The trek to Amphu Lapcha La passes through the wilder upper Hongu valley. Amphu Lapcha is to be technically passed to Chukkung Valley. The crossing of the pass requires the use of technical climbing equipments and trekkers must be skilled in the use of this and be prepared. It holds the views of Himalayas and hearty scenery of lakes Hongu lakes and Panch Pokhari lakes.

Highlights of the Trekking

The panoramic views of the Himalayas include Makalu, Baruntse, Everest, Lhotse, Island peak, Amadablam, Thamserku, ancient monasteries and different community with majority Sherpa people.

Here are some major highlights of the Mera Peak and Amphu Lapcha Trek:

Awe-Inspiring Himalayan Panoramas
• Stand atop Mera Peak (6,476m) and be surrounded by breathtaking 360° views of majestic peaks like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam and more
• Cross the formidable Amphu Lapcha Pass (5,845m) and behold the dramatic vistas of the Himalayas unfolding before you
• Trek through the Honku Valley and Panch Pokhari area for stunning up-close views of Chamlang, Baruntse and other lesser-known giants

Cultural Treasures and Sherpa Hospitality
• Visit the legendary Thyangboche Monastery, a spiritual and cultural icon perched atop rambling hills with sweeping mountain vistas
• Explore the vibrant melting pot of Buddhism and mountain culture
• Experience warm Sherpa hospitality first-hand during overnight stays in tea houses and interactions with the locals

Natural Wonders and Diverse Landscapes
• Marvel at holy Panch Pokhari - a set of five sacred high-altitude lakes nestled amidst yak pastures
• Trek amidst lush rhododendron forests, crossing glaciers, moraines, rivers and high passes
• Spot unique Himalayan flora and fauna like the elusive musk deer and colorful pheasants, edelweiss etc.

Cultural Immersion and Local Life
• Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries like Thame and Khumjung and learn about their vibrant history
• Observe the daily lifestyle of the resilient mountain dwellers, mainly of Sherpa ethnicity
• Chance to learn about mountaineering, local folklore, traditions and customs from your Sherpa guides

Test of Endurance and Accomplishment
• Challenge yourself physically and mentally on one of the most strenuous and technical treks in the Himalayas
• Feel the thrill of scaling a 6,000m trekking peak and crossing a formidable high mountain pass
• A profound sense of achievement on completing this grueling yet incredibly rewarding journey

Note

All conditions stated in the itinerary are for the visitors who prefer full package programme. At the same time, we also serve you based on your choice. The selection of itineraries and the staff depends on your choice and financial procurement. We have options for any partial visit as per your requirement and financial condition.

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu; transfer to the Hotel
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Relax and get over the jet lag.

Day 02: Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley
After breakfast, we start our sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley - Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath Stupa. Return to the hotel.

Day 03: Fly to Lukla
We take an early morning flight to Lukla (2,860m), the gateway to the Everest region. Meet the rest of the trekking crew and begin our trek to Chutanga (3,050m). Overnight at camp.

Day 04: Trek to Chutanga (3,050m), overnight at camp
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges with great views of Kussum Kangru (6,367m). Reach Chutanga and set up camp.

Day 05: Trek to Zatrala La pass (4,600m), overnight at camp
A strenuous day as we climb up to cross the Zatrwa La pass at 4,600m with fantastic views of Kwande Peak. Descend and set up camp.

Day 06: Trek to Kotte (3,600m), overnight at camp
Descend to the Hinku valley and follow the riverbed up to Kotte village. Camp overnight.

Day 07: Trek to Thangnak (4,350m), overnight at camp
Trek through the Hinku valley, climbing steadily to Thangnak, a summer grazing area. Camp overnight.

Day 08: Acclimatization at Thangnak, overnight at camp
This is an acclimatization day. You can explore the area and mentally prepare for the upcoming climb.

Day 09: Trek to Khare (4,950m), overnight at camp
Climb up through rocky trails towards the Mera La pass and reach Khare, a base camp area. Camp overnight.

Day 10: Trek to Mera Base Camp (5,350m), overnight at camp
Further ascent following the glacier to establish base camp for Mera Peak summit. Rest and acclimatize.

Day 11: Mera High Camp (5,800m), overnight at camp
Today is a short but strenuous climb to Mera High Camp to further aid acclimatization for the summit push.

