Mera Peak Expedition
Less than 3 weeks to Explore Remote Villages and Valleys with an Easy Ascent Over 21,000 feet / 6400 meters and a Helicopter Out
Follow the least trodden route of the Everest region via the incredible Hinku Valley. This beautiful climb will take you to the 21,247 foot / 6476 meter Himalayan summit of Mera Peak. The ascent is over easy glacier terrain and is suitable for beginner climbers with no experience — you’ll learn everything you need to know on the climb. From this summit, you will see the six highest peaks in the world spread out before you. This trip is sure to thrill aspiring climbers!
On the approach, you will trek over 15,000+ foot passes and wind your way through rhododendron and bamboo forests before heading up into the alpine zone of rock and glaciers. Along the way you may visit the local Buddhist monks chanting in the rocky perch of the region’s only monastery. You’ll have the chance to take pictures of the beautiful Hinku Valley by day and play lively card games with the porters by night.
The perfect first climb in the Himalayas along with Island Peak
The trip begins in Kathmandu with a city tour. Here you will visit several important Buddhist and Hindu sites, evade the monkey patrols, and enjoy some fine Nepali dining. From there you will travel to the village of Lukla before heading into the mountains.
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Price
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Mera Peak
$6,900 – 22 Days / Includes travel time
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Single Supplement (I want my own room) – $600
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Price Includes
- Climbing permit fees
- Domestic airfare to/from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Four scheduled hotel nights in Kathmandu at the Yak-n-Yeti (double occupancy)
- Scheduled restaurant meals in Kathmandu
- All food and lodging during the trek and climb
- All team climbing gear, tents and cooking gear
- All expedition staff including Sherpa support, base camp personnel, porters and pack animals
- Airport transfers
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Price does not Include
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa and airport fees
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, tea house showers, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Meals, Day 3
- Lunch Day 4, 30
- Dinner, Day 23, 24
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Guide/Sherpa/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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Mera Peak 2025
- Oct 30, 2025 — Nov 20, 2025
Custom Dates Available — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with your departure date from the US and include the day you arrive home.
For this trip you will need to arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal on Day 3 of the itinerary. You will cross the date line in mid-flight to Asia, thus losing a day. If you are traveling from outside the US. your itinerary may require less time to reach Kathmandu, so all that is required is that you arrive on Day 3 of the itinerary, where Mountain Madness services begin. If you arrive early, we can assist with extra hotel arrangements and activities. Otherwise, you can arrive at any time on Day 3. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Mera Peak Day to Day
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Day 1-2
Travel
Travel to Nepal takes several days coming from the US In order to provide you with the exact number of days needed for this excursion, we have included travel time in the itinerary. You will depart from the US on Day 1 and, by crossing the international date line, arrive in Kathmandu on Day 3, where Mountain Madness services begin. If you are travelling from somewhere other than the U.S., travel time may vary, however Mountain Madness services still begin on Day 3.
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Day 3
Arrive Kathmandu
Travel from your home port to Kathmandu. All flights departing the US cross the date line and consequently a day is lost. You arrive in Kathmandu, where a Mountain Madness guide meets you. You then check into a classic four-star hotel located in the popular Thamel district. Your hotel is conveniently located near great food, fabulous shopping, and Durbar Square which has numerous temples and markets.
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Day 4
Kathmandu
While we wrap up last minute paperwork with the Nepali Government, you will have a casual day of shopping for souvenirs in the streets of Kathmandu with fantastic photo opportunities along the way, visiting the palaces, Durbar Square, Hindu temples and shrines, and Buddhist stupas or just relaxing at roof top café along the streets of Thamel, an area in Kathmandu.
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Day 5
Fly to Lukla / Trek to Poyan
You’ll start the day early with a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,850m/9,350ft), the gateway to the Everest region. If the weather is clear, expect stunning mountain views along the way. The route first descends a bit before en route to Surke (2,300m/7,546ft), then climbs back up through rolling terrain before reaching Poyan (2,800m/9,186ft), where we’ll stop for the night.
