Mera and Island Climbing via Amphu Lapcha Pass [5,860 meters/ 19,225 ft] | 25 Days

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in TIA of Kathmandu (1,350 meters), and transfer to hotel

When you fly to Kathmandu on a clear day, you will notice the shining Himalayas from the airplane. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, representatives from Himalayan Diamond Adventures will greet you with a fresh flower garland and a traditional Nepali greeting. They will then escort you to your hotel, which is a 15-20 minute drive from the airport, barring any traffic jams.

After checking in, you will have a short refreshment meeting. In the evening, the company will host a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, complete with a cultural dance performance to celebrate the start of your trip. During the dinner, your guide will provide a brief overview of the schedule for the following day.

Accommodation: 3 to 5 Stars standard of hotel.

Transportation: Private tourist bus or car.

Meals: Welcome Dinner includes drinks.

Day 02: Climbing preparation day before leaving mountain.

The second day of the tour is focused on ensuring that we have all the necessary permits, documents, and trekking/climbing gear. In the morning, we will hold a short meeting to discuss the context and plan of the trekking. If you need any additional trekking gear, we can help you find authentic gear shops to purchase them from. We will also provide you with a trekking briefing to ensure that you are well-prepared for the journey.

Maximum elevation: 1,350m (4,429 ft).

Accommodation: 3 to 5 Stars Hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 03: Fly to Lukla and trek to Paiya 2,730m (8,956 ft).

Get ready for the most thrilling and exciting flight of your life, as the Ramechhap to Lukla flight is known for its breathtaking views of the magnificent mountains in the eastern region of Nepal. Upon arrival in Lukla (2,860 meters), our trekking journey will officially begin.

Our destination for today is Paiya, located at an altitude of 2,730 meters. We will trek amidst a mixed forest of rhododendron and oak, taking in the beautiful panoramas along the way. We will walk downhill through Sherpa residences, cultivated lands, and cross several rivulets, such as Hadi Khola and Surke Khola, via suspension bridges. After 4 to 5 hours of continuous trekking, with some steep ascents and descents, we will arrive at Paiya where we will stay overnight.

Maximum elevation: 2,730m (8,956 ft).

Trekking duration: 5hrs, 570m descent, 440m ascent.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: L, D, B with hot drinks.

Day 04: Paiya to Panggom 2,846m (9,337 ft).

The trekking trail from Paiya to Panggom requires us to rise and drop through forests and cultivated lands. Leaving Paiya, we will climb a gentle uphill way via a narrow and slippery path, passing through silver pine, bamboo, and rhododendron forests. After about 2 hours of continuous uphill trekking, we will cross Kari La (3,145 meters) and then descend slightly to Kharte with stunning wide angles of valley views. There, we will stop at a tea house for hot lunch and refreshments.

Following lunch, we will continue our journey by descending a little before trekking uphill again to reach Panggom. This town is more hospitable and suitable for tourists, as it has hotels with modern-day facilities such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, and comfortable rooms. We will spend the night in Panggom and enjoy the amenities it has to offer.

Maximum elevation: 2,846m (9,337 ft):

Trekking duration:  5 to 6hrs, ascent 660m, descent 544m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: B, L & D with hot drinks.

Day 05: Panggom to Ningsuwa 2,863m (9,393 ft).

Today we will begin our scenic trekking journey by walking gradually uphill. We will reach Panggoma La, which is at an altitude of 3,286 meters (10,781 ft), and then descend slightly to Sibuje Danda with panoramic scenic views. From Sibuje Hill, our trail will separate from the path to Chereme and continue to the forest camp corner. Finally, we will trek through a small jungle on a narrow but natural trail to reach Ningsuwa, which typically takes 4 to 5 hours. We will stay overnight in Ningsuwa.

Maximum elevation: 2,863m (9,393 ft)

Trekking duration: 4hrs, ascent 450m, descent 848m.

Accommodation: T-house.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with hot drinks.

Day 06: Ningsow to Chhatra Khola 2,800m (9,186 ft).

Our destination today is Chhatra Khola, located at 2,800 meters. We will begin by ascending from Ningsow on a steep trail until we reach Ramailo Danda, which translates to "Viewing Hill" in English. This is a beautiful spot to enjoy the panoramic views of Salpa valley and Mera peak, take some pictures, and rest for a while. Then, we will trek uphill for a short distance through pine and rhododendron forests before steeply descending on the opposite side of Ramailo Danda. We will eventually come across a rivulet that marks the boundary of Makalu Barun National Park. The trekking trail can be difficult, but we may be able to spot some wild animals such as red pandas, deer, bears, and more. We will spend the night in Chhatra Khola.

