Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass - 21 Days

Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass - 21 Days
Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass - 21 Days
Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass - 21 Days
At a Glance
Duration21 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude6,476/21,247ft at Mera Peak
Group Size2-10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleClimbing
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass is an exhilarating adventure in the center of the Himalayas that explores one of the virgin Himalayan valleys of the Everest region, Hinku, to the fullest. This 21-day Himalayan journey is a combination of trekking and climbing, blending the high altitude and challenging mountaineering meticulously, making it a perfect destination for real adventurers seeking a wilder, off-beaten track than the regular ones, reaching a high altitude of 6,476 m at Mera Peak and 6,165 m at Island Peak.

Astonishingly, Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in the Nepalese Himalayas and has unparalleled panoramic views of some of the world's tallest, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Climbing through it is technically straightforward, requiring a good level of physical fitness and mental resilience along with acclimatization to overcome the hurdles of the high altitudes. Island Peak, at an altitude of 6,165 m/20,305 ft, is also known as Imja Tse and is popular for its challenging icey and rugged faces alongside steep glaciers requiring the use of crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes.

This combined expedition involves making your way through dense forests, a scenic traditional village majorly inhabited by Sherpa people, and finally conquering the stunning snow-clad peaks that let you embrace the intimate beauty of the Himalayas, pushing your limits to create the memory of a lifetime. The high-altitude mountain pass of Ama Lapcha Pass, at an altitude of 5,845 m, serves as the gateway between the Khumbu and Honku Valleys.

Further, the iconic largest and oldest religious monasteries of the Everest region, Tengboche (3,860 m) and Pangboche (3,985 m) add much to the spiritual setting amidst the tranquil surroundings with a mythical mountain as a backdrop. Hence, the Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing is a thrilling Himalayan Odyssey in the Everest/Khumbu region of northeastern Nepal, which is also home to a natural UNESCO World Heritage Site named after the local name of the highest mountain giant on earth, Mt. Everest/Sagarmatha.

Highlights

  • An amazingly adventurous flyover to one of the airports at the highest altitude in Lukla, called Tenzing Hillary Airport, at an altitude of 2,846 m.
  • Traverse through the remote Hinku and Khumbu valleys within the Everest Trekking region, showcasing the typical unspoiled Himalayan lifestyle, culture, customs, and traditions.
  • An opportunity to get insight into the unique lives of the Sherpa people.
  • Summit two of the popular climbing peaks of the Everest Himalayas: Mera Peak (6,476 m) and Island Peak (6,189 m), with the majestic sights of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Kanchenjunga, Ama Dablam, and others.
  • Cross the awe-inspiring Ama Lapcha Pass, a part of the Great Himalayan Trekking Trail that connects the Khumbu Valley and the Hinku.
  • Navigate through the high-altitude glaciers, icefalls, and crevasses, adding much to the chilling experience of the technical climbing along the Imja Khola and Dudh Koshi Rivers.
  • Enjoy the optional hike to Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and other notable viewpoints of the Everest Trekking region that come with getting to camp in the wilderness at high camps, etc.

What is so special about Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass?

Climbing Mera Peak and Island Peak via the Ama Lapcha Pass promises a challenging yet incredibly enriching experience, offering a unique blend of adventure—getting to scale two of the notable Everest Himalayas—and the natural beauty and cultural immersion of the hidden valleys and the southern side of Mt. Everest.

This Himalayan odyssey typically takes hikers, trekkers, and climbers to the remote corners of the eastern Khumbu/Everest region in the promenade of Baruntese Himal and Mt. Kalu, and over one of the high mountain passes, Ama Lapcha Pass, above 4,000 from sea level, rewarding with jaw-dropping Himalayan scenery and cultural exploration to expect:

An enlightening look out at the climbing community of Nepal, Sherpa people

Like any other trekking, hiking, and climbing routes in the Everest Himalayas of Nepal, an extraordinarily adventurous journey to summit Mera and Island Peaks also makes its way through one of the UNESCO world’s heritage sites of the country called Sagarmatha National Park, home to a wide array of flora and fauna along with several ethnic communities, including Sherpas.

Sherpas are the natives of the Himalayan regions of Nepal who hold a special place in the world of mountaineering with their deep-rooted knowledge of mountains and years of expertise in the field, alongside their superhuman adaptability to the comparatively arduous Himalayan surroundings far away from the crowds and chaos of modern life, showing a huge contrast to your day-to-day valleys and cities filled with modern amenities.

