Mera Peak Climbing - 19 Days

Your Mera Peak adventure kicks off with a smooth and comfortable drive from the lively streets of Kathmandu, taking you towards the serene riverside haven of Mulkot. We'll pick you up from your hotel in Thamel in a private jeep, ensuring a personalized start to your expedition.

Leaving the vibrant bustle of Kathmandu, we’ll navigate the city's initial traffic before joining the well-maintained B.P. Koirala Highway. This modern road offers a refreshing escape, immediately treating you to picturesque views of Nepal’s central hills. As we drive, the urban sprawl gives way to rolling green landscapes, dotted with charming terraced farmlands and glimpses of traditional Nepali village life.

The journey on the B.P. Koirala Highway is a scenic delight, winding through undulating terrain. You'll pass through several tunnels and over sturdy bridges, observing the changing vistas of the countryside. This approximately 3 to 4-hour drive covers around 85-95 kilometers, offering a tranquil transition from the city's energy to the calm of nature.

Our destination, Taj Riverside Resort & Adventure, is strategically located in Mulkot, Sindhuli district, right beside the majestic Sunkoshi River. As we approach, the landscape opens up to reveal the wide river valley, with the resort nestled peacefully on its banks.

This comfortable drive to Mulkot is a deliberate choice, designed to enhance your expedition experience. By spending your first night at Taj Riverside Resort, you effectively cut down on the driving distance for the following day, bypassing the need for an extremely early start from Kathmandu to catch the unpredictable Ramechhap flights to Lukla. Instead, you'll wake up closer to your climbing plan, fresh and ready to proceed with a smoother, more predictable journey towards Phaplu, putting you directly on track for your Mera Peak ascent without unnecessary travel hassles

Building on the comfort of your first night, day 03 of your Mera Peak expedition promises another engaging drive, taking you deeper into Nepal's scenic heartland towards Phaplu.

After a refreshing night at Taj Riverside Resort & Adventure in Mulkot, you'll embark on a journey that further transitions you from the more accessible plains into the mountainous terrain of the Solukhumbu region. From Mulkot, we will continue on the B.P. Koirala Highway before turning onto the Khurkot-Ghurmi Madhya Pahadi Highway, which eventually becomes the Pushpalal Highway/Siddhicharan Highway. This section of the road is known for its winding nature, carving its way through rolling hills and valleys.

As we progress, you'll notice the landscape becoming increasingly rugged. The views will shift from the wider river plains to more enclosed valleys, with hillsides clad in dense forests and interspersed with small, traditional villages. You'll witness daily life in rural Nepal unfolding outside your window, with terraced fields clinging to slopes and local markets bustling in small towns along the route.

While the exact route may vary slightly based on current road conditions, the journey involves a significant ascent as we gain altitude towards Phaplu. Some sections of the road may be paved, while others might be graveled or unpaved, particularly as you delve deeper into the less developed mountain areas. The drive, lasting approximately 5 to 6 hours, offers continuous visual engagement with the changing topography and increasing sense of remoteness.

Finally, you'll arrive in Phaplu (2,413 m), a significant administrative and transit hub in the lower Solukhumbu region. Phaplu is home to a domestic airport, making it a crucial gateway for those venturing into the Everest region without flying directly into Lukla. Here, you'll check into a comfortable tea house lodge, ready to immerse yourself in the authentic mountain atmosphere and prepare for the next stage of your exciting Mera Peak climbing journey

Continuing your remarkable journey deeper into the Solukhumbu, Day 04 brings a thrilling transition from the well-established hub of Phaplu to the more remote trekking start point of Pangom, via Khari Khola. This segment of your drive truly immerses you in the authentic, rugged terrain of the lower Everest region.

Leaving behind Phaplu, your private 4x4 jeep will navigate roads that become increasingly less conventional. While sections might be graveled, expect a significant portion to be an exhilarating off-road experience. The vehicle will traverse winding mountain tracks, sometimes narrow, sometimes rocky, demanding skilled driving and offering a raw, visceral connection with the landscape.

You'll descend towards the Dudh Koshi River valley, passing through scattered hamlets and patches of dense sub-tropical and temperate forests. The air grows crisper, and the sounds of distant rivers and local life replace the hum of larger towns. A key point on this drive is Khari Khola, a notable village that serves as a common waypoint for trekkers in this region. This is where many traditional walking routes from the lower Solu-Khumbu began.

