Overview
Our journey's crowning glory is the summit of Pikey Peak, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas from Annapurna to Everest to Kanchenjunga. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore charming villages, each with its own unique character and traditions, and immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of ancient monasteries. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, the Pikey Peak Trek promises an unforgettable journey that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Basic Information
Guides: The decision to trek with or without a guide is a personal one. Some trekkers seek the freedom of solitude, while others find comfort in the knowledge and companionship of a local guide. Personally, I prefer to start my journey alone and meet local guides along the way if I would like to know more about the area.
Navigation: For proper navigation, you should always carry a paper map and compass and know how to use them in an emergency. You can pick up any number of paper maps in Thamel, Kathmandu when you arrive. Additionally, I typically use a gps app on my phone like maps.me or AllTrails. Check out the map for my entire route.
Transportation: Most hotel owners in Kathmandu can help you arrange Jeep or plane transportation to your chosen starting point.
Accommodation: Most villages along the Pikey Peak Trek route, even the smaller ones, offer basic accommodation and food options. You do not need to bring camping or cooking gear unless you want the flexibility to spend the night anywhere.
Cash: It's crucial to bring enough cash with you from Kathmandu to cover your expenses during the hike. You will be hiking through remote villages with no option to withdraw cash.
Permits: Permits are easily acquired along the trail, so there's no need to do so in Kathmandu.
Safety: Hiking in the Himalayas is difficult. Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance. Take time to acclimatize and relish rest days amid the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas. Make sure to do your own research and due-diligence. In the end, your safety is your responsibility.
Best Time to Go
The weather on the Pikey Peak Trek varies by season. Regardless of season, layers are essential as temperatures fluctuate.
Spring: The best time to hike the Pikey Peak to see the area in bloom is in the spring, from March to May. The rhododendrons, Nepal's national flower, are in full bloom, and the weather is mild. Additionally, there are fewer people on the trails, which makes for a more tranquil trekking experience.
Autumn: The most well-liked trekking season in Nepal is the autumn (September to November), and for good reason. The ideal conditions for trekking are provided by the clear, dry weather. Great views of the mountains are also made possible by the clear skies. But be aware that the trails might be very busy at this time.
Winter: It is not advised to trek the Pikey Peak during the winter (December-February) because the trails can be icy and snow-covered, which makes them dangerous. In addition, it is extremely cold outside, and there is a lot of snow up higher, making trekking more difficult. However, going in the shoulder season or off season has its benefits.
Summer: The Pikey Peak should not be hiked during Nepal's monsoon season, which lasts from June-August. Since the trails are frequently muddy and slippery, it can be challenging and unpleasant to hike when it rains heavily. The trails may also become impassable in some areas due to landslides and flooding brought on by the heavy rain.
Map
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Starting Point
It's worth noting that the Pikey Peak Trek offers multiple route options depending on individual preferences and time constraints.
Where to start?
Hikers can choose to start their journey from Dhap, Jiri, Salleri, or Phaplu, each offering its own unique charm and challenges. For those seeking a longer and more adventurous experience, the hike can be extended from Junbesi to Surke, serving as a gateway to the renowned Everest Base Camp or the challenging Three Passes Trek.
My Recommendation
Personally, I decided to start from Dhap and continue northward up to the Khumbu (Everest) region to start my Three Passes Trek. However, if you're just doing roundtrip, I would recommend starting from Dhap, summiting Pikey Peak, and then coming back to Salleri/Phaplu or Jiri.
Itinerary
The trek typically takes around 4-7 days to complete, depending on the route and your pace. You have a couple options to make this itinerary your own. Personally I extended my hike to 8-9 days in order to continue up to the Everest region for the Three Passes Trek.
Brief Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arriving in Dhap from Kathmandu
(100 km / 2989 m)
(62 miles / 9806 ft)
As the sun begins to set over the majestic Himalayas, we arrive in the charming village of Dhap. The friendly locals and their equally welcoming dogs greet you with warm smiles, setting the tone for your upcoming adventure. Take a moment to absorb the breathtaking sunset views of the towering peaks, hinting at the incredible journey that awaits you. We settle in for the night, eager for the adventures that await us in the days to come.
Day 2: Hiking from Dhap to Bhulbule
(17.93 km / 3358 m)
(11 miles / 11017 ft)
Embark on your trek through the stunning valleys that connect Dhap to Bhulbule. The trail winds through picturesque landscapes, offering a glimpse into the untouched beauty of Nepal's countryside. As you traverse the gentle slopes, take in the serene atmosphere and let the tranquility of nature envelop you.
Day 3: Hiking from Bhulbule to Pikey Peak Base Camp
(9.36 km / 3746 m)
(5 miles / 12290 ft)
The trail leads us through an enchanting rhododendron forest, its vibrant blooms adding a splash of color to the lush green landscape. As we approach Pikey Peak Base Camp, we find ourselves in a charming cluster of hotels, where the locals welcome us with open arms. We rest our weary legs and prepare for the early morning summit that promises to be the highlight of our hike.
Day 4: An Early Morning Summit followed by a hike to Junbesi
(21.17 km / 4042 m)
(13 miles / 13261 ft)
In the still of the night, we set out for the summit, our headlamps illuminating the path before us. As we climb higher, the first rays of the sun begin to peek over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the snow-capped peaks. At the summit, we are rewarded with a panoramic view of the Himalayas that takes our breath away. Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu stand tall and proud, their majestic presence humbling us in the face of nature's grandeur.
After basking in the glory of the summit, we begin our descent back into the rhododendron forest. The trail is long but gentle, allowing us to take in the beauty of our surroundings at a leisurely pace. As we arrive in Junbesi, we find ourselves charmed by the village's unique architecture and the nearby monasteries that beckon us to explore their ancient halls.
