Overview
Mera and Island Peaks Climbing is a trekking cum climbing peaks package in which you get to climb two peaks, the Mera Peak and the Island Peak both of which are in the Everest Region while trekking to them. It is a two climb one trek package as the saying goes. Both of these peaks are trek climbing peaks and can be done by all who are trekker or in a proper physical condition.
Mera peak happens to be the higher of the two peaks that go as the trekker’s peak to climb on a trek. Though it is higher than the other technically, it is an easier peak to climb. Another strange thing about them are. They happen to be in the same region but they are cut off by a high range of mountains and getting from one to the other, one must cross the Amphulapcha Pass at 5885 meters to ascend the next. The other called island peak needs some technical guidance to be climbed, which is given before one climb. Mera Peak gives a view of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse and Nuptse from the top whereas Island Peak Made famous for seeming to be on an island of snow got its name from the British Expedition Force which when on to climb Everest, else it is locally known as Imja Tse. It was used as their training grounds for the ascent to the pinnacle of Earth. Thus getting to climb one peak in a trek with the tantalizing views of snow studded mountains is one thing, but climbing another is something to ask for.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla (40 min flight) and Trek to Chutok (2800m) [3 hr hike]
Day 4: Chutok to Zatrabok (4600m) via Zatrawala Pass (4704m) [6 hr hike]
Day 5: Zatrabok to Kothe (3600m) [5 hr hike]
Day 6: Kothe to Thangnang (4356m) [5 hr hike]
Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Thangnang
Day 8: Thangnang to Khare (5045m) [4 hr hike]
Day 9: Acclimatization at Khare
Day 10: Khare to Mera Base Camp (5300m) Camp via Mera La (5415m) [5 hr hike]
Day 11: Mera Base Camp to High Camp (5800m) [5 hr hike]
Day 12 Ascend Mera Peak (6461m) and Descend to Kongma Dingma (4850m) [6 – 7 hr hike]
Day 13 Kongma Dingma to Seto Pokhari (5000m) [4 – 5 hr hike]
Day 14: Seto Pokhara to Amphu Laptsa High Camp (5400m) [4 – 5 hr hike]
Day 15: Amphu Laptsa High Camp to Imja Valley via Amphu Laptsa La (5845m) [8 – 9 hr hike]
Day 16: Imja Valley to Island Peak High Camp (5600m) [4 – 5 hr hike]
Day 17: Island Peak High Camp to Island Peak (6189m) to Chhukung Village [8 – 9 hr hike]
Day 18: Contingency Day
Day 19: Chhukung Village to Namche Bazaar (3440m) [7 hr hike]
Day 20: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2800m) [7 hr hike]
Day 21: Lukla to Kathmandu [40 min flight]
Day 22: Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Day 23: Transfer to the Airport for your onward destination
Highlights
Mera and Island Peaks Climbing trek would give one much more than the climax of summiting the peaks of Mera and Island from where one gets stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains with snow on them. It gives you the virtues of having made it to the top, in grueling daily hikes to them, which is another part of the trek. The scenes of what one sees, changes on daily basis for hiking in the Everest region have its own mandate for which is sculptured into the terrain. There are trails made for trekking by the movement of people over the passage of time. The Sherpa People that have made this region their home, has integrated it into the landscape so unnoticeably with the Mani Walls with their prayer inscription, the chortens, the prayer flags and the monasteries all seem to be a part of Nature. The flora and fauna, speaks volumes all by itself. The other thing about the treks in the region like all other for example, the most famous Everest Base Camp Trek or the Helicopter Base Camp Trek is the excitement of doing something in the natural environment not yet spoilt by modernism, yet modern in its own way. Then there is the animal life so special from this region like the yaks who seem to be content grazing in the pastures. One thing especially, you don’t drive in for the hike, but you fly in and it is this flight which gives you your first taste of what the High Himalayan Mountains are all about and the lush green terrain which you fly over with the valleys, villages and river flowing down from the north. So much so that, you would be looking to do others, in the Everest Region. This trek to Mera and Island Peaks Climbing, might not make you different but will be rejuvenating and spiritually uplifting when you have accomplished it.
Who is this trek meant for?
