Pikey Peak Trek

Destination

Pikey Peak Trek: A Complete Guideline to the Hidden Himalayan Gem of Nepal

Duration

9 Days

Trip Grade

Moderate

Start/End

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Best Seasons

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)

Transport

Private Car/Jeep/Flight

Accommodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Permits

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, TIMS Card

Overview of Trek to Pikey Peak

Pikey Peak Trek, nestled in the heart of the Khumbu Region of Solukhumbu District, is a hidden gem for those who are in the search of adventure and tranquility. The newly discovered trekking trail in the Everest region is a piece of heaven in itself. The panoramic view from Pikey Peak of some of the highest peaks in the world, i.e., Everest, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, and the Kanchenjunga range, is astonishing.

Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the first people to climb Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest), stated that it is one of the most stunning places to witness the breathtaking view of Mount Everest and other snow-crowned mountains of Nepal.

While trekking to Pikey Peak, you can explore the cultural practices of the Sherpa, unique Buddhist monasteries, and elusive flora and fauna of the Himalayas. The trail also leads you across other communities like Rai, Limbu, Tamang, Chhetri, etc.

Trek Highlights: What Makes Pikey Peak Special?

One of the closest and easiest accessible from Kathmandu.
A spectacular view of Everest from Pikey Peak.
Epic panoramic views of snow-crowned peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and many others.
Golden hour sunrise and sunset views from the viewpoints.
A less crowded trekking route with a tranquil trekking experience.
Magnificent Sherpa villages and their way of living and their customs.
Opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Camp outside, taste local cuisine, and interact with welcoming locals.
Pikey Peak Trekking flora and fauna.

Pikey Peak Itinerary and Altitude Elevation Profile

Day	Location	Altitude (meters)	Trek Duration
Day 1	Arrive in Kathmandu	1,300 m	-
Day 2	Kathmandu - Dhap Bajar	2,850 m	7 to 8 hours
Day 3	Dhap Bajar - Jhapre	2,820 m	5 to 6 hours
Day 4	Jhapre - Pikey Peak Base Camp	3,640 m	5 to 6 hours
Day 5	Pikey Peak Base Camp - Pikey Peak Summit	4,065 m	5 to 6 hours
Day 5	Pikey Peak Summit - Jasmane Bhanjyang	3,550 m	5 to 6 hours
Day 6	Jasmane Bhanjyang - Junbesi	2,700 m	4 to 5 hours
Day 7	Junbesi - Phaplu	2,475 m	4 to 5 hours
Day 8	Phaplu - Kathmandu	1,300 m	7 to 8 hours
Day 9	Departure from Kathmandu	1,300 m	-

Pikey Peak Trek Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)

After getting picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will be transferred to a hotel in Thamel or nearby Kathmandu.
Visit around for trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping.
Spend an overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Dhap Bajar (2850 m), Duration 7 to 8 hours

Travel early to Dhap Bajar, which is about 240 km from Kathmandu.
To reach Ghurmi Village, you will go along the route that parallels the Sunkoshi River. You may enjoy the dynamic scenery of the Nepali countryside, which includes terraced rice fields, dense forests, and numerous running rivers, as you travel along the route.
After arriving at Dhap Bajar, you may go through the marketplaces at your own convenience, where you can explore the place.
Spend the night in Dhap Bajar.

Day 3: Dhap to Jharpe (2820 m), Duration 5 to 6 hours

Commence the Pikey Peak Trek, from Dhap Bajar to Jharpe that takes 5-6 hours.
You’ll pause along the way to have a look at beautiful and traditional Buddhist monasteries and the amazing, unspoiled scenery, where orchids grow wildly.
You can witness the fascinating Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies at the nearby monastery when we first arrive at Jhapre.
You will spend the night at Jhapre, an ideal location to rest in a peaceful environment.