Besides having possessed a unique understanding of mountain terrain, weather patterns, and routes, Sherpas are active practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism intertwined into daily life who treasure mountains, hills, and nature as deities protecting them, and hence they perform various rituals and rites before, during, and after the Himalayan voyage to seek blessing and convey thank you for ensuring safety.

Further, Sherpas have distinctive cultural attire, festivals, celebrations, traditions, customs, dialects, and ways of life, mostly still engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry to enjoy to the fullest while you head forward to the summit of Mera and Island Peak, spending several days in tea houses and local lodges opened by these Himalayan locals who are happy to welcome you and share their centuries-preserved culture and traditions that have an uncanny genuine connection to Mother Nature.

Get to experience the remote and pristine trekking routes of the Everest region, combining the Hinku Valley and Khumbu Valley

During the Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing Trekkers and climbers enter the Hinku Valley to the east of the Khumbu Valley, separated by the Mera Ridge itself in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal within the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is relatively sees fewer expeditors throughout the year in comparison to the Khumbu Valley that comes under the classic Himalayan route to the Everest Base Camp and other longer combined longer days voyages such as the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek with Two High Passes Trek, Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Odyssey with Three High Passes, and others.

The Hinku Valley is surrounded by some of the prominent peaks, including Mera Peak (6,476 m), Chamlang (7,319 m), and others; hence, on the way to Mera Peak and Island Peak, it offers a more tranquil ambiance, a true paradise for authentic experience seekers in the Himalayas that many of the trails might have long lost due to the rapidly increasing commercialization of the routes over the years.

Both of these valleys are dotted with serene turquoise glacial lakes, including Dudh Pokhari and Sabai Tsho, adding much to the scenic charm of the trek, including the virgin lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and juniper, which provide a colorful contrast to the towering peaks above, crafting dramatic backdrops on the overall untouched natural beauty of the Everest region on the way to the Mera Peak and Island Peak.

Experience Camping amongst the starry sky and snow-clad mountain ranges

Although most of the trekking nights to climb the Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass are spent in well-established tea houses and locally available lodges, in a few sections, especially at the start of the climbing session, you will get to relish the first-hand experience of camping, the traditional accommodation of an ancient trek, and the mountaineering journey at a high altitude with minimal light pollution where the stars, constellations, and moon appear to be closer and brighter.

The silence of the mountains at night in the Mera High Camp and Island Peak Camp is profound. Bathed in a soft, ethereal glow reflecting the moonlight, it creates an otherworldly magical, and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect destination to set a campfire, gather around, and share your stories and journey with your fellow travelers, trekkers, climbers, and guides, forging an unbreakable bond to remember for life.

The Dare Devils Paradise, Mera Peak, Ama Lapcha Pass, and Island Peak

The Himalayan expedition to climb Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass no wonder involves summiting Mera Peak at first at an altitude of 6,476 m/21,247 ft, which is a relatively non-technical yet demanding to ascend in the remote Hinku Valleys, passing through thicket forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude glaciers, and rewarding you with at least views of five of the eight thousanders of the world, such as Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga.

While connecting the Hinku Valley to the Imja Valley in the Khumbu region, from Mera Peak to Island Peak, the Ama Lapcha Pass, often referred to as Amphu Lapcha Pass, is an ultimate challenging and technical endeavor at an altitude of approximately 5,845 m/19,177 ft. Passing through here includes an encounter with steep ascents and descents, and navigating through crevasses and icefalls where it might be necessary to use ropes and technical gear on a remote and less traveled route, providing a real sense of adventure and exploration amidst the Himalayas.

However, on making it through the pass, you will be granted everlasting views of towering peaks, including those of Everest, Lhotse, and Baruntse, alongside the glacial landscapes of the Hinku and Imja Vallyes, rich in lush forests and charming villages. Similarly, the journey to Imja Tse/Island Peak, standing at 6,189 m/20,305 ft above sea level, also involves crossing glaciers, climbing ice walls, and negotiating crevasses. It is a more technical climbing experience compared to Mera Peak, which offers more refined views of the surrounding peaks such as Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu.

For this section of the voyage to climb the Island Peak, trekkers, climbers, and expeditors hence must be well aware of the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and altitude sickness alongside basic mountaineering skills, which nonetheless is worth a shot, making it a must-add to your bucket list trip to take yourself in the holidays, including those in 2024 and 2025.

