Pikey Peak Trek is a newly discovered trekking route to the Everest region. This trek takes you to beautiful areas in Everest inhabited by Sherpa settlements. This trek is also known as the Dal Bhat Trek and is one of the best hilltop destinations that give you panoramic views of the Mount Everest and other neighbouring peaks of the region.
The trek route to Pikey Peak is less travelled than the other areas in the Everest region. But, in recent years, Pikey Peak trek has gained a lot of popularity. The trek is suitable for everyone who wants to explore the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest and the rugged landscapes of the Everest region. Along with this, the trek offers you with some of the magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges such as Mount Dhaulagiri, Kanchanjunga, Lhotse, Makalu and many more.
If you are looking for a short trek near the Everest region, Pikey Peak Trek would be best for you. This trek not only offers you with wonderful mountain views and scenic beauty but also the cultural exploration of the Sherpas living in the Everest region. Lying at the height of 4067 meters, trekking to the Pikey Peak may not be very difficult especially for an experienced trekker. However, we suggest physical exercises before trekking for the beginners.
Our eight days itinerary for Pikey Peak Trek is designed for both experienced as well as beginner trekkers. Pikey Peak Trek is basically a moderate level short trekking destination in the Everest region. So, if you have a time limitation and still want to explore the Everest region, you can join us at Exciting Nepal. Follow this article if you want to know more about your incredible trip to Pikey Peak Trek.
Note: Looking for the short trek? We have designed 7 Days short Pikey Peak trek, checkout the itinerary.
Trip Highlights of Pikey Peak Trek
- Exploring the unique culture and tradition of Sherpa people.
- Amazing views of some of the highest peaks in the world such as Mount Everest, Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Dhaulagiri, Lhotse, Makalu, etc.
- Visiting different ancient and beautiful monasteries of the region.
- Trekking up to the Peak Peak for beautiful sunrise views.
Best Time for Pikey Peak Trek
Trekking to the Pikey Peak is doable in every season but, the different season will offer you with different landscapes, environment, and experience. There are typically four seasons in Nepal, Autumn, Spring, Summer, and Winter. All these seasons have their own pros and cons. Considering this, you can choose the best time for your trek.
Autumn (September, October, November)
Autumn is considered as the best time of the year for Pikey Peak Trek. It is also known as the post-monsoon period due to which you can expect the least rainfall when trekking during this season. However, you have to be a bit careful when trekking in the month of September as you might have to go with some light rainfall.
The weather and temperature during autumn are mild and favourable for trekking. The daytime temperature ranges between 9-15 degrees in the Everest region. You will see a slight decrease in temperature as you trek to a higher altitude.As always, nights are colder but you’ll do good with some warm gears. Overall, autumn offers suitable weather and temperature for Pikey Peak Trek.
Spring (March, April, May)
Spring is the second-best time of the year for Pikey Peak trek. It is considered as the time of the year when the nature is most beautiful. Spring is the pre-monsoon period and it is the time when nature regenerates its lost beauty. New plants grow and flowers bloom during this time. You can see yourself surrounded by rhododendron forest while trekking to the Pikey Peak during this season.
The increasing number of trekkers in the spring season is because of the favourable weather and temperature it offers. The daytime temperature ranges between 10-20 degrees during this season. You may not expect rainfall during this season. However, occasional rain may occur during early May so be prepared with your rain gears.
Offseason Trek to Pikey Peak
Offseason trek refers to trekking during Winter and monsoon seasons. Trekking to Pikey Peak during winter and monsoon are not popular as Autumn and Spring. During Winter the temperature of the Everest region falls to a minus degree. Due to the extreme cold and less number of trekkers in the region, most the lodges and tea houses remain closed. So, you may have a difficult time searching for a proper hotel and lodge for yourself. Walking on the snowy trails may also be difficult for you.
Similarly, monsoon falls in the month of June, July, and August. During monsoon, the Everest region faces a lot of rain. Because of the rainfall, the trails to Pikey Peak becomes wet and slippery. It may be quite demanding when trekking in such muddy trails. So, you will see comparatively few numbers of people trekking to Pikey Peak during winter and Monsoon seasons.
