About the Pikey Peak Trek
The Pikey Peak Trek is in the Lower Everest region of Nepal and has several trails linking to it. The trek is known for having spectacular 360-degree views that show both the Everest Mountain Range and the Annapurna Mountain Range while still being a low-altitude trek. A unique view anywhere in the world!
There are several routes to Pikey Peak, depending on your needs. The "Classic Everest Base Camp" route from Jiri is the longest but also the most fulfilling. The shorter route from Dhap can also be extended. Both routes are accessible by road, so there is no need for a flight.
The top of Pikey Peak looking at Mount Everest
Trek Overview
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate |
Days: 9/6 |
Max Altitude: 4, 068m (13,346 ft) |
Distance: 84.4 km (142.2 mi) +/- |
Accommodation: Teahouse |
Contents
Where is the Pikey Peak Trek?
The Pikey Peak Trek is located in the Lower Solukhumbu region of Nepal. "Lower Khumbu" is south of Sagarmatha National Park which is home to Mount Everest.
If you look at a map, Pikey Peak is south of the famous starting point of the EBC trek, Lukla. However, few people start from Lukla, most start either from Jiri to the west or Dhap, a little further south.
It is the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek that claims most of the recognition in this area. It was the starting point of the main Everest summit expeditions before Lukla airport was built. The Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek is used these days mainly be trekkers wanting to avoid flights or have an extended trek.
Originally the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek bypassed Pikey Peak. However, in recent years due to a road connecting Jiri to Shivalaya which shortened the trek, Pikey Peak has been added on due to its stunning views. In turn, Pikey Peak became a trek in its own right.
For those planning a Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek, it would be highly advisable to add in Pikey Peak. Similarly, for those wanting a great view of Everest plus the Everest Mountain Range plus the Annapurna Range, Pikey Peak is a great trek in its own right. With its relatively low altitude and ease, it's tipped to become one of the most popular treks in the near future.
Map of the Pikey Peak Trek
This map shows you the Pikey Peak Trek starting from Jiri and ending at Phalpu.
Please note this map should not be used as a practical trekking map.
The above map should give you a clear indication of the different trekking routes for Pikey Peak. Going from Lukla to Pikey Peak is not practical. The Jiri route shown is the best in terms of views, and trekking experience. Shorter routes from Dhap are in the itinerary section. Similarly instead of finishing in Phaplu, trekkers leave from Junbesi due north to Lukla for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Facts about the Pikey Peak Trek
The Pikey Peak trek is a great low/medium altitude trek for those looking for great Everest Views and fantastic panorama views of both the Everest and Annapurna mountain ranges.
Highest point on the Gokyo Ri Trek
At 4,068 m (13,346.46 ft) this is the highest point on the Pikey Peak trek. However, what you will rarely read is that there are actually two Pikey Peaks beside each other. At 4,064 m (13,336 ft) the second peak is slightly shorter, but the views are the same!
Sunrise at Nagaor Gumba
Highest sleeping point on the Pikey Peak Trek
The highest sleeping point on the Pikey Peak Trek is at Pikey Peak Base Camp which is 3,640 m (11,942 ft).
Total distance of the Pikey Peak Trek
The full distance of the Pikey Peak Trek is 84.4 km (142.2 mi) starting in Jiri and finishing at Phaplu.
How long have people been trekking to Pikey Peak?
Little is known about when Pikey Peak became a trekking route. The teahouses in the area are all relatively new. Sir Edmund Hillary seemed to have bypassed the peak during the early Everest Summits, however he did return to Pikey Peak, declaring it the best view of Everest.
British surveyors in the 19th century began mapping the world's highest mountains
and could well have come across Pikey Peak.
For
trekkers, Pikey Peak only became popular in recent years
as more people sought out "easier" places to view
Everest from. As the road from Jiri to Shivalaya
was completed adding Pikey Peak to the classic Everest
trek has become increasingly popular. However, Pikey
Peak remains a trek itself as its is one of the few with
views of both the Everest and Annapurna Mountain ranges.
Is there any wildlife to see on the Pikey Peak Trek?
Being a low altitude Pikey Peak is not known for much wildlife. Domestic animals are plentiful in this area. More realistically Himalayan Thar, yaks kestrels, and the odd mammal are certainly plentiful on this trek.
What do you know about the history of Pikey peak?