Maximum elevation: 2,863m (9,393 ft)

Trekking duration: 4hrs, ascent 450m, descent 848m.

Accommodation: T-house.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with hot drinks.

Day 07: Chhatra Khola to Kothe, 3,691m (12,109 ft).

To reach Kothe from Chhatra Khola, we head north on the main trail to Mera Peak, passing through bamboo and mixed pine forests. Initially, our trail ascends steeply under the bamboo forest before gradually ascending for a long time. After approximately an hour of jungle walk, we reach Thoktor, where plenty of tea houses are available for trekkers to take a break, have refreshments and enjoy a hot lunch before continuing to Kothe.

After lunch, we walk downhill gradually to the Hinku Khola river, passing through bamboo and pine forests. Finally, the trail slightly ascends to reach Kothe lodge, which takes approximately an hour for the average trekker. Kothe is situated on the bank of the Hinku River and is similar to a glacier debris area. Due to the presence of tea houses and other facilities, Kothe is a tourist-friendly place.

Maximum elevation: 3,691m(12,109 ft).

Trekking duration: 7-8 hours.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day: 08 Kothe to Thangnag 4,350m (14,270 ft).

We will trek through the rocky debris along the Hunku Khola, shaded by the towering Mera Peak. At the start of our journey, we will be greeted by the stunning view of Kyaser peak. After about two hours of trekking over the moraines along the Hunku river, we will arrive at Gondishung, a summer herder's settlement on the west bank of Hunku Thangnag. This is a perfect spot for a refreshment break and a cup of tea. The trail from Gondishung will be comparatively easier, but the increasing altitude requires extra caution. Along the way, we will pass the 200-year-old Lungsum Gha Gompa, where we can see Mera Peak scripted in rock, along with its route to the summit. A short walk from here will bring us to Thangnag, a summer grazing area with basic lodges and shops. Thangnag resembles a glacier debris field of the Kyasar peak (Charpate Himal). We will spend the night at a lodge in Thangnag.

Maximum elevation: 4,350m (14,270 ft).

Trekking duration: 4-5hrs, ascent 660m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day: 09 Thangnag acclimatization day.

It is important to take a rest in the mountains after several days of rapid ascent. After breakfast, we will hike up below Kusum Khangaru peak, taking in the mesmerizing views of Mera, Kyaser peak, and more. After enjoying some beautiful views of the valley, we will return to our tea house for a hot lunch. In the afternoon, we will have some time for climbing practice. We will spend the night at a lodge in Thangnag.

Activities: Hiking and climbing practice.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day 10: Thangnag to Khare 4,950m (16,240 ft).

We start the day with a delicious breakfast and follow the lateral moraine of Dig Glacier to Dig Kharka, which offers spectacular views of Charpate Himal. The trail climbs over the breathless Khare through moraines to the snout of the Hinku Nup and Shar Glaciers. It then climbs more steeply to Khare. During our trek we can view the Northern face of Mera Peak which will be an amazing experience. Overnight stay in a lodge in Khare.

Maximum elevation: 4,950m (16,240 ft).

Trekking duration: 3-4hrs, ascent 600m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day 11: Hike to Mera La 5,415m, (17,765 ft).

We start the day as soon as possible since we have a long day ahead. We will spend around 7 hours trekking to Mera La from Khare and back to the lodge to ensure proper acclimatization and altitude adjustment. After an early breakfast, we will pack our lunch and necessary water to get us through the day. We trek through the moraine, admiring the permanent snowfields and breathtaking mountain views. Firstly, we start our journey by ascending steep uphill above Khare village then climb gradually through the moraines. Finally, we will climb steep icy slopes with support of climbing gears to reach Mera La (5415 m). We then trek back down to return to the lodge.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day: 12 Khare to Mera High Camp 5,780m (18,958 ft).

We trek for about 6 to 7 hours from Khare to arrive at Mera High Camp (5780 m). We follow a rocky trail, which can be hazardous if it has recently snowed, as there are a number of crevasses. We make our way to the top of the rock band, which is marked by a large rock cairn. Today we can enjoy climbing with excellent surrounding mountain views of Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, the south face of Lhotse, Nuptse, Chamlang, and Baruntse. Overnight stay at a safe tent in Mera High Camp.

Maximum elevation: 5,780m (18,958 ft).

Climbing duration: 6 - 7hrs, ascent 830m.

Accommodation: Tent.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day: 13 Attempt Mera summit 6,461m (21,197 ft) Khongmadingma  4,950m (16,240 ft).