Day 5: Taking a Rest Day in Junbesi
(0 km / 2667 m)
(0 miles / 8750 ft)
We take a well-deserved rest day in Junbesi, my favorite village of the hike. The intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere of the nearby monasteries, Thubten Choling and Phugmoche, captivate our hearts and minds. We spend the day wandering through the village, engaging with the locals, and immersing ourselves in the rich cultural beauty of the region.
Day 6: Hiking from Junbesi to Jubing
(23.26 km / 3054 m)
(14 miles / 10019 ft)
For those who wish to continue onwards to the Khumbu region, the path leads us from Junbesi to Jubing. The hike is long, but the trail offers plenty of opportunities to explore other villages along the way. We take our time, savoring each moment and the unique experiences that each village has to offer.
Day 7: Hiking from Jubing to Bumburi
(4.67 km / 2072 m)
(2 miles / 6797 ft)
We venture off the beaten path to the village of Bumburi, a hidden gem that captures our hearts with its warm and welcoming inhabitants. We spend the night in a monastery, immersing ourselves in the spiritual essence of the place. The village's authenticity and the genuine kindness of its people leave an indelible mark on our souls.
Day 8: Hiking from Bumburi to Kharikhola
(4.06 km / 2143 m)
(2 miles / 7030 ft)
The hike from Bumburi to Kharikhola is short and gentle, allowing us to take in the stunning landscapes at a relaxed pace. As we arrive in Kharikhola, we find ourselves surrounded by the bustling activity of farm life, the locals tending to their crops with a sense of purpose and dedication that is truly inspiring.
Day 9: Hiking from Kharikhola to Surke
(23.35 km / 2913 m)
(14 miles / 9557 ft)
Our final day on the trail is a long and demanding one, but the anticipation of reaching Surke, the last village before the most popular EBC route in Nepal, fuels our determination. As we arrive in Surke, we feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the incredible journey we have undertaken, the memories we have made, and the people we have met along the way.
My Favorite Highlights
As an avid hiker and storyteller, I've had the privilege of exploring the breathtaking Pikey Peak Trek in Nepal. Along the way, I discovered several hidden gems that left a lasting impression on my memory. Here are three personal highlights that I believe every hiker should experience:
Pikey Peak Summit
Standing atop Pikey Peak at sunrise, I was awestruck by the panoramic view of the Himalayas. The golden light illuminating the snow-capped peaks of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu was a sight I will never forget. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the moment made the early morning trek to the summit an unforgettable experience.
Junbesi Village
Junbesi quickly became my favorite village along the hike. The unique architecture, friendly locals, and nearby monasteries, Thubten Choling and Phugmoche, captured my heart. I spent hours exploring the village, engaging with the locals, and immersing myself in the rich Sherpa culture. The authentic experiences and genuine connections I made in Junbesi will stay with me forever. If you're looking for a place to stay, I can't recommend Junbesi Homestay enough :)
Bumburi Village
Venturing off the beaten path to Bumburi was a decision I'll never forget. This hidden gem of a village welcomed me with open arms, and the warmth of the locals left a lasting impression on my soul. Spending the night in a monastery allowed me to connect with the spiritual essence of the place, making my time in Bumburi an unforgettable highlight of my hike.
Cost
While the Pikey Peak Trek is relatively affordable compared to other popular routes in Nepal, it's essential to budget accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
| Item |
Cost |
| Transportation |
$18 one way |
| Food |
$8 to $18 per day per person |
| Accommodation |
$4 to $8 per night |
| Permits |
Varies |
| Local Guide |
$25 to $35 per day, plus a tip |
| Total for 7 Days |
$108 - $410 |
Transportation
Jeep transportation from Kathmandu to your chosen starting point typically costs around $18 one way.
Food
Expect to spend between $8 to $18 per day per person on food, depending on your preferences and the availability of options in the villages along the route.
Accommodation
Double rooms in the villages along the route usually cost between $4 to $8 per night. Some guesthouses may offer free accommodation if you agree to purchase a couple of meals from them.
Permits
The cost of permits varies depending on your starting point. Be sure to research the current permit requirements and fees for your specific route.
Local Guide
If you choose to hire a local guide, expect to pay between $25 to $35 per day, plus a tip. However, if you prefer to hike independently, you can save on this cost.
Recommended Gear
The Pikey Peak Trek requires essential hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm and waterproof clothing layers, a reliable backpack, a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, and a headlamp. Don't forget to pack a reusable water bottle, water purification system, and basic first aid kit. Additionally, bring sun protection, such as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, as well as a map, compass, and navigation tools. It's crucial to be well-prepared with the right gear to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience in the Himalayas.
The provided gear list is a suggestion, tailor it to your needs. Prioritize safety by packing and preparing well for a happy, adventurous hike.
Interested in all of my gear recommendations? Click the button below to see what I recommend for filming, travel, and fun :)
Explore All Gear
Conclusion
The Pikey Peak Trek is a truly remarkable journey that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal growth. As you traverse the trails, you'll be challenged physically and mentally, but the rewards are immeasurable. From the stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas to the heartwarming interactions with locals, this hike will leave an indelible mark on your soul. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on an adventure that will stay with you long after you've returned home. The Pikey Peak Trek awaits, ready to inspire and transform you in ways you never thought possible.
Check out a video that I made about the entire trip! I tried my best to capture all of the little beautiful moments by letting them speak for themselves. So there are no explanations or speaking in this video, just moments :)
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Safety Disclosure
This travel guide is intended for educational purposes only. Readers are urged to conduct their due diligence, verify current conditions, and research the most recent information independently. Conditions along trails and relevant details may change, necessitating the confirmation of accurate and updated information from reliable sources or local authorities before undertaking any travel or outdoor activities.
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