Itinerary
DAY 1: DEPART UK
You will depart the UK for your Mera Peak adventure! If you have booked flights with us (option available for Bucket Lister + trips only), we’ll provide all the information you’ll need to meet your guide. If you are arranging your own flights, have a safe journey!
DAY 2: ARRIVE IN KATHMANDU
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu you’ll make your way to the accommodation. If you have booked transfers through us, we’ll send you the details before your trip.
Special Information: Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today
DAY 3: TRANSFER TO RAMECHHAP
In the morning, after breakfast, there will be a thorough pre-trek briefing by your trek leader to sort out any last-minute queries. We leave the hotel at 1 pm and take the winding road to Ramechhap.
Please note:
Ongoing developmental works and necessary maintenance at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan Airport mean flights to Lukla depart from Ramechhap Airport. This step was taken by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) during the 2019 post-monsoon season and has been extended for an indefinite period. Although there are sometimes flights from Kathmandu these cannot be guaranteed, even with advanced booking.
We drive to Ramechhap during daylight hours and spend the night there. This ensures we are refreshed and can be on the first flights to Lukla in the morning, ready to start our trek.
DAY 4: FLY TO LUKLA
We rise early for a morning transfer to the airport to fly to Lukla (2880m). This 45-minute flight provides a magnificent entry to the trek. It highlights the snowline of the Himalayan range in the north, and you get to experience the rugged landing at Lukla airport which is said to be one of the most spectacular flights in the world.
Upon arrival, you will meet your guide and trekking staff. As we are already above 2500 metres in altitude, we will spend the night in Lukla to get better acclimatised. We will spend the day hiking in different areas of Lukla.
DAY 5: TREK TO CHUTANGA (3050M)
As this is our first day of trekking, we will be doing half a day’s hike today. This helps us acclimate and get a feel of the trail and the surrounding landscapes.
We start the day by hiking eastwards, crossing several hamlets and wood yards until we reach a thick forest of silver fir, birch, pines, and rhododendrons. A short hike from here brings us to Nau Lekh, also known as Kalo Himal Ridge. We will cross many small streams and villages to arrive at Chutanga, a summer pasture.
Upon arrival, we check into the lodge and have lunch. The rest of the day is free to explore the surroundings of Chutanga.
DAY 6: CHUTANGA TO KHARKITANG (3200M)
The hike today, though short, is mostly uphill. As we slowly gain altitude, the vegetation changes and we start to get better views of the Himalayas. We cross through several forested areas and a few small villages to arrive at our lodge at Kharkitang.
Upon arrival, we check into the lodge. The rest of the day is free to rest and relax or go for a short hike nearby.
DAY 7: TREK TO CHETRABUK (3800M) VIA ZATRWA-LA PASS (4600M)
We begin today’s trek on a steep, narrow trail that passes through rhododendron and bamboo forests. We continue crossing the Kalo Himal Ridge in the Nau Lekh range, which separates the Khumbu from the Hinku Valley.
A steep uphill climb brings us to a cairned notch in the ridge with a collection of Buddhist prayer flags at 4450m. This small pass is called the Zatrwa La. From here, the path traverses across a boulder slope, around a corner, and climbs again to the Zatrwa La at 4600m.
From the pass, we slowly head towards our lodge at Chetrabuk, a mostly downhill hike that takes about an hour to an hour and a half.
DAY 8: CHETRABUK TO KHOTE (3550M)
The route contours around the main Hinku Valley, then descends steeply through the different climate zones; from montane grassland, through juniper and rhododendron thickets to hemlock and silver fir forests.
We will have amazing mountain views as we continue north up the Hinku Valley. The trail gently climbs along the west bank of the Hinku River. Spectacular mountains, such as KusumKangari to the west and Mera Peak to the east, will be in view throughout the morning. In the afternoon we continue descending through the atmospheric Mojang Forest and drop into the main Hinku Valley to our camp in the small settlement of Kote (3550m).
DAY 9: KHOTE TO TANGNAG (4300 M)
We follow the rocky riverbed upstream, a reminder of the destruction caused by the glacial lake bursting, to join the main Mera trail.
