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Pikey Peak Trekking : A Hidden Gem in Nepal’s Lower Everest Region

01 August 2025

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Bhaktapur Durbar Square

If you are searching for a scenic, culturally rich, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan trekking experience without the altitude stress and crowds of the Everest Base Camp, Pikey Peak Trek in the Lower Everest Region of Nepal is the perfect choice. Often referred to as Sir Edmund Hillary's favorite view of Everest, Pikey Peak offers panoramic Himalayan vistas, charming Sherpa villages, sacred monasteries, and an authentic taste of rural Nepalese life.

This blog serves as a comprehensive guide to the Pikey Peak Trek Route, covering everything from the trail itinerary and landscapes to cultural highlights, accessibility, accommodations, costs, and recent updates. It’s time to discover this hidden gem of the Everest Trek region.

Overview: What is Pikey Peak Trek?

Pikey Peak (4,065 meters) is one of the tallest hills in the Solukhumbu district and part of the Lower Everest region. The trek is a relatively short and moderate adventure, ideal for trekkers looking for breathtaking mountain views including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Annapurna, and more—without going too high or committing to the classic 2-week Everest Base Camp Trek route.

This trek passes through remote villages, dense rhododendron forests, alpine pastures, and Buddhist monasteries, while providing intimate cultural interaction with Sherpa, Tamang, and Rai communities.

Pikey Peak Trekking Route: Detailed Trail Itinerary (7–9 Days)

Here is the most popular and recommended 7-day itinerary starting and ending in Kathmandu.

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap (2,850m) – 7 to 9 hours

  • A scenic drive eastward through the hills of Okhaldhunga leads you to Dhap, the starting point of the trek.
  • The road is mostly paved until Ghurmi, and rough afterward.
  • Overnight in a local teahouse.

Day 2: Trek from Dhap to Jhapre (2,820m) – 5 hours

  • The trail offers early views of Everest and Numbur Himal.
  • Pass through terraced fields, pine forests, and chortens.
  • Jhapre is a peaceful Sherpa village with a monastery and distant views of the snow-capped mountains.

Day 3: Trek from Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp (3,640m) – 6 to 7 hours

  • The trail ascends gradually through yak pastures and rhododendron forests.
  • You’ll pass Buddhist mani walls, prayer flags, and panoramic ridges.
  • Stay at a basic but warm lodge at Pikey Base Camp.

Day 4: Hike to Pikey Peak (4,065m) – Trek to Loding (2,515m) – 7 to 8 hours

  • Begin early for a sunrise hike to Pikey Peak Summit.
  • Enjoy one of the widest Himalayan panoramas in Nepal—from Everest to Dhaulagiri, including Manaslu, Gaurishankar, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and even Annapurna on clear days.
  • Descend through forests and yak grazing meadows to Loding village for the night.

Day 5: Trek to Junbesi (2,700m) – 5 to 6 hours

  • Walk through peaceful villages and forest trails.
  • Arrive at Junbesi, one of the most charming Sherpa settlements in the region.
  • Visit the Thubten Chholing Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched above the village.

Day 6: Trek to Phaplu (2,470m) – 4 to 5 hours

  • Easy day of trekking along traditional trade and pilgrimage routes.
  • Pass through Beni Ghat and reach Phaplu, a small airstrip town.
  • Explore the surrounding villages and interact with locals.

Day 7: Drive or fly from Phaplu to Kathmandu

  • You can either take a scenic 35-minute flight back to Kathmandu (subject to weather and availability).
  • Or opt for a 9–10-hour drive via Salleri to Kathmandu.

Scenic Highlights of Pikey Peak Trek

  • Sunrise from Pikey Peak: Undoubtedly the biggest highlight. Clear views of 8,000m+ peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga.
  • Sherpa culture and monasteries: Experience authentic Sherpa and Tamang life, especially in Junbesi, Jhapre, and Thuptenchholing Monastery.
  • Rhododendron forests and biodiversity: Especially vibrant in spring (March–May) when the forest blooms.
  • Low crowd density: Unlike Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Trek, Langtang Trek or Manaslu Trek, this route is peaceful and less commercialized.
  • Cultural diversity: Ethnic encounters with Sherpa, Rai, Magar, and Tamang communities.
  • Sacred Buddhist landmarks: Stupas, mani walls, chortens, and centuries-old monasteries.

