⇀ Starts: [3:00 AM – Day 1]

 📍 Pick-up Point: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

↼ Ends: [7:00–8:00 PM – Day 6]

 📍 Drop-off: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

We recommend arriving in Kathmandu at least a day before your trek begins. This gives you time to meet your guide and join our pre-trek briefing — either online or in person at our office in Thamel.

Getting to the Trailhead

Your journey to the Pikey Peak trail begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar (2,850m) via the BP and Pushpalal Highways. The scenic 8–9 hour ride takes you through lush hills and mountain villages. From Dhap, the trek kicks off with a gentle 3-hour walk to Jhapre the same afternoon.

At the end of your trek, after reaching Salleri (2,360m), you'll return to Kathmandu by shared jeep or local bus — a 9–10 hour drive. We’ll drop you directly at your hotel.

What’s Included

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
• All ground transport to and from the trail
• Pre-trek briefing (video call or office visit)
• Optional airport transfers
• Full travel coordination by our team

Prefer Private Travel?

Want more comfort? Upgrade to a private 4WD vehicle for a smoother ride on both travel days. Just let us know in advance.

Airport Transfers

We also offer private airport pick-ups and drop-offs, so you can skip the taxi lines and start (or end) your trip stress-free.

All your transport is handled — you just focus on the hike.

Food During the Short Pikey Peak Trek

All your breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included in the 6-day Pikey Peak Trek package—from the moment your journey begins in Kathmandu to the final night. As the drive starts early, around 3:00 AM on Day 1, there will be some stops en route for breakfast and Lunch at a highway restaurant before reaching Dhap Bazaar.

Once on the trail, meals follow a standard mountain schedule:

• Breakfast: Around 7:00 AM, before starting the day’s trek
• Lunch: Between 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at a trail-side village or teahouse
• Dinner: Around 6:00–7:00 PM after reaching your overnight stop

The meals served are simple, fresh, and energy-rich—perfect for trekking in higher altitudes. At lower elevations like Dhap and Jhapre (2,850–2,920m), you can enjoy traditional Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, curry, and greens), Tibetan bread with jam or honey, noodles, fried rice, and mo:mo (Nepali dumplings). The teahouses here often offer tea varieties like milk tea, black tea, and sometimes locally brewed herbal teas.

As you gain altitude toward Pikey Base Camp (3,640m), the menu becomes more limited but still hearty. Here, potato-based dishes become the star—boiled or fried potatoes with vegetables, aloo tarkari (potato curry), and Riki Kur, a local Sherpa-style mashed potato cake often served with yak butter or chili. These foods are not only filling but also grown locally, making them fresh and sustainable.

After completing your summit and descending into Junbesi and Salleri, the food variety expands again. You can find pancakes, omelets, thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and even seasonal vegetables depending on the time of year. Beverages like hot lemon, ginger tea, and instant coffee are available at most stops.

Note: Any extra snacks, desserts, bottled drinks, alcoholic beverages, or non-included items are at your own expense. We recommend bringing your favorite energy bars or trail mix for between-meal energy.

Accommodation During the Pikey Peak Trek

Accommodation throughout the Pikey Peak Trek is arranged in locally run teahouses and homestays, all of which are included in your trek package. These lodgings are simple yet warm and welcoming, providing a clean bed, shared or private rooms (depending on availability), and traditional Sherpa hospitality.

At lower elevations like Dhap and Jhapre, many teahouses offer private twin rooms with basic bedding, blankets, and a shared bathroom. Some may have attached bathrooms at extra cost. Facilities generally include:

• Cozy dining hall with wood-fire heating
• Thick blankets and foam mattresses
• Shared squat or western-style toilets
• Solar-heated showers (sometimes extra charge)
• Charging points (available for a small fee)

At higher elevations such as Pikey Base Camp, expect more basic teahouses or seasonal lodges with dorm-style rooms. While the comfort level drops slightly due to remoteness, the warmth of the locals and the natural setting more than make up for it.

Once you descend to Junbesi and Salleri, the homestays and lodges become more comfortable again, sometimes offering Wi-Fi, hot showers, and better food variety. These Sherpa homes also provide a more personal touch—perfect for immersing yourself in the region’s culture and traditions.

Want to upgrade your stay? We can arrange private rooms with attached bathrooms (subject to availability) or lodge upgrades in select locations. Just let us know while booking!

The Pikey Peak Trek is rated as Easy Trek

The Pikey Peak Trek is considered one of the easiest short treks in Nepal, ideal for first-time trekkers, families, solo hikers, and anyone seeking a rewarding Himalayan experience without high-altitude strain. With a maximum elevation of 4,065 meters at Pikey Peak, the trek involves gradual ascents and descents on well-established trails with no technical climbing or dangerous sections.

