The Mera Peak – Phaplu Trek starts in the village of Phaplu. We arrive in Phaplu by either jeep or bus from Kathmandu. Following the trail taken traditionally by Mt Everest climbers, we start at a low elevation and hike up through Jiri and Lukla to higher elevation Namche Bazaar and the Kumbu Valley. The trek will take for 18 to 20 days depending on weather conditions. Mera Peak is one of the most popular peaks in Nepal for climbing. Located in the Makalu-Barun National Park to the South of Mount Everest, it is an easier climb than most of the area’s other peaks. Mera consists of three peaks… Mera South (6065 meters), Central (6461 meters) and North (6476 meters). With HV Treks guides, we will climb Mera Central. From Base Camp the climb takes three to four days. Although the climb is not technically difficult, it requires physical strength and basic mountaineering skills. Prior to the ascent, an HV Treks climbing guide will provide a briefing and a training exercise. At our high camp, the sweeping view of Kanchanjangha, Chamlang and Makalu to the east, Everest and Lhotse to the north and Amadablam and Cho-Oyu to the west is incredible… one of the most stunning in all of Nepal. Because the successful summiting of high elevation peaks is weather dependent, the treks’ itinerary may have to be adjusted to accommodate a safe ascent. The trek ends in Lukla, from which we fly to Kathmandu.
Detail Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 03. Fly from Kathmandu to Phaplu 2469 meter
Day 04 Phaplu – Nuntala (2194 meters)
Day 05 Nuntala – Kharikola (1985 meters)
Day 06: Kharikhola – Panggoma (3000 m) 3-4 hours
Day 07: Panggoma – Forest Camp /Hill side (3750m) 3-4 hours
Day 08: Forest Camp- Thuli Kharka (4150 m) 3-4hours
Day 09: Thuli Kharka Rest and acclimatization
Day 10: Thuli Kharka – Kote (3640 m) 4-5 hours
Day 11: Kote – Tangnag (4358 m) 3-4 hours
Day 12: Rest in Tangnag (day off with acclimatization)
Day 13: Tangnag- Khare (5000 m) 2-3 hours
Day 14: Rest in Khare for acclimatization and practice of climbing
Day 15: Khare – Mera La Camp (5415 m) 3-4 hours
Day 16: Mera La Camp – High Camp (5780 m) 2-3 hours
Day 17: Climbing Mera (Central) Peak (6461m) and descent to base camp Khare 7-8 hours
Day 18: Khare – Kote (3640 m) 4-5 hours
Day 19: Kote – Thuli Kharka (4320 m) 5-6 hours
Day 20: Thuli Kharka – Chutanga (3440m) 3-4 hours
Day 21: Chutanga – Lukla (2840m) 3-4 hours
Day 22: Lukla – Kathmandu/Ramechhap (1350 m)
Day 23: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur (1401m) Sightseeing 3 -4 hours
Day 24: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Important Information:
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern to Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. Please understand that the HV Treks trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is found prudent. Unfavorable circumstances may occur during the trek. Dangerous weather conditions, the condition of a group member, natural events such as landslides can force changes in the itinerary. All efforts will be made to keep to the planned itinerary. The HV Treks leader will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly and according to plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give a 24-hour emergency response to an accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
Also Important: on Domestic Flight (Kathmandu – Lukla)
The Government of Nepal has announced an issue for the flight operation to phoplu. Due to heavy traffic congestion in Kathmandu airport, most of the flights from and to Lukla are managed from Ramechhap airport which is located 130km from Kathmandu (approximately 3-4 hours drive). However, direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is available in off-seasons.
Alternatively, helicopter arrangements can be made on 4 people sharing basis with the addition of USD $ 550 for one-way flight per person to change your airplane flights to the helicopter. We will try to coordinate and form groups at the airport for this arrangement, but we cannot guarantee it. The jeep drive to Ramechhap and flight to Lukla is almost always guaranteed unless the flight is canceled due to bad weather conditions.
Travelers are suggested to advise us on the preferred alternatives for the flights to/from Lukla affected due to possible delays or disruptions.
Important Also:
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires that trekking and expedition guests have Insurance Policies. A Travel Insurance Policy should cover the cost of emergencies (including altitude sickness), injuries, and evacuations. Please, it is essential to bring your Travel Insurance Policy or copies of your pertinent existing insurance coverage with you to Nepal. HV Treks will require a copy for our office records. We, as well, advise you to inform your existing insurance agent/company of your itinerary, including trekking, climbing, and hiking, and ensure your current policy provides sufficient coverage.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
We receive our valuable guests at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. One of our company staffs will be waiting to welcome our guest(s) with a small display board that reads Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. Also, there will be a display board with the guests’ name. The guests are dropped at the hotel and taken to the city for short sightseeing. Then in the evening, the guests are served Welcome Dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1337m)
A tour guide according to the need of our guests will be provided. The guide takes the guests for sightseeing in Kathmandu. The sightseeing includes Pashupati area, Boudhanath, Patan, and Swoyambhunath area. The time for sightseeing begins after breakfast; it goes generally 9.00am to 5.00pm. On the same day, the company makes the permit and does other paper works for the trekking. Lunch and dinner will be on your own.
