Current as of: March 14, 2025 - 04:57
Mera Peak Climb Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Destination: Nepal
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
7 out of 7 - Tough
- 21 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 18+
- Trip Code: TNB
- Carbon Footprint: 16.7kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Summit the highest trekking peak in Nepal with the help of our expert Sherpa guides and carefully planned itinerary
Test yourself against Mera Peak, the highest trekking peak in Nepal at 21,246ft (6,476m). Though tough, the ascent is a non-technical climb, which anyone with ice axe and crampon experience can attempt. With the help of our expert guides and porters, built-in acclimitisation and contingency days, and plenty of willpower, you can reach the summit of this beautiful Himalayan peak. The reward is a view over five of the six highest mountains in the world: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu.
Why trek with Exodus?
- One of the highest staff-to-trekker ratios on the trek with one staff member to every three trekkers
- More than 30 years’ experience running treks in Nepal
- Carefully planned ascent rates and itineraries with built-in acclimatisation and contingency days
- We beat the Everest crowds by rising early, avoiding foot traffic on the trails and getting into the next teahouse early for hot showers
- Established protocol for Lukla flight delays
- Exodus annually commissions independent air-safety audits on domestic carriers in Nepal and only use those approved as part of the audit
- Experienced English-speaking local tour leaders who are qualified in first aid and trained to spot and deal with altitude sickness
- All staff (tour leaders, guides and porters) are fully insured and paid a fair wage
- Staff carry oxygen, a first-aid kit, and self-assessment acute mountain sickness cards, used to monitor every trekker at altitude
- Speak to Exodus office staff who have done the trek themselves
At a Glance
- Accommodation: 3 Classic nights (hotel), 17 Simple nights (16 teahouse, 1 full-service camping)
- 17 trekking days with full porterage
- Group normally 4 to 12, plus tour leader, climbing guides and local staff. Minimum age: 18
- Altitude maximum: 21,246ft (6,476m); average: 12,008ft (3,660m)
- Travel by private minibus and two internal flights
- Climbing equipment bundle included
- Experience of trekking at altitude, and using ice axe and crampons, is required
- Experience walking roped-up, and using jumar and abseil device, is required
Highlights
- Summit Mera Peak, the highest trekking peak in Nepal, for views over Everest and more
- Discover ‘off the beaten track’ valleys on the circular trek
- Hike among lush rhododendron forests and wild barren mountains
- Attempt the climb from a high camp to give the best chance of summiting
- Conserve energy as staff take care of all the camp chores for you
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is graded Activity Level 7 (Tough). Please read our Activity Level Guidelines before booking this adventure.
Trip difficulty: This is not a beginner’s trek. It requires stamina, you should be physically fit and exercise regularly. You must have experience of trekking at altitude, using an ice axe and crampons and we recommend you have experience of walking roped-up and using jumar and abseil devices. The trek visits remote mountain regions and many of the trails are rocky. There are some very steep ascents, descents, some narrow trails, and the occasional bridge crossing. We do not recommend this for anyone who suffers from a fear of heights or vertigo. You must always follow the tour leader’s advice and decisions.
Altitude: The altitude can have a significant impact on your physical state – please refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes.
Route: Mera Peak has three summits: Mera North, Mera Central and Mera South. Like most tour operators, we climb the safest, Mera Central. Most of the climb is the equivalent of Alpine Grade F (Facile/Easy); however, the final 100ft-130ft (30m-40m) is Alpine Grade PD (Peux Difficile/Slightly Difficult).
- Summit attempt: You are roped up from High Camp due to crevasses. For the last 165ft (50m), which is very steep, our guides fix a rope and you need to use a jumar (also known as an ascender). On descent, you must abseil a short distance from the summit.
Equipment: We leave for the summit in the night, and it can be very cold on summit day with temperatures down to -30C (-22F). There can also be high winds and snow. You must be fully equipped for the cold conditions and have all the gear we list as essential in the Mera Peak Kit List. There are compulsory equipment checks and practice sessions for climbing equipment. Anyone who does not participate in all of these sessions may not be allowed to attempt the climb – this is at the tour leader’s discretion.
Hiking times: Times stated within the itinerary are approximates only. Timings exclude lunch stops and vary depending on the group’s pace.
Just the trek, skip the summit: There is no issue for those that would like to join this trip for just the trek element without taking on the summit day. The trek is a fantastic circular route in the Everest region and still offers plenty with the quieter trails and stunning scenery even if you don’t summit Mera Peak. We still recommend you have experience with altitude trekking and if you would like to go up to “Crampon Point” (day 12), winter skills will also be necessary (ice axe, crampon use and being in a rope team). You will have the option to stay in the last tea house at Khare while the group continue up to Mera Peak over days 13 and 14. You would then be reunited with the group on their return to Khare for the return trek to Lukla.
Internal flight delays: Adverse weather conditions at Lukla airport occasionally mean flights to/from Kathmandu cannot operate. We include an additional day at the end of the itinerary to allow for this. However, persistent bad weather could delay the start of your trek or your return to Kathmandu.
- If there is a lengthy delay at the start of your trip, we aim to provide a shortened trek; if adverse weather conditions continue, and the main objective of the trek is impossible, an alternative trek to another region of Nepal will be offered. If fixed-wing planes are unable to fly, but helicopters to Lukla are available, you may choose to travel by helicopter; in this event, the price per person is approximately US$500-US$600 per person, of which Exodus covers half. We also have a contingency day on trek to assist where weather delays may occur.