From Khari Khola, the road becomes even more indicative of the wilder, less-traveled paths ahead. The jeep will climb steadily, often through switchbacks, offering increasingly grand vistas of the surrounding valleys and distant hills. You'll gain significant altitude on this leg, as Pangom sits at a higher elevation.

This drive is a vital part of your acclimatization, subtly preparing your body for the higher altitudes to come. It's an adventurous ride that showcases the resilience of both the local infrastructure and the communities living amidst these challenging yet beautiful mountains. Upon arrival in Pangom, a quaint village known for its traditional Sherpa culture, you'll settle into a local tea house lodge, marking the true commencement of your trekking adventure and the gateway to the remote Hinku Valley

Following a truly immersive drive, Day 05 marks the beginning of your genuine trekking experience as you embark on the path from Pangom to the aptly named Ramailo Danda, or "Joyful Hill." This is where the remote beauty of the lower Khumbu begins to truly unfold.

After a hearty breakfast at your tea house in Pangom, you'll start your ascent. The trail immediately takes you upwards, often quite steeply, as you begin to gain significant altitude. The initial sections lead you through dense and vibrant rhododendron and bamboo forests, particularly stunning if you are trekking in the spring when these flowers are in bloom. The sounds of the forest, filled with birdsong and the rustle of leaves, will be your constant companion.

A key feature of this trek is crossing the Pangom La Pass (3,176 m), a prominent point that offers your first taste of expansive mountain views. From here, the trail turns north, meandering along a steady path that provides glimpses into the hidden valleys below. You'll traverse varied terrain, including uphill climbs and occasional downhill sections, all contributing to your gradual acclimatization.

Along the way, you'll cross small streams like the Peseng Kharka Khola and pass through small settlements, including Ningsow village. These moments offer a peek into the simple, traditional lifestyle of the local Sherpa communities, far removed from the hustle of modern life. The absence of heavy tourist traffic on this route allows for a more serene and authentic trekking experience.

The final push to Ramailo Danda (3,276 m) can be a rewarding climb, but your efforts are amply compensated by the views. As its name suggests, Ramailo Danda truly lives up to its "joyful" moniker, offering incredibly beautiful and sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks, including distant views of the majestic Numbur Himal, Kongde, and Manju Peak. This is often where trekkers catch their very first, exciting glimpse of Mera Peak itself, standing proudly in the distance, a preview of the grand objective ahead. You'll spend the night in a basic but welcoming tea house lodge, allowing you to rest and soak in the breathtaking evening panorama.

Day 06 of your Mera Peak expedition takes you further into the serene wilderness, trekking from the elevated vistas of Ramailo Danda to the more secluded Chhatra Khola. This day is characterized by a significant descent and a deep immersion into the natural beauty of the lower Hinku Valley.

Setting off from Ramailo Danda, you'll begin a substantial downhill trek. The trail will lead you through a landscape dominated by dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak. In spring, these forests burst into a riot of color, creating a truly enchanting environment. The path can be rugged and sometimes uneven, with roots and stones underfoot, requiring careful footing.

As you descend, the air will become noticeably warmer and more humid. You'll pass by numerous small streams and rivulets, their gentle murmur adding to the tranquility of the surroundings. This section of the trek is particularly remote, with very few villages or permanent human settlements. It’s a chance to truly disconnect and appreciate the pristine nature of the Himalayas.

This part of the route also skirts the periphery of the Makalu Barun National Park, a protected area renowned for its biodiversity. While deep forest trekking, keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and, if you're incredibly lucky, you might spot rare wildlife such as the elusive red panda or Himalayan black bear. The trail, sometimes referred to as a segment of the "Pasang Lhamu trail," offers continuous views of the lush, untamed valleys.

Your journey will eventually bring you to Chhatra Khola (2,800 m), a remote and often basic teahouse or camp location situated beside a stream. Its name, "Chhatra Khola," literally means "umbrella stream," reflecting the dense canopy that often covers this area. Here, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest, you'll settle in for the night, having embraced another full day of trekking and further preparing your body for the higher altitudes that lie ahead.

Day 07 marks a significant shift in your Mera Peak journey as you trek from the deep forests of Chhatra Khola to the charming riverside settlement of Kothe. This day sees you officially entering the renowned Hinku Valley, known for its pristine wilderness and dramatic mountain scenery.

