Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, one of our friendly management team members will be there to receive you with a warm welcome. If you are arriving Nepal for the first time, Kathmandu can feel overwhelming at first, the crowds, traffic, and fast-paced hustle might surprise you. But as you begin to explore, you’ll soon discover that beneath the surface lies a city full of rich culture, history, and hidden gems waiting to be appreciated. The blend of ancient temples, colorful markets, and spiritual ambiance makes Kathmandu a unique and unforgettable place. From the airport, we’ll drive you comfortably to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, we will arrange a short briefing to prepare you for your trek. If you arrive in the morning or early afternoon, we’ll organize an orientation meeting in the evening. During this session, our company representative and your guide will give you a final briefing about the trek, answer any questions, and make sure you’re ready for the journey ahead. If your flight arrives later in the day, we’ll hold the briefing the next morning after breakfast or at evening after full-day sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

Day 2: Full-day Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley / Duration: 8-9 hrs

After breakfast, we begin our full-day cultural exploration of Kathmandu. We start with a pleasant 20-minute walk to Basantapur Durbar Square. Although driving is an option, we recommend walking so you can experience the vibrant street life and witness the daily activities of the Newar community—one of the Indigenous groups of the Kathmandu Valley, known for their rich culture, art, and architecture. At Basantapur Durbar Square, we explore the entire palace complex, which is filled with centuries-old temples, courtyards, and historical monuments. One of the highlights here is a visit to the Kumari palace, living goddess worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists. Next, we take a short drive through our private vehicle to Swayambhunath Stupa also known as the Monkey Temple. Situated at top of the hill, this ancient stupa offers a panoramic view of the entire Kathmandu Valley. On clear days, you can even see the distant snowcapped Himalayan peaks. We then head to Boudhanath Stupa, about a 30-minute drive depending on traffic. Boudhanath is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its peaceful atmosphere and vibrant Tibetan Buddhist culture. We enjoy lunch at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the stupa, soaking in the serene energy of the area. Our final stop is Pashupatinath Temple Complex, the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this temple complex is not only a place of worship but also a center for Hindu cremation rituals and spiritual gatherings. After a fulfilling day of sightseeing, we drive back to the hotel to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

Day 3: Drive to Phaplu (2,413m) / Duration: 8–10 hours

We start our day early with a long but scenic drive to Phaplu by our private vehicle. The journey takes us away from the busy city and into the peaceful countryside of Nepal. As we travel through winding roads, we are greeted by beautiful views of green hills, terraced farmlands, deep valleys, and charming villages. The drive offers a wonderful chance to experience rural life, with occasional glimpses of locals working in the fields or walking along the roadside. We stop at a few places along the way for tea, meals, and short breaks to stretch our legs. Some sections of the road are rough and bumpy, especially as we get closer to the mountains, but the stunning scenery keeps our spirits high. Phaplu is a quiet and peaceful town in the Solu region, surrounded by fresh mountain air and lovely landscapes. It is a great place to start our trek slowly and adjust to the altitude. After about 10 hours of driving, we reach Phaplu.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 4: Trek to Taksindo (2,930m) / Duration: 5–6 hours

After breakfast in Phaplu, we begin our trek towards the peaceful village of Taksindo. The trail climbs gently through beautiful forests, terraced fields, and small Sherpa villages. As we walk higher, the air becomes fresher, and the views of the surrounding hills and mountains become more open and clear. We pass through the lovely village of Ringmo, which is known for its apple orchards and welcoming locals. This is a nice place to take a short break or enjoy lunch. From here, the trail continues gradually uphill through pine and rhododendron forests. We may see yaks grazing in the fields and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Before reaching the village, we cross Taksindo La, a small mountain pass that offers wonderful views of the surrounding region. After about 5-6 hours of walking, we reach Taksindo, a quiet village with a monastery and traditional houses.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 5: Trek to Kharikhola via Nunthala (2,070m) / Duration: 6–7 hours

After breakfast in Taksindo, we begin our trek by heading downhill toward the village of Nunthala. The trail descends through forests of pine and rhododendron, offering peaceful surroundings and fresh mountain air. Along the way, we pass traditional Sherpa homes, prayer flags, and small fields where locals grow crops. After about 2 hours of descent, we reach Nunthala, a charming village with a lively atmosphere. It’s a good place to take a short rest or enjoy some tea. From here, the trail continues downhill through terraced farmland and quiet hillsides until we reach the Dudh Koshi River. After crossing a suspension bridge over the river, the path begins to climb again through scattered villages and cultivated land. We pass through several small settlements where we can see daily village life and their routines. The final stretch includes a gradual uphill walk before we arrive in Kharikhola. This large village is home to both Sherpa and Rai communities and sits peacefully among green hills. After about 6 to 7 hours of trekking, we reach Kharikhola.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 6: Trek to Pangkongma (2,850m) / Duration: 6–7 hours

