Mera Peak Climbing and Amphu Lapcha Pass - 21 days

Mera Peak Climbing and Amphu Lapcha Pass - 21 days


Mera Peak Climbing and Amphu Lapcha Pass of 21 days is a combination of trekking and climbing adventure that takes you to the summit of Nepal's highest trekking peak. Climb Mera Peak and cross the Amphu Lapcha Pass in the wild Hongu valley. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure leads you to one of the least visited trails in the Everest region.

Starting from Lukla, you walk past the lush rhododendron forests of Hinku Valley and reach the snow-covered glaciers and ice lakes of Hongu Valley. En route, you climb Mera Peak and cross the formidable Amphu Lapcha Pass. Technical climbing is needed to cross this ice-covered pass.

For newbies who are keen to take up mountaineering, this is the ideal climbing adventure. You get to practice your climbing moves on Mera Peak as well as Amphu Lapcha. A Sherpa climbing guide with more than two decades of climbing experience will guide you up the mountain. 

You return via the Dudh Koshi River valley stopping at traditional Sherpa villages en route. Throughout your journey, you will get to enjoy close-up views of 8,000 and 7,000-meter Himalayan peaks.

If you would like to climb only Mera Peak without Amphu Lapcha Pass, then our Mera Peak Climbing 18 days itinerary will be the best option for you.

How Much Does This Trip Cost?

The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.

Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

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Trip Highlights

  • Climb Nepal's highest trekking peak, Mera Peak (6,461m)
  • The daring crossing of Amphu Lapcha one of the most challenging mountains passes in the Himalayas
  • Within 21 days trek across glaciers, high altitude mountain lakes, pristine rhododendron forests, and traditional Sherpa villages
  • Visit the bio-diverse Makalu Barun National Peak and Sagarmatha National Park
  • Walk past three dramatic mountain valleys - Hinku, Hongu, and Dudh Koshi river valleys

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) and Transfer to hotel
Day 2 Trip preparation in Kathmandu
Day 3 Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) and trek to Paiya (2,730m/8,956ft) - 35 minutes flight and 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 4 Trek to Panggom (2,846m/9,335ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 5 Trek to Ningsow (3,276m/10,746ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 6 Trek to Chhatra Khola (2,800m/9,184ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek
Day 7 Trek to Kothe (3,691m/12,107ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 8 Trek to Thaknak (4,358m/14,295ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek
Day 9 Trek to Khare (5,045m/16,548ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek
Day 10 Acclimatization Day in Khare and Pre-Climb Training
Day 11 Trek to Mera High Camp (5,780m/18,958ft) - 5 to 6 hours Trek
Day 12 Summit Mera Peak (6,461m/21,193ft) and trek to Kongma Dingma (4,850m/ 15,908ft) - 11 to 12 hours trek/climbing
Day 13 Contingency Day
Day 14 Rest Day at Kongma Dingma (4850m/ 15,908ft)
Day 15 Trek to Seto Pokhari (5035m/16,520ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 16 Trek to Amphu Lapcha Base Camp South (5,650m/18,538ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek
Day 17 Cross Amphu Lapcha (5,845m/19,172ft) and trek to Chukkung (4,730m/15,515ft) - 9 to 10 hours trek
Day 18 Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,284ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 19 Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek
Day 20 Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) - 35 minutes flight
Day 21 Depart Kathmandu

Trip Overview

If you are looking for a challenging high altitude trekking and climbing adventure this Mera Peak Climbing and Amphu Lapcha Pass - 21 Days is for you. This Himalayan adventure takes you to a wild off-the-beaten track that regular trekkers find intimidating. The trail to Mera Peak leads you past the thinly populated Hinku Valley covered with virgin rhododendron and bamboo forests. You spend a night camping at Mera High Camp before summiting Mera Peak, Nepal's highest trekking peak.

It is an easy hike up the mountain. Only the last few meters to the summit requires technical climbing. Though the trail is easy the high altitude makes the climb difficult. Thin air and cold wind add to your troubles. Stunning views of five of the 14 highest peaks in the world- Mount Everest (8,848m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m) can be enjoyed from Mera Peak.