Day 4: Jharpe to Pikey Peak Base Camp (3640 m), Duration 5 to 6 hours

Following Jharpe, the Pikey Peak Trek continues to Pikey Peak Base Camp, our next destination.
From the base camp, you will have beautiful views of the Everest range. The route splits shortly past Bhulbhule, and Pikey Peak is reached by turning right. Along the way are several old yak houses and a long Mani stone wall.
Rhododendron trees, which are in blossom if you travel in the spring, one of the best times to visit, may be observed in abundance along this level path.
You can also visit the cheese factory before reaching Pikey Peak Base Camp.

Day 5: Pikey Peak Base Camp to Pikey Peak Summit (4065 m) to Jasmane Bhanjyang (3550 m) 5 to 6 hours

Today will be one of the wonders and one of the most memorable part of this journey of your Pikey Peak trekking adventure as we move towards the summit. From there, we will descend towards Jasmane Bhanjyang.
An early start is necessary to go to the top of Pikey Peak in time to witness the mesmerizing view of sunrise. As the sun starts to rise, you will be rewarded with views of the majestic mountain Thamserku (6623m), which dominates the skyline.
When you turn around, you'll be gifted with a breathtaking view of the entire Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest and six other 8,000-meter peaks that reach as far as the eye can see.
After witnessing the immense beauty, you will return to the base camp, from where the trek proceeds to Jasmane Bhanjyang for an overnight stay.

Note: You can also return from the same path you came from. It will be relatively shorter.

Day 6: Jasmane Bhanjyang to Junbesi (2700 m) 4 to 5 hours

After having your breakfast at Jasmane Bhanjyang, you will move down towards Junbesi.
You will travel through meadows as you enter the forest track. Continue travelling down a wide gravel road until you come to Junbesi. Thupten Chyoling Monastery, lovely tea establishments, and a lively environment greet you at Junbesi.
The village of Junbesi, which is home to the Tamang, Magar, and Sherpa people, offers a serene mountain sanctuary with rivers, a monastery, and snow-capped slopes.
You will have a greater variety of teahouses to pick from after the final few days of trekking, and it's a great place to relax.

Day 7: Junbesi to Phaplu (2475 m) 4 to 5 hours

On day 7, you will descend the dusty Pikey Peak Trekking Trail to Phaplu.
Along the Junbesi River, you will reach the steel suspension bridge. To reach Beni Ghat, you need to cross the suspension bridge. You may enjoy the local food and drinks while taking part in a traditional Sherpa cultural event at Phaplu.

Day 8: Phaplu to Kathmandu, 7 to 8 hours

After having an adventurous journey, on the last day of Pikey Peak Trail Trek, you will return to Kathmandu.
You can either travel via road or fly from the airport in Phaplu, taking in the landscape views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers from the sky.
Spend an overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 9: Departure from Kathmandu

Depending on your travel schedule, you can head to the airport for your international flight to your hometown, taking abundant memories of Solukhumbu Pikey Peak Trek.

Pikey Peak Trek Distance
The total Pikey Peak Trek distance from Kathmandu will be around 515 km (Kathmandu to Dhap: 240 km and Phaplu to Kathmandu: 275 km). However, the walking distance is about 57-59 km. The drive duration of this trip is between 8 to 9 hours each way. The length and distance of the trek also depend on the route that you will choose.
The trekking trail, including all the special attractions, takes you to different scenic places of the lower Khumbu Region. During Pikey Peak Trek, you will walk around 5 to 6 hours per day. However, the duration of the trek also varies depending on weather and trail conditions, fitness and experience level, and your trekking pace.

Pikey Peak Trek Packing List

Pikey Peak Trial Trek difficulty level is moderate, which does not require lots of equipment. However, there are some essentials you must have during the trek.

Hiking boots,
Down jacket,
A couple of hiking pants,
Trekking stick,
Pair of gloves,
Reusable water bottle,
A couple of pairs of hiking socks or more,
Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings,
Sunglasses,
Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters,
Small lock for your backpack,
A proper first aid kit, and
Other needed essentials (medication, toiletries, mobile/camera).

Note: Don’t carry too many goods that will trouble you during the trek. Take only stuff which are important.