After breakfast in Kharikhola, we begin our trek to the charming Sherpa village of Pangkongma. The trail starts with a gentle descent through terraced fields and small village paths. We soon reach a long suspension bridge, which we cross to begin the steady uphill climb on the other side. As we ascend, the landscape changes into thick forests of rhododendron and pine. The trail winds through peaceful nature, with birdsong and occasional mountain views keeping us company. We also pass scattered houses, chortens, and mani walls along the way, giving us a glimpse into local culture and traditions. This part of the trek is quieter and less crowded, allowing us to enjoy the beauty of the Solu region in peace. The final stretch involves a moderate climb before we reach Pangkongma, a lovely village surrounded by hills and fields. After about 6 to 7 hours of trekking, we reach Pangkongma.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 7: Trek to Ning So (3,180m) / Duration: 5–6 hours

From Pangkongma, we begin our trek to Ning So, a peaceful village nestled higher in the mountains. The trail gradually climbs through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, surrounded by fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature. Along the way, we pass small farms, prayer flags, and traditional mani walls that reflect the local culture and spirituality. As we ascend, the views of distant snow-capped peaks and rolling hills become more impressive. The path is well-marked and mostly gentle, with some steeper sections toward the end. Ning So is a quiet village with traditional houses and welcoming locals. After about 5 to 6 hours of trekking, we reach Ning So and enjoy the calm mountain atmosphere.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 8: Trek to Jungle Camp (3,160m) / Duration: 5–6 hours

After breakfast in Ning So, we begin our trek to Jungle Camp. The trail starts with a short descent and then climbs gradually through dense forests filled with pine, oak, and rhododendron trees. This section of the trail is part of the peaceful and less-traveled route inside the Makalu Barun National Park. As we walk deeper into the forest, the surroundings become quiet and serene, with only the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. We may also spot some wildlife, such as Himalayan langurs or colorful birds. The trail includes both uphill and downhill sections, with a few steep parts that require steady walking. There are no permanent villages along this stretch, which gives it a true wilderness feel. Jungle Camp is a simple campsite area in the middle of the forest, used by trekkers on the way to higher elevations. After about 5 to 6 hours of trekking through the heart of nature, we reach Jungle Camp.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 9: Trek to Kothe (3,580m) / Duration: 5–6 hours

Today we continue our journey from Jungle Camp to Kothe, following a peaceful and remote trail through the heart of Makalu Barun National Park. The trail winds gently through dense forests filled with rhododendron, bamboo, and tall pine trees. The sounds of nature surround us—birds chirping, rustling leaves, and the occasional hum of forest insects. We follow a mix of gradual climbs and gentle descents as we move deeper into the wild Himalayan landscape. There are no villages along this route, only temporary rest points sometimes used by herders or other trekkers. The quiet atmosphere and untouched environment give a true sense of adventure. As we gain altitude, the forest begins to thin slightly, and distant mountain views occasionally appear through the trees. After about 5 to 6 hours of walking through beautiful and remote terrain, we reach Kothe, a quiet campsite surrounded by forested hills and highland meadows.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 10: Trek to Tagnag (4,320m) / Duration: 6–7 hours

After breakfast in Kothe, we begin our trek towards Tangnag, gaining significant altitude today as we move closer to the high alpine zone. The trail leads us through beautiful forested paths, which gradually open up into wide valleys and rocky landscapes. The trail includes both gradual and steep sections, with some narrow paths and stone steps. We pass by yak pastures and seasonal herder shelters along the way. The air becomes cooler and thinner as we approach higher elevations, so we take our time and walk at a steady pace to adjust to the altitude. Tangnag is a small settlement located beside a glacial stream and surrounded by towering cliffs and mountains. It serves as a common stop for trekkers heading toward the Mera Peak region. After about 6 to 7 hours of trekking through changing landscapes and increasing altitude, we reach Tangnag.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 11: Acclimatization Day in Tangnag (4,320m)

