Attractive Pikey Peak Trek - 10 Days

Pikey Peak
Duration
10 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4,065 m
Group Size
1-20 People
Starts/Ends
Kathmandu - Kathmandu
Communication
Phone & Wi-Fi
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
Autumn, Spring & Winter

Pikey Peak standing at 4,065 meters in the lower Everest Region, Solukhumbhu offers you the best of two worlds’ tranquility and stunning natural beauty. It is less traveled compared to the more popular Everest and Annapurna Base Camp treks, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both peaceful trails and breathtaking views.

According to legend, Pikey Peak was one of Sir Edmund Hillary’s favorite treks. Passing through several Sherpa and Tamang settlements, the trail leads to Junbesi, which is located on the oldest traditional route to Everest Base Camp- an alternative route for those who prefer to avoid the turbulent flight to Lukla. You will experience the rich culture, age-old traditions, delicious food, and unique way of life that characterizes the Sherpa-inhabited region.

The route to Pikey Peak is largely an off-the-beaten path that takes you through charming village lanes. From the summit, you can witness the sun glistening on the white snow of the magnificent Himalayan range, including such peaks as Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, and Gaurishankar. The summit offers a stunning panoramic view—one side showcases seven of Nepal's eight tallest mountains, while the other reveals rolling hills reminiscent of the European Alps.

The Pikey Peak Trek is considered a moderate trek and is accessible even to novice trekkers. It can be completed in 8 to 10 days or 6 to 7 days for more experienced trekkers. The trails are adorned with prayer flags, and you’ll pass several Buddhist Gumbas, stupas, and monasteries that showcase the rich Buddhist culture of the region.

Pikey Peak is a truly rewarding trek with the diverse sceneries it offers, from snow as well as green hills, paddy fields, rhododendron forests, Sherpa and Tamang culture.

Discover the hidden gem of the Pikey Peak Trek, where a wealth of diverse experiences awaits you: from panoramic views and diverse vegetation to unique cultural encounters.

Highlight:

  • Enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Everest (8,848m) and the surrounding mountain ranges, including  Kanchenjunga (8,586m) Makalu (8,448m), Gaurishankar (7,134m), sishapangma (8,027m), Thamserku (6,608m), Kangtega (6,685m), Khatang (6,853m), Ama-dablam(6,812m), and others.
  • Visit Buddhist monuments like Thuptenchholing Gumba and Chiwong Gumba and learn more about the Buddhist principles, culture, tradition and architecture.
  • Explore the monasteries and take time to connect with the universe with a short meditation session in the lap of the Himalayas. 
  • Discover the charm of Dhap by wandering through its vibrant market, connecting with the locals, and indulging in the delicious local cuisine.
  • Experience snow as well as green hills, paddy fields, and rhododendron forests.
  • Pass through soulful villages, and take a close look at the everyday lives of people shaped by Buddhist traditions living in the foothills of the Himalayas.
  • Experience the warm hospitality of the local Sherpa & Tamang communities, offering insights into their culture, customs, and ways of life.

What is it like trekking to Pikey Peak?

Our 10-day Pikey Peak Trek begins at Dhap Bazaar (2,850 meters), a charming village with blue-roofed houses, which is about an 8-hour drive from Kathmandu Valley. 

We pass by several villages like Sigane (2660m), Jhapre (2820m), and Bhulbhule (3365m), stopping by small teahouses for a warm taste of the Himalayas, whether it be tea, coffee, or soup. Along the route, if the weather allows, you’ll catch an early glimpse of Numbur Chuli. From Bhulbhule we accent further to Pikey Peak Base Camp (3640 meters) and finally summit the peak at 4065 meters early in the morning to catch the ethereal view of the sun rising over the snowy landscape.  

After enjoying the sunrise view from the summit, we descend to Jasmane Bhanjyang (3520 meters) and head toward Junbesi (2680 meters), passing by Kande, Lamjura La, and Taktor. During the journey, we encounter almost cinematic views of rolling hills filled with grazing cows and yaks. From Junbesi we take a short detour towards the Thuptenchholing Gumba (around 3000m), a historically important monastery whose origin dates to the 1960s. We come back to Junbesi for the night and head to Phaplu (2417m) the next morning. At Phaplu, the final destination for the trek, we can visit another Buddhist monument, the Chiwong Monastery. And later we catch a bus or a flight back to Kathmandu to conclude the journey. 

