⇀ Start

• Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu

Recommended Arrival Time: No later than 4:00 PM on Day 1

↼ End

• Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu

Departure Time: Any time on Day 9

To ensure you don’t miss the pre-trek briefing and welcome dinner, we recommend arriving in Kathmandu by 4:00 PM on the first day of your itinerary. Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will greet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel.

Trek Transportation Details

Your Pikey Peak Trek includes overland travel through eastern Nepal's scenic countryside.

Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar (Trek Starting Point)

• Shared jeep or local bus

Phaplu to Kathmandu (Trek Ending Point)

• Return journey by shared jeep or bus
  
  

All road transportation (shared jeep and bus) during the trek is included in the package. If you prefer more comfort, private vehicle upgrades are available upon request—please contact us in advance to make arrangements.

Airport Transfers in Kathmandu

We provide private airport pick-up and drop-off services to ensure a smooth start and end to your journey. Whether you're just arriving or heading home, our team is there to assist with your transfers.

Reaching the Pikey Peak trail is straightforward and fully arranged. With airport transfers and ground transport included, you can relax and focus on enjoying your trek. From your arrival in Kathmandu to your return after the trek, we take care of all logistics so you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the Himalayas.

Foods on the Pikey Peak Trek

Your meals during the Pikey Peak Trek are designed to provide both comfort and nourishment throughout the journey, blending authentic Nepali cuisine with familiar international options.

In Kathmandu:

• Breakfast: Provided daily at your comfortable 3-star hotel.
• Welcome Dinner: On the day of your arrival, enjoy a warm welcome dinner hosted by Places Nepal Treks at a traditional Nepali restaurant featuring authentic dishes like dal bhat, momo (dumplings), and local curries.
• Farewell Dinner: After completing your trek, celebrate your Himalayan adventure with a farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

During Road Travel (Day 2 & Day 8):

While traveling between Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar (Day 2) and Phaplu to Kathmandu (Day 8) in local transportation, your guide will assist you in arranging lunch at roadside eateries, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

During the Trek:

• Included: Daily breakfast at the teahouses is included in your package.
• Lunch & Dinner: These meals are not included in the trip cost, giving you the flexibility to choose from the teahouse menus.

You can expect the following types of food during the trek:

➤ Breakfast Options:

• Tibetan bread with jam, honey, or eggs
• Pancakes (plain, apple, or chocolate)
• Porridge or muesli with milk
• Chapati with peanut butter or curry
• Boiled eggs or omelets
• Tea, coffee, and hot lemon

➤ Lunch and Dinner Options:

• Dal Bhat (lentil soup, rice, vegetable curry – a high-energy staple meal)
• Fried rice or noodles (veg/egg/meat)
• Vegetable or chicken momo (dumplings)
• Sherpa stew (a hearty local soup)
• Pasta, spaghetti, or macaroni with cheese or tomato sauce
• Pizza (veg, cheese, or mixed, available at larger teahouses)
• Soups (garlic, tomato, mushroom, noodle)

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, and most teahouses use fresh, local ingredients.

Accommodation on the Pikey Peak Trek

In Kathmandu:

Your stay in Kathmandu includes three nights at a comfortable 3-star hotel, offering:

• Clean and cozy twin-sharing rooms with attached bathrooms
• Hot showers and modern Western-style toilets
• Complimentary Wi-Fi and daily breakfast
• 24-hour front desk and travel assistance
• Central location, with easy access to markets, restaurants, and cultural landmarks
• This urban retreat is a relaxing base before and after your trek.

During the Trek:

Accommodation during the Pikey Peak Trek is primarily provided in local teahouses and mountain lodges, which offer basic but welcoming hospitality:

• Rooms: Simple twin-sharing rooms with wooden beds, foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Some teahouses offer private rooms, but most have shared sleeping arrangements.
• Bathrooms: Usually shared, with either squat or Western-style toilets. Hot showers are available for an extra charge.
• Dining Areas: A common dining hall with a central stove provides warmth, a place to eat, socialize with fellow trekkers, and enjoy mountain views.
• Electricity & Charging: Available in most teahouses for a small fee, but power can be limited—bringing a power bank is recommended.
• Warmth: Rooms are not heated, so a personal sleeping bag is highly recommended, especially in colder months.

