Trekkers walking on scenic Pikey Peak trail with green hills and snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the background.
Scenic Pikey Peak trekking trail on Jhapre route with green hills, forested slopes, and Himalayan trekking path
Panoramic view of Pikey Peak base camp from Jhapre route with snow-covered Himalayan mountains and trekking trail

Pikey Peak Trek - 9 Days

31 reviews in Trip Advisor
11 reviews in Google Reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
9 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4,067 m (13,345 ft)
Group Size
1-12
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking & Hiking
Best Time
Spring and Autumn

Pikey Peak Trek Overview

The Pikey Peak Trek is one of the best short treks in the Everest region that allows you to explore every bit of this area. The trek passes through well-marked trails, genuine Sherpa culture, and stunning Himalayan views in the Solukhumbu region of the lower part. Compared to the popular routes such as Everest Base Camp, this Pikey Peak Trail attracts fewer travelers. The overall journey can be completed with comfort and acclimatization. 

This trek is beginner-friendly with gradual ascents and mostly well-maintained paths. So, you don’t need technical climbing skills, as you walk daily for about 4 to 6 hours. This makes the Pikey Peak Trek easier to enjoy the beautiful scenery, while giving your body time to adjust to the higher altitude comfortably. 

The Pikey Peak Trek starts with a morning drive from Kathmandu to Dhap, offering a great start to the adventure. From Dhap, the walk involves passing through blooming rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and picturesque Sherpa villages. Along the way, the scenery becomes more dazzling, with chances to visit ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and experience the warm hospitality at the local teahouses. 

Reaching the summit of Pikey Peak at 4,065 meters is the major highlight of this trek. This point is famous for an amazing sunrise panorama, which gives incredible mountain views. You can see some of the tallest Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga, from way up above. Many travelers who made it this far say that within a short time, they have never seen such a stunning mountain panorama.  

Trekking to Pikey Peak is considered an easy-to-moderate Himalayan trek that is perfectly designed for beginners and experienced hikers. Throughout this trek, you get comfortable teahouse accommodation, easier trails, and views of snow-capped mountains. This is exactly what makes the Pikey Peak 9 Days a short Everest region trek

Important Highlights of the Pikey Peak Trek

  • Reach Pikey Peak summit (4,065 m), the outstanding sunrise viewpoint in Nepal, with incredible mountain views. 
  • See magnificent peaks like Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu
  • Walk through the peaceful lower Everest region in Solukhumbu District, far from the crowded trails of the Everest Base Camp route. 
  • Trek through beautiful rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, yak pastures, and terraced hillsides. 
  • Explore major sites such as the Thupten Chholing Monastery, the crucial and highly significant monasteries in the Everest region. 
  • Take on a short and beginner-friendly trek to the Everest region that is suitable for trekkers with limited time. 
  • Easily accessible with a drive from Kathmandu, as you get to see the charming countryside and mountain roads. 

Why should you go for the Pikey Peak trek in Nepal?

Among the trekkers who wish to experience the Everest region, the Pikey Peak Trek is one of the most preferred treks. The Pikey Peak Trek route provides a quieter and more peaceful trek compared to the popular Everest Base Camp. Having fewer trekkers on the trails can benefit from several factors, mainly with a lot more chances to soak in the clear mountain vistas, forests, and traditional villages. The Pikey Peak Trek is a short-duration journey that can be completed in less time with no difficult sections. 

The reason many go for this trek is the scenic views you get to see from the summit of Pikey Peak. From the top, the vast Himalayas get more jaw-dropping, as you see snow-covered peaks such as Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. Many think this is the best place in Nepal to see the astonishing sunrise over the Everest range. 

This trek is also rich in cultural experience as it takes you to the lower Solukhumbu District. The way lets you observe the daily lifestyle and traditions of the local people, as you pass through small Sherpa villages, monasteries, and farmlands. This is what makes Pikey Peak a rewarding journey for both novice trekkers.

How hard is the Pikey Peak Trek? Difficulty Level 

Considered as an easy to moderate Himalayan trek, the Pikey Peak is perfect for first timers with basic fitness. The trail ascends through forests, hills, and tiny settlements in the lower Solukhumbu, giving your body time to acclimatize to the altitude. With most of the daily walks taking 4 to 5 hours, it turns out to be a comfortable trek compared to longer routes like EBC. 

