Pikey Peak Trek - 8 Days Itinerary

Trip Facts
  • Duration:8 Days
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Max. Altitude: 4,065m
  • Start at: Kathmandu
  • End at: Kathmandu
  • Group Size: 2 to 24 PAX
  • Best Season: Spring and Autumn

Highlights

  • Newly opened trekking route with less crowd for a tranquil experience
  • Reaching the summit of Pikey Peak, a famous viewpoint for the Mt. Everest
  • Incredible flora and fauna of the protected areas in the Himalayas
  • Most stunning panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and other adjacent peaks
  • Immersive cultural experience across traditional Sherpa settlements
  • A short and relatively easy-grade trekking prospect in the eastern Himalayas
  • Traversing across diverse landscapes from lush rhododendron forests and beautiful terraced farms to cascading rivers-waterfalls and serene alpine pastures

Pikey Peak Trek is one of the most incredible short trekking adventures in Nepal. This newly introduced trekking route in the lower Everest region is growing in popularity for its off-beaten trekking trails farther from the mainstream route and panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan peaks. This trekking peak is considered one of the most spectacular viewpoints from which to admire the beauty of the tallest alpine peak on the planet, Mt. Everest (8,848.86 meters). In fact, this peak was the favorite spot of legendary mountaineer Sir Edmund Hilary to enjoy the view of Everest.

Besides being one of the shortest mountain explorations in the Nepali Himalayas, the difficulty scale of this iconic trek is also pretty much on the milder side. As the journey is incredibly rewarding and there aren’t that many challenging aspects in this trek, it is perfect for trekking enthusiasts who are looking for an easy-going Himalayan journey. The enchanting landscape of the region, exploration of the national park and a conservation area, breathtaking Himalayan vistas, fascinating cultural experience, and the exploration in solitude away from the mainstream crowd, this undoubtedly is one of the most remarkable Himalayan odyssey.

Pikey Peak Trek Difficulty

pikey peak trek

This exciting trekking adventure that takes place in the lower Everest region is considered one of the easiest and least demanding Himalayan endeavors. Pikey Peak Trek difficulty is just at a relatively easier to moderate level. This is one of the shortest and easiest trekking adventures in the Himalayas that doesn’t take you to significant altitudes on the mountain. There is also an absence of a technical section in the trekking route, and even beginner trekkers will complete this short trek without much of an issue.

Still, as this trek takes you to the maximum altitude of over 4,000 meters (alpine zone) at Pikey Peak Summit, you shouldn’t underestimate its challenges. It will be wise to prepare for this short and relatively easy trek like any other high-altitude journey in the Himalayas. The total trekking distance of this short Himalayan trek is about 50 km to 60 km (31 miles to 37 miles). You will need to walk at least 5 to 6 hours on average during the trekking period.

Similarly, even if the altitude gain is not that high in this trip, you will still traverse across the region above 3,500 and 4,000 meters. So, even if the risk of altitude sickness is pretty low on this route, you should still take its precautionary methods and acclimatization seriously.

How to Train for Pikey Peak Trek?

Pikey Peak Trek Difficulty Breakdown

Like any other high-altitude trekking adventure in the Himalayas, you should train for the trekking Pikey Peak in a similar manner. You should consider training for at least 3 to 6 weeks for this trip and stay consistent with your training, allotting a specific time from your daily schedule. If you are not that active physically, you can also extend the training period as per your requirements after assessing your physical capabilities.

Practice hikes are considered one of the most effective ways to prepare for the Himalayan treks. Select the steep hiking section close to you and carry your backpack for your hike. This will not only give you the opportunity to test your gear but will also help you understand the overall trek difficulty and what aspects you need to improve. Your other part of training should emphasize developing your strength, endurance, and stamina aspects.

Strength and Endurance Exercises: Push Up, Squat, Weightlift, Plank, Pull Up, Overhead Press, Bicep Curl, Dip, Front Raise, Calf Raise, Leg Press, etc

Stamina Exercises: Jogging, Cycling, Swimming, Dancing, Jumping Rope, Mountain Climber, Jumping Jack, Burpee, etc

Best Time for Trek

Tips to Minimize Pikey Peak Trek Difficulty

Pikey Peak Trek is a low-altitude and short trekking adventure in the lower Everest region. This trek route is easily accessible via a driving route and doesn’t require flights like the mainstream Everest Base Camp Trek, where you need to take a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. So, this trek can be pretty much done throughout the year in different climatic conditions. However, for the comfortable and memorable, the peak points of the year, autumn (Septemeber to November) and spring (March to April), still take the crown home.