Starting from Chhatra Khola, you'll initially continue along the path beside the Majang Khola. The trail, still largely through dense, captivating forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and pine, is less about significant altitude gain and more about covering distance through varied terrain. You'll continue to experience the tranquil solitude of this less-trodden route, often accompanied only by the sounds of the forest and distant streams.

As you progress, the trail gradually begins to follow the course of the Hinku Khola (River). This is a pivotal moment, as you are now truly entering the heart of the Hinku Valley, which flows directly from the glaciers and peaks of the Mera range. The valley starts to open up in places, offering tantalizing glimpses of the higher peaks that will soon dominate your views.

You might pass by seasonal tea shops or small clearings, indicating the occasional presence of yak herders, though permanent settlements remain sparse. The path is often winding, hugging the contours of the valley, and can involve some undulating sections, but the overall feeling is one of moving steadily upstream into a wilder, more remote landscape. The vegetation remains lush, but you'll sense the gradual transition towards a more alpine environment as you gain elevation.

Finally, after approximately 6 to 7 hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Kothe (3,691 m). Nestled on the banks of the Hinku Khola, Kothe is a slightly larger settlement with more established tea houses, serving as a crucial stop for all trekkers heading towards Mera Peak. It's often where the Makalu Barun National Park check post is located, confirming your entry into this spectacular protected area. From Kothe, you can already start to feel the proximity of the towering peaks, and on clear days, you may even catch your first clear, imposing view of Mera Peak itself to the north, a truly inspiring sight that sets the stage for the days to come

Day 08 of your Mera Peak expedition offers a shorter but highly rewarding trek from Kothe to Thaknak, marking your deeper immersion into the high-alpine environment of the upper Hinku Valley. This day is crucial for both acclimatization and soaking in increasingly dramatic mountain vistas.

Departing from Kothe, the trail primarily follows the western bank of the Hinku Khola. The path is relatively gentle compared to previous days, involving a gradual ascent as you move upstream. You'll continue to trek through thinning forests, where the trees become more stunted and give way to open, expansive landscapes.

As you walk, the immense scale of the valley becomes more apparent. You'll pass through several open spaces that are often used as seasonal yak pastures (kharkas). These areas are characterized by vast meadows and small stone shelters, offering a glimpse into the traditional high-altitude grazing practices. The air here is noticeably cooler and crisper, and the feeling of wilderness intensifies.

A significant highlight of this segment is passing Lungsumgba Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery believed to be around 200 years old. This serene spiritual site, often with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, provides a moment of reflection amidst the grandeur of the mountains. You might also spot ancient rock carvings or "Mani stones" with Buddhist inscriptions, adding to the cultural richness of the journey.

Throughout this 3 to 4-hour trek, the views grow increasingly spectacular. Towering peaks, still snow-capped even in the warmer months, begin to loom larger in the distance. The most striking sight will be the magnificent Mera Peak itself, whose formidable face becomes more prominent and inspiring as you approach. You'll see parts of the massive glaciers that feed the Hinku River, a testament to the raw power of the Himalayas.

Upon arrival at Thangnag (4,358 m), you'll find a small cluster of teahouses nestled against a backdrop of impressive cliffs and glaciated slopes. This quiet settlement serves as another vital acclimatization stop, allowing your body to further adjust to the increasing altitude. From Thaknak, you're perfectly positioned to continue your ascent towards the higher camps, with the grand objective of Mera Peak now directly in your sights

After breakfast at your teahouse in Thangnag, the primary activity for the day will be a rewarding acclimatization hike to a nearby viewpoint, often referred to as Thangnag Ri - it is a prominent ridge above the settlement. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy is a cornerstone of safe mountaineering.

The hike itself will be a steady ascent from Thangnag, typically taking a few hours round trip. The trail winds upwards on rocky terrain, with sparse vegetation, offering increasingly expansive views with every step. You'll move slowly and deliberately, focusing on your breathing and listening to your body's signals, as your guide leads the way.

As you gain elevation on Thangnag Ri, the panorama that unfolds is truly breathtaking. You'll gain even better perspectives of the colossal Mera Peak and its surrounding glaciers, which will appear much closer and more imposing. The view encompasses the vastness of the Hinku Valley, stretching out below you, and the dramatic, ice-clad peaks that encircle it. You'll clearly see the rugged landscape that defines this remote part of the Himalayas, with moraines, rock formations, and the pristine wilderness stretching in all directions.

