Mera Peak Expedition is a premier climbing adventure that strikes a balance between high-altitude ambition and accessible mountaineering. Standing at 6,476 meters, Mera Peak is officially Nepal’s highest trekking peak. Mera Peak is often called the perfect first Himalayan climb. This expedition offers an unparalleled gateway for those looking to transition from trekking to climbing. The journey progresses gradually, is well-paced, and feels deeply rewarding.

What sets this expedition apart is the gradual progression of the journey. While the altitude is significant, the ascent is designed to be steady and rewarding rather than rushed. Our unique route to Mera winds through quiet, pristine valleys and remote villages, offering a sense of solitude that is increasingly rare in the Himalayas. For the climber, the reward is a breathtaking panoramic stage featuring five of the world’s six highest mountains. This is an adventure where the vast, silent landscapes make the journey just as profound as the summit itself.

Who is Mera Peak Expedition For?

Aspiring Mountaineers: Ideal for trekkers ready to transition to their first 6,000m summit.
Solitude Seekers: Perfect for travelers who prefer quiet, remote wilderness over crowded commercial trails.
Ambitious Beginners: No technical expertise is required, making it accessible to anyone comfortable learning basic crampon and rope skills.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Map

Important Info

Overview

At 6,476 meters, Mera Peak is Nepal’s highest trekking peak. Although challenging, the climb never feels rushed or overwhelming. Compared to other peaks in the Everest region, Mera is far quieter. Its remote trails, silent valleys, and vast spaces create a peaceful, meaningful experience. As a result, you can enjoy both the physical challenge and the mental clarity the mountains inspire.

A Different Route, A Deeper Journey

At HiOnLife Expeditions, we approach Mera Peak differently. Instead of the busy Lukla route, we fly to Phapluand begin trekking from the remote village of Bung, deep in the Hinku Valley.

This route offers:

Comparatively the best acclimatization
Quiet trails with very few trekkers
Expansive mountain views and pristine high-altitude lakes
A true sense of remoteness and wilderness
Meaningful cultural encounters in remote ethnic villages

Mera Peak Clean-Up – Caring for the Mountains

At HiOnLife Expeditions, we live by the principle: “Leave nothing behind except footsteps.” Responsibility extends beyond reaching the summit.

On every expedition, we:

Carry back all our own waste
Use portable toilets with biodegradable bags at higher camps
Bring down and dispose of all human waste responsibly at designated sites
Collect an additional 20–30 kg of non-biodegradable trash left by others

All waste is carefully carried to Bung and disposed of responsibly. Through these efforts, we help keep the mountains clean, wild, and respected for future climbers.

This expedition is Graded IIB – Read more about our grading system

What makes this expedition special

One of the easiest 6000 m + mountains. Technical skills or previous climbing experience not required but fitness is mandatory.
Views of five of the six highest mountains in the world: Mt. Everest (8848m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8463m) and Kanchenjunga (8586m).
Beautiful trek through rhododendron forests, alpine lakes and high passes staying at remote ethnic villages
Considerably less crowded trails compared to Khumbu trail.
Helicopter ride from Kothe to Phaplu on return journey

Day 1 :

Arrive Kathmandu/ transfer to Hotel Manaslu

Once you’ve cleared immigration and collected your bags, head toward the arrival hall. Amidst the crowd, look for a friendly face holding the Hi On Life Expeditions signboard.

Just identify yourself to our representative, and we’ll take it from there. We’ll escort you to your vehicle for the 20 to 30-minute drive to the hotel, depending on the Kathmandu traffic. Once we arrive, we’ll get you checked in so you can relax and start your Himalayan adventure in comfort.

At the hotel, we’ll give you a short briefing about your activities, local customs, and helpful tips for your stay. We’ll also collect a few documents, so please keep them handy.

Original Pasport
Travel/ Medical Insurance (photo copy)

In the evening we will go for a traditional Nepali dinner at Kathmandu’s finest Nepali restaurant to end the day.