Each day involves 4 to 6 hours of walking, mostly through gentle forest paths, village trails, and open ridgelines. Acclimatization is naturally built into the itinerary with moderate elevation gains and plenty of rest time. Because this trek stays below the risk zone for altitude sickness, it’s a safe choice even for those new to trekking in Nepal.

Despite its ease, Pikey Peak offers incredible mountain views, cultural immersion in Sherpa villages, and peaceful off-the-beaten-path routes—making it an excellent low-risk, high-reward adventure in the Everest region.

Pikey Peak Trek Weather Overview

The Pikey Peak Trek offers a unique blend of hill and alpine climates due to its elevation range between 2,300 meters to 4,065 meters. Weather conditions change gradually as you ascend, but the trail remains manageable year-round except during the monsoon.

At lower altitudes like Dhap, Jhapre, and Junbesi (2,300m–2,900m), temperatures are mild during the day (10°C to 20°C) and cooler at night. These areas receive occasional rainfall in the summer and light frost during winter. As you reach Pikey Base Camp (3,640m) and the summit (4,065m), expect colder temperatures, especially during sunrise hikes. Night temperatures can drop below -5°C, and winds can be strong along open ridgelines.

The region’s weather is generally stable in spring and autumn, offering clear skies and minimal precipitation—ideal for panoramic Himalayan views from Pikey Peak.

Best Time to Do the Pikey Peak Trek

Choosing the right trekking season is key to experiencing the best of Pikey Peak—whether you're after mountain views, wildflowers, or quiet trails.

Autumn (September to November) – Peak Trekking Season

• Clear blue skies and dry weather make it the best time for mountain views.
• Crystal-clear visibility of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Dhaulagiri, and Makalu from Pikey Peak.
• Daytime temperatures are pleasant; mornings and nights are chilly but manageable.

Spring (March to May) – Rhododendron Bloom & Green Trails

• Forests explode in color with blooming rhododendrons and wildflowers.
• Stable weather and warm trekking conditions, ideal for nature lovers.
• Excellent Himalayan visibility and lush green valleys.

Winter (December to February) – Quiet & Peaceful, But Cold

• Less crowded trails and pristine snowy landscapes.
• Cold mornings and freezing nights, especially above 3,500m.
• Requires warm gear, but the views are still stunning and skies mostly clear.

Monsoon (June to August) – Not Ideal for Trekking

• Frequent rain, slippery trails, and leeches in the forested sections.
• Cloud-covered skies reduce visibility of mountains.
• High chance of travel delays due to road conditions.

Recommended:

Trek during late September to early December or mid-March to late May for the best combination of weather, scenery, and trail conditions. Avoid monsoon season unless you're an experienced off-season trekker.

Insider Tip:

If you plan your trek during the new moon, you’ll witness brilliant night skies from Pikey Base Camp—ideal for stargazing and astrophotography thanks to the area's low light pollution.

How to Get Fit for the Pikey Peak Trek

The Pikey Peak Trek is a short and relatively easy adventure, but basic fitness still plays a key role in enjoying the journey. To prepare, begin light cardio exercises like walking, jogging, cycling, or hiking at least 3 to 4 weeks before the trek. Focus on building endurance and leg strength, as daily trekking involves 4–6 hours of walking on hilly terrain. Stair climbing, squats, and light backpack training can help simulate the trail conditions and reduce muscle fatigue on the trek.

No advanced training or mountaineering skills are needed, but consistency is key. If you have access to nature trails or uneven paths, try short hikes with a daypack to get used to carrying weight. Staying hydrated, stretching regularly, and maintaining a healthy diet will also boost your stamina. Even if you're a beginner, with a little preparation and the right mindset, you’ll be more than ready to take on Pikey Peak with confidence.

Short Pikey Peak Trek Overview

The Short Pikey Peak Trek is one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets—offering epic Everest views, Sherpa culture, and peaceful trails, all within a compact 6-day itinerary. Reaching a maximum altitude of 4,065 meters at Pikey Peak, this trek is perfect for travelers seeking big Himalayan rewards without the crowds or extreme elevations. The journey takes you through serene forested hills, yak pastures, and spiritual Sherpa villages, with panoramic views of Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Dhaulagiri, and even Annapurna on clear days.

This trek is ideal for both first-time trekkers and returning adventurers looking for a fresh, off-the-beaten-path experience. Starting with an overland drive from Kathmandu to Dhap, and ending in the vibrant hill town of Salleri, the route flows smoothly through well-maintained village trails and peaceful mountain ridges. The sunrise from Pikey Peak is often described as one of the most beautiful in Nepal—making this short journey truly unforgettable.