The highest point of trekking is about 4,065 m, and the important part is the sunrise you get to see over the snow-capped peaks. The route does not involve technical climbing or steep sections, although the elevation is high. Most of the trekkers could successfully trek to Pikey Peak and see the mesmerizing view of the Himalayas. But they should maintain a proper pace, stay hydrated, and gain some basic trekking experience. 

Altitude, Elevation Gain, and Distance of Pikey Peak

The Pikey Peak Trek, located in the Everest region, has moderate walking distances and a gradual rise in elevation each day. This is what makes this trek easily manageable, even as a novice trekker. The trail winds through scenic hills and Sherpa villages, mainly in the lower part, making it more comfortable for you. 

Pikey Peak Trek Distance

The total distance to reach the summit of Pikey Peak is around 45 to 55 km (28-43 miles). But the total distance to cover is determined by your specific itinerary and how you decide to get there. The route is pleasant, taking you through forests, hills, and the small villages along the way. 

Starting Point and Altitude 

Most of the starting trek to Pikey Peak begins from Dhap, which is situated at around 2,800 meters. This can be easily reached with a scenic drive from Kathmandu, passing through well-maintained roads, offering spectacular views of dense hills. After reaching Dhap, you begin your trek on the next day, making the start perfectly organized and giving you a chance to adjust to the mountain environment. As you ascend slowly, your body gets enough time to acclimatize to a higher altitude. 

Highest Point 

The trek’s highest point is the summit of Pikey Peak at 4,065 meters. So, most of the trekkers hike to the top early in the morning to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas. As you reach the summit, you get more expansive views of popular peaks such as Mount Everest and other mountain ranges of this region. 

Walking Distance Each Day

Daily, you cover a total of 8 to 12 km, which takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the altitude and pace. However, most of the sections of the route are not so steep, which only requires ascending through small villages and teahouses. This is what gives you enough time to rest and enjoy the Pikey Peak Trek. 

Elevation Gain 

The highest altitude to be reached is around 4,056 meters, where each day, you gain altitude of about 1,100 - 1,300 meters. This helps you get used to the elevated heights, acclimate easily, and complete the Pikey Peak Trek easily. 

The moderate trekking distance and gradual altitude gain make the Pikey Peak Trek a better choice for novice trekkers looking for a short hike in the Everest region.  

Pikey Peak Trek Cost and Package for 9 Days 

For the Pikey Peak Trek, the cost usually starts from US$649 per person. However, our team even provides a group discount for the Pikey Peak Trek, which makes it a perfect choice for friends, families, and those in teams. 

Group Pricing:

  • 1 pax: US$999
  • 2 – 4 pax: US$799 per person 
  • 5 – 10 pax: US$749 per person
  • 11 – 15 pax: US$699 per person 
  • 16 – 20 pax: US$649 per person 

The cost includes teahouse accommodation, breakfast, and dinner, as well as experienced guides and local support staff. Optional services such as porters and airport pickup are also added to the price. 

The Pikey Peak Trek in Nepal offers a short, scenic Everest region adventure that is both budget-friendly and unforgettable.

Pikey Peak Trek - 9 Days Itinerary

Start Point: Kathmandu
End Point: Kathmandu
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Upon landing in Kathmandu, the capital city, you will kick off your adventure. A High Camp Adventure agent is already beside you at the International Airport. Along with completing Immigration formalities, you will also transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. Freshen up and explore the nearby areas. You are going to get together with your guide in the evening and he will give you important details about the journey.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

The drive from Kathmandu starts after having your breakfast. Your path runs along the Sunkoshi River and Roshi Khola in the eastern midlands of Nepal. You will go through some picturesque places such as Bhaktapur, Kavrepalanchowk, Sindhuli, and Ramechhap, before getting to the Solukhumbu region of Nepal, which, by then, will be no more than a few minutes away. The drive to the destination is chilling and offers such amazing views of the very high Himalayas that sometimes you even need to twist and turn to catch a look at the soaring peaks. Making your way to Dhap, you will have your rest and engage yourself with the locals, seeing if the tea houses have basic facilities. Furthermore, you will enjoy the stunning views of the mountains.

Max Altitude: 2,800 M (9,186 ft)Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

As you hike from Dhap to Jhapre, a fascinating trip in the Himalayas where you will take the road less traveled while appreciating the magnificent mountains will be created. In Spring, the vibrant rhododendron forests make the trip much more enjoyable. You will be passing through tiny settlements of the local Sherpas which will give you a firsthand experience of their culture and tradition. The terrain is very rocky and has both steep climbs and descents. When you reach Jhapre, you will be greeted warmly by the local people at the tea houses.