Embracement of the top of the world from close and the astonishing heavenly sunrise

The climbing journey to the Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass is also noted for its several highly elevated vantage points from where the highest mountain on the planet, Mt. Everest, and other surrounding Himalayan ranges appear to be out of the world, particularly during the sunrise and sunset, which display the changing colors of the light, mostly filled with the golden hue in the stark contrast of completely whitewashed mountain peaks.

Panggom, Khare, Khote, Chhukung, Mera High Camp, Ama Lapcha Base Camp, Island Base Camp, and the Ama Lapcha Pass itself are some of the major viewpoints worth noting during the climbing expedition to Mera Peak and Island Peak, which have scenery that resembles heaven if you have ever crossed your mind with more expansive views of the iconic Himalayas.

Why is a 21-day itinerary the best route for the combined climbing pilgrimage to the Mera Peak and Island Peak?

Although multiple itineraries can be set for the Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass, which also has several routes, the 21-day one is considered optimal, offering balanced day-to-day ensuring ample acclimatization and reducing the risk of altitude sickness, a common concern in the higher Himalayan odyssey, allowing adequate rest and recovery between the trekking days and climbing journeys that also lets you maintain your walking pace right from the starting point, Paiya.

This 21-day time frame also accommodates gradual ascents without rushing the steps through harmoniously diverse Himalayan landscapes, from the remote Hinku Valley, moderate Mera Peak, to the technical Ama Lapcha Pass, allocating buffer days in key locations like Khare, which in addition offers you enough time to make the most of the cultural and scenic highlights of the Everest region, including visits to Sherpa villages such as Pangboche, Namche, and others culminating in achievable summits of both Mera and Island Peaks without unnecessary hassles.

Further, this 21-day itinerary and route for climbing Mera Peak and Island Peak can be customized as per the needs, preferences, and time constraints of trekkers, mountaineers, campers, backpackers, climbers, and visitors. Contact us now for your tailored Himalayan journeys in Nepal, whether to Tsum Valley, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley, or a climbing voyage to Mera Peak alone or combined with Island Peak.

21 Days Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing Cost for 2024 and 2025

Yes, the overall cost for Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing can show a significant fluctuation based on the overall size of your mountaineering group, the level and type of services you have chosen, and the season of your expedition as well. You will be delighted to know that Ammonite Adventures and Treks Pvt. Ltd., based in the center of the country, Kathmandu, provides you with an international level of services in every Himalayan jaunting, tour, travel, trek, and climbing you do with us, including the Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing, which can cost you anywhere from USD 3,500 to USD 5,500 per person for the years 2024 and 2025.

This comprehensive trekking and climbing package generally covers the expenses of permits, domestic flights (Kathmandu to Lukla and return), accommodation (both lodging and camping), meals, professional government-licensed guides, and their basic necessities. Learn more in our cost details section.

Itinerary

Welcome to the Himalayan country of Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will receive a warm greeting from our representative, who will also transfer you to your respective hotel!

Today, you will also have the opportunity to meet your team and mountain guide over dinner and have all your queries answered, which could be regarding gear, packing, trekking equipment, and others. Do not hesitate; guides are happy to help you and answer your questions.

Max. Altitude: 1,400mMeal: DinnerAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel

You will depart really early for the domestic flight to Lukla from Kathmandu, which spans approximately 25–40 minutes with gorgeous aerial views of natural landscapes, roaring rivers, hills, mountains, and traditional villages.

On reaching Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla, the second section of the trip of the day begins to arrive at the destination of the day, Paiya (2,730 m), which follows the opposite of the trail to the Everest Base Camp that crosses several small streams, tranquil Buddhist monasteries, and lush, dense woodland towards Makalu Barun Conservation Area.

Max. Altitude: 2,800m / 9,186 ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The traversing begins early this day as well; it initially descends gently through dense forests, crosses the Dudh Koshi River over the suspension bridge, and continues uphill and downhill, gradually ascending to the Kari La Pass, which has stunning views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and Himalayas, including that of the Dudh Kunda Himal.

After the pass, you will eventually descend to Panggom, a tiny yet beautiful Sherpa village, while walking through the lovely forests of rhododendrons and bamboo.

Max. Altitude: 2,846mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The footwalk continues through the rugged trail, passing by a dense forest of rhododendrons one more time along the hills and ridges, with an amazing view of Mera Peak’s south face as you ascend steeply by Panggom La Pass, which descends directly to Ningsow for overnight.

The trail to reach here can be typically narrow, slippery, and filled with terraced farms and fields, adding much to the scenery, and finally arriving at one of the Hinku Valleys, Ningsow.