Teahouses are operated by local Sherpa families, offering not only shelter but also a rich opportunity for cultural exchange and warm hospitality in the high Himalayas.

In summary, the Pikey Peak Trek offers a balanced blend of comfort and authenticity—nutritious meals, reliable accommodations, and genuine local hospitality that elevate the trekking experience beyond just the trail.

This trek is rated Easy.

The Pikey Peak Trek offers a gentle introduction to Himalayan trekking, perfect for first‑timers, families and walkers of all ages who want breathtaking scenery without extreme exertion.

Difficulty & Altitude

• Rated “easy,” with well‑graded trails and no technical sections

• Summit elevation: 4,065 m (13,335 ft) at Pikey Peak—high enough for 360° mountain panoramas yet low enough to keep altitude‑sickness risk minimal

Daily Walking

• 4–6 hours on comfortable, clearly marked paths

• Gentle ascents through rhododendron forests, traditional Sherpa villages and open ridges

Experience & Support

• No prior trekking experience or technical skills required

• Full support from licensed guides and porters, so you carry only a daypack

Why Choose Pikey Peak?

• Accessible pace and terrain make it suitable for all fitness levels

• Ideal balance of cultural immersion and natural beauty

• A rewarding Himalayan adventure with minimal physical strain

The weather along the Pikey Peak Trek profoundly shapes your journey, with each season offering distinct conditions and spectacular views of the Everest region’s highest summits—Everest (8,848 m), Makalu (8,463 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Thamserku, and Numbur Himal. For the clearest panoramas, plan your trek in spring or autumn.

Spring (March to May)

• Conditions: Mild days (10–20 °C), cool nights

• Highlights: Blooming rhododendron forests, stable skies, uninterrupted mountain views

• Why Go: Comfortable trekking temperatures and vibrant flora make this a prime season to admire the Everest range in full clarity.

Autumn (September to November)

• Conditions: Dry, stable air; moderate daytime temperatures; chilly nights

• Highlights: Crisp, dust‑free skies and exceptional visibility of snow‑capped peaks

• Why Go: Post‑monsoon freshness ensures crystal‑clear views and comfortable hiking conditions.

Winter (December to February)

• Conditions: Cold, dry—daytime highs of 5–12 °C, nights often below freezing

• Highlights: Snow‑blanketed trails and virtually cloud‑free skies

• Why Go: Fewer fellow trekkers and pristine winter landscapes yield an almost private, serene experience.

Monsoon (June to August)

• Conditions: Heavy rainfall in lower areas; persistent cloud cover at altitude

• Drawbacks: Slippery trails and limited visibility

• Why Skip: While the hills turn lush and green, frequent downpours and obstructed views make trekking more challenging.

The Pikey Peak Trek is graded easy to moderate, so you don’t need mountaineering experience—but basic fitness will make every day on the trail more comfortable and fun. Aim to start your preparation 4–6 weeks before departure and focus on these key areas:

1. Cardiovascular Endurance

• Goal: Build stamina for 4–6‑hour walking days.

• Exercises: Brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming 3–4 times per week.

• Progression: Begin with 30‑minute sessions and increase to 60–90 minutes.

2. Leg Strength

• Goal: Power up for uphill climbs and descents.

• Workouts: Squats, lunges, step‑ups, and stair climbs 2–3 times per week.

• Tip: Use a weighted backpack for stair or step‑up drills to mimic trail conditions.

3. Backpack Conditioning

• Goal: Get comfortable carrying gear.

• Routine: During longer walks or hikes, carry a daypack loaded to 5–7 kg.

• Benefit: Adapts your shoulders, back, and core to the trek’s load.

4. Endurance Hikes

• Goal: Train for varied terrain and elevation gain.