Yes, this trek is meant for all those who love trekking and climbing while doing so. With a bit of mountaineering skills and a love for the outdoors and being physically sound, you are then the right guy. Training is given on the way for the little tricky part of the climb, especially on Island peak. Mera Peak is quite a straight forward to climb.
Itinerary
Today, you will arrive at Kathmandu International Airport. There will be a representative from the company to welcome you. He will then take you to your three star lodging. If you have any day time left, you can use it as you please. You stay the night at the hotel.
Today, you will be taken on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. All four places are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will first be taken to Kathmandu Durbar Square to see the palaces and the temples there. Then you will go to Pashupatinath Temple which was built in the fifth century for Lord Shiva. After lunch, it will be to Swayambhunath Temple which has the story of the creation of Kathmandu in it. Last of all, it will be Boudhanath Stupa, the largest in the world which is said to have the single hair of Lord Buddha.
In the Evening, at your hotel, there will be a discussion and question and answer session about your forth coming trek and climb.
Today, we take a forty minute flight to Lukla getting nice views of the High Himalayan Mountains and the lovely green terrain below. Having breakfast at Lukla, we start the hike to our first destination at Chutok at 2800m for about three hours. We stay the night at a Lodge.
From Chutok, we head to Zatrabok at the height of 4600 metres via the Zatrawala Pass of 4704 metre. We make a slow ascend all the way to Zatrawala pass getting good views of Numbur Himal, Kongdi Ri and Karyolang Peaks on the way. Once we reach over Zatrawala, we make a slow descend to Zatrabok where we stay the night at a Lodge.
Today, we continue with the downward hike to Kothe in five hours passing through Juniper and Rhododendron woods on route. When we get to Kothe, we stay the night at a guest house.
We head to our next destination on a gradual ascend to Thangnang getting nice views of the Hinku valley in it and the Shabal Tsho Lake. We stop at Thangnang and stay the night at a lodge.
Today we get to acclimatize at Thangnang before we venture any further with strolls around the area taking in the views of the surrounding sceneries. We stay the night at a lodge.
From Thangnang, we hike to Khare at 5045m in a four hour hike with a slow ascend along the side of the glacier. Once we reach Khare, we stay the night at a guest house.
Again, we must acclimatize at Khare before going any higher. So we just take walks around in the area taking in the lovely view, we are in. We stay the night at the guest house.
Today, we should get to Mera Base Camp (5300m) in a five hour hike with a slow ascend to Mera La at 5415 metres and after sometime walking we reach the Base Camp. We put up tents for the night’s stay here.
From Mera Base Camp we hike to High Camp at 5800 metres in a five hour hike. As we climb higher we get nice views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. We then set up tents for the night at High Camp.
We begin our climb early to the Peak of Mera at 6461 metres getting amazing views of Pumori, Makalu, Lhotse, Lobuche, Cho Oyu and others as we go higher from the top. We then hike back to Khare and from Khare we hike onto Kongma Dingma. We stay the night in a tent here.
From Kongma Dingma, we head for Seto Pokhari passing through the high and remote valley of Hongu. It is a challenging path but we get nice views of Baruntse. When we get to Seto Pokhari, we get astonishing looks of Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse. At the frozen lake, we set up tent for the night.
Today, we head to Amphu Lapcha High Camp at 5400 metres. We have the challenge of crossing the Honku Valley but in doing so we get to see Chamling at a close range. We go onto tackle Hongu Glacier and Panch Pokhari before finally settling at Amphu Lapch High Camp where we set up camp for the night.
Today, we head to Amphu Laptsa La Pass first before trekking down into the Imja Valley in a nine hour hike. It is a tough day ahead as we need to be roped and walk in a line while going to the top of the pass. Then is down all the way down to the Imja Valley, where we set up tent for the night.
Today, we begin ascending up the snow path through trail to our next point of stay, the Island Peak High Camp at 5,600 metres while getting the mesmerizing views of the mountains and glaciers below. We set up camp for the night here.
Today we awake early and being our tricky ascend to Island Peak and a hundred metre climb to the top. From there we get the astonishing views of various snow-capped Himalayan mountains. When we have taken in the glory, we make our way down and head for Chhukung Village in a nine hour day walking and climbing. We stay at a lodge in Chhukung Village.