Day 03. Fly from Kathmandu to Phaplu 2469 meter
A short but spectacular flight and you are suddenly in the middle of the mountains. Phaplu is the airport of the district capital of Salleri and is therefore still in use next to nearby Lukla. Here you will meet the Nepali staff (guides and porters) who are waiting for us with all the necessary equipment for the coming weeks. Depending on the time of arrival in Phaplu, you may walk to Ringmo the same day.If there are no flights to Phaplu, we go by jeep.
Day 04 Phaplu – Nuntala (2194 meters)
On this day we walk and climb gradually through forests and fields to Ringmo. There, the trail heads towards east to Takshindu La (pass) located at the altitude of 2960 meters from sea level. From here you already have a mesmerizing view of the high mountains in the north and our route for the next few days. The path to Nuntala descends very gradually, deep below us flows the Dudh Kosi, the river filled with the meltwater of the glaciers of Everest and Cho Oyu.
Day 05 Nuntala – Kharikola (1985 meters)
on this day we start with the descent to the bridge over the Dudh Kosi approximately 650 meters below. After which we start the final ascent to Zattara Danda ridge. Just above the bridge is the picturesque village of Jubing with some tea houses and lots of flowers. We stay at the night in the lodges here.
Day 06: Kharikhola – Panggoma (3000 m) 3-4 hours
We now leave the path to Everest and go through the fields and forests following the narrow and sometimes slippery trails up. We pass the gompa (monastery) of Kharikola and if someone is present we take the time to take a look. We can look back far from the monastery on the route of the previous days. Panggoma is 2900 meters and it is night already colder. Slightly above Panggoma lies a beautiful monastery where we can attend a Buddhist ceremony. We offer some money to the Lamas (the priests in the monastery) and they bless for the good luck for our expedition.
Day 07: Panggoma – Forest Camp /Hill side (3750m) 3-4 hours
We start today with the short but steep climb to the Panggoma La (3286m) walking through the fantastic forest. The only one path continues straight to the areas at the foot of Makalu (Tumlingtar). Then we climb over the wooded ridge that lies northwards until we get above the tree line and we see the barren and rocky landscape. Usually after the noon, it is often bad weather here, but if the weather is good, the view around looks fantastic.
Day 08: Forest Camp- Thuli Kharka (4150 m) 3-4hours
We continue walking heading north along the ridge towards Thuli-Kharka. We walk through the route with a pass Zatrwa La (4610m), the highest point, after which we head to the alpine meadows of Thuli-Kharka where we have a camp. Here we will likely encounter other groups which have come up from Lukla or can we hear the experiences of people who come back of Mera Peak.
Day 09: Thuli Kharka Rest and acclimatization
Since we are at 4250 meters, acclimatization is required for us to the higher altitude. Now and onwards everything we do leads to wheezing and everything feels heavy. We therefore take rest for the body to adjust to the altitude. It is an essential step to later have better chances to reach the summit of Mera Peak. Also we can check all the climbing equipments once again in the leadership of Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition climbing guide or do the laundry and dry all the wet stuff.
Day 10: Thuli Kharka – Kote (3640 m) 4-5 hours
Today we walk down to the Inkhu Khola. In the beginning we follow a stretch of the ridge of the mountain, a bit up and down. After crossing a pass we have a good view of the southwest wall of Mera Peak and Sannu Himal. Now we walk above the tree line in the beginning, but during the day we vanish into the jungle with rhododendrons and blue Himalayan pine. The descent is steep and slippery. We reach the rough river along which we walk now. After sometime we set up our camp at a spacious place near Kote.
Day 11: Kote – Tangnag (4358 m) 3-4 hours
Now we walk through the wreckage along Inkhu Khola and continue to the north into the valley. A few years ago Sabai-Tsho, a glacial lake broke and the resulting tsunami caused huge damage in the Hunkhu valley. Just before Tangnag lies a small Gompa where we bring a final sacrifice to pray for the success of climbing. During the quiet climb up we will have a view of the Kyashar (6770 meters). The valley becomes narrower and is stuck between the Kusum Kang Guru and Mera West. The big and spacious meadows at Tangnag offer a great camp to stay for two days.