- If there is a significant delay at the end of your trek, we attempt to get you on the first available fixed-wing flights to Kathmandu. If helicopters can fly, we will consider paying for these on a case-by-case basis to enable you to meet your international flight. In the case of persistent adverse weather, Exodus will rebook international flights for those who have booked their flights through us; please be aware, travellers who did not book their flights through us are responsible for re-booking their onward travel and for any associated costs.
Nepal flight safety: The mountainous Nepalese terrain is subject to changeable weather, which makes flying conditions complex and challenging; unfortunately, there are significantly more incidents here than in other countries, including fatalities. The EU highlighted the poor safety record in Nepal in 2013 by including all Nepalese-registered airlines on the EU banned list, which prevents them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese-registered airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU instigated this ban to highlight the risk of flying in Nepal to EU citizens. These airlines are unlikely to be members of any internationally recognised safety audit systems and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of Western nations.
Flying within Nepal is therefore a known risk, and we strongly encourage you to consider this carefully before booking. We suggest you refer to the following sources:
- The current travel advice for Nepal issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
- The Air Safety Network entry for Nepal
In response to concerns over this safety record, Exodus arranges for independent air-safety auditors to visit Nepal annually to assess the suitability of the available carriers. We then restrict our use to only those approved as part of this audit. In emergency situations, we will need to use helicopters, so we also have a list of approved helicopter carriers. Should concerns arise regarding the safety of an airline on our approved list, we will remove the carrier from the list immediately, and it would only be reinstated once our air-safety auditors are confident the airline meets acceptable safety standards.
We appreciate you may have concerns about flying within Nepal, so we ask that you please consider all the information above when deciding to book this trip.
Group
The group is generally four to 12 people.
We have representatives in Kathmandu who look after your transfers to and from the airport and are around to answer other questions you may have about your trek. There is an Exodus desk and noticeboard in the Royal Singi Hotel in Kathmandu. The desk is manned morning and evening.
There is an English-speaking Nepali tour leader throughout the trip. All our Nepali tour leaders are highly experienced, trained in wilderness first aid and have taken their Exodus leader training courses. There is one member of staff for every three trekkers – this ratio may change if a guide has to stay behind with a group member. The tour leaders are assisted by additional guides who are licensed by the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and receive additional training through Exodus. Our climbing guides are also qualified by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA); many have summited Everest and other 8000m peaks and have usually worked with Exodus for many years.
All your main gear is carried for you, so you only carry what you need for that day’s trek. You climbing gear is carried by a separate set of porters who meet us before the summit climb – please see the Essential Equipment section for further details.
Adult min age: 18
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 12
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Kathmandu
- End City: Kathmandu
Land Only Itinerary
Depart London
The overnight group flights usually depart London this evening.
Start Kathmandu
The adventure starts at the Royal Singi Hotel, which has hosted countless numbers of our trekkers over the years.
This evening, your tour leader will gather the group for a pre-trek briefing. This is a great chance to meet your fellow trekkers but the leader will also brief you on key safety points for the trek and carry out equipment checks to ensure everyone is traveling with the appropriate gear required for the summit.
Please bring your climbing/summit equipment as well as your insurance details and two passport-size photographs for the climbing permits to this briefing.
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)
Early morning transfer to Manthali Airport; spectacular flight to Lukla; trek to Piuyan
Leave our hotel at approximately 3am to drive (approximately four hours) to Manthali Airport. Here, we catch our spectacular flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region and the start point for the popular trail towards Everest. It is a busy village with lodges, equipment and supply shops.
We start our trek heading south with a steep descent to the small town of Surke. From here, we have a steep climb up to the Chutok La pass from where we contour into a side valley to Piuyan.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 9,121ft/2,780m)
Leave the main trail and climb through farmland to Pangkongma
This morning, we climb eastwards, steeply at first, on a trail that winds steadily upwards over the Khari La pass (10,000ft/3,050m) and through terraced farmland towards the small trading village of Pangkongma. Looking back, we get good views of Numbur and Karyolung mountains.