Day 12: Summit Mera Peak (6,476m) and back to Base Camp, overnight
An early start around 2 am for the summit push. The climb is strenuous but from the summit, you get outstanding views of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu and more. Descend to Base Camp.

Day 13: Trek to Honku Valley (4,200m), overnight at camp
Descend from Mera Base Camp into the Honku valley, a beautiful region surrounded by peaks. Overnight camp.

Day 14: Trek to Panch Pokhari (5,545m), overnight at camp
Traverse through grassy meadows and rocky trails to reach the holy Panch Pokhari, a set of five sacred lakes.

Day 15: Acclimatization at Panch Pokhari, overnight at camp
Rest and acclimatize for the upcoming Amphu Lapcha pass crossing. Optional hike around the lakes.

Day 16: Trek to Amphu Lapcha Base Camp (5,600m), overnight
A short trek to establish base camp for crossing the formidable Amphu Lapcha pass the next day.

Day 17: Cross Amphu Lapcha (5,845m) to Chhukung (4,730m), overnight
An early start to cross the challenging Amphu Lapcha. Views of Lhotse and Ama Dablam from the pass. Descend to Chhukung.

Day 18: Trek to Thyangboche (3,860m), overnight at camp/lodge
Descend through Pangboche village to reach Thyangboche, home of the famous Thyangboche Monastery.

Day 19: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), overnight at lodge
Trek through rhododendron forests to reach Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital and thriving market town.

Day 20: Trek to Lukla (2,860m), overnight at lodge
Our final day of trekking as we descend back to Lukla, enjoying the last views of the mountains.

Day 21: Fly back to Kathmandu
We take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel upon arrival.

Day 22: Rest at Kathmandu
A well-deserved rest day in Kathmandu. You can go shopping, explore, or simply relax.

Day 23: Departure
Our representatives will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.

What is included?

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast as per the programme.
Airport / Hotel transfers.
Three meals in a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with hot beverage and snacks whilst on trekking.
Cosy guesthouse or Tented camp accommodation whilst on trekking.
Sagarmatha National Park fee and Trekker's Information Management System fees.
All necessary staff with an experienced fluent English speaking licenced trekking guide, cook and assistant guide (as per the group size).
Highly experienced trekking porters to carry luggage (1porter per 2 trekkers).
Staff food, accommodation, clothing, salary & insurance.
All necessary ground transportation.
All governmental paperworks and procedures.
All government and local taxes.
Satellite phones and Gamow bag.
Exclusive Medical Kit Bag
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at typical Nepali restaurant.

What is not included?

Visa fee for Nepal.
International airfares, extra baggage and cargo charges
Meals and extra night (more than stated in itinerary) accomodation in Kathmandu.
Personal expenses
Bar and beverage bills.
Your Travel and rescue Insurance.
Rescue & Evacuation costs.
Your optional and extended trips e.g. sightseeing, rafting etc. (other than the negotiated)
Gratitude (tip) for staff.

Why us? Is a conscientious question that requires an honest answer of integrity and devotion of the highest standards.

We are what we were from the very beginning: Read on to know us the way we are…

At Unique Adventure International, We do not pretend to be what we are not, ours is a simple ethic, hospitality straight from the heart. When doing trips with us, you will soon find out excellence with us is not just a norm, it’s more a habit.

We have walked the length and breadth of the Himalaya across Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan for over two decades…and still counting, we have enjoyed all of it so much; right to the hilt. We love our mountains and enjoy it so much when we tread its trails with our trekking guests, who also love these mountains as much as us or maybe even more. We have much knowledge of the land and meticulously plan things so our guests get the utmost from their sojourns with us; we know how chaotic it can be for our guests when they organise holidays so far from home…keeping this in mind, we sort out for the long haul and ensure our guests do not only have fun on the way but also get value for money with purposeful journeys. We know and understand that this may probably be a once in a lifetime holiday where you will explore a world not too familiar and its binding for us to make doubly sure you are completely safe throughout the whole course of your expedition when you are in Nepal. With each trip we do with you, we are constantly searching for ways to improve our services so that your expectations of us are met beyond what you could have ever expected on all fronts. We want that you go home with a happy heart and unforgettable memories of an odyssey well done. With Unique Adventure, this is central to all our thoughts when we meet you.

A small business with big ideals…

We are a small outfit with big ideas and we know how complex human nature can be; its only but human to understand your weaknesses and respect your strengths, both of which will be put to the test on the punishing trails of Nepal, but it’s always our mission to understand you and make your journey as calm as possible.