Day 2 :

Fly to Phaplu and drive to Bung

Fly to Phaplu: 30 mins
Drive to Bung: 4 hours
Elevation of Phaplu: 2415 m
Elevation of Bung: 1700m

An early morning scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu. Upon arrival to Phaplu, we will take a jeep to Bung which will take about four hour.

Bung is a Himalayan village in Solukhumbu and the heart of Mahakulung Rural Municipality. Set at 1700 meters near the Dudhkoshi and Hunku valleys, it’s home mainly to the Kulung community. Life here revolves around farming, tradition, and growing trekking routes that quietly connect Bung to the high mountains beyond.

Overnight Lodge

Day 3 :

Trek to Khiraule

Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation of Khiraule: 2400 m

The trek follows a gentle and gradual climb through paddy fields and picturesque houses.

Khiraule is a quiet Sherpa village tucked high in the Himalayan foothills. It feels wonderfully untouched—pine forests, open meadows, and snow peaks in the distance. Life moves slowly here, guided by Buddhist traditions, warm Sherpa hospitality, and a deep sense of peace far from crowded Everest trails.

Overnight Lodge

Day 4 :

Trek to Cholem Kharka

Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: 3600 m

We begin with a gradual climb through bamboo and rhododendron forest for roughly three hours to reach Surke la. There are a few tea shops, perfect for taking a lunch break. The trail continues through Rhododendron and bamboo forest. Soon we come out in the open where there are a few timber depot and sheep pastures. The trail continues north of this open pasture and climbs a ridge with bamboo forest. After a couple of hours we reach Cholem Kharka.

Overnight Lodge

Day 5 :

Rest and acclimatization at Cholem Kharka

In the morning we take an acclimatization hike. We ascend about 500m and come back to the lodge by lunch time. Rest of the day is free for exploring the area, washing etc.

Day 6 :

Trek to Panch Pokhari

Trekking: 4 to 5 hours
Elevation: 4200 m

The trail climbs steeply to a small pass which takes about a couple of hours. There are fantastic views of the Hinku valley and the peaks of Kusum Kanguru and Khyasar Khang. After taking a short break we continue to climb; now an even steeper switchback made of stone staircase until we reach Hurhure pass at 4200m. Soon we reach a small tea shop where we can get warm drinks depending on then season. We take a lunch break here. Another 45 mins climb will bring us to the highest pass at 4500m. After the pass it is about 30 mins descend to Panch Pokhari, which are a cluster of 5 lakes and hence the name. We usually take packed lunch this day and this place with the views of the lake is an excellent place to stop for lunch. After this break it is an easy 40 mins walk to our camp.

Overnight Lodge

Day 7 :

Trek to Kothe

Trekking: 6 to 7 hours
Elevation: 3600 m

The trail climbs steeply for about 45 mins to a pass. From here there are great views of the valley ahead. The trail is undulating and follows the side of the exposed mountain for about 2hours. Then we start to descend gently down to the tree line. Here we stop for lunch. After lunch we descend steeply into a rhododendron and birch forest. After about a couple of hours we reach the bank of the Hinku Khola. From here we ascend gradually following the river upstream for about an hour to reach Khote. Kothe is a small and beautiful village. There are several lodges and shops selling trekking clothes. They also have local bars with “carrom board” which is a kind of table snooker with small discs instead of balls. Here we also have the check post of Makalu Barun national park. We will need to entry your permits and pay national park fees.

Overnight Lodge

Day 8 :

Rest at Kothe

After having trekked for 6 days through rough terrain and steep ascents and descents we deserve a rest day here at Kothe. Give rest to your tired muscles, build up energy and get prepared physically and mentally for the days ahead. You can also utilize this day for showers, washing clothes etc.

Overnight Lodge

Day 9 :

Trek to Thangna

Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: 4400 m

Today is an easy walk with not much climbs, but watch out for loose falling rocks along the bank of the river. We will follow the river upstream along the erosion caused by the river system. It is a gentle and gradual ascent along the bank of the river for about 4 hours before we reach Thangna. Thangna is situated at an even flat area with breath magnificent views of the mountain peaks surrounding it. The peaks of Kyashar Kang lies towards the North and Kusum Kang Guru and Kangtega glacier towards North West. There are a few lodges here. We will stop here for the night.