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Day 6
Pangkongma
Today our trek from Poyan takes us off the well-traveled trade route as we head east toward Pangkongma (2,846m/9,337ft). The trail winds along the hillside, crossing a river before gradually climbing to the village. Once there, we’ll settle into a local tea house for the night.
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Day 7
Nashing Dingma
The uphill continues with a steep, winding trail that leads us up to Pangkongma La (3,174m/10,413ft), where we’ll take in the spectacular. From the pass we begin a long descent down to the banks of the Hinku Khola River for a well-earned lunch break. From there, a steady climb brings us to our campsite at Nashing Dingma (2,600m/8,530ft).
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Day 8
Chalem Kharka
This morning we take aim at Surke La (3,100m / 10,100 ft), where we’ll take a break and enjoy the views before beginning our descent. Making our down way through dense forests and vibrant rhododendrons, we eventually arrive at our campsite in Chalem Kharka, situated at an elevation of 3,596 meters (11,800 feet).
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Day 9
Chunbu Kharka
Leaving camp, we set out on a steady ascent, making our way over a rugged, rocky landscape. As we climb higher, the terrain becomes more exposed, offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. After reaching our highest point of the day, we pause to take in the stunning alpine scenery before beginning our descent. The trail winds down through the mountains, gradually leading us to our campsite at Chunbu Kharka, nestled at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), where we settle in for the night.
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Day 10
Khote
The day begins with ups and downs as we traverse around the stunning Hinku Valley, following a winding path that gradually brings us lower in elevation. As we descend to the valley floor, the landscape opens up, revealing sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. Finally, we arrive in Khote (3500m / 11,500ft), where we are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Mera Peak towering in the distance.
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Day 11
Tangnag
The day begins with a stunning walk, surrounded by towering mountains in every direction. The trail meanders gently through a mix of rocky terrain and open pastures, where yaks graze peacefully against the dramatic alpine backdrop. Tangnag is located adjacent to glacial moraine — a perfect place to enjoy afternoon, free to relax and take in the views.
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Day 12
Khare
Today we move to Khare at 4,950 meters (16,240 feet). Our route turns east, following the valley floor past stunning high-altitude peaks, including the dramatic Black Mera. Along the way, we pass glacial lakes and towering ice formations, immersing ourselves in one of the great Himalayan valleys. After a steady climb, we arrive in Khare where we’ll have lunch and spend the rest of the day resting and acclimating to the higher altitude.
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Day 13
Khare
We’ll spend an extra day in Khare getting acclimatized, sorting gear and training for the climb ahead.
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Day 14
Mera Peak Base Camp
Move to Mera Peak Base Camp. Possible short hike/climb in the afternoon to further acclimatize.
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Day 15
Mera Peak Base Camp
Acclimatization day in preparation for the climb ahead. Rest up, hydrate & get some calories onboard.
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Day 16
Mera Peak High Camp
Today, we move to Mera Peak High Camp. The ascent begins from camp eventually reaching Mera La. From the pass the route continues up the adjacent slopes to a crevassed section. Beyond this, steady snow slopes lead us to High Camp at 5,800m (19,028 ft). The camp offers incredible views of Everest, Makalu, and the Lhotse-Nuptse Wall.
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Day 17
Summit Day / Descend To High Camp Or Base Camp
Our day begins early a quick breakfast and hot drinks. Departing before dawn our climb begins gradually, with a steady ascent. Eventually darkness fades and the sun rises revealing our objective ahead. As we continue to gain elevation, the terrain steepens, bringing the summit into clear view. The final section is the most demanding, potentially requiring fixed ropes for the last push. Standing on the summit, we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas. After taking it all in, descend back to High Camp, or Base Camp if time allows.
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Day 18
Contingency Days
We’ve come a long ways — best to have a few extra contingency days.
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Day 19
Khare
Moving downhill into the thicker air we’ll retrace our steps back to Khare.
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Day 20
Khote
We continue down valley to Khote.
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Day 21
Helicopter To Kathmandu (with stop in Lukla)
If weather permits, we’ll board a helicopter and transfer back to Kathmandu for a celebration dinner.
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Day 22
Depart Kathmandu For Home
Safe travels home!
