Mera Peak Climbing via Phaplu - 19 Days

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

We complete our custom formalities at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Afterwards, there is a Himalayan Traverse representative waiting for us at the gate who will take us to our hotel.  We can then spend the rest of the day taking a rest. Overnight in Kathmandu.

 

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing & Trip preparation

Sightseeing and Preparation for the Everest Expedition. While the expedition leader attends a formal briefing at the Ministry of Tourism, participants have the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu. The day includes rest, orientation, and a guided tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhu (Monkey Temple), and Boudhanath Stupa.

Most of the day is spent relaxing and unpacking, while the climbing leaders inspect all equipment to ensure it is in proper condition for the journey ahead. Participants are also introduced to fellow climbers and have the chance to discuss the upcoming expedition. In the evening, a welcome dinner is hosted by Himalayan Traverse, offering a taste of traditional Nepalese cuisine. Overnight stay is in Kathmandu.

Included meals: Breakfast Dinner

 

Day 03: Ride Kathmandu to Phaplu(2,416m/7,918ft.-Solu) 8-9 hrs.

Early in the morning, we travel from Kathmandu to Phaplu in a comfortable tourist vehicle, enjoying scenic views of hills, rivers, and the changing landscape with increasing altitude, particularly through the Pattale region. Upon arrival in Phaplu, a well-equipped town featuring an airport, a hospital supported by Edmund Hillary, and horse services, we take in the spectacular surroundings, including Numbur (6,958m / 22,828 ft) and the highest hills in the area, such as Pikey Peak.

The region is predominantly inhabited by Buddhist communities, mainly Tamang and Sherpa, each with distinct languages and cultural practices. Overnight stay is at a hotel in Phaplu.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 04: Phaplu to Nunthala(2,194m/7,198ft)- 5/6 hrs.

Early morning after breakfast, Starting from Phaplu we to the Greenery (jungle area) straight to Ringmo Village (Slanted terrain where Sherpas reside) for lunch. Then after lunch we head to higher elevation- Taksindu Pass (3,130m./10,269ft.) offering views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku etc. in support of clear weather. We descend enjoying the view of mountain, hills (Pikey Peak-Highest) to the Buddhist monastery School further to our destination (Nunthala). Enjoying the environment, culture of the place we finally reach to Nunthala (Majorly People reside here) which lies under the Karyolung Peak (6,511m) this day.

Overnight in Nunthala.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 05: Nunthala to Panggom (2,846m/9,337ft): 5-6 hours

We begin the day by descending for a short distance until we reach a small bridge. Beyond this point, the trail becomes slippery as we make our way toward the Kari La Pass. The path winds through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests along a narrow mountain trail.

Along the way, we are treated to stunning views of the Dudhkoshi Valley. The trek continues to Panggom Village, where the local residents rely primarily on farming and trade for their livelihood. Overnight stay is in Panggom.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 06: Panggom to Ningsow (2,863m/9,393ft): 4-5 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Panggom. The trail first takes us over the Panggom La Pass before ascending along a steady path that turns north. We cross the Peseng Kharka Khola and, after some walking, arrive at Peeng Kharka Danda. Continuing onward, we cross the Ningsow Khola stream before reaching Ningsow Village. Overnight stay is in Ningsow.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 07: Ningsow to Chhatra Khola (2,800m/9,186ft): 7-8 hours

From Ningsow, the trail begins with a climb, followed by a short descent and another ascent to reach Ramailo Danda. From this vantage point, we are treated to spectacular views of Mera Peak and Salpa. Continuing along the trail with its ascents and descents, we enter Makalu Barun National Park. The path from here to Chhatra Khola is known as the Pasang Lhamu Trail. With some luck, we may even spot the elusive Red Panda along the way. Overnight stay is in Chhatra Khola.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 08: Chhatra Khola to Kothe (3,691m/12,109ft): 6-7 hours

We continue trekking north along the main trail toward Mera Peak. The path initially follows the Majang Khola and then joins another trail that runs alongside the Hinku Khola. Our route leads straight to Tashing Ongma, where seasonal tea shops offer refreshments. Continuing onward, we cross a bridge over the Sanu Khola before arriving at Kothe. Overnight stay is in Kothe.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 09: Kothe to Thaknak (4,358m/14,297ft): 3-4 hours

