Island and Mera Peak Climbing with EBC

Arriving in Kathmandu offers a remarkable experience as the majestic Himalaya unfolds before your eyes. The passage of time is swift when seeing the breathtaking vistas of the magnificent Himalayan ranges, including the world's tallest summit, Mount Everest, throughout this journey. The aircraft will arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) at an altitude of 1350m. at arrival, you will be able to get a Nepal entry visa either in advance or at admission. The visa procedure will take place in Kathmandu. The estimated waiting time for TIA is around 45 minutes, however may vary depending on the line size. To get information on the entrance visa for Nepal, it is necessary to visit the official website of the Nepalese government's Department of Immigration Nepal. Upon exiting the gate, you will encounter our business representative who will be carrying a sign with the company name. A company representative greets you by presenting a sacred Tibetan scarf and arranging transportation to the hotel in a private vehicle. The journey from TIA to Thamel typically takes around 30 minutes via transit. The bustling city of Pashupatinath, with its revered Hindu temple, is filled with a diverse array of cars and people, enhancing our adventure with a delightful and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Afterwards, we arrive at the hotel and take some much-needed relaxation. Thamel is replete with a plethora of restaurants, shopping centres, and excellent lodging options. Attend a briefing for the trek and then get an invitation to join a host family for a welcome meal.
[Meals provided: Complimentary beverage upon arrival]
Stay in hotel for one night

We advise you to allocate an additional day in Kathmandu on the second day of the journey. Extended periods of air travel may lead to physical and mental exhaustion. Consequently, it is highly recommended to spend a day in Kathmandu before to embarking on your Himalayas journey in order to adequately prepare for the trip. During the free day in Ktm, you have the option to either relax or make the day more memorable by engaging in various activities. These include taking a sightseeing trip of UNESCO Heritage sites, going on a 1-hour Everest Mountain Flight tour, a 3-hour and 30-minute Everest Helicopter tour, a 1-hour and 30-minute Langtang Helicopter tour, or participating in rock climbing, among other options.
The meals provided are limited to breakfast alone.
Stay in hotel overnight

We arrive at Lukla by way of Manthali. We start our journey by embarking on a breathtaking and expedited mountain flight to Lukla, where we will initiate our trek. Be cautious of the Langtang and Jugal mountains, followed by the Rolwaling Himal, Gaurisankar, and Menlumtse, before finally catching sight of Everest throughout the flight. We will rendezvous with our trekking team at the Lukla airfield, where we will have a few moments to organise our belongings before beginning our journey through the meandering hamlet towards the official starting point of the Khumbu trek. The walk descends gradually over paved stone paths through a dense rhododendron woodland, modest agricultural plots, and both ancient and modern settlements, down to the banks of the turbulent Dudh Koshi River. During our journey, we will encounter several shortstops where we may interact with the people, capture photos, and fully appreciate the picturesque surroundings and fresh mountain air. As we leisurely traverse the undulating path, we will get glimpses of majestic snow-capped peaks towering at an altitude of 6000 metres. As we continue our journey, we encounter the massive Mani stone at Thado Koshi. We then go past the many chortens and prayer wheels of Sano, till we finally reach our target, Phakding. There is no scheduled activity for the afternoon. For those desiring to do so, we will go on a brief excursion to the elevated hamlet and charming little Gompa situated on the edge of the valley. Reconvene for pre-dinner libations around the dining fire, followed by the evening repast.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight

Having breakfast at the lodge, we go on a hike to Namche, along the left bank of the Dudh Koshi River. While traversing the flat route on the right side of the river from the resort, the imposing Thamserku peak, which stands at an elevation of 6623m, rises majestically on the other side of the river. Upon traversing a body of water and ascending the stepped incline from the Dudh Koshi pathway, we reach the location known as Banker. By traversing the forest along the left side of the river, we may reach Chumow, where we have the opportunity to explore the Vegetable Farm. While traversing a terrain characterised by several inclines and declines, you encounter a creek and come across a settlement called Monjo. This village is situated at an elevation of 2840m and is approximately 230m higher than Phakding. We pause to have our midday meal at this location. From Monjo, you will descend stone stairs until you reach a suspension bridge. After a brief ascent, you will arrive to Jorsale. This location serves as the access point to the National Park. As we go by the river, we come over a slope covered in dense forest and proceed past a rough terrain. Upon traversing a steep and meandering trail, we drop to the riverbed and arrive in a valley shaped like the letter V. At this point, the river divides into two branches: the right one is called Dudh Koshi, while the left one is known as Bhote Koshi, which ultimately goes to Nangpa La. After crossing yet another suspension bridge and trekking a few distance next to the Bhote Koshi river, we will climb up to Top Dhara, where we will get our first glimpse of Mount Everest. From this point, we steadily rise to reach Namche Bazaar, which is known as the capital of the Sherpa people.
[Meals provided: breakfast, lunch, supper]
Stay at a teahouse overnight

