See Five of the World's Highest Mountains From One Place

Mera Peak stands at 6,476 meters and offers something truly rare: from the summit, you can see five of the world's tallest mountains in a single view. 

Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu all appear before you. This 360-degree view of the Himalayan giants is impossible to experience from almost anywhere else, making your climb about so much more than reaching one peak.

Your First Real Mountain Adventure

Unlike higher peaks that demand years of climbing experience, Mera Peak welcomes climbers who love hiking and are ready for their first mountaineering challenge. 

You'll learn everything you need—ice climbing basics, rope work, and glacier travel—right on the mountain. Many people successfully summit who have never climbed before, making it the perfect gateway to the mountains.

The trek to Mera Peak takes you through the remote Hinku and Hongu valleys, places few tourists ever visit. 

You walk through thick forests, beautiful rhododendron hillsides, and high-altitude meadows where local Sherpa communities still live their traditional lives. This isn't a crowded tourist trail—it's a real adventure through authentic mountain culture.

Achievable in Just Three Weeks

From leaving your home to summiting and returning, Mera Peak can be completed in about 16-21 days. This makes it possible to climb during your vacation time without needing months of leave. You can actually do this climb without rearranging your entire life.

Incredible Success Rates

Seven out of ten climbers reach the summit of Mera Peak. This high success rate happens because the mountain itself is forgiving—there are no dangerous technical sections, just beautiful scenery and the satisfaction of standing on a real Himalayan peak. The gradual climb helps your body adjust perfectly to the altitude.

Stand Where Few Humans Have

Reaching Mera's summit connects you to a small group of adventurers. You'll stand on a mountain that less explored than the famous peaks, feeling the raw beauty of the Himalayas without massive crowds. The moment you summit and see those five giants surrounding you is something you'll remember for life.

More Than Just Climbing

This expedition is about transformation. You'll test your limits, discover strength you didn't know you had, and connect with incredible mountain people and nature. The climb changes how you see yourself and the world—it's inspiring, challenging, and unforgettable.

Climbing Mera Peak typically costs between $19,00 and $3,000 per person. The exact price depends on several factors, but most climbers spend around $2,500-$3,500. This is affordable compared to higher peaks like Everest.

Our Fixed Departure Price: $2,400 Per Person

Climbing Mera Peak with us costs just $2,400 per person when you join our fixed departures. This is an all-inclusive price that covers virtually everything you need for your complete expedition—from the moment you land in Kathmandu until you return home. If you have a larger group, we offer discounted rates.

What's Completely Included

Your $2,400 includes absolutely everything for your Mera Peak adventure:

Getting to and From the Mountain

Your journey begins with private transportation to our hotel in Kathmandu. We arrange your round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, plus we cover all excess baggage fees so you don't worry about costs there. After your summit, we bring you back home the same way.

Your Place to Sleep

In Kathmandu, you'll stay 3 nights in a comfortable standard hotel with a bed partner and breakfast included. During the 13-day trek, you'll sleep in local lodges—real guesthouses run by Sherpa families with twin rooms, foam mattresses, and pillows. At high altitude, you'll camp in proper tents at Mera Base Camp and High Camp with everything set up for you.

All Your Food and Drinks

Every meal—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—is prepared and included throughout the entire expedition. During climbing days at high altitude, we provide all meals, plus boiled water, tea, and coffee to keep you fueled and hydrated.

Your Expert Climbing Team

You'll have experienced Sherpa climbing guides dedicated to your success and safety. For every 1-4 climbers, you get 1 guide. Larger groups have additional guides. We also provide porters—one for every two trekkers—to carry the heavy gear so you can focus on the climb.

Complete Camping Setup

All tents, sleeping bags, kitchen equipment, and cooking gear are provided. Our camping staff handles setup and takedown, leaving you to rest and recover.

Everything You Need to Climb

We supply all the serious climbing equipment: ropes, ice screws, snow bars, ice axes, crampons, helmets, harnesses, carabiners, ascenders, and everything else needed for a safe climb. You don't need to buy or rent gear separately.

