The Magical View from Mera Peak
You can go hiking or climbing — or you can tackle something in between: the trek to Mera Peak. If you are an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge, this extraordinary route is exactly what you are after. It is one of the most beautiful trails in the Himalaya, yet one that will test you at every turn. No wonder — the summit sits at 6,476 metres. You do not need to be a seasoned mountaineer, but you should have solid experience in high-altitude terrain.
How to Get There
When you travel to Nepal to climb Mera Peak, you should expect to be on the road for quite a while. From Germany, you first fly to the capital, Kathmandu. It is always a good idea to familiarise yourself with your passenger rights in advance — delays are a common occurrence on this route.
After arriving, you continue with a short but spectacular flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu or Lukla. Conditions at Phaplu airport are generally somewhat more favourable than at Lukla. From here, the wonderful adventure through the overwhelming nature of the Himalayas begins.
Location of Mera Peak
Mera Peak is one of the imposing mountains in the Khumbu region, south-east of the famous Mount Everest. It is the highest so-called "trekking peak" in Nepal — the tallest summit in the country that can be climbed under this category. Mera Peak is truly beautiful, surrounded by the densely forested valleys of Hangu Drangka and Hinku.
The Route to the Summit
As mentioned, the summit of Mera Peak lies at 6,476 metres. Even for experienced hikers, this is a trek that demands thorough preparation. It is not so much the technical difficulty that makes it challenging — it is the extraordinary environment and, above all, the altitude.
The sheer length of the trek combined with the conditions at this elevation make it a genuine test of endurance. Yet it is a challenge that is more than worth the effort. It begins with a beautiful hike through the Himalaya to the high camp at Mera Peak.
From here you ascend Mera Peak via the glacier, using climbing equipment such as crampons, jumars, ice axes and rope techniques — quite a challenge in itself. But once you reach the summit, you are rewarded with what may be the finest view in the entire Himalaya. On a clear day, the panorama stretches all the way to India. You can also admire five of the Himalaya's most imposing giants: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu and Kangchenjunga.
The Best Time to Visit
Although you can hike in Nepal virtually all year round, autumn is without doubt the best time to travel. Temperatures are pleasant, the air is exceptionally clear, and the views of the Himalaya are at their most spectacular. Spring is also an excellent time — the landscape is in full bloom and nature is at its most vibrant.
