Pikey Peak Trek
Trip Facts
Duration
5
Trip Grade
Easy
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4,065 meters (13,335 feet)
Group Size
1-15 Pax
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
March, April, May and Oct, Nov
Overview
Pikey Peak Trek provides outstanding Himalayan views and access to unique Sherpa culture, all along mountain trails that are easy to trek and far less crowded than other options. It is located in the lower Solu region of the Everest trekking area and features a peak that sits at 4,065 meters (13,336 feet). Trekking to the peak rewards trekkers with one of the Sunrise view spots in the entire Himalayan range. The Pikey Peak Vista is clear on all of the major mountains in the range, with views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Cho Oyu and the rest of the Himalayas, as well as the Numbur and Gaurishankar ranges. The view is so good that Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to summit Everest, called the sunrise from Pikey Peak one of his best Everest views.
The Pikey Peak Trek also showcases many Sherpa settlements, ancient monastic sites, and forests made up of oak and pine. This trek differs so much from the Everest Base Camp Trek that you can enjoy a much better and much more traditional experience trekking through the Himalayas. Along the way, you can enjoy the hospitality of the Sherpa people, ancient monasteries, yaks and everything else that the changing mountain scenery has to offer, all of which is a feast for the eyes.
This trek can be done in 7 to 9 days, starting with a drive to Dhap Bazaar and then walking the already defined pathways that lead to Jhapre, Pikey Base Camp, Junbesi, and Phaplu back to Kathmandu. This trek is of moderate difficulty and therefore is good for a beginner with an average fitness level, and also for an experienced trekker who is looking for a shorter trek. The daily walks are of 5-7 hours. The climb is gradual, which helps avoid altitude sickness.
The best seasons to do the Pikey Peak Trek are in Spring from March to May, and in Autumn from September to November. During this period, the weather is not unstable, there is low cloud cover, and the views of the mountains are better. The days are not as hot in Autumn as the leaves are turning and the day visibility is better. Trekkers who prefer quiet trails and are ok with cold temperatures should consider a Winter trek. The scenery is white and crisp.
Trekking is about experiencing the culture, nature, and tradition of the Himalayas. With the combination of local Sherpa guides and planned itineraries that put emphasis on your comfort and safety, we are sure that your trek will be pleasant and memorable. The Pikey Peak Trek is a great option for those wishing to experience their first trek in the Himalayas or for those wishing to avoid the more popular and busy trekking routes in Nepal. The Pikey Peak Trek is a great option for those wishing to experience their first trek in the Himalayas or for those wishing to avoid the more popular and busy trekking routes in Nepal.
Tour Highlights
- Gorgeous sunrise and stunning views higher than the clouds.
- Over 800 people have already reached the summit with us.
- Away from the busy trails within the quiet forests.
- Experience the real Sherpa culture and their hospitality.
- See and visit the historic monasteries.
- You can see and visit the colourful prayer flags.
- Sherpa villages await you, as well as tea houses.
- You are able to stay at tea houses along the trail.
- Enjoy the local food with each tea house you visit.
- You'll have a moderate trek with us.
- The Sherpa Trailblazers team guarantees you an unforgettable experience.
Why Choose us ?
We are committed to providing safe, comfortable, and memorable trekking experiences in Nepal. Our focus is on customer satisfaction, safety, and authentic local experiences. With a professional team and well-managed services, we make sure your journey in the Himalayas is smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
- 24/7 Customer Support u2013 Get help anytime during your trek
- Safety First u2013 Equipped with hyperbaric chambers, oximeters, AED, and first aid kits
- Trusted & Certified u2013 Registered with Nepal Tourism Board, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, and Nepal Mountaineering Association
- No Hidden Costs u2013 All taxes, airport transfers, and fees included
- Local Sherpa Team u2013 Experienced guides with deep knowledge of the region
- Free Cooking Classes u2013 Learn to make momo, dal bhat, and thukpa
- Cultural Experience u2013 Connect with local traditions and communities
- Social Media Updates u2013 Share your trekking journey with family and friends
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap via Local Jeep
Transportation: jeep
Travel Duration: 6-8 hours
Accommodation: tea house
Activities: Driving
Maximum Altitude: 2,850 m
Your Pikey Peak Trek itinerary begins after breakfast with an overland journey from Kathmandu to Dhap, where your trek to the lower Everest region begins. The Local Jeep journey is your opportunity to leave the busy capital city behind and drive through the beautiful countryside with its view of the traditional villages, farming fields, rapid rivers, and forested hills. The road goes higher into the Solu region of Nepal, granting you the opportunity to witness the beauty of the Himalayas. After a long but beautiful day of driving, Dhap will be your home for the night. Tea houses will be your place of eating and sleeping. Take advantage of this time to rest before the hike.