All Permits and Official Documents

The price includes your Mera Peak climbing permit, the official government climbing certificate, Makalu Barun National Park fee, TIMS permit, and all government taxes. You don't handle paperwork—we take care of it.

Safety Equipment You Trust

We carry a satellite phone for emergencies and staying connected. We have a pulse oximeter to monitor your health at altitude. Our first-aid medical kit is fully stocked. If you need helicopter rescue, your travel insurance covers it, and we help arrange it.

Your Personal Climbing Gear

Everything you wear on the mountain is included: mountaineering boots, crampons, helmet, harness, ice axe, carabiners, descenders, ascenders, and slings. A duffle bag for your trekking gear is also yours to use.

Insurance for Your Team

All your Sherpa guides, porters, and support staff have personal insurance included, so you know everyone is protected.

What You Still Need to Budget For

Just a few things are your responsibility:

1. Travel Insurance: Get comprehensive travel and evacuation insurance—this is essential. Budget $300-$600. This isn't something we can include because it must be in your name through your home country.
2. Personal Items: Toiletries, medications, extra snacks, and personal supplies you prefer to bring.
3. Tips for Your Team: It's customary to tip your guides and porters at the end. Budget $200-$400—this goes directly to the people who made your expedition possible.
4. Optional Extras in Kathmandu: If you want extra nights before or after the expedition, meals not included, or sightseeing in the city, those are on you.

Group Discounts Available

Our $2,400 price is for joining our fixed departure groups. If you're bringing your own group of friends or colleagues, we offer special discounts. The larger your group, the better the rate. Contact us for a custom quote for your team.

What Makes Our Price Unbeatable

At $2,400, you're getting an expedition that includes everything other companies charge extra for. Most competitors don't provide climbing boots, crampons, or ice axes—we do. Many don't include meals at high altitude or hotel nights in Kathmandu—we do. Some charge extra for permits or guide ratios—we don't.

Your $2,400 is truly all-inclusive. You can climb Mera Peak without worrying about hidden costs or surprises.

Why This Investment Changes Your Life

You're not just paying for a mountain climb. You're investing in:

• Expert guides who know these mountains like their own backyard
• Your safety and success with proper equipment and support
• An adventure that tests your limits and shows you what you're capable of
• Connection with authentic Sherpa culture and mountain communities
• Memories that will stay with you forever
• Personal transformation that makes you see yourself differently

For most people, climbing Mera Peak is one of the most meaningful experiences of their lives. That's worth far more than $2,400.

Mera Peak is challenging, but it's not as hard as most people think. It's rated as a slightly difficult climb, not technical or extreme. If you're fit and motivated, you can do it—even if you've never climbed a mountain before.

The truth is simple: most people who attempt Mera Peak with good preparation succeed. Seven out of ten climbers reach the summit. That's an amazing success rate that shows this mountain is achievable for ordinary people.

Regular people summit Mera Peak all the time. Accountants, teachers, office workers, people in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. People who've never climbed before. People who were scared at the beginning but pushed through and succeeded.

The common thread? They prepared well, stayed mentally strong, listened to their guides, and didn't give up when things got hard.

The Real Challenge: Altitude, Not Technical Skill

The main difficulty isn't climbing rocks or ice—it's the altitude. At 6,476 meters, the air is thin and oxygen is scarce. Your body feels the difference immediately. You'll breathe harder, move slower, and tire more quickly than you expect.

But here's the good news: your body can adapt. With time and the right acclimatization schedule, most people adjust well. Our 18-21 day expedition gives your body plenty of time to gradually acclimatize, which is the real secret to success.

What Makes It Physically Hard

The trek to Mera Peak is about 78 miles total. You'll walk 4-6 hours most days through challenging terrain—some steep hills, glaciers, and snow. You'll carry a backpack weighing 6-15 kilograms. Your legs will feel tired. Your lungs will work harder.

Summit day is the toughest. From High Camp, it takes 8-9 hours of continuous climbing to reach the top. You'll be tired, cold, and the air will be thin. But thousands of people do it every year—people just like you.

The Technical Part Is Minimal

Unlike harder mountains, Mera Peak doesn't require extensive climbing experience. You'll use ice axes and crampons, but you don't need to be an expert. Our guides teach you what you need to know. Many people learn these skills right on the mountain during the expedition.