After the summit, you trek to the Upper Hongku Valley crossing mesmerizing mountain lakes en route. You set up camp at Amphu Lapcha Base Camp South before climbing up the dramatic mountain pass covered with ice shelves and serac cliffs. The route up and down the pass is technical and you will be crossing it using fixed ropes, jumars, and ice axe. For experienced climbers, this is not difficult, but for novice climbers, the crossing can be daunting.

After crossing the pass you descend to Chukkung and hike down to Lukla via Namche and Phakding. The Dudh Koshi Valley is home to several traditional Sherpa settlements. Staying overnight at teahouses run by Sherpa families will give you a glimpse of Sherpa culture.

This adventure will also take you to the heart of two of Nepal's famous national parks – the Makalu Barun National Park and Sagarmatha National Park. These national parks are home to rare animals like the snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear, etc.

This trip is suitable for those who have trekked at high altitudes before. Climbing experience is not necessary but will be helpful. Basic knowledge of rope climbing is essential. Our climbing guides will also teach you how to abseil and rappel using ropes at the pre-climb training camp.

Accommodation will be arranged at local teahouses wherever available. At places where there are no teahouses, we will set up a tented camp. While camping the meals will be prepared by the local crew.

The best seasons for this adventure are spring and autumn when the sky remains clear and the weather pleasant. There is less snow on the mountains during these seasons which makes trekking and climbing easier.

Route Map

Mera Peak Climbing And Amphu Lapcha Pass Route Map Mera Peak Climbing and Amphu Lapcha Pass Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) and Transfer to hotel

If your plane lands during the day you will get to enjoy some amazing aerial views of the mountains and the valleys surrounding Kathmandu. Our representative will pick you up from the airport and drop you at your hotel. Check-in and take a rest.

Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2
Trip preparation in Kathmandu

There will be a meet up with your guide and other members of the team today.  The guide will brief you on your climbing adventure and share some valuable tips, dos, and don'ts, etc.  After the briefing, there will be a final gear and equipment check. Later you can explore Thamel or the local markets on your own. If you need some help you can ask us or the guide.

Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3
Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) and trek to Paiya (2,730m/8,956ft) - 35 minutes flight and 5 to 6 hours trek

Lukla Airport Tenzing–Hillary Airport, Lukla

You take an early flight to Lukla. It is once in a lifetime experience to fly above some of the highest peaks in the world. The landing on the narrow runway on the top of a rocky cliff is thrilling as well as scary. At the airport, you meet the porters who will carry the heavy stuff. Sort out your luggage and start your trek.

Walk to the south of Lukla and take a downward trail to Surkey Village. From there you hike up to Chutok La, a mountain pass. You walk down briefly and arrive at the village of Paiya, your stop for the night.

Overnight at a teahouse in Paiya.

Day 4
Trek to Panggom (2,846m/9,335ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

The trail to Panggom is dotted with traditional farms and thick forests of rhododendrons. En route, you walk across the Paiya Khola and ascend the Khari La. Make your way past pristine rhododendron and bamboo forests. Follow an up and down route till you arrive at Panggom, a Sherpa settlement.

Overnight at a teahouse in Panggom.

Day 5
Trek to Ningsow (3,276m/10,746ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Leave Panggom and make your way towards Ningsow. You climb past virgin forests to Pankongma La (3,174m). After crossing the pass you exit the Dudh Koshi River Valley and enter the Hingku Valley. The trails along the Hinku and Kongu Valleys are the least visited trails in the Everest region. With fewer people on the route, you can enjoy a quiet walk.

Awesome views of Kongde, Numbur Himal, and Manju Peak mesmerize you. After some time we reach Ningsow, the rest stop for tonight.

Overnight at a teahouse in Ningsow.

Day 6
Trek to Chhatra Khola (2,800m/9,184ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Thick jungles and moss-covered paths line the trail. There are no human settlements en route. We choose an open shady spot to have our packed lunch. Later we continue with our journey and cross huge boulders with steps cut on it. Soon we reach Chhatra Khola, where we sleep overnight at one of the teahouses. 

Overnight at a teahouse in Chhatra Khola.

Day 7
Trek to Kothe (3,691m/12,107ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

Kothe Village Kothe - Small village on the way to Mera Peak Climbing

We walk through the bio-diverse Makalu Barun National Park which is home to rare Himalayan mammals like the snow leopard, red panda, clouded leopard, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, etc. The pristine landscape of the Hinku Valley is enchanting. Though the walk is tough at times, it's pleasurable to walk on a secluded route. We follow an up and down trail till we reach Kothe.