This day is kept specially to make up for any loss day on the way. If all goes as planned then we carry onto the program of the next day as usual.
Today, we head straight for Namche Bazaar pass thought Dingboche which we ascend to and then onto Tengboche where we would visit the Monastery and then down to Namche Bazaar where we stay at a lodge for the night.
Today, we head straight for Lukla descending most of the way and passing through Pakding. At Lukla, we check into a lodge for the night.
Today, we catch a flight back to Kathmandu in which we will get again to look at the North snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan Mountains and the greens hills below with the rivers, gorges and villages. At Kathmandu, we are taken to our three star lodging. Then we can freshen and do as we might please.
Today, you have the entire day to spend as it pleases you, like window shopping and others. In the evening, you will be taken to an authentic Nepali restaurant for dinner with the staff of the company. You spend the night at the hotel.
Today you will be taken to the International Airport and bid fare by a staff of the company, three hours ahead of your flight out for check in formalities.
At Breakfree Adventures, we hope that we provided you with a fabulous trip, where we take your security and comfort into consideration.
Cost
What is Included
- Airport pick up/drop by a private vehicle.
- Four night’s accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast as per the itinerary.
- Guided Kathmandu city tour at 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites with private vehicle and guide.
- Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu round trip flight fare.
- Domestic airport departure tax.
- All accommodations during the trek at tent/lodges.
- All camping equipment during the climb (two men tents, dining tent, toilet ten, table, chair)
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
- Experienced Government licensed English speaking trekking guide, climbing guide, kitchen staff and necessary porters (1 Porter for 2 trekkers) on the trek.
- Trekking/climbing staff costs like their transportation, food, accommodation, wages, and insurance.
- General climbing equipment's (rope, ice-crew, snow bar etc.)
- Sagarmatha National park permit fee.
- Island and Mera Peak climbing permit & all necessary paper work.
- Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees. (Please bring 2 passport size photos for TIMS & Permit)
- First Aid medical kit (carried by your trek guide).
- Trek gears like duffle bag, down jacket, sleeping bag and walking pole. (To be returned after the trek)
- Our souvenir to you - Breakfree Adventures T-shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate.
- Farewell dinner in Authentic Nepali Restaurant after the trek completion.
- All government and local taxes, VAT.
What is Not Included
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
- Monuments entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu.
- Nepal visa fee (bring accurate USD cash, US$30 per person for 15 days, and two passport photos))
- International airfare and travel insurance.
- Any kinds of drinks or personal expenses (tea/coffee, hot chocolate, boiled water, bottled water, soft drinks, beer, phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, hot shower etc.)
- Personal climbing equipment
- Tips for guide and porters.
FAQs
Yes, there are many peak climbing in Nepal where 1310 are identified Himalayan peaks over 6000m including 8 out of 14 highest peaks in the world. There are over 326 peaks officially available for climbing and mountaineering. So, undoubtedly Nepal is the best destination for mountaineering and climbing.
Trekking peaks are minor mountains starting from 5000 meters to over 6000 meters height but not extending to 7000 meters. Such peaks can be climbed in a day to the summit and back to base camp the same day. Climbing trekking peaks are popular among mountaineers who wish to scale the Himalayas with less time and effort.
Climbing the trekking peaks depends upon the geographic layout of the peak. There are various categories of trekking peaks such ranging from non-technical or slightly technical to technical and very highly technical routes.
Mera peak is located in the Everest region and it is the mountain in the Mahalangur section, Barun sub-section of the Himalaya. Mera is a trekking peak and there are three main summits of Mera; Mera North, 6,476 meters, Mera Central, 6,461 meters and Mera South, 6,065 meters as well as a smaller “trekking summit”.
Island peak is located in the Everest region and also known as Imja Tse. When observed from Dingboche, the peak looks like an island in a sea of ice so that is why it is called Island peak. Island peak is actually an extension of the ridge coming down off the south end of Lhotse Shar.
Mera peak height is 6,461 meters.
Island peak height is 6,189 meters.
Yes, Mera and Island peak are both trekking peaks which is considered easy to climb if compared with other technical Himalayan peaks of over 8000 mete
During Mera and Island peak climbing, first you will climb Mera peak then move up for Island peak climbing since Mera is closer to Lukla whereas Island peak is closer to Mt. Everest.