Overnight Lodge

Day 10 :

Trek to Khare

Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: 5000 m

Today is again an easy walk following the Hinku Khola. There are no steep ascends and descends. Most of the time we are gradually climbing without even noticing the gain of elevation. We can see the Mera La right in front of us. Just about an hour before reaching Kahre, we will start to climb steeply until we reach Khare. Upon arrival to Khare, we will have lunch and settle to our rooms. In the afternoon we will take a gentle exploration of the area.

Overnight Lodge

Day 11 :

Rest and acclimatization- climbing training day

Today we will have some ice climbing training and safety instruction. For those who have never walked with big climbing boots and crampons, it is an excellent opportunity to practice that. After lunch we will go through your climbing gears and make necessary preparations for the climb.

Overnight Lodge

Day 12 :

Trek to Base Camp (Mera La)

Trekking: 3 to 4 hours
Elevation: 5400 m

Right from the lodge we will start to climb gently and steadily along a ridge. There are amazing views of the mountains surrounding us. It takes about two and a half hours to reach base Camp which is right beneath the Mera Glacier.

Overnight Tented Camp

Day 13 :

Climb to High Camp

Trekking: 3 hours
Elevation: 5780 m

After an amazing morning having breakfast with magnificent views of Mera Peak, we start to climb. About a hundred meters from Base Camp we will reach the bottom of the Glacier. Here we will put on our crampons and rope up with guides and start to climb. There are some short steep sections (about 25 to 30 degrees) until we reach the Mera La which connects the Hinku and Hunku valleys. You are surronded by views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Kanchendzonga and many more mountains. From here it is a gradual and gentle climb along the snow field to High Camp. On reaching High Camp, enjoy some warm drink. Then arrange your tent, and prepare all clothes and gears for the summit day. Early dinner and rest.

Overnight Tented Camp

Day 14 :

Summit

Trekking: 10 to 12 hours
Summit: 6461 m (Central summit)

Wake up around 2 AM. Breakfast will be served right away in your tent. We recommend you to carry your favorite snacks for the climb. At around 3 AM we start the climb. The first part of the climb is a gentle ascent of about 20 to 25 degrees. Then we climb the steepest section of the climb which takes about 2 hours. The slope is around 30 with switch backs along the face leading to the summit. We will climb on main rope attached to each member in groups of 4 to 5. We reach the bottom of the final ice serac, which leads to the summit, after a steady 5 to 6 hours climb. From the bottom of this serac we will fix rope and you will need to climb the fixed ropes using jumars for about 20 meters. Soon we are at the summit!

The will be rewarded with magnificent views of 5 of the world’s highest mountains. Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchendzonga, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Cho Oyu dominates the Northern Skyline. Towards the South, you can see the cascading hills receding towards the Great plains of India.

After a victorious moment spent at the summit, we will start to descend down. It is a good 11 to 12 hours day from High Camp to summit and back to Khare.

Overnight Lodge

Day 15 :

Contingency day in case of bad weather

Day 16 :

Trek back to Kothe

Trekking: 5 hours
Elevation: 3600 m

We will retrace our way back to Kothe down the Hinku valley. In the evening your guide will organize a staff farewell party. You can collect the tip for your staff and after dinner you can hand over the tip to the staff.

Overnight Lodge

Day 17 :

Helicopter to Phaplu

Helicopter: 15 mins

Morning Helicopter ride to Phaplu which takes about 15 mins. If we are able to take an early morning flight to Phaplu, then we will take a jeep to Mulkot so that the next day drive is shorter. If the flight is delayed, then we will explore Phaplu and take a jeep the next day to Kathmandu.

Overnight Lodge

Day 18 :

Drive to Kathmandu

Drive duration: 270 Kms, 9 Hours

On reaching Kathmandu, check in to your hotel.

Overnight Hotel

Day 19 :

Sightseeing tour

After breakfast set off on a guided tour.

