How difficult is Mera Peak Climbing ?
Mera Peak climbing presents a moderate to challenging blend of accessibility with demanding terrain. Spanning approximately 18 days, the trek initially passes through the verdant hills with minimal icy ridges and glaciers. It is a relatively approachable path suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. However, maintaining a good fitness level is crucial due to the trek's duration and altitude gains.
The ascent's difficulty escalates with the altitude, as Mera Peak is one of the highest trekking peaks of Nepal at 6461 meters. The elevation shows the physical demands and acclimatization requirements. While technical climbing skills are not extensively needed, the journey's length and altitude necessitate endurance and careful preparation to ensure a safe and successful summit bid.
The Best Time for Mera Peak Climbing
After conducting over a 100 trekking trips to the Mera region we have noted that the best time to do Mera Peak climb are spring and autumn. Despite winter and summer having their own charm there is something different about these seasons.
Spring Season
Spring season from March to May enhances the beauty of the region. With the mild and stable weather conditions with daytime temperatures around 5 to 20°C makes the trail more comfortable and during the night time you may expect more or less 0 to -25°C. The clear skies provide breathtaking views of iconic mountains like Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga.
Additionally, the blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery along the Makalu Barun National Park add to the picturesque landscape. Longer daylight hours ensure safer climbing conditions, and there's the added cultural experience of participating in local festivals like Holi and Nepali New Year.
Autumn Season
Autumn is one of the best stable weather with clear skies and minimal rain or snow for great visibility and comfortable trekking conditions. Daytime temperatures range from 1 to 20°C, ideal for trekking and climbing, while nights can be chilly, such as 0 to -25°C.
The landscapes are stunning with colorful autumn foliage and green forests that create a beautiful backdrop for the trek. Moreover, the autumn also coincides with Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, adding cultural experiences to the journey.
Winter Season
Winter lasts from December to February and invites fewer climbers due to colder temperatures and more challenging trail conditions with snow and ice. While the charm of winter scenery may attract some, climbers must be cautious of the harsh weather and potential hazards on the mountain. NTE does not recommend winter climbing for the beautiful experience.
Summer Season
Summer is from June to August, and is not recommended for climbing Mera Peak due to the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall and cloudy conditions can obscure mountain views, make trails slippery, and increase the risk of landslides and avalanches that makes it unsafe for climbing. It is not recommended to climb in summer.
Food in the Mera Peak Climbing
During the Mera Peak climbing expedition, ample food options are available primarily at tea houses and through kitchen tents set up by Sherpa teams along the route. Typical meals include dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), various soups, vegetables, thukpa, thenduk, eggs, cheese, and potatoes. These dishes are prepared to offer a balanced blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins necessary for sustaining energy levels in the high-altitude environment. Special attention is given to ensuring climbers receive adequate nutrition to face the challenges posed by the terrain and altitude.
Transportation for Mera Peak
All transportation is included in the package, covering airport transfer, flight tickets (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu), and more as outlined in our itinerary. The transportation in our packages with Nepal Trekking Experts ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Accommodation in the Mera Region
Accommodation during the Mera Peak climb varies based on the altitude and remoteness of the region. In the lower regions, such as Lukla routes, tea houses offer basic facilities including beds, showers, and a private bathroom. These tea houses provide a comfortable resting place with options for hot meals and basic amenities. As climbers ascend towards higher altitudes and approach Base Camp and beyond, the facilities become more limited and basic.
Tea houses at higher elevations may offer fewer amenities like shared rooms and shared toilet facilities. Climbers should be prepared for varying levels of comfort and amenities, with the understanding that higher-priced accommodations provide additional comforts like private rooms, hot showers (if and when available), and charging facilities for electronic devices.
Mera Peak Climbing Permit Cost
When climbing the Mera Peak there is a requirement of two permits. One is the Makalu Barun National Park permit and the other is the Nepal Mountaineering association permit.
- Makalu Barun National Park Permit: NPR 3000 (applicable for various activities including trekking and climbing within the park)
Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) Permit: The permit fees can vary depending on the specific peak. For Mera Peak, the permit fee is as follows:
- Spring (March–May): USD 250 per person
- Autumn (September–November): USD 125 per person
- Winter (December–February): USD 70 per person
- Summer (June–August): USD 70 per person
Porter for Mera Peak Climbing
Since Mera Peak climbing is a bit challenging, hiring a porter can be helpful. Porters assist by carrying your extra luggage along the trail, costing around $25-$30 (depending on season) per day including his salary, meals, accommodation, transportation, and insurance. Each porter carries the bags of two individuals with an average weight of around 20 kg. This service is worth it for climbers to fully experience the thrill of peak climbing.
Nepal Trekking Experts travel packages for the Everest region do not include a porter by default. However, we encourage you to consider your personal preferences and requirements when making this decision.
Altitude Sickness
During the 18 days of trekking and 2 days of peak climbing on Mera Peak, there's a significant chance of experiencing altitude sickness without proper acclimatization. To minimize this risk, climbers spend nights at Tangnag and Khare for acclimatization. This gradual adjustment helps the body acclimatize to the high altitude.
Additionally, carry necessary medications like Diamox for altitude sickness. In case of emergencies, it's recommended to consult a health professional to deal with serious situations.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for trekking and peak climbing in Nepal due to the unique risks involved, such as altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and potential accidents or emergencies. Key coverage for trekking and peak climbing insurance in Nepal should include:
- Medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, including helicopter rescue, for altitude sickness and other medical emergencies.
- Trip cancellation, interruption, and delays due to weather or other unforeseen events.
- Lost, stolen, or damaged equipment and personal belongings.
- Search and rescue operations.
- Coverage for international flights missed
When choosing a travel insurance provider for Nepal, ensure the policy specifically covers high-altitude activities up to the elevations you plan to reach. Pre-existing medical conditions may also impact coverage, so reviewing policy details carefully is crucial. Connecting with reputable travel insurance companies and ensuring these coverages are included in your policy is highly recommended.
Trekking with Mera Peak Climbing Gear
One of the prime keys to a successful Mera Peak summit is proper gear, which is given below:
Clothing:
- Raincoat, poncho, or combination jacket/trousers
- Four Seasons down jacket
- A down vest
- Windproof trousers/Down Pant
- Two pairs of hiking pants
- One pair of shorts
- Four T-shirts (depending on the duration of the trek)
- One fleece jacket
- Two pairs of base layers (Merino wools or similar)
- Four pairs of hiking socks and a couple of pairs of thicker socks (Marino wool or similar)
- Two pairs of gloves—one light merino wool, the other waterproof/windproof
- Undergarments
- Harnesses, Jumar, carabineers, safety helmet, ice axe, rope, 4-season tents, ice screw, snow bars, etc.
Footwear:
- Climbing boots
- Flip-flops for leisure time around camp or one pair of sneakers
Other Equipment:
- Climbing Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, sun hat, woolen or fleece hat, first aid kit, Swiss army knife (optional), luggage cover, headlamp, trekking poles, gaiter, crampons, water purification tablets or Steripen, extra batteries, adapter, power bank, water bottles/camel bag/Thermos, washing powder/multi-purpose soap, shampoo, a small towel, antiseptic hand wash, toiletries, female hygiene products, wet wipes, mosquito spray (optional), earplugs, reading books, playing cards/chess, etc.
- Sleeping bag rated to minus 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, depending on trekking or climbing route and season.
- Backpack (60 liters)
- Daypack (25 to 30 liters)
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