Max. Altitude: 2,863mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The trail is part of the Broder Mera Peak and Island Peak climbing expedition that has a perfect combination of demanding ascents, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritages as you move through forests, streams, and stone caves that continue through the complete wilderness passing by Ramailo Danda until you arrive at Chhatra Khola for the night.

Max. Altitude: 2,863mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The trek to Kothe begins as usual after a hearty breakfast, which at first follows the Hinku River, entering into the deep, lush forests with the potential encounter a wide array of flora and fauna, including sloth bears, jungle cats, and red pandas.

On the way, you will cross several suspension bridges and ascend through scenic forests of pine, bamboo, and rhododendron, passing through Tashing Ongma to take a short break before finally making a steep ascent to Kothe overnight.

Max. Altitude: 3,691mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

It is a short footwalk as there is a notable gain in overall altitude, so you will hike slowly and steadily along the ridge of the Hinku River in the Khumbu region of Nepal as you encounter Mani walls, prayer flags, and the religious Lungsumba Gompa dating centuries back along the trail.

The journey continues along the glacial valley with everlasting views of the neighboring peaks and glaciers, such as Mera Peak, with a noticeable change in vegetation, reaching Thanak, a seasonal village.

Max. Altitude: 4,358mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The trek takes you closer to the high-altitude environment of Mera Peak, the journey from Thaknak to Khare, is about 5–6 hours along the spectacular views of Dig Glacier, Hinku Nup Glacier, and Shar Glacier through mountains and high-altitude rugged terrain.

Crossing these mountains can be tricky through steep ascents, which are equally rewarding, including those of the Charpate Himal, the North Face of Mera Peak, and others.

Max. Altitude: 5,000mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

It is crucial that your body adapt well to high altitude areas at low oxygen levels; hence, this day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization, for which you will engage yourself in hiking to the nearby vantage points to admire the panoramic sights of the nearby hills and snow-clad peaks early in the morning.

In your spare time in the afternoon, you can practice climbing and use the essential climbing gear and equipment, such as harnesses, jumars, ice axes, and carabiners, after enjoying lunch at Sabai Tso, a glacial lake, and spend the second night at Khare, in a mountain lodge.

Max. Altitude: 5,000mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

You will hike across Mera La Pass, which only lasts for a short time, starting with a gradual ascent to the Mera Glacier, which is steep in the beginning but eases out after a while, leading you to the Mera Base Camp to rest for the night.

From Mera Base Camp, you will be granted the never-before-seen gorgeous sights of five of the world’s highest peaks, including Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m), granting you a first-class mountaineering experience climbing through moraine and boulder fields.

Max. Altitude: 5,780mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tented-Camp

It is your much-awaited day when you will arrive at Mera Peak, one of the ultimate destinations among the two; therefore, you will begin early in the morning, even before dawn.

 

In about four hours, you would have already made it to the south summit of Mera Peak, filling you with a constant sense of achievement and adventure to descend to Khongma Dingma for the night gradually.

Max. Altitude: 6,476mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tented-Camp

Though the vegetation from Khongma Dingma thins out, mostly alpine species, the scenery is still mesmerizing walking past the yak pastures flanked by towering snow-capped peaks, including those of Everest, Makalu, and Baruntse, that ascend sharply to Seto Pokhari, one of the notable divine lakes of the Everest region, passing making way through rocky and uneven paths to spend the night at a tent in Seto Pokhari lastly.

Max. Altitude: 6,476mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The Ama Lapcha Pass is one of the most enthralling passes in the Everest Himalayas, in the Khumbu region of Nepal, for which you will hike through the Honku Valley along the remote and comparatively rugged parts with an epic sight of the hanging glaciers of Chamlang and the Honku Basin.

En route, it might be essential to use fixed ropes and other climbing equipment to navigate the tricky terrain to Ama Lapcha Pass, with one of the most rewarding sights of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and others along the way.

Max. Altitude: 5,700mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tented-Camp

The trek from here onward is along the Imja Khola, Glacier, and Valley, just below the Ama Lapcha Base Camp. The trails are quite steep, and although they begin with a gentle climb, they still require the use of fixed ropes, with one of the best views of Everest, Lhotse, Chamlang, and Mera Peak along the way to Chhukung, your destination for the day.

Max. Altitude: 5,700mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

On this trekking day, relishing the best alpine scenery, you will continue the journey along the Imja Khola heading north, taking a twist at the Lhotse glacier. You will leave the Chukung behind and reach the Island Peak Base Camp, marking your closeness to yet another glorious climbing peak of the Everest region, Island Peak.