This acclimatization hike serves multiple purposes: it helps your body produce more red blood cells to cope with the thinner air, offers a chance to stretch your legs without overexertion, and provides unparalleled photo opportunities. Your guide will monitor your well-being and offer insights into the surrounding geography and the upcoming climbing route.

Today is a pivotal day on your Mera Peak expedition, as you trek from Thaknak to Khare. This relatively short yet significant hike takes you to the final inhabited settlement before the higher camps, placing you directly at the doorstep of the climbing phase.

Leaving Thangnag  after a restorative night and morning, the trail immediately begins a steady, uphill climb. While not overly steep, the increasing altitude will make itself felt, emphasizing the importance of your previous acclimatization efforts. The landscape transforms dramatically here, shedding the last vestiges of dense vegetation and transitioning into a rugged, high-alpine environment dominated by moraines, rocks, and the glistening expanse of glaciers.

You'll traverse what feels like a moonscape, walking across the lateral moraines of the Dig Glacier. The path can be rocky and uneven, requiring careful foot placement. As you progress, you'll encounter the confluence of the mighty Hinku Nup and Shar Glaciers, vast rivers of ice flowing down from the surrounding peaks. The scale of the glacial landscape is truly awe-inspiring, a stark reminder of the powerful geological forces at play in the Himalayas.

Throughout this 3 to 4-hour trek, the views of Mera Peak itself become increasingly dominant and imposing. You'll gain new perspectives on its various ridges and faces, getting a clearer sense of the climb ahead. The air is thin and crisp, and the silence of the high mountains is profound, broken only by the crunch of your boots on the trail or the occasional distant rumble of ice.

Finally, you'll arrive at Khare (5,045 m). This small cluster of basic teahouses and tent sites is strategically positioned at the base of the Mera Glacier, making it the effective base camp for Mera Peak climbs. Its unique location offers direct views of the lower section of the climbing route. Here, you'll settle into your teahouse or possibly a tented camp setup, ready for your crucial acclimatization and pre-climb training day tomorrow, which will fully prepare you for the summit push

Today, Day 11, is a vital and multifaceted day dedicated to rest, preparation, and crucial training at Khare. While it's designated as a "rest day," it's far from idle, being strategically planned to maximize your safety and success on the summit push.

The primary focus of the day is thorough acclimatization. Your body will continue to adjust to the significant altitude of Khare. You'll have time to relax, hydrate, and conserve energy, allowing your physiology to adapt further to the reduced oxygen levels. Many trekkers might take a short, gentle walk around Khare itself to keep the blood flowing without overexertion.

Following a nourishing breakfast, your experienced climbing Sherpa guide will conduct a comprehensive pre-climb briefing. This session is crucial for understanding the specifics of the Mera Peak ascent. Your guide will detail the summit day plan, including the expected timings, the route from High Camp to the summit, and the descent strategy. They will discuss potential challenges, weather considerations, and safety protocols, giving you a clear picture of what to expect. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to ask any last-minute questions and voice any concerns.

Immediately following the briefing, you'll engage in essential pre-climb training. This hands-on session is typically conducted on the lower slopes of the Mera Glacier, easily accessible from Khare. Here, your guide will instruct and review the proper use of your mountaineering equipment, including:

• Crampons: How to properly attach them to your boots and walk efficiently on snow and ice.
• Ice Axe: Techniques for self-arrest (stopping a slide), balance, and general use on the glacier.
• Harness: How to correctly wear and adjust your climbing harness.
• Jumar (Ascender): Instructions on how to use this device for ascending fixed ropes, which will be crucial on the final summit section.
• Figure-8/Descender: Basic instruction on how to use this for controlled descents on fixed ropes.

This practical training ensures everyone in the team is comfortable and proficient with the necessary skills, boosting confidence for the technical sections ahead.

Finally, a meticulous climbing gear check will be conducted. Your guide will inspect everyone's personal climbing equipment (boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, jumar, helmet, etc.) to ensure it is in good working order and correctly fitted. This helps identify any issues before you head to higher camps.

By the end of this comprehensive day, you'll feel well-prepared, both physically and mentally, for the challenging yet exhilarating climb that lies just ahead. Rest well, as tomorrow brings the move to Mera High Camp and the eve of your summit attempt!