Walking further through meadows dotted with dwarf junipers, we reach the village of Tangnag, where we camp (4300m). We are now in a deep valley created by the towering walls of KusumKanguru and the western peak of Mera.
DAY 10: ACCLIMATISATION DAY IN TANGNAG
We spend the day acclimatising to the altitude. There will be a morning walk to the top of a ridge south of Tangnag. We walk to approx. 5000m and have great views of Kusum Kanguru, Chamlang and the Mera La.
We return to camp for lunch, and in the afternoon there will be a gear check and compulsory abseil training. Your leader will also demonstrate how a PAC bag is used.
DAY 11: TANGNAG TO KHARE (5045M)
We follow the lateral moraine of Dig Glacier to Dig Kharka, which offers spectacular views of Charpate Himal. The trail climbs through moraines and to the snout of the HinkuNup and Shar Glaciers and then continues more steeply to our camping spot at Khare.
The camping experience at Khare is something to cherish throughout your life. It is a pleasure to view the beautiful North Face of Mera Peak from our campsite at Khare. Many of the porters will return to the more hospitable climate of Tangnag and await our return from the peak.
DAY 12: ACCLIMATISATION AND TRAINING AT KHARE
Here we use the moraine and scree slopes of the base of the Mera Glacier to familiarise ourselves with high-altitude gear, safety practices and climbing techniques.
And so we climb – towards the Mera La, our route winding its way between the crevasses on the glacier’s lower eastern flank.
After half an hour, the gradient eases and we emerge onto the wide plateau that leads up to the pass.
DAY 13: TREK TO MERA PEAK BASE CAMP (5350M)
We now take supplies up to the Mera La (5400m) and set up our camp just below the pass on the Honku side. It is a steep route, and it takes around 2 to 3 hours to reach Base Camp.
After a short rest and lunch, we start ice climbing training with our climbing guide. Inexperienced climbers will learn a lot today.
The sunset from this campsite is truly spectacular with the peaks of the Honku Himal glowing red in the setting sun.
DAY 14: CLIMB TO HIGH CAMP (5780M)
We ascend the Mera Glacier up to a rocky outcrop to establish High Camp at 5800m. Even those who are not climbing may well come up to the Mera La, to see how things are progressing.
From here 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.
This afternoon there will be a final gear check and we will prepare our clothes for tomorrow. After sunset, we retire to the warmth of our sleeping bags to rest before the summit attempt tomorrow.
Please note that camping space is extremely limited at high camp and occasionally three people will need to share a tent. A dining tent will not be erected and meals will be served in your tent.
DAY 15: SUMMIT AND BACK TO KHARE
It’s an extremely long day, as we have a very cold, early start at around 2 – 2:30 am. We will set off roped up in teams. You will 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.
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 summit we will rest at a col whilst the sherpas fix a safety rope to the bottom of the last part of the summit climb.
The last 50m to the summit is the steepest part of the climb. We will need the jammer for this last section, which is steep and makes the climb more challenging. The sherpas will fix the rope accordingly and help you up this section.
(Please note crevasses here change from year to year and routes do change slightly each year).
Once at the top, the views from the sun rising over Kanchenjunga in the east, past Makalu to the plumed Everest Himal in the centre, and Cho Oyu further west, make every painful step well worthwhile.
Descending this steep section will involve abseiling from the summit and we will use the fixed rope back to the col. From here the descent is usually quicker, although we will still be roped as care must be taken because of crevasses. We descend back down to our base camp and further down to Khare.
After a long but rewarding day, returning to a lower altitude (5000m) means that we should all sleep soundly.
DAY 16: WALK BACK TO KHOTE
Today we enjoy a beautiful walk as we retrace our steps down the valley to Khote, and our first beer (chilled, of course) after the exertions of yesterday.
DAY 17: KHOTE TO CHATRABUK
It is an uphill trek today through lush rhododendron forests on the west side of the Hinku Valley to ThuliKharka. Rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal and on our journey we get to admire beautiful hills dotted with rhododendrons.
