Mode of Trekking (Camping Trek)  
22 Days Trip 
17 Days Trek, 4 days Climbing, 4 nights in Hotel.

Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal which is climbable by people without mountaineering experience. It is situated on the famous Khumbu region which is dominated by Mount Everest. Although very high, Mera is a straightforward climb and is frequently ascended by groups and individuals whose only climbing qualifications are that they are fit and have an out going sense of adventure. 

The Mera Expedition is a high altitude trek and climb and participants need to be fit and conversant with the use of an ice-axe and crampons. Instruction in the use of these will be given at our base camp near the Mera La if required. In good conditions it is possible for a fit party to reach the summit and return to base camp in one day. It is normal, however, to establish a high-camp at 5800m on the Mera Glacier, in order to shorten the summit day. This is a rewarding experience as it provides glorious views of Nepal and a vista that takes in Kanchenjunga and Makalu to the east and Everest appearing over the massive southern aspect of Nuptse and Lhotse to the north. JTo the west stand the spires of Ama Dabalm and Kang Taiga and in the distance is the mighty bastion of Cho Oyu. This is a fine panorama of many of the worlds highest peaks. 
 
The climb itself takes the north face glacier in a steady rise to the summit ridge which leads in an exposed and exciting situation, to the top. After the mountain has been climbed, we return to base camp.

ITINERARY

Day 1. Arrive in Kathmandu 
You arrive in Kathmandu and are transferred to the Shanker Hotel. A pre-trek briefing, given by Binoy, will be scheduled for the late afternoon. We will discuss the trekking and climbing program, and arrangements for the next couple of days. The evening is free but since this is our first night in Kathmandu we will go out for an evening meal at one of Kathmandus fine Nepali restaurants.  
 
Day 2. Gear Check & Half Day Sightseeing Tour 
This morning a group meeting with gear check will be held and at this time any necessary items will be hired or purchased. A group sightseeing tour has been arranged, taking in the key attractions in and around Kathmandu. If time does not permit, the tour can be taken after the expedition when there is a full day at leisure in Kathmandu. Notwithstanding, the hotel is centrally located and short walk from shops, cafes and other features of interest. 
 
Day 3. Fly to Lukla and trek to Puiyan (2,800m)  
An early start to the airport to catch the 45 minutes flight to the STOL airstrip at Lukla. It is a memorable flight, with marvelous views of the Eastern Himalaya. Our crew and porters assemble, loads are sorted and after a cup of tea, we are soon on our way down a trail below the air strip to the river at Surke Khola, which brings us, adjacent to the racing glacial waters of the Dudh Koshi. Our route takes a southerly direction along old trade routes, a trail of farm settlements growing subsistence crops such as millet, corn and buckwheat and then as we trek higher, into stands of oaks, maple and rhododendron. 
 
Day 4. Trek to Pangom (2,800m)  
We follow the main trail briefly before turning up a path that leads into the forest and traverses around many ridges to the valley of the Kari Khola. Although our camp elevations are similar for the last days, we are undulating over two major ridges, the Chutok la (2945m) and Khari la (3080m) . As we approach Pangom, set in the base of a small bowl like valley immediately below the Pangom La, we travel through forests of rhododendron, pines and oaks. This is a little known trail used only by the local families and apart from a couple of small settlements along the way we see little evidence of human activity. Pangom is a very old settlement little changed, with a new gompa and expansive views out over the valley. 
 
Day 5. Trek to Khurkee (3,720m)  
We leave Pangum after breakfast and gain the ridge of the Zattara Danda, north of the Pangum La (3140m) . From here we climb steadily with views of the jagged peaks that flank the Hinku Valley on our right and views back towards Trakshindo La, Numbur and the Dudh Koshi on your left. We are now away from habitation and we take lunch at a suitably scenic spot along the ridge. In the afternoon you continue to climb along the ridge through rhododendron and bamboo forest. At the end of the trekking day we come to the edge of the forest and camp will be set up on the grassy slopes of the shepherds summer pastures known as Khurkee. The day is not particularly difficult, and we make camp in the early afternoon, as this is the only spot with reliable water before our next camp at Cetera. 
 
Day 6. Trek  to Cetera Thuli Kharka (4,300m)  
A steep climb out of camp up grassy slopes on the crest of the ridge starts the day. There is then a rising traverse across the western slopes of the ridge to a lonely mani-wall and a spectacular view down into the Dudh Koshi valley and across towards Numbur, Teng KangPoche and Kwangde, all now familiar peaks. Another high traverse across grassy slopes and ridges brings us to our lunch spot in the meadow of Ek Rate below a notch in the Zattara Danda. After lunch we cross through the notch to the eastern side and continue to traverse along the ridge on a narrow track until you meet the trail to Lukla at Cetera (marked as Thuli Kharka on some maps) where we camp. 
 