Overnight at a teahouse in Kothe.

Day 8
Trek to Thaknak (4,358m/14,295ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek

Trek up a trail that winds up through the Upper Hinku valley. The lush rhododendron forests disappear and yak pastures with grass stubble cover the landscape. We cross Gondishung and visit Lungsumgba Gompa, an ancient Buddhist shrine. The shrine lies beneath an enormous rock and the crew pay homage to deities by burning incense. Mera Peak, Charpati Himal, Thamserku, and Kusum Kanguru rise majestically in the background. After about an hour's walk, we reach Thaknak, a camp used by yak herders.

Overnight at a teahouse in Thaknak.

Day 9
Trek to Khare (5,045m/16,548ft) - 3 to 4 hours trek

Khare Khare Village -

We walk past a stunning landscape today. It is a difficult walk but the views are awesome. We hike up to the Dig Glacier and the Charpati Tal, a picturesque mountain lake. Enticing views of Mera Peak, Kyeshar glacier, and Charpati Himal make us forget our difficult walk as we huff and puff down to Dig Kharka. Crossing the Hinku Nup and Lhotse Shar glaciers brings us finally to Khare or the Mera Peak Base Camp.

Overnight at a teahouse in Khare.

Day 10
Acclimatization Day in Khare and Pre-Climb Training

We spend a rest day acclimatizing and preparing ourselves for the summit push. The climbing guides will teach us the basics of mountaineering at the pre-climb training camp. There will be practice sessions on the proper use of a climbing harness, jumar, ice axe, carabiner, etc. You will get to try your abseiling and rappelling moves on a rocky slope.

If one is a novice climber, this class will be very helpful as you will be receiving climbing tips from some of the most experienced local climbers. The training session will be followed by a final gear and equipment check. Later the final packing for the summit push will be done. 

Please do note climbing boots of size 12 and 12+ are not available in Nepal. If you wear boots of that size we recommend you bring your own climbing boots.

Overnight at a teahouse in Khare.

Day 11
Trek to Mera High Camp (5,780m/18,958ft) - 5 to 6 hours Trek

Mera High Camp Mera High Camp

After breakfast, we hike up a rocky path to Mera La. We can view the three summits of  Mera Peak – Mera North (6,476m), Mera Central (6,461m), and Mera South (6,065m). Our summit will be to the Mera Central. We traverse across the Mera Glacier to arrive at the Mera Peak High Camp. Up to this point, no technical climbing is involved.

At the high camp, the crew serves us hot drinks and refreshments. Sitting in our tents we enjoy views of five of the highest peaks in the world- Mount Everest (8,848m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m). There are close up views of Chamlang (7,319m) and Baruntse (7,129m) too. For each climber, a single sleeping tent is provided. Nutritious meals will be prepared for the team by the local crew.

Overnight at a tented camp in Mera High Camp.

Day 12
Summit Mera Peak (6,461m/21,193ft) and trek to Kongma Dingma (4,850m/ 15,908ft) - 11 to 12 hours trek/climbing

Summit Day Summit Day

The summit push for Mera Peak begins at 2 AM. After having our breakfast, we leave our camp and head out in the darkness. Our headlights light the way as we rope up using a  man-rope. After the group is secured we hike up. The glacier. In the initial phase, no technical climbing is required. The high altitude and extreme cold are the only two factors that make climbing difficult.

A steep incline at the last 40-50 meters to the summit is the most difficult section of the climb. We ascend the incline using a fixed rope and jumars and reach the summit latest by 9 or 10 AM. It is amazing to stand on the summit with Mount Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8481m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), Cho Oyu (8201m), etc. soaring close to us.

We spend a couple of minutes at the summit savoring our victory and taking pictures. Later we descend via the same route. After reaching the Mera High Camp we rest for a while and have our meal.  Later we walk down to Khare and take the trail radiating eastwards. We follow the path leading to Kongma Dingma, our stop for the night.

Overnight at a tented camp in Kongma Dingma.