Island peak climbing is hard since it is located at extreme altitudes. the toughest part of the climb is the foot of the headwall. The air will be very thin and it’s a steep ascent to the top.
Climbing at peak at high altitudes is a dangerous sport. However, the climbing route is safe because of fixed lines. Besides there will be our experienced climbing guide who shall assist you and who has done climbing several times.
Mera peak climbing is partially in between trek and climb. It’s a regular trek for most parts of the journey to Mera and only during the summit time is the climbing part. The climbing grade of Mera is physically strenuous.
Mera peak climbing is strenuous with many steps and ups and downs though climbing higher on Mera peak through lower realm of death zone (5,500 m) is unpredictable. But there is a very minimum death rate.
Equipment required for the climb includes most of the climbing equipment like crampons, karabiners, rope, ice-axe etc. But all of this equipment can be hired before the climb in the Everest region.
Yes, all of your personal equipment can be bought or hired while in Kathmandu. Most of the important climbing equipment can be hired in the Everest region which your climbing guide shall take care of. But you can buy your own personal equipment like climbing boots, crampons whilst in Kathmandu at the Thamel area where many trekking and climbing shops are located.
Climb island peak and Mera peak starts and ends in Lukla where you fly from Kathmandu and start the trek leading to Mera peak climbing at first then later on Island peak. Afterward, hike back to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu.
Mera and Island Peak Trek will be guided by one of our experienced climbing guide who has scaled the peaks several times. Besides, there will be porters, cook and if required a climbing Sherpa for a bigger group. Cook is required during the climb since there are no lodges at the base camps of both peaks where we need to camp.
Altitude sickness on Mera Island Peak Climb can occur since you will be trekking at high altitude plus climbing peaks located at the high Himalayas. But the itinerary is well planned with slow altitude gain and enough acclimatization days. You are suggested to drink plenty of water, take a good rest and avoid coffee or alcohol during the trek.
The best time for Mera peak island peak expedition is from March to May (Spring) and from September to November (Autumn) which are considered the best climbing season during when weather will be clear, less snow and perfect for climbing the Himalayan peaks.
Island peak permit cost depends upon high and low seasons, and there is also a garbage deposit of US$500 which is later refunded after the clim
Mera peak permit cost depends upon high and low seasons, and there is also a garbage deposit of US$500 which is later refunded after the climb.
The climbing permits for Mera and Island peak climbing can be obtained from Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) but you don’t need to worry about it since all the permits are taken care by your company.
Anyone with good fitness can attempt to climb trekking peaks since there are non-technical peaks, which can be climbed safely by a fit trekker. With a professional climbing guide even slightly technical peaks can be attempted by a novice climber.
Travel insurance required for Mera Island peak climbing is definitely required since you are trekking at the high altitudes and climbing Himalayan peaks over 6000 meters. Your insurance policy should cover costs such as helicopter evacuation, medical expenses.
All food and accommodation during the trek is at the lodges however during the climb, you will be camping so all food will be prepared by your cook or climbing Sherpa. Food and tents will be carried by the porter up to the base camp.
Trip Information
We will provide you with comprehensive information on the every trek and tour we arrange. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information or have any questions, we are more than happy to assist you in anyway.
When to go:
Spring (February, March, April, May) and Autumn (October, November) are the best seasons for the Island and Mera Peak Climbing. Trekking in summer/monsoon (June, July) will be affected by rain but summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist. The trekking routes are crowded during spring and autumn but during monsoon and winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather best of nature.
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is highly recommended and is in fact compulsory should you be going trekking, rafting, paragliding etc. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter rescue, loss of luggage, etc. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please check with your insurance company that adventure activities and trekking above 3000m are covered in your policy, as some companies do not cover such things. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on the holiday; if you cannot provide this at the start of the holiday, you will be required to take out a suitable policy at that time.
Meals and Accommodation:
In Kathmandu, we normally use 3 stars hotel with breakfast but can upgrade upon request. During the Island and Mera Peak Climbing, we provide the best available camping tents (twin sharing), kitchen equipment, toilet & dining tents. If you are travelling in a group, you will share a tent with someone else of the same gender from your group. If you prefer a single tent, you may indicate your preference on request and pay a supplement. So in this arrangement overnight halts will be as fully organized camping program.
