Pikey Peak Trek — Short, Scenic Trek in the Lower Everest Region
Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Day 1: Drive to Dhap from Kathmandu (2932m)
8 hours
2,932 m / 9,619 ft
Guesthouse in Dhap
Breakfast in Kathmandu, lunch en route, dinner at the guesthouse
Today we drive to Dhap after having breakfast at the Hotel in Kathmandu. Drive leads through B.P. Highway follows the Sunkoshi River until Ghurmi. After Ghurmi, the road leads to a higher elevation, passing through Rhododendron, Cade, Pine forest, and is lined with numerous settlements. This drive offers the waterfall, terrace fields, stream, and beautiful view, and we will finally reach Dhap Bazar. Walk around the local market and town. Overnight stay in Dhap sets the tone for the Pikey Peak Trek, preparing you for the trails ahead.
Day 2: Trekking to Jhapre from Dhap Village
Tea house
Breakfast in Dhap, packed lunch on trail, dinner at tea house
11.1 km / 6.9 mi – 5–6 hours
2,920 m / 9,580 ft
The trek begins as the trail quickly leaves the road, winding through forests of rhododendrons and sub-alpine flowers with endless Himalayan views. Passing through Sigane Village, you experience the daily life of Sherpa communities, terraces of rice and vegetables, and glimpses of Mount Everest and Numbur Himal.
After 5–6 hours of peaceful walking, you reach Jhapre (2,920 m / 9,580 ft), perched above a deep valley with a tiny gompa and stupa. Rest in a cozy tea house, enjoy a traditional Sherpa dinner, and prepare for the next day’s ascent to Pikey Peak Base Camp.
Day 3: Jhapre to Pikey Peak Base Camp Trek (3640m)
Tea house at Pikey Peak Base Camp
Breakfast in Jhapre, packed lunch on trail, dinner at tea house
13.7 km / 8.5 mi – 6–7 hours
3,640 m / 11,942 ft
15–30 travelers
From Jhapre (2,920 m), the day begins with stunning morning views of the Himalayas as you ascend toward a grassy slope at Bhulbhule. Along the way, an unnamed lodge offers a perfect spot to admire the mountain panorama. Just beyond Bhulbhule, the trail forks, and you’ll turn right toward Pikey Peak, entering the heart of the Lower Everest region.
The trail passes old yak houses and an enlarged Mani Wall, highlighting the local Sherpa culture. You continue along the slope of Taklung Danda through a serene woodland trail, where spring trekkers will find rhododendrons in full bloom, painting the forest with vibrant colors.
After passing through the peaceful forest, you reach Pikey Peak Base Camp (3,640 m / 11,942 ft), just a short 2-hour hike from the summit. From here, the final ascent to Pikey Peak (4,065 m / 13,336 ft) is best done at dawn, offering an unforgettable sunrise view over Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu. Spend the night at the cozy tea house at base camp, enjoying a warm meal and alpine tranquility.
Note
Wake up early at base camp to catch the sunrise—it’s magical, peaceful, and less crowded than the summit itself.
Day 4: Pikey Peak Base Camp to Junbesi Village (2,700 m / 8,858 ft)
Local tea house in Junbesi
Breakfast at base camp, packed lunch along the trail, dinner at Junbesi tea house
~16 km / 10 mi – 6–7 hours
2,700 m / 8,858 ft
Your day begins early at Pikey Peak Base Camp, with headlamps lighting the quiet trail as you make your way toward the summit. The climb is steady but rewarding, and as you approach the top of Pikey Peak (4,065 m), the darkness slowly lifts into soft shades of orange and gold.
Reaching the summit is the moment most trekkers remember forever. From here, the Himalayan skyline opens wide—Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and many more peaks stretch across the horizon. As the sun rises, the snow-capped mountains turn golden, creating one of the most breathtaking sunrise viewpoints in Nepal.
After taking in the panorama and capturing some unforgettable photos, you begin your descent from the summit. The trail drops gently through quiet ridgelines, yak grazing fields, and dense rhododendron and pine forests. Wild birds, crisp mountain air, and untouched nature accompany you along the way—a beautiful reminder of why the Pikey Peak Trek is known for its peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere.