You don't need to rock climb. You don't need years of mountaineering training. The mountain is mostly straightforward—just steep snow and glacier walking.

What Actually Stops People

The biggest reasons climbers don't summit aren't fear or exhaustion—it's altitude sickness and bad weather. Some people's bodies struggle with altitude, causing headaches, nausea, or dizziness. If this happens, the right response is to descend and recover.

Weather can also prevent summit attempts. Snowstorms, high winds, or clouds can make the climb impossible for safety reasons. But this is why our guides monitor forecasts carefully and keep extra days in the schedule for weather delays.

Who Can Do This?

You don't need to be an experienced climber. You don't need to be young or super athletic. What you need is:

1. Good fitness level: You should be comfortable walking for 4-6 hours on hills and rough terrain. If you can hike for several hours without stopping, you're on the right track.
2. Mental toughness: Mera Peak tests your mind more than your body. It's mentally hard to keep going when you're tired and the air is thin. But mental strength can be developed.
3. Realistic expectations: Understand this will be hard. You'll be uncomfortable at times. But discomfort isn't danger—it's just part of the adventure.
4. Proper preparation: Train for 2-3 months before the climb. Do cardio exercise, hike on hills, build leg strength.

The Mental Challenge

The hardest part might be in your head. You'll feel isolated in a remote mountain region. You'll experience fear—fear of the altitude, fear of failure, fear of the unknown. This is normal and expected.

But here's what makes the difference: a good support team. Our experienced guides have summited this mountain dozens of times. They know how you'll feel. They've helped hundreds of people through this exact moment. You're never alone.

Why It's Worth the Difficulty

Yes, Mera Peak is hard. Your legs will hurt. You'll be tired. You might struggle with altitude. You might face bad weather.

But when you stand on that summit and see Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu all around you—when you look down from 6,476 meters and realize you did this—everything becomes worth it.

That moment changes you. You'll discover you're stronger than you thought. You'll realize you can push through difficulty and succeed. You'll have proof that you can do hard things.

That's why people come back from Mera Peak changed. Not because it's technical or extreme—but because they challenged themselves and won.

Climbing Mera Peak requires government permits, but here's the best part—we take care of everything for you. You don't need to worry about forms, offices, or bureaucracy. All permits are included in your expedition cost.

The Main Permits Explained Simply

Mera Peak Climbing Permit

This is the official permission from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) that allows you to climb. The cost varies by season:

• Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): Higher cost but best weather
• Winter and Summer: Lower cost but less ideal climbing conditions

We obtain this permit for you before the expedition starts.

Makalu Barun National Park Permit

Mera Peak sits inside Makalu Barun National Park. This permit gives you official access to enter the park and trek through the protected area. It's a conservation permit that helps protect the unique wildlife and environment in this remote region. This is included in your package.

TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System)

This card tracks trekking activity in Nepal. It's simple, required by the government, and helps keep trekkers safe. We get this for you.

Local Area Permit

When you arrive in Lukla, you'll get a local permit that gives you permission to trek through specific valleys and regions. This is a small local fee that supports communities you'll pass through.

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

If your route passes through certain areas, you may need access to Sagarmatha National Park (home to Everest Base Camp region). We arrange this if needed for your specific route.

What Documents You'll Need to Provide

To obtain your permits, we'll ask you for:

• A copy of your valid passport (with 6 months remaining validity)
• Two passport-sized photographs
• Your complete name and date of birth
• Emergency contact information
• Proof of travel insurance

We collect these before your trip and handle all the applications.

Garbage Deposit Fee

Nepal has strict environmental rules. There's a refundable garbage deposit fee of approximately $500 that the Nepal Mountaineering Association holds. This encourages climbers to follow environmental guidelines and bring all waste down the mountain.

Important: You get this money back after your expedition if you follow environmental protocols and provide proof that waste was properly managed.

How We Make It Easy

Our process is simple:

1. You provide documents: Send us copies of your passport and photos
2. We apply for permits: We submit applications to all necessary government offices
3. We collect permits: We gather all official documents before you arrive in Nepal
4. You're ready to climb: Everything is ready when you land in Kathmandu

You never have to visit a government office or stand in line. You never have to navigate confusing paperwork. It's all handled for you.