This is the whole reason why we get repeat clients who never seem to get drained with the Himalayas and enjoy the way we guide them throughout the trip…

We know how worrisome it can be when you choose to live life on the edge… so we go the mile to make sure your holidays become more purposeful, more significant…

We do not push you, no matter what the circumstances…

We know you want it slow and easy the moment your plane hits the tarmac in Kathmandu. We understand your instinctive curiosities and ensure you are left alone with enough space to do what we have planned for you – ‘your way’’. You call the shots – it’s your trip – and we provide you enough freedom to make your own decisions in harmony with your group. We help you to become friends and bridge gaps; it’s a matter of pride for us to mention here that we created some of the best friendships where some morphed into lifetime partnerships and this is how things shape out with us when you assemble in our country. And when we are out with you in the country at high elevations, we ensure that our crew leads you in ways comfortable to your body and physical needs.

Our ‘True-to-Life’ practical itineraries…

Our itineraries are meticulously planned and based on the way you see it when your trip commences. Our themes are hands-on and we take you to some difficult but extraordinary places where some would likely pass by. We know you thirst for the unknown and interesting; your search for things that will ignite your emotions and imaginations, seeking for the ‘whys’, how’s and when’s’ into the mountain culture, lifestyles and traditions that you witness in territory you have never been familiar with. We put in a lot of effort to create astonishing one-off experiences which would make great notes for memorable stories to pass down to the coming generations. Each trip we design opens up new avenues to a whole new world that you are not familiar with…and when you discover the answers, it could be a life changing experience you would have never expected.

Trips to match your time frames…

We are flexible in the way we operate our trips based on your exclusive needs. We understand the kind of pressure ridden world you hail from and know you have worked hard for your dream holidays. Our programs are typically designed to give you the most and the best based on your time limitations without any blemishes on the joys that come with your venture.

You could be planning a budget trek or a luxury tour, maybe even a trekking peak; whatever the choice, we give you an extension combo so you have a scintillating mix of history, the outdoors and even jell in a jungle safari into the potpourri so you have varied experiences within the timeframe you’ve chosen. Our website is programmed to give you a host of options to make you smile…

Accommodation: They say Home is where the Hearth is…and yes, the Pillow!!

We are extra wary when arranging your accommodation before you enter our country. We know we’ve got to give you something that’s closest to home. After consulting with you and being twice as sure about what you’re expecting when it comes down to that most important part of life: resting your body and mind at night, we make sure we give you the best accommodating facilities available at a hotel that’s not only comfortable but also a place that is spanking clean with fresh linen and staff who understand your needs and go the length in making sure you feel at home, no matter what the length of your stay with us.

This also includes the sanitized conditions of the food you are served. Even when on the trails, we go the mile to make sure you find a cosy teahouse with no dampness and enough ventilation to keep you healthy and warm with food that’s organic and clean. We know how important the hearth is wherever you stay. With us, be sure that all your personal needs are taken care of well. Ours is the kind of hospitality that comes straight from the heart…

Safety and Security: This is mandatory and imperative…

Our safety and security arrangements for all our inbound guests cross all boundaries; from the moment your jet hits the tarmac at the airport in Kathmandu. This is a process that begins prior to your arrival in Kathmandu, when we design your itinerary based on the program you have chosen. It begins with choosing the right team for you, especially if it’s a trek. We make sure your crew is primed for any contingency when at altitude. We believe in following firm standards with focus on risk assessment knowing mountain climbing is always a risky business despite the excitement it offers. All the planning is done prior to your arrival so you have a carefree, footloose and fancy free journey, without any hassles.

We always advise our guests to go through medical routines in their home countries before embarking on trips above 3000m. We also encourage our guests to get insured before coming to Nepal.

Your entire stay in Nepal is monitored from day one, especially when you are on the mountains. We take nothing for granted, nature can be a monster when least expected. When booking your trip through ‘Unique Adventure, you are not just a client – you are more than all that - you are a parent, a brother/sister, a close colleague – in a word – ‘family’; and all our safety precautions and personalized services are purely based on this relationship.