Preparing for the Trek: Fitness and Training Tips

Pikey Peak's altitude is at 4065m. Despite being a short and easy trip, you need to be prepared physically as well as mentally.

Take a walk for at least 30 minutes every day for 2-3 weeks.
Do slight full-body workouts 2–3 times a week.
Stretch or do yoga daily for 10–15 minutes.
Take 1–2 rest days per week to recover.
Eat balanced meals with protein, veggies, whole grains, and stay hydrated.

Pikey Peak Trek Best Time: Seasonal Insights

The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December) seasons are the best times for Pikey Peak Trek. Clear skies, excellent visibility, and consistent weather are all features of these months.

Autumn (September to December)

Autumn is considered to be the best time for Pikey Peak Trek. Since there would be the least amount of rain for trekking during this time of year, it is also known as the post-monsoon season. However, since you can see some light rain, you should exercise caution when trekking in September. Trekking is enjoyable in the fall because of the pleasant weather.

The daily temperature in the Everest region varies between 9 and 15 degrees. You will experience a slight decrease in temperature as you go higher. Even when the nights are cold as usual, it can be beneficial to dress warmly. For the Pikey Peak Trek, the ideal weather and temperatures occur in the fall.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is the second-best time of year to trek Pikey Peak Nepal. According to some, this is the time of year when nature is most breathtaking. Spring, which is the pre-monsoon season, is when nature regains its lost splendor. This is the time of year when flowers bloom and new vegetation grows.

Trekking Pikey Peak at this time of year may allow you to see rhododendron forests all around you. There are more trekkers than normal because of the nice weather and temperatures that are available throughout the spring. The daily highs during this time of year range from 10 to 20 degrees. Perhaps there won't be any rain this time.

Pikey Peak Trek Cultural Experiences: Immersing in Wildlife Spotting Opportunities

The Pikey Peak Trek Sherpa villages provides an authentic exploration to their culture. Experience the spiritual practices and peaceful lifestyle of the nuns at Thupten Choling.

You'll come across a number of Peaky Peak Trek monasteries along the way, each of which provides insight into regional religious customs. The local area of the trekking route will introduce you to their unique culture, tradition, and the hidden history people living in the Himalayas.

Pikey Peak Trek wildlife may not be the main highlight, but hikers can still encounter various bird species along the route, including pheasants and Himalayan Monals.

Flora and Fauna: Nature Encounters on the Trail

The diverse flora and fauna along the Pikey Peak trail contribute to the natural attractiveness of the trek. Along the trip, you will pass through thick forests of oak, pheasant, Himalayan Monal, snow leopard, mountain goats, yaks, sheep, and rhododendron trees.

Watch for the elusive wildlife of the Himalayas. You will be left overwhelmed by the captivating show created by the lovely rhododendrons in the spring.

Meals in Pikey Peak Trek

The tea houses in the trial towards the Pikey Peak offers varities of dishes of your choices. The most popular dish along the trail is the traditional Dal Bhat Set (rice, lentil soup, local vegetables, pickles, etc).

In addition, the tea house also offers noodles, local breads, egg (boiled or fried), thukpa, and beverages, including tea, coffee, soft drinks, and so on.

Pikey Peak Trek Accommodation and Facilities Along the Route

Teahouses and lodges will be your accommodations for the Pikey Peak Trek. Locals run the majority of the teahouses and lodges. The majority of teahouses have two or three-bedroom rooms that are clean, comfortable, and maintained properly. They offer cozy blankets and pillows to make your stay more pleasant. They'll get in touch with you, look after your needs, and make the necessary arrangements.

The bathrooms here are mostly available on a shared basis. You can also get a facility of a hot shower, for which you need to pay extra.

For a more adventurous experience, you can carry a tent, sleeping bag, and other essentials for camping outdoors.

What's included:

All ground transport in private vehicles, including airport transfers.
Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
Best available twin-sharing lodge-to-lodge accommodation during the trek, we provide you with an attached bathroom with a hot shower.
One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide; porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
First aid medical kit.
All the required permits are provided.