Timeline

Permits typically take 1-3 days to process through official channels. We apply well in advance of your expedition date, so there's never a rush or risk of delays.

Choose autumn (September-November) for the best experience. The weather is most stable, views are clearest, temperatures are most manageable, and success rates are highest. October is the single best month.

If autumn doesn't work with your schedule, spring (March-May) is an excellent alternative with nearly equal success rates, though expect more climbers on the mountain.

Avoid monsoon and winter completely unless you have extensive mountain experience and specific reasons for climbing during these seasons.

Your timing directly affects your summit success. Pick the right season, prepare well, and your dream of standing on Mera Peak becomes reality.

The Clear Winner: Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is the best time to climb Mera Peak. From September through November, the mountain offers perfect conditions that make your climb safer, more enjoyable, and dramatically increase your chance of summiting.

Why Autumn Is Best

The weather is stable and dry. The skies are crystal clear, giving you stunning views of Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu without clouds blocking your vision. The air feels fresh and crisp. Temperatures are moderate—cool enough to be comfortable while climbing, but not dangerously cold.

October is particularly special. Many consider it the absolute best month because the weather is most predictable and the mountain looks its best.

Close Second: Spring (March-May)

Spring is also excellent for climbing Mera Peak. During these months, you get stable weather with mild temperatures and clear skies. The landscape becomes beautiful as rhododendron forests bloom with vibrant colors along the trek.

The main advantage of spring is longer daylight hours, giving you more time for acclimatization and summiting. The disadvantage is that spring tends to be busier with more climbers on the mountain, so accommodations and flights get booked quickly.

Temperature Expectations by Season

Spring & Autumn (Best seasons)

• Lower elevations: 10-20°C during the day
• High altitude camps: -5°C to -15°C at night
• Conditions are manageable with proper gear

Winter (December-February)

• Lower elevations: 5-10°C during the day
• High altitude camps: -20°C or colder
• Heavy snow and extreme cold make this challenging

Monsoon/Summer (June-August)

• Heavy rain makes trails slippery and dangerous
• Clouds block views of the mountains
• High humidity and leeches create discomfort
• Landslides and avalanches are more common

Why You Should Avoid Monsoon

The monsoon season brings constant heavy rain, making trails muddy and treacherous. Clouds cover the mountains completely—you won't see Everest or any of the other peaks you came to witness. The slippery conditions increase risks of accidents. Most importantly, your chances of summit success drop dramatically.

Don't climb during June, July, or August.

Why Winter Is Too Extreme

Winter brings incredibly cold temperatures that can drop below -20°C at high altitude. Heavy snow buries the mountain, and avalanche risk increases significantly. Most importantly, darkness comes very early, limiting your climbing time.

Winter is only for experienced mountaineers with extensive high-altitude climbing experience. We don't recommend it for first-time climbers.

What We Recommend

Our fixed departures typically run in September-October and March-April. These are the optimal windows when you get the best weather, highest success rates, and the most reliable schedules.

If you're flexible with your dates, consider late September or early October. You get the clearest skies and most stable weather of the entire year.

Because spring and autumn are popular, book your expedition 3-6 months in advance. This ensures:

• Your preferred dates are available
• Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are guaranteed
• Experienced guides are reserved for your team
• High-quality lodges are secured along the trek

The Weather Warning

Even during the best seasons, mountain weather is unpredictable. A sunny morning can turn to snow and wind by afternoon. Your guide monitors forecasts constantly and makes safety decisions based on conditions.

This is why we build extra days into the expedition schedule—to wait out bad weather and attempt the summit when conditions are safest.

Crowding During Peak Seasons

Both autumn and spring attract many climbers. September-November sees higher numbers, but the good weather makes it worth the crowds. You'll meet other adventurers from around the world, which is actually part of the experience.

If you prefer solitude, autumn is still better than spring because lodges and guides are slightly more available.

Most people underestimate their capabilities. If you follow this training program, you'll arrive in Nepal stronger, more confident, and better prepared than you realize.