Spring is nature’s season, and the landscapes are decorated with colorful flowers during this period. Your everyday’s exploration will unveil new aspects of Himalayan beauty, and it is also the most appropriate to explore the Himalayan flora of the protected areas in the region. Similarly, the autumn season is particularly popular for the most ideal climatic setting. Days in this season are generally clear, the temperatures pleasant, the walking trails are dry and comfortable, and most of all, this season is the best period for experiencing the cultural side of the country.

This trek can also be done in the off-seasons/low seasons, like monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February). However, during the monsoon season, the wet and slippery trails due to continuous rainfall can be challenging. You will need the right gear and rain-proof layers to overcome the challenges of the rainy season. As for the winter, the temperatures are extremely cold at higher altitudes. It is not possible to trek in this season without thick layers and gear to keep yourself warm. Get more insight on Best Time for Pikey Peak

Who Can Do This Trek?

Is Pikey Peak Trek Right for Me?

As the difficulty level of trekking Pikey Peak Nepal is on the relatively easier side, and it is one of the shortest Himalayan trekking adventures, pretty much anyone can take part in this excursion. There aren’t any physically challenging and strenuous segments along the way, so overcoming the milder trail won’t be a challenge, even for a diverse age group. A good health condition and general fitness will be enough to truly relish this remarkable Himalayan endeavor.

Considering other high-altitude journeys, the trekking distance is also not that significant in this trek, and the itinerary plans are designed for slow-paced walking. So, covering the walking distance won’t be a problem; trekkers will also get enough rest breaks along the way. As for the altitude gain, you will get enough time to acclimatize before climbing to higher regions. So, you don’t have to worry about the risk of altitude sickness and exhaustion during your trip.

The success rate of Pikey Peak Trek is an absolute 100%, and there are no age restrictions on this trek. There are no high passes on the trail and no significant alpine altitudes besides the summit of Pikey Peak. So, anyone determined and willing to put some effort into training will be able to complete this trek quite easily.

Itinerary
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Kathmandu Altitude: 1,400 meters/ 4,593 feet

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our representatives will be present to greet and receive you. They will also help you with your baggage and escort you toward our designated vehicle. Catching a glimpse of the busy city life, you will then head toward your star hotel located in the core part of the capital city.

Our representative will then handle the check-in procedure, and you will be transferred to your room. Depending on your period of arrival, you can get some rest after getting fresh and do some sightseeing around your hotel. You will visit our office located in Thamel Kathmandu during the evening to collect more information about your exciting Himalayan adventure from your guide.

  • Max. Altitude:1,400 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:BLD

Dhap Bazaar Altitude: 2,850 meters/ 9,350 feet

Altitude Gain: 1,450 meters/ 4,757 feet

It’s time to hit the road to get your Himalayan exploration started. After breakfast in the morning in Kathmandu, you will begin your journey toward the Dhap Bazaar. Driving in a comfortable vehicle, you will move along the banks of the Sunkoshi River to reach the Ghurmi Village. Your driving journey will take you across the lush forest, terraced farmlands, cascading rivers and waterfalls, and traditional settlements in the countryside.

Following the winding up trail during the final part, you will then head toward Okhaldhunga, and the trail further ahead stretches to Dhap Bazaar. After a long day’s drive, you can take a stroll around the traditional Sherpa settlements and relish the fresh mountain views before turning in for the night at your designated teahouse.

  • Max. Altitude:2,850 m
  • Accommodation:Tea Houses/Lodges
  • Meals:BLD

Jhapre Altitude: 2,820 meters/ 9,251 feet

Altitude Loss: 30 meters/ 98 feet

Your trekking adventure finally begins on this day. After breakfast at Dhap, you will follow the winding trail across the rolling hills, lush forested trails, and traditional settlements. You will first trek on along the exhilarating trail along the Phokte Danda and head toward the steep valley with terraced farmlands with colorful vegetables. You will then eventually arrive at the Sigane Village, a traditional Sherpa Village.

Pushing further ahead on your uphill route, you will then finally arrive at the Jhapre Village. From this high-altitude village, you will be able to catch the incredible views of Mt. Everest, Numbur, and other eastern peaks.

  • Max. Altitude:2,820 m
  • Accommodation:Tea Houses/Lodges
  • Meals:BLD

Pikey Peak Base Camp Altitude: 3,640 meters/ 11,942 feet

Altitude Gain: 820 meters/ 2,690 feet

Today, you will get close to the main attraction of this lower Everest region exploration. Starting your trek in the morning, you will first trek on the grassy ridge above the village to reach Bhulbhule Village. Following the path to the right from Lhamuje Village, you will then pass across small old herders' settlements and the mani wall to reach the Taklung Danda.

