Embarking on a Mera Peak climb is an exciting challenge. By understanding the cost, having a clear itinerary, going in the right season, and taking along an experienced guide, you set yourself up for a successful adventure. Mera Peak offers an incredible payoff – the chance to stand atop a 6,000+ meter peak with some of the Himalayas’ most iconic mountains in sight. With careful planning and respect for the mountain environment, your Mera Peak expedition can be the experience of a lifetime with Overland Trek Nepal. Safe climbing and happy trekking! Your Happiness is Our Business Growth!
Mera Peak Climbing Cost and Itinerary
Details Mera Peak Climbing Cost, Itinerary, Permits & Essential Tips
Mera Peak Climbing Cost and Itinerary is a crucial topic for adventurers aiming to summit Nepal’s highest trekking peak. Mera Peak (6,476 m/21,247 ft) offers an accessible yet thrilling Himalayan climbing experience, but planning the budget and trek route is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we provide a detailed Mera Peak climbing cost breakdown, a full Mera Peak trek itinerary, information on Mera Peak permit fees, the role of a Mera Peak climbing guide, the best time to climb Mera Peak, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or using a trekking company like Overland Trek Nepal, this well-researched blog will help you prepare for a safe and unforgettable Mera Peak adventure.
Mera Peak Climbing Cost Breakdown
Climbing Mera Peak involves various expenses, from permits to guides. On average, a guided Mera Peak expedition costs around $3,000 – $4,000 per person, which typically includes permits, guide/porter services, domestic travel, meals, and accommodations during the trek. Independent trekkers can tailor their budget but must still account for all major cost components. Below is a Mera Peak climbing cost breakdown to help you plan your budget by Overland Trek Nepal:
Mera Peak Permit Fees
Permit costs are a significant part of the budget. The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) charges seasonal rates for the Mera Peak climbing permit (per person):
- Spring (March–May): $250 (peak season, best weather)
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): $125 (popular season with clear skies)
- Winter (Dec–Feb) & Summer/Monsoon (June–Aug): $70 (off-season – fewer climbers, but harsher conditions)
In addition to the climbing permit, climbers must obtain local area and national park permits. The Makalu Barun National Park entry fee (for the Hinku Valley route) is around $30 for foreign nationals. Likewise, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee (local permit in the Lukla/Khumbu region) is about NPR 3,000 (30 USD). These permit fees contribute to conservation and local development and are mandatory for all climbers.
Guide and Porter Fees
Hiring an experienced Mera Peak climbing guide and/or porter is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and carrying heavy gear. A licensed trekking guide typically costs about $30–$50 per day, while a porter costs around $20–$30 per day. For a standard 12–15 day trek, budget roughly $500–$800 for guide/porter services (often this cost is split in group climbs). If your expedition includes a specialized climbing guide (a Sherpa for the summit push), there may be an additional fixed cost (e.g., around $250–$300 for the summit days), which is sometimes already included in package trips.
Note: Nepal has regulations requiring trekkers to have a guide or to go through an agency for such climbs, so plan accordingly.
Accommodation & Meals
Teahouse lodgings on the Mera Peak route are basic but affordable. Along the trail, expect to pay around $5–$10 per night at teahouses or lodges in villages (Khare, Kothe, etc.). In Kathmandu (before/after the trek), hotels can range from budget $30/night to splurge options, but for our purposes a mid-range hotel $40–$60 per night is a typical budget. Meals on the trek (dal bhat, noodles, soups, etc.) cost about $4–$8 per dish. Trekkers generally spend $20–$30 per person per day on food and drinks during the trek, which would total roughly $250–$400 for a two-week expedition. At higher elevations, food prices rise slightly due to the difficulty of transporting goods. Don’t forget to include snacks, boiled water or purification tablets, and the occasional treat (like a hot tea or coffee) in your food budget.
Transportation
The journey to Mera Peak usually starts with a flight fromKathmandu to Lukla. The round-trip flight cost to Lukla is about $350–$450 (approximately $175–$225 each way per person). If you opt for an alternative route starting with a jeep or bus to the trailhead (for example, driving to Sotang or Jiri and trekking via the Hinku valley), costs might be lower, but travel time is longer. Internal transportation in Kathmandu (airport transfers, etc.) and possibly a flight out of Lukla at the end should be budgeted as well. Always have a buffer Day for possible flight delays in Lukla due to weather.