After reaching Chatrabuk, we enjoy remarkable views of Mera North, Mera Central and South face.
DAY 18: CHATRABUK TO LUKLA
Today we spend our day trekking back to our starting point of Lukla.
DAY 19: FLY FROM LUKLA TO RAMECHHAP
We fly to Ramechhap in the morning and transfer back to our hotel in Kathmandu for the evening.
DAY 20: EXPLORING KATHMANDU
Today is a free day in Kathmandu to explore at your leisure.
DAY 21: FLY BACK HOME
This marks the end of our Nepali adventure...alternatively, you could continue your adventure with a 3-day add-on to Chitwan National Park!
Food & Accommodation
- Day 1 FlightBreakfast
Lunch Dinner - Day 2 3* Hotel – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 3 Safari Tents – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 4 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 5 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 6 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 7 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 8 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 9 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 10 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 11 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 12 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 13 CampingBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 14 CampingBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 15 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 16 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 17 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 18 Teahouses – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 19 3* Hotel – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 20 3* Hotel – Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
- Day 21 FlightBreakfast Lunch Dinner
What’s the Food Like on The Mera peak Climb?
Food on the Mera Peak climb is surprisingly varied, comforting and designed to keep you well-fuelled for long days on the trail. While you’ll be far from urban restaurants, the teahouses and lodges along the route serve up warm, hearty meals that draw on both Nepali staples and international favourites — a welcome treat after a day of trekking.
Each evening you can expect fresh options like dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), noodles, pasta, omelettes and soups, plus plenty of snacks like dumplings (momos), samosas and toasties. Carbohydrates are the focus here — they’re what your body needs most at altitude — but you’ll also find fruit, vegetables, tea and local desserts to round things out. Guides and teahouse hosts are used to catering to trekkers’ tastes, so milder or vegetarian options are usually available on request.
If you’d like the full breakdown of what to expect at each stop, how to manage food safely at altitude, and the must-try dishes along the trail, you can read our complete guide here.
How Difficult Is It?
How Difficult Is Mera Peak?
Mera Peak is a serious high-altitude climb rather than a walk-up trek, and sits one notch above most non-technical Himalayan climbs. At 6,476 m, it demands excellent endurance, comfort with snow and ice, and the ability to keep going for long days in cold, thin air — but it doesn’t require advanced technical mountaineering skills like ice climbing or rock climbing.
Most of the challenge comes from altitude and sustained exertion rather than technical difficulty. You’ll spend several days trekking through valleys, moraine and glaciers before reaching high camps, and then use crampons, ice axes and fixed ropes on steep snowy slopes during the summit push. The gradients are steep, the weather can change fast, and every step feels heavier as you gain height — especially above 5,500 m.
If you’re comparing it with other Himalayan climbs, Mera Peak is generally considered harder than Island Peak, largely because of its greater altitude and the sustained high-altitude effort required. For a deeper breakdown of how Mera Peak stacks up against Island Peak — including terrain, altitude, and preparation tips — see our full comparison here
What's Included?
What’s Included on Mera Peak
Your Mera Peak adventure is fully supported from the moment you land in Nepal to the summit push and return. The following is included in your trip:
- All transport within Nepal as outlined in the itinerary (this excludes international airport arrival & departure transfers – unless added to your booking, or if you have added Group Flights to a BL+ trips)
- Internal (return) flight from Ramechhap to Lukla
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Fully supported camping at high camp
- All meals during the trek and climbing period
- Experienced local climbing guides and Sherpa team
- UK Bucket List Company Leader on all BL+ departures
- Mera Peak climbing permit, trekking permits and Sagarmatha National Park entry fees
- Group climbing equipment (ropes, fixed lines, safety equipment)
- Tents and camping equipment at high camp
- Porters to carry main kit bags
- Pre-summit training and rope skills practice
- Support from The Bucket List Company team before and during your trip
- Access to the Vamoos app with full itinerary, packing lists and key trip info
What's Not Included?