Major attractions of Pikey peak trek

A close view of some of the tallest mountains in the world: From the Pikey Peak summit, we get a close 360-degree view of seven 8000-meter peaks like Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Annapurna, Lhotse, and sishapangma among others. The view of the mountains, especially during sunrise, is breathtaking. You can’t help but feel stunned as you see these towering mountains rise right before your eyes. It evokes a deep sense of awe and makes you want to contemplate the vastness and grandeur of nature.

Insights into the Buddhist culture, traditions, and architecture: The trekking route in this lower Everest region is rich with Buddhist heritage. Along the way, we encounter several Buddhist gumbas, monasteries, and stupas. Visitors can not only explore these sites but also request to stop for a short meditation break. Buddhism is the major religion of the people living in the region. We also take a short detour to visit the Thuptenchholing Gumba, one of the largest monasteries of Nepal, home to over 900 monks and nuns. It is a site with not only spiritual significance but also historical significance, as it was established by the honorable Trulsik Rinpoche after he fled from Tibet.

Scenic landscapes: The journey spans elevations ranging from 1,324 meters (Kathmandu) to 4,065 meters (Pikey Peak summit), offering a variety of landscapes, vegetation, and weather conditions. The adventure begins even before the trek starts. Our journey from Kathmandu to Dhap Bazar is filled with snake-like winding roads, rivulets, forests, and green hills. The drive itself is scenic, and you wouldn't want to take your eyes off the window. On our way to Dhap, we pass by Okhaldhunga, a town renowned for its natural beauty and immortalized by the Nepali romantic poet Siddhi Charan Shrestha. This adds a Nepalese charm to the journey.

Attractive Pikey Peak Trek - 10 Days Itinerary
Kathmandu - KathmanduExpand all

Welcome to Nepal! Day one of the Pikey Peak adventure starts with your arrival in Kathmandu. We will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your confirmed accommodation located in the vibrant Thamel.

After you have checked in, you can plan this day according to your needs—take some rest, stroll around the local areas, discover nearby food or coffee places, or explore the bustling marketplace. Day one is a perfect time to finish any last-minute shopping, from trekking shoes to snow-friendly jackets in the infamous Thamel Bazar.

Max Altitude: 1,455 m. Above the sea level Accommodation: 2-3 Star hotelMode of Travel: Pickup from the airport by car/vanDuration: 20 to 30 MinutesDistance: 5/6 Kilometers

On day two, our knowledgeable guide will take you around Kathmandu, giving you insights about the cultural and historical importance of the sites. You will visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Boudhanath Stupa. 

Later in the day, we will conduct a detailed briefing about the trek, covering essential aspects such as the route, weather conditions, local communities, safety guidelines, and procedures for luggage handling and porter services.

Max Altitude: 1,455 m. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 2-3 Star hotelMode of Travel: Private car/van with tour guideDuration: 5/6 Hours

Day three involves a road trip from Kathmandu to Dhap Bazar, which is about 240 kilometers away. The drive is around 8 to 9 hours long and takes us through snake-like winding roads, green hills, forests, terraced farmlands, rivers, and rivulets. From Okhaldhunga (1560m) the road steadily climbs uphill to reach Dhap, in around 3 hours

We end the day’s travel at the beautiful blue-roofed village of Dhap, taking some well-needed rest from the long drive and gathering energy for the next day. At Dhap we can take short morning or evening walks to explore the local area and market.

Max Altitude: 2,935 m. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse or lodgeMode of Travel: Private jeep/vanDuration: 8 to 9 HoursDistance: 240 Kilometers

Fourth day of our journey, we officially begin our trek from a ridgeline south of Dhap, on our way to Jhapre, we first pass through the small village of Sigane (2,660m). If the weather permits, we may catch an early glimpse of the stunning Numbur Mountain Range. 

Continuing our journey, we pass by Phokte Danda before arriving at Jhapre. The first few hours of the trek follow a road under construction. The path is mostly even in this section of the trek and it takes approximately 4 to 5 hours Jhapre. We rest for the day at Jhapre where we may have the opportunity to witness traditional Tibetan Buddhist rituals at the local monastery.