Gear and Equipment
Mera Peak is a non-technical climb, but you will need proper mountaineering gear. Essential equipment includes insulated boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, ascender/jumar, carabiners, ropes (usually provided by guides for group), a helmet, and cold-weather clothing (down jacket, gloves, etc.). If you already own high-altitude gear, you’ll save money. Otherwise, gear rental/purchase can add $200–$500 to your costs. For example, renting a down jacket or climbing boots in Kathmandu might cost $2–$5 per item per day. Ensure your gear is good quality – the right equipment is vital for safety when attempting a 6,000m peak.
Travel Insurance
Insurance is a must when climbing peaks in Nepal. A comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking/climbing (usually coverage up to 6,000m or higher), including emergency evacuation, is typically $150–$250 for the duration of the trip. This can vary based on your home country and coverage specifics. Do not skimp on insurance; helicopter evacuations in remote Himalayan regions can cost tens of thousands of dollars, so having coverage for altitudes above 6,000m is highly recommended for peace of mind.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Factor in the Nepal visa fee (US$50 for 30 days on arrival for most nationalities), any required COVID tests or permits if applicable, personal expenses like bar bills, battery charging fees in teahouses, hot showers (often $2–$5), Wi-Fi cards, and tips for your crew. Tipping is customary at the end of a trek: as a guideline, tip your guide and porter roughly 10% of the total trip cost or a flat amount (e.g., $100+ for a guide, $50+ for a porter, depending on service and group size). It’s also wise to have some extra cash for unforeseen events or an extra acclimatization day.
Tip
If you book a Mera Peak package with a trekking agency Overland Trek Nepal, many of these costs (permits, flights, guide, food, camping gear, etc.) will be bundled into the price (often ranging from $2000 to $4000, depending on group size and services). Independent trekkers might save some money, but organizing logistics and route-finding in remote areas like the Hinku Valley can be challenging. Always double-check what’s included in your package (for example, some cheaper packages might exclude lunch/dinner in Kathmandu or require you to rent some gear separately).
By understanding these cost components, you can budget effectively for Mera Peak. Now that we’ve broken down the expenses, let’s look at the actual trekking route and schedule to reach the summit.
Mera Peak Trek Itinerary
The Mera Peak Trek Itinerary can range from 15 to 18 days, depending on your route and acclimatization needs. Below is a typical 15-day Mera Peak climbing itinerary via the popular Hinku Valley route (crossing the Zatrwa La pass), which includes ample acclimatization and a contingency day. This itinerary starts and ends in Kathmandu:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Meet your Overland Trek Nepal Company representative, do last-minute gear checks, and complete permit formalities. Take a rest day or explore the city’s cultural sites. (If you already are in Nepal, this day can be for trip preparation and briefing.)
Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,840 m) and trek to Chutanga (3,100 m)
Take an early morning 30-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. After landing on the tiny airstrip, begin trekking. The trail starts by winding through rhododendron and pine forests. A gentle 3-4 hour trek brings you to Chutanga (approx 3,100–3,500 m), a small pasture area with a few lodges. Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3: Trek from Chutanga to Thuli Kharka (4,300 m) via Zatrwa La Pass (4,610 m)
A challenging day crossing the Zatrwa La (Zatrwa Pass). You’ll ascend steeply to the pass, which sits at about 4,600 m, often snow-covered and adorned with prayer flags. From the top, you’re greeted with your first stunning views of Mera Peak and the Hinku Valley. Descend carefully on the far side of the pass for another few hours. Overnight at Thuli Kharka (4,300 m), a high grazing area with a small lodge/camp site. (Trekking time: ~6-7 hours)
Day 4: Trek from Thuli Kharka to Kothe (3,600 m)