Best Time for Pikey Peak Trek

Season Description
Spring (March–May) Rhododendron forests in full bloom, clear views, ideal weather.
Autumn (September–November) Crisp skies, warm days, peak trekking season.
Winter (December–February) Snow at higher altitudes, fewer trekkers, very cold nights.
Monsoon (June–August) Rainy, slippery trails, cloudy views—not recommended.

Accommodation and Food

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouses and local homestays are available along the route. Rooms typically offer twin beds, warm blankets, and communal dining.
  • Food: Nutritious local and international meals available, including dal bhat, noodles, pancakes, eggs, and Sherpa stew. Most meals are served with local organic produce.
  • Charging and Connectivity: Solar charging and mobile networks (NTC and Ncell) available in most villages.

Best Time for Pikey Peak Trek

Expense Cost Estimate (USD)
Guide and porter $25–35 per day
Accommodation $5–10 per night
Meals $20–30 per day
Transport (Bus/Jeep/Flight) $25–130 total
Trekking permits ~$20 (TIMS not required for Pikey as of 2025)
Total (7 days) $300 – $600 depending on service level

Permit and Entry Requirements

As of 2025, no TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card or Sagarmatha National Park permit is required for the Pikey Peak Trek. However:
  • Local Entry Permit (for Solukhumbu) – Approx. NRs 2,000 (~$15–20 USD), payable at the entry point.
  • Valid passport and visa for Nepal are necessary.

How to Get There? Accessibility & Transport

You can reach the trailhead by:
  • Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap (via Okhaldhunga) – 7 to 9 hours by public bus or private jeep.
  • Fly to Phaplu from Kathmandu – Short flight (if returning from Phaplu or starting from that end).
Returning options:
  • Trek down to Phaplu and fly/drive back.
  • Extend your trek to Taksindu or Ringmo and even connect to the Everest Base Camp trail at Nunthala.

Who Can Do the Pikey Peak Trek?

  • Ideal for beginner to intermediate trekkers with basic fitness.
  • Children above 10 years and older adults can also complete the trek.
  • No previous high-altitude experience is required, but walking 5–7 hours per day is expected.
  • Suitable for solo trekkers, couples, small groups, and families.

What to Pack for Pikey Peak Trek?

  • Layered clothing (light jacket, down jacket, thermals)
  • Comfortable hiking boots
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag (some lodges provide blankets)
  • Headlamp, charger, and power bank
  • Basic first-aid kit and personal medications
  • Water bottle with purification tablets or filters
  • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
READ MORE “Nepal Trekking Packing List”

Why Pikey Peak Trek is Special (2025 Insight)

  • A Hidden Treasure: Still underrated but gaining popularity for authentic cultural experience and natural beauty.
  • Stunning Everest Views Without Flying to Lukla: No Lukla flight hassles, but same Everest region magic.
  • Sustainable Tourism Growth: In 2025, eco-tourism initiatives and community homestay programs are improving trekking services without overwhelming the trail.
  • Perfect for Shorter Vacations: 5–7 day completion makes it perfect for those with limited time.
  • Ideal Alternative to Popular Treks: Less crowded than EBC, Annapurna, or Langtang Trek.

Conclusion: Should You Do the Pikey Peak Trek in 2025?

Absolutely! If you're looking for an affordable, peaceful, culturally rich, and scenically spectacular trek in Nepal’s Everest region, Pikey Peak Trek is one of the best options. Whether you are a seasoned hiker wanting a quieter trail or a beginner seeking a short Himalayan adventure, this trek promises unforgettable experiences without the altitude extremes or overwhelming foot traffic.

Also check the additional trekking packages we offer in Everest Region.

Need help planning your Nepal trek?

At Raj Bala Treks & Expedition, we specialize in custom-tailored trekking experiences in Nepal’s remote regions. Whether you're leaning toward Pikey Peak Trek or any other Everest Trek, our experienced guides, expert logistics, and personalized support will ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure.

CONTACT US for detailed information, itineraries, and permit assistance. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and plan your next tour, trekking & climbing trip in Nepal with us. We will do our utmost to organize the best tour, trekking & climbing holidays in Nepal you can think of.

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