Pikey Peak Trek

Nepal Pyramids Trekking & Climbing
Pikey Peak Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration9 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Places to Visit Lower Everest/Pikey Peak
  • Max Altitude 4,065m/13,335ft.
  • Group Size 2-15
  • Starts Dhap Bazar
  • Ends Phaplu
  • Activity Teahouse Lodge Trekking
  • Best Season Spring/Autumn/Winter

Pikey Peak Trek Overview

Pikey Peak Trek is a Hidden Gen within the magical terrains of the lower Solu-Khumbu valley. It is truly said that Pikey Peak Trail takes you to the kingdom of natural beauty and cultural richness. Although the Pikey Peak trek is a very newly discovered trek it is surely the most spectacular destination that should be on your bucket list.

It presents an exclusive and less crowded experience than commercial trails like the Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The reason why Pikey Peak Trek is so special is that it is less crowded with tourists and delivers off-the-beaten-track experience.

If you have been to the EBC trek before and have explored the Khumbu region you will find the lower Solu-Khumbu to be entirely different. The Sherpa People here comparatively look more indigenous locals and more culture-conscious than the Khumbu region. Furthermore, you will find the beauty of lower Solu-Khumbu more fascinating with variation than the commercial EBC trail.

It truly provides the thrill of seclusion and peace of mind for the trekkers who choose to go for Pikey. Besides, it is believed that the summit of Pikey Peak is said to be Edmund Hillary's favorite spot. Every now and then Hillary used to visit this area and walk up to Pikey's summit whenever he was in Nepal.

The highest point of the trek is Pikey Peak which stands at a height of 4,065 meters / 13,335 feet. It is considered a moderate trek in terms of altitude and difficulty making It suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness and experience.

Pikey Peak is known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas including the world-famous Everest.  One of the highlights of the Pikey Peak Trek is the chance to witness sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas.

The view from Pikey Peak is truly amazing. It is not just the view of the prominent mountains of Nepal but Pikey gives you the dramatic view of the surrounding landscape which is magical.

Pikey Peak Trek Highlights:

  • Walk the newly discovered trek in the lower Solu-Khumbu valley.
  • Less crowded alternative to the Everest Trek and Annapurna Treks.
  • Enjoy the most dramatic landscape setting including rhododendron forests and alpine meadows.
  • Climb the most picturesque vantage point of Pikey Peak at 4,065 meters / 13,335 feet.
  • Stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Manaslu, Makalu, Dhaulagiri, Lhotse, and many more.
  • Opportunity to witness stunning sunrise and sunset over the mountains
  • Experience the rich cultural experience with local Sherpa communities, unlike Everest Base Camp.
  • Optional visit to Thupten Choling Monastery (requires an extra day)
  • Enjoy a more authentic and peaceful trekking experience

The Untouched Valley of Pikey Peak:

Despite its incredible beauty and cultural significance, the Pikey Peak Trek remains unexplored by mass tourism. Since this route is very new trekkers can enjoy the tranquility and can have a more authentic experience. It is an opportunity to connect with nature and explore the unspoiled beauty of the lower Everest region.

Since it is a moderate trek, even beginners can do Pikey Peak Trek which delivers a rewarding experience. However, the route is now gradually improving, making it accessible to a wider range of trekkers. The construction of roadways is going on but there are alternative routes that can be taken easily.

It is certainly an incredible adventure through breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences.

Permits Required for Pikey Peak Trekking:

Pikey Peak Trekking requires the following permits. However, Nepal Pyramids organized all essential permits prior to your arrival in Kathmandu. These permits are necessary to regulate and manage the trekking activities in the region, as well as to protect the natural environment and cultural heritage.

  • Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit: Pikey Peak lies within the Gaurishankar Conservation Area and all foreign travelers require Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP). The permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu and costs NPR 3000 per trekker.
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: However, post-COVID this permit is on hold for a few other significant reasons but they are planning to reissue it in 2024 Spring. THIS PERMIT IS NOT MANDATORY AS OF NOW. TIMS is either issued by the Nepal Tourism Board or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the cost is NPR 2000 for all foreign nationals and NPR 1000 for all SAARC nationals.

Trip information:

The most common starting point for the Pikey Peak Trek is the village of Jiri, which is accessible by road from Kathmandu. Alternatively, you can also start from Phaplu another nearby town with an airport. However, we basically start our Pikey Peak Trek from Dhap Bazaar. From Dhap Bazaar, we start our scenic journey to Pikey Peak.