Eventually, the landscape opens into terraced farmlands and small Sherpa hamlets. The final stretch leads you into Junbesi, one of the most charming and culturally rich villages in the region. Here, traditional Sherpa homes, fluttering prayer flags, and a serene monastery welcome you after a long, fulfilling day.
Spend the evening exploring the village or relaxing with a warm drink—today’s journey gives you both the best views of Pikey Peak and the warm hospitality of the Himalayan foothills.
Day 5: Junbesi to Phaplu (2,540 m / 8,333 ft)
~12 km / 7.5 mi – 4–5 hours
Tea house or lodge in Phaplu
Breakfast in Junbesi, lunch en route, dinner in Phaplu
Start the day with a hearty breakfast in Junbesi Village before heading toward Phaplu. Today’s trail is gentle, winding through terraced fields, pine and rhododendron forests, and quiet Sherpa settlements. Along the way, notice the daily life of the villagers—farmers tending to yaks, children walking to school, and small prayer shrines tucked along the trail.
Arrive in Phaplu, a quaint town with a small airstrip and local markets. Check into a comfortable tea house or lodge, relax, and enjoy a traditional Sherpa meal. This is the perfect day to soak in the Lower Everest region culture and savor the calm of the mountains before your journey back.
Optional Add-On:
If you want to explore more before heading to Phaplu, you can visit Thupten Chholing Monastery, one of the largest and most respected monasteries in the Solukhumbu region. This detour adds a meaningful cultural experience, offering insight into Tibetan Buddhist traditions and monastic life.
Day 6: Phaplu to Kathmandu (Drive Back)
8–9 hours by jeep
Breakfast in Phaplu
Hotel in Kathmandu
After breakfast in Phaplu, you begin your journey back to Kathmandu by jeep. The drive follows winding mountain roads, passing through small hill towns, terraced fields, and deep river valleys. Along the way, you’ll get your last glimpses of rural Himalayan life—children walking to school, farmers working in the fields, and prayer flags fluttering above village houses.
As you descend toward the lower hills, the air gets warmer, and the landscapes change from alpine forests to lush subtropical greenery. There are several scenic stops where you can stretch, enjoy tea, and take in the views. By afternoon or early evening, you arrive in Kathmandu, marking the end of your Pikey Peak adventure. Check into your hotel, relax, and enjoy a well-earned rest—or explore the lively streets of Thamel for food and souvenirs.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- Tourist vehicle from Kathmandu to Dhap and back
- Tea house lodging while on the tour
- Full board meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during trek
- Experienced English-speaking guide (Including their accommodation, food, salary, and insurance)
- Gaurisankar Conservation Area Permit
- All government taxes
- First Aid kit
- International airfare.
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for Guide/Driver/Porter
- Bar and desert bill.
Essential Gear for Pikey Peak Trek
To enjoy a safe and comfortable trek to Pikey Peak, it’s important to carry the right clothing, trekking equipment, and personal essentials. Proper gear ensures you stay warm, protected, and ready for the stunning Himalayan adventure.
Backpacks & Bags
- Daypack
- Duffle/Backpack
- Rain Cover
Trekking Essentials
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Water bottle or hydration system (2–3L capacity)
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Trekking map or GPS device
Personal Items
- Sunscreen and lip balm (high SPF)
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, wet wipes, hand sanitizer)
- Quick-dry towel
- First aid kit (bandages, painkillers, altitude sickness meds, blister plasters)
- Personal medications
Electronics
- Mobile phone and power bank
- Camera with extra memory cards
- Universal adapter (if needed)
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
Weather and Temperature in Pikey Peak Trek
During the Pikey Peak trek, trekkers will find themselves walking at altitudes ranging from 2400m to 4065m, experiencing a consistently cold climate throughout their journey. Afternoons bring the flow of winds around Pikey Peak. In the rainy season (June, July, and August), the lower areas receive rainfall, while the higher areas, especially around Pikey Peak, may experience snowfall during the winter season (December and January). Temperatures during the summer range between 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, while in winter, temperatures can drop to around 5 to -10 degrees Celsius.
Here is a detailed description of the variation of temperatures for different seasons.