Max Altitude: 2,920 M (9,580 ft)Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The journey kicks off after an early morning breakfast at Jhapre enjoying the mesmerizing views of the nearby mountains. The journey navigates gradually via lush rhododendron forests and jaw-dropping landscapes. As you trek higher, you will see the wide-angle scenery of the high Himalayas with some glances of Everest and Kanchenjunga. On reaching the base camp, you will have adequate time to rest and explore the nearby areas as you will be immersing yourself in the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Max Altitude: 3,600 M (11,811 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

You will be heading to Pikey Peak to see the sunrise, which gives amazing views of the mountains. The path goes through the beautiful sights of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other peaks with a slow but steep climb. Take your time to enjoy the scenery. The route condition is a bit challenging yet, worth the journey. As you near the Peak spend time taking in the breathtaking views around you. You will find a peaceful spot to enjoy the impressive landscapes and make memories that you will never forget. After you are done clicking photos and exploring the nearby locations, you continue your trek back to the Base Camp. After you reach the Base Camp, descend back to Junbesi as it is your final destination for today. You make your way back through dense forests and small valleys. As you approach Junbesi, a small village with numerous ancient monasteries. Freshen up and explore the areas by engaging yourself with the locals of the area.

Max Altitude: 4,067 M (13,346 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

You will be starting your hike in the morning after breakfast. Early morning trek awards you with the fresh air and peaceful environment at higher elevations. The trek to Thupten Choiling provides you with spectacular views of the valleys and high mountain ranges. You will be navigating through vibrant traditional Sherpa villages and dense forests along with enjoying several prayer flags on your way. On your approach to Thupten Choiling, a prominent cultural site where you can explore the beautiful landscapes. You will be getting a chance to engage yourself with the monks. After spending some time, you will trek back to Junbesi following the same route as before. The descent takes less time and makes your journey easy and comfortable. Relax and enjoy your time in Junbesi along with trying their local cuisines.

Max Altitude: 2,800 M (9,186 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The path from Junbesi to Salleri is a beautiful route in the Khumbu area with great views of nearby mountains and stunning landscapes. The way navigates through rocky and steep trail conditions while you get a chance to witness the delightful village. You will be stopping at some points during the journey to refresh and have your lunch. Make sure you fully enjoy the trek journey as this is your last day at higher elevations. Engage yourself with the locals and make sure to witness the stunning landscape views.

Max Altitude: 2,200 M (7,217 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The drive from Salleri to Kathmandu is usually a scenic drive through natural landscapes. The road condition depends on the season you are trekking. In some seasons, there might be ongoing roadworks or even landslides. The road is curvy and rugged which offers you beautiful views of the Himalayas. You will be passing through several local villages and temples. The route navigates along the Sunkoshi and Bhote Koshi rivers while passing various Districts of Nepal including Kakani, Bhotechaur, Kavre District, and Dolalghat. After reaching Kathmandu, you will be dropped at your designated hotel where you will rest and explore the areas.

Meals: breakfast and lunchAccommodation: Hotel

Your trip to Pikey Peak finally ends today with the team of High Camp Adventure. Our team representative will drop you at the International Airport as per your Flight schedule. Hope you had a great stay in Nepal and eagerly waiting to set off on your upcoming journey to the Himalayas with us. Your experiences and feedback are invaluable to us, as it’s essential for our service improvement.

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Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop off to and from the International Airport to your Hotel in Kathmandu. 
  • Two nights accommodation at a 3-star hotel facility in Kathmandu. (breakfast included). 
  • Transportation as per the Pikey Peak Trek Itinerary (Kathmandu - Dhap and Salleri - Kathmandu). 
  • Government-licensed guide and Local Porter for Pikey Peak Trek. (The team of High Camp Adventure is responsible for looking after the cost of the guide and Porter, as well as travel insurance required). 
  • Local Teahouse accommodation during the Pikey Peak Trek. 
  • Trekking Permits and Documents 
  • Delicious and fulfilling meals three times a Day (breakfast, lunch, & dinner) throughout the trek. 
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu before your Final Departure. 
  • Company’s Service Charge. 
  • Basic First Aid Kit. 

Excludes

  • International Flight ticket to and from Kathmandu.
  • Visa for Nepal. 
  • Major meals in Kathmandu (other than breakfast). 
  • Personal belongings, laundry services, telephone bills, beverages, spa services, and snacks. 
  • Tips for Guide and Porter. 
  • Extra charges for hot showers in teahouses, charging of electronic equipment, and other expenses during the journey. 
  • Costs associated with cancellations, itinerary changes, weather delays, and politically related matters. 
  • Travel Insurance. 