Accommodation: Teahouse (altitude: 9,350ft/2,850m)
Cross the Pangkongma La pass; descend to the Hinku Khola river and ascend the valley to Nashing Dingma
Climb steeply through a forest of bamboo and rhododendron with views looking back to Numbur and Kongde peaks to the Pangkongma La pass (10,400ft/3,170m). From the top, we can see Naulekh peak and, just below the pass, we catch our first views of Mera’s impressive south face. It’s a long, steep descent to the bottom of the valley, with views south over the hills of the lower Himalaya. We have lunch in a small lodge just above the river; after, we cross the Hinku Khola river using a suspension bridge and have a two-hour climb up the east side of the valley to Nashing Dingma.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 9,721ft/2,963m)
Steep climb to the Surkye La pass; on to Chholem
We continue hiking the ups and downs that distinguish this first part of the trek. The trail becomes steeper as we climb to the Surke La, a pass that gives us a taste of the altitude yet to come. We’ll need a cup of tea to catch our breath in one of the teahouses just over the pass, before continuing our climb up to the summer grazing land of Chholem Kharka. We should arrive for a late lunch; in the afternoon, the energetic can hike up onto the ridges surrounding Chholem.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 11,810ft/3,600m)
Cross the Pangkongma La pass and Surke La pass into Khola Kharka
Trek up above the tree line this morning and approach wilder country, where the Sherpa communities only herd their animals in summer. It’s quite a hard day today with steep climbs and several ridges to cross. We ascend on stone steps all the way to the first col at 14,100ft (4,300m) and then further up to a second col at 14,665ft (4,470m). On a clear day, we get a stunning view of Kanchenjunga and its pointed neighbour Jannu far away to the east in India. From the second col, we descend to the holy lakes at Panch Pokhari. Our teahouse in Khola Kharka is a short way past the lakes.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 14,010ft/4,270m)
Follow the Khola Kharka to Kote
There are no lodges en route today, so we have a long morning and late lunch – take snacks and plenty of water. From Khola Kharka, we have a steep climb up stone steps for 30 minutes to prayer flags. Just around the corner, we get great views across to Numbur, Pikey Peak and the Lamjura Pass. The route contours around the hillside and then descends very steeply to the Mojang Khola. We cross the river and descend even further to the Hinku Khola river. A rolling trail brings us to a bridge across the roaring Hinku Khola and into Kote. We have a late lunch at the lodge and there is time in the afternoon to explore the village.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 11,810ft/3,600m)
Ascend from Kote, Hinku Valley to Tangnag
We have a wonderful hike today following the Hinku Khola on a rocky trail upstream, crossing several landslide areas. Just after leaving Kote, we can see the three peaks of Mera. As we ascend the valley, Kyashar peak appears ahead followed by Kusum Kanguru and East Peak. We stop for a cup of tea at Saure and reach Tangnag for a late lunch. We stay in Tangnag for the next two nights. We are now in a deep valley created by the towering walls of Kyashar, Kusum Kanguru and East Peak.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 14,272ft/4,350m)
Acclimatisation day at Tangnag
We spend the day acclimatising to the altitude. There is a hike this morning to the top of a ridge south of Tangnag. We hike to approximately 16,400ft (5,000m) and should have great views of Kusum Kanguru, Kyashar, East Peak and the Mera La pass. We return to camp for lunch and rest in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 14,110ft/4,300m)
Half-day hike to the last lodges at Khare, our base camp
It’s a short day with approximately three to four hours of ascent past Dig Kharka to Khare, the Mera Peak base camp. The trail climbs steeply out of Tangnag to some prayer flags overlooking the glacier tumbling down from Kyashar. The trail gets easier as we climb up the valley past Dig Kharka and then there is a last steeper climb to the lodges at Khare. We have lunch in Khare and a free afternoon. We get great views of Mera, Charpati Himal, Kyashar and other Himalayan giants.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 16,404ft/5,000m)
Acclimatisation, ice axe and crampon practice
We have an acclimatisation day at Khare and there is a chance to hike up onto the glacier towards the Mera La pass, where we practice our ice axe, crampon and rope technique, and use of jumar. There is a full equipment check at Khare.
Please note: Equipment checks and practice sessions are compulsory before the climb.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 16,404ft/5,000m)
Trek to ‘crampon point’ for acclimatisation, returning to overnight in Khare
We have a short but hard hike up to the Mera La pass for our acclimatisation training today. The trail climbs steeply out of Khare on a rocky trail with great views ahead to the peaks of Mera and Khare. Continuing up, the trail gets steeper. There may be snow, and we need crampons and helmets as we climb the very steep rocky gully onto the glacier. On the glacier, the gradient eases off and we follow it up to the Mera La. After a short rest, we descend back to lodge at Khare base camp for the night.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 16,404ft/5,000m)
Trek to High Camp
Today we trek to High Camp. Retracing the first part of yesterdays practice route, we pass through the Mera La, a very cold and windy spot. The trail is not so steep from here, and it continues up the glacier to High Camp, a small, busy campsite. From camp, it is possible to see five of the six highest mountains on earth, stretching from Kanchenjunga in the east through Makalu, Lhotse and Everest to Cho Oyu in the west. There is a final gear check this afternoon and we prepare our clothes ready for tomorrow. After sunset (look out for the last orange glow on the summit of Makalu), we retire to our sleeping bags to rest before the summit attempt tomorrow.
Please note: High Camp is extremely cold and basic, with camping space very limited. Due to the conditions, meals and briefings are delivered by the guides on a tent-to-tent basis.
Accommodation: Full-service camping (sleeping altitude: 19,030ft/5,800m)
Climb Mera Central
We have a very early (and usually very cold) start – around 2am or earlier. We set off roped up in teams. You need to carry your ice axe and wear crampons as we ascend the wide, open glacier, avoiding the few crevasses. The terrain here is not very steep, but the going is very slow due to the altitude, and it can be very cold and windy. As dawn approaches, the trail starts to ascend steeply to the east of the left-hand ridge before swinging right on easier ground to approach the summit. As we approach the top, we rest at a col while the Sherpa guides fix a safety rope to the bottom of the last part of the summit climb. The last 165ft (50m) to the summit is the steepest part of the climb. We need the jumar for this last section – it is steep and makes the climb more challenging. Please note: Crevasses here change from year to year.