Day 13
Contingency Day

A reserve day in case bad weather spoils our summit bid. This buffer day will also be useful in case our flight gets canceled or delayed or any unforeseen emergency leads to losing a day from our itinerary. If everything runs per schedule, you can utilize this day to explore villages en route or Kathmandu.

Day 14
Rest Day at Kongma Dingma (4850m/ 15,908ft)

The ascent of Mera Peak will leave you physically drained. A rest day at Kongma Dingma will allow us to rest and recharge our internal batteries for the difficult crossing of Amphu Lapcha.

Overnight at a tented camp in Kongma Dingma.

Day 15
Trek to Seto Pokhari (5035m/16,520ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

The scenery is stunning as we walk past the yak pastures flanked by towering snowcapped peaks. We head towards Seto Pokhari ascending a snowy moraine. Overnight stay will be arranged at a teahouse near the beautiful Seto Pokhari, a glacial lake. Baruntse and Chamlang Himal look marvelous.

Overnight at a tented in Seto Pokhari.

Day 16
Trek to Amphu Lapcha Base Camp South (5,650m/18,538ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Amphu Lapcha Base Camp Amphu Lapcha Base Camp

Dramatic scenery enthralls us as we trek towards Amphu Lapcha Base Camp South. The sight of Mount Everest, the world's tallest mountain, and enchanting lakes along the Hongu basin keeps us mesmerized. We cross the Hongu Pokhari before finally arriving at the Amphu Lapcha Base Camp.

Overnight at Amphu Lapcha Base Camp.

Day 17
Cross Amphu Lapcha (5,845m/19,172ft) and trek to Chukkung (4,730m/15,515ft) - 9 to 10 hours trek

Amphu Lapcha Pass Amphu Lapcha Pass

Leaving the base camp you head along a snowy trail to the mountain pass of Amphu Lapcha. The Upper Hongu Valley is one of the wildest and harshest places in the Nepal Himalaya. The pass covered with serac cliffs and ice shelves is one of the most challenging mountain passes in the Himalayas. It requires technical climbing to get over the pass. You climb over the ice shelves which rise to about 20 feet. From the top one can enjoy incredible views of Mera Peak, Lhotse, Chamlang, and Hongu Basin before rappelling down a rocky cliff.  

After you get to even ground you trek past the Imja Glacier and the Imja Valley. Enjoying splendid views of Island Peak you walk down to Chukkung, your stop for the night.

Overnight at a teahouse in Chukkung.

Day 18
Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,284ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

Namche Bazaar Namche Bazaar - Gateway to the Everest region and sherpa capital of the Khumbu region of Nepal

After breakfast, we leave Chukkung and descend to the village of Bibre. We cross the Imja River and head down to Namche, the commercial capital of the Sherpas. Once we reach the large settlement we head to a teahouse and enjoy a hot shower and good food.

Overnight at a teahouse in Namche.

Day 19
Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

The trek down to Lukla is filled with delightful sights. We cross several metal bridges including the Hillary Bridge, the highest bridge in the Everest region. Walk past the villages of Monjo and Phakding before arriving in Lukla. After dinner, you celebrate your achievement with your Sherpa crew.

Overnight at a teahouse in Lukla.

Day 20
Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) - 35 minutes flight

Lukla Airport Lukla Ariprot - Flying from Lukla to Kathmandu

We leave the beloved mountains finally and fly to Kathmandu. On reaching the capital city, you check-in at your hotel. Later in the day, you can explore more of the city with a guide (book a half-day guided tour) or on your own. 'Ason' an ancient local bazaar lies close to Thamel.

Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 21
Depart Kathmandu

Our representative will drop you at the airport 3 hours before your flight departs. Do get in touch with us if you feel inclined to discover more of the Himalayas.




Images:  Nick Farr

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Based on 7 reviews


Latest Trip Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.