Dates & Availability

These are upcoming fixed departure dates. If you are looking for a different date, feel free to contact us.

Essential Information

Airport Pickup and Drop 

For the Pikey Peak Trek, the team has ensured the airport pickup and drop-off from the Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel in Kathmandu. This is a complimentary service provided by the team of High Camp Adventure for our clients to have a great start. Doing so can ensure you stay safe and secure from the start to the end of your journey. 

Accommodation and Food 

If you plan to do the Pikey Peak Trek, accommodation is provided at mountain teahouses. These places offer a warm stay, as the rooms include twin beds, blankets, pillows, and a shared bathroom, usually in higher areas. Staying at the teahouse accommodation can make your trek safe, as this is the best way to spend the night and get used to the mountain lifestyle. 

For the 9 Day Pikey Peak Trek, meals are mostly provided at the local teahouses. The food is cooked with local ingredients that make it more delicious and fulfilling. So, if you want to try authentic cuisine, staying in teahouses and having the local items cooked can be a better choice. 

Pikey Peak Trek Porter and Guide 

Having an experienced and licensed Guide and Porter is necessary for the Pikey Peak Trek. They make your journey safe and enjoyable with experiences that are beyond your expectations. The Guide will help you pass through well-marked routes, as certain parts of the trail are a bit confusing. Our team includes well-experienced and licensed guides who ensure your safety and security. They even manage your permits and accommodation, making the overall Pikey Peak Trek safe and comfortable. 

Porter will carry your heavy backpack (15-25 kg) so you can walk more comfortably with your hands free. Our team provides you with porters, as it even boots up the mountain community and makes the Pikey Peak Trek much more pleasant and well organised. 

Gear and Packing List

Proper packing for the Pikey Peak is essential for a comfortable trek in Nepal. As the trail ascends to over 4,000 meters, trekkers are advised to pack warm clothes, hiking boots, and basic outdoor gear. A warm jacket, thermal layers, gloves, and a hat are helpful when the temperature can fall in the morning and evening. Also, make sure to take suitable rain gear, water bottles, sunglasses, a first aid kit, and sunscreen. 

Having all these essentials is required for trekking in the Everest region. Trekking poles, a headlamp, and a durable sleeping bag can also help make the trek go more smoothly. 

Trek to Pikey Peak - When Should You Go?

The ideal time for this trek is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The season presents stable weather, little rain, and comfortable trekking temperatures in the Everest area. The trail blooms with rhododendron forests and fresh mountain air in the spring. Autumn is another popular time because the skies tend to be relatively clear, providing stunning views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks from Pikey Peak summit

Winter hikers are possible, but temperatures can drop significantly below freezing at higher elevations, especially in the early morning. The summer monsoon season sweeps in rain and covers the skies, which can limit visibility in the mountains. To find more seasonal advice and trekking tips, check out our blog on the best possible time to trek in Nepal.

Permits for Pikey Peak Trek

Before taking on the Pikey Peak Trek in Nepal, trekkers are required to obtain a few permits, such as the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP), as this is needed to have legal access to the area. This permit permits you to pass through the preserved natural landscapes and local communities along the route. 

The Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card is another important permit. This card records your trekking activity to help local authorities know the status of trekkers. Both of the permits can be obtained in Kathmandu from a registered trekking agency or from the Nepal Tourism Board Office

You may be asked to show your permits at various entry points along the trail in the Solukhubu District. So, it is advisable to keep your permits with you while trekking. 

Safety Tips to be Followed for the Pikey Peak Trek

The Pikey Peak is one of the best treks in Nepal that is also safe and suitable for beginners, but you still should be properly prepared. 

  • During the trek, maintain a consistent pace and give your body adequate time to acclimatise to the altitude. 
  • Be sure to keep yourself hydrated, eat well, and take breaks when required, as it can decrease the chances of altitude sickness. 
  • Before you start your trek, check the weather conditions, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
  • In the Solukhumbu District, the trail can get slippery, so good trekking shoes are a must.
  • Trek with an experienced guide as they are more familiar with the route, local conditions, and can help in case of emergencies. 

Therefore, by following all the safety tips and journey with an experienced guide, the Pikey Peak Trek can offer you rewarding opportunities. 

