Pikey Peak Trek – 9 Days
Pikey Peak trek is the closest alternative to trekking in crowded Everest trail. This is newly introduced and less discovered trekking in the Everest region which offers the best of Sherpa culture and the Himalayan scenery. While the trek offers a magnificent view of most sought after peaks of Everest, Kanchanjunga, and Makalu, the trail passes through authentic Sherpa villages and monasteries following the beaten trail.
Many earlier mountaineers and explorers including ‘Sir Edmund Hilary’ have agreed that the view of Mt Everest from Pikey peak is their favorite. One thing is sure that the 4,067 m peak in the lower Everest region is definitely the best viewpoint to look into Mt Everest and other peaks east of Kathmandu. Moreover, the region is easy to access and provide flexible itineraries with the option of driving or flying to the trekking trailhead.
The trekking starts with a scenic drive of flight east of Kathmandu. The rolling hills with cascading waterfalls, terraces, and pristine village in the foreground of snow peaks make the journey awe-inspiring. Once we start walking, authentic Buddhist villages marked by prayers flag and Mane walls greet us. Rustic monasteries and authentic Sherpa villages we pass by are long gone in popular Everest trail. Walkthrough the Rhododendron forest and come to the high pastures with a far-reaching view.
Pikey Peak Trek Highlights
- Scenic drive to Dhap and flight to Kathmandu.
- Excellent sunrise and sunset view from Pikey Peak.
- Closest alternate to trekking in crowded Everest trail.
- Visiting Thuptenchholing Monastery.
- The lush valleys and rhododendron forests.
Pikey Peak Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Drive to Dhap Bazaar 2850m / 7 hrs
On the day, we will leave Kathmandu early in the morning and drive on the newly inaugurated B. P. highway to the little town of Ghurmi in the Koshi River basin. From Ghurmi, the road leads to the higher elevation passing through the Rhododendron forest to Dhap Bazaar. Spend the night in a guest house and explore the town.
Day 3: Trek from Dhap Bazaar to Jhapre 2815m / 5 hrs
We will basically follow the dirt road passing through the village of Sigane. The walking is scenic with the view of Mt Everest and Numbur Himal through the clearing of the Rhododendron forest. Walk around the village and visit the local monastery. Overnight in lodge.
Day 4: Trek from Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp 3640m / 5 hrs
Enjoy the morning view of the Himalayas and start a day’s trek to Pikey peak base camp. The trail climbs through the Rhododendron forest coming to Yak pasture. Cross the long Mane wall and climb further to Pikey peak base camp. Visit the Yak Cheese factory and enjoy the splendid view of snow peaks.
Day 5: Trek to Junbesi 2680m / 6 hrs via Pikey Peak( 4065m )
On the day, we will reach the highest point of our trek. Climb along the rocky ridge to the Pikey peak (4,065 m). The top unveils a wide range of snow peaks from Dhaulagiri in the west till Kanchanjunga in the west. View of Mt Everest, Thamserku, Numbur Himal, Kangtega is the highlight. From the apex climb down to Lamjura pass and further to Junbesi. The days walk is one of the best with the alpine landscape, Himalayan view and walk the Buddhist landmarks of Mane walls and Stupas. Visit the local monastery at Junbesi.
Day 6: Explore the Thuptenchholing Gompa 2920m / 4 hrs
Enjoy the view of Numbur Himal in the morning. Later in a day, go on a side trip hike Thubten Chholing Gompa. The trail ascends following the Junbesi River. The walk is an opportunity to explore pristine Sherpaland and gives dipper insight into the region.
Day 7: Trek from Junbesi to Phaplu 2380m / 4 hrs
The trail from Junbesi descends down the Junbesi River and crosses the suspension bridge to the town of Benighat at the confluence. The day’s walking is scenic and continues unveiling new vista and an opportunity of cultural immersion.
Day 8: Fly from Phaplu to Kathmandu
The 35 mints flight back from Phaplu is a scenic thrill. Enjoy the aerial view of the snowy peaks. Check-in hotel and we will keep the day free for the flight delays, do the laundry or just relax.
Day 9: Departure
Includes:
- 45$ guide wage per day (group size below 10) for group size above 10 - 15 the guide wage is 50$
- Porter wage 25$ per day
- 50$ Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Permit for each individual
- Insurance for local staff
- International airport pick up and drop
Excludes:
- All Hotel accommodations during the trip
- Trekking Equipment
- Major meals, Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu or during the trip
- Airlines and land transport costs during the trip
- Any type of personal expenses, such as alcoholic beverages and drinks, phone and laundry.
- Entry visa fee
- Rescue & travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal effects.
- Tips & Gratuities to porters and guides