Accommodation at Pikey Peak Trek
Pikey peak trek is a teahouse trekking route. You will find teahouses and lodges at various places on the trek where you can stay for overnight. Do not expect the facilitated tea houses. The tea houses will provide you good services, but the services will be very basic.
Most of the tea houses provides room in a twin sharing basis. You can share the room with your fellow trekker who you feel comfortable with. The tea houses have a common dining hall where you can rest, surf your electronic gadgets, or communicate with other trekkers.
Along with food and stay, teahouses also provide facilities of hot showers and laundry. They will charge you extra amount for using services like wifi, extra blankets, boiled drinking water, hot showers, and laundry. The cost of teahouses depends upon the place and the facilities/services they provide. Price ranges from $2-$15 just for a room.
Some Tips for Pikey Peak Trek
Carry Appropriate Trekking Gear
Packing for your Pikey Peak Trek is very important. Do not forget to pack appropriate trekking gear with you according to the time of the year you will be trekking. When trekking during monsoon season, make sure you have carried rain gears with you.
Physical Exercises
Pikey Peak Trek does not require any technical training. But, physical exercises before your trek plays a vital role in making your trek easy and comfortable. It would be better to involve yourself in activities such as running, cycling or swimming three weeks before your trek.
Walk Slow
Walking slowly is a better option when it comes to high altitude trekking. It will make you less tired and you can simply enjoy your trekking experience by walking slow. Make sure that you do not rush your way to reach your destination sooner.
Hire a Guide and a Porter
It is better to hire a guide and a porter for your Pikey Peak Trek. A guide will always be there to assist you throughout your journey. They will take you through the routes which are easier and help you to interact with the local people too. In this way, you will get to know a lot about a particular culture.
Similarly, hiring a porter will reduce the pressure on your back. They will carry your bags which will make you easier and comfortable while walking. So, hiring a guide and a porter would be a good option for a comfortable trekking experience.
Altitude Profile
Day 01: Arrival and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu
Day 02: Free and arrangement day
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya
Day 04: Shivalaya to Bhandar
Day 05: Bhandar to Namkheli
Day 06: Namkheli to Ngamor Gumpa
Day 07: Ngamor Gumpa to Pikey Danda(Pikey Peak)
Day 08: Pikey Danda to Junbesi
Day 09: Hike to Thutungchheli Monastery then back to Lodge(hotel)
Day 10: Junbesi to Sete Via Lamazura La pass
Day 11: Trek Sete to Bhandar (2,200m) 5/6 hours walk, overnight at Lodge
Day 12: Trek to Shivalaya
Day 13:Return back to Kathmandu (210km)
Day 01: Arrival and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu
On this day, you will land at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After your arrival, our hotel representative will receive you at the airport. he /she will escort you to your hotel. You can take some rest in the hotel. You can walk around the streets of Kathmandu in the evening. Or you can simply stay in your room.
Overnight in Kathmandu at a hotel.
Day 02: Free and arrangement day
Today is your second day in Kathmandu. We will invite you to our office for a demonstration section. On this section, we will introduce you to your trekking partners and your guides. You will have a chance to exchange your greetings. You can also ask us if you have any queries related to the trek.
If you need some trekking gears or accessories, we can help you buy them. There are many shops in Thamel where you can buy the trekking gears.
If you have already bought all your trekking gears, you will have a free day. You can spend the day doing anything you like. You can go on sightseeing tours around the Kathmandu valley. There are many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu. They are Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Changu Narayan temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Swoyambhu Nath Temple. You can visit some of them.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Shivalaya
Highest Altitude: 1770 meters
Driving Duration: 7-8 hours
Today is the day you will officially leave for your trip to Pikey Peak. you will take a private or local bus from Kathmandu to Shivalaya. It will take you around 7-8 hours to reach Shivalaya. You will have a scenic drive to Shivalaya following the Karnali river bank with the views of gorgeous mountains of the Himalayas.
