of Nepal adjoining the lower section of the Makalu Barun Conservation Area. The journey to Mera Peak begins with a scenic and adrenaline flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airstripe which is often recognized as the world’s hilarious airports situated in a small town nestled in the mountains. From Lukla, the trek starts with a gradual ascent through the Hinku Valley which is comparatively less populated than the main Everest Base Camp trail, offering a peaceful and remote trekking experience.
The trail passes through dense rhododendrons and pine forests, crossing suspension bridges over roaring rivers. You’ll trek through small Sherpa villages like Chutanga and Khare, where you can experience the local culture and hospitality. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged and barren, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. This trail is ideal for novice climbers who want to explore off-the-beaten-path and acclimatize to challenging terrain. Along the way, you’ll get to see the pristine natural beauty and encounter a variety of climates, plants, animals, and quaint little towns. Once at the summit, the route back to Lukla takes the upper trail via conquering Zatrwa La.
Getting to the summit of the Mera Peak is a gradual performance which requires several days of trekking and acclimatization. To ensure a successful ascent, it is programmed wisely classifying the trekking and climbing duration. After several days of trekking, you’ll reach Mera Base Camp which is situated at 5,300 meters (17,388 feet). From the base camp, it’s a short but steep climb to High Camp, located at 5,800 meters (19,029 feet). High Camp is the final stop before the summit push, and the views from here are truly awe-inspiring.
The summit push typically begins in the early hours of the morning, around 2:00 or 3:00 AM. Climbing in the dark might be challenging, but it allows you to reach the summit by sunrise. The ascent is gradual, but the high altitude and cold temperatures make it physically demanding. The final section involves a steep climb up a snow-covered slope, requiring the use of crampons and an ice axe.
Tackling the challenges and experiencing the adrenaline sense of adventure, we reach the dizzy heights of Mera Peak. Standing on the summit of Mera Peak is a moment of pure exhilaration. The 360-degree view from the top is nothing short of spectacular, with Mount Everest and other Himalayan giants rising above the clouds. It’s a humbling and unforgettable experience, one that makes all the effort and preparation worthwhile.
After taking in the views that will last in your memories forever and snapping some photos, you’ll begin the descent back to High Camp and then to Mera Base Camp. The descent can be just as challenging as the ascent so it is important to keep it slow and stay focused.
The best time to climb Mera Peak is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. The months of April to May and September to November offer the best weather conditions, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. During these times, the views are spectacular, and the trail is at its most beautiful. However, it’s important to be prepared for cold temperatures at higher altitudes, especially at night. It is not recommended to plan the Mera Peak Climbing during winter because the trails can be freezing cold and blocked with massive snowfall. Whereas, the monsoon season has a high risk of slippery-trail and various natural calamities like landslides.
Even though it is considered a beginner-friendly trekking peak in Nepal, climbing Mera Peak requires good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience. While technical climbing skills are not necessary, it’s essential to be comfortable with long days of walking and to have some experience at high altitudes. Cardiovascular training, such as running, cycling, and swimming, can help improve your endurance. Additionally, incorporating strength training exercises like squats and lunges can prepare your legs for the steep ascents and descents.
Similarly, planning the itinerary with adequate acclimatization is another critical factor in a successful climb. It’s recommended to take a gradual approach to gain altitude, allowing your body time to adjust to the thinner air. Nepal Mountain Guide offers the Mera Peak Itinerary which includes sufficient acclimatization days to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness. And our highly skilled trekking guide and Sherpas with oodles of climbing experience have 100% successful ascend records. Hence, if you are planning to Climb Mera Peak, please feel free to get in touch with us for further information and planning.