Descend into the lush Hinku Valley. The trail drops through rhododendron forests with panoramic views of peaks like Kusum Kanguru. You’ll lose elevation (which helps with acclimatization) as you follow the Hinku River northward. Reach Kothe (3,600 m) by afternoon and check into a teahouse. Kothe is a riverside settlement where you might meet other climbers. (Trekking time: ~5-6 hours)
Day 5: Trek from Kothe to Thangnak (4,350 m)
Follow the Hinku Valley further up. The route climbs above the tree line, and you’ll start to notice the air thinning. Pass by scattered yak pastures and the remains of some ancient monasteries. Enjoy views of Mera Peak’s towering face as you approach Thangnak (4,350 m), a small Sherpa village with a few lodges. Take it slow to adjust to the altitude. (Trekking time: ~4-5 hours)
Day 6: Trek from Thangnak to Khare (5,045 m)
This is a shorter but significant day as you ascend above 5,000 m. The trail follows the lateral moraine of the Dig Glacier, offering close-up views of glacial ice. After a few hours, arrive at Khare (approximately 5,000 m), the last permanent settlement and Mera Peak Base Camp area. Khare has several teahouses that serve as base camps for climbers. You’ll likely reach by lunchtime, so in the afternoon, rest or take a short acclimatization hike to the surrounding ridges. (Trekking time: ~3-4 hours)
Day 7: Acclimatization and Training Day in Khare (5,045 m)
Spend an extra day at Khare to acclimatize. This is crucial for safety and to improve summit success. In the morning, your climbing guide will conduct a pre-climb training session. Practice using crampons, jumars, rope techniques, and ice axe on a nearby snow slope or glacier edge. Even if you’re an experienced climber, a refresher course helps. The rest of the day, stay hydrated, eat well, and relax. You can explore the moraine or hike a few hundred meters up and come back down (“climb high, sleep low” principle) to aid acclimatization. Overnight at Khare.
Day 8: Trek from Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780 m)
Today, you move to high camp and leave the comforts of teahouses. Pack your essential climbing gear and follow your guide up towards Mera La Pass (around 5,400 m). Many expeditions establish a Mera Peak High Camp a bit further up at ~5,800 m on a rocky outcrop, which provides a shorter summit day. The climb to high camp is steep in sections but not technical – it’s mostly a glacier walk with crampons. As you ascend, breathtaking vistas open up: you’ll see Everest, Makalu, and other giants on the horizon. Arrive at high camp by afternoon and settle into tents. Your crew will prepare warm meals. It will be very cold and windy here, and oxygen is scarce, so keep warm and stay positive. Sleep early in preparation for the summit push. (Trekking/climbing time: ~5-6 hours)
Day 9: Summit Mera Peak (6,476 m) and descend to Khare
Summit day! Wake up around 2:00 AM for a pre-dawn alpine start. After a quick hot drink and breakfast, gear up with your Mera Peak climbing guide – don crampons, harness, ropes – and set off by flashlight. The route is a steady climb on snow slopes (30-40 degrees incline). There might be a few crevasses (usually marked and bridged). After 4-6 hours of steady climbing, as dawn breaks, you approach the summit. The final section may involve a 30-meter rope ascent up a snowy dome, depending on conditions. By mid-morning, reach the summit of Mera Peak (6,476 m)! Congratulations – you are standing on the highest trekking peak in Nepal. From the top, enjoy an unparalleled 360° view of five 8,000m peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga, as well as countless other mountains. After savoring the moment and taking photos, descend carefully to high camp, pack up, and continue down to Khare. It’s a long descent day, but dropping to thicker air is refreshing. Celebrate with your team in Khare in the evening for your successful climb. (Total duration: 8–10 hours round-trip)
Day 10: Contingency / Extra Day
This extra day is built in in case of bad weather or any delays. If Day 9’s weather is not suitable, the summit attempt can be made on Day 10. If you summited on Day 9, you can use this day to rest at Khare or begin the return trek earlier. (Many itineraries include 1-2 buffer days because Himalayan weather can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to miss the chance to summit due to a tight schedule.)