We Respect and Care for the local folks and Love the Environment we operate in…

We are conscious in the importance of preserving the natural beauty and culture of Nepal, so that future visitors can also enjoy the wonders of this beautiful but fragile environment. We are sensitive and devoted to responsible travel with minimum impact on the environment and local communities. The planet is large enough for everyone to explore and it’s the curiosity of human nature to explore and discover the unknown. We are always careful about the ecosystems that surround us when we are on the mountains, but we don’t let this spoil the spirit for adventure. We seek to enjoy in ways beneficial to others and wish to respect this beauty that God created for us to appreciate; and we want to keep it that way. Equally important, we instruct our crew and travellers to be aware of the values of responsible travel, by: respecting people, cultures and local environments, in creating goodwill; with cross-cultural sharing and experiences; and helping make sustainable development practical, where we put in efforts to give back more than we take.

Our Trekking crews are Principal to the Company…we’re Family…

One paramount issue for trekking companies in Nepal are employees directly connected to guests when trekking in the Himalayas and this is key to any trip conducted anywhere on the Himalayas. Our staffs in general receive fixed monthly salaries and our trekking crews get special rates as defined by the Ministry of Labour in consultation with the Ministry of Tourism - Government of Nepal.

This also includes the provision of Social Security for mountain workers as per government directives. In addition to this, we also provide climbing training to new comers listed on our payroll. All our seasoned guides are well trained in the use and application of First Aid in the event of any unexpected injuries that may occur in the course of the journey when at altitude.

Field Employees are constantly upgraded for personal development, delivered via courses in English, about nature, history, and ongoing training as mountain guides with techniques based on safety precautions...along with this, our mountain crews are insured and covered against any eventualities. The insurance package covers the cost of health care if injured or sick and provides a lifetime gratuity if any employee is physically disabled. We treat our employees as valuable assets. We know their security and happiness is vital to ensure yours throughout your stay in Nepal…

Innovation: We are constantly juggling new Products…

Ours is a constant search for new trails in the great wilderness. We’re always innovating new areas for travel within and around the city limits and out on the mountains. Nepal has so much to offer in her ancient heritage cities and within the vast expanse of her Himalayas. We ceaselessly research new products in order to give our old clients new thrills; this has always been part of our company’s policies for giving more value for money. We know that many of our guests rarely get time to travel and when they do, they’d sure like to make the best of it; besides Nepal, we even cut across borders giving our guests unbelievable historical and cultural highlights of Tibet, Bhutan and India. We even design divine spiritual tours for the holy who’d sure like to hike down footsteps of ancient ancestors along the Mount Kailash Mountains so that they could come face-to-face with the gods. You even get opportunities to stroll down the cobbled stone Squares of Patan and Bhaktapur and slip into the Forbidden Temple of Pashupatinath. Beyond the spiritual of Kailash in Tibet, our programs take you to the highest region on earth, at an elevation of 4,900 meters (16,000 ft). Very much noted as the ‘roof of the world’, Tibet is symbolic of a mesmerizing culture seeped in spirituality and nature. From superb temples and tranquil monasteries to the Yangtze River and adorable Pandas, our products are molded in a way that ensures you experience a whole new world of amazing discoveries that tells you about God’s gift of a wonderful planet we all live in.

‘Please visit our highly informative website for some of the most extensive information on some of the most stimulating holidays ever conceived’. Get friendly with us on: www.uniquetreks.com

We give you Mountain Yoga

The Mountain Yoga we offer on the trail is an earthy, friendly and unassuming space, dedicated to healing and transformation as your mind battles the vagaries of nature while on your journey in the wild. When you decide to holiday on the mountains; it’s like a calling into the high and wild to experience Mother Nature at a higher level and to explore her true beauty. But there’s another calling that wants you to find release from your inner demons. It might be seen as the feeling that there has to be more to life than our day-to-day routines in the machine of modern day society. As you go higher above the tree-lines, our certified yoga guides give you the kind of alignment helpful to your body’s needs when adjusting to the thin air at altitude. They are compassionate, knowledgeable and guide you with postures and breathing exercises that promote physical fitness at higher elevations, keeping the mind calmer, making your self-awareness more acute, and help you get more balanced, while preventing you from having any problems with altitude mountain sickness. Yoga is an ancient practice known for thousands of years to clean out even the deepest mental grooves and rigid mindsets which may hamper your trip and spoil the fun on your trek.

We are the only adventure company in Nepal offering our guests mountain yoga which enhances hassle free trips and keeps our guests safe from common altitude problems.