After reaching Shivalaya, you will take a rest at one of the teahouses at Shivalaya. Overnight at Shivalaya.
Day 04: Shivalaya to Bhandar
Highest Altitude: 2190 meters
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
On this day, you will have your breakfast and head towards Bhandar. You will start your trek from Shivalaya walking through Bharkaur, Mani Danda which sits at an altitude of 2440 meters. You will have to trek through different uphills and downhills throughout the trails on this day.
Following the parallel paths with the views of some of the majestic mountains such as Mount Dhaulagiri, Lhotse and Kanchenjunga, you will reach Bhandar. You will stay overnight at one of the teahouses at Bhandar.
Day 05: Bhandar to Namkheli
Highest Altitude: 2300 meters
Trekking Duration: 6 hours
On this day, you will trek to Namkheli from Bhandar. You will ascend towards Namkheli from Bhandar which sits at an altitude of 2300 meters. Along the way, you will have to climb different uphills and downhills surrounding yourself with the beauty of majestic Himalayas.
Between Bhandar and Thorung you can find around five different airports. Among these airports, the closest to Namkheli is Jiri Airport which is 18.9 kilometres away from Namkheli. On reaching Namkheli, you will stay overnight at one of the teahouses.
Day 06: Namkheli to Ngamor Gumpa
Highest Altitude: 2800 meters
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
On this day, you will start your trek from Namkheli to explore the Ngamor Gumpa. Ngamor Gumpa is a culturally significant Guumpa which sits at an elevation of 2800 meters. You will have to walk for about 6-7 hours from Namkheli to reach the Ngamor Gumpa.
Between your trek, you will take a break to have your lunch. After having your lunch, you will descend towards a steep hill before you reach Ngamor Gumpa.
Day 07: Ngamor Gumpa to Pikey Danda, Pikey Peak
Highest Altitude: 4065 meters
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
After exploring the Ngamor Gumpa, today you will be trekking towards the Pkey Danda or Pikey Peak. Pikey Peak sits at an altitude of 4065 meters which will take you around 4-5 hours to reach from Ngamor Gumpa.
After reaching up to the Pikey Peak, you will get a chance to view some of the magnificent mountains of the Everest region such as Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Dhaulagiri etc. After exploring the mountains and the beautiful scenery from the top, you will head down towards Jhapre.
Overnight at Pikey Danda.
Day 08: Pikey Danda to Junbesi
Highest Altitude: 2700 meters
Trekking Duration: 7 hours
After trekking up to Pikey Peak, you will descend towards Junbesi on this day. You will follow the way to Jase Bhajyang, surrounding yourself with Kanchenjunga and Dhaulagiri mountain range as well as the Everest.
You will follow a downhill trekking route along with beautiful landscape and finally reach Junbesi valley that sits at the height of 2700 meters. Overnight at Junbesi.
Day 09: Hike to Thutungchheli Monastery then back to Lodge.
Highest Altitude: 3050 meters
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
You will wake up early in the morning and head towards Thutungcheheli Monastery which stands at an altitude of 3050 meters. From Junbesi, you will take an ascend towards the monastery. The Thutungchheli monastery is also known as the little Tibet where you will get to learn about the ancient and traditional Tibetan Medical Therapy.
After exploring the Thutungchheli Monastery, you will head back to Junbesi. Overnight at Junbesi.
Day 10: Junbesi to Sete Via Lamazura La pass
Highest Altitude: 3530 meters
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
You will leave Junbesi on this day and start walking towards Sete. you will take an ascend through Lamazura which is the highest point of today’s trek, standing at the height of 3530 meters. From Lamazura La Pass you will head downwards to reach Sete.
Sete sits at an altitude of 2520 meters. The first ascend to Sete is quite steep taking you to the village inhabited by Sherpa people.
Day 11: Trek Sete to Bhandar (2,200m) 5/6 hours walk, overnight at Lodge
Highest Altitude: 2200 meters
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Today, you will wake up early in the morning and head towards Bhandar from Sete, admiring the beautiful mountain vistas along the way. Bhandar lies at the height of 2200 meters and it will take you around 5-6 hours to reach Bhandar from Sete.