What's excluded:

Travel insurance.
Snacks and other personal expenses.
International airfare.
Personal trekking equipment.
Nepal entry visa
Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers

Pikey Peak Trek Permits and Regulations

In total you will require to carry two Pikey Peak Trek permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Cost: NPR 2,000 (approx. $15–$20)
Where to get it: You can get it at the entry checkpoint in Lukla or the tourism board office in Kathmandu.
This has replaced the traditional TIMS card in the Khumbu region. It’s required for all trekkers entering the Everest region.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Cost: NPR 3,000 (approx. $22–$25)
Where to get it: Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the park entrance in Monjo.
This is essential for trekking in the Sagarmatha National Park, which includes the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, Chola Pass Trek Nepal, and Gokyo Ri Trekking routes.

Cost Breakdown of Pikey Peak Trek Nepal

Budget: There is no fixed budget because everyone has different needs, and each need has a different cost. The amount depends on how luxurious you want your accommodations, meals, and other services to be.
Transportation: The price will vary based on the type of transportation you choose and the size of your group.
Accommodations and Meals: The cost of your accommodations and meals will depend on the region and your personal preferences. You can eat traditional foods while trekking, such as tarkali (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), dal bhat, Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, local bread, pasta, etc. The lodge has a teahouse where you are sleeping.
Guide and Porter: The experience level will determine how much the guide and porter cost.

Permits: The permit for this trek will cost somewhere between $45 to 60.

How Can the Pikey Peak Nepal Trek Be Booked?

On the website of Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd., you can make reservations for your trek to Pikey Peak Solukhumbu. We'll make sure your time in Nepal is as enjoyable as possible.

Are you interested in booking your Pikey Peak Trek package?

FAQs

Is Pikey Peak worth it?

Definitely, the Pikey Peak Trek is a worthwhile trek. The short trek nestled in the lap of Mount Everest and other 8000+ m mountains is an exclusive adventure to explore tranquility, natural wonders (hills, valleys, rivers), and a pleasant environment.

What mountains can you see from Pikey Peak?

From the Pikey Peak summit, you can witness the epic panoramic view of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and other prominent peaks.

How hard is Pikey Peak?

For trekkers with an acceptable level of fitness, the Pikey Peak Trek is regarded as a moderate trip. In addition to steep ascents to the summit, the trail has various uphill and downhill stretches. However, technical climbing skills are not required.

How high is Pikey Peak in Nepal?

The total Pikey Peak height it 4065 m (13336 feet). The top provides an epic view of the mountain range.

When is the best time to trek Pikey Peak?

The spring, from March to May and autumn between September to December are the ideal times to begin the Pikey Peak Trek. This is the time when the weather is moderate. However, the trek can be done throughout the year.

Do I need permits for the Pikey Peak Trek?

Yes, for international trekkers, you will need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.

Can I trek Pikey Peak solo?

It is not possible to make the trek alone to Pikey Peak, as the government of Nepal do not permit to travel alone in Everest region of nepal. It is not advised, especially when you are unfamiliar with the region or have little expertise trekking at high elevations. In an emergency, a guide can offer important information, support, and help.

What kind of accommodation is available along the trail?

During the Pikey Peak Trek you will find various tea house and lodges as accommodations. Generally, the locals run these tea houses and lodges, who looks after your needs.

How can I prevent or manage altitude sickness during the trek?

To prevent or manage altitude sickness during the Pikey Peak Trek, go slowly and give your body time to adjust. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Eat healthy, energy-rich foods and get enough rest each day. Learn the signs like headache, nausea, and dizziness,, if symptoms get worse, it’s best to go down to a lower altitude.

Is travel insurance necessary for the Pikey Peak Trek?

To complete the Pikey Peak Trek in Nepal, foreign hikers must have travel insurance.

It is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and helicopter evacuation due to the trekking route's isolated location and lack of transportation or medical facilities. This is to ensure that you are immediately rescued in case of emergency situations.