Day 2: Trek from Dhap to Jhapre
Transportation: on foot
Travel Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: tea house
Activities: Trekking
Maximum Altitude: 2,820 m
After breakfast get ready to start your hike. The path leads you through a mix of pine and rhododendron forests. You will pass ridges and little farming settlements. You will be rewarded with beautiful views of Numbur Himal, and on good weather days, views of Everest. This path leads you through Tibetan prayer flags and grazing yaks, showing you a taste of Himalayan culture. You will then reach the lovely Sherpa village of Jhapre, which has an ancient monastery and beautiful views of the mountains. Enjoy the hospitality of the locals. You will stay in a tea house for the night.
Day 3: Trek from Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp
Transportation: on foot
Travel Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: tea house
Activities: Trekking
Maximum Altitude: 3640 m
Today's trek again climbs up through peaceful Rhododendron and Pine forests, eventually leading to wide, open alpine meadows. As elevation is gained, views of the Himalayas become better. This region of Pikey Peak is still calm and peaceful despite the yak pastures and ever present Buddhist prayer flags. You will arrive in Pikey Base Camp, which is beneath the summit of Pikey Peak, in the late afternoon. Prepare for the trek to the summit of Pikey Peak the next day by soaking in the sunset.
Day 4: Ascend to Pikey Peak, then Trek to Salleri via Jasya Bhanjyang and Loding 4,065 m
Transportation: on foot
Travel Duration: 5-7 hes
Accommodation: tea house
Activities: trekking
Maximum Altitude: 2350 m
Hike to Pikey Peak before dawn to catch the early morning spectacular sunrise above the horizon. Sunrise in the Himalayas is truly a once in a lifetime experience. You will get a beautiful panoramic view of all the greats, including Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Gaurishankar, and many other Himalayan peaks. After capturing sunrise and your panoramic view, start your trek back down to Jasya Bhanjyang, then continue on to Loding Village, passing through stunning forests and traditional Sherpa villages. From here, trek to Salleri, which is the administrative headquarters of the Solu district, and where you can get a well deserved night's rest after completing your trek.
Day 5: Drive from Salleri to Kathmandu by Local Jeep
Transportation: jeep
Travel Duration: 7-8 hrs
Accommodation: 3 star hotel
Activities: driving
Maximum Altitude: 1350 m
Return by Local Jeep or Bus to Kathmandu after breakfast. This drive offers winding views of the hills, river valleys, and traditional villages. Soak in the countryside of Nepal for the last time before it fully fades from memory. You may spend your free time exploring the shops around Thamel (or shopping for last minute souvenirs), or relaxing at the hotel after the drive. This marks the conclusion of your Pikey Peak Trek with Sherpa Trailblazers after a trek full of Himalaya memories and timeless mountain views.
Trip Packing List
Daily Wear
Daily wear includes basic clothing items you will use every day during the trek for comfort and flexibility.
- T-shirts (2)
- Underwear (4)
- Hiking shorts (2)
- Lightweight long pants
- Thermal tops and bottoms
- Inner socks (4)
- Warm wool socks (4)
Trekking Gear
Trekking gear protects you from cold, wind, and rough mountain conditions while ensuring safety and performance during the trek.
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Hiking boots
- Gloves & hat
- Sleeping bag
Personal Care
Personal care items help you maintain hygiene and basic health during the trek.
- Toiletries
- First aid kit
- Sunscreen
Essential Information
The Pikey Peak Trek is located in the lower Everest region of Nepal. This short trek is rewarding, as you can see phenomenal views of the Himalayas without the risk of trekking to dangerous altitudes. This trail passes through many beautiful remote Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, rhododendron forests, and even alpine meadows. This trek can take anywhere from 7-9 days, depending on the speed of your group. Along the way, you can see many Himalayan mountain peaks, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Gaurishankar, and many others. If you are looking for an alternative trek to base camp, this trek offers tea house accommodations and is great for first time trekkers.
Best Time
The best time to trek Pikey Peak is in Spring and Autumn. Spring offers the blooming rhododendrons, while Autumn offers less variable weather. Both of these times of year offer great conditions to get crystal clear views of the mountains. The other seasons vary in the experience. Winter can offer beautiful snow, but it is cold and reduces the number of trekkers. Monsoon is stormy and trekkers remain veiled in poor visibility, but can enjoy the absence of other trekkers.
Difficulty Level
The Pikey Peak Trek is rated as moderately difficult. It is accessible to anyone without any need for climbing skills. Features of the trek include gradual climbs, wooded sections, stone steps, and exposed ridges. Anyone relatively fit can have a successful trek with some optimism. Although the trek to Pikey Peak begins early and involves a significant altitude gain, a steady hiker can easily handle it.