The trekking trail follows the same route to Shivalaya, which you will be trekking on the next day. Overnight at Bhandar.
Day 12: Trek to Shivalaya
Highest Altitude: 1750 meters
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Today is the last day of your trek. Leaving Shivalaya, you will move downward towards Shivalaya. You can also take an alternative route between Bhandar and Sangbadanda. After walking for 4-5 hours you will reach Shivalaya where you will stay at one of the lodges. You can rest and enjoy your day as you will be leaving for Kathmandu tomorrow.
Day 13: Drive Back to Kathmandu (210km)
Driving Duration: 7-8 hours
Early in the morning, you will take a private or local bus to Kathmandu. It will take you around 7-8 hours to reach Kathmandu from Shivalay. Viewing the exotic scenery just from your window, you will reach Kathmandu.
On reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Trip Cost US$ 995 Per person
Cost Includes:
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private vehicle.
- Two night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Bus sharing Land transport as per the itinerary.
- All your stander Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
- Tea House hotel accommodation during the trek.
- A highly experienced, helpful and friendly government license holder Guide, his food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipments, medicine.
- A Strong Porter among the two trekkers ( one porter sharing among two member ) including all his expenses including full insurance during the trek.
- National Park permits.
- TIMS (trekkers’ information management System.)
- Medical supplies, first aid kit box, including Oximeter and pulse meter checker.
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance company). If in case.
- Sleeping bag, down Jacket, Duffel bag and walking Poles (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed).
- All ground transportation.
- All our government taxes.
- Official expanse
Cost Excludes:
- Your travel insurance. (recommended)
- International air fare.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry.
- Personal trekking Equipments.
- Extra night hotel in Kathmandu.
- Activities in Kathmandu.
FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions
Trekking to a new place can always be nerve-wracking disregard of the number of times you might have done it. Every place has its own culture, non-verbal norms and values, government policies and so on.
Having even the basic knowledge about the place can boost your confidence and give you a positive anticipation of the experience you can gain from the place.
If you are looking forward to trek in Nepal, this article will indeed be of great use to refer to. Answered below, are some of the most frequently asked questions about trekking in Nepal.
1. Is trekking difficult?
The difficulty level of the trek entirely depends upon the trek you chose.
If you happen to be trekking for the first time, or your physical condition does not permit you to (because of age or other medical conditions) you can always look for easy treks.
Easy treks have shorter number of days, less distance to be walked in a day, and relatively lower altitudes. You do not have to have prior experience or knowledge to trek to these places.
If you are adventurer and are looking for some thrill, you have plenty of options to choose from. Difficult treks have longer number of days. You will have to walk for 5-7hrs a day on an average and these treks are mostly situated in high altitudes. These treks also demand a good level of physical fitness.
Unlike other product, trekking is not about more for better. The difficulty level has got nothing to do with the experience you can gain from a trek.
Go for what you want to and what your physical ability will allow you to. Do not push yourself too hard. Trekking is not a competition. Its relaxation.
2. Is trekking expensive?
This entirely depends upon how much you are willing to spend on your trek. You can trek luxuriously by spending lavishly or you can backpack. It all depends upon how much your bank balance allows you to.
You will get accommodation for as less as 3-4$ per night, or you can pay up to 60-1004 per night for luxury resorts. On an average, you will need not more than 10$ for a meal. If you are looking for economical places, you can eat 3 meals for 10$! But eating at such places come at a great cost of low hygiene rate.
Bottom line: Nepal is not an expensive place when it comes to tourism. It is probably one of the places you can have the most economical luxury trek comparing to what a luxury trek would otherwise cost in your country!
3. What preparations should I make before trekking?
It is always a good idea to involve yourself in doing physical exercises before trekking. Not that you have to be all athletic and muscular to trek. An average level of physical fitness will make the journey less stressful.