Day 13 is one of the most memorable and important days of this tour, as today we climb Mera Peak. We will wake up at around 01:00 AM for breakfast and then head out. It will be very cold at the beginning of the climb, but we will warm up as we continue ascending up the permanent snowfield and onto a peculiar snowfield. The first rays of the sun will hit the big peaks, bathing them in an amazing red glow. The route is still non-technical as we slowly climb higher into the ever-thinning air. The slope steepens for a section behind the ridge and the summit comes back into view.

At the foot of the final steep summit cone, we may attach to a fixed rope depending on the conditions. The summit is only a few meters away. From the summit, we will enjoy outstanding panoramas of the mighty mountains including Mt. Everest 8,848 meters (29,029 ft), Cho-Oyu 8,201 meters (26,906 ft), Lhotse 8,516 meters(27,939 ft), Makalu 8,464 meters (27,769 ft), Kanchenjunga 8,586 meters (28,169 ft), Nuptse 7,855 meters (25,771 ft), Chamlang 7,319 meters (24,012 ft), Baruntse 7,129 meters (23,389 ft), and other neighboring mountains. After taking a 360 degree view of the majestic mountains and snapping some pictures as memories, we will retrace our steps back to the high camp where we will rest for a while before descending to Kongma Dingma.

Maximum elevation: 4,850m (15,912 ft).

Climbing duration: 5-6hrs, ascent 681m.

Descending duration: 4-5hrs, descent 1,611m.

Accommodation: T-house.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day: 14 Contingency:

Today is a contingency day in case we fall behind schedule due to unfavorable weather or other circumstances that may impact our mountain climbing. If we are able to keep up with the planned itinerary, we will not need to use this extra day and will continue with our journey as scheduled

Day 15: Trek to Seto Pokhari via Hinku valley 5,200m (17,060 ft), 6hrs.

The day begins with a tiring uphill climb, but it provides a stunning backdrop of Mera Peak and the Khongma Dingma Valley. Today, we will have a more enjoyable day, despite the challenges of the high altitude. The landscape is exceptionally beautiful, with magnificent mountain views surrounding us throughout our journey to Seto Pokhari. The trail gradually rises and descends, offering a majestic view of Chamlang Himal and the Mera back view. We pass through meadows, rock boulders, and turquoise rivers along the way. At the end of the day, we cross a moraine debris before reaching Seto Pokhari, a milky-colored lake. There are some seasonal huts on the banks of the lake where we will stay.

Maximum elevation: 5,200m (17,060 ft).

Trekking duration: 6-7hrs, ascent 350m.

Accommodation: T-house.

Day 16: Amphu Lapcha La base camp [5,527m/18,133ft], 6hrs.

After a few minutes of trekking on a rugged trail, we finally reach Minbo La Pass track. As we take in the breathtaking views of the glacier lakes reflecting the surrounding mountains, we continue our journey towards our destination for the day, which is the Amphu Lapcha La base camp. Behind us, the spectacular Chamlang Himal stands tall, while in front of us, the vast Hinku glacier stretches out with views of Lhotse, Kali Himal, and Baruntse. It feels as though these mountains are welcoming us on our adventure. Despite the challenging terrain, the day's trek is well worth it for the never-before-seen views. We leave the Hinku lakes behind and make our way through the moraines of the massif, following the edge of the Hinku glacier towards the Amphu Lapcha base camp. It's a tough day, but the views are beyond our wildest expectations.

Maximum elevation: 5,527m (18,133 ft).

Trekking duration: 6-7hrs, ascent 327m.

Accommodation: T-house.

Day 17: Trek to Amphu Lapcha Pass 4,900m (16,076 ft), 9 to 10hrs.

Today, our trail leads us to the Everest valley. We start early to make our way to the famous and breathtaking Amphu Lapcha Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,845 meters (19,176 ft) along a rocky and icy trail. The pass is notorious for its difficulty and challenges, including huge moraines, steep ice walls, loose rocks, and more. However, reaching the top of Amphu Lapcha offers exhilarating 360-degree aerial views of Chamlang, Makalu, Baruntse, and more. The pass also rewards us with awe-inspiring views of stunning glaciers, lakes, and peaks such as Lhotse, Everest, and Cho Oyu in the distance. After taking in these majestic mountain views, we make our way down a cliff with the help of attached ropes, and eventually arrive at Imja Tsho, where we will spend the night in our tent

Maximum elevation: 4,900m (16,076 ft).

Trekking duration: 8-9hrs, ascent 380m, descent 945m.

Accommodation: Tented camp.

Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with hot drinks.

Day 18: Entirely rest day/ Leisure Day.

Today, we are taking a day off to allow our muscles to recover and prepare for the next leg of our climbing journey. After days of strenuous trekking, we will take a break from the trail and relax at the camp for an entire day.

