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Is Mera Peak Easier Than Island Peak?

Published: 15 Oct 2024 | Last updated: 15 Oct 2024

Every fellow trekker who wants to experience the thrill of climbing has thought of embarking on those trekking peaks. Among the trekking peaks, Mera and Island are some of the famous trekking peak categories.

In the trekking peaks category from the Nepal Mountaineering Association, the Island and Mera Peaks are trekking peaks that stand at more than 6000m and are easily accessible for experienced trekkers or beginner climbers.

But there is one question about Mera Peak and Island Peak: Which is easier? Well, both of them are 6476m and 6189m, respectively. Although, there is a catch: Island Peak is a bit harder despite being of less altitude.

There are lots of aspects that make the Mera peak easier. How about we take a deep dive into the journey to explore the difference between Mera Peak and Island Peak

Overview of Mera Peak

Mera Peak is one of the two trekking peaks over 6000m. It is located in the Mahalangur section of the Himalayas, specifically within the Hinku Valley south of Everest.

The trail takes you through the little hamlet of Everest, the Lukla. As you walk through the whirling landscape of cascading rivers, dense pine, and rhododendron forest and picture traditional valleys, it will ultimately lead you to the base of Mera Peak and the high camp at 5800 meters.

The climb is technically straightforward, but the height of the mountain is such that oxygen levels are half those at sea level. It is better to have previous climbing experience or a period of acclimatization via a trek before attempting the summit.

Aside from that, the hike to the final push to the summit was supported by the fixed ropes laid by the guide to help in the ascent. Once you are at the top of the peak, the views of the surrounding areas are just out of this world. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and, at a distance, Kanchenjunga are there to greet you with their majestic white smile. Now, as we complete our summit, we descend back through the base camp and make our way to Lukla with self-reflection to a never-to-be-forgotten experience.

Overview of Island Peak

Imja Tse, more famously known as Island Peak, stands at an altitude of 6,189 meters in the lap of the Khumbu region. It is known for its stunning views and challenging climbing experience.

The fact that Island Peak climbing follows the path of the classic Everest Base Camp trek makes it even more exciting and thrilling. After a scenic flight to the small hamlet of Lukla, you start your adventure at Everest Base Camp via Namche. But when you reach Kala Patthar, you take a different route to reach the base camp of Island Peak. This is where you will prepare for the challenging climb to Island Peak, attempted from either the base camp (4,970 m) or the high camp (5,600 m), along a natural line that leads over a narrow ridge to the summit.

During your journey, towering peaks like Everest (visible from Namche and appearing larger as you get closer, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Lhotse Middle Peak, Lhotse Shar, Baruntse, and Ama Dablam stand in majestic presence.

The moment you stand atop Island Peak and behold the magnificent panorama, with the cloud base below, feel like you're standing on top of the world—it’s an extraordinary moment.

Island Peak vs Mera Peak

Aspect	Island Peak	Mera Peak
Location and Altitude	6,189 meters (20,305 feet) in the Khumbu region	6,476 meters (21,247 feet) in the Mahalangur region
Difficulty Comparison	More technical; involves steep climbs and crevasses	Less technical; straightforward ascent
Physical Endurance Required	Shorter trek but more intense climbing	Longer trek requiring greater endurance
Altitude Challenges	Requires acclimatization due to high altitude	Also requires acclimatization but is less intense
Climbing Experience Required	Basic mountaineering skills (ice axe, crampons)	Basic trekking experience sufficient
Scenic Views	Close-up views of Everest and surrounding peaks	Panoramic views including Everest and Makalu

Final Verdict: Which One Is Easier?

When you compare the technical challenges between Mera Peak and Island Peak, the latter stands out. Despite its lower altitude, Island Peak's climb is more technical, requiring mountaineering skills. Navigating icy slopes and crevasses adds complexity to the ascent, making it an exciting challenge for experienced climbers.

At the same time, Mera Peak has fewer technical challenges, so you can expect a gradual climb with basic trekking skills. The route is straightforward and more accessible for beginners and those without extensive mountaineering backgrounds.

While both offer unique experiences, Mera Peak is the easier option for those new to climbing and learning the peak's natural nature. Each peak offers its own set of unique experiences, sure to intrigue any climbing enthusiast.

To wrap up, Island Peak and Mera Peak are once-in-a-lifetime experiences to embark on in the lap of the Himalayas. Adventurers with a passion for climbing can have the best experience on these trekking peaks.

For a better experience, it’s recommended to hire a trekking operator with expertise and experience, such as Nepal Vision Treks. Feel free to reach out for expert guidance and advice for your next peak climbing and trekking adventure.

FAQs

The success rate for climbing Island Peak is found to be over 85%when climbers follow a well-structured itinerary that includes acclimatization at Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar.

Island Peak is less challenging than Everest. While it offers technical climbing sections, it is much shorter and requires less altitude acclimatization compared to Everest, which stands at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) and demands extensive climbing experience and skills.

Typically, supplemental oxygen is not required for climbing Island Peak, as most climbers summit without it. But, climbers should be well-acclimatized to handle the altitude effectively.

Yes, Island Peak can be attempted by beginners who are physically fit and have some basic trekking experience. While prior climbing skills are beneficial, they are not mandatory if climbers are prepared mentally and physically.

The Mera Peak Trek usually takes about 18 to 20 days, including acclimatization days and travel time. The trek involves a longer approach compared to Island Peak due to its remote location.

Yes, climbers can enjoy stunning views of Mount Everest from the summit of Mera Peak, along with views of other notable peaks like Makalu and Lhotse.

While difficulty can be subjective, Ama Dablam is often considered one of the hardest trekking peaks in Nepal due to its technical challenges and steep ascents.

Pokalde Peak is frequently regarded as one of the easiest trekking peaks in Nepal. It is suitable for beginners looking for a less technical climbing experience.

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