Places you will visit:

Boudhanath Stupa: It is the largest stupa in Nepal and the holiest Tibetan Buddhist temple outside Tibet.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Commonly called Basantapur Darbar is one of three Durbar (royal palace) Squares in the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Day 20 :

Departure

We will drive you to Tribhuwan International airport about 3 ½ hours before your departure time.

Himalayan Mountaineering – Mera Peak Expedition

Since Nepal opened its Himalayan peaks for climbing, thousands of adventurers have challenged themselves to conquer these majestic mountains. The Himalayas offer both a physical and mental journey, pushing limits while rewarding effort with breathtaking landscapes.

Nepal has numerous peaks above 7,000 meters that require technical experience and significant investment. However, in 1978, the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) created a list of more accessible peaks ranging from 5,587 m to 6,654 m, called “Trekking Peaks.” Unlike technical expedition peaks, trekking peaks are achievable without complex logistics, making them ideal for aspiring mountaineers. Of the 1,310 identified peaks above 6,000 m, about a quarter are officially open for climbing.

Mera Peak – A Beginner-Friendly Climb

Mera Peak rises in the Hinku Valley, south of Mt. Everest. We approach it via Pangom, south of Lukla. The trek itself is stunning, featuring snow-capped peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine forests of birch, pine, and rhododendron. Along the way, we visit remote, non-touristic villages to experience the rich culture of the Sherpa people.

Mera Peak offers a safe introduction to high-altitude mountaineering. Most of the ascent involves walking up a glacier, requiring basic ice axe and crampon skills, which are reinforced during ice climbing training at Base Camp. The final summit dome may involve a short steep climb using a fixed rope and jumar, depending on snow conditions.

Grading: This expedition is graded II B. Please review our grading system for details.

Daily Life on the Trek

Each day begins with wake-up tea around 6:00–6:30 a.m., followed by washing and breakfast. We then pack and hit the trail, typically walking 3–4 hours before a lunch break of 1–1.5 hours. After lunch, we continue for another 3–4 hours, arriving at the lodge around 4 p.m. Tea, coffee, and snacks are served upon arrival, and optional afternoon excursions may be organized. Dinner is served around 7 p.m.

High-Altitude Safety

Mera Peak reaches 6,476 meters, so acclimatization is crucial. HiOnLife Adventures follows a slow, gradual ascent to minimize altitude-related issues. Headaches or breathlessness are normal; however, our Group Leader monitors all participants for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and will descend anyone showing severe symptoms. Hydration, rest, and gradual altitude gain ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Our Team

Group Leader: Trained in altitude sickness, first aid, emergency procedures, and local natural history.
Sherpas: Lead the trail and manage load distribution.
Porters: Carry trekking gear responsibly; each porter carries a maximum of 25 kg, ensuring humane working conditions. All porters are equipped with proper gear for safety and comfort.

Weather

October–November / March–April:

Lower altitudes (2,500–3,500 m): 10–15°C day, 3–7°C night
Higher altitudes (4,000–5,000 m): 2–7°C day, –10 to –5°C night
Summit day: –15 to –18°C plus wind chill

December–February:

Lower altitudes: 0–5°C day, –5 to 2°C night
Higher altitudes: –5–0°C day, –10 to –20°C night
Summit day: –15 to –20°C plus wind chill

Note: Weather can vary; these are general guidelines.

Gear Recommendations

Head:

Warm hat wool or synthetic that covers your ears
Balaclava
Sunhat
Glacier sunglasses with side shields, 1 pair ski goggles (optional)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Buff or head scarf, also useful for dusty conditions

Upper body

2 polypropylene or wool mix t-shirts
2 polypropylene or wool mix long sleeve t-shirts
2 long sleeve thermal underwear shirts, lightweight preferably woolen
1 polar fleece pullovers medium weight or 1 heavy wool thermal underwear
1 polar fleece jacket, OR Primaloft/ Down light weight jacket
Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
For high altitude use, 1 very warm goose-down jacket with hood (we provide HiOnLife Expedition down jacket)

Hands:

