Mera Peak (6,476 m) after the official handover of the housing project.
Following the successful completion and official handover of the Nabina Rai Family Housing Construction Project – 2027, participants will have the opportunity to join an optional expedition to Mera Peak (6,476 m)—the highest trekking peak permitted by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and one of Nepal's most beautiful mountaineering destinations.
The expedition will include trekking through the scenic Hinku Valley, followed by a ski touring ascent to the summit of Mera Peak and, subject to suitable snow and weather conditions, a ski descent to Mera Base Camp under the leadership of experienced Nepalese ski mountaineering guides.
This concept is based on proven experience. In October 2018, I successfully led a ski mountaineering expedition for three American women, completing a ski touring ascent and ski descent on Mera Peak. The expedition was completed safely and successfully, providing an unforgettable Himalayan skiing experience. Building on that experience, we hope to offer a similar adventure following the completion of this community project.
After the Summit
After the expedition, the team will return to Kothe, where we will hold a Summit Celebration and Appreciation Program with our climbing guides, ski guides, porters, and support staff to celebrate the successful expedition and recognize everyone's contribution.
Programme Highlights
Bringing back the denser card layout for the full community-to-summit story.
The journey begins with arrival, preparation, travel to Kharikhola, community work, and the final project handover.
The second phase covers the Lower Solukhumbu and Hinku Valley route to Mera Peak with acclimatization and contingency planning.
The concept builds on the successful Mera Peak ski mountaineering expedition led for three American women in October 2018.
The programme closes with a summit celebration in Kothe, helicopter transfer to Lukla, and flight back to Kathmandu.
Programme Itinerary
Community Service Project & Mera Peak Expedition (6,476 m)
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, there will be an opportunity to relax or explore the nearby area. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and expedition briefing.
Kathmandu Sightseeing & Expedition Preparation (1,400 m)
After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The remainder of the day is dedicated to final preparations for both the community service project and the Mera Peak expedition, including equipment checks, permit verification, and a comprehensive expedition briefing.
Kathmandu to Salleri, Solukhumbu (2,390 m)
Travel from Kathmandu to Salleri by private jeep, a scenic journey of approximately 8 hours, passing through the beautiful hills and countryside of Nepal. Alternatively, participants may choose an optional 30-minute flight to Phaplu, followed by a short drive to Salleri. Overnight in Salleri.
Salleri to Kharikhola (2,040 m)
Drive approximately 4 hours from Salleri to Kharikhola. Upon arrival, set up camp and visit the community project site. Meet local residents, inspect the construction area, and make final preparations before the project officially begins the following day.
Community Project Begins
The community service project officially starts. Participants will work alongside local community members, volunteers, and skilled workers, contributing to the construction of the family home while learning about Sherpa culture, traditions, and rural Himalayan life.
Continue Community Project
Continue construction activities and collaborate closely with the local community. Participants will experience teamwork, cultural exchange, and the satisfaction of contributing to a meaningful humanitarian project.
Monastery, School & Rock Climbing Exploration
Take a break from construction to visit the local monastery and school, gaining a deeper understanding of the community's culture, education, and spiritual heritage. In the afternoon, enjoy a rock climbing session at the natural climbing area that I explored and developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing participants with an opportunity to experience outdoor climbing in a spectacular Himalayan setting.
Continue Community Project
Return to the construction site to complete the remaining work. Participants will continue working with local builders and community members to prepare the project for completion.
Project Completion & Handover Ceremony
Celebrate the successful completion of the project with an official handover ceremony attended by local residents, community leaders, and project participants. The event includes speeches, cultural interaction, group photographs, and a celebration recognizing everyone's contribution to improving the lives of the beneficiary family.
Begin the Mera Peak Expedition
After breakfast, begin trekking from Kharikhola (2,040 m) towards Ramailo Danda (3,276 m), marking the start of the Mera Peak expedition via the beautiful Lower Solukhumbu and Hinku Valley.
Mera Peak Expedition
Via Lower Solukhumbu – Hinku Valley
Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights
Kharikhola (2,040 m) – Ramailo Danda (3,276 m)
Begin the trek from Kharikhola through traditional Sherpa and Rai villages, crossing Pangom and Pangom La before reaching the beautiful ridge of Ramailo Danda. Overnight at Ramailo Danda (3,276 m).
Ramailo Danda (3,276 m) – Chhatra Khola (2,800 m)
Descend through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests before entering the remote Hinku Valley. Overnight at Chhatra Khola (2,800 m).
Chhatra Khola (2,800 m) – Kothe (3,600 m)
Follow the Hinku River through pristine forests with magnificent mountain scenery. Overnight at Kothe (3,600 m).
Kothe (3,600 m) – Thangnak (4,350 m)
Continue trekking along the Hinku Valley, gradually gaining altitude while enjoying spectacular views of Kusum Kanguru and Mera Peak. Overnight at Thangnak (4,350 m).
Thangnak (4,350 m) – Khare (5,045 m)
Trek to Khare, the last permanent settlement before Mera Peak. Prepare climbing and ski equipment for the summit expedition. Overnight at Khare (5,045 m).
Acclimatization Day – Khare (5,045 m)
Acclimatization hike and technical training including glacier travel, crampon techniques, ice axe skills, fixed rope practice, and ski touring preparation. Overnight at Khare (5,045 m).
Khare (5,045 m) – Mera High Camp (5,780 m)
Ascend the Mera Glacier to High Camp. Final briefing and preparation for the summit attempt. Overnight at High Camp (5,780 m).
Summit Mera Peak (6,476 m) – Khare (5,045 m)
Early morning summit attempt of Mera Peak (6,476 m). For experienced ski mountaineers, an optional ski descent to Mera Base Camp will be undertaken, subject to weather, snow conditions, and guide approval. Continue descending to Khare. Overnight at Khare (5,045 m).
Contingency Day
An additional day is reserved in case of unfavorable weather or delayed summit attempt.
Khare (5,045 m) – Kothe (3,600 m)
Descend through the beautiful Hinku Valley back to Kothe. Overnight at Kothe (3,600 m).
Summit Celebration at Kothe (3,600 m)
Celebrate the successful expedition with a Summit Celebration and Appreciation Program together with climbing guides, ski guides, porters, and support staff. The evening includes certificate presentation, sharing expedition experiences, group photographs, and a farewell dinner to recognize everyone's dedication and teamwork.
Kothe (3,600 m) – Lukla (2,860 m) by Helicopter
Enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight from Kothe to Lukla, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Hinku Valley and Everest region. Overnight at Lukla (2,860 m).
Lukla (2,860 m) – Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, marking the successful completion of the expedition.
Optional Add-Ons
Extra experiences can extend the adventure after the expedition.
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Scenic helicopter access to Everest Base Camp, the Khumbu Glacier, and Kala Patthar, subject to conditions.
Everest Scenic Flight
A panoramic mountain flight from Kathmandu for participants who want one more Himalayan perspective.
"This unique program combines community service, Sherpa culture, world-class mountaineering, ski touring, and responsible adventure tourism, creating a meaningful experience that benefits both participants and the local community."
Join the Expedition
This is an optional continuation after the housing project handover for participants interested in combining community service with Himalayan mountaineering.
Contact the TrustStart with the Housing Project
The expedition follows the completion of the Nabina Rai Family Housing Construction Project – 2027, linking humanitarian service with a guided high-altitude objective.