Day 7. Trek to Kote (3,600m)  
From Cetera the trail traverses around some ridges, then begins to drop into the Hinku Dranka, first through rhododendron and then into lovely mixed fir and rhododendron forest. We will have a great view of Mera and the Upper Hinku from the crest of the last ridge, before we start the descent into the valley. Don't panic! Our route on Mera approaches from the north and not up the sheer rock walls of the impressive southern face. The descent is steep and slippery and leads to the edge of a spectacular chasm caused by a huge flood in September, 1998. The new trail stays in the forest above the river for a while and then drops down to the riverbank, where you will take lunch. In the afternoon we follow the forest close to the rocky riverbed until we reach camp on sandy banks close to large boulders left by the flood. 
 
Day 8. Trek to Tagnag (4,400m)  
From Kote we follow the riverbed for a while, before climbing onto grassy meadows when the valley widens. We are following a valley trail and the walking is easy, only made tiring by the altitude. In the late morning we will reach the yak herders' settlement of Gondishung, where we have lunch. From here there are superb views of the steep south face of Mera. In the afternoon we reach a small gompa set under a large rock. This small gompa contains three statues said to have been found on the eastern side of the Mera La. As they were being carried down the valley the party camped in a small cave under a rock. The next morning the statues had become too heavy to lift and they remain here to this day. This is a particularly auspicious place and our Sherpa crew will perform a small religious ceremony and make offerings to the Gods to ensure we journey safely into the mountains. From here it's an easy walk on moraines up the valley to the settlement of Tagnac and our camp for the next two days. Tagnac is overlooked by the stunning peak of Charpati Himal (6769m) to the north, Mera to the east, and Kusum Kanguru to the west. 
 
Day 9. Acclimatization day 
Tagnag is a location to have an acclimatization day. There are many good ridges and slopes to trek up for a few hours and spend valuable time acclimatizing our selves at these greater heights. We aim to gain at least 500 meters following a ridge behind the village as a side excursion on this day. There are views of peaks towards Kusum Kanguru and across towards Mera. 
 
Day 10-14. To Base Camp (5,000m) , Summit Bit of Mera (6,460m) and return to the Base Camp 
Acclimatization and Climbing 
We have allowed plenty of time to acclimatize and climb Mera Peak. In the area around Base Camp there will be instruction in the use of crampons, ice-axe and rope technique. Depending on the weather and the needs of the group, the leader will plan the days activities. These may include an acclimatization walk up onto the Mera La. This will enhance your acclimatization and allow you to gain familiarity with ice axe and crampons. 
 
The strategy for the climb will be decided by the leader at the time, taking into account the group's performance and acclimatization, the weather, snow conditions and other factors. Usually, we place a High Camp at around 5,800 meters (6 to 7 hours from Base Camp) . High altitude porters will carry expedition members equipment to the high camp but it will be necessary to carry down jackets, water bottles and other personal items from Base Camp to High Camp. We overnight at High Camp where we have great views of Everest, Makalu and many other spectacular peaks. The only sensible way to approach the summit is to leave very early in the morning so the summit can be reached by mid-morning at the latest. The final day will take anything between four and six hours depending on group strength, snow and weather conditions. Although not a difficult technical climb, the snow slopes are crevassed and it is necessary to proceed with care. 
 
To gain the summit, willpower and stamina are required but the incredible feeling of achievement atop this 6,431-metre giant will remain a lifetime memory. The view from the summit is utterly fantastic! Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kanchenjunga, four of the world's five highest peaks, stand out above hundreds of other, ''lesser'' giants.  
 
The descent is much easier, but we are likely to be tired after the long ascent and members must expect a long slog. We will stop at High Camp for a hot brew after which we pack up our gear and head on down. A portable altitude chamber is kept at High Camp during the climb for safety reasons. Now we explore the Hongu Valley. 
 
Day 15. Spare day 
Today is a spare day allowed for inclement weather, and or poor conditions on the mountain. People not wanting or able to continue on to the summit bid on the mountain are able to stay comfortably at our camp at Mera La with mountain views all around. 
 