• Plan: Do 1–2 longer hikes (2–3 hours) on uneven or hilly terrain each week.

• Variation: If possible, tackle local trails that gain 300–500 m in elevation.

5. Flexibility & Recovery

• Goal: Prevent muscle tightness and injury.

• Activities: Daily stretching or yoga focusing on hips, calves, hamstrings, and lower back.

• Recovery: Allow at least one rest or light‑activity day per week.

6. Altitude Acclimatization (Optional)

• Goal: Ease into thinner air, even though Pikey Peak tops out at 4,065 m.

• Tips: If you live at low altitude, plan a weekend hike above 2,000 m—or simply move at a slower pace on Day 1 of your trek to help your body adjust.

With consistent training using this Places Nepal's fitness routine, you’ll arrive confident and energized—ready to enjoy the rhododendron forests, Sherpa villages, and unforgettable 360° views from Pikey Peak.

The Pikey Peak Trek may be a relatively easy trek in Nepal, but proper preparation with the right gear is essential to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment—especially at high altitudes and varying weather conditions. Here’s a detailed packing list that covers everything you’ll need, from clothing to essential trekking accessories.

Clothing

Base Layers (for warmth and moisture control):

• 2–3 moisture-wicking t-shirts (quick dry)
• 1–2 thermal tops and bottoms (for cold nights)

Mid Layers (for insulation):

• 1 fleece jacket or pullover
• 1 lightweight down or insulated jacket

Outer Layers (for wind and rain protection):

• Waterproof/windproof shell jacket (with hood)
• Waterproof trekking pants or rain pants

Trekking Pants:

• 2 pairs of lightweight trekking trousers
• 1 pair of shorts (optional for warmer days)

Undergarments:

• 4–5 pairs of breathable underwear
• 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks
• 1 pair of warm woolen socks (for night)

Headwear:

• Sun hat or cap (for daytime sun protection)
• Warm beanie or woolen hat (for evenings)
• Buff or neck gaiter (useful for dust and cold)

Gloves:

• Lightweight inner gloves
• Insulated or windproof outer gloves

Footwear

• Comfortable, broken-in trekking boots (preferably waterproof)
• Lightweight camp shoes or sandals (for relaxing in teahouses)
• Optional: Gaiters (for dusty or wet trails)

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C (can be rented in Kathmandu)
• Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)

Bags

• 1 duffel bag or rucksack (carried by porter)
• 1 daypack (25–35L) for carrying personal items
• Rain cover for your backpack

Toiletries & Personal Hygiene

• Biodegradable soap and shampoo
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Quick-dry towel
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper and small garbage bags

Trekking Essentials

• Reusable water bottles (2 liters) or hydration bladder
• Water purification tablets or filtration bottle
• Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Trekking poles (recommended for support on descents)
• Quick-dry trekking towel
• Personal snacks (energy bars, trail mix, etc.)

First Aid & Medications

• Personal medications (bring enough for the entire trip)
• Basic first aid kit (band-aids, blister plasters, antiseptic cream)
• Altitude sickness prevention medicine (consult your doctor)
• Painkillers (like ibuprofen or paracetamol)
• Diarrhea medicine (e.g., Imodium)
• Electrolyte packets or rehydration salts

Documents & Money

• Passport and photocopies
• Travel insurance (covering trekking up to 4,500 m)
• Trekking permits (arranged by your tour operator)
• Passport-sized photos (for permits)
• Nepalese currency (cash for teahouses and personal expenses)

Optional Items

• Power bank or solar charger
• Book, journal, or playing cards
• Lightweight camera or GoPro
• Earplugs (for shared teahouse rooms)
• Small lock for your bag

Notes: Dress in layers to easily adapt to changing temperatures.

All essential trekking gear is available for purchase or rent in Kathmandu.

A packing light philosophy is key—porters typically carry 10–12 kg of your gear.

The Pikey Peak Trek unveils Nepal’s quieter Solu region in just nine days, blending gentle ascents with rich Sherpa culture, biodiversity, and sweeping Himalayan panoramas.

