Welcome to one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets—the Pikey Peak trek! Often overlooked for the more famous Everest Base Camp and Annapurna treks, Pikey Peak offers an incredible alternative with breathtaking views, local Sherpa culture, and a quieter, less crowded trail. This trek offers a unique vantage point where you can see Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and more of the Himalayas all from one viewpoint! Let’s break down this journey day by day.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Dhap (8–9 hours by Jeep)
Your adventure begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dhap. The scenic journey takes around 8-9 hours and passes through lush hills, rivers, and local villages. The drive might be long, but it’s also incredibly scenic and gives you a taste of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
- Distance: 240 km
- Elevation: Dhap is at 2,930 meters
- Accommodation: Teahouse or basic lodge
- Highlights: The landscape shifts from the urban hustle of Kathmandu to the serene countryside, dotted with terraced fields and small villages.
Pro Tip: Bring snacks, water, and something to pass the time during the drive. Also, take breaks to stretch and enjoy the views!
Day 2: Dhap to Jhapre (3–4 hours trek)
After breakfast in Dhap, your trekking journey officially begins! The trail from Dhap to Jhapre is relatively gentle, a good warm-up for the days ahead. You’ll trek through rhododendron forests, pass through small villages, and catch your first glimpse of the majestic Himalayan range.
- Distance: 9 km
- Elevation: Jhapre is at 2,820 meters
- Accommodation: Teahouse with basic amenities
- Highlights: Views of Mt. Everest in the distance and traditional Sherpa villages.
Fun Fact: Jhapre is known for its unique Sherpa culture, with monasteries and prayer flags adding a spiritual element to the trek.
Day 3: Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp (5–6 hours trek)
Today, you’ll continue uphill towards Pikey Base Camp. The trail is a mix of gradual ascents and some steeper sections, making it a bit more challenging than yesterday. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient Buddhist stupas, colorful prayer flags, and lush forested paths. The higher you go, the more spectacular the views!
- Distance: 10 km
- Elevation: Pikey Base Camp is at 3,640 meters
- Accommodation: Basic teahouse (bring warm clothes—it gets cold here at night!)
- Highlights: Panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.
Pro Tip: Take it slow and stay hydrated. The altitude begins to make its presence felt here, so rest frequently and enjoy the scenery.
Day 4: Pikey Base Camp to Pikey Peak Summit (4,065 meters) and trek to Junbesi (6–7 hours)
This is the most anticipated day of the trek! You’ll start early to catch the sunrise from Pikey Peak. The climb to the summit is steep but short and worth every effort. From the summit, you’ll experience a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Himalayas, including Everest, Kanchenjunga, Dhaulagiri, Makalu, and more. After soaking in the views, you’ll descend towards the village of Junbesi.
- Distance: 12 km
- Elevation: Pikey Peak at 4,065 meters, Junbesi at 2,700 meters
- Accommodation: Comfortable teahouse in Junbesi
- Highlights: Sunrise at Pikey Peak, an unforgettable view of some of the tallest peaks in the world.
Interesting Fact: Sir Edmund Hillary himself claimed that Pikey Peak offers the best view of Everest!
Day 5: Junbesi to Taksindu (5–6 hours trek)
After a restful night in Junbesi, you’ll continue the journey through the beautiful Solu Khumbu region. The trek to Taksindu takes you past monasteries, bridges, and local villages, allowing for a deeper dive into Sherpa culture. The path is a mix of gradual ascents and descents, offering yet more views of the Himalayas and lush forests.
- Distance: 10 km
- Elevation: Taksindu at 2,960 meters
- Accommodation: Teahouse with basic facilities
- Highlights: Visit the Junbesi Monastery, lush forests, and picturesque mountain views.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Tibetan-inspired murals and art at the Junbesi Monastery. The monastery is also a center of Buddhist learning, and if you’re lucky, you might witness a prayer session.
Day 6: Taksindu to Phaplu (4–5 hours trek)
Today, you’ll begin your descent to Phaplu, the final trekking destination. The trail is gentle and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to interact with locals and enjoy the peaceful landscapes of the lower Solu Khumbu region. In Phaplu, you’ll find a mix of traditional teahouses and more modern accommodations, making it a comfortable end to the trek.
- Distance: 9 km
- Elevation: Phaplu at 2,469 meters
- Accommodation: Teahouse or guesthouse
- Highlights: Final views of the Himalayas, local encounters, and a chance to relax after days of trekking.
Interesting Fact: Phaplu has a small airstrip, so some trekkers choose to fly back to Kathmandu from here, adding a touch of adventure to the return journey.
Day 7: Drive/Fly from Phaplu to Kathmandu
From Phaplu, you can either take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu or opt for a short flight if you prefer a faster return. The drive offers one last chance to take in the stunning countryside, while the flight provides incredible aerial views of the Himalayan landscape.
- Distance: 240 km (or a 30-minute flight)
- Highlights: Returning to Kathmandu with memories of an incredible journey.
Pro Tip: If you choose to fly, book your ticket in advance as flights can fill up quickly.
Important Trekking Tips for Pikey Peak
- Best Time to Go: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
- Altitude Sickness: Though Pikey Peak is lower than other Himalayan treks, it’s essential to go slow and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
- Packing Essentials: Layers, a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, a headlamp, and snacks are recommended.
- Permits Needed: You’ll need a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP) and TIMS card. These can be arranged in Kathmandu.
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness is required, but it’s suitable for both beginner and experienced trekkers due to its gradual ascents.
Why Choose the Pikey Peak Trek?
Pikey Peak is an excellent choice for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. It combines stunning views of the world’s highest mountains with a rich cultural experience in Sherpa villages, all without the crowded trails of more famous routes. This trek offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and a genuine sense of tranquility.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-time visitor, the Pikey Peak trek promises unforgettable memories and an incredible view of the Himalayas that few get to witness. Interested in taking on this hidden gem in the Himalayas? Reach out to us, and let us help you prepare for a journey to one of Nepal’s most awe-inspiring viewpoints!
Happy trekking!