Day 16-19. Return to Lukla 
The direct route back to Lukla can be comfortably achieved in 4 days. It crosses the exciting Zatrwa La pass (4,600m) before descending steeply into the Dudh Koshi valley and to Lukla. The pass gives plenty of opportunities for photographing the dramatic peaks around Mera. On arrival in Lukla we will have a big party and prepare for tomorrow's flight to Kathmandu. 
 
Day 20. Fly to Kathmandu 
We rise early in the morning to be ready for the arrival of your aircraft for the flight back to Kathmandu. We will be met at the airport and transferred to the Shankar Hotel. 
 
Day 21. Kathmandu 
In Kathmandu at leisure. 
 
Day 22. Trip concludes (Unless further plans are made)  
After breakfast we transfer you to the airport for your flight home.

The day-to-day schedule should be taken only as a general guide. A variety of factors, including adverse weather conditions, difficulty with transportation and politics can lead to enforced changes. Because of this it is not possible to guarantee that any of our holidays will run exactly according to the planned itinerary. The trip leader will make any changes, which are necessary.

NEPAL EXTENSIONS

There are a variety of interesting extensions you might choose to add on either before or after your trek. These options include:

Chitwan National Park:
It provides excellent opportunities to view the rare species such as sloth bear, bison, rhinoceros, leopard and the exclusive tiger. Early morning jungle walks and safaris on elephant back are amongst the most popular activities. The jungle lodge can be reached from Kathmandu either by air or by private vehicle.

White Water Rafting:
On the Trisuli or Seti Rivers.

Mount Everest Scenic Flight:
An hour flight departs Kathmandu early morning and provides spectacular views of Mount Everest and the surrounding mountains.

Cultural Tour:
Nepal boasts a rich cultural diversity, and it is well worth exploring. The Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal is a dream-world for many and reality for some. Once experienced they can never be forgotten, never dismissed from memory whether ones experience of them is visiting age-old Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries and royal palaces with amazing sculptures, paintings, legends and living rituals. Nepal is not only regarded as "Shangri-la" for adventurers but a scenic revelation and an educational in itself to all visitors. Once seen they become a part of you, habit-forming and intrusive. We have put our best effort to incorporate all cultural delights as well as natural beauty that Nepal has to offer, which you can chose depending on your time availability.

Please contact the Alps in Nepal office if you plan to extend your trip and let us know in advance.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Life on the Trail
The trekking day typically starts at 6:30 a.m. with the appearance of smiling Sherpas at the door of your room or tent bearing a mug of steaming tea or coffee. This is soon followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. During breakfast the porters set off. We start walking after breakfast between 7:30 and 8:30 am. Everyone is free to walk at their pace, which is comfortable for them, stopping along the way to explore villages and take photographs. Lunch will be around 11:00 am and usually takes between 1 and 2 hours. The camping place/lodge is usually reached at around 4 pm. After tea and biscuits are served, and at around 6:30 to 7:00pm the evening meal is ready.

Expert Leadership
Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. We have a very good selection of local leaders who are professionally trained and are among the most experienced in Nepal. Who better to look after you than your professional local leader, who speaks the language and knows the culture, intimately? The following people regularly lead this trek: 

PETER CHETTRI: Peter holds a very good sense of humour and adventurous spirit which has made him an asset to the company. He was born in Nepal and brought up in Sikkim. As a graduate in Arts, he has a good command over both spoken and written English. He has been leading treks with Alps in Nepal for four years. He has done a first aid training specialised in Acute Mountain Sickness. His excellent leadership has always earned a good reputation to the company. 

ASHIM SUBBA: Ashim is a travel enthusiast who has always been keen on adventure. He went to the University in Calcutta and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Commerce. Apart from being fluent in Nepali and English, he also speaks Japanese and has been involved in trekking for last two years. He has completed the first aid training including high altitude medicine. His expertness as a leader is one of the keys to our success.

Fitness Level
We recommend that you begin a fitness program as soon as you have decided you are going trekking. Hill walking, up and down the steps, cycling, running and swimming are the main exercises to help prepare you for a trek. It is advisable to see the doctor before you come for trekking. Although we carry a comprehensive medical kit on each and every trips, we recommend our clients to inform us their medical problems in advance if any and also carry their personal first aid kit covering the basics.

Why Alps in Nepal is your first choice for Adventure
Alps in Nepal, combines the best of international standards with the deep knowledge of local experts. It offers you services and an experience that surpass those offered by the large international companies; with the reliability that local outfits lack. With over 15 years of experience we have successfully organized tours and treks for several thousand patrons who can testify the unique class of service we offer. Please feel free to ask us about the selection of your trip or for any further information.