Bradley Lane
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 17, 2022

Mera Peak Climbing and Amphu Lapcha Pass

GADUL did his best and his effort and I did it. Thanks to Him and specially Naba for making it happen. The company is the best for nepal trek and climbing expedition. Thanks to you again.,
Robert Lopez
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 17, 2022

Wonderful trip to Mera Peak

The first time trip with third Rock Adventures trek exceeded all expectations and was challenging on many levels both physically and mentally. It's a long trip, but the route took us in a loop away from the busy EBC track and into areas of complete isolation which constantly took your breath away (literally). We did meet some other smaller groups, but it's interesting to note that none of them reached their objectives - because they didn't have the outstanding support we were provided with by Gadul Tamang and his team of climbing Sherpas, porters and cooks. Aside from the amazing food and logistical stuff, their technical expertise ensured that we climbed the mountains and passes with confidence and safety. This trek was much more difficult than the Everest High Passes trip I did few years back, but totally amazing thanks to the efforts of all involved at this company and the fantastic group of new mates that shared this "once in a lifetime" experience! Get fit and give it a go, wonderful
Awang Yong
flagsMalaysia
Oct 16, 2022

The best memorable trip of my life

I did 21 days of trek and climb from Lukla to Mera via Amphu Laptsa Pass. Amphu Laptsa Pass is graded D and is the second hardest pass in the Himalaya region. It was an amazing experience to land and take off at the world's most dangerous airport. The feeling is indescribable until you experience it. 9 of us in the group plus 4 guides, 10 porters, and 5 kitchen crew throughout the hike. We stayed in tea houses and tents combined on the trip. The higher the altitude, the more basic the toilet will be. We were amazed that we survived without any problem The weather is extremely cold and the daily temperature is below zero degrees Celsius. Hail and snow are common during our hiking period. 21 days without connecting to the outside world is another good experience for us as well. No electricity available and I charged my watch and camera with a solar charger. Thank you Third Rock team for this memorable trip. Special thanks to our main guide Chhewang Palden Sherpa.
Yes
Oliver King
flagsAustralia
Oct 16, 2022

Trip of my lifetime, climbed Mera Peak

I really had a trip of a life time and love it! The trek had challenged me physically and mentally. The views were absolutely breathtaking. The support crew and climbing Sherpas were experience and I always felt safe even though the entire team and fellow travelers were new to me. The right mindset is required for this trek and do train for it. A big thanks to Naba, Lakpa and other supporting Sherpas in the group! The services were outstanding from the food to accommodation and acclimatization of the itinerary. Highly recommended.
Yes
Edward Wilson
flagsAustralia
Feb 27, 2020

Outstanding experience of climbing Mera Peak

I traveled with this company for the first time yet the experience was outstanding. The trip included climbing Mera crossing the Amphu Laptsa Pass. For anyone who is looking for a different type of adventure in Nepal, then this is the trip for you!. The inclusion of the Amphu Laptsa Pass was definitely one of the highlights of the trip. It takes you off the main trekking routes, away from the more crowded trails. During this section of the trip, the views are outstanding and we did not encounter any other trekking groups which in peak season is a rarity. For those who want a real adventure, then this is the trip for you. Huge respect and appreciation to the team of Third Rock Adventures. The founder Naba is extremely helpful and answers any queries you have promptly. His guides, cooks, and porters go out of their way to ensure you have the best experience possible during your trip. The food, equipment provided and accommodation are excellent, not to mention the emphasis on safety. I would highly recommend this company to anyone who is thinking of traveling to Nepal, you won't get as much bang from your buck from any other operator. Thanks again to my Sherpa guides and other helpers whose contribution for this trip is indescribable .
Yes
Salvatore Di Giulio
flagsItaly
Nov 03, 2019

The best adventure of my lifetime to Mera Peak

Amazing mountaineering holiday with a wonderful team of experienced guides; exceeded all my expectations. The whole trip was perfectly organized with fantastic support from the guides all the way. It was a dream holiday that was made a reality by the wonderful team of Third Rock Adventures. Would strongly recommend this company based on my experience. Mera Peak Climb with Amphu Laptcha Pass was a real adventure which I could not afford to miss. I am planning for the other peak climbing with the same team again.
Yes
Matthijs Hardt
flagsNetherlands
Oct 24, 2019

Knowledgeable climbing guide and the team

I had a Great trip with Third Rock Adventures and their professional team. Really all the service and good guidance that you would expect from any western company. Knowledgeable climbing guides, fun, and well-organized rest of the crew. You only have to follow in their footsteps and very important on a trip like this: Food was great too. Did some trekking in Nepal before, and want to do more? this is a good organization to do some peak climbing with. I would Really recommend them.
Yes
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