Day 12 marks a significant step towards your ultimate goal as you trek from Khare to Mera High Camp (5,780 m). This is a critical day, placing you directly beneath the summit and into the truly high-alpine environment where you'll spend the night before your summit attempt.

Setting out from Khare, you'll immediately begin your ascent onto the Mera Glacier. This is where your pre-climb training from the previous day becomes essential. You'll don your crampons, and your guide will likely fix a rope in some sections, or you'll move roped together, depending on the conditions, to ensure safety on the glacial ice. The initial part of the trek involves navigating a combination of rocky moraine and snow-covered ice, which can be challenging underfoot.

The path is a continuous, though gradual, uphill climb across the vast expanse of the glacier. You'll be walking on snow and ice for the majority of the way, which, while physically demanding at this altitude, is undeniably exhilarating. The landscape is entirely dominated by the raw beauty of ice and rock, with the immense scale of the surrounding peaks becoming ever more apparent. The air is exceptionally crisp, and the sun reflecting off the snow can be intense, making good sun protection vital.

As you steadily gain altitude over approximately 5 to 6 hours, the panoramic views that unfold are increasingly dramatic. You'll be walking amidst a sea of towering peaks, feeling truly immersed in the heart of the Himalayas. The objective is to reach Mera High Camp, strategically perched on a rocky outcrop just below the main summit ridge.

Mera High Camp is a fully tented camp, a stark and exposed but incredibly vital staging point for the summit push. Here, your team will have set up sturdy tents, providing shelter from the biting cold and strong winds that are common at this elevation. Despite the austere conditions, the views from High Camp are utterly breathtaking, particularly at sunset, as the last light illuminates the colossal peaks around you, including a clear, commanding view of Mount Everest's majestic summit.

Tonight will be cold, but filled with anticipation. You'll have an early dinner and prepare your gear for the very early morning summit attempt. Resting at High Camp is crucial, as you conserve energy for what promises to be the most challenging yet rewarding day of your Mera Peak expedition.

Today, Day 13, is the culmination of your entire Mera Peak expedition – Summit Day! This will be the longest and most challenging day of your journey, but also the most incredibly rewarding, as you aim for the pinnacle of Mera Peak and then descend back to Khare.

Your summit push begins remarkably early, typically between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM, under the blanket of a star-filled sky. After a quick, light breakfast and hot drinks to warm you, you'll don all your layers, headlamps illuminating the path, and begin your ascent from Mera High Camp.

The climb starts immediately on the snow and ice of the glacier. Moving slowly and steadily, often roped together for safety, you'll utilize your crampons and ice axe, putting all your training into practice. The initial hours of the ascent are characterized by a gradual but persistent climb up the vast, open snow slopes. The thin, cold air at this altitude demands a controlled pace, focusing on deep, consistent breathing.

As the pre-dawn darkness slowly gives way to the first hints of sunrise, the magic truly begins. The sky will transform into a kaleidoscope of colors, painting the world's highest peaks in fiery hues of orange, red, and gold. This spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas, viewed from such an extreme altitude, is an experience that transcends words.

The final section to the summit is generally steeper and can involve navigating a short, exposed ridge. Here, fixed ropes are typically in place, installed by your Sherpa team or other expeditions, which you'll ascend using your jumar (ascender) for security and assistance. This is where your strength and mental fortitude are truly tested, but the thought of the panoramic views awaiting you at the top will fuel your every step.

Reaching the summit of Mera Peak (6,470 m) is an unparalleled triumph. From this incredible vantage point, you'll be greeted by one of the most breathtaking 360 degree panoramas on Earth. Directly before you, stretching across the horizon, stand five of the world's 8,000-meter giants: the majestic Mount Everest, the formidable Lhotse, the striking pyramid of Makalu, the vast bulk of Cho Oyu, and the distant grandeur of Kanchenjunga. Beyond these, a countless sea of other snow-capped peaks fills the horizon. Take your time to soak it all in, celebrate your achievement, and capture these indelible moments.

After a triumphant but brief stay on the summit, you'll begin the long descent back down. While downhill, it requires immense focus and energy, navigating the snow and ice. You'll retrace your steps to Mera High Camp, where a short rest and some refreshments will be welcome. From High Camp, you'll continue your descent, carefully navigating the glacial terrain, all the way back to Khare.