We ascend to the Sherpa Culture museum, where we encounter exquisite exhibits, photographs, and comprehensive historical context. We continue to climb up to the Everest View Hotel after we visit gorgeous Sherpa hamlet Khumjung and Kunde where we visit the Edmund Hillary hospital, and then we return to Namche via Shyangboche where we enjoy a leisurely day. The walk provides us with magnificent vistas of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, Gang Tega & Taboche, the imposing Nuptse wall, and Lhotse, while to the west and north we can see Kongde Pharchamo, Teng Ragi Tau, Lamuche RI & Pimu. The Dudh Koshi valley is located to the south. The Tenzing Memorial, located outdoors, is adorned with flags and has a picture of the renowned climber. Adjacent to it, there is a board displaying a poem dedicated to Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, written by Ramsey Ullman.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight

From this point, we ascend briefly and traverse the Sagarmatha National Park. The subsequent route offers picturesque views on a gently sloping terrain, requiring a moderate walking distance. The path to Phortse ascends and becomes narrow, running besides an imposing rock formation. The regular trail meanders around a steep cliff and gradually ascends to a prominent white stupa in the horizon, creating an illusion of proximity. Yaks often graze in this area. The trip provides magnificent vistas of Ama Dablam and the concealed peaks of the Hongu valley and Kangtega. The section of the journey that passes through the stupa may be somewhat vexing. The settlement of Phortse is easily seen on the other side of the valley. From this point, we go downwards for a considerable distance till we reach the Dudh Koshi River. The path is enjoyable as it winds through a dense forest, leading to the charming teahouse of Phortse Tenga. Proceeding downwards, we encounter a camp or lodge nestled inside the forest. Continuing on, we come across a wooden bridge that spans the river. Finally, we embark on a brief but steep ascent, leading us to the settlement of Phortse. The Phortse monastery is situated at an elevated position above the hamlet. The settlement is said to be the location where Lama Sangwa Dorje, who is claimed to have taken flight in one tradition, landed. Embarking on a trek via the Phortse Sherpa community is highly recommended.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight

From this point, we ascend the slope, following any serpentine route into the higher section of Phortse, in close proximity to the monastery. The route to Pangboche is absolutely lovely. The walk provides magnificent vistas that are not seen on the normal route from Namche to Pangboche. The path has both ascents and descents, offering introductory views of Thamserku and Kangtega. Upon reaching a cliff, the majestic sight of Ama Dablam becomes fully visible. Proceeding farther, the route passes into a narrow ravine. The trail ascends in a zigzag pattern, with a short but steep incline. It is important to go gradually in order to reach the top, where we will be greeted with magnificent views. Continuing on a little stroll, we arrive to Pangboche, from which we have the option to further expand our journey towards Ama DBC. From this point, we ascend between towering trees in close proximity to the teahouse. The elevation temporarily ascends, then descends and follows a winding path for a duration of 15 minutes. The villages of Somare, situated at an elevation of 1010 metres, and Osho may be reached by a short ascent. We ascend a rather steep slope in order to reach Dingboche. Eventually, the trail reaches a little elevation and we get sight of the settlement we are heading towards, situated at an altitude of 4410m.
The meals provided are inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight

In advance of ascending, it is essential to allocate a day for relaxation and acclimatisation. An excellent choice would be to go on a trek up the valley to Chhukung (4730m) and continue ahead to Island Peak (Imja Tse). Alternatively, you might choose for a shorter trip up to Nangkartshang (5000m). You will have the opportunity to discuss the hiking location with your trip leader during the briefing session that takes place after supper. The day trip provides us with magnificent vistas of the Imja valley, Makalu, Amphu Laptse, and the varied terrains around the valley. Following our return to Dingboche, we will spend the afternoon unwinding and resting.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay in a teahouse for one night.

The path leading to Lobuche departs from Dingboche in a northerly direction, and from the hamlet, it is easily visible as it ascends towards the ridge. From this point, we have clear and impressive vistas ahead, including the adjacent coastal area. A journey of around 3 hours will lead us to Dugla, situated at an elevation of 4620 metres. Our journey starts with a challenging ascent down the slope of the sea, which marks the termination of the expansive Khumbu Glacier. Ascending steadily, the route meanders between stones and reaches the top of the incline, where a cluster of little hillocks can be seen. Here, we will encounter many monuments dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Khumbu region. We cross the often partially frozen river and remain close to the base of the low slopes during our journey to Lobuche. While Lobuche may not be the most captivating place to spend the night, the vistas of Nuptse are undeniably unforgettable.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight

The first hike starts with a gradual ascent, followed by a further hard but brief ascent onto more moraines. The material referred to as "snout detritus" is the debris found at the end of the Changri Nup and Changri Shar glaciers. These glaciers originate from the northern slopes of Pumori, as well as the peaks of Changri and Chumbu. The subsequent path is strewn with big rocks and uneven stones. Traversing this moraine terrain is fatiguing and the wind often carries a biting chill. Continuing on a little stroll leads us to Gorak Shep. Following our midday meal, we go on a journey towards the base of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest. The journey starts among gusty winds and meanders across rocks, rocky formations, and the vast moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, ultimately leading to Everest Base Camp. The landscape has its own dramatic quality, characterised by towering ice spires and majestic ice formations resembling cathedrals. The ice serves as an exceptionally remarkable entrance to any mountain in the Himalaya, a captivating pathway to the sky that is nearly intoxicating. The climb provides exceptional, up-close views of prominent landmarks like as Khumbu Ice Fall, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the mountain range that divides Nepal and Tibet, including Pumori and Marine rocks. Upon completing the overview of vistas, we backtrack to Gorak Shep.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay in a teahouse for one night.

From this point, we cross the desiccated lake and start a difficult ascent towards the lower ridge of Kala Patthar. Everest promptly emerges, providing a significant boost to morale. The hike to Kala Pattar provides breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, the Khumbu Glacier, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Nuptse, Kangtega, and Thamserku. The panoramic views from this site provide a 360-degree perspective. An exquisite, intricate cluster of twisted and intertwined spires and peaks captures one's attention towards the west. When observing towards the east, one can see a dark and rocky area. Specifically, the southwestern face of Mount Everest stands out prominently and captures all the attention. Following the exhilarating ascent and enthusiastic photography at the breathtaking Kala Pattar, it takes only a few effortless minutes to descend to Goraksheep, a journey that can be completed in less than an hour. Following breakfast, we go back to Lobuche at an altitude of 4910m/16108ft.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay in a teahouse for one night.

Starting from Lobuche, we continue along the trail until it reaches the constantly changing path on the other side. After traversing the left side for almost two hours, there is a very inclined path that leads to the summit cairn of Kongma La pass (5535m). From the summit of the pass, we are greeted with a desolate terrain like the moon, with frozen lakes and jagged peaks. In the distance, the landscape descends abruptly into the Khumbu Glacier. The eastern vista towards the majestic Makalu is quite breathtaking, with the towering peaks of Tibet visible to its left. After crossing the pass, we reached a valley with lakes that had distinct markings. We then proceeded to travel past the campsite where the party that climbed Mera Peak (5820m) used to stay. The route continues to the Niyang Khola valley and then descends to the hillside of Bibre. Upon reaching Chhukung, we are greeted with magnificent vistas of Island Peak and the rugged Amphu Lapcha ridge, offering breathtaking views of the valley. And then proceed to descend to Chhukung.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight

Ascending the moderately inclined trail towards the base camp, we proceed in a southern direction while making our way towards the meandering trails under the Lhotse glacier. Upon reaching the base camp, our team will promptly establish the tents, giving us enough opportunity to survey the surrounding area. We will have a comprehensive training session on climbing before to embarking on the significant ascent tomorrow.
The meals provided are inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Camping overnight in a tent

The day will be used to wait for favourable weather conditions in case the weather remains unfavourable when ascending the peak.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Camping overnight in a tent

The day will begin with an exceptionally early start at around 1 am, after a brief meal in the morning. Due to the high afternoon winds, which may impede our ascent to the top, we will begin our activities early today. The route becomes narrower as it ascends the steep slope. While the climb is not very challenging, it is important to use caution while navigating the rough stairs. Our guide will meticulously secure the rope by attaching it to both the main rope and the fix ropes. The top will provide you with a memorable experience as you admire the breathtaking vistas of the expansive Himalayan mountain range. We return to the base camp and thereafter go towards Chukkung.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay in a teahouse for one night.

Today, we will depart from Island Peak Base Camp and proceed along the gently ascending path towards Amphu Lapcha Base Camp (North). The trek we provide provides breathtaking vistas of the Imja valley, with its towering mountains and glaciers. Following many hours of arduous hiking through the challenging alpine flora, we will reach Amphu Lapcha North Base Camp where we will spend the night.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Camping overnight in a tent

Following our morning meal, we gather our equipment and start our hike. We depart from our campground and go along an ascending track that leads to the passage of a technically demanding and arduous alpine pass - Amphu Lapcha La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5845 metres. Due to frequent snowfall and slippery conditions, we cautiously go to the summit of the pass, where we will be rewarded with magnificent vistas of alpine valleys and the surrounding peaks. Starting from the summit of the pass, we will go downwards until we reach our designated campsite at Amphu Lapcha South Base Camp, where we will spend the night.
[Meals provided: breakfast, lunch, and supper]
Stay in a tent overnight