Your descending trail on this section will take you across the scenic rhododendron forest, and you will then push for the Pikey Peak Base Camp. By this point, the views of Everest and other eastern Himalayan peaks are simply magical. As this is a newly introduced trekking route, most parts of the trails are scheduled, and you will be able to embrace the pure Himalayan wilderness as you head toward your destination.

Although the peak is just a couple of hours away and you can climb to the peak on the same day, in the evening, the weather is not that clear. So, you will hike in the morning to enjoy the most exciting Himalayan vistas.

  • Max. Altitude:3,640 m
  • Accommodation:Tea Houses/Lodges
  • Meals:BLD

Pikey Peak Summit Altitude: 4,065 meters/ 13,336 feet

Lamjura Danda Altitude: 3,736 meters/ 12,257 feet

Altitude Gain: 425 meters/ 1,394 feet

It's finally time to push for the summit of this incredible Lower Everest region peak. After breakfast, you will walk past the alpine meadows and rocky terrains on the winding-up trail. During winter, this climbing trail is covered in snow; however, in other seasons, it is generally an easy, straightforward walk. After walking for a while, you will come across the ridge section decorated by the praying flag, and pushing further ahead, you will reach the Pikey Peak Summit.

This summit was the favorite viewpoint of the mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary, the first to reach the top of the highest peak in the world, Mt. Everest, along with his partner Tenzing Norgway Sherpa, on 29th May 1953. He used to describe Pikey Peak as his favorite peak to enjoy the incredible view of Mt. Everest.

From the top of this peak, you will be able to catch the incredible mountain vistas that include magnificent peaks in the Himalayas like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga in its frame on the eastern side. On a clear day, you will be able to enjoy the views of central Himalayan massifs like Annapurna, Manaslu and Dhaulagiri about 800 km farther from here.

Then, after relishing the breathtaking Himalayan ambiance, you will make your from the summit to either Lamjura Danda or Jasmane Bhanjyang across the lush rhododendron forest.

  • Max. Altitude:3,736 m
  • Accommodation:Tea Houses/Lodges
  • Meals:BLD

Junbensi Altitude: 2,700 meters/ 8,858 feet

Altitude Loss: 1,036 meters/ 3,398 feet

After completing your exciting trek, it's time to wrap up your Himalayan journey and make your return from the mountain. From Lamjura, you will walk alongside the ridgeline and continue with the downhill trail. There are several route options for this day’s descending trek; however, the most exciting option is across the Jase Village, which steeply drops to the Taktor Village through the old forest.

Moving further ahead, you will arrive at Jiri where the trekking trail intersects with the mainstream Everest Base Camp Trek on the tradtional route and the rouet that strecthes further ahead takes you to Junbensi Village. As this region shares the trekking route with the traditonal EBC route, the teahouses here are more developed. You will rest tonight at one of the finest teahouse in the Junbensi.

  • Max. Altitude:2,700 m
  • Accommodation:Tea Houses/Lodges
  • Meals:BLD

Phaplu Altitude: 2,413 meters/ 7,916 feet

Altitude Loss: 287 meters/ 941 feet

Continuing with your descending trail, you will move along the dusty trekking route and cross the Junbesi Khola over a steel suspension bridge. After trekking for a while, you will then reach Beni Ghat. Then, moving further ahead on your exciting trekking route, you will reach the Phaplu Village.

This will be your last stop on the mountain, and you will spend your night enjoying the charming Himalayan ambiance and the warmth of this traditional Sherpa village.

  • Max. Altitude:2,413 m
  • Accommodation:Tea Houses/Lodges
  • Meals:BLD

Kathmandu Altitude: 1,400 meters/ 4,593 feet

Altitude Loss: 1,013 meters/ 3,323 feet

This is the last day of your Pikey Peak Trek itinerary; after breakfast at Phaplu Village, you will begin your driving journey back to Kathmandu. The total distance from Phaplu to Kathmandu is approximately around 275 km (170 miles), and the drive will take around 8 hours. During the first part of this day’s drive, the driving trail descends down the lush hills of Solukhumbu to Okhaldhunga.

Then, moving along the banks of the Sunkoshi River, you will drive on the B.P. Highway, heading west to reach the capital city. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can get some rest; in the evening, we will host a farewell dinner to celebrate your successful trek. Thank you for trekking with Green Society Adventure. Have a safe journey!