Route & Altitude Description

The trek begins with a scenic jeep ride from Kathmandu (1,350m) to Dhap Bazaar (2,850m), followed by a short hike to Jhapre (2,920m). From here, you ascend gradually through pine forests and yak pastures to Pikey Peak Base Camp (3,640m). The early morning hike to Pikey Peak (4,065m) is the high point—both in altitude and experience. After soaking in breathtaking Himalayan views, you descend to Junbesi (2,700m) and end the trek in Salleri (2,360m) before driving back to Kathmandu.

This well-balanced route ensures proper acclimatization while keeping daily walks between 4–6 hours. The trails are mostly gradual with occasional steeper sections near the base camp and summit. No technical skills are required, and the trek remains below the high-risk altitude zone, making it safer and more comfortable for all ages. Despite its ease, the landscapes transition beautifully from terraced farmland to alpine meadows, offering a true Himalayan trekking experience in just under a week.

Key Destinations & Cultural Highlights

Each village along the trail offers its own flavor of Sherpa life and Buddhist tradition. Jhapre, a quiet ridge-top village, features a charming monastery and sweeping views toward Everest. Pikey Peak Base Camp lies beneath a windswept ridge adorned with prayer flags, leading to the summit viewpoint famous for its sunrise spectacle. From here, you’ll see more than eight of Nepal’s highest peaks lined up along the horizon.

Junbesi, one of the oldest Sherpa villages in Solu, is a cultural gem with whitewashed homes, chortens, and stone-paved paths. Just above it lies Thupten Chholing Monastery, home to hundreds of monks and nuns in spiritual retreat. This region is deeply spiritual yet welcoming, where visitors are often invited to spin prayer wheels, share tea, or simply observe local rituals and daily life.

People, Cultures & Mountain Life

The Pikey region is primarily inhabited by the Sherpa people, known for their mountaineering legacy, warm hospitality, and deep-rooted Buddhist beliefs. Here, culture is woven into every corner—from prayer flags fluttering on hilltops to spinning mani wheels at every village stupa. Locals speak Sherpa, Nepali, and often basic English, especially in teahouses along the trail.

Daily life in the mountains revolves around yak herding, farming, and monastery rituals. You'll often see locals carrying firewood, herding animals, or praying in small gompas. Unlike the commercial trails of Everest, the people here still live traditionally. This trek offers a real glimpse into rural Himalayan life—authentic, unhurried, and beautifully resilient.

History of the Places and People

Junbesi and its surrounding villages played a significant role in the early development of the Everest trekking route. Before Lukla Airport became common, this lower Solu region was the original path trekkers and climbers took to reach Everest Base Camp. Sir Edmund Hillary’s Himalayan Trust also helped build schools and clinics in this region, some of which are still in operation today.

The nearby Thupten Chholing Monastery, founded in the 1960s by Trulsik Rinpoche, is a revered center for Tibetan Buddhism. Pilgrims and monks from across Nepal and Tibet come here for long-term retreat. The presence of this spiritual institution continues to shape the culture of Junbesi and the entire Solu region, creating a unique mix of trekking adventure and sacred heritage.

Safety Guidelines

The Pikey Peak Trek is a low-risk trek in terms of altitude, but basic safety precautions are still essential. Since the highest point is 4,065 meters, altitude sickness is rare but possible. Trekkers should stay well-hydrated, avoid alcohol, and ascend gradually. The itinerary is designed with gentle elevation gain, helping your body adjust naturally.

Trails are well-marked and safe, though trekking with a licensed guide is always recommended for navigation, support, and emergencies. Weather can change quickly above 3,000 meters, so carrying proper rain gear and warm layers is important. Our team provides a pre-trek briefing, 24/7 emergency support, and assistance with any unforeseen issues on the trail.

Permits & Entry Regulations

To trek in the Pikey Peak region, you’ll need the following permits:

• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
• Local Area Permit (Solu Khumbu Entrance Fee)

Our team at Places Nepal handles all permit arrangements in advance. Just bring your valid passport, visa, and 2 passport-sized photos, and we’ll take care of the paperwork. These permits help support conservation, local infrastructure, and trail maintenance in the region.

There are no restricted zone permits required, and you do not need a special guide or group to access the area. This makes Pikey Peak an excellent choice for independent-minded travelers who still want a guided, safe, and legal trekking experience.

Why Choose This Trek with Places Nepal

At Places Nepal, we’re not just guiding a trek—we’re sharing the trail as locals. Our guides are born in the region, trained professionally, and committed to your safety and satisfaction. Whether you're summiting Pikey Peak at dawn or sipping yak butter tea in Junbesi, we make sure your experience is authentic, seamless, and personal.

We offer full logistics, expert planning, and flexible options—from private vehicles to customized pacing. With us, you get more than a trip: you get trusted local insight, responsible travel practices, and genuine connections along the way. Join us for the Short Pikey Peak Trek, and discover the magic of Nepal far beyond the beaten path.