What’s not Included on Mera Peak
There are a few additional costs to plan for:
International Flights
Flights to and from Nepal are not included in the base trip cost. These can be added on Bucket Lister Plus trips if you’d like us to arrange everything for you.
Airport Arrival & Departure transfers
These are excluded from the base cost of your trip but can be added to your booking. If you are booking Group Flights with us on a BL+ trip, then these transfers are included automatically.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory. It must also cover high-altitude trekking up to 6,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation
Visa
Visa fees (if applicable) are not included.
Personal Climbing Equipment
Crampons, harness, helmet, ice axe, ascender, boots and other personal kit (unless otherwise stated). Equipment hire is available locally.
Meals Not Listed
Any meals not specified in the itinerary.
Personal Expenses
Snacks, hot showers, WiFi, charging, drinks and souvenirs.
Tips
Tips are not included – trip-specific guidance will be provided.
UK Leaders on BL Trips
BL trips will not have a UK Bucket List Company Leader present.
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?
Because entry requirements can and do change, and because we have clients of many nationalities, we always recommend checking this with your own government’s website. Be sure to allow enough time to apply for any visas or permits required; don’t leave your checks until the day before!
What vaccinations do I need?
These change, so it is important that you check with either a travel health clinic or your doctor’s surgery. You should allow plenty of time for this process, as some vaccines need multiple doses. The TravelHealthPro website is another useful source of information – https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries
How can I avoid roaming charges but still use my phone?
Your mobile provider might have reasonably-priced roaming add-ons, so it is worth exploring these. Or you could buy an eSim; these are often much cheaper than add-ons and are easy to activate and use. See our article for more information – https://thebucketlistcompany.co.uk/unlock-seamless-connectivity-with-esims-the-ultimate-travel-companion/
Why do you fly to Lukla from Ramechhap, and not from Kathmandu?
Due to the volume of air traffic flying in and out of Tribhuvan International Airport there are far more likely to be delays and cancellations if flying from Kathmandu to Lukla. Flights from Ramechhap to Lukla tend to be more reliable.
Do I need a trekking permit?
You will – we will ask you for any necessary supporting documents/information and arrange it for you. The permit price is included in the base cost of the trip.
How do I organise my climbing permit?
Do not worry – we will ask you for any necessary supporting documents/information and arrange this for you. The permit price is included in the base cost of the trip.
Can I drink the tap water?
No; we would also recommend you use treated/bottled water for teeth brushing. You can get water in tea houses, but you must treat this before use (we like and use Water-to-Go bottles).
How do the monthly payments work?
If you choose to pay for your trip monthly your payment plan will start the month after your booking is made, and will end a minimum of 28 days prior to departure. After deposit, the outstanding balance will be divided by the number of months available and we’ll charge this amount each month to the card of your choice. If you have a preferred date of the month for payments to be taken just let us know. If at a later date you wish to add an extra experience to your trip we can modifiy your payment plan to accommodate this.
Can you cater for different diets?
When you book you will receive a link to your portal, where you can fill in your passenger information, including dietary and medical requirements. These will be shared with our guides and providers (including airlines if you have also booked flights). Please provide this information as quickly as possible, so we can make any necessary arrangements for you.
Whilst we do our utmost to ensure your needs are met, in some locations options for very specific diets may be extremely limited; we therefore suggest bringing some suitable snacks.
If you have a severe food allergy please ensure you carry your medication at all times, and that we are made aware. We will pass this information on, but a conversation with your in-country guide on arrival will help them give you the best possible guidance regarding suitability or otherwise of foods.
If you have specific concerns we always suggest contacting us to discuss before booking.
Is there phone signal or Wi-Fi on this trek?
There is Wi-Fi in nearly all the tea houses, but it can be temperamental, and you are likely to be charged to access it. Purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM (so you can use your own hot spot), or a Wi-Fi Link card (this gives access to the Everest-specific network), can improve your chances of staying connected, but there are no guarantees.
Is it possible to hire equipment?
We can arrange this for some equipment; please contact us to discuss and arrange in plenty of time before your trip. Equipment hire is charged on arrival in Nepal.