Thousands of ordinary people—accountants, teachers, office workers, people in their 40s and 50s—have successfully climbed Mera Peak with this approach. 

Your success depends not on being an elite athlete, but on consistent preparation and mental determination.

The better shape you're in before you arrive, the more you'll enjoy the climb and the higher your chances of summiting.

Start 3-4 Months Before

Begin training at least 3-4 months before your expedition. The better shape you're in, the more you'll enjoy the climb and the higher your chance of summiting.

Build Your Fitness

Train 4-6 days per week, combining:

1. Cardio (3-4 days): Running, cycling, swimming, or hiking for 45-60 minutes. Focus on building endurance, not speed.
2. Strength (2-3 days): Squats, lunges, step-ups, deadlifts, and core work. Strengthen your legs and core twice weekly.
3. Hiking with Backpack (1-2 days): Start with 5-8 kg and gradually increase to 12-14 kg. Do longer hikes on hills as you get stronger.

Key Training Elements

• Downhill practice: Train descending on slopes. This protects your knees during the descent.
• Flexibility: Do yoga and stretching 2-3 times weekly to prevent injuries.
• Technical skills: Familiarize yourself with ice axes and crampons before arriving. Our guides teach these skills during the expedition.
• Mental preparation: Visualize success, practice positive self-talk, and prepare mentally for discomfort and fatigue.

Sample Weekly Schedule

• Monday: 45 min strength training
• Tuesday: 60 min cardio (running or cycling)
• Wednesday: 90 min hike with weighted backpack
• Thursday: 45 min strength training
• Friday: 60 min cardio
• Saturday: 4-8 hour hike with backpack on hills
• Sunday: Rest, yoga, stretching

Before the Climb

Get medical clearance from your doctor. Two weeks before departure, reduce training intensity by 50% and focus on rest and mental preparation.

One in ten climbers experiences mild altitude sickness symptoms during Mera Peak Climbing. But with proper acclimatization, most people adapt well. The mountain's gradual route through remote valleys—not rushing directly to high altitude—is specifically designed to prevent altitude sickness.

Most people who fail to summit Mera Peak don’t get severely sick. They get mildly uncomfortable and decide to descend. That's actually the right choice. Your safety matters more than reaching the top during Mera Peak Climbing.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

At 6,476 meters, Mera Peak sits very high. The air contains much less oxygen than at sea level. Your body needs time to adjust to this thin air. Altitude sickness happens when your body hasn't adjusted yet.

The good news: it's preventable with proper acclimatization and smart climbing practices.

Recognize the Symptoms Early

Know what to watch for. Mild symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Nausea or loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue

Severe symptoms (rare but serious) include confusion, difficulty walking, or extreme weakness. Tell your guide immediately if you experience any symptoms.

The #1 Prevention Strategy: Gradual Acclimatization

The most important rule is to climb high during the day but sleep at lower elevations. After 3,000 meters altitude, daily elevation gain should not exceed 300-500 meters. This allows your body to produce more red blood cells to absorb oxygen.

Our 18-21 day expeditions build in acclimatization days at Khare (5,000m) and before High Camp. These rest days save lives and increase summit success.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily. Eat nutritious meals with carbohydrates and proteins to maintain energy and help your body fight altitude sickness.

Dehydration makes altitude sickness worse. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine—both worsen symptoms at high altitude.

Follow the "Climb High, Sleep Low" Method

During acclimatization days, hike higher during the day, then return to a lower camp to sleep. This trains your body to handle altitude without actually sleeping at dangerous heights yet.

Pace Yourself

Move slowly and steadily. Don't rush. Your guide will set a manageable pace that keeps everyone safe. If you feel the urge to move faster, resist it. A slower climber who summits is more successful than a fast climber who gets sick.

Talk to Your Doctor

Discuss medication options with your doctor before the climb:

• Diamox (Acetazolamide): This medication is effective for preventing altitude sickness and can be taken before and during the climb to help your body acclimatize
• Ibuprofen: Can help prevent mild altitude sickness
• Emergency medications: Some doctors prescribe dexamethasone for emergency situations

Work with your doctor to decide what's right for you.

