Mera Peak

Mera Peak is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal, offering a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences. Located in the Everest region, Mera Peak stands at an altitude of 6,476 meters (21,247 feet), making it the highest trekking peak in Nepal. Here's a detailed guide to Mera Peak climbing:

Overview

• Location: Hinku Valley, Everest Region, Nepal
• Height: 6,476 meters (21,247 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Best Season: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-November)
• Duration: Typically 18-22 days
  

Highlights

• Panoramic Views: From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga.
• Cultural Experience: Experience Sherpa culture and hospitality in traditional villages.
• Adventure: Crossing high passes, walking through remote valleys, and camping in the wilderness.

 

Preparation and Training

• Physical Fitness: Mera Peak climbing requires excellent physical fitness and stamina. Cardiovascular training, strength training, and hiking experience are essential.
• Technical Skills: Basic mountaineering skills, including the use of crampons, ice axe, and roping up, are necessary. Training can be done during the trek or prior to the expedition.

Permits and Regulations

• Climbing Permit: Required from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA).
• Local Permits: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit.
• Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Required for all trekkers.
  

Gear and Equipment

• Clothing: Layered clothing suitable for extreme cold, including thermal base layers, fleece jackets, down jacket, and waterproof outer layers.
• Footwear: High-quality trekking boots, mountaineering boots, gaiters, and crampons.
• Climbing Gear: Ice axe, harness, carabiners, ascender, descender, ropes.
• Camping Gear: Sleeping bag rated for -20°C, sleeping pad, tent (provided by trekking agency).

 

Costs

• Expedition Cost: Typically ranges from $2,500 to $4,000, depending on the services and inclusions.
• Additional Costs: Include gear, personal expenses, tips, and insurance.

Safety Considerations

• Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
• Guide and Support Staff: Climbing with experienced guides and support staff enhances safety and success rates.
• Weather Conditions: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather and be flexible with itinerary adjustments.

Mera Peak climbing offers an excellent opportunity for adventure enthusiasts to experience high-altitude mountaineering in one of the most picturesque regions of Nepal. Proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization are key to a successful and enjoyable ascent.

Mera Peak Climbing Itinerary
 

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)

Day 2 – Lukla to Paiya

 
Time Trekking: 4-5 hours

Lukla Altitude: 2,840 meters (9,317 feet)

Paiya Altitude: 2,730 meters (8,956 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 73%

Distance Covered: 8km

 Day 3 – Paiya to Panggom

 
Time Trekking: 5-6 hours

Paiya Altitude: 2,730 meters (8,956 feet)

Panggom Altitude: 2,804 meters (9,199 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 72%

Distance Covered: 12km

Meters Walked Uphill: 1,700m

 Day 4 – Panggom to Ramailo Danda 

Time Trekking: 5-6 hours

Panggom Altitude: 2,804 meters (9,199 feet)

Ramailo Danda Altitude: 3,276 meters (10,748 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 68%

Distance Covered: 9km

Meters Walked Uphill: 1,300m

Day 5 – Ramailo Danda to Takto

 
Time Trekking: 8 hours

Ramailo Danda Altitude: 3,276 meters (10,748 feet)

Takto Altitude: 3,670 meters (12,040 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 65%

Distance Covered: 14km

Meters Walked Uphill: 2,000m

Day 6 – Takto to Kothe

 
Time Trekking: 3-4 hours

Takto Altitude: 3,670 meters (12,040 feet)

Kothe Altitude: 3,580 meters (11,745 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 66%

Distance Covered: 7km

Day 7 – Kothe to Thangnak

 
Time Trekking: 3-4 hours

Kothe Altitude: 3,580 meters (11,745 feet)

Thangnak Altitude: 4,358 meters (14,297 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 60%

Distance Covered: 7km

Meters Walked Uphill: 800m

 

Day 8 – Rest Day in Thangnak

 
Time Trekking: Acclimation Hike

Thangnak Altitude: 4,358 meters (14,297 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 60%

Day 9 – Thangnak to Khare

 
Time Trekking: 3-4 hours

Thangnak Altitude: 4,358 meters (14,297 feet)

Khare Altitude: 5,045 meters (16,551 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 55%

Meters Walked Uphill: 700m

Day 10 – Rest Day in Khare

 
Time Trekking: Acclimation Hike

Khare Altitude: 5,045 meters (16,551 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 55%

Meters Walked Uphill: 250

Day 11 – Khare to High Camp

 
Time Trekking: 6-8 hours

Khare Altitude: 5,045 meters (16,551 feet)

High Camp Altitude: 5,780 meters (18,963 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 50%

Meters Walked Uphill: 800m

 

Day 12 – High Camp to Summit to Khare

 
Time Trekking: 10-12 hours

High Camp Altitude: 5,780 meters (18,963 feet)

Summit Altitude: 6,461 meters (21,197 feet)