Once at the top, the views from the sun rising over Kanchenjunga in the east, past Makalu to Everest in the middle and Cho Oyu further west, make every step worthwhile. Take a moment to enjoy your achievements and capture that all-important team photo!
Descending this steep section involves abseiling from the summit and we use the fixed rope back to the col. From here, the descent is usually quicker, although we are still roped up. We descend to High Camp, where we have hot soup and drinks. We then descend all the way to Khare, usually arriving very late afternoon. After a long but rewarding day, returning to a lower altitude means we should all sleep soundly.
Please note: Summit day can be extremely cold and sometimes windy. You must be able to get ready quickly and move as fast as you can to keep warm. Should a situation develop on summit day where members of your roped group are not suitable to continue then all people roped together will be expected to descend. This decision is made by the guide.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 16,404ft/5,000m)
Contingency day for Mera Peak climb
We can’t guarantee we will have favorable weather for the summit as planned; therefore, this day is set aside as a contingency in case we are unable to summit Mera Peak due to bad weather or any other unanticipated reason. If everything goes as planned, we continue down to Kote and enjoy an extra day to complete our return to Lukla.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Retrace our steps through Tangnag to Kote
Today we have a long but beautiful hike as we retrace our steps down the valley. The route takes us through a mix of gentle ascents and descents, through yak pasture and scenic landscapes. We pass through the village of Thangnag, where we have lunch, entering dense forests of rhododendrons, oak, pine and birch.
After a rewarding day of descending, we arrive in Kote, where we rest tonight. Spend the evening reliving your adventures together and enjoying each other’s company.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 11,810ft/3,600m)
Steep climb out of the valley towards the Zatrwa La pass to Chetrabu
It’s a hard day today as we begin our ascent of the Zatrwa La, the pass that brings us back to Lukla. Leaving Kote, a small rocky trail takes us down the Hinku Valley for a couple of hours. There are some very steep rocky steps both up and down. We finally leave the Hinku Khola river and begin a very steep climb through the forest. We have an early lunch at Toktar, a small cluster of teahouses in the forest. Through the trees, we can just spot the summit of Mera Peak now far away. After lunch, we continue climbing up through forest. The rhododendron trees give way to smaller bushes and the mountains begin to appear across the valley. Looking back on a clear day, we can see all three summits of Mera, Peak 41 and Naulekh. The higher we climb, the better the views, and we can trace much of the route we have trekked the past couple of weeks. Finally, we reach a few prayer flags; from here, the trail eases as we approach the lodge at Chetrabu, where we can enjoy views of Mera’s vertical west face.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 13,860ft/4,225m)
Return to Lukla over the Zatrwa La pass
We need to carry crampons or microspikes today for the descent of the pass. From the lodge, it’s a steep climb to the top of the first (and highest) part of the Zatrwa La at 15,525ft (4,640m). There is a small tea shop near the summit. From the top, we get fantastic views of many of the peaks of Khumbu. There is a short, steep descent, which can be icy. Then the trail contours precariously around the hillside for an hour or so to the second Zatrwa La at 14,895ft (4,540m). From here, we have a very steep descent to Kharka Tseng. This section of the trail can be snow or ice covered, and we may need crampons, ice axes and ropes. After a snack lunch, we continue our descent on a rocky trail to Chutenga, then it’s a further couple of hours or so back to Lukla.
Accommodation: Teahouse (sleeping altitude: 9,185ft/2,800m)
Fly to Manthali Airport and transfer to Kathmandu
We fly back to Manthali Airport in the morning, then we transfer (four to five hours) to our hotel in Kathmandu and head straight for a hot shower or cold beer, depending on priorities!
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)
Free day in Kathmandu for individual sightseeing
The day is free to explore Kathmandu. You may wish to visit the monkey temple at Swayambunath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world at Bodnath, or the most important Hindu temple in the valley at Pashupatinath. We offer a full range of sightseeing tours, which can be booked and paid for locally. Please see the Optional Excursions section within the Trip Notes or the Exodus noticeboard in the hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)
End Kathmandu
The tour comes to an end after breakfast, so it’s time to start your return journey home. If you’d like a little more time to explore Kathmandu, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Fly to London
The trip ends after breakfast. Those travelling on the group flight will be transferred to the airport after breakfast.
Post-trip Extensions
Chitwan Safari Extension
A five-day wildlife extension is the ideal opportunity to explore the lowlands of Nepal and enjoy rest and relax after the challenges of your trekking journey.
Travel from Kathmandu to your jungle lodge in search of roaming wildlife at Chitwan National Park. With the help of an expert naturalist, you explore the home of the one-horned rhino, while also spotting birds, crocodiles, deer and boar. Find a more detailed itinerary here.
Please ask your sales representative for more details. Prices listed are starting prices.
Price per person
£ 749
Mandatory Single Supplement
£ 365
Altitude Charts
Altitude Warning: This trip includes one or more nights over 9,845ft (3,000m) above sea level, where there is a genuine risk of being affected by acute altitude illnesses; if left untreated, this can be life-threatening. Most should expect to experience some mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, shortness of breath or sleeplessness. Our leaders are trained to identify symptoms of severe altitude illnesses and, if a customer requires extra care, arrangements such as a rapid descent will be made.
