Mera Peak & Everest "4 Passes"

Nepal

May 2026

In 2026 I used 6 weeks between jobs to head out to Nepal and go trekking in the Himalaya. I started with the Manaslu circuit, then wanted to find a second trek which would push me to the limits of what my body is capable of, and bring me to a landscape that was worth every bit of it. This is that.

Everest 3 Passes is a challenging trek though still quite a popular tourist route. Mera peak at 6470m is the highest non technical/"trekking" peak that is commonly attempted, and the route to join them together over the Ambulapcha pass is remote and probably the most technically challenging part of the whole thing. I booked it through the same company that I did Manaslu circuit with which meant I had the same guide, Som. I also had a porter, Prem (known as Syla), and between Mera and Ambulapcha an additional "climbing guide" Dorje. So a full team all dedicated to getting me round safely - quite a different prospect to my usual just-me-and-a-map approach! Prior to this trip I've done a lot of walking and quite a bit of winter mountaineering at home in Scotland. I know how to use an ice axe and a rope. The big unknown was the altitude, and how I would fare in a land of Himalayan giants.

Part 1: Mera Peak

A journey through forests and rain clouds to rock and snow. AKA, the very gradual gaining of a lot of altitude.

Part 2: the Four Passes

Exploring a land of glaciers and high mountains. Epic views and challenges to match them.