Khare Altitude: 5,045 meters (16,551 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 46% at summit

Day 13 – Khare to Khote

 
Time Trekking: 4-5 hours

Khare Altitude: 5,045 meters (16,551 feet)

Kothe Altitude: 3,580 meters (11,745 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 60%

Day 14 – Kothe to Thuli Kharka

 
Time Trekking: 5-6 hours

Kothe Altitude: 3,580 meters (11,745 feet)

Thuli Kharka Altitude: 4,300 meters (14,107 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 60%

 Day 15 – Thuli Kharka to Lukla

 
Time Trekking: 6-7 hours

Thuli Kharka Altitude: 4,300 meters (14,107 feet)

Lukla Altitude: 2,840 meters (9,317 feet)

Oxygen Concentration: 72%

Day 16 – fly back to Kathmandu

Day 17 – Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

Annapurna Base Camp

 

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a fantastic dream destination! Located in the heart of the Himalayas in Nepal, it's renowned for its breathtaking scenery and challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. Here are some highlights and details about Annapurna Base Camp:

Stunning Scenery

• Panoramic Views: ABC offers stunning panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Machapuchare (6,993 meters), and other peaks of the Annapurna Massif.
• Diverse Landscapes: The trek to ABC takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and glacial moraines.

Trekking Experience

• Moderate Difficulty: The trek is considered moderately difficult, making it accessible to a wide range of trekkers. It usually takes about 7-12 days depending on the chosen route and pace.
• Tea houses: Along the route, there are numerous tea houses offering basic accommodation and meals, allowing trekkers to rest and refuel.

 

Cultural Immersion

• Local Villages: The trek passes through several traditional Gurung and Magar villages, where trekkers can experience local culture, hospitality, and cuisine.
• Cultural Sites: The region is rich in cultural heritage with various temples, stupas, and prayer flags adding to the spiritual experience of the journey.

 

Natural Hot Springs

• Jhinu Danda: Many trekkers enjoy a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, a perfect way to soothe tired muscles after days of trekking.
• Flora and Fauna
• Rich Biodiversity: The Annapurna region is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, orchids, and wildlife like langur monkeys and Himalayan tahr.

 

Tips for Your Trek

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to trek to ABC are during the per-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer the best weather and visibility.
• Permits: Trekkers need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
• Preparation: Proper physical preparation is essential. It’s also important to pack adequately, including layers of clothing, good trekking boots, and necessary gear.

 

Personal Highlights

• Sunrise Views: Catching the sunrise over the Annapurna range from ABC is a surreal experience, with the peaks turning golden in the morning light.
• Community Experience: Sharing stories with fellow trekkers and locals in the tea houses can be a highlight, adding a social element to the adventure.
  

 Getting There

• Access Point: The trek typically starts from Nayapul, which is accessible from Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city. Pokhara itself is worth exploring for its scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere.
• Transportation: From Kathmandu, you can fly or take a bus to Pokhara. From Pokhara, local transportation options like taxis or buses will take you to the starting point of the trek.

Annapurna Base Camp offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure, making it a dream destination for many trekking enthusiasts. If you have any specific questions or need more detailed information, feel free to ask!

Sherpa guides

Sherpa guides and porter services play a vital role in trekking and mountaineering expeditions in the Himalayas, particularly in Nepal and the surrounding areas. Sherpas, who come from the mountainous regions of Nepal, are highly respected for their expertise in mountaineering, physical endurance, and extensive knowledge of the terrain.

Sherpa porters, known for their strength and hard work, take on the responsibility of carrying trekking and climbing equipment, supplies, and other necessities for travelers. Their crucial role allows trekkers and climbers to focus on the journey without the burden of heavy loads. Hiring a Sherpa porter ensures a more comfortable experience for trekkers and reduces the potential health risks associated with carrying heavy backpacks at high altitudes.

It is essential to treat Sherpa guides and porters with respect and fairness as they are integral members of the local communities, often relying on tourism-related activities for their livelihoods. Many ethical trekking companies and organizations prioritize the well-being and fair treatment of Sherpas by offering them fair wages, proper equipment, and ensuring their safety throughout the expeditions.

When planning a trek or mountaineering adventure in the Himalayas, it is advisable to choose reputable and responsible trekking companies with a proven track record of ethical practices and equitable treatment of their Sherpa guides and porters. Additionally, selecting environmentally conscious trekking options helps support sustainable tourism in the region, minimizing the impact on fragile mountain ecosystems.

The cost of hiring a Sherpa guide or porter in Nepal varies depending on their role and experience. A Sherpa guide costs $40.00 per day, while a Sherpa guide cum porter costs $35.00 per day. An experienced Sherpa porter charges $30.00 per day, and a Sherpa experienced peak climbing guide (mountain guide) receives a bonus of $350 for each peak climbing.