Spring
| Location | Daytime Temperatures | Nighttime Temperatures |
| Lower Elevations | 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) | 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) |
| Higher Elevations (Pikey Peak Area) | 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) |
Spring
| Location | Daytime Temperatures | Nighttime Temperatures |
| Lower Elevations | 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) | 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) |
| Higher Elevations (Pikey Peak Area) | 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) |
Autumn
| Location | Daytime Temperatures | Nighttime Temperatures |
| Lower Elevations | 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) | 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) |
| Higher Elevations (Pikey Peak Area) | 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) |
Summer
| Location | Daytime Temperatures | Nighttime Temperatures |
| Lower Elevations | 15°C to 20°C (77°F to 86°F) | 15°C (59°F) |
| Higher Elevations (Pikey Peak Area) | 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) | 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) |
Winter
| Location | Daytime Temperatures | Nighttime Temperatures |
| Lower Elevations | 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) |
| Higher Elevations (Pikey Peak Area) | 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) | -10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F) |
Drinking Water:
Bottled Water: Although teahouses sell bottled water, it is best to bring a reusable bottle, apply water purifying techniques, or buy purified water to save plastic waste.
Boiled Water: You can drink the boiled water that many teahouses provide once it has cooled.
Electricity and Charging:
Internet and Communication:
- Mobile Phones: Mobile phone reception can be sporadic, but local SIM cards may work in some villages, allowing for calls and data use.
- Wi-Fi: Some teahouses may offer Wi-Fi, but it may be slow and come with a fee.
Medical Facilities:
Toilets:
Hot Showers:
Some teahouses offer hot showers for a fee, usually heated by solar or gas. However, the availability of hot showers may be limited, especially at higher altitudes.
Money and Banking:
Pikey Peak Trek Permit
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Local Permit
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (if applicable)
How to obtain these permits?
Obtaining the necessary permits for the Pikey Peak trek in Nepal involves a specific process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain these permits:
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System):
Local Permit:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:
How to obtain a VISA for the Pikey Peak trek?
ry Permit:
How to obtain a VISA for the Pikey Peak trek?
- Step 1: Visa Application Form:
Upon your arrival at TIA or the designated entry point, you’ll find visa application counters.
Grab a visa application form from the counter and fill it out. Forms are usually available in several languages.
- Step 2: Required Documents:
Along with the filled-out visa application form, you will need the following documents:
A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry.
One passport-sized photo.
Visa fee in cash (US dollars or other major foreign currencies are widely accepted).
- Step 3: Visa Fee Payment:
Calculate the visa fee based on your intended length of stay. The fees for tourist visas are as follows:
15 days: USD 30
30 days: USD 50
90 days: USD 125
Pay the visa fee in cash at the designated counter.
- Step 4: Visa Issuance:
After submitting your application form, documents, and visa fee, proceed to the visa issuance counter.
Present your documents and payment receipt to the immigration officer.
The officer will process your visa application and issue your visa on the spot.
Experienced Trekking Guides and Porter Services:
Our team of trekking guides is at the heart of providing a safe and enriching experience on the Pikey Peak trek. These guides are not only well-trained but also deeply knowledgeable about the region. They have years of experience leading treks in the Himalayas, including Pikey Peak. Our guides possess an in-depth understanding of the trekking routes, trail conditions, and potential obstacles.
They have the ability to adapt the itinerary as needed, considering factors such as changing weather patterns, trekkers’ health conditions, or unexpected circumstances. Their expertise extends to understanding the local culture, geography, flora, and fauna, allowing them to share fascinating insights with our clients. Most importantly, our guides are fluent in English and often speak other languages, ensuring effective communication and fostering a sense of camaraderie with trekkers. Generally, for groups of up to 6 members, we allocate a single guide but if the group size is larger we allocate additional guides.
For trekkers who prefer to lighten their load, we also arrange porters with an extra charge. These strong and reliable individuals can carry a portion of your gear, allowing you to focus on the trek itself. Porters play a crucial role in making the journey more comfortable, especially at higher altitudes where the air is thin, and the terrain is challenging. They are familiar with the trekking routes and can transport your belongings efficiently. We also ensure that our porter arrangements adhere to ethical guidelines, including 20 kg carrying weight limits to protect their well-being.