  • Max. Altitude:1,400 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:BLD
Cost Details
Includes
  • Free airport - hotel - airport pick up and drop off as per itinerary in private vehicle
  • Two-night hotel in Kathmandu on twin-sharing basic.
  • Kathmandu to Dhap and Phaplu to Kathmandu Transportation by local sharing jeep. (Private jeep can be arrange with an extra cost).  
  • Full board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
  • Teahouse or Lodges accommodation during the trek.  
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide). 
  • All salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, drinks, and accommodation for the guide. 
  • Assistance guide for the group of 6 or above. 
  • Trekking equipment: such as a Down jacket, and sleeping bag (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
  • Green Society Adventure's complimentary free T-shirt, route map, and duffle bag (if needed)
  • All necessary paperwork and National Park permits
  • Khumbu-Pasang community entry fee. 
  • Farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with traditional performances. 
  • A comprehensive medical kit/ First-aid kit and an oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse level during the trek. 
  • All government and local taxes
Excludes
  • Local Sherpa porter to carry a backpack, (USD 20 per day.One peoter can carry a backpack for two trekkers).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All bar bills along the trek.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower, etc
  • Tips for guides and porters.
Departure Dates
PLAN TRIP
Useful Information

What Can You Expect During Pikey Peak Trek Days?

Do Pikey Peak Trek in High Season

During your trekking part, you will gradually move along the ascending trail, admiring the fascinating Himalayan beauty that each day of your trek will unveil. Your standard trekking day will begin with an early morning breakfast from around 7 AM to 8 AM. You will then move along the trail led by your guide, checking out the popular highlights.

Advancing further on your trekking trail for around 4 hours, you will then reach your lunch destination. As you had a light breakfast, the lunch menu will be filling and nourishing; eat your fill to replenish the lost energy. After the meal, you will take a short rest and then move along the remaining part of the day’s trail. The trekking distance after lunch, in general, isn’t that long. You will rest your determined destinated in the itinerary plan in about 2 to 3 hours after lunch.

After reaching your destination, you can also admire the cultural prospects and natural beauty of the region. But make sure to consult your guide before heading out on your self-exploration. The dinner is then served from around 6 PM to 7 PM; you will have plenty of time to make conversation with your group and other trekkers exploring the region. Before bedtime, your guide will provide you with details about the next day’s trek so you can prepare accordingly.

Permit and Fee

There are generally three permits that you will require for trekking Pikey Peak. Your trekking trail will take you across two major protected areas in the Himalayas as well as the restricted area in the lower Everest region. The required permits for this trek are as follows:

Required Permits

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Gaurisankhar Conservation Area Permit
  • Local Area Permit

Both the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Gaurisankhar Conservation Area Permit cost approximately US$ 30. As for the Local Area Permit, it costs only about US$ 20 and will give you access to the restricted area in the region. Green Society Adventure will collect all the necessary permits for this trip for you.

Guide and Porter

Permits for Pikey Peak Trek

Guide and porters are the backbone of the trekking industry; these professionals add comfort and excitement to your adventures. The guide adds value to your exploration, providing information about your trip and taking care of every detail so you can just enjoy the experience. Similarly, they are also responsible for your safety and well-being; they care for your health during your adventure and check your condition daily. They will also monitor your comfort level and give their best to ensure you have a safe journey.

As for the porters, they are strong and helpful professionals who assist you with your luggage. They make it possible for you to travel light, and you will actually be able to immerse in your odyssey rather than feeling exhausted after long hours of walking. The porters are also mostly the natives of the region, and they will provide you with insights from a native’s perspective. The maximum weight limit for a porter is about30 kg; they will carry 15 kg worth of luggage for two trekkers (generally, 1 porter is provided for two trekkers).

Food and Accommodation

The Pikey Peak Trek is a newly developed trekking route in the lower Everest region. Although the Everest region is the mainstream trekking destination in the Himalayas, this newly introduced trekking route has yet to earn such recognition. Still, this trekking region is easily accessible by road, and the available services are on a moderate level.

Food During Trek

Nepal is a haven for food exploration as it houses a diverse range of ethnic groups with their own unique culture and traditions. So, the meals at the teahouses along the trekking route will be like food tasting of a wide range of delights that represent different parts of the country and are bursting with flavors. Besides the traditional dishes, other Asian country delicacies (especially Tibetan and Indian), including Western menus, are also available at teahouses.

The morning breakfast is generally light and nourishing, like Tsampa Porridge, Tibetan Bread, Chapati, Muesli, Fruit Salad, Toast, Eggs, Butter, Jam, Honey, Teah, Coffee Juice, Cereals, Oats, etc. As for the dinner and lunch, they comprise incredible delicacies that have unique blends of species like Dal Bhat, Dhindo, Gundruk, Chhoyela, Momo, Chowmein, Thukpa, Shyaphale, Steak, Sherpa Stew, Curry, etc.