1 pair light weight wind-stopper gloves
1 pr. lightweight poly-liner gloves
1 pair mittens, consists of 1 Gore-tex over mitt matched with the very warm polar Fleece mitt liner OR down gloves

Lower Body:

1 pair walking shorts
1 to 2 pair walking trousers for trekking
2 pair lightweight thermal bottoms
1 pair medium or expedition weight thermal bottoms OR polar fleece trouser
1 pair Primaloft OR light weight down trouser for evenings at Base Camp and Advance Base Camp
1 pair Gore-Tex trousers, Waterproof/breathable with side zips

Feet:

1 pair climbing boot preferably for 6000m+ (you can also hire plastic boots in Kathmandu)
1 pair treking /walking boots with good ankle support
1 pair trainers, running shoes and/or sandals for Kathmandu and in camp;
1 pair down booties (optional)
2 pair med-heavy preferably wool socks
2 to 3 pair of liner socks. Polypropylene or wool
2 to 3 pair lightweight trekking socks, poly or wool

Sleeping- We provide the following:

1 down sleeping bag (rated to – 20 Centigrade or -0 F )
1 polar fleece liner
Exped Down 7W mattress and foam kari-mats.

Rucksack and Travel Bags:

1 medium rucksack (40-50 litres)
We provide you 1 big duffle bags.
Small padlocks for duffel kit bags.

Accessories:

1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing repair kit
1 cigarrette lighter
1 compass or GPS (optional)
Camera
Nylon stuff sacks for food and gear storage, large Ziplocs are useful also
3 Water bottles (1 litre)
1 small folding knife
Books, playing cards, ipod/mp3 player, games, small musical intruments
Adequate amount of batteries, etc.

HiOnLife Adventures provides sleeping bags, down jackets, and duffle bags for the trek.

Health & Safety

No compulsory vaccinations are required for Nepal, but consult your doctor for Typhoid, Hepatitis, Polio, and Meningitis. If taking prescription medication, bring enough supply for the entire trek. Mosquito-borne diseases are not reported in trekking regions.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, including emergency helicopter evacuation.

Money & Tipping

Bring USD for expenses.
Kathmandu meals: $4–6; taxis $10–20.
Trek: $6–10/day for hot showers, snacks, drinks, and small donations.
Tipping: Recommended $250 per trekker for guides and Sherpas, distributed at the farewell ceremony.

Cultural Etiquette – Do’s & Don’ts

Avoid full or partial nudity.
Limit public displays of affection.
Remove shoes in temples/monasteries.
Do not point soles at people or shrines.
Follow local customs around prayer wheels and stupas.

Mera Peak Expedition

Who is Mera Peak Expedition For?

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Map

Important Info

Overview

A Different Route, A Deeper Journey

Mera Peak Clean-Up – Caring for the Mountains

What makes this expedition special

Itinerary

Price: 3250 USD (MIN 4 PAX )

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Map

Himalayan Mountaineering – Mera Peak Expedition

Mera Peak – A Beginner-Friendly Climb

Daily Life on the Trek

High-Altitude Safety

Our Team

Weather

Gear Recommendations

Head:

Upper body

Hands:

Lower Body:

Feet:

Sleeping- We provide the following:

Rucksack and Travel Bags:

Accessories:

Health & Safety

Money & Tipping

Cultural Etiquette – Do’s & Don’ts

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Who is Mera Peak Expedition For?

Overview

A Different Route, A Deeper Journey

Mera Peak Clean-Up – Caring for the Mountains

What makes this expedition special

Itinerary

Price: 3250 USD (MIN 4 PAX )

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Map

Himalayan Mountaineering – Mera Peak Expedition

Mera Peak – A Beginner-Friendly Climb

Daily Life on the Trek

High-Altitude Safety

Our Team

Weather

Gear Recommendations

Head:

Upper body

Hands:

Lower Body:

Feet:

Sleeping- We provide the following:

Rucksack and Travel Bags:

Accessories:

Health & Safety

Money & Tipping

Cultural Etiquette – Do’s & Don’ts

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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