Mera.. complete success.

November 2009 saw a 360 expedition on Mera Peak (6476m) in Nepal. There had been little success by other teams earlier in the season partially due to an unusually late monsoon and extreme cold. Thankfully we timed it right and snow conditions were good but still extremely cold. There were reports of previous groups suffering frostbite so we paid full attention to detail to what kit would help stop us becoming hypothermic and prevent frostbite.
Our group was predominantly Scottish (Miles, Jimmy, Alan, Donny, Sandy) but there were still two from England (David, Lana) and a token Aussie (Adam) who more than made up for being the solitary Australian.

The route we took was stunning. It was a longer route than what most people take to approach the mountain. This allows for improved acclimatisation not to mention the remoteness and beauty encountered along the way.
The group was simply fantastic, what stood out was their attitude which is one of the most important aspects of mountaineering. There was great banter along the way and the group gelled into a proper team early in the expedition. This was complemented by the hand picked local crew who were all phenomenal throughout. Something has to be mentioned of the food. It wasn't just food to keep the group going with much needed energy but each meal was eagerly anticipated as they were always delicious and nutritious. Well done to Genu (Head Chef) and his cook team for helping to keep both the group's energy levels and morale high with his fine cooking.

As we approached the Mera La, which is a pass formed by a magnificent glacier, the ever increasing altitude started to kick in as expected. This was where the group's attitude and team spirit shone through as they stayed focused and determined on their objective, the summit of Mera Peak. The good spirit even allowed an impromtu snowball fight close to 5000m!

Once on the glacier the team was divided into rope teams. A night was spent just below the Mera La and then a further few hours resting at the High Camp, situated on the edge of a rocky outcrop at 5700m. In the early hours of the morning we departed for our summit attempt. The bitter cold (close to minus 30C) was kept at bay by the breathtaking views enjoyed by us all during sunrise. As we were climbing the mountain and the sun was rising we were blessed by not only one of the best views in the Himalaya, but I'd say on the whole of this planet! Before us rose majestically five out of the six highest mountains in the world..... Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu.... all seen in just one panorama!
This inspired the group further to push on and after about 6 hours from leaving High Camp we had all reached the summit!

It was a pleasure climbing with the team and a big well done goes to Miles, Jimmy, Sandy, Alan, Donny, Lana, David and Adam.

Photos of Mera Peak here.