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 with more culture-conscious than 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 now is 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: The TIMS card is yet another permit for all trekkers in Nepal. However, post-COVID this permit is on hold for a few other significant reasons but they are planning to reissue it in 2024 Spring. 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.