Max Altitude: 2,920 m. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or LodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 11 Kilometers

On this day, we set our sights for Pikey Peak Base Camp (3,640m). Along the way, we pass several monasteries, stupas, and a mani wall—a long structure made of stones inscribed with Buddhist mantras. In this part of the trek, the trail becomes slightly uphill with some steep slopes.

We also come across a cheese factory where you can buy yak cheese to enjoy for the rest of the journey. The trail ascends through grassy ridges and forested terrain, which, during spring, are painted red with rhododendrons. After approximately six hours of trekking, we reach Pikey Peak Base Camp, where we rest for the night.

Max Altitude: 3,640 m. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or LodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 5 to 6 HoursDistance: 14 Kilometers

Day 5 undoubtedly would be the most memorable day of the journey, as we summit Pikey Peak at an altitude of 4,065m early in the morning, just as the roosters’ crow. The view from the peak is breathtaking—over a dozen towering mountains stand before us like pillars of the universe. From this vantage point, we can see all of Nepal’s 8,000-meter peaks except for Cho Oyu.

After witnessing a stunning sunrise, we return to base camp for a meal before continuing our journey towards Jasmane Bhanjyang. The 7-hour trek to Jasmane Bhanjyang passes through yak pastures and ancient yak shelters.

Max Altitude: Ascend 4,065 m. and Descend 3,550 m. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or LodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 4 to 5 HoursDistance: 5 Kilometers

Day 7, we move towards Junbesi. Along the way, we cross villages like Lamjure La and Taktor and hike through dense rhododendron and oak forest before descending to Junbesi. Junbesi is home to the Sherpa community and lies along the oldest traditional route to Everest. 

After a brief lunch in Junbesi, we ascend to visit the Thupten Choling Monastery located at 3000 meters , founded by the revered Trulshik Rinpoche after fleeing Tibet.At the monastery, we can explore its serene surroundings, take a short meditation session, and interact with Buddhist nuns. Later, we descend back to Junbesi to spend the night. The total trek for the day takes approximately 7 to 8 hours.

Max Altitude: 2700 m. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or LodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 5 to 6 HoursDistance: 11 Kilometers

The final destination of our trek is Phaplu. The trail from Junbesi to Phaplu descends along the Junbesi Khola, crossing a suspension bridge before reaching Beni Ghat. As we leave behind the Rolwaling region, home of the Sherpa’s, we continue our journey to Phaplu, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.

If time allows, we can visit the Chiwong Monastery, a significant Buddhist site located about 3 km from Phaplu. Phaplu also serves as a gateway to another iconic trek—the Everest Base Camp trek. We settle in at Phaplu for the night.

Max Altitude: 2,470 m. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or LodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 4 to 5 HoursDistance: 11 Kilometers

We enjoy an early breakfast and quickly explore the local marketplace. You can buy some Buddhist incense, yak cheese, or other souvenirs to take home. Phaplu also has an airport, though it is less busy than the Lukla airport. You can choose to take a flight back to Kathmandu or drive, enjoying the view of the Nepalese countryside and breathing in some fresh mountain air.

As we bid farewell to the mountains, we embark on an 8-hour drive back to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,455 m. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: 2-3 Star hotelMode of Travel: Local van/jeepDuration: 8 to 9 HoursDistance: 266 Kilometers

After returning to Kathmandu, you can choose to extend your journey by exploring other remarkable destinations in Nepal, such as the historic city of Bhaktapur, the serene lakeside town of Pokhara, or the lush jungles of Chitwan National Park. 

Alternatively, if you are heading back home, you will depart with unforgettable stories that last a lifetime. We will arrange transportation to drop you at the airport, ensuring a smooth journey to your next destination.