Departing from our tent at Amphu Lapcha South Base Camp, we continue with our hike through the picturesque Honku valley, which provides an authentic experience of untouched mountainous terrain. The path we are on traverses one of the most secluded regions of the Himalayas. We will descend gradually down the Honku valley until we reach Seto Pokhari, where we will camp overnight. Seto Pokhari, in Nepali language, translates to 'White Lake' and is the first lake among a sequence of lakes in the upper Honku Basin.
The meals provided are inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Camping overnight in a tent

Following breakfast, we depart from Seto Pokhari and proceed on our hike, enjoying breathtaking vistas of the towering peaks and picturesque alpine valleys in the vicinity. The path we are following leads straight into the heart of the world's majestic mountains. Following a period of hiking, we will reach the elevated yak grazing areas situated inside a secluded and picturesque valley. We will continue our hike till we reach Kongma Dingma, where we will camp overnight.
The meals provided are inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Camping overnight in a tent

We shall go from Kongma Dingma along the path that progressively ascends towards Mera Glacier. The route ascends sharply as we go towards the summit of the glacier. Eventually, we start our journey over the ice to reach Mera Peak Base Camp. Upon arrival at the campsite, our Sherpa staff will promptly establish the camps and undertake essential arrangements for the subsequent hike towards the high camp, before the ultimate ascent of Mera Peak.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Camping overnight in a tent

After departing from Khare, we shall go towards the base camp of Mera mountain. Our route steadily ascends towards the Mera Glacier. We will ascend sharply towards the summit of the glacier before proceeding horizontally down the glacier to ultimately reach the base camp of Mera mountain. Following the camp, we will progress and traverse the track that ascends over Mera La pass, continuing our walk via rugged and often snow-covered paths until Mera Peak High Camp. The path traverses the concave area and thereafter ascends the terrain to the right of the protrusion, leading to a spacious rocky platform next to the glacier following another cautious trek. Upon reaching the high camp, our team of Sherpas will promptly establish the camps and do essential inspections of our climbing equipment. At the high camp location, we are afforded breathtaking vistas of Everest, Makalu, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Baruntse, and Chamlanag.
The meals provided are inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Camping overnight in a tent

Today serves as a contingency day to account for inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances. Assuming there are no complications, we may use this day to leisurely hike back.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay in a tent overnight

Significant day indeed! We must start our ascent of Mera Peak at the crack of dawn. With the necessary equipment and complete acclimatisation, we begin our journey early in order to reach the peak prior to midday. Powerful gusts of wind occurring after noon might provide challenges in reaching the peak. We shall begin at around 2 am in the morning subsequent to consuming breakfast. We will begin ascending the glacier and go onto a ridge. Under the mentorship of our seasoned mountaineering specialist, we progress towards the pinnacle of Mera Peak.At the summit, we are granted breathtaking vistas of Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Nuptse, and Mt. Chamlang. Upon enjoying a considerable amount of time at the summit, we will go downwards along the same path and return to Khare for our overnight accommodation.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight.

Today, we will begin retracing our path from Khare and walk via Thangnak before progressing towards Kothe.By mostly descending, we will transition from elevated regions to a lush sub-tropical forest teeming with rhododendron, Oak, Pine, and birch trees.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay in a teahouse for one night.

Today, we ascend for around two hours through the verdant woodland on the western side of the Hinku Valley to reach Thuli Kharka. Walking through the red Rhododendron forest with a well-worn route in the Himalayas of Nepal is a pleasant experience. From Thuli Kharka, we can overlook the expansive array of Mera peaks, including Mera North, Mera Central, and Mera South. Stay at Thuli Kharka overnight.
The meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay in a teahouse for one night.

After two hours of hiking from Thuli Kharka, we arrive at Zatrwa La pass. Upon traversing the pass, we are greeted with a spectacular vista of the Lukla valley. Cho Yu, Kongde Peak, Numbur Himal, Kusum Khangru, and several more peaks. We begin our descent from Zatrwa La and continue on a straightforward and effortless path to Chutanga. From there, we go to Lukla settlement, where we end our journey. Tonight, we will have our last meal in the mountains with our team.
The meals provided are inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and supper.
Stay at a teahouse overnight

We will return to Manthali (Ramechhap) airport by air and then go to our hotel in Kathmandu. During this particular time of day, there is a high probability of encountering significant traffic congestion, particularly while entering the city of Kathmandu. As a result, the duration of the journey is expected to be at least 5 hours.
The meals provided are breakfast and lunch.
Stay in hotel for one night

A GTT representative will provide transportation for you to the airport using a private car.
The meal provided is breakfast.