What We Provide to Protect You

Our guides are trained to monitor altitude sickness signs. We carry:

• Pulse oximeter to check your oxygen levels
• First-aid medical kit
• Satellite phone for emergencies
• Extra acclimatization days built into the schedule
• Experienced guides who've climbed this mountain dozens of times

If symptoms worsen, immediate descent is always the cure.

Key Prevention Rules

✓ Climb gradually—don't ascend too fast
✓ Drink 3-4 liters of water daily
✓ Eat nutritious meals regularly
✓ Sleep at lower elevations than you climb to
✓ Take acclimatization rest days seriously
✓ Move at a slow, steady pace
✓ Tell your guide about any symptoms immediately
✓ Avoid alcohol at high altitude

All routes to Mera Peak are straightforward—not technical. The climbing route does not exceed more than 30 degrees, so you're walking and hiking rather than rock climbing. Your guides know every section and will keep you safe

The Standard Route: Lukla to Mera Peak (Most Popular)

The standard route is what most climbers choose. It starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, then treks through villages like Paiya, Panggom, and Ningsow before reaching Kothe in the beautiful Hinku Valley. From there, you trek to Khare (the main basecamp) and then to Mera High Camp before your summit day.

Duration: 16-18 days total. Our standard 17-day expedition uses this route.

The Descent Route: Zatrwa La Pass

After summiting, you don't return the same way. Instead, you descend through Thuli-Kharka and return to Lukla via the scenic Zatrwa La pass at 4,610 meters. This pass offers spectacular views of surrounding peaks and adds variety to your adventure.

Alternative Starting Points

If you prefer avoiding flights, there are options:

Khari Khola Route: Start by driving overland to Khari Khola, then trek from there. This takes longer but avoids the mountain flight. Good if you're nervous about flying or want an overland experience.

Paiya Classical Route: This is the traditional approach that's been used for decades. It's longer and takes extra acclimatization days but provides excellent preparation for the altitude.

Route Variations for Your Schedule

Shorter Option (14 days): For climbers pressed for time. The route is the same but with fewer rest days. This works if you're very fit and confident.

Longer Option (21 days): Extra acclimatization days built in. This increases your summit success rate and lets you explore more villages and valleys.

Advanced Option (21 days via Amphu Lapcha Pass): For experienced mountaineers who want added challenge. After summiting Mera Peak, you cross the technical Amphu Lapcha Pass (5,845m) in the wild Hongu Valley before descending to Lukla.

Why We Recommend Our Route

Our 17-day expedition uses the proven standard route because:

• It balances time, acclimatization, and experience
• You trek through remote valleys with spectacular mountain views
• Proper rest days at Khare basecamp give your body time to adjust
• The descent through Zatrwa La Pass is beautiful and safer
• Success rates are highest with this exact timing

You don't need to buy expensive climbing gear. Your expedition includes all major climbing equipment. We provide mountaineering boots, crampons, helmet, ice axe, harness, ascenders, carabiners, ropes, and all safety gear. You just need to bring clothing and personal items.

Climbing Equipment (Provided by Us)

• Mountaineering boots (insulated, crampon-compatible)
• Crampons (12-point with anti-balling plates)
• Ice axe
• Climbing helmet
• Harness
• Ascenders (Jumars)
• Carabiners (locking and non-locking)
• Figure-8 descender
• Prussic loops
• Climbing ropes
• Ice screws and snow bars

What You Need to Bring: Clothing

Layer your clothing for changing temperatures. Pack lightweight items that serve multiple purposes.