Rated easy to moderate, this route peaks at 4,065 m (13,335 ft)—high enough for jaw‑dropping mountain views yet low enough to minimize altitude‑related challenges, making it ideal for first‑time trekkers, families, and those seeking a less‑commercialized Himalayan experience.

Itinerary at a Glance

1. Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar (2,932 m)
   Begin with a scenic jeep ride through eastern Nepal’s terraced hills, passing small farming villages before reaching Dhap, the trek’s trailhead.

2. Dhap to Jhapre (2,820 m)
   Hike through pine and rhododendron forests, greeting local Sherpa communities and catching early glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

3. Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp (3,640 m)
   Gain altitude along ridgelines carpeted in wildflowers (spring) or golden grasses (autumn), with panoramic windows toward Kanchenjunga and Makalu.

4. Summit Pikey Peak (4,065 m) & Descend to Jase Bhanjyang (3,520 m)
   Rise before dawn for a spectacular sunrise atop Pikey, then walk down to the ridge village of Jase Bhanjyang.

5. Jase to Junbesi (2,700 m)
   Explore Thupten Chholing Monastery—a 1960s–era center of Tibetan Buddhist practice—and sample local tea at family‑run teahouses.

6. Junbesi to Phaplu (2,469 m)
   Descend through terraced hills, passing mani stones and prayer wheels, arriving in Phaplu—a historical trading outpost on the old salt route to Tibet.

7. Phaplu to Kathmandu
   Complete the trek with a final jeep or bus ride back to Kathmandu, reflecting on rural life in Solu and the communities you’ve met.

8. Departure
   Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home.

What You’ll Experience

Cultural Heritage & Sherpa Warmth

The Solu region has long stood on a trade corridor linking Nepal and Tibet. As you trek, you’ll see ancient mani walls (inscribed stone slabs), spinning prayer wheels, and multi‑colored prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Thupten Chholing Monastery, founded by Trulsik Rinpoche, still houses resident monks who invite visitors to join morning prayers. In teahouses, you’ll taste home‑cooked dal bhat and freshly baked Tibetan bread, enjoying genuine Sherpa hospitality.

Landscape & Biodiversity

Trails weave through rhododendron groves—Nepal’s national flower—bursting in vibrant reds and pinks come spring. Higher up, alpine meadows and juniper scrub give way to panoramic ridges where early morning light transforms the eight highest Himalayan summits into rosy gold. Birdwatchers may spot the iridescent Himalayan monal or soaring eagles, while more elusive species like musk deer and Himalayan thar occasionally reveal themselves in quiet glades.

Historical Significance

Pikey Peak served as a seasonal grazing ground for nomadic herders and a landmark for caravans transporting salt, wool, and grain between Solu and Tibet. Though today’s trek follows improved paths and teahouse stops, you’ll still sense the ancient pulse of Himalayan trade routes and the resilience of mountain communities.

Practical Considerations

• Seasons: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather and visibility. Monsoon (June–August) brings lush greenery but unpredictable rain; winter (December–February) delivers clear skies and snow‑dusted trails.

• Accommodation: Simple twin‑share rooms in family‑run teahouses, some with attached bathrooms at lower stops. Central dining halls serve communal meals and provide warmth.

• Permits: TIMS card and Gaurishankar Conservation Area permit—handled by Places Nepal's team.

• Support: Licensed guide, porter service (1 porter per two trekkers), and all ground transport included.

Why Choose the Pikey Peak Trek?

• Ease & Accessibility: Well‑graded trails, short daily hikes (4–6 hours), and easy acclimatization make it perfect for all fitness levels.

• Authentic Sherpa Culture: Fewer crowds than the Lukla‑EBC route, allowing deeper cultural immersion.

• Spectacular Vistas: 360° sunrises over Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, Dhaulagiri, and Ama Dablam.

• Community Impact: Your trekking fees support local lodges, schools, and healthcare in the Solu region.