Day 19: We trek to Imja-Tse (Island) base camp 4,970m (16,305ft), 3hrs.

Today, we will trek a short distance to reach Island Peak Base Camp, which is located just beyond the Imja Tso Lake. It will take us roughly 2-3 hours to get there.

Maximum elevation: 4,970 meters (16,305 ft).

Trekking duration: 3hrs, ascent 240m.

Accommodation: Tented camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with hot drinks.

Day 20: Attempt summit 6,189m (20,305ft), back to Chhukung.

Today is our summit day for Island Peak, which stands at an elevation of 6,189 meters (20,305 ft). We are extremely excited to reach the summit. We will wake up at 1 AM for breakfast and final preparations before departing from the Island Peak Base Camp. After a short walk from the base camp, our trek begins with a climb up a rugged path. After approximately two hours of climbing, we will encounter rock slabs before reaching the crampon point.

Our route will then take us through permanent snowfields and crevasses, posing several challenging obstacles to navigate. We will continue onwards, ascending a slope with an incline of 75 to 85 degrees, as well as a sharp ridge. Throughout the climb, we will rely on a fixed-line rope for support. Upon reaching the summit, we will be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree mountain views, including Lhotse, Lhotse Middle, Lhotse-Sar, Makalu, Barunche, Amphu Peak, Ama Dablam, and picturesque vistas of Dingboche, Tengboche, and Khumjung down the valley.

After a few minutes of celebrating our once-in-a-lifetime climbing experience, exchanging cheers, and capturing memorable photos on the summit, we will descend back to Chhukung via the Base Camp. This will conclude our remarkable climbing journey with beautiful memories.

Day 21: Contingency day.

Today is a reserve day in case the planned summit day of Island Peak (6,189 meters) is impacted by unfavorable weather. As there is no guarantee of good weather on our planned day 14, we are keeping a day off as a contingency plan to ensure that we can make up for any delays in our schedule.

Day 22: Trek to Tengboche monastery 3,860m, (12,664 ft).

Today, after a successful climb, we will trek down to the Tengboche Monastery. This journey is expected to take approximately 5 to 7 hours, and we will be hiking past Sherpa villages, mani walls, gompas, bridges, lodges, and a rhododendron forest. Throughout our descent, we will have the opportunity to admire the stunning views of Mount Everest and Ama Dablam, and immerse ourselves in the local culture by interacting with the Sherpas.

Maximum elevation 3,860 meters (12,664ft).

Trekking duration: 7hrs, descent 870m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with hot drinks.

Day 23: Trek back to Namche 3,440 meters, (11,286 ft)

Today, we will retrace our steps back to Namche along the same trail. Throughout the trek, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent views once again. After approximately 4 hours of trekking, both uphill and downhill, we will arrive in Namche.

Day 24: Namche Bazaar - Lukla 2,860m (9,175 ft), 7-8 hrs.

Today, we will retrace our steps back to the starting point of our journey in Lukla. This will take approximately 8 hours of trekking, mostly consisting of a descent, with some gradual uphill sections along the way. We will pass by the confluence of the Dudh Koshi River and Bhote Koshi River and many vibrant Sherpa villages. Today, we will hold a dinner party to celebrate the successful completion of our trip.

Elevation: 2,860 meters, (9,383 ft).

Trekking hours: 8hrs, 960m descent, 250m ascent.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D with hot drinks.

Day 25: Fly to Ramechhap airport and drive back to Kathmandu hotel 1,350 m, (4,429 ft) 7hrs.

After an unforgettable journey, we'll fly to Ramechhap and drive back to Kathmandu. To celebrate the trip, we'll have a farewell dinner in this evening at a Nepali cultural restaurant, complete with traditional dance

Day 26: Valley sightseeing.

We'll tour UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, including Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Patan Durbar Square, and Boudhanath. Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath are religious shrines revered by Hindus and Buddhists. Boudhanath also showcases the religious and cultural diversity of Nepal. Additionally, we'll visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square, two royal palaces with historical significance and monuments. Return back to the hotel and overnight stay.

Transportation: Tourist Bus.

Permits: Entry Permits of Patan, Bhaktapur, and Kathmandu.

Accommodation: 3 Stars standard of hotel.

Meals: Farewell Dinner and Breakfast.

Day 27: Finally, departure.

We'll drop you off at Tribhuvan International airport and say goodbye as you head home

Note: - that the outlined itinerary is designed for those who prefer a full package service. However, we understand that preferences and time constraints may vary, so we offer the flexibility to customize the itinerary according to your needs. The selection of itineraries and staff will be based on your specific requirements and budget. Additionally, we have options available for partial visits to accommodate your preferences and financial situation.