Is Mera Peak Harder than Kilimanjaro?

Is Mera Peak harder than Kilimanjaro?

Mera Peak and Kilimanjaro are more challenging to climb, display an array of difficulties, and demand different skill sets. If we have to compare the difficulty of Mera Peak and Kilimanjaro, we should keep the following things in mind: 

1, Altitude

Kilimanjaro and Mera Peak are high-altitude mountains; however, Mera Peak stands out as taller. The highest elevation of Kilimanjaro is 5894 meters, which is 19341 feet, and Mera Peak's height is 6476 meters, which is 21247 feet. The height difference makes climbing Mera Peak more challenging than climbing Kilimanjaro. In addition, Mera Peak's high altitude can increase the threat of altitude-related illness. 

2, Duration

Mera Peak's hiking journey typically lasts between 18 and 20 days, depending on the pace of hikers. As it is a multi-day hiking adventure, the days also include time for acclimatization. Depending on the path taken, it usually takes around 7 to 9 days to complete the hiking journey of Kilimanjaro, which also relies on the pace of hikers. Here, we can say that Mera Peak is more challenging as it takes more time and may create hindrances as it increases the climb’s mental and physical challenges.

3. Technical Challenges

While climbing Mera Peak, you do not need any specialized climbing gear or expert mountaineering abilities since Mera Peak is a trekking peak. However, you may need ice axes, Crampons, and fixed ropes in some places on Mera Peak, generally when you are close to the top. On the other hand, Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, which means that it requires neither technical climbing expertise nor equipment or gear. The ascent of Kilimanjaro requires more basic climbing skills than hardcore technical mountaineering skills, as the climbers will be walking on already established paths.

4, Climate and terrains

The climate and terrain are entirely different on both Mera Peak and Kilimanjaro. The reason is where it is situated. Mera Peak lies in the Himalayas, where the climbers must deal with cold temperatures, glaciers, snow, and possibly dangerous weather conditions. Conversely, Kilimanjaro has a more moderate climate and transitions from one vegetation type to another as the climbers climb, from rainforest to alpine desert. Since trekking to Kilimanjaro is less challenging due to its terrain, trekkers have to stick to well-established paths as they climb Kilimanjaro.

Which is the best season for the Mera Peak climb?

The best seasons for Peak climbing are typically during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) periods. 1.1 Spring (March to May): This is one of the most popular times for Mera climbing. The weather is generally stable, and the temperatures are moderate. The days are warmer, but can still be very cold at night and at higher altitudes. Spring is also when the rhododendrons and other flowers bloom, adding to the trek's beauty. 1.2 Autumn (late September to November): This is another excellent time for climbing Mera Peak. During this period, the monsoon rains have cleared the sky of dust, making it crystal clear. The mountain views are spectacular, and the weather is usually stable with less chance of snow or rain. The temperatures are cooler than in spring but still relatively mild compared to winter. The summer months (June to early September) are usually not recommended for Mera Peak due to the monsoon season, which can bring heavy rains, potential landslides, and poor visibility. The winter months (December to February) can be an option for experienced climbers well-prepared for extreme cold and potentially harsh weather conditions. Still, it's generally considered a more challenging time to climb due to the snow and freezing temperatures. Looking at the above factors, we can consider Mera Peak Trek harder and more difficult than Kilimanjaro. Nevertheless, it is necessary to note that individual experiences may differ due to different factors such as physical fitness, prior altitude experiences, and many more.