Exodus itineraries are informed by the Wilderness Medical Society (WMS) Guidelines for the Prevention of Altitude Illnesses and designed to allow for adequate acclimatisation. Due to terrain and/or logistical factors, there may be nights where the sleeping altitude gain is more than 1,640ft (500m), increasing the risk. The WMS highlight that because the rates of acclimatisation and physiologic responses to high altitude vary considerably between individuals, the recommendations given, although generally effective, do not guarantee successful prevention. Participants should be aware of the inherent risk posed by altitude.
Several medical conditions or medications can affect a person’s ability to acclimatise, making them more susceptible to acute altitude illnesses. Those with pre-existing conditions, such as heart or lung conditions, those who have suffered with altitude sickness before, or those with concerns about overall physical ability, should consult their doctor before booking. The drug Diamox (acetazolamide) may aid acclimatisation in some individuals. Those considering using Diamox should speak to their doctor about the drug, its suitability, side-effects, and a prescription. Please note, while we endeavour to assist all our customers in achieving their goals, there may be times when a leader decides to delay or stop someone’s ascent based on their condition.
If you are not taking out Exodus Travel Insurance, make sure your policy covers you up to the maximum altitude on this trip (if trekking in the Himalaya your policy should also cover the use of a helicopter for emergency medical evacuation).
Please note: It is possible the order of the itinerary listed above will be changed to ensure the best possible conditions for each activity during the trip. All listed activities and services will be included. Your leader will inform you of any changes locally after assessing conditions.
Ascents, descents and distances: All ascents, descents and distances listed in the daily itinerary have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. However, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these Trips Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Hotels, lodges and camping
We begin and end the adventure at the Hotel Royal Singi in Kathmandu, within walking distance of the buzzy Thamel district, a prime location to many amenities. On trek, we have 16 nights in teahouses and spend one night camping.
Kathmandu: Hotel Royal Singi (nights 1 and 19-20)
The Hotel Royal Singi has been welcoming Exodus trekkers for more than two decades. The name is inspired by the Snow Lion, a mythical creature in Tibetan Buddhism, which symbolises immense joy, positivity, delight and comfort. The hotel embraces the name with a restaurant, bar, outdoor courtyard, and complimentary wifi throughout. There’s also an Exodus desk in the lobby and an Exodus representative is usually available daily in the mornings and evenings. The Royal Singi is well located near the Thamel district, close to banks, restaurants, shops and attractions.
Teahouses in the Everest region
Staying in teahouses is a time-honoured tradition for trekkers in the Himalaya. They may be basic, but teahouses become a welcome sight after a day of hiking through the region. The hub of teahouse living is the dining room, which is usually decorated with traditional rugs, sometimes with a stove or heater (some lodges charge a fee to put the heater on). Most teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as tissues, soap and toilet paper.
We stay in twin-share bedrooms, which come with foam mattresses, bedsheets and a pillow. Remember to bring (or hire) a sleeping bag, rooms are unheated so can get cold at night.
Camping: Full-service (night 13)
For the Mera Peak summit climb, we spend one night camping at High Camp, a very basic fixed camp − the only option if you want to summit. The camp is managed by the staff at the Khare lodge, who also cook and do camp chores, allowing you the time to focus on summiting the mountain. The camp has a kitchen tent, and the guides of each group collect the food and serve it to you in your own tent. They also fill water bottles and brief on a tent-by-tent basis. The tents themselves are very basic; there is also a very basic toilet “shack” with a long-drop, squat toilet.
Worth knowing
- If you prefer your own room, we offer a single supplement for the three nights in Kathmandu only (subject to availability). While in the tea houses, single rooms cannot be guaranteed but if a single room is available that night, you can pay locally on a day-by-day basis. Single tents are not available for the night camping due to safety considerations.
Single supplement from £ 140
Food & Drink
Breakfast is included throughout and all meals are provided while camping.
In the teahouses, breakfast is a choice of bread (a slice of toast, chapatti or Tibetan bread), a choice of egg (boiled, fried or omelette), and a choice between either muesli or porridge each day. Hot tea/coffee is also served. On some days, either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey is served – these options are not available in all teahouses and so we have only included them in locations where they can be guaranteed.
Lunch is taken at a teahouse en route – sometimes one of your guides will go ahead with the group’s order to make it more expedient. Dinner is in the same teahouse that you sleep at (this is customary in Nepal as teahouses base their room rate on it).
Although many lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat to pizza and apple pie. Dhal bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and comes in many different forms but generally comprises some curried lentil dhal and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular snack is momos, a type of Nepalese dumpling filled with meat or vegetables.
Although meat is available in the teahouses, we advise against eating it on trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for several days before reaching the lodges and can cause stomach upsets or illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money – we recommend using hand gel.
Restricted diets: If you have a gluten-free diet, we strongly recommend you bring some extra food and snacks with you to supplement the food on trek as there will be little variety available for you, particularly for breakfast. Even many of the soups are powdered and contain gluten. Gluten-free breakfast options are limited to vegetable fried rice and a choice of egg; on specific days, a trekkers breakfast (without the toast/with an extra egg) will be served. Breakfast options for vegans are limited to a choice of muesli/porridge with water each day, and, on specific days only, a trekkers breakfast (without the egg) or vegetable fried rice. If you are lactose intolerant, the same will apply although you also have a choice of egg each day.