Ending up with sore muscles, blisters, joint pain, and back pain can be very discomforting while trekking. This is unlikely to happen if you exercise beforehand.
Start exercising at least a month before the trek. You can do cardio exercises like running, jogging, long walks, cycling and swimming. Carry a light backpack along with you to get used to it. Gym work out can be a good option too. Just don’t over-do it.
If you are going on an easy trek, you need not be very physically fit. But prior exercising is still a good option. You will only make your journey more comfortable.
4. What are the things I need to pack?
There are a long list of things you will need for trekking. The things you carry can affect the entire experience of your journey. So make sure that while purchasing any gear, make no compromisation on the quality or the brand of the equipment.
Some of the equipments are listed below:
- Lightweight trainers/shoes for wear in lodges.
- Waterproof jacket.
- Waterproof trousers.
- Fleece jacket.
- Down jacket.
- Fleece/sweater
- Light-weight fleece or wool vests.
- Long or short-sleeved shirt; often more comfortable to wear than a fleece vest or T-shirt.
- Warm hiking trousers.
- Underwear.
- Warm hat (can be purchased in Kathmandu for a couple of pounds).
- Wide rimmed sun hat.
- A good quality Ultra-light Backpacking Sleeping Bags that is comfort temperature up to -15 degree Celsius. It is not necessary to carry ultra-light backpacking sleeping bags but ultra-light will reduce the backpack weight.
- 2 – 3 pairs good quality walking socks.
- Warm gloves or mitts.
- Large rucksack or Duffel bag. (55 to 70 liters)
- Rucksack liner or thick bin bag.
- Day sack. (25 to 40 liters)
- Dark sunglasses.
- High factor sun-cream.
- Lip balm preferably with sun bloc.
- Ear plugs. (Walls in lodges are very thin)
- Head torch/torch and spare batteries.
- 1 liter 2 water bottle.
- Water purification kit. (On trek you will need to drink 3 – 4 liters of fluids each day)
- Toiletries.
- Small hand towel. (Do not bring large towel. They are bulky and heavy)
- Toilet paper. (You can buy poor quality paper along the route)
5. Do I need special permission to trek?
You will not need trekking permits in any of the treks in the Everest region, the Annapurna region and also in the Langtang region. But you will have to pay entry fees while entering a conservation area or a national park.
Trekking permits are a must for trekking in the restricted regions. The permits are available for purchase in the department of immigration located in Dillibazaar, Kathmandu. For further information, refer to-
http://www.taan.org.np/pages/trekking-permit-fees
6. Is drinking water easily available?
Availability of drinking water is not the problem. The problem is the cost of it at higher altitude. As you gain height, the price of water rises up to 2-3$ per liter.
An alternative way of getting drinking water is by having your water bottles filled in tea houses. Tea houses will provide you boiled water for about 0.4-0.7$ per liter. They are completely safe for drinking.
Therefore, do not forget to take at least two water bottles with you.
7. What kind of food is available during trekking?
Food is not of any concern while trekking. You will get all kinds of cuisines. For breakfast, tea houses will provide you with eggs cooked in your preferred style along with pan cakes, bread butter, roti, and so on.
Various other dishes like pizza, pasta, momo, chowmein and many more are also available. The most preferred dish is Dal Bhaat. It is a typical Nepali meal. Rice is served with vegetable curry, lentils, tomato chutney and meat curry. The best part- an extra helping will no cost you extra! The meal is highly nutritional. It will also keep you fueled for long walks.
8. What kind of accommodation should I expect?
Accommodation depends upon the type of trekking you are going for. There are two types of trekking
1. Tea house trekking:
You will be spending your night in tea houses. Tea houses are local lodges and hotels. They are small and comfortable enough. Most rooms are shared with two small cots that have mattress, pillows and sheets. If you need spare blankets, you can always ask for it. The rooms have attached bathroom, western flush designed and shower. You will have to pay for hot shower and electricity.
Dormitories are also available and a very low cost of about 3-4$ per night. These come with common toilets and bathrooms.