Elevation and Distance
The peak of the trek is Pikey Peak at 4,065 m (13,336 ft). It is estimated that the entire trek averages 55-65 kilometers (34-40 miles). Most trekkers walk between 8 and 14 kilometers every day and have the opportunity to interact with the locals as well as enjoy the views.
Altitude Sickness
Although Pikey Peak is a relatively low peak and sits below the majority of Himalayan peaks, it still can be a risk for altitude sickness to those trekking over 3,000 m. Most trekkers can complete the trek with little to no difficulty if the ascent is gradual, with plenty of water, nutritious meals, and no alcohol. The most common symptoms are headache, dizziness, fatigue, and reduced appetite. Guides from Sherpa Trailblazers will keep an eye on each trekker's welfare and will respond appropriately to any changes.
Maximum and Minimum Walking Hours
Daily walking time for the trek is between 4 to 7 hours. It varies by path and altitude. The shortest tours may take 4 hours, while the longest, an early morning hike to Pikey Peak and then a descent to Junbesi, may take 6 to 7 hours. Many breaks will be given to rest, eat, and take pictures.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at tea houses and mountain lodges run by Sherpa families. Rooms are generally shared by two and have basic amenities that include beds, blankets, and all are very clean and hospitable. Bathrooms are shared in most villages, however, some lodges have private bathrooms. The dining halls have a heating system which helps create a warm and cozy environment after the day’s trek.
Food and Drinks
The tea houses have many meal options, all freshly prepared. Most popular is the traditional Nepali Dal Bhat, which is great for a day of trekking. Other options include fried rice, noodles, pastas, soups, potatoes, momos, eggs, pancakes, breads, porridge, and some vegetables that are in season. For a hot drink, tea, coffee, hot lemon, ginger tea, and hot chocolate are available. For water, it can be purchased in a bottle, filtered, or boiled and served as drinking water in most lodges.
Can a beginner join this trek?
Yes. The Pikey Peak trek is considered one of the best beginner treks in Nepal. It has no strenuous requirements or technical skills involved in the actual trek. Anyone who is in good health with an average fitness level is able to complete the trek with ease. The trek is designed to be done at a comfortable pace. First time trekkers can feel secure in their journey with the support of the Sherpa Trailblazers team.
Trekking Permits
As in all treks, the Pikey Peak trek has specific permits and may require the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (depending on the route selected) and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. Sherpa Trailblazers will gain and take care of the permits prior to the trek, as they have done in the past, so there will be no worries for you.
Preparation and Fitness
Getting a bit of physical fitness prior to the trek is encouraged. Walking, jogging, cycling, gentle swimming and/or hiking are all good to build stamina and endurance. Hiking or doing cardio may also strengthen your legs. No special skills are required to complete the trek, but being physically active will be a benefit and help you complete the daily walks and enjoy the sights of the Himalayas.
Gadgets Charging & Internet
Almost all tea houses on the Pikey Peak Trek have electricity to charge electronic devices, with an additional fee that may apply. Many villages have mobile network coverage, with signal absent in remote areas. Some lodges have Wi-Fi for an additional charge, but the connection is slower than in cities. A power bank is recommended for the trip.
Conclusion
Pikey Peak Trek is one of Nepal’s most fascinating short treks, offering breathtaking mountain views, gorgeous Sherpa culture, tranquil trails, and tea house accommodation. This trek is ideal for novice travelers that wish to have their first experience in the Himalayas as well as for seasoned trekkers who wish to have an experience in a spectacular part of the Everest region away from the crowds. Sherpa Trailblazers focuses on safety, service, and well-trained local guides. They guarantee that you’ll have a fun, memorable trip full of adventure and that you’ll get lifelong memories with every step.
FAQs
Is Pikey Peak Trek appropriate for a beginner?
Definitely, Pikey Peak Trek is great for beginners who are fairly fit. The trails are easy to follow, and the daily walking is not excessive. First-time trekkers also have the advantage of excellent guides from Sherpa Trailblazers.
when is best time to complete the Pikey Peak Trek?
March to May and September to November are the ideal months to trek here. Weather during these months is pleasant for trekking, and the views are clear. Winter is a good season for trekking as well because the trails are less crowded.
What is the Trek difficulty level?
Tikey Peak Trek is moderately difficult. Trekkers will spend roughly 4 - 7 hours per day on well-laid trails. Trekking experience is not necessary as there are no technical climbs.
Which permits are necessary for the Pikey Peak Trek?
Depending on the route, permits may include the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. All permits are arranged by Sherpa Trailblazers before your trek.
Which options for Food and Lodging are available?
Lodging is provided in local tea houses and lodges, and food is Nepali Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, pasta, soup, momos, eggs, pancakes, tea, and coffee.