Drinking water: Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 0.7gal to 1gal (three to four litres) per person per day. We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal.
The teahouses sell boiled water for approximately 150-300 Nepalese rupees (US$1.15-US$2.30) per litre (the price increases the higher you trek), which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double as a hot-water bottle.
Alternatively, all teahouses provide free cold water. This should not be drunk untreated, so we recommend you bring a reusable bottle/water bladder/CamelBak (ideally two and wide mouth) and use an effective form of water treatment. There are a wide range of products available including Steripens or purification tablets, which are the quickest and easiest options to use on trek – we recommend talking to an outdoor retailer for the latest advice as technologies are improving all the time. Make sure to check the product’s performance in cold/freezing conditions and consider battery life (lithium batteries are best in cold conditions).
Exodus has partnered with Water-to-Go, a filtration system that eliminates more than 99.99 percent of all microbiological contaminants from any non-saltwater source – visit Water-to-Go for more information. Exodus customers can claim 15 percent off their first order and, better still, 15 percent of the purchase value will be donated to the Exodus Travels Foundation. These bottles filter the water as you drink, though the spout may not be the most efficient while moving on trek. Please note, if the water freezes it will clog up the filter. In this event, defrost before use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
Transport
We use a private minibus for airport transfers. Flights to/from Lukla are usually in a Twin Otter or Dornier plane.
Please read our note on flight safety in Nepal in the Is This Trip for You? section of our Trip Notes.
This trekking trip requires you to hike between each overnight stay under your own steam. Other forms of transport may be available at some (not all) points along the route (horses, 4x4s etc) but Exodus cannot take responsibility for the safety or cost of any transport that you choose to take separately from the group, even if provided with the assistance of our leader or staff.
Weather & Seasonality
The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for hiking, the sky is clear much of the time, and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures vary from 15C to 35C (59F to 95F) in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10C (50F) at 11,800ft (3,600m) and progressively lower the higher we go. Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.
Mid-September to November. This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are normally above 20C (68F). Skies are usually clear and, below Khare, days on trek are usually sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Higher up, there can be snow and, above Khare, it will be cold as you are on a glacier. Nights are colder with temperatures dropping as low as -30C (-22F) at the highest altitudes.
March to May. Temperatures are warmer in general but haze often builds in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35C (95F) in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring. There can be rain or snow on trek.
There will be snow above Khare at the Mera La pass and High Camp. Summit day is a very early start and will be very cold. There may also be high winds on Mera La and on summit day. You need to be equipped for temperatures as low as -30C (-22F) plus windchill on summit day. You must heed the advice of your guides on summit day about keeping moving and keeping warm. There can also be snow and ice on the Zatrwa La.
The weather is never wholly predictable in any mountain area and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Royal Singi Hotel, Lal Durbar, Kamaladi, Kathmandu
Phone: +977 144 24190
Recommended arrival time: We recommend arriving at the start hotel by 4pm today. There will be a welcome and safety briefing in the evening, it is essential you join this meeting with your leader and the group.
Airport: Kathmandu Airport (KTM)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 10-20 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Kathmandu Airport (KTM) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Kathmandu
Location end: Kathmandu
What To Take
Essential Equipment
It is essential you have suitable clothing and equipment for your trek to protect against the elements and trail conditions. Please download our Mera Peak Climb kit list for reference.
All luggage for the trek should be packed in a soft kitbag/Exodus kitbag. Many people find it easiest to pack the kitbag inside a wheelie case, which can be left at the Kathmandu hotel free of charge with anything not needed for the trek, while the kitbag is carried by your porter on the trek.
When packing, please consider the quantities/volume of the items you bring: decant larger toiletries into small reusable bottles (do not bring full-size toiletries), take a lightweight travel towel etc. There is a weight restriction on the flight to and from Lukla of 55lb (25kg) checked baggage plus 11lb (5kg) hand luggage. If your checked luggage exceeds this, there is an excess luggage charge (approximately 200 rupees per kilogram).
On arrival in Lukla, the climbing gear (any items not needed until the summit day) will be separated and taken via a shorter route to Khare (on the way back to Lukla, all porters hike with you so that if you need crampons, boots or ice axes for the Zatrwa La they will be with you at that point).
Your kitbag with your gear for the trek is carried along the same route as you by a porter and should weigh no more than 26lb (12kg). In line with the flight weight restrictions, we recommend planning your packing as follows:
- Main trekking days: Personal kit bag (clothes, sleeping bag, toiletries etc.) = 26lb (12kg) maximum
- Day pack (water, layered clothes/waterproofs/camera/snacks) = 11lb (5kg) maximum
- Summit/climbing kit (boots, helmet, crampons, summit gloves, extra snacks etc.) = 17lb (8kg)
- Total weight = 55lb (25kg) per person.
Your tour leader weighs each bag before departing Kathmandu and may ask those with bags that are too heavy to remove non-essential items and leave them in Kathmandu.
Mosquito repellent is highly advised (please refer to advice on avoiding dengue fever in vaccination section)
There are many equipment shops in Kathmandu where you can buy much of the required clothing, but the quality does vary and cannot be guaranteed so you should choose carefully. If you would like to purchase items when you arrive in Kathmandu, we recommend arriving at least one day earlier to the main trip start to allow for plenty of time to make any local purchases as the main arrival day will be busy with group preparations.