Upper Body

• Thermal base layers (2-3 sets): wool, silk, or synthetic that wick moisture
• Long-sleeve shirt
• Fleece or lightweight down jacket
• Expedition-weight down jacket (warm, compressible, around 800-fill)
• Windproof hard shell jacket

Lower Body

• Thermal base layer bottoms (2 sets)
• Trekking pants
• Windproof hard shell pants (with knee zips for ventilation)
• Optional: lightweight insulated pants for extra cold

Head and Hands

• Warm hat covering your ears
• Balaclava or face mask
• 2-3 pairs of gloves (thin liners, insulated mittens, and waterproof outer layer)
• Sunglasses or goggles

Feet

• 3-4 pairs thick wool socks
• Gaiters (keep snow and debris out of boots)
• Sandals or camp shoes (for lodges)

What You Need to Bring: Personal Gear

1. Backpack: 35-50 liters for daily hiking. A duffle bag is provided for gear transport.
2. Sleep System: Sleeping bag (we can rent one in Kathmandu) rated for -15°C or colder.
3. Toiletries: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, toothbrush, biodegradable soap, toilet paper, wet wipes. High altitude is dry—pack body lotion and chapstick.

Health & Safety

• Personal medications
• Blister treatment
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm
• Insect repellent (for lower elevations)
• Basic first aid items

Electronics

• Headlamp with extra batteries (for early starts and evening)
• Phone/camera (consider battery packs—charging is limited)
• Travel adapters

Documents & Money

• Passport
• Copies of permits (we provide originals)
• Cash in Nepalese rupees
• Travel insurance documents

Optional Items

• Trekking poles (reduce knee strain)
• Notebook and pen
• Entertainment (books, cards)
• Dry bags (protect electronics)

What NOT to Bring

Don't waste backpack space on:

• Unnecessary electronics (laptops, hair dryers)
• Excessive cosmetics
• Heavy guidebooks
• Multiple pairs of shoes
• Formal clothes

Keep your backpack light and manageable. Porters carry heavy gear—your daily pack should weigh only 6-12 kilograms.

Where to Buy or Rent

You can buy gear at home or rent in Kathmandu. Many climbing items (crampons, ice axes, sleeping bags) are cheaper to rent in Kathmandu ($5-$15 per item). We can arrange rentals—just let us know in advance.

Packing Tips

• Layer everything. Temperatures drop from 20°C at lower elevations to -20°C at high camps
• Use packing cubes to organize and compress clothing
• Pack heavy items close to your back, lighter items on the sides
• Keep essential items (first aid, warm layers) easily accessible
• Use dry bags to protect electronics and documents
• Don't overpack. You pay extra per additional porter if you exceed 15 kg

Footwear Matters

Your feet are critical. Mountaineering boots must be:

• Insulated for extreme cold
• Rigid enough for crampons
• Broken in before the expedition (wear them during training)
• Waterproof

We provide boots, but if you have your own quality mountaineering boots, bring them.

The Bottom Line

Your job: bring weather-appropriate clothing and personal items.

Our job: provide all climbing equipment and ensure you're safe.

This approach saves you thousands in gear purchases. You arrive with a light backpack, we outfit you with professional equipment, and you focus on the adventure instead of logistics.

Yes—It's Perfect for First-Time Climbers

Mera Peak is designed for beginners with no mountaineering experience. Seven out of ten climbers summit successfully. Thousands of first-timers—teachers, office workers, people in their 40s and 50s—have reached the top.

Why It's Beginner-Friendly

1. No Technical Climbing: The mountain is mostly walking and hiking on snow and glacier. No rock climbing required.
2. Excellent Acclimatization: Our 18-21 day expedition with extra rest days at basecamp gives your body time to adjust to altitude. Proper acclimatization is the key to success.
3. Expert Support: Experienced guides have summited dozens of times. They teach you everything you need and keep you safe.
4. Non-Technical Skills: You learn to use crampons and ice axes during the expedition. Our guides teach these skills.

What You Need

• Physical fitness: Train for 3-4 months. Be comfortable hiking 4-6 hours on hills with a backpack.
• Mental toughness: You'll be tired and cold. Mental strength carries you through.
• Realistic expectations: This is challenging but achievable with proper preparation.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Don't rush acclimatization. Skipping rest days causes altitude sickness and forces descent.

Don't climb solo. Use professional guides—they keep you safe and increase success rates.

The Bottom Line

If you're willing to train and follow your guides, you can summit Mera Peak. Most beginners who prepare properly succeed. When you stand on that summit seeing five of the world's highest mountains, you'll realize you're stronger than you thought.