Day 11: Trek from Khare to Kothe (3,600 m)
Begin the return journey by retracing steps down the valley. It’s much faster and easier going down. Descend from high alpine terrain back into greenery. By the time you reach Kothe, you will have dropped over 1,400 m of elevation from Khare – your breathing becomes easier. Enjoy the increased oxygen and perhaps celebrate with a drink or a special meal. (Trekking time: ~6 hours)
Day 12: Trek from Kothe to Thuli Kharka (4,300 m)
Instead of climbing back over Zatrwa La in one go, you’ll break it into two days. Trek back the same way, ascending through forest to Thuli Kharka. The trail undulates with both ups and downs. At this point, your legs may be tired, but the end is in sight. Overnight at Thuli Kharka, where the night will be cold but not as extreme as high camp. (Trekking time: ~5-6 hours)
Day 13: Trek from Thuli Kharka to Lukla (2,840 m) via Zatrwa La
Final day of trekking. You’ll start early to cross Zatrwa La pass again. After about 2 hours of ascent, reach the pass and bid farewell to the Hinku Valley views. The descent on the other side to Lukla is long but gradual. By afternoon, arrive back in Lukla. This feels like a return to civilization – hot showers and cold drinks await! In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and porters and celebrate the completion of the trek. (Trekking time: ~6-7 hours)
Day 14: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
Weather permitting, take the morning flight back to Kathmandu. A thrilling 30-minute flight brings you from the mountains back to the bustling city. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest. This day serves as a buffer in case of any flight delays out of Lukla (which are common if the weather is bad).
Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
Trip concludes. If you have extra days, you can tour Kathmandu or join other adventures. Otherwise, depart Nepal with incredible memories and a proud sense of achievement from summiting Mera Peak.
Note: This itinerary is just one example. Some climbers opt for a longer approach (18-20 days) that avoids the immediate high pass crossing and goes via villages like Paiya, Panggom, and the Hinku River valley – which can be easier for acclimatization. Always allow some flexibility in your schedule for acclimatization and weather.
Best Time to Climb Mera Peak
When planning for Mera Peak, timing is everything. The best time to climb Mera Peak is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal:
- Spring (Pre-Monsoon: March to May): This is one of the best times to climb Mera Peak. Spring offers gradually warming temperatures, longer daylight hours, and generally stable weather up until late May. The trail comes alive with rhododendron blooms at lower altitudes. In spring, the mountain still has a good snow cover, which can make climbing conditions on the glacier favorable (and the views of snow-capped peaks are stunning). It’s also a popular season for expeditions, meaning you’re likely to meet other climbers (more social atmosphere and shared trail breaking if the snow is deep). Late spring (May) starts getting more heat and chance of pre-monsoon storms, but overall March–April–early May are excellent months. Keep in mind that the permit cost in spring is highest, but many find the great weather worth it.
- Autumn (Post-Monsoon: September to November): Autumn is another prime season for Mera Peak, especially October and early November. The summer monsoon rains clear the atmosphere of dust, yielding crystal-clear skies and superb mountain views. Temperatures in September are moderate (though you might catch the tail end of the monsoon in early September), and by October the weather is usually dry and stable. Nights will get colder as November progresses, especially at high camp, but the stability means a high success rate for summits. Trails and teahouses can be busy in autumn since this is Nepal’s peak trekking season. November days are shorter, and by late November winter conditions start appearing (possible snow). Overall, autumn’s stable weather and clear views make it perhaps the most popular time.
- Monsoon (June to August): The summer monsoon season is not ideal for Mera Peak. The lower part of the trek (up to Kothe) will be soggy, with heavy rain, leeches in the forests, and clouds obscuring views. The Hinku Valley can be prone to flooding or landslides on trails, and flights to Lukla are unreliable due to weather. Higher up on Mera, deep snow and avalanche risk can make conditions dangerous. Only very few (and very experienced) teams attempt Mera in the summer. On the plus side, permit fees are cheapest in the off-season, and there will be almost no crowd, but the risks and difficulties are significantly higher. Unless you are an expert climber with flexibility, the monsoon season is not recommended.
- Winter (December to February): Winter brings cold and clear conditions. Early December can still be a decent time right after the autumn season, but by mid-winter, temperatures plummet. At Mera High Camp, nighttime lows can reach -25°C or worse, and the summit will be extremely cold and windy. The skies are often clear, and the crowd is thin (a winter ascent offers solitude), but heavy snowfall or weather windows can be an issue. Technically, climbing Mera Peak in winter is possible (and permit costs are low in winter), but it is only for climbers who are well-experienced in extreme cold conditions and ready for a tougher challenge. If you do attempt a winter climb, ensure you have top-notch gear and maybe schedule extra days in case you need to wait out winter storms.
