Mera Peak Summit with Ski Descent  - 16 Days

Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, the Himalayan Glacier representative will warmly welcome us and escort us to our hotel. In the evening, we meet our team for a briefing about the exciting journey ahead and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local Nepali flavors. Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Today is all about preparation. We check and organize our gear, make final arrangements, and attend a detailed orientation with our expert guides. This ensures everyone is ready for the trek and ski adventure ahead. In the evening, we stroll through Thamel to experience the lively heart of Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.

We take an early morning scenic flight to Lukla. From Lukla, we begin our trek heading gently downhill, crossing the Handi Khola on a bridge before passing through the small Sherpa village of Surke. The trail winds south through forests and mountain scenery, then rises over a small ridge known as Chutok La.  After 5–6 hours of walking, we arrive in the peaceful village of Paiya (also called Chutok). Overnight in Paiya. 

From Paiya, we start by heading down slightly to cross a small bridge over the river. Then the trail leads us up toward Kari La Pass on a mountain path that can be slippery in places. We walk through thick rhododendron and bamboo forests, enjoying views of the Dudhkoshi Valley along the way. We arrive at the peaceful Sherpa village of Panggom, where prayer flags flutter and the mountains surround us. Overnight in Panggom.

We continue our trek through forests and rolling valleys, noticing the change in terrain as we move higher. Local flora and mountain views keep us energized. By late afternoon, we reach Ningsow and enjoy a cozy night under the stars.

From Ningsow, we begin by following the trail uphill and then downhill as it winds through forests and ridges. The path rises to a viewpoint called Ramailo Danda, where we’re rewarded with spectacular views of Mera Peak and Salpa Peak. From there, we enter the Makalu Barun National Park, and follow the Pasang Lhamu Trail, crossing small streams and enjoying the rich mountain scenery as we make our way to the riverside settlement of Chhatra Khola. Overnight in Chhatra Khola.

From Chhatra Khola, we begin by heading north on the main Mera Peak trail, walking beside the Majang Khola river before the path joins the trail that runs alongside the larger Hinku Khola. We pass by Tashing Ongma, where seasonal tea shops offer refreshments, and then cross a bridge over the Sanu Khola before reaching the Sherpa settlement of Kothe. Overnight in Kothe.

As we gain altitude, the Himalayan giants surround us. Today’s hike is shorter but more demanding, giving our bodies a chance to acclimatize. We reach Thaknak and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Overnight in Thaknak.

From Thaknak, we follow the main trail heading north up the Hinku Valley. The route climbs gradually along the lateral moraine of the Dig Glacier. We pass Dig Kharka with closer views of Charpate Himal and surrounding peaks. The terrain becomes rocky as we walk across glacial moraines. Small meltwater streams flow down from the Hinku Nup and Shar Glaciers. The trail steepens slightly near the end as we approach higher altitude. Overnight in Khare. 

At Khare, we spend the day acclimatizing to the high altitude and preparing for the climb. Our guides lead a short acclimatization hike to nearby ridges to help our bodies adjust. We receive detailed pre-climb training on the glacier above Khare. The training includes walking with crampons, using ice axes, and rope techniques. We practice moving safely on snow and ice while learning basic rescue skills. Our guides also explain summit day procedures and safety measures. Overnight in Kathmandu.

We leave Khare after an early breakfast and begin our gradual ascent toward Mera High Camp.

In normal conditions, this section does not require crampons or ropes, but fresh snow can hide ice, hard-packed snow, and crevasses, especially on the upper glacier above Khare. Crampons provide traction and stability, reducing the risk of slipping on steep or exposed sections.

Our guides carefully choose the safest route and maintain a steady pace as the terrain becomes more exposed near the final section. After hours of climbing with incredible Himalayan views, we reach Mera High Camp, set on a high ridge above the glacier, where we rest and prepare for the summit push.

We start our summit day very early, usually before dawn, climbing steadily over snow and gentle glacier terrain toward the top of Mera Peak. Depending on snow and ice conditions, crampons may be used to ensure safe footing as our guides set a steady pace in the thin air. After several hours, we reach the summit and enjoy incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan giants. Following summit celebrations, we ski down carefully, with the descent fully dependent on snow conditions, visibility, and crevasse safety, before returning to High Camp or continuing down to Khare as conditions allow.

This day is kept as a buffer to manage any unexpected situations during the climb, such as unfavorable weather, heavy snowfall, or the need for additional acclimatization. It allows flexibility in case the summit push needs to be postponed for safety reasons. However, if the trip goes smoothly, this day will not be required and we can use this day to rest and recover in Khare.

We leave Khare early in the morning and board a scenic helicopter flight via Lukla. The flight allows us to avoid retracing the trekking route and provides a comfortable and time-efficient return to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing after our high-altitude adventure.

Today is free for us to relax and unwind after the expedition. We may choose to rest at the hotel, explore Thamel, or join optional sightseeing tours to visit Kathmandu’s cultural and historical landmarks. This flexible day allows us to enjoy the city at our own pace before our final departure. In the evening, we gather for a special farewell dinner, celebrating our Himalayan adventure and sharing memories from the journey.

Today marks the end of our Himalayan journey. The Himalayan Glacier team will escort us to the airport at least three hours before our flight for a smooth and stress-free departure. Though we depart today, the Himalayas will always call us back, and we know this is not the last time we will return to Nepal.