Please note that if you require a round-trip flight ticket from Kathmandu to Lukla, the cost is $395 per person. Additionally, necessary permits include a Blue TIMS  TIMS card at $20 per person, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality permit at $20, and Sagarmatha National Park permit at $30 per person, including taxes.

 

Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla

 

In the year 2024, the price for a one-way flight from Kathmandu to Lukla varies for foreigners and Indian nationals. Foreigners can expect to pay a minimum of USD 215, while Indian nationals will be charged INR 11,300 per person for the same journey. Each passenger is allowed to carry 10 kg of baggage and 5 kg of hand carry on the flight. However, if passengers wish to bring additional baggage, they can do so by paying an extra fee.

About Nepal Trekking

About Nepal, known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure, spirituality, and breathtaking scenery. If you're planning a trip to Nepal, here's a guide to help you make the most of your visit:

Visa and Entry Requirements:

Check the visa requirements for your country before traveling to Nepal. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at the border entry points.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is relatively stable and pleasant for trekking and sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rains and is not ideal for outdoor activities.

Top Destinations:

Kathmandu: The capital city, known for its ancient temples, palaces, and vibrant markets.

Pokhara: A scenic city located near Annapurna and other trekking routes. It's also home to Phewa Lake and Sarangkot viewpoint.

Chitwan National Park: Famous for its wildlife, including endangered species like one-horned rhinos and Bengal tigers.

Lumbini: The birthplace of Lord Buddha and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

Trekking and Hiking:

Nepal is a trekker's paradise with a range of trekking options suitable for all experience levels. The most popular treks include:

Everest Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Langtang Valley Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ensure you're physically prepared and choose a trek that matches your fitness and experience level.

Cultural Etiquette:

Nepali culture is deeply rooted in traditions and customs. When visiting temples and religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. It's polite to ask for permission before taking photos of local people.

Safety and Health:

Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation, especially if you plan to trek in remote areas.

Stay hydrated and avoid drinking untreated water. Always carry a water bottle and use water purification tablets or a filtration system.

Be cautious of the altitude while trekking. Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

Check with your doctor about necessary vaccinations before traveling.

Transportation:

Public transportation in Nepal can be basic and time-consuming. Domestic flights, especially for reaching remote areas, are a popular option. Buses and microbuses connect major cities and towns.

Currency:

The currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). ATMs are available in major cities, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially while trekking.

Language:

Nepali is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Responsible Tourism:

Respect the environment and local culture during your visit. Minimize your waste, support local businesses, and be mindful of the impact of your actions on the communities you visit.

Remember that this guide provides general information, and it's always good to conduct further research and plan your trip based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your time in Nepal!

Guides Nepal

Guides Nepal team of seasoned Guides Nepal, each with 10-20 years of expertise in guiding and portering. Operating independently, we ensure direct communication with our guests, tailoring experiences to perfection without agency intermediaries. By cutting agency fees, we offer cost-effective services while guaranteeing fair compensation for our staff.

How does it work?

At Guides Nepal Trekking, we bypass agencies, fostering direct interaction between guide and client. This results in bespoke itineraries that cater to every budget and interest.

Guides Nepal offers an array of choices beyond standard itineraries. Your guide will craft personalized adventures tailored to your preferences, whether you crave mountain vistas, rafting, nature exploration, or cultural immersion.

Is Guides Nepal Trekking more expensive?

Absolutely not. Your guide collaborates closely with you, considering your budget constraints. From small to large groups, and from budget to luxury accommodations, we offer diverse options to suit your needs.

With no agency overheads, your budget is solely allocated to travel expenses, ensuring fair compensation for guides and porters. Unlike agencies, we prioritize equitable payments over profit margins.

Are the services of Guides Nepal limited?

On the contrary. If it's your first time in Nepal, your guide arranges accommodations in Kathmandu, airport transfers, and city tours tailored to your interests. Free from agency constraints, your guide helps you navigate local culture, avoiding tourist traps along the way.

Agencies often stick to rigid itineraries, limiting creativity. Our flexible approach allows for spontaneous itinerary changes and immediate responses to emergencies, ensuring a seamless journey.

Your guide's expertise extends to selecting top-quality staff for your adventure, including porters, kitchen crews, security personnel, and climbing sherpas for high-altitude expeditions. Fair compensation, proper equipment, and insurance coverage are guaranteed for all staff.

About Porters

Is it safe? What assistance can I expect from Guides Nepal regarding health and emergencies?

Your guide is well-versed in handling various health issues travelers may encounter. Feel free to discuss any concerns, from minor ailments to altitude sickness. Your guide prioritizes safe food, water, and gradual altitude acclimatization. In case of emergencies, swift evacuation arrangements can be made, whether by horse or helicopter.

Guides Nepal fosters a cooperative environment, where profits and expenses are shared, and continuous training and support are provided. This ensures top-notch service and safety for all our guests.