Travel Insurance

 If you think of doing the Pikey Peak Trek, it is strongly recommended to have travel insurance. With a good insurance policy that covers high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and emergency helicopter evacuation. Although the Pikey Peak Trek does not take you to extreme altitude, having insurance can provide you with peace of mind during the journey. Before that, make sure your insurance covers trekking above 4,000 meters in the remote mountain areas. 

Pikey Peak Trek - 9 Days FAQs

The Pikey Peak Trek is positioned in the lower part of the Khumbu region near the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. The trek is a less touristy trail in the Khumbu region with breathtaking landscapes and stunning mountain views.

Gaining altitude to reach the Peak Peak, you will be attaining an elevation of 4,067 meters above sea level. This trek is the best venue for trekkers wanting to immerse themselves in the mountain ranges of Nepal.

Yes, being an inexperienced trekker you can easily complete the Pikey Peak journey with an experienced Guide and basic trekking skills. The Pikey Peak trek is moderately challenging in the Khumbu region with being a hidden trekking destination in Nepal.

The trek to Pikey Peak is recognized as one of the moderately challenging journeys in the Khumbu region. The trail is comfortable however, the route condition from Pikey Peak Base Camp to Pikey Peak is a bit challenging with a steep ascent. You will be navigating through lush green forests and beautiful landscapes.

As per many trekkers, heading toward Pikey Peak is best during the Spring and Autumn as you will be favored with moderate temperatures and predicted weather conditions. During this time, you can see the route is packed with trekkers with limited options of facilities.

A 3-star hotel facility in Kathmandu and tea houses option is allocated to you during your Pikey Peak journey. The tea houses offered to you are based on a twin-sharing option as there are only limited rooms during peak seasons. The facilities in the tea houses are basic yet comfortable and safe.

The Meals offered during the journey include breakfast, lunch, and breakfast freshly made by the locals of the area from local ingredients. At lower elevations, you have an option to order foods according to your needs and preferences.

There is a lower probability of getting altitude sickness as you will only be reaching an elevation of 4,065 M. Even if the risk is minor, be very careful with the pace of your walk and always try to keep yourself hydrated. Take frequent rest and let your body acclimatize to the surroundings properly to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

No, the Pikey Peak trek is not achievable without a Guide and Porter. There are certain rules and regulations issued by the Government of Nepal. However, the trek is doable as a solo trekker but you have to have a licensed Guide and Porter. The Guide and Porter will help you for a safe and comfortable journey in the mountains of Nepal.

Yes, you must have the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit along with the Local Area Permit to do the Pikey Peak trek in the Khumbu region.

Note: Our team will help you obtain those permits on your behalf before your journey starts from Kathmandu.

Trekking during the time of Spring and Autumn, there are fewer chances of landslides on the trail. However, at the time of Monsoon and Summer probability is high as the trail is muddy and slippery.

Yes, most of the villages have a mobile network available during the trek. Some of the tea houses provide you with internet facilities however, you have to pay extra costs.

As per many trekking agencies, there are no age limitations. Trekkers of all ages can do the Pikey Peak trek however, it is essential to ensure that younger trekkers are physically and mentally prepared for the trek. Making your way to higher mountains can be easy with an experienced Guide.

In the course of your journey, various mountain peaks are visible making your trek full of stunning moments.

Mountains seen: Mount Everest, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Pumori, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Kwangde Ri, etc.

No, there aren’t any ATMs on the trekking routes of the journey. So for your expenses and tipping the Guide and Porter, it is advisable to withdraw or exchange cash in Kathmandu. Tipping and paying the expenses should be done in local currency (Nepalese currency) for your easy convenience.

No, during your journey there won’t be any language barrier with your Guide and Porter as our team provides you with an English-speaking Guide along with Poter.

No, you don’t have to learn Nepali to do the Pikey Peak trek. However, learning some basic Nepali phrases helps you to engage more with the locals of the area. Some Nepali phrases that are commonly used in Nepal help in case of any emergencies in the higher elevations to communicate with the locals.

No, it is strictly advisable to not bring your pets during your trek as the challenging route conditions can be a bit demanding for them. Taking them can be tough for you and other trekkers.

Yes, there are alternative options to reach Kathmandu after you complete your journey. You can take a direct flight from Phaplu Airport to Kathmandu which is a long scenic flight enjoying the mesmerizing views from the top.

Yes, trekkers have choices of selecting foods according to their needs and preferences. However, as per many trekkers and guides, it is advisable to lessen the intake of vegan foods during the trek. The consumption of meat can create some difficulties for you while trekking.

No, it is not suggested to drink the water directly from the tap. Better to drink bottled water or purified water during the trek.

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