Day 12: Rest in Tangnag (day off with acclimatization)
Again we have a rest day today to prepare for the ascent. For those who feel energetic, there is then the possibility for a stretch along the eastern flank of the Kusum Kang Guru (6369 meter) climb up. This edge is at over 5000 meters a plateau overlooking the valley. Who wants to keep it slightly lower can take a look towards the Dig Kharka, Sabai –Tsho, Sabai Glacier Lake, and admire that opens on the north side of the lake. In the afternoon we will make extensive equipments and exercise for climbing by walking on the rope in the instruction of climbing guide of Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition.
Day 13: Tangnag- Khare (5000 m) 2-3 hours
The environment is getting rougher around us now. We walk along the side of moraine of the glacier Dig. We walk heading to Khare that furnish the base camp. Now, the weather, snow conditions and the physical condition of the individual climbers play a vital role ahead. Here we need to take an ultimate decision on the logistical and technical approach of the next three days. One thing is definite; the nights will be severe cold and the height and tension of the climb we probably will not let us sleep well too.
Day 14: Rest in Khare for acclimatization and practice of climbing
One more acclimatization and climb practice before we climb the peak. Khare is the starting point for the climb of Mera Peak. This is the last place with lodges, mainly for carriers, and tent pitches on terraces next to the cabins. We can eat indoors and carriers are well protected. When we are higher up on the mountain to climb, they will be here every day to return to. In the morning we will continue with extensive exercises with the equipment, with the rope and prusiken to go to a fixed rope up and down. Those who wish can still make a trip to the higher ground in the afternoon.
Day 15: Khare – Mera La Camp (5415 m) 3-4 hours
Today we cross the Mera Glacier and walk to the Mera La camp. This is located on the eastern side of the pass at 5344 meters. The first part is slightly steep so we may have to put a fixed rope here. The main part of the journey on the glacier, however, is slightly sloping. The campsite is situated near a small lake and is rocky and small. The porters carry only the necessary food supplies and materials for the climb up and go back to Khare BC.
Day 16: Mera La Camp – High Camp (5780 m) 2-3 hours
Our porters come up again and bring all our equipments to High Camp. There is not too much space for camping so we need to measure and set our tents. The view from here is a fair of seven and eight-thousand high peaks such as Kanchenjunga, Chamlang, Makalu, Baruntse, Lothse, Cho Oyu and Everest course. This site is considered for one of the most beautiful viewpoint of Nepal. We make camp on the glacier, which means dig and chop, which is very laborious at this altitude and again a very cold night.
Day 17: Climbing Mera (Central) Peak (6461m) and descent to base camp Khare 7-8 hours
Today is the day of goal, or let’s say, the day of truth; the day of those who come out on the top. Far before the dawn, in the darkness of the night, we get up and get ready for the climb.
It will be a long journey across the icy landscape. The slope is not very steep and there are not many gaps. Despite highly facilitated technically, the difficulty takes great effort in every meter in this height. A little wind can thereby already provide very low temperatures so we must be alert to frostbite. All these inconveniences, however, are quickly forgotten when we reach the top and certainly if we wish; we can report the base camp regarding our success. We don’t remain for longer than 30 minutes on the top. The weather won’t allow us to remain longer. We climb down slowly and to the base camp of Khare.
Day 18: Khare – Kote (3640 m) 4-5 hours
From Khare we directly go back to Khote since it will not be difficult for us to go down and we don’t need acclimatization. We need acclimatization while going up only. Hence, going down is done almost constantly. We can share our experiences, tell our stories of climbing, to the expeditors who are going up and they, for sure, will listen enthusiastically to our findings and recommendations. We head to Kote for the night.
Day 19: Kote – Thuli Kharka (4320 m) 5-6 hours
We are slowly going to the known steep track through the forest until we reach the meadows of Thuli Kharka. We must be ready for tomorrow since a steep climb and a steep descent are waiting for us. We spend the night in Thuli Kharka.
Day 20: Thuli Kharka – Chutanga (3440m) 3-4 hours
Today, the trek becomes violent once more. First the steep climb to the La Zatrwa, then up and down to a second pass for the descent to Chutanga. The first part after the second pass is steep and is almost always in the shade. If there is a lot of snow then it can be quite risky. Probably the rope can be helpful again. We experience that descend can be stressful, but the prospect of the delicacies, cola and apple pie make up for it tomorrow in Lukla.
Day 21: Chutanga – Lukla (2840m) 3-4 hours
We walk for few hours down through the forest to Lukla. A nice hike to round off our trip. The rest of the day can lie in the sun or sit on a terrace. We will have to get used to the crowds, the shops and the many tourists at Lukla.