We trek along the ridge of the Hinku Khola, with Mera Peak towering above us. Lunch is taken at Gondishung, a summer settlement for herders located on the west bank of the Hinku Drangka. Beyond Gondishung, we pass the 200-year-old Lungsumgba Gompa, where the route to Mera Peak is carved into the rock. A short walk from there brings us to Thaknak, a summer grazing area featuring basic lodges and small shops. Overnight stay is in Thaknak.Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 10: Thaknak Acclimatization/Rest Day

This day is going to be an acclimation day in thaknak. Overnight in Thaknak.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 11: Thaknak to Khare (5,045m/16,486ft): 2-3 hours

From Thaknak, we follow the lateral moraine of the Dig Glacier to reach Dig Kharka, where we are rewarded with stunning views of Charpate Himal. The trail then ascends through glacial moraines toward the snouts of the Hinku Nup and Shar glaciers, before climbing more steeply to Khare. From this vantage point, the northern face of Mera Peak comes into full view, offering a breathtaking sight. After lunch, there is time to explore the area around Khare. Overnight stay is in Khare.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

(Note: Here we also rent our climbing gear for mera peak climbing)

Day 12: Khare: Acclimatization and pre–climb training

We have a separate day set aside solely for acclimatization and basic training just to prepare ourselves better for the Mera Peak climb. Our climbing leader will help us polish our basic climbing techniques and demonstrate the best ways to use our climbing gears like the ice axe, harness, ascender climbing boots and crampons. The training will also include learning the best technique to use the rope for climbing up and down. Overnight in Khare. 

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

(Note: Member Personal climbing Gear can be hired from this place. The members gears will be rechecked accordingly)

Day 13: Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780m/18,958ft): 6-7 hours

We trek along a steep, boulder-strewn path to reach Mera Peak Base Camp. From there, the route continues over the Mera La Pass toward Mera High Camp. The trail is rocky and can be challenging, especially after recent snowfall, due to crevasses along the way. We ascend to the top of a rock band marked by a large cairn and then establish our high camp. From this vantage point, we are treated to stunning panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, the south face of Lhotse, Nuptse, Chamlang, and Baruntse. Overnight stay is at Mera High Camp.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 14: Summit Mera Peak (6,461m/21,190ft), Retrace Khare(5,045m/16,486ft):10-11 hours

We wake up around 2 a.m. for an early breakfast. The start of the climb is very cold, but as we progress up the glacier and onto a unique ridge, we gradually warm up. The first sunlight illuminates the towering peaks with a breathtaking red glow. The ascent remains non-technical as we steadily climb through the thinning high-altitude air.

The slope becomes steeper beyond the ridge, and the summit comes into view. Near the base of the final steep cone, climbers may use a fixed rope depending on conditions. The summit is just a short distance away. From the top, we are rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest (8,848m), Cho-Oyu (8,210m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,463m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Nuptse (7,855m), Chamlang (7,319m), Baruntse (7,129m), and other peaks.

After enjoying the summit, we retrace our steps back to the high camp to rest before descending to Khare for the night. Overnight stay is in Khare.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 15: Retrace Kote

Overnight in Lukla.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 16: Retrace Chattre(38000): 5/6 hrs. hike

Then this route differs after we reach chattre khola(lunch spot),we hike higher to the bamboo/rhododendron forest area. We cross that then we reach chattre. There are limited (about 2/3) so we overnight there.

Overnight in Chattre hotel.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 17: Chattre to Lukla (3,800m/12,467ft): 6-7 hours

Then other day we do Chattre la pass (4,610m/15,125ft) entering Khumbu region. We descend kharki teng for lunch where these are some hotels and being through chu thanga before reaching Lukla. After reaching Lukla we spend the rest of the day taking a rest as today will be our last day on the mountains. Overnight in Lukla.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

 

Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu

The flights to Kathmandu are usually scheduled for morning due to safety reasons. After reaching the capital city, we have the rest of the day off to past the time as we please. We could take a rest in our hotel room or shop for souvenirs for our loved ones. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Included meals: Breakfast

 

Day 19: Final departure

We check our hotel room for one last time and make sure that we have not forgotten to pack any of our belongings. A Himalayan Traverse representative will take us to the Tribhuvan International Airport 3 hours earlier before our scheduled flight.

Included meals: Breakfast

Departure Detail