Local Equipment Hire
Exodus will provide the following items for your climb:
- Ice axe
- Climbing harness
- Ascender
- Jumar
- Karabiners
- Figure of 8
- Prussic loops
- Safety rope
Additional required equipment can be hired through Exodus – the equipment is good quality but depending on the items can be bulky and you should take this into account when packing due to the porterage weight limit. Hire equipment should be requested and paid for in advance of travel but will be provided locally in Kathmandu. We highly recommend bringing your own helmet, crampons and climbing boots to ensure you have the best fit, although it is possible to hire locally (sizes may be limited).
Approximate hire prices are:
- Down jacket (approximately 1.8kg):from £63 / US$69
- Four-season sleeping bag (approximately 2.3kg):from £84 / US$93
- Package including a down jacket and a four-season sleeping bag:from £105 / US$116
- Helmet (approximately 300 grams): From £21 / US$23
- Climbing boots (approximately 3-4 kg per pair): From £84 / US$92
- Crampons (approximately 600g – 1 kg): From £42 / US$46
For specific advice on individual items, we recommend you talk to a specialist outdoor retailer before your trip. Please speak to our Customer Operations team for more information
Donations for porters, children and the elderly
If you find a spare bit of space in your bag while packing, you may be interested in donating to one of Exodus’ projects. Exodus supports a Porter Clothing Bank in Kathmandu, schools in Kathmandu and various villages, and a care home in Kyanjin Gompa in the upper part of the Langtang Valley. If you have any old hiking gear, this can be donated to porters. Warm clothing or blankets can be gifted to the care home – please leave items with your leader or at the Exodus desk at the Royal Singi Hotel. Books, stationery, games, warm clothes/underwear etc suitable for children aged five to 18 should be taken to the Ambassador Garden Home in Thamel and given to Prakash Lammichanne (+977 1 4700724).
Exodus kitbag: If you book this trip, we provide a free Exodus kitbag to pack your luggage in while on trek. Once you have booked, you will be sent instructions on how to claim your bag (they are not sent automatically). Please note, if you book less than three weeks before the departure date, we cannot guarantee your kitbag will arrive before your trip starts. If this is the case, please contact us on customerops@exodus.co.uk (or customeroperations@exodustravels.com if you’re based in the US or Canada). See www.exodus.co.uk/kitbags for full T&Cs.
Additional Equipment Hire: Exodus has partnered with the following outdoor specialist for great rates on expedition kit hire (UK-based customers only) or just general advice and guidance on the best kit and equipment needed for your trek.
Please note that supplies are limited, and it is advisable to reserve any equipment as early as possible.
- TrekHire: Offers Exodus customers a four-week hire period for their technical gear, including items such as down sleeping bags (which includes cleaning costs). This extended hire period gives you ample time to prepare and return your gear after your trip. TrekHire also provides assistance with reviewing your kit list, offering advice on how to use your gear, and recommending what to buy or avoid. Additionally, they own a shop called Surrey Trek and Run, where you can enjoy a 10% discount on in-store items (excluding walking boots).
- Expedition Kit Hire: Offers a 10% discount on hire prices for Exodus customers (excluding already discounted pre-made package deal kit lists, such as those for Kilimanjaro and Everest Basecamp). For extended hires (beyond the standard two-week hire), they offer a reduced daily rate, which often provides savings greater than 10%. Please ask our Customer Operations team for the Exodus customer discount code.
Practical Information
Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months when you submit your application for a visa. You should also ensure your passport is up to date, is valid for the entire length of your stay and that you have completed the emergency contact details page inside your passport.
Visa
Nepal
You can obtain your visa in advance or on arrival. The Immigration Department of Nepal has suspended visas on arrival for certain nationalities – please check if this applies to you with your nearest embassy or consulate.
Visa in advance
Apply for this through your local consulate or embassy. Further details on this option can be found here:
- For UK passport holders: https://uk.nepalembassy.gov.np/visa/
- For US passport holders: https://us.nepalembassy.gov.np/tourist-visa/
When applying for your visa in advance, the Nepalese government has an online application system (see links above for more info), but it is currently only accepting payments through Nepalese payment channels. Once the online form is completed, the applicant is required to print out the form and either send it, together with the passport, to the embassy, or attend in person.
Visa on arrival
- When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, there will be three lines. If you have already secured your visa, go straight to the Immigration line. If not:
Fill in a tourist visa form at the electronic kiosks. After inserting your passport, the machine will automatically fill out an application form, take an electronic photograph of you and print a paper slip. If the machine won’t read your passport, complete the details manually using the touchscreen. We recommend taking a passport photo with you just in case.
Top tip: This process can be completed through the online immigration portal (click ‘Visa On-Arrival’) within 14-days prior to arrival in Kathmandu, helping you to avoid lengthy queues at the kiosks when you come through immigration – ensure you print and bring the confirmation with you. If you have completed your visa on arrival form in advance, go directly to the visa fees counters with your printed confirmation and skip the kiosk queues. - Proceed to the visa fees collection counter and pay the visa fee (in cash, if possible). Make sure to keep the receipt. Card payments are not always possible, so paying in cash is easiest, most currencies are accepted but US dollars are preferred.