The first stop after Dhap Bazaar is Jhapre. Jhapre is a small settlement that gives you a glimpse of local Sherpa culture. From both Dhap and Jhapre, you will witness the most stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas including Everest. After Jhapre, our trek continues further to the Pikey Base Camp. This camp is located at the foot of Pikey Peak at a height of 3640 meters. Overnight at Pikey Base Camp allows trekkers to acclimatize and at the same time enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Climbing the Summit of Pikey Peak at 4,065 m / 13,335 feet:

From Pikey Base Camp, the next challenge is to reach the summit of Pikey Peak itself. The height of Pikey Peak is 4,065 m / 13,335 feet which offers magnificent views of the panoramic mountain range. This view includes Mt. Everest, Number, Thamserku, Kangtega, Kanchenjunga, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Gaurishankar, Dorje Lakpa, and Langtang.

The trek to the peak from the Base Camp is only 40/45 minutes but this walk is epic. The trail isn't a steep ascent, it is a switch-back trail that would climb gradually. With few breaks to catch up with your breath will finally take you to the most picturesque vantage point.

After taking in the most spectacular view we will descend back to Pikey Base Camp for breakfast. We will further descend Jase Bhanjyang walking the most incredible trail. This picturesque village of Jase Bhanjyang is a junction of several trekking routes, making it a popular resting point for trekkers. From Jase Bhanjyang, the journey continues to Junbesi.

Junbesi is known for its ancient monasteries and traditional Sherpa architecture. (A visit to Thupten Choling Monastery at Junbesi is a highlight and something not to be missed. However, this requires a rest day at Junbesi which means one additional day. The excursion to Thupten Choling Monastery will take 5/6 hours)

The final leg of the Pikey Peak Trek takes trekkers from Junbesi to Phaplu. This part of the journey offers stunning views of the Numbur Himal and the Rolwaling mountain range. Phaplu is a small town with basic amenities, and it serves as the gateway to the Everest region.

After completing the trek we will drive back to Kathmandu in a PRIVATE jeep. This scenic drive allows them to reflect on their incredible journey while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Nepal.

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01:Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (1400 m/4593 feet) and Transfer to Hotel
  • Day 02:Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar (2932m / 9,619 feet)
  • Day 03:Trek to Jhapre (2829m / 9,281 feet) - 14km 5/6 hours
  • Day 04:Trek to Pikey Base Camp (3640m / 11,942 feet) 14km 5/6 hours
  • Day 05:Trek to Pikey Peak (4,065 m / 13,335 feet) and terk to Jase Bhanjyang (3520m / 11,548 feet) 4/5 hours
  • Day 06:Trek to Junbesi (2700m / 8,858 feet) - 11km 5/6 hours
  • Day 07:Trek to Phaplu (2380m / 7,808 feet) 13.5km 5/6 hours
  • Day 08:Drive to Kathmandu - 280km 9/10 hours
  • Day 09:Trip Ends - Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport

Pikey Peak Trek Detailed Itinerary

Once you arrive at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be received by the warm welcome of your Trekking Group Leader or Our Office Representative and transfer you to the hotel. 

The drive from the airport to your hotel takes approximately 25/30 minutes and drives through the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, where ancient temples and bustling markets coexist in harmony. For some the traffic and the lively activities of Kathmandu can be a cross-culture. Your hotel is located at the colorful tourist hub of Thamel.

Highlights:

  • Pick up from the international airport.
  • Transfer to the hotel by your Group Leader.
  • Trek briefing and distribution of the equipment.
  • Explore Thamel.
  • Welcome Dinner and bonding with your fellow trekkers.
  • Altitude: 1400 m/4593 feet
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
  • Meals: Welcome Dinner
  • Distance: 6 km

Since today is going to be a little longer drive through our narrow highway we will leave early from the hotel. Soon we are done with our Breakfast we will board our vehicle including your Team Leader and the rest of the ground staff and leave the city. As we leave Kathmandu we will cruise to a different district of Bhaktapur and shortly after take the narrow but refreshing highway with a view.

We will stop halfway for a great lunch and proceed further to our destination. Along the way, you will witness diverse topography and diverse culture. The landscapes will change from city to tropical which will lead you further down to the plane river valley and again gradually ascend towards the vibrant hills. You will also witness the rustic lifestyles of Nepal with different cultures, traditions, vegetation,n and house architecture. Eventually we will arrive at THADE - we will either stay at Thade or drive a little further to Dhaap Bazaar.