The cleanliness of the rooms may not live up to your expectations. Bring your own pillow if possible. Conjunctivitis is a common case you might fall sick of.
2. Camp treks
In this type, you will spend your nights in tented camps. Such treks mostly lie in the restricted regions. These regions do not have enough facilities to accommodate many people.
9. What are the risks associated with trekking?
Trekking is an extreme sport and does come with a lot of risks. Some unavoidable risks are avalanche, heavy rainfall, earthquake, landslide and other such natural calamities.
You might fall and injure yourself or catch some viral flue. The deadliest risk of trekking is AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness. This sickness occurs when a great altitude is gained and the body fails to adjust to the changing pressures associated with it. Anyone can fall a victim of the sickness and if not treated in time, it can be fatal.
10. How to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?
There is absolutely nothing you can do to prepare your body for altitude sickness. But yo can take few precautionary measures to avoid it. They are-
- Attain height gradually and slowly
- As you cross over 2000meters, reduce your number of walking hours and walk slow
- Drink plenty of water
- Take ample rest. Take more rest if you feel like your body is asking for it
- Eat high caloric food
- Avoid smoking or drinking
11. How to diagnose AMS?
In order to detect AMS, you need to be aware of the symptoms of them. They are-
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Upset stomach
- Feeling unsteady
- Shortness of breath
- Increased heart rate
- Difficulty sleeping
If you notice any of the symptoms, take immediate precautionary measures such as:
- Do not climb any higher for the next 48 hours
- Descend to a lower altitude if possible
- Take complete rest until you feel well
- Do not exercise
- Do not smoke
- Drink plenty of water
- Take external oxygen supply if necessary
- Take anti-sickness medicines
If you see no further improvement in your heath within the next 48 hours, you will have to be deported to Kathmandu in a helicopter. Therefore, do not forget to issue and insurance that will cover you helicopter reuse cost.
12. Do I need a guide/porter to trek?
There is no such hard and fast rule that you must have one. But it is highly advisable to travel with them. Some of the treks cannot be trekked without a guide most of them are the restricted ones.
A guide is someone who will help you with navigations. He will also have a better idea about the places to live in and eat at can negotiated prices for you. They will also help you during medical emergencies.
A porter is someone who will carry your load for you so that you can enjoy long walks.
In case you hire them, you are entirely responsible for providing them with trekking gears, food and accommodation and other medical facilities.
Guide/porter as also available these days. These are people who play the role of both a guide and a porter. Hiring them will save you from bearing an additional cost.
13. Can I trek solo?
To some places, yes. But trekking solo in the restricted area is completely forbidden. You will have to trek in a group.
A lot of people trek solo in Nepal and have thoroughly enjoyed. Trekking solo has its own benefits. You will not have to adjust your schedule according to anyone. You can also follow your own route as you wish to. Also, finding your way, especially in the non-restricted regions, is very easy. The routes are well marked and pretty straight.
Nepal is completely safe for solo trekkers. But you will also have to be a little more careful while travelling alone.
14. What is the difference between trekking independently and trekking with an agency?
Trekking independently means trekking without an agency. You can hire a guide or a porter if you want to. You may also have a trekking partner. But the entire journey depends upon the way you want to take it.
In treks organized by agencies, they will have a well-planned schedule designed for you which you will have to strictly follow. Most of the times, you will be travelling with a group. The agency will also provide you with a guide and a porter. Trekking with an agency will be a little more expensive than trekking independently or solo.
15. Which is the best season to trek in Nepal?
Every season as its own charm. However, the best seasons are spring lasting from April to May and autumn lasting from September to November.
In these two season, Nepal sees the maximum number of tourists who come to trek. These are the busiest months of the year. The weather is highly pleasant and favorable for long walks. The trails are blossoming with fresh leaves and flowers. The clear skies allow you to get a great view of the magnificent Himalayas.
Conclusion
The above information covers up almost everything you need to know about trekking. If you happen to have any queries, please feel free to leave a comment below or inbox us at [email protected]