Accommodation During Trek

In your standard 8 Days Pikey Peak Trek, you will spend about 6 nights at the teahouses on the mountain and 1 night in Kathmandu. If your Pikey Peak Trek itinerary is slightly longer, then you might spend a few extra nights at Kathmandu before departure. The accommodation facilities in the capital city are of top-notch quality, and every kind of modern amenities are available.

However, during your trek, you spend your night at moderate-scale teahouses run mostly by the natives. You will rest during the nights in cozy private rooms with two or three adjacent beds. The bathrooms are also generally shared; the teahouses at the lower trails do have modern-style bathrooms, while at the higher altitudes, they are more adept to the traditional-styled ones.

Trekking Equipment

Everest Base Camp Trek Offer: Early Bird Discount 2024

During this thrilling lower Everest region exploration, you will traverse several climatic zones. That’s why it is important to pack comfortable layers that fit perfectly in different regions. Besides the appropriate layers, you will also need to consider packing helpful gear that will make the experience enjoyable. Also, don’t forget to bring enough personal hygiene products and snacks that can last throughout the trip.

It is a good strategy to think about refilling the stock along the teahouses on the mountain. However, there are two drawbacks to that: you might not always find the products that you are looking for, and the prices can be high due to the remoteness. So, make sure to sort out your packing during your stay in Kathmandu.

Here are some our packing suggestions that you can take as reference for trekking Pikey Peak:

Head and Body

  • Sunblock hat
  • Headscarf
  • Neck cowl or gaiter
  • Lightweight t-shirt and shirt
  • Thermal vest
  • Sweater
  • Breathable jacket
  • Hoodden waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Down jacket
  • Trekking shorts
  • Cotton pant
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket
  • Warm insulated trouser
  • Undergarments
  • Gloves

Feet

  • Comfortable trekking boot
  • Flexible sports shoes with good traction
  • Crocs or sandals
  • Waterproof feet gaiter
  • Several pairs of socks

Personal Hygiene

  • Sunscreen cream
  • Soap and shampoo
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Body lotion and lip care
  • Travel towel
  • Tissue paper, wet wipes
  • Toilet paper
  • Water purification
  • Bug spray
  • Body spray or perfume
  • Nail clipper
  • Small mirror
  • Personal medication
  • First aid kit
  • Disposable razor
  • Feminine hygiene products

Trekking Equipment/Gear

  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag
  • Backpack
  • Wastage bag
  • Headlamp
  • Power bank
  • Packing sack
  • Map and GPS
  • Binoculars
  • Camera
  • Multi-tool knife
  • Books and magazines
  • Journals
  • Board and card games
FAQs
  • Pikey Peak is located in the lower Khumbu region of the eastern Himalayas and sits in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal.

  • The standard trekking package for the Pikey Peak starts after driving from Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar, and you will gradually move along the ascending route to reach the summit. Another option is to get to the Pikey Peak Dhap Bazaar via a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Phalpu.

  • The summit of Pikey Peak elevates about 4,065 meters (13,336 feet) from the sea level.

  • Yes, for any high-altitude treks in Nepal, it is absolutely necessary to hire a government-licensed trekking guide. If you are buying a package, the agency will provide an experience guide for your trek.

  • The standard duration for trekking Pikey Peak is around 7 to 10 days. Still, the overall duration of your trip will depend on the route, trekking pace, and other side explorations.

  • Although the altitude gain is not that significant in this trek like other high-altitude adventures in the Himalayas, there are still risks of altitude sickness if you don’t follow appropriate acclimatization and precaution methods. The maximum point you will reach in this trek is at the summit of Pikey Peak (4,065 meters), which is in an alpine zone.

  • The summit of Pikey Peak offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Kanchenjunga, and other surrounding mountains.

  • The pikey peak trail is well-maintained, even if it is a wilderness exploration. You will need to walk across several ascending and descending sections along the way, including some steep segments as well. You will have to walk about 5 to 6 hours on average during this trek.

  • Yes, due to its easy-grade difficulty level, even a diverse age group can complete this journey without feeling much of a challenge. But, make sure that the members have good health conditions of and if possible, don’t include children who cannot communicate clearly.

  • The cost of a standard trekking package with a duration of 7 to 10 days is approximately around US$ 650 to US$ 850. The prices may vary depending on the duration of the trip, package coverage, and quality of services.

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