Pikey Peak Trek

Overview

 

 

Pikey Peak Trek is a peaceful trek in the lower Everest region, best suited for trekkers who want to enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery without the crowd. The trek offers a panorama of some of the highest mountains in the world, such Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,481m). It’s not a technical or long trek, so people with average fitness can enjoy it as well. You trek along woodland trails, small Sherpa villages, and old monasteries that feel off the tourist tracks.

 

“Pikey” takes its name from a nearby Sherpa deity, and the area is sacred to many of the people who reside there. Lodgings along the trek are homestays or small guest houses. Tibetans are friendly. Tibetan prayers echo in your ears every morning, and prayer flags crackle in the breeze. In the spring, the rhododendron forests turn red and pink. Clear autumn days and mountains as far as the eye can see. Both seasons are good to take this hike.

 

Pikey Peak stands at 4,065 meters, so the sunset view from the top is something that will be etched in your memory. It’s peaceful there—quiet, with just light and wind. This is a brief walk, but it gives you a deep sense of belonging to the hills, to the locals, and the more relaxed pace of Nepalese country life. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic experience.

 

 

 

Main Attractions of Pikey Peak Trek

 

 💠  Pikey Peak Summit (4,065m)

Wide sunrise views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu. Quiet, open, and peaceful.

 

 💠  Sherpa Villages and Local Life

Stay in villages like Jhapre and Junbesi. Talk with locals, try their food, and see how mountain life flows.

 

 💠  Thupten Chholing Monastery

A quiet Buddhist monastery near Junbesi. Home to hundreds of monks and nuns. Peaceful chanting echoes through the valley.

 

 💠  Rhododendron Forests (Spring)

In March–April, the hills light up with red and pink blooms. Great time for photographers and nature lovers.

 

 💠  Less-Crowded Trail

You get the mountain views without the Everest Base Camp crowds. The path is calm and friendly.

 

 💠  Cultural Mix

Walk through areas influenced by both Sherpa and Tamang cultures. See prayer wheels, stupas, and old stone houses.

 

 💠  Clear Views in Autumn and Winter

October–December offers crystal-clear skies. Perfect for mountain photography.

 

 💠  Tibetan Buddhist Touch in Sherpa Life

Prayer flags, small stupas, and quiet monasteries appear along the trail. These reflect the deep spiritual traditions that are part of daily Sherpa life. It adds a peaceful feel to the walk.

 

 

 

ACCESSIBILITY

 

The Pikey Peak Trek is easy to reach compared to many other Himalayan treks. The highest point is 4,065 meters, but most of the walk is below 3,600 meters. It’s good for people who want mountain views without extreme altitude. There are working trails, basic lodges, and multiple starting points. You can get there by flight or road.

 

 

𖥟 By Air

The fastest way is to fly from Kathmandu to Phaplu. It takes about 25 minutes. Phaplu is close to the start of the trek. From the airport, you can start walking the same day or drive a short distance first. Flights don’t always leave on time. Bad weather delays flights, especially in winter or monsoon season. There are also helicopters that can take you directly to villages near the route, but these cost more.

 

 

𖥟 By Road

Alternatively, you can drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu. It’s 8 to 10 hours. The drive is long and winding. Sometimes it’s rough. But it’s cheaper than flight and there’s no risk of flight cancellation. Most travelers spend the night in Salleri or Phaplu before starting the trek. The road winds through farms, hills, and villages. You get to see local life on the way. This choice is better if you have the time to travel at your own leisure.

 

 

 

AMENITIES

 

Pikey Peak is a quieter trek, and the facilities are basic. Most lodges are small and run by families. You’ll find simple beds, food, and warm tea, but not much else. Electricity and phone signals are limited in some areas. You won’t find shops or banks after you leave the towns. Bring cash, snacks, water filters, and your own medicine. It’s not fancy, but the mountain views and peaceful trails make the experience worth it.

 

 

✻ Accommodation and Meals

You’ll stay in teahouses along the trail. Accommodation is basic, and there are wooden beds and blankets. Some have shared toilets and cold showers. Some offer hot showers for a low cost. Food is plain but nutritious. All offer dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, soup, potatoes, and tea. There will not be much choice, especially in remote locations. Take your own snacks like nuts or biscuits. Drinking water will be offered, but it will need treatment or filtration.

 

 

✻ Electricity and Charging Facilities

There is electricity in some villages, usually from solar panels. You can charge your phone in the dining area, but it may cost extra. Power isn’t always reliable. It’s smart to carry a power bank. Don’t rely on finding charging points every day. Keep your phone in airplane mode to save battery.