Today is an important day for rest and acclimatization day. As we have gained significant altitude, taking time to let our bodies adjust helps prevent altitude sickness and prepares us for the higher sections ahead. After breakfast, we take a short hike to nearby viewpoints or ridges above the small settlement Tangnag. These side hikes offer great views of surrounding peaks such as Mera Peak and the Hinku Valley. The path leads us across rocky terrain and grassy slopes, and we may come across yak herds grazing in the open pastures. Tangnag itself is a small and scenic settlement surrounded by cliffs, and streams. We can spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying warm drinks, and exploring the nearby areas.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 12: Trek to Khare (5,045m) / Duration: 3–4 hours

Today we trek from Tangnag to Khare, the last settlement before Mera Peak. Although the distance is short, the altitude gain is significant, so we walk slowly and steadily to help our bodies adjust. The landscape becomes more barren and alpine, with fewer trees and more open, rugged terrain. As we ascend gradually, we begin to feel the effects of higher altitude, so we take regular breaks and stay hydrated. Khare is a small mountain settlement situated at the base of Mera Peak. It offers incredible views of Mera Peak’s north face and the surrounding mountains. After about 3 to 4 hours of trekking through breathtaking scenery, we reach Khare, where we can rest and prepare for the upcoming climb.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 13:Acclimatization Day in Khare (5,045m)

In the morning, we take a short acclimatization hike to higher ground above Khare. We climb nearby ridges or rocky hills, gaining a few hundred meters in altitude before coming back down to Khare. This “climb high, sleep low” approach helps our bodies adjust better. Along the way, we enjoy stunning views of Mera Peak. This rest day is very important to make the Mera Peak climb safer and more comfortable. It also gives us time to prepare mentally for the rewarding days ahead. At Khare, we also do safety training with the climbing guide to get ready for the climb.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 14: Trek to Mera High Camp (5,780m) / Duration: 5–6 hours

Today we trek from Khare to Mera High Camp, exciting day as we move closer to the summit. The trail begins with a gradual ascent to Mera La Pass at around 5,400 meters. From here, the views open up to stunning snow-covered peaks, including Everest, Makalu, and Baruntse. After crossing Mera La, the trail continues across a glaciated and exposed ridge. We use crampons and ropes as required, following our guide’s instructions carefully. The path is mostly gentle but demanding due to the high altitude and cold winds. We walk slowly and steadily, conserving our energy for the next day’s summit attempt. Mera High Camp is located on a rocky outcrop, offering incredible views of five of the world’s highest mountains. The camp is basic but well-positioned for the final ascent. After about 5 to 6 hours of trekking through snow and ice, we reach Mera High Camp and rest early in preparation for the summit climb.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 15: Summit Mera Peak (6,476m) and Return to Khare (5,045m) / Duration: 10–12 hours

Today is the most important and challenging day of the entire journey — the summit of Mera Peak! We start very early, usually around 2 or 3 AM, with our headlamps lighting the snowy trail. After a light breakfast, we begin our climb from Mera High Camp, roped up and wearing crampons for safety. The trail follows a gradual but steady ascent across the wide glacier. Although not technically difficult, the altitude makes each step more demanding. The air is thin, and we take slow, steady steps with regular breaks to catch our breath. As we climb higher, the sky begins to glow with the morning light, and we’re surrounded by towering peaks. After 6–7 hours of climbing, we reach the summit of Mera Peak (6,476m). From the top, we’re rewarded with one of the finest mountain views in the world—Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Cho Oyu all rise above the horizon. We spend a short time at the summit, take in the view, and begin our descent. Carefully retracing our steps, we return to High Camp and then continue down to Khare. After about 10–12 hours of total climbing and descending, we reach Khare.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 16: Reserve Day

Today is a reserve day set aside in case the summit attempt on Mera Peak needs to be postponed due to bad weather, health concerns, or other unexpected factors. This extra day provides important flexibility in the schedule to ensure safety and give everyone the best chance for success. If we have already reached the summit, the reserve day offers a chance to rest and recover in Khare or on the way to Lukla where we find a good place to enjoy. If the summit was delayed, we will use this day to make another attempt.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 17: Trek to Kothe (3,000m) / Duration: 5–6 hours