On following the easter end of the lake encountered in between, you would have made it to the base camp of the island for a thrilling night at the tented camp. On reaching here, you can check the condition of your climbing gear and do some preparation for the upcoming jaunt.

Max. Altitude: 4,790mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tented-Camp

Making it to the top of the Island Peak is a significant achievement, which is a testament for adventurers not only physically but also mentally, requiring proper preparation, pacing, and acclimatization to climb through rocky paths, ridges, scramble over boulders, and a high camp consisting of glaciers, crevasses, and headwalls.

From the top of Island Peak, witnessing the breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the top of the world, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu, and capturing them in your memories and lenses, you will retrace the trail back to base camp.

Max. Altitude: 6,165mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The hike onwards from Island Peak Base Camp after summiting the peak denotes the beginning of the returning journey to Kathmandu, which is mostly descending from Base Camp and directly takes you to Pangboche, named after the oldest religious monastery in the region, following the wide valley of Khumbu Khola, passing via Orsho and Shomare.

Max. Altitude: 4,790mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

You will walk across the Imja River Valleys one more time after filling breakfast, descending to Tengboche monastery at first, then entering the dense forests of pine, rhododendron, and oak, crossing suspension bridges back and forth, reaching Sansa, stopping at Namche for the night to celebrate your victory with good bakery, restaurants, cafes, and pubs that cater to your various taste buds and preferences.

Max. Altitude: 4,790mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

It is your last trek day as you head to Lukla to catch the flight to Kathmandu the very next day. The trail observes a steep descent that slowly changes into a flat and balanced rocky terrain until arriving at a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, from which there is an open plain filled with forests of rhododendrons with glimpses of snow-capped peaks walking past the villages of Monjo and Phakding before making it to Lukla to spend the night at one of the nearby teahouses.

Max. Altitude: 3,440mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House

The time has come to bid your farewell to the sky-towering snow-clad Himalayan peaks, lush hills, and the infamous Everest region as you board a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla. It will be awesome to get across the previous aerial views one more time, reminiscing about all those unforgettable memories you have collected during the Himalayan expedition to Mera Peak and Island Peak.

Max. Altitude: 2,860mMeal: Breakfast-DinnerAccommodation: Standard-Hotel

The climbing voyage to the Mera Peak and Island Peak concludes with a fly-over to your home country from Nepal, where our airport representative will transfer you to the TIA three hours earlier than your scheduled flight, or you can choose to take yourself on yet another memorable Himalayan journey, such as to the Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Tsum Valley Tour, and others.

Meal: Breakfast
Customize Trip
Trip Service Details
Included
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in the hustling and bustling capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu.
  • Two nights in a standard hotel in Kathmandu, as per your itinerary.
  • Comfortable tea house and local lodges during the trek and climbing days.
  • Domestic flight fees to and from Lukla, including airport taxes.
  • All three standard meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the trekking and climbing days.
  • Trekking map and a government-licensed, professional mountain guide, including their meals, lodging, transportation, and other daily necessities, including trekking and climbing equipment and gear.
  • Travel insurance for all the Nepalese staff.
  • Garbage deposit and other necessary fees related to the trek.
  • Essential Everest Himalayan permits, such as the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit fee, and the Mera Peak and Island Climbing Permit.
Excluded
  • International flight and visa fees to and from Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance for trekkers and climbers must cover emergency high-altitude helicopter rescue and evacuation.
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and extra-night accommodations in Kathmandu before and after the journey are not included in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses such as snacks, charging devices, boiled water, WiFi, drinks, shopping, phone calls, and internet data expenses during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • One porter can be shared between two trekkers who can carry a maximum weight of 25 kg combined.
  • Hardworking guides and Porter's tips are much appreciated.
Additional Info

Is autumn the only favorable time for climbing Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass?

Undoubtedly, autumn is taken into consideration as the most suitable for climbing Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass for its stable weather conditions and exceptionally clear skies, resulting in excellent visibility with moderate temperatures; however, it is not the only convenient season.

The spring season is also noted for its mild and pleasant weather conditions, followed by the full bloom of rhododendron, adding much to the scenic beauty of the Everest region and top-notch mountain views with longer trekking days while with proper preparation, appropriate packing, and trustworthy company such as Ammonite Adventures and Treks. Every season, including summer, monsoon, and winter, the Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass are achievable, unveiling the unique beauty of the region and the trails in every step.

Do you need permits for a climbing tour to Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Peak?