 

 

✻ Internet and Mobile Connectivity

Mobile signal is weak or missing on most of the trek. NTC may work in some lower villages like Jhapre or Salleri. Don’t expect to be online during the trek. Some lodges might say they have Wi-Fi, but it’s slow or not working. Let people know in advance that you’ll be out of contact.

 

✻ Health and Medical Facilities

There are no clinics along the trail. There is only basic assistance available, such as bandages or painkillers. Take your own first-aid kit with medication for colds, fever, stomach ailments, and altitude sickness. The nearest hospital is in Phaplu or Kathmandu. Take travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue in case of need.

 

 

 

Inclusion and Exclusion

 

Inclusions & Services Provided

☑       Full-Board Meals – Enjoy wholesome and energy-dense meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) daily, specially designed for high-altitude trekking.

☑       Daily Beverages – Stay hydrated with four rounds of tea or coffee daily, including morning, mid-day, afternoon (with light snacks), and evening.

☑       Evening Treats – Fresh seasonal fruits served post-dinner for a healthy and satisfying end to your meals.

☑       Comfortable Accommodation – Stay in comfortable, well-maintained teahouses along the trail, offering warmth, hospitality, and stunning mountain views.

☑       Professional Trekking Support – Hike with a licensed, insured, and experienced guide, along with porter support (1 porter between 2 trekkers) for a seamless and enjoyable trek.

☑       Effortless Transfers & Permits – Private vehicle transfers and all trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Rural Municipality) arranged for your convenience.

☑       Safety & Health Monitoring – Daily oxygen level and heart rate monitoring, first-aid kit, and helicopter arrangement in an emergency (insurance paid) for your safety.

☑       All-Inclusive Pricing – Govt. taxes, service charges, and an assistant guide for a group of 5+ trekkers for a hassle-free experience.

☑       Lifetime Deposit Policy: Secure your spot with a lifetime deposit, allowing you to postpone or reschedule your trek without losing your booking deposit

☑       Free Booking: Secure your trek without any initial payment, allowing you to organize and finalize your trip at your convenience—no risk, no pressure.

 

 

 

Exclusions: What’s Not Included

☒       Pre-Trek Arrangements – Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek are not included.

☒       Visa & Entry Fees – Nepal entry visa fees must be arranged separately ($50 for a 30-day visa, payable on arrival).

☒       Insurance – Travel, trekking, and medical insurance are mandatory for safety and emergency evacuation coverage.

☒       Travel Costs – International airfare to and from Nepal is not included in the package.

☒       Beverages & Personal Expenses – Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and other personal expenses are at the trekker’s discretion.

☒       Teahouse Amenities – Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging at teahouses are available at an extra cost.

☒       Gratuities – Tips for guides, porters, and drivers are not included but are customary and highly appreciated.

We cover all the essential aspects of your trek so you can focus entirely on the adventure. These exclusions ensure transparency, allowing you to plan accordingly for a smooth and well-prepared experience in the Himalayas.

 

 

 

PERMITS AND REGULATION

 

✔  Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP)

 

Cost

 ⟡  Foreigners

🔸  NPR 3,000 ($8)

 

⟡  Nepali Citizens

🔸  NPR 100

 

Issued by

🔸  Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)

 

 

✔  Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

 

⟡  For individual trekkers (FITs)

NPR 2,000 (~$15)

 

⟡   For group trekkers (via agency)

NPR 1,000 (~$8)

 

⟡   Issued by

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN)

 

 

Where to Get the Permits?

 

Kathmandu:
🔸   Nepal Tourism Board Office
🔸   TAAN Office

 

Salleri (for local entry):
🔸   District Forest Office or local checkpoints

 

Via Trekking Agencies:
🔸   Agencies can arrange all permits before your trek begins

 

 

Documents Required

🔸   A copy of your passport

🔸   Two passport-sized photos

🔸   Trekking itinerary

These permits are mandatory. You must carry them at all times while trekking. Authorities may check them at entry points or along the trail.

 

 

 

Essential Advice for Trekkers

 

⦿ Acclimatize Properly

Ensure you take time to acclimatize to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness. Stick to the principle of “climb high, sleep low.”

 

⦿ Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the trek. Dehydration can significantly affect your performance and overall well-being at high altitudes.

 

⦿ Pack Light, But Smart

Only carry the essentials. Prioritize warm clothing, a reliable pair of hiking boots, and a good-quality sleeping bag for higher altitudes.