Kathmandu: Culture and Preparation (3 Days)

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital. Explore ancient temples, bustling markets, and try authentic Nepali food. We'll hold a team briefing where you meet your guides and fellow climbers. Get your final gear and acclimatize to the city's energy. This is your last taste of comfort before the mountains.

The Trek Begins: Flight to Lukla (1 Day)

Take a scenic flight to Lukla in the Everest region. This small mountain airstrip sits at 2,860 meters. From here, the trek officially begins. You'll experience your first altitude as you trek through beautiful forests and meet local Sherpa communities.

Trek Through Remote Valleys (7-9 Days)

Walk through authentic villages like Paiya and Pangkongma. Pass through rhododendron forests, high meadows, and pristine wilderness. You'll see few tourists here—this is real Nepal. Each day, you trek 4-6 hours with rest days built in. Your body slowly acclimatizes as you climb. You sleep in comfortable local lodges, eat traditional Sherpa food and western meals, and meet the people who call these mountains home.

Basecamp: Acclimatization and Training (2-3 Days)

Reach Khare basecamp at 5,000 meters. This is your main acclimatization hub. Here, your guides teach you ice axe techniques, crampon use, and rope work. You'll do acclimatization hikes—climbing higher during the day, sleeping lower at night. This trains your body to handle altitude. You'll feel the thin air now. Breathing becomes noticeably harder. Sleep might be disrupted. This is normal.

High Camp: Final Preparation (1-2 Days)

Trek to Mera High Camp at 5,800 meters. The air is very thin now. You may experience altitude sickness symptoms—headaches, nausea, shortness of breath. Tell your guide if you feel unwell. Your guides monitor you closely. You'll rest, eat light meals, drink lots of water, and mentally prepare for the summit attempt.

Summit Day: The Moment of Truth (1 Day)

Start before dawn, usually around 2-3 AM. Climb in darkness with your headlamp. The summit route involves steady climbing on snow and glacier for 8-10 hours. Your legs will feel heavy. The altitude makes every step harder. Your mind might doubt you. Keep going anyway. Most people who reach high camp successfully summit.

Around mid-morning, you'll see Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu surrounding you. The views are absolutely breathtaking. Standing on that summit, exhausted but triumphant, changes something inside you. You realize you're stronger than you knew.

Descent: Relief and Recovery (2-3 Days)

The descent takes 2-3 days through scenic passes like Zatrwa La. Your legs will hurt. Your knees will ache. But you're going down, and the air gets thicker with each step. You're returning to normal altitude. The hardest part is over.

Return to Kathmandu (1 Day)

Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu. Shower, rest, and celebrate with your team. You've done it. Spend your last evening in Kathmandu exploring, eating great food, and reflecting on what you've accomplished.

Physical Experience

Expect to be tired most days. Your body works harder in thin air. You'll sweat less than expected because the air is dry. Your appetite might decrease—this is altitude affecting you. Some climbers experience mild headaches or nausea. Good hydration, proper pacing, and rest help. Summit day is long and exhausting but manageable with proper training.

Mental Experience

You'll feel moments of doubt. "Can I do this?" is a normal question. But you'll also feel pride, determination, and connection to your team. By summit day, you'll realize you're mentally stronger than you thought.

What Makes It Special

This isn't a crowded tourist trek. You trek through authentic mountain communities. You experience Sherpa culture, Buddhist monasteries, and genuine mountain hospitality. Your guides become friends. Your fellow climbers become lifelong connections. Standing on that summit, seeing five 8,000-meter peaks, you'll understand why this mountain transforms people.

Yes—It's Essential. Travel insurance is mandatory for Mera Peak climbing. A helicopter evacuation can cost $10,000+. Without insurance, you're risking financial disaster.

Get proper insurance before you arrive in Nepal. It's not optional—it's your lifeline if something goes wrong.

What It Must Cover

• High-altitude coverage up to 6,500 meters
• Helicopter evacuation and search & rescue
• Medical expenses and repatriation
• Trip cancellation

What to Do

• Buy specialist adventure insurance (not generic travel insurance)
• Tell your insurance company you're climbing to 6,476m with ropes and ice axes
• Cost: $150-$300
• Provide us a copy of your policy before departure
• Keep emergency numbers accessible