- Conclusion on Timing: Spring and Autumn are by far the best times to climb Mera Peak due to their balance of good weather, manageable temperatures, and reliable trail conditions. These seasons also align with when the trekking infrastructure (teahouses in the valley) is fully operational. Choose spring if you prefer slightly warmer temperatures on summit day (and don’t mind a bit more snow underfoot), or autumn if you prioritize crystal clear views and don’t mind colder nights. Regardless of season, always check long-term weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden weather changes in the Himalayas.
Hiring a Mera Peak Climbing Guide
While Mera Peak is classified as a “trekking peak” (non-technical climb), it should not be underestimated. Hiring an experienced Mera Peak climbing guide is highly recommended and, in many cases, necessary. Here’s why a guide (and support team) is beneficial:
- Safety and Expertise: A qualified guide (often a Sherpa or Nepali climber familiar with the route) greatly enhances safety. They know the trail, the weather patterns, and the mountain’s quirks. On summit day, a guide will navigate the glacier, identify crevasses or avalanche-prone areas, set the route with fixed ropes if needed, and handle any emergencies. Their expertise is crucial in high altitudes where judgment can be impaired by thin air. Mera Peak guides also carry a first aid kit and know altitude sickness response and evacuation procedures.
- Logistics and Navigation: The approach to Mera Peak involves remote trails through forests and moraines where one can easily take a wrong turn, especially crossing the Zatrwa La or finding the best path on the glacier. A guide removes the stress of navigation.
- Cultural Bridge: Trekking with a local guide also enriches your experience. They can share insights about the Sherpa culture, local customs, and the environment.
- Porters and Team: In addition to a guide, you can hire porters to carry heavy gear (usually, a porter carries up to 20-25kg). Using porters not only makes your trek easier (so you can conserve energy for summit day) but also creates jobs locally.
- Is a Guide Mandatory? As of recent regulations (2023 onward), Nepal requires individual trekkers on most routes to be accompanied by a guide or to join a group. While some very experienced climbers do Mera Peak solo or unguided by arranging their permits through a local agency, it requires significant effort and risk.
- Cost of Guide Services: We discussed guide/porter rates in the cost breakdown, but keep in mind that these costs often include the guides’ expenses (their insurance, equipment, food, and pay). When you hire through a reputable company, everything is usually bundled.
In summary, a Mera Peak climbing guide is an investment in your adventure’s success. You’ll gain not only safety and convenience but also local knowledge that can transform your climb into a richer experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Mera Peak Climbing
Q1: How much does it cost to climb Mera Peak?
A: The cost to climb Mera Peak varies based on whether you go independently or with a guided package. On average, a guided Mera Peak trip costs about $3,000 – $4,000 per person, inclusive of permits, guide/porter, domestic flights, meals, and accommodations during the trek. If you plan independently, you might manage on around $1,500 – $2,500 by arranging your own permits, hiring local staff directly, and choosing budget options.
Q2: What permits are required for Mera Peak?
A: Mera Peak requires multiple permits:
- Mera Peak Climbing Permit: Issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association. The fee depends on the season (Spring $250, Autumn $125, Winter/Summer $70 per person for foreign climbers). This permit is specific to climbing Mera Peak.
- Makalu Barun National Park Permit: $30 per person (if you trek via the Hinku Valley, which is the standard route approaching Mera Peak from the south). This entry permit goes toward conserving the national park area you’ll be trekking in.
- Local Area Permit (Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality): NPR 2,000 (about $20-25) per person. This has replaced the old TIMS card in the Everest region; you obtain it at Lukla or Monjo checkpoint, and it’s required for all trekkers in the region, including the Mera Peak area.
If you were to approach Mera Peak via the Everest side (less common route via Namche Bazaar), you’d need the Sagarmatha National Park permit(NPR 3,000) instead of Makalu Barun. However, most itineraries only require the first two permits plus the local permit. It’s best to arrange these through a trekking agency or guide to ensure you have all paperwork in order before heading to the mountain.
Q3: How long does it take to climb Mera Peak?
A: The entire Mera Peak trip usually takes about 15 to 18 days round-trip from Kathmandu. The trekking and climbing portion (from Lukla back to Lukla) is typically 12-15 days. This includes time for proper acclimatization (usually two or more rest days) and often a contingency day for weather.
Q4: How difficult is Mera Peak, and do I need prior climbing experience?