This entire day can span anywhere from 10 to 12 hours, a testament to your endurance and determination. Upon reaching Khare, you'll be exhausted but filled with an incredible sense of accomplishment, having stood at the pinnacle of one of Nepal's most iconic peaks. Rest will be well-deserved tonight.

Today, Day 14, is a crucial and thoughtfully included Contingency Day in your Mera Peak expedition. Planned to be spent at Khare, this buffer day is a vital component of any high-altitude climbing itinerary, ensuring maximum safety and flexibility for your team.

The primary purpose of this day is to account for unforeseen circumstances that might have impacted your summit attempt. This could include:

• Adverse Weather Conditions: The Himalayas are known for their unpredictable weather. If strong winds, heavy snowfall, or whiteout conditions prevented a safe summit push on the designated summit day (Day 13), this contingency day allows for a second attempt, provided the weather clears.
• Slower Pace: Sometimes, due to individual acclimatization needs or the overall pace of the group, the ascent to High Camp or the summit itself might take longer than anticipated. This day provides the necessary buffer to maintain a safe and comfortable pace without rushing.
• Health or Logistics Issues: Minor health concerns, equipment adjustments, or other logistical delays can arise on any expedition. This extra day allows for flexibility without compromising the overall schedule or safety.

What happens on a Contingency Day?

• If Used for Summiting: If Day 13's summit attempt was postponed, then today becomes your new Summit Day. You would repeat the early morning push from High Camp, aiming to reach the summit of Mera Peak, followed by the long descent back to Khare, as described for Day 13. This scenario ensures you still have the best possible chance to achieve your goal.
• If Not Used for Summiting: If you successfully summited Mera Peak on Day 13 and the expedition is on schedule, today is a well-deserved rest and recuperation day at Khare. This provides an invaluable opportunity for your body to recover from the immense physical exertion of the summit climb and the exposure to high altitude. You can sleep in, enjoy leisurely meals, rehydrate thoroughly, and simply relax amidst the stunning mountain scenery. Some might opt for a short, gentle walk around Khare to keep muscles from stiffening, or simply enjoy the majestic views of Mera Peak that still dominate the landscape. This rest ensures you are fresh and energized for the trek back down the valley.

This Contingency Day underscores our commitment to a responsible and safe climbing experience, prioritizing your well-being and increasing your chances of a successful and memorable Mera Peak summit.

Day 15 marks the start of your journey back down the Hinku Valley, as you trek from the high-altitude hub of Khare to the welcoming settlement of Kothe. This day is primarily a descent, offering a change in pace and a return to more hospitable altitudes.

Setting off from Khare, you'll begin retracing your steps back down the same path you ascended days prior. The trek involves a steady downhill walk across the rocky moraines and snow patches of the lower Mera Glacier. While descending, the physical exertion is different from ascending, often putting more strain on the knees, but the ease of breathing as you drop in altitude is a welcome relief.

As you trek, the stark, barren landscape around Khare gradually softens. The overwhelming presence of snow and ice begins to recede, giving way to the thinning forests that characterize the middle sections of the Hinku Valley. You'll pass by the confluence of the Hinku Nup and Shar Glaciers again, now with a new perspective, looking down on the vast glacial systems.

The views remain spectacular, but instead of looking up at the towering peaks, you'll now be looking out across the valley, gaining new appreciation for its immense scale. The familiar landmarks, like the ancient Lungsumgba Gompa, will reappear, a sign that you are moving back into more verdant territory.

After approximately 4 to 5 hours of trekking, you'll arrive back at Kothe. This return to Kothe marks a comforting transition; you're back at a lower altitude with more established tea houses and a noticeable increase in oxygen. It's a place to relax, reflect on your summit achievement, and enjoy the relative warmth compared to the higher camps.

Setting out from Kothe, your trek begins with a steady and often steep ascent. Unlike the gradual descent you've been on, today is primarily an uphill climb, as you aim to gain significant altitude to position yourself for the pass crossing tomorrow. The trail winds its way through dense rhododendron and pine forests, which can be particularly beautiful and vibrant depending on the season. The air gradually cools as you climb higher, offering a refreshing contrast to the lower valley.

A notable point along this route is Tashing Ongma, a seasonal yak pasture and a small collection of basic tea houses. This spot offers a good break point and a glimpse into the traditional herding life in the Himalayas. From here, the path continues its relentless climb upwards, leaving the deeper forest behind and moving into more open alpine meadows.