Highlights:

  • Scenic Drive to Dhaap Bazaar.
  • View of diverse landscape.
  • Lunch on the highway restaurant.
  • Witness different Nepali lifestyles.
  • Altitude: 2932m / 9,619 feet
  • Accommodation: Local Lodge
  • Walking Hour: 8/9 hrs Drive
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Distance: 240 km
  • Transport: PRIVATE VEHICLE
                What's Included
                • PERMITS: All Essential permits required to trek in the region.
                • PICKUP AND DROPS: Airport pickup and drop facilities on both Domestic and International flights are included.
                • ACCOMMODATION: Three-star twin bed sharing hotel Accommodation in KATHMANDU on a Bed / Breakfast basis.
                • WELCOME DINNER: Welcome dinner in a typical traditional Nepali restaurant.
                • SIGHTSEEING: Half-day guided city sightseeing to two most sacred World Heritage Sites with a paid entrance fee.
                • TAXES: All Government and Local tax.
                • GROUND TRANSPORTATION: All Ground transportation to and from the preferred destination as per the itinerary – PRIVATE VEHICLE.
                • STAFF TRANSPORTATION: All ground transportation for all staff as required.
                • EQUIPMENT: Fundamental trekking gear like a sleeping bag with fleece liners, Primaloft jacket, Rain Poncho, Yak-Track, Trekking Poles, etc.
                • LODGING: Local Tea-house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis – A single supplement is provided on request OVER MINIMAL COST, however, depends solely on the availability.
                • DRINKING WATER: Properly boiled hot water for drinking is provided every evening and morning – so it’s wise to have bottles equivalent to 3 liters or bottles along with a Rehydration Bag (camel bag).
                • GLORIOUS FOOD: All Meals (Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast with hot beverages) during the trek.
                • TREK LEADER AND ASSISTANT GUIDE: An experienced trek leader holding legitimate licensing leads the group, along with assistant guides based on group size. Groups of 3 or more are typically assigned at least 1 assistant guide.
                • PORTERS: The porter to trekker ratio is 1:2 - meaning 1 porter for every 2 trekkers. However, for groups larger than 4 trekkers, an additional porter is provided specifically to assist with hot water supply during the trek.
                • STAFF INSURANCE & ALLOWANCES: Insurance coverage, wages, and allowances for all trek staff are included.
                • SAFETY CONCERNS: Emergency equipment including oxygen cylinders and a comprehensive medical kit is available at all times during the trek.
                • COMPLIMENTARY TAKE AWAY: Trekkers receive a duffel bag, t-shirt, multi-functional headwear, baseball hat, trekking map, and completion certificate to take home.
                What's Excluded
                • NEPAL VISA: A fee of $50 that is levied on a 30-day Nepali visa.
                • INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE: The cost of all international flights.
                • PERSONAL EXPENSES: All personal expenses that may include Nepalese SIM card, internet, battery charging, hot shower, laundry, fizzy drinks, Alcohol, etc.
                • EMERGENCY: A medical examination of any kind, High Altitude Evacuation over any circumstances, Air Evacuation and Rescues.
                • DONATIONS: Donations of any kind.
                • STAFF TIPPING: Tipping is entirely a personal matter, however, it’s a trekking culture.
                • EXTRA NIGHTS: Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu on early arrival or Late departure.
                • SANCTIONS: Permits or the letter of Authorization that is required for special Filming, big Drones, and Filming Cameras.
                • INSURANCE: All-inclusive Travel or medical insurance is a must.
                • EXTRA PORTER: Over request Extra Porter or Assistant is provided that may include the cost of $25 per day.
                • OPTIONAL TOURS: Optional tours and sightseeing or any activities during free time.
                Off The Beaten
                Price per personUS$ 999US$ 1120
                We Offer Group Price
                2 - 3 pax
                US$ 999
                4 - 6 pax
                US$ 900
                7 - 10 pax
                US$ 875
                11 - 15 pax
                US$ 800
                Private Departure
                Why Choose Nepal Pyramids?

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                • Safety is our Prior Concern
                  Safety is our Prior Concern

                  Safety is our foremost concern at our Travel company. We prioritize the well-being of our adventurers above all else. We provide top-notch equipment and conduct rigorous safety checks to ensure every trek is as secure as it is adventurous.

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