Max Altitude: 1,455 m. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: check out at hotelMode of Travel: Drop to the airport by car/vanDuration: 20 to 30 MinutesDistance: 5/6 Kilometers
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Cost Details
Includes
  • In-country Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle.
  • Standard accommodation at a hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
  • Heritage side or city tourist area tour guided in Kathmandu by private car.
  • Internal Surface transfer to the trip destination, Start and End, or Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
  • One professional, experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking Local Guide during the trek.
  • Porters to carry your luggage up to 25 kg (per 2 trekkers, 1 porter).
  • All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, the main courses).
  • Best available accommodations in lodges (Guest houses) during the trek.
  • Staff salary, insurance, equipment, domestic travel airfare, food, and accommodation during the trek.
  • All necessary paperwork, National park entry permits & TIMS permit or rural municipality permit.
  • Water purification tablets to purify your water during the trek for safe drinking water.
  • Medical first aid kit for all (carried by your guide).
  • All our government local taxes/VAT, and office expenses.
  • Seasonal fresh fruit desserts are available every evening after dinner.
  • Appreciation of ART’s certificate after your successful trek.
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and a duffel bag – if Necessary (return after the trek).
  • Complimentary free company T-shirt and trek route map.
  • Emergency rescue operation assistance will be arranged in case of complex health conditions, which is funded by your travel insurance.

 

Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa fee, you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport.
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory) has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation.
  • Meals (lunch & dinner in Kathmandu) before and after the trek.
  • Your personal expenses, drink water, hot and cold drinks, bar bills, Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charges.
  • Personnel trekking and climbing equipment.
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
  • Excess baggage charges during a domestic flight.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Optional trips and sightseeing if extended.
  • Gratitude to the guides, porters, and other staff.
  • Any other services that are not listed in the price “included section” of this package.

Note:

-The schedule of travel itinerary will be changeable if travelers are required before booking confirmation.

-For the trip booking confirmation, travelers should be paid in advance 25% of the total amount 2 months before.

Dates & Availability

We welcome travelers at Iconic Himalaya Adventure from all over the world, offering fixed departure-oriented services and customized private tours and trekking packages as your convenience. Once more, we inform you, individuals, families, friends, students, and adventure-seeking groups that we strive to meet the expectations of everyone to ensure a personalized travel experience.

Essential Information

Who can do the Pikey Peak Trek?

The Pikey Peak trail offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path adventure, taking us through village lanes. It is a relatively even route with only a few steep or challenging slopes. It is rated moderate on the difficulty scale and is easier compared to other popular treks such as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp. This makes it accessible to even those with zero prior trekking experience, older trekkers, and even children (above 10 years). We walk around 5-6 hours daily to ensure we get a good mix of distance and leisure time to explore the surroundings. No special training is needed to complete the trek. However, you can always prepare for the trek by indulging in basic stretching, endurance exercises, or running and swimming a few days before you start the trek. This can help prepare your body for the enjoyable yet physically demanding days to come.

Additional Services

Throughout the trek, you will be staying in traditional lodges run by local people with comfortable bedding, fresh and hot food cooked as per your order. The lodges are kept clean and comfortable and have all basic needs covered. However, at any point of the trek, the following additional services are also available:

  • Single rooms or suites (if available) during your trek,
  • Additional services during the treks in lodges such as Wi-Fi, charging stations, and hot showers.
  • Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu for a more immersive walkthrough of historic sites in Kathmandu Valley,
  • Helicopter tour (sightseeing) from Phaplu to Everest base camp, back to Kathmandu.

Please note that the cost of these add-ons is not included in the package.

As a note, hot showers are often heated by gas so we insist you are careful of any gas leakages and do not take too long of a shower to avoid any incidents.

Permits for the Pikey Peak Trek

Before you begin the trek, you will need to get the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card which is mandatory for all trekkers visiting from outside Nepal. Since this trek is inside the Gauri Shankar Dudha Kunda National park, you would also need a permit for entry to the park. Permits will be obtained for you with the cost of the permits being included in the total package.

Medical Travel Insurance

It is mandatory for all foreign nationals to have medical travel insurance during the trek in cases of emergency such as severe illnesses or helicopter evacuations. You will not be able to apply for permits without medical insurance.

Altitude Sickness

The term ‘altitude sickness’ is a scary one for many trekkers. It is an acute condition that occurs when trekkers and mountaineers ascend to higher altitudes too fast, which in turn does not allow the body to adjust to the lower concentration of oxygen in the air. Symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, vomiting, nausea, difficulty breathing and sleeping, appetite loss, lethargy, and lack of coordination.