Our Success Ratio…

We’ve been through it all – the ups and downs have been full and plenty. The series of earthquakes of 2015 affected us bitterly; however, we kept the faith. We knew this was nature at its best and worst. We do not take anything for granted when it’s a tryst with Mother Nature, especially in the wilderness above the tree-lines. We knew we would still need these mountains more than they need us...These mountains teach us so much about life. It was Almighty God that created these mountains with all its stark beauty, but then a natural calamity can be lurking somewhere around the bend, and we must always be aware of the environment - and this comes with respect, consciousness and faith.

Despite the hurdles and hiccups, our Success Ratio has been over 98%, why? Because experience has taught us the hard way to Love God, respect the mountains, to learn from our mistakes, and to always, at all times, be Honest with our Guests…and let God do the rest.

Here's a recommended packing list for the Mera Peak and Amphu Lapcha Trek:

Clothing:
- 3-4 trekking shirts (quick-dry)
- 2 trekking pants
- 4-5 pairs of trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- 2 fleece/woolen sweaters
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Lightweight travel pants/shorts for camp
- 2-3 t-shirts
- Underwear
- Warm hat, balaclava
- Liner gloves and warm gloves

Footwear:
- Sturdy trekking boots (broken-in) with ankle support
- Lightweight camp shoes/sandals
- Gaiters
- Hiking poles (adjustable)

Climbing Gear:
- Crampons (can be rented)
- Ice axe (can be rented)
- Climbing helmet
- Harness (can be rented)
- Carabiners
- Ascenders/descenders
- 50m climbing rope

Accessories:
- 50-60 liter backpack with hip belt
- Daypack of 20-25 liters
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles or hydration bladder
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat/cap
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Toiletries (biodegradable products)
- Quick-dry towel
- Toilet paper/wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Insect repellent
- Personal medications
- Basic first-aid kit

Documents/Essentials:
- Passport copies
- Permits (get details)
- Insurance documents
- Cash in Nepal currency
- Camera, batteries/charger
- Power bank
- Adapter/converter
- Lightweight waterproof cover for backpack
- Trekking snacks (energy bars, nuts, etc.)
- Trekking map
- Water purification tablets

You can buy some items in Kathmandu if needed, but pack essentials beforehand. Also, bring backpack covers and waterproof bags to keep items dry.

Dress in layers and keep your backpack light by carrying only essentials. Ask your guide for any other specific recommendations or a last minute check before the trek.

1. What is the highest elevation reached on this trek?
The highest point is the summit of Mera Peak at 6,476m (21,247 ft).

2. Is this trek suitable for beginners?
No, this is a very strenuous and challenging trek requiring excellent physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience. It is suited for experienced trekkers only.

3. How many days are spent acclimatizing?
There are 3 dedicated acclimatization days - at Thangnak, Panch Pokhari, and before crossing Amphu Lapcha pass.

4. What permits are required?
You need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Mera Peak Climbing Permit, and Imja Valley Entry Permit.

5. What is the difficulty of crossing Amphu Lapcha Pass?
Crossing the 5,845m Amphu Lapcha is one of the most technical sections, requiring use of ropes, ladders and crampons. It's graded difficult.

6. Are camping facilities provided or do we stay in lodges?
Most overnights are in camping tents except for a few nights in lodges at Thyangboche, Namche and Lukla.

7. What is the maximum group size?
To ensure safety and experience, the maximum group size is kept at around 10-12 people per trip.

8. Do I need to carry my own camping/climbing gear?
No, camping equipment like tents, mattresses, cooking utensils etc. are provided and carried by porters. You only need to carry personal gear.

9. Are trained guides and porters provided?
Yes, experienced mountain guides and porters who are well-versed with the route accompany each group.

10. What is the climatic condition during the trek?
Daytime temperatures can range from 15°C to -10°C. Night times can dip to -20°C or lower at higher altitudes.

11. Is it possible to rent climbing gear in Kathmandu?
Yes, you can easily rent good quality climbing equipment like crampons, axes, harnesses etc. in Kathmandu.

12. What are the emergency evacuation procedures?
In case of emergencies, helicopter evacuations can be arranged from specific points en route on a chargeable basis.

13. What is the recommended travel insurance?
You should have coverage for emergency evacuation, high-altitude trekking up to 6,500m, and adventure activities.

14. What are the best months for this trek?
The best seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when weather is stable and clear.

15. Is there mobile network coverage on the route?
Network coverage is limited and patchy beyond Namche Bazaar. Satellite phones are carried for emergencies.