- Go to the relevant immigration desk and present your tourist visa form, payment receipt and passport to obtain your 15-, 30- or 90-day visa stamp. Please check you have been given the correct visa duration.
Vaccinations and Health
Nepal
There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Some travellers may also need proof of a polio vaccination. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
There is little to no risk of malaria in Nepal; therefore, antimalarial tablets are not usually advised although may be considered for certain high-risk groups. You may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice.
Additionally, dengue fever and chikungunya are known risks in Nepal. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Most of our trips to Nepal go to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes for further advice on AMS.
When trekking at altitude, and particularly in cold weather, there is a higher chance of developing a cough (sometimes referred to here as the Khumbu cough) or cold symptoms. These symptoms could be a result of inhaling cold mountain air or dust (in the Everest region). You can mitigate against picking up coughs and colds by washing your hands with soap and water at available opportunities and using hand sanitiser. Also wear a buff over your neck and mouth when walking at altitude, particularly in colder weather, which will help limit cold, dry air entering your airways and keep your neck and chest warm.
Ticks are known to be present in this region and can carry lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and other diseases. Please take care to protect yourself. You can read more about ticks here.
Local Time
Nepal's time zone: Asia/Kathmandu (UTC +05:45)
Electricity
Nepal's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), D (three round pins) and M (three round pins) – 230V, 50Hz Mains electric 'load shedding' (planned temporary power cuts) occur regularly throughout towns and cities in Nepal. On teahouse treks, the majority of lodges now have electricity and charging facilities in the communal areas for batteries, for a fee. Battery life can be affected by cold; lithium batteries are best.
Money
Nepal's currency: Nepalese rupee (NPR) It is illegal to import or export rupees, but foreign currency is not limited, provided it is declared on arrival. Keep your change receipts, as you will need them if you want to change rupees back into hard currency at Kathmandu airport.
ATM Availability
There are ATMs in Kathmandu and other major towns. You need to carry cash for the trek.
Please do not rely wholly on ATMs as many are broken or run out of money. Often there are ATM lounges (a small room with numerous ATMs). Some banks have a withdrawal limit equivalent to about US$125 per time; if you need to withdraw more money than this, look for another ATM with a higher limit (others have a maximum of about US$375 per time) to avoid paying the transaction fee multiple times.
Credit cards are accepted in many of the larger shops and restaurants in Kathmandu but are of no use on the trek.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Take your spending money in cash (US dollars, British pounds or euros). Cash can be exchanged easily at Kathmandu airport on arrival or at money changers in the Thamel area of Kathmandu. Hotels in Nepal can also change up to US$300 per person. Our staff will advise on how much money to take with you on the trek.
You need to withdraw/exchange enough money in Kathmandu to last the duration of your trek – to cover meals, drinks, tipping and other incidentals. It is a good idea to carry spare cash on the trek in case of an emergency. Carrying a large amount of cash is unavoidable so we suggest splitting it up into a few different places – remember to keep track of how much you have stashed where.
Food and amenities in teahouses generally become more expensive the higher/more remote you are and access to ATMs/money changes are extremely limited. Please allow 4,400-5,800 rupees (US$33-US44) per day for lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks, showers, toilet roll and charging on trek, and for meals not included in Kathmandu. This amount is given as a rough guideline only.
Your expenditure will be towards the top end if you buy boiled water rather than treating cold water, and depending on how many hot showers you take, if you pay to charge electrical devices, drink alcohol, use wifi on the trek and so on.
If you’d like to purchase a trekking map for 500 rupees (US$4), please speak to your tour leader at the welcome briefing and he will provide the relevant map for you.
Optional excursions
A few optional tours and activities are available from Kathmandu.
A half-day sightseeing tour starts at 5,300 rupees (US$40) per person, based on a group of six and above. Return transport and a qualified sightseeing guide are included. The price does not include lunch or entry fees. Please enquire with your tour leader in Kathmandu, who can provide further information.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Nepal and is usually expected. Your tour leader usually offers to arrange and look after a group tipping kitty, which is used to tip hotel porters, local guides, assistant guides, porters, and the drivers. Your tour leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but a rough guideline is provided below.
Tipping of the tour leader is at your discretion and separate to the amount they will suggest for the other staff. We suggest you send an envelope around the group at the end of the trip, and you can put in what you like and give to the leader on the last evening.
The following are guideline amounts received by each staff member from the group as a whole…
- Tour Leader: 40,000-45,000 rupees (usually tipped on the last night in Kathmandu)
Your trekking crew (tips are usually given on the last evening of the trek in Lukla): - Trekking guides: 25,000-30,000 rupees for each guide
- Trek porters: 18,000 rupees for each porter
General tipping guidelines:
- Drivers for seasonal departures with Manthali flights to Lukla: 1,000-1,500 rupees for each driver
- Drivers (shorter journeys): 200-300 rupees
- Hotel porters: 100 rupees each time for each room
- Teahouses and lunch stops on the trek: It’s customary to round your bill up to the nearest 50 or 100 rupees
- Restaurants: 10% of the bill for good service
To help budget for the tips, generally there is one member of trek staff (guide/assistant) for every three trekker. You also have one porter for every two trekkers to carry your luggage. If you are unsure on how much to budget, you can check with your tour leader in Kathmandu. Please try to give all tips in local currency.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony though practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.