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Mera Peak Expedition
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Carrying Gear
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Large Duffel bag (100-150L)
Durable and waterproof. Examples: Patagonia Black Hole or The North Face Base Camp.
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Summit pack (40-50L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume between 2,500-3,500 cubic inches (40-50 liters) serves most people’s needs well
Examples:
Osprey Mutant 38, Black Diamond Speed 40
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Summit pack cover
waterproof cover
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (0F)
Zero-degree F (Minus eighteen-degree C) sleeping bag and stuff sack. Night-time temperatures can be as low as 0°F (-18°C) so bring a warm enough bag
Examples:
Marmot Never Summer, Feathered Friends Snow Bunting
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Climbing Gear
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Ascender (single)
One full-sized ascender with handle for fixed lines (left handed for right handed climbers, or vice-versa)
Examples:
Petzl Ascension
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30’ of perlon accessory cord (6mm)
30 feet of 6mm cord
Examples:
Sterling
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Belay device (plaquette)
Tube style
Examples:
Black Diamond ATC Guide, Petzl Reverso
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Locking carabiners (2)
Two large, pear-shaped carabiners are best
Examples:
Black Diamond Rock Lock, Petzl William, Petzl Attache
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Alpine climbing harness
Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
Examples:
Black Diamond Couloir, Petzl Altitude, Petzl Hirundos
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
Examples:
Black Diamond Half Dome, Petzl Elios
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
Examples:
Black Diamond Sabretooth, Petzl Vasak
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
Examples:
Black Diamond Raven, Petzl Glacier
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Head and Face
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Glacier glasses
100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case
Examples:
Julbo
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Hands
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Mid-weight gloves
1-2 pairs
Examples:
Black Diamond Punisher Glove
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Expedition mitts
One pair Gore-Tex or equivalent, with textured palms and taped seams. Synthetic or down filled. Warm, heavy duty for cold temperatures
Examples:
Outdoor Research Altimitt
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Expedition gloves
Insulated, water resistant shell with leather palms
Examples:
Black Diamond Guide
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Softshell gloves
One pair medium-weight for daily wear when it’s not too cold
Examples:
Black Diamond Arc, Arcteryx Zenta LT Glove
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Feet
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Plastic or hybrid mountaineering boots
Plastic or hybrid rated for winter mountaineering. If you choose a plastic boot, you must have liner boots that are in new or excellent condition!
Examples:
La Sportiva G2
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Tennis shoes or sandals
Lightweight to wear in camp after a long day of hiking
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Hiking boots
One pair medium-weight hiking/backpacking boots, waterproof, large enough to be comfortable with one thin and one thick sock
Examples:
Salomon Quest 4D
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots
Examples:
Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Thin socks (3 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Upper Body
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Expedition down parka w/ hood (Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Greenland Parka)
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is mandatory. It’s important that you jacket is 700+ fill down, baffle construction (not sewn through seams) and as a thick, insulated hood
Examples:
Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Greenland Parka
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Lower Body
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Bathing suit (optional)
lightweight and packable
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Miscellaneous
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Hand sanitizer
enough to last trip length
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Water Bottles/Water System (Trekking)
Two one-liter, wide-mouthed plastic bottles. If you use a collapsible water bottle or hydration system you are welcome to bring it along for drinking water. However, bring at least one hard plastic bottle.
Examples:
Nalgene
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Poncho
A poncho is great for lower down on the mountain when it is raining. Rather than having to wear your hard-shell jacket and overheat, just throw the poncho over yourself and your pack and you will stay dry as a bone
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Snacks (trek)
Trail snacks are important. Bring some power/energy/candy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking. You will be fed well throughout the trek, so this is just something extra
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Snacks (general)
Bring your favorite snacks and power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking and climbing
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Book Trip
Mera Peak
$6,900
22 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
21,247 ft / 6476 m
Video
Difficulty
Beginner
While the ascent can be considered easy in terms of terrain and glacier travel involved, it does require participants to be fit. Basic mountaineering skills useful but not required. A climb of Mount Baker in the Washington Cascades would be excellent preparation.
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