Day 22: Lukla – Kathmandu (1350 m)
Today we wait for the plane to fly Kathmandu/Ramechhap. Who knows, we will come back to this region again or not in our life. So we may have look around for the last view of the Everest region. The flight depends on the weather condition. Flight delay or cancellation is common phenomenon in this region. So, we may have to pay extra charge US $ 250-350 for the plane charter so that we will not miss our flight to our home country from Kathmandu.
Day 23: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur (1401m) Sightseeing 3 -4 hours
This day you spend on your own either looking around Kathmandu, buying a souvenir for your friends/family or you can have full rest or prepare for going back to your home country. Or if you wish you will be taken to Bhaktapur for sightseeing for 4 hours. But you have to extra charge for this. In the evening you will be served the Farewell Dinner by the company.
Day 24: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition representative will manage vehicle and staff to drop our valuable guests at the airport and bid goodbye. It will be not only goodbye to you but also the welcome for next visit to Nepal.
Important Information:
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern to Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. Please understand that the HV Treks trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is found prudent. Unfavorable circumstances may occur during the trek. Dangerous weather conditions, the condition of a group member, natural events such as landslides can force changes in the itinerary. All efforts will be made to keep to the planned itinerary. The HV Treks leader will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly and according to plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give 24-hour emergency response to any accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
Important Also: The Lukla Airport is at high-altitude and flights in or out are prone to delays due to weather conditions. In the wetter, cloudy months, flights coming from Kathmandu are often delayed or canceled until next day or when the weather permits. Guests should please make sure their timetable for the trip to Lukla and Everest Base Camp allows for these possible delays. There are available also helicopter charters to and from Lukla which are not as dependant on clear weather. However they are more expensive.
Number Of Participants
Minimum number of participants: 2
Maximum number of participants: 14
Max Altitude: 6461m
Best Season: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (mid-September to November)
Difficulty Level: High
December, January, and February
It is called the winter season in Nepal. It is a season for snowfall in mountain region above 4300m in Nepal. So, trekking is possible below 4500m during this period. This season is noted for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in the Himalayas. Though it gets colder in a night, often it offers the clear day / blue sky and relatively fewer trekkers on the trail. Sunrise and Sunset are seen very clear and beautiful in this season. So, a tourist who wants to pass short holidays during this period Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes to see a splendid view of nature. During this period, we arrange a family tour to experience natural beauty with short hikes and cultural tour. It is suitable for homestay tour through which different rituals and culture can be experienced during this period. The famous homestay like Sailung Timal homestay,Timal homestay, Tamang Heritage Homestay, Ghalegaon Homestay are the special places to visit.
March, April, and May
It is spring season which is known as trekking season in Nepal. A smooth wind and gentle breeze are felt all over the country. Sunny days and clear weather are the supportive factors for trekking in this season. Presence of a cloud can be seen in the sky during this season. So a short rainfall can be felt during this period. It is the season of an expedition and climbing high peaks in Nepal. So many tourists from different parts of the world come to climb peaks above 7000m in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and journey for climbing during this period. Peak climbing period can be in length up to June so Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges attractive programs during this period. This period offers plenty of opportunities for clear mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom, and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendrons – coat the mountainsides with its colorful beauty throughout the spring.
June, July, and August
It is rainy season in Nepal. As it is the season of heavy rainfall. it is also known as the crops harvesting season in Nepal. In this season, trekking is slightly difficult in Nepal. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in the rain-shadow (places are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) areas north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. However, Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and trek during this period in dry areas. We arrange treks and tour in dry areas like Mustang, Upper Dolpa, Leh Ladakh (India) and Tibet.
September, October, and November
Moderate temperatures, clear sky with outstanding views, making it a great time to do any of our treks. Occasional short storms may dump snow at high altitudes. This is the season of feast and festivals. This is also known as the special season for flowers in Nepal. Marigold is popular and found best in this season. Temples and holy places are visited during this period. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath are celebrated during this season. Long national holidays are offered for this festival for workers. This season is known as the king of the season. No rainfall, sunny days and moderate temperature are the most favorable factors of this season for treks and tours in Nepal. Every kind of treks and tours can be done during this period. So many tourists come to see beautiful Nepal in this season. Many trekking routes are full of tourist during this season. Peaks 6000m to 7000m is the best destination for climbing in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes tourist to feel the splendid view of the nature of Nepal in this season.
Equipment & Packing List
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to ensure you have all the necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
Important documents and items
Head
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Sleeping
Rucksack and Travel Bags
Medical
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
Practical Items