A: Mera Peak is considered a moderate to challenging adventure, primarily due to its high altitude. Technical difficulty: It is often billed as a “trekking peak” because the route is mostly a sustained trek on snowfields and glaciers (with a short, steep section near the summit that may require fixed ropes). You do not need extensive technical climbing experience to climb Mera Peak, as there are no vertical cliff sections or highly technical pitches. Basic training in how to use crampons, harness, ascender, and ice axe is usually sufficient – and this is often taught during an acclimatization day at Khare.
Q5: Do I need a guide, or can I climb Mera Peak solo?
A: While it’s physically possible for experienced mountaineers to climb Mera Peak without a guide, it’s highly discouraged for most people to go solo. In fact, as of recent rules, independent trekking in Nepal’s high mountains has been restricted – foreigners are expected to have a guide or join a registered group, especially for climbing peaks. Reasons to have a guide: safety (navigation on the glacier, handling ropes, altitude issues), assistance (setting up high camp, cooking, carrying group gear), and local knowledge (weather assessment, communication). Mera Peak’s region is remote – if you run into trouble or fall sick while alone, help might not be readily available. Additionally, obtaining the climbing permit typically requires providing a guide’s details or going through a trekking agency (the NMA often issues permits via agencies). In short, unless you are a seasoned alpinist familiar with Nepali bureaucracy, you should hire a Mera Peak climbing guide or join an expedition. It not only enhances safety but also enriches your experience. Many solo travelers join group expeditions to share costs and meet the requirement of not climbing alone.
Q6: What is the best time to climb Mera Peak?
The best time to climb Mera Peak is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable weather and favorable conditions in the Himalayas. In spring, you’ll experience moderate temperatures and spring blossoms (with the trade-off of slightly higher permit fees and some snow on the route). In autumn, you get clear post-monsoon skies and crisp weather (but nights can be colder). Both seasons have a high success rate for summits. Winter (Dec–Feb) is possible for experienced climbers but involves extreme cold and off-season logistics. Monsoon season (June–Aug) is not recommended due to heavy rain, obscured trails, and high objective dangers. (Refer to the “Best Time” section above for more details on each season.)
Q7: What gear do I need for Mera Peak?
A: You will need a mix of trekking and mountaineering gear:
- Clothing: Good layered clothing system – base layers, mid-layer (fleece/down sweater), insulating jacket (heavy down jacket for high camp), shell jacket and pants (waterproof/windproof), warm trekking pants, thermal underwear, multiple pairs of wool socks, warm gloves (plus liner gloves), insulated mittens for summit, a warm hat/beanie, buff or neck gaiter.
- Footwear: Sturdy waterproof trekking boots for lower trails and insulated mountaineering boots (double boots or high-altitude boots) for above base camp/summit. Gaiters are useful in the snow. Also bring camp shoes or sandals for evenings.
- Sleeping: A -20°C rated sleeping bag (for cold high camp nights), sleeping bag liner, and possibly a foam or inflatable sleeping pad if camping (most package trips provide pads).
- Climbing Gear: Crampons (steel, compatible with your boots), ice axe, climbing harness, ascender (jumar) and carabiner, rappel device (figure-8 or ATC), a helmet, and perhaps trekking poles for balance on trails. If you go with an agency, they often provide group gear like ropes, ice screws, etc., but personal gear you must bring or rent.
- Accessories: Sunglasses (with UV protection, snow glare is intense), headlamp (with spare batteries for summit night), water bottles (and/or hydration bladder, though bladder tubes may freeze higher up), a thermos for hot drinks, sunscreen (high SPF) and lip balm, basic first aid kit and personal medications (include altitude meds like Diamox if advised by your doctor), water purification tablets or filter, and some snacks/energy bars for quick calories on long days. Many of these items can be rented or bought in Kathmandu if you don’t own them. Make sure to test and break in your gear before the climb – especially boots – to avoid issues on the mountain. Packing smartly with the right gear will keep you comfortable and safe during the expedition.
Q8: What about altitude sickness on Mera Peak?
A: Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness, AMS) is a key concern on Mera Peak due to the rapid ascent to high altitudes. The best prevention is proper acclimatization. That’s why the itinerary includes rest days and follows the rule of not ascending more than ~500m in sleeping altitude per day once above 3,000m (with occasional bigger jumps mitigated by rest days). Common symptoms of AMS include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and dizziness. If you experience symptoms, inform your guide immediately.