Climbing Mera Peak, one of Nepal’s most popular trekking peaks, requires obtaining several permits. There are Two Routes for Climbing Mera Peak. You can choose any one of these routes for Climbing Mera Peak. Here’s the breakdown of the permits needed for this Peak climbing:
Trekking Agency and Climbing Permit:
The NMA Mera Peak Climbing Permit cost varies as per the season and the popularity of the trek
This Peak Climbing requires a climbing permit, which is issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). However, NMA permits are typically obtained through a registered trekking agency rather than directly by individuals.
The trekking agency will arrange the necessary paperwork, including the climbing permit, on behalf of the climbers. The permit fee varies depending on the season and the number of climbers in the group.
The permit for this Peak Climbing includes entry into the Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area, through which the Mera Peak climbing route passes.
The winter season and summer season are considered off-seasons so the cost for climbing this Peak is low during these seasons. You can get the NMA Permit for only USD70 for Foreigners and NPR 1000 for Nepalese.
In spring, the skies are clear and the temperature is the most favorable for this climb so the cost for climbing this Peak amounts up to USD250 for Foreigners and NPR4000 for Nepalese.
As in Autumn is another peak season for this Peak Climbing, the cost for this Peak Climbing is USD125 for Foreigners and NPR2000 for Nepalese.
Route 1
Apart from the standard route for Mera Peak Climbing, you can also complete the climb from another route. The second route to this Peak Climbing follows the Everest Base Camp route till Namche Bazaar. Passing through Namche Bazaar, you will make your climb up to Mera Base camp and Mera High Camp, finally reaching the summit. This is an alternative trek route and the permit fees for this route is mentioned below:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:
The Mera Peak climbing route also traverses the Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest and other high peaks. Therefore, climbers need to obtain a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit.
The permit can be obtained at the park entrance in Monjo or in Kathmandu through the Nepal Tourism Board office.
SAARC Nationals
NPR 1500 (NPR 165 VAT charge)
Foreign Nationals
NPR 3000 (NPR 390 VAT charge)
Sagarmatha National Park Permit Fee
Local Area Permit:
The Everest Base Camp route also requires the Local Area Permit for entering the Khumbu region. This permit is easily available in Lukla on arrival and will be prepared by your trekking company.
The Local Area Permit for this Peak Climbing costs NRs. 2000 per person which is approximately USD 20.
Route 2
One of the most common routes for Mera Peak climbing is the 18 days Mera Peak Climbing route that takes you through Thangnak after the scenic flight from Lukla. The route then continues to Khare finally starting the trek to Mera Base Camp and Mera High Camp. traveling by this route, the Mera Peak Climbing permits required are listed below;
Local Area Permit:
First of all, you will need the local area permit for entering the region for the climb. You can get this permit at Lukla on arrival. In most cases, the company you are traveling with will have the permit ready for your climb beforehand.
The Local Area Permit for Mera Peak Climbing costs NRs. 2000 per person which is approximately USD 20.
Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit:
This is another important permit for Mera peak climbing. As you enter the Makalu Barun National Park, you will get to see many exotic biodiversities of the area. They are protected under the Makalu Barun National Park so you cannot enter without a Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit. The permit is free for locals but the cost varies for foreigners.
Other nationals: Nrs. 3000 (Nrs. 390 vat charge) approximately USD 30
Route 3
It is one of the difficult Mera Peak climbing routes and the shortest of the bunch. We don’t recommend this route for novice climbers. After landing in Lukla, you begin your journey to the east, straight to Zatra La Pass (4,610m). You enter the Hinku valley from here and get to Mera Base Camp via Thagnak. This route is also prohibited since there aren’t adequate acclimatization days. You will arrive at Lukla and reach the Zatra La pass within two days after starting your trip.
Note: This route is ideal for experienced climbers who want to test their skills and exceed their limitations. Also, the Mera Peak climbing permit cost for this route is the same as route 2.
Essential Documents for the permits
You need to have certain papers, as well as payments, to acquire the Mera Peak climbing permits. The following documents are necessary for Mera Peak Climbing permits:
2 passport-sized photos and 1 photocopy of your passport for each permit
Precisely filled permits forms
A certain amount of Nepali currency
Travel insurance
Tips for Mera Peak climbing permits
Trekkers must respect the culture and lifestyle and refrain from engaging in any action that contradicts the existing norms and values of the society.
All of the permits listed above are only applicable for a single entrance. The permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. The permit holder can enter the surrounding places within the Conservation Area.
Anyone accessing the Conservation Area must follow the National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act 2029 B.S. and the regulations promulgated under this Act. If you violate these laws and regulations, you may face legal charges. So, please act appropriately.
Keep the Mera Peak climbing permits with you all the time. You should store them carefully since the relevant staff may inspect your permits throughout your ascent. If you do not show them the permissions, you may be asked to leave the area.
Entrance permits of specific places are available on the entry permit counters only. They are not given at any of the checkpoints located along the routes of those locations.
It’s essential to ensure that all permits are obtained before embarking on the Mera Peak climbing expedition. Trekking agencies typically handle the permit process as part of their service package, simplifying the administrative process for climbers. Additionally, climbers should always adhere to local regulations and respect the natural environment while climbing in the Everest region.