Today we begin our descent from Khare to Kothe, leaving the high alpine environment behind as we move back into lower forests and villages. The trail descends gradually through rocky paths and patches of alpine meadows before entering dense pine and rhododendron forests. Along the way, we pass through scattered settlements where we can observe local life and traditional mountain farming. The fresh mountain air and changing landscapes offer a refreshing change after the high-altitude climb. The trail is mostly gentle, with some short uphill sections to keep the walk interesting. Kothe is a quiet village surrounded by forested hills and terraced fields. After about 5 to 6 hours of trekking, we reach Kothe, ready to rest and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 18: Trek to Thuli Kharka (4,300m) / Duration: 6–7 hours

After breakfast in Kothe, we begin our trek to Thuli Kharka. The trail starts with a steady climb through lush forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron. As we ascend, the surroundings become quieter and more remote, with fewer settlements and a strong sense of wilderness. The path includes several ups and downs, crossing ridges and small streams. We pass through moss-covered trees and open meadows, where we might see yaks grazing or encounter herders along the way. The higher we go, the more the scenery opens up to wide views of surrounding valleys and distant peaks. After several hours of gradual ascent and gentle descents, we reach Thuli Kharka.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 19: Trek to Chutanga (3,510m) via Chhetra La Pass (4,600m) / Duration: 6–7 hours

Today we cross the high and scenic Chhetra La Pass (also known as Zatrwa La), which stands at 4,600 meters. After an early breakfast in Thuli Kharka, we begin a steady ascent toward the pass. The climb is gradual but we enjoy the wide mountain views along the way. As we reach the top of Chhetra La, we are greeted by colorful prayer flags and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This is one of the most rewarding moments of the trek, offering a final panoramic glimpse of the Himalayas before we descend toward lower altitudes. After a short break at the top, we begin the descent toward Chutanga. The trail winds down steeply at first, then eases into gentle forest paths. As we go lower, the air becomes warmer and the greenery returns. After about 6 to 7 hours of trekking, we reach Chutanga, a quiet forested area where we rest for the night at very basic settlement.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 20: Trek to Lukla (2,860m) / Duration: 4–5 hours

Today is the final day of our trek as we make our way from Chutanga to Lukla. After breakfast, we begin with a gentle descent through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests. The trail is well-trodden and comfortable, offering a peaceful walk through quiet mountain scenery. As we move lower in elevation, the temperature becomes warmer, and we pass through small settlements and farmlands. After about 4 to 5 hours of walking, we reach Lukla, completing our incredible journey through remote trails, high passes, and the summit of Mera Peak.

Overnight at Guesthouse (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 21: Flight to Ramechhap and Drive to Kathmandu (1,350m) / Duration: 22 min, Flight 5-6 hrs Drive

If the weather is clear, we take an early morning flight from Lukla to Ramechhap. The flight is short but offers incredible views of the Himalayas one last time. Once we land in Ramechhap, shared private vehicle will be waiting to drive us back to Kathmandu. The drive takes several hours through beautiful hills, villages, and river valleys. When we arrive in Kathmandu, we check into our hotel and have the rest of the day to relax. After many days in the mountains, it feels good to return to the comforts of city life.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast/Lunch)

Day 22: Free Day in Kathmandu (Reserve Day) (1,350m)

Today is kept as a reserve day in case our flight from Lukla was delayed due to bad weather, which is common in the mountains. This extra day gives us flexibility and peace of mind, allowing time to adjust plans without rushing. If we’re already in Kathmandu, this becomes a free day to relax or explore Bhaktapur, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, beautiful temples, and traditional Newari culture. If you want to explore on your own, we can provide recommendations and advice on the best places to visit, including must-see sights, local markets, and cultural experiences. If you prefer, TravelFootsteps will happily organize a guided sightseeing tour for you, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

Day 23: Extra Free Day in Kathmandu (1,350m)

We always include 2 extra days after the trek to give you enough time for your international flight. Flights in and out of the mountains can sometimes be delayed or canceled because of weather or other reasons. Having these extra days means you won’t have to rush or worry about missing your flight. These extra days also give you a chance to rest, relax, and enjoy your time in Kathmandu or nearby places before you travel home. You can use this time to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or simply take it easy after your trek. By planning these extra days, we make sure your trip ends smoothly and comfortably, with less stress and more peace of mind.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

Day 24: Final Departure

At the scheduled time, we will transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you. We hope you had a memorable journey and enjoyed exploring the incredible landscapes, cultures, and mountains of Nepal with us. We look forward to welcoming you again for another adventure in the Himalayas. Safe travels and hope to see you next time, Namaste!