As you gain altitude, the trees begin to thin out, and the views open up dramatically. You'll start to get expansive panoramas of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges, with peaks that were previously hidden now coming into view. The trail can be rocky and exposed in places, highlighting the rugged nature of this high-altitude landscape.

After approximately 6 to 7 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Thuli Kharka (4,300 m). This is a high-altitude grazing ground with a collection of basic lodges or tented camps, strategically located just below the challenging Zatrwa La Pass. The setting is spectacular, with vast open spaces and incredible views of the distant peaks, often including Kusum Kanguru and the surrounding ridges. Here, you'll settle in for the night, preparing for the final push over the pass that will lead you back towards Lukla

Setting out from Thuli Kharka, your morning begins with an immediate and strenuous climb. The trail ascends steeply on rocky and sometimes snowy terrain as you make your way towards the formidable Zatrwa La Pass (4,610 m). This high pass is the primary challenge of the day, demanding effort and focus, especially in the thin morning air.

Upon reaching the summit of Zatrwa La, you'll be rewarded with truly spectacular panoramic views. To the north, you'll gain one last, magnificent perspective of the peaks you've just conquered and explored, including the southern face of Mera Peak itself, along with Kusum Kanguru and other surrounding giants. To the south, the landscape unfolds dramatically, revealing the rolling hills and valleys that lead down towards Lukla and the lower Solukhumbu. Often, the pass is adorned with prayer flags, fluttering in the wind, signifying safe passage and blessings.

From the pass, the trek transforms into a long and often steep descent. The trail plunges down rapidly, taking you through varying landscapes. You'll move from exposed rocky slopes into dense rhododendron and pine forests, feeling the air thicken and warm with every meter of altitude lost. This downhill section can be hard on the knees, so careful footing and trekking poles are invaluable.

You'll pass by the small settlement of Chutanga, often a camping spot for trekkers beginning from Lukla. As you continue your descent, the signs of human habitation become more frequent, with more established trails, stone walls, and the sounds of distant villages indicating your approach to Lukla.

After approximately 6 to 7 hours of trekking, often feeling like a very long day after the pass crossing, you'll finally arrive in Lukla (2,860 m). The sight of the airport, the shops, and the bustling atmosphere will be a welcome sight, signaling the successful completion of your epic Mera Peak trek. Tonight, you'll check into a comfortable lodge, allowing you to relax, enjoy a hot shower, and celebrate your incredible achievement with your team, knowing that you've journeyed through one of the most stunning and remote parts of the Himalayas.

While not compulsory, it's customary to celebrate the last day with your Mera Peak expedition crew.

Your morning begins early in Lukla. Flights from Lukla, especially to Kathmandu (or Ramechhap, if weather dictates), are notoriously scheduled for the early morning hours to take advantage of the calmer winds and clearer skies before the clouds typically roll in later in the day. After a final breakfast at your lodge, you'll transfer to the Tenzing-Hillary Airport, a truly unique airstrip perched on a hillside.

The pre-flight atmosphere at Lukla Airport is often a mix of anticipation and controlled chaos, as trekkers and climbers from various expeditions prepare for departure. Soon, you'll board a small twin-otter aircraft, designed for mountain landings. The take-off from Lukla is an experience in itself – a short, exhilarating dash down a sloping runway towards the edge of a cliff, quickly lifting into the air.

Once airborne, the approximately 30-35 minute flight is nothing short of spectacular. You'll gain a breathtaking aerial perspective of the very mountains and valleys you've just spent weeks traversing on foot. Gaze out the window as the snow-capped giants of the Everest region gradually shrink in the distance, replaced by the rolling green hills and terraced landscapes of central Nepal. You might spot familiar rivers carving their way through gorges, and the scale of your trekking journey truly sinks in from this elevated vantage point.

As your aircraft descends, the urban sprawl of Kathmandu begins to appear, signaling your return to a different kind of vibrancy. Upon landing in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred back to your hotel. Here, you can finally unwind completely, reflecting on the incredible journey you've completed and the indelible memories forged high in the heart of the Himalayas.

In the evening, you are invited to a farewell dinner celebrating your trip in Nepal.

Depending upon your exit plans, with the most probable being your return flight back home, your guide or a representative will accompany you to the Tribhuvan International Airport.