 

⦿ Physical Preparation       

Focus on cardiovascular and strength training exercises to build stamina. Practice hiking with a backpack to simulate trek conditions.

 

⦿ Mind Your Footwear

Invest in high-quality, comfortable hiking boots. Well-fitted boots are essential for tackling the rugged terrain.

 

⦿ Embrace Local Culture

Respect local traditions and customs. Positively engage with the local community and learn about their culture for a richer experience.

 

⦿ Be Prepared for the Weather

Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Always bring layered clothing and be prepared for sudden temperature changes.

 

⦿ Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Help preserve the environment by minimizing your impact on nature. Respect wildlife and dispose of trash responsibly.

 

⦿ Listen to Your Body

If you feel unwell or fatigued, don’t push yourself. Rest and adjust your schedule if necessary. Remember, safety comes first.

 

⦿ Travel with a Licensed Guide

For safety and smoother navigation, hire an experienced, licensed trekking guide who knows the route and the terrain well.

 

 

 

Why Himalayan Explore Line?

 

🔶 Safety & Expert Guidance

Led by government-licensed guides with first-aid and crisis-management expertise.

Daily oxygen-level and altitude safety health check-ups.

Emergency response and evacuation protocols always ready.

 

🔶 Smooth Logistics

Essential permits and private transfers arranged in advance.

Pre-booked lodges/teahouses with verified hygiene and comfort.

Gear rentals and porter services streamlined for convenience.

 

🔶 Cultural & Scenic Sophistication

Immerse in Himalayan villages, ancient monasteries, and local traditions.

Trails showcasing iconic peaks, pristine valleys, and biodiverse forests.

Cultural interactions, from tea ceremonies to folklore storytelling.

 

🔶 Luxury Nutrition

Energy-providing nutritious meals at high altitudes.

Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-free meal choices.

Tea/coffee break daily with local sweets.

 

🔶 Clear Pricing

Unambiguous packages without additional charges.

Ethical operation: fair labor practices, sustainable operations.

Inquiries and modifications available 24/7.

 

 

Our Commitment

We deliver secure, culturally enhancing Himalayan journeys with meticulous logistics, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience.

 

 

 

Terms and Condition

 

Reservation and Payment

To confirm your booking, a 30% non-refundable deposit is required. The remaining balance can be paid before your trip. We recommend confirming your reservation before arriving in Nepal to help us plan your journey smoothly.

Payments can be made via digital wallet, credit card, or bank transfer (processing fees may apply). A 4% surcharge applies to all card payments, including deposits and other transactions. Bookings are only confirmed once you receive a Client Confirmation Letter from us. To receive this, you must complete the booking form with accurate details such as your name, contact info, and travel dates.

 

 

Policy on Cancellations and Refunds 

 

By Client:

• More than 2 months before departure: 80% refund

• 2 months to 29 days before: 70% refund

• Less than 15 days before: 50% refund

• Less than 7 days before: 50% credited toward a future trip (non-refundable if unused)

We strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance at booking. No refunds will be issued if you cancel after the trip has started, including for unused services like accommodation, transport, meals, or activities.

 

 

By Company:

If Himalayan Explore Line must cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances—such as natural disasters, flight cancellations, strikes, civil unrest, illness, quarantine, government restrictions, or severe weather—you will be offered an alternative trip of equal value and features, agreed upon mutually.

Please note that major changes do not include adjustments to airline carriers, flight schedules, or itineraries, provided the departure and return dates remain unchanged. Similarly, changes to hotel accommodations are not considered major as long as they are within the same category.

 

 

Itinerary Changes:

Weather in high-altitude areas is unpredictable, and domestic flight delays at the start or end of the trip may lead to itinerary changes. Flexibility is essential, as local conditions can affect plans, accommodations, or transport on short notice.

Clients are responsible for any extra costs caused by delays, natural disasters, or if alternative arrangements (e.g., helicopter flights) are chosen. These changes are binding, and any additional expenses beyond our control will be the client’s responsibility.

 

 

Insurance:

Himalayan Explore Line does not provide travel insurance. Clients must secure insurance covering high-altitude emergencies, medical costs (including pre-existing conditions), repatriation, trip delays, cancellations, and personal liability. Proof of insurance is mandatory. The company reserves the right to cancel your participation without a refund if valid insurance cannot be provided upon request.

 

 

Acceptance of Terms:

By booking with Himalayan Explore Line, you agree to the terms and conditions, including any updates. It is your responsibility to stay informed and comply with any changes.