We provide quality food in sufficient quantities (breakfast, lunch and dinner) on a set menu prepared by our experienced cook & kitchen staff. Cup of tea or coffee is also included with meals. Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not normally extensive but it will be wholesome & nutritious with variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup & seasonal vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. You can ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.
Fitness and Experience Required:
Our 15 days Island and Mera Peak Climbing is moderate trek suitable for passionate walkers who have ability to walk at least 4-6hours a day with a light day pack. Walking in higher altitude is physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if you are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have positive attitude, self confidence and strong determination, you can accomplish the 15 days Island and Mera Peak Climbing successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly for some weeks prior of the trip are good idea to enhance your strength and stability. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should inform us before booking the trek.
The Trekking Group:
For the Island and Mera Peak Climbing, there will be one Guide, assistant Guide (6 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porter for luggage carrying (2 trekkers: 1 porter). This arrangement ensures that should anybody in the group is sick; the trip can still go ahead as planned. We can run the Island and Mera Peak Climbing for group of any size, but generally have a maximum of sixteen people, as we’ve found this to be the optimum size for a successful trip. However, if you’d like to make a group booking for more than twelve people together, we can arrange this too.
Trekking Guides and Staff:
The most significant thing that makes your Island and Mera Peak Climbing successful, enjoyable and memorable is the expert, experienced, courteous and helpful trek and Guide and the crew members who have ability of operating your days in the mountain smoothly. Your trip will be led by the best and most professional Guide. All of our Trekking Guides are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, Guiding skills and personal aptitude. With an objective of sustaining local communities Breakfree Adventures employs staffs who have plenty of knowledgeable about culture, flora and fauna, geography, and history of Nepal. Trekking Guide of Breakfree Adventures are also trained with following trainings to make them educated on potential medical issues during their trek, biodiversity and environmental issues, English language, etc:
Intensive Wilderness First Aid – KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project)
Trekking Guide Training – Nepal Governments Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation department of Hotel Management and Tourism Training Centre of Nepal
Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal)
English Language – KEEP (Kathmandu environment education project)
Conservation and Biodiversity TAAN
Rock, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (Climbing leaders) Nepal Mountaineering Association
Our Trekking Guides obviously speak English sufficient enough to communicate but please consider this is not our mother language. The guides and porters know the routes and locality like the back of their hand, they practice the local culture themselves and they are extremely passionate about their country and its cultural aspects.
Climate and Weather:
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is late September to December, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good and days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.
Himalayan weather can be unpredictable where nights are generally cooler and days warmer. It’s a bit colder during the winter season (Jan to Feb) but days can be quite warm and lovely if the sun is shining. You can expect a bit of snow in the months of January/February and December. Expect the unexpected! The temperature could be as high as 20 deg C to -15 deg C low.
Safety and Security:
Security and safety are a high priority of our company however there are risks associated with adventure travel, that you should consider before booking .Our trip operators constantly monitor their areas of operation and will cancel or re-route a trip if they feel a destination is unsafe. The decision to travel to a particular country or region is a personnel one.
Responsible Travel
Breakfree Adventures is a leading trekking and travel agency with dedicated travel Professionals who are well trained to give you the best of what Nepal has to offer. Our professional team follows a social philosophy that accepts responsibility for the local people and the environment in which we work. We respect the natural environment and the culture of our country, and we help travellers from around the world discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Nepal. We know that responsible travel tries to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment and maximize employment and income-generating opportunities for local communities. The whole of Nepal, including those living in remote rural areas that have very few other opportunities for development, benefits from sustainable tourism.
Breakfree Adventures is passionate about preserving the environment. As responsible tour guides in Nepal, we strive to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the local communities through which we travel. While trekking to different destinations, we choose environmentally- friendly lodges that respect the needs of their staff members. We take care of our staff as well as our valued clients. During our treks and other trips, we follow a zero garbage policy (“pack in, pack out”) and leave nothing behind in the campsites. We always welcome your feedback and comments regarding responsible travel, so please send an e-mail to let us know what you think.
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