Yes, you will have to obtain at least three of the essential permits for taking yourself on the climbing journey to Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Peak, which are the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, the Sagarmatha National Park, and the climbing permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA).

Generally, the Sagarmatha National Park entrance permit costs NPR 3,000, approximately USD 30 per person; the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit costs NPR 2,000 (USD 20) throughout the year, while that of the climbing permit can vary, which is usually USD 250 during spring (March to May) and USD 125 per person during autumn (September to November); the peak trekking and climbing season in Nepal costs just USD 70 per person in winter and summer, the typical off-seasons for Himalayan expeditions.

These permit fees are usually well covered when purchasing one of the trekking and climbing packages from one of the reputed leading travel and trekking operators, such as Ammonite Adventures and Treks Pvt. Ltd.

What are food, accommodation, communication, and charging devices like en route to Mera Peak and Island Peak?

En route to climb Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass, food, accommodation, and other modern amenities may vary depending on the route and elevation, where the choice can get limited at higher altitudes. Commonly, most of the nights you will get to spend at the comfortable mountain lodges called tea houses that also serve daily meals.

In addition, these tea houses and local lodges also offer services like wifi and charging devices, usually at some additional cost that you might get as a complement only in the lower region, which can get basic due to the remote and high altitude nature of the region, which in total ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience amidst the mind-blowing Himalayan landscapes. Last but not least, for better communication, it would be wise to purchase local NTC and Ncell SIM cards and data packages, followed by carrying spare batteries or power banks for your electronic devices.

How difficult is the Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass?

The Climbing Himalayan alpine jaunting to Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass is considered a moderate-to-strength, challenging expedition that includes trekking through remote and rugged terrain before the final ascent to Mera Peak, which requires basic mountaineering skills such as crampons and ice axes.

Thereafter, the traverse to Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass includes making way through steep uphills, crevasses, and ice fields, which is more of a technical approach involving the use of fixed ropes on the steep snowy, and icy slopes. The pass itself requires crossing glaciers, exposing you to objective hazards like avalanches and crevasses conquering through, which grants you a profound sense of achievement and adventure, rewarding you with the ethereal sights of the surrounding snow-washed peaks perched up in the sky, often regarded as the gateway to paradise itself.

Why hire mountain guides and porters for Mera Peak and Island Peak Climbing via Ama Lapcha Pass?

Along with the banning of free individual trekkers (FITS) in Nepal from April 1st, 2023, with the necessity of being under the supervision of at least professional guides, the guides, and porters are an integral part of enhancing climbing and trekking experiences in the Nepalese Himalayas, including those to the Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass.

Here are the top five reasons to be in the company of guides and porters:

  • The guides' local knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, campsite, and the best routes to take significantly enhances safety and navigation during the voyage.
  • Usually, guides are trained in mountain rescue and first aid, providing you with support in case of any sort of emergency.
  • Guides and porters are capable of handling crucial trekking and climbing logistics like permits, accommodations, and meals effortlessly, allowing you to focus more on your goals and niche of interest.
  • Local mountain guides and porters provide you with valuable insight into the local culture, traditions, and customs, while they also fill the language barriers and allow deeper cultural interactions and engagement.
  • Porters, on the other hand, carry heavy equipment, gear, and supplies for you, easing the burdens for you so you get the best out of the best, and many more.
FAQs

Basically, the climbing voyage to Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass is considered ideal for mountaineers, climbers, and trekkers with some prior experience; however, it is equally happening for individuals with notable physical fitness who are properly prepared, packed, geared, and equipped.

While water from natural sources such as rivers, streams, lakes, and waterfalls might seem clear and drinkable, there are high chances of it being contaminated as well; hence, it is advisable to purify it before consuming it directly, or you can get refiling of lukewarm boiled water in teahouses at various stopping places.

The key to a successful ascent to Mera Peak and Island Peak via Ama Lapcha Pass is light but appropriate packing, as it allows for easier and faster movement even in high altitude, while the essential gear ensures you make it through there safely and soundly, giving you the flexibility to adapt to changing weather and trail conditions that also helps to promise manageable loads to the porter.

As the Mera Peak and Island Peak climb via Ama Lapcha Pass, which includes alpine rambling above 3,000 m for several days, there is a high risk of acute mountain sickness that can be overcome easily with profound acclimatization, hydration, and nutrients.

Taking care of periods en route to the Mera Peak and Island Peak climbing via Amphu Lapcah Pass can be easier and more eco-friendly by getting hands-on reusable cotton pads along with wet wipes, hand sanitizers, and biodegradable soaps.