Usually, there is no need to panic because as long as trekkers take their time on the trail and ascend gradually, they will not have altitude sickness. It is recommended for trekkers to drink plenty of water on the trail (a minimum of 3 liters per day is recommended), reduce caffeine intake, and avoid smoking and alcohol during the trek to keep hydrated and reduce the chances of altitude sickness. If, at any point, during the trek, you feel unwell or start showing symptoms of altitude sickness, you need to let your guide know immediately to get proper care and attention.

Food and Accommodation

The charm of trekking in the Pikey Peak trek is the indigenous settlements that have called this region their home for centuries. You get the best of both worlds as you experience the hospitality of mountain villages and the magnificent natural landscapes Nepal has to offer. While food and accommodation may seem simple compared to the city, they are also charming in their ways.

  • The most popular and readily available meal would be your standard rice and lentils with any available vegetables in the hills. There are standardized menus in each lodge where you can have a variety of different items like noodles, bread, pancakes, and fried rice. Most trekkers also prefer to stock up on their favorite snacks (nuts, seeds) and bars (granola, chocolate) from home to eat while on the trail.
  • The accommodations are simple but clean and cozy. Most rooms have double beds, and you will need to spend extra if you want a single-bed room.
  • Water is provided which you can add water purification tablets to (it is not required, but many use it for precaution) since it costs extra to buy bottled water.
  • Additional services like Wi-Fi and charging stations are available at an additional cost.
  • For showering, you will need to pay for hot water if needed.
  • While lodges nearer to the start of the trek may have commodes, the majority of toilets in the trail would be squat toilets.

When can I do the pikey peak trek?

Spring and autumn are, by far, the most popular times for people who want to trek in Nepal. However, this does not mean the trails close during summer and winter and many prefer to trek in these seasons for a more peaceful and authentic trekking experience.

Spring: In spring (March to May), you will be able to walk through lush forests and landscapes full of flower blooms (including the national flower, Rhododendron). The weather is mild during this time and the skies remain clear, allowing you to see amazing mountain vistas with snow-capped mountains.

Summer: The summer or monsoon seasons (June to August) may prove a little dangerous due to risks of landslides, heavy rain, and high humidity, but it is also when the hills and mountains come alive with flowers, verdant forests, raging waterfalls, and roaring rivers.

Autumn/Fall: Autumn (September to November) is also another ideal time to trek in Nepal and pikey peak. It is the season of festivals with mild weather. People are in high spirits because of the festivals, and the skies remain clear during this time, allowing you to see mountains in all their glory.

Winter: The winter months of December to February are colder and frigid compared to the other months of the year but it is also a popular time for those who seek adventure and thrill in their treks. The snow filled mountains and terrain are a sight to behold and simply breathtaking during this time.

What to pack for the pikey peak trek?

In order to avoid last minute packing, we have a list of things you would need for the trek. However, if you miss anything from the list below, Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal we will visit, will have all your trekking essentials for you to purchase.

  • Clothes: Underwear, thermal layer, trekking shirt and pants, fleece jacket, down jacket, windbreaker/waterproof jacket and pants, cotton socks, woolen socks, neck warmer or scarf, gloves, sunhat, beanie or winter hat, ear muffs, trekking boots, flip flops/sandals, microfiber towel (or any towel that dries fast)
  • Trekking Gear: Trekking poles, daypack, duffel bag, sleeping bag, sunglasses, reusable water bottle or hydration packs (or both!), map, guidebook, headtorch, travelers' knife, waterproof bag for important documents (in case of rain or snow)
  • Toiletries and First Aid: Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer, wet wipes, toilet paper, soap and shampoo bar, comb, toothpaste and brush, deodorant, antiseptic cream, band-aid, pain relief spray, water purification tablets, general medicine (for indigestion, pain relief etc), oral rehydration salts, electrolytes, insect repellent, allergy medicine or inhaler (if required), knee brace or compressor (if required), hand sanitizer
  • Miscellaneous: Adapter, charger, power bank, camera (if you are bringing one), spare batteries for your camera, snacks, journal/pen, travel insurance document, passport, visa, passport-sized photos, cash
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