Tipping guides and porters are an essential part of the trekking culture in Nepal. Usually, about 15% to 20% of the total trip cost is preferred as a Tip with the larger part of the tip allocated to the Guide.
Pikey Peak Trek Cost
The cost for the Pikey Peak Trek is $490, which covers various aspects such as local transportation, and a knowledgeable guide to accompany you throughout the trek, Additionally, the cost includes 2 nights of accommodation 3* Hotels, and 5 nights in tea houses, three daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), the required permits, and your participation in the trek through a government-approved organization.
It’s important to note that there may be additional expenses for services like Wi-Fi, drinking water, bar bills, hot showers, and laundry, which are not included in the overall cost.
Packing List for Pikey Peak Trek
If you’re planning to go on the Pikey Peak trek in Nepal, it’s essential to be prepared with the right gear and equipment. Here’s a packing list to help you get started:
Clothing:
Warm base layers (long-sleeved tops and leggings)
Insulated jacket
Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants
Fleece jacket
Warm hat and gloves
Sleeping Bag
Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
Hiking boots (make sure they’re broken in before your trip)
Backpack:
40-60 liter backpack with a rain cover
Daypack for short hikes and excursions
Health and Safety:
Water purification tablets or filter
Personal first aid kit, including high altitude medication (consult with your doctor)
Sunscreen with high SPF
Lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent
Prescription medications (if applicable)
Portable altitude chamber (PAC) or oxygen cylinder (if necessary)
Accessories:
Sunglasses with UV protection
Headlamp with extra batteries
Trekking poles
Camera and spare batteries
Personal toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
Optional items:
Portable power bank for charging electronic devices
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
How difficult is the Pikey Peak trek?
This hike is classified as a moderate-grade trek in terms of difficulty, suitable for experienced trekkers, as well as inexperienced individuals with normal physical fitness levels.
Is Pikey Peak Trek worth it?
Yes, Pikey Peak Trek Nepal is worth it. It provides an awe-inspiring trekking experience, showcasing the majestic presence of seven peaks above eight thousand meters (Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna), accompanied by a multitude of other stunning white peaks. Moreover, this adventure encompasses diverse landscapes and offers a captivating immersion into the vibrant Sherpa culture.
How long is Pikey Peak Trek?
The standard Pikey Peak Trek in Nepal is typically a 6-day easy trek in Nepal. However, the duration of the trek can be extended based on your available time and preferences. Whether you add extra days for acclimatization, exploration, or simply to immerse yourself further in the region’s beauty, the trek can be tailored to suit your individual needs.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
It’s less risky than on high‑altitude treks, but some trekkers may feel mild symptoms (headache, dizziness, fatigue), especially if ascent is too fast.
Because the route generally allows gradual ascent (starting around ~2,900–3,000 m and rising gradually to 4,065 m), many complete it without serious issues — but proper acclimatization, hydration, and rest remain important.
Do I need a guide or porter? Is solo trekking possible?
Trekking solo is technically possible, especially if you have prior trekking experience — the route is well-marked, and tea houses are available.
However, for first‑time trekkers or if you’re unfamiliar with mountain treks, using a guide is recommended: they help with navigation, acclimatization, and emergencies.
Hiring a porter can help reduce fatigue, especially if you’re carrying heavy bags; it makes the trek more comfortable.
How long does the trek take — is 6 days enough?
A standard, efficient itinerary usually completes the trek in 6 days, with about 5–7 hours of trekking each day.
If you prefer a slower pace, want extra acclimatization, or side‑trips (villages, monasteries), you can extend it to 9–10 days.
What kind of views and highlights can I expect from Pikey Peak?
On a clear morning from the summit, trekkers can see panoramic Himalayan views — including major peaks such as Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, plus many other high mountains spanning east to west.
Additionally, the trek offers cultural immersion: traditional Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, forested trails, ridgelines, and a quiet, less‑crowded trekking experience compared to popular routes.
Is Pikey Peak Trek crowded? Will I see many trekkers?
No — Pikey Peak is considered a less crowded, off‑beat trek compared to classic routes like EBC or Annapurna. Many travelers choose it for tranquility and solitude.
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