Pikey Peak did not have any major settlements around it other than agriculture. Junbesi was the closest major village. Pikey Peak was mapped by cartographers but never entered the public mind set as a tourist attraction or trekking destination until Edmund Hillary mentioned it on a trek in the region.
Who is the most famous person to have hiked Pikey Peak?
Sir Edmund Hillary is the most famous person to have hiked Pikey Peak. It was one of his favourite view points when planning his 1953 summit of Mount Everest. He used Pikey Peak to work out the best options for approaching Mount Everest.
What is the best way to explore Pikey peak?
Pikey Peak can be explored by taking a trek starting from Jiri/Shivalaya or Dhap with treks lasting from 9 days to 4 days respectively.
What mountains can you see on the Pikey Peak Trek?
The Pikey Peak trek is unique in that you can see all of the Annapurna and Everest Mountain ranges. These include Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Manaslu, Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, Kangchenjung, Mount Numbur, and Mount Karyolung.
Highlights of the Pikey Peak Trek
Highlights of the Pikey Peak Trek include:
- Great views of the Everest & Annapurna mountain ranges
- Local teahouses
- Rural farmlands & forests
- Few trekkers or groups
- Ability to extend the trek
How to arrange a Pikey Peak Trek
Is arranging a Pikey Peak Trek easy?
It's largely expected that
Pikey Peak will become the "Poon Hill" of the Everest
Region in the near future. In the meantime, trekking
agents are spewing out a lot of "information". Most will
not even tell you there are actually two peaks at "Pikey
Peak," so watch out for these types. Similarly, many are
pricing treks on transport and not so much on actual
days on the trails.
Arranging a Pikey Peak Trek
A Pikey Peak Trek is
relatively easy to arrange, so long as you understand
routes. If you don't understand the routes, trekking
agents will take advantage of you. Reading this page
will put you ahead of many. The biggest obstacle will be
trekking agencies trying to sell you a short Pikey Peak
Trek. In truth, the short one is only about 2 days
shorter than the "long trek," which will be far more
enjoyable.
If you know how many days
you have for trekking, then you will know which route to
take for Pikey Peak. It's a relatively low-altitude trek
with plenty of transport options, so try to remain in
control when arranging a trek. It's Jiri/Shivalaya to
start, or Dhap, or Salleri, and any combination to
finish. Shared Jeeps go to these locations along with
public buses (just about). So watch out for expensive
"private" jeeps being added on.
Trekking companies often try to promote the short Pikey
Peak route which means spending more money in a
car rather than trekking. It's profitable for the
trekking companies, but it's not such a great trekking
experience. Take the longer route and enjoy a trek!
Finally, once again, I
encourage you to read this page carefully and understand
exactly what the Pikey Peak Trek is all about. You'll be
surprised at how many people don't spend 30 minutes
researching treks these days and end up being at the
mercy of trekking agents trying to make the most cash
out of them. Go prepared!
Package treks & tours for the Pikey Peak Trek bought online
Package treks & tours to Pikey Peak are available online. They are usually fairly fixed and standard. They often try to bundle you with other groups for this trek to save on road transport. Solo trekkers often have to pay extra single allowances. Sharing rooms is common and menus are often fixed. Itineraries are often fixed. Beware of many package treks which delay days in and around Pikey Peak.
Package tours on the Pikey Peak trek online prices range from USD $750-1000 per person. They usually include all permits, a guide, transport, accommodation, and meals.
Pro's of a package trek on the Pikey Peak Trek includes having everything ready for you when you arrive.
Con's include porters being extra, inflexible itineraries, hidden extras, being last minute bundled with a group, unsure shared accommodation, and fixed meals.
Package treks bought in Nepal for the Pikey Peak Trek
Again, it's important to do research on the Pikey Peak Trek before going out and pricing it in person. Do read the itineraries carefully.
As always use the information on this page to work out the costs and days needed!
Pro's of a local Pikey Trek include meeting your guide before leaving. Being able to go over the costs with the trekking company and adjusting your itinerary.
Con's include being overwhelmed with names of places and different routes on the Pikey Peak trek. Being pressured to make a decision on the spot. The time needed in the country.
If you'd like to take the hard work out of finding a guide or package trek with experienced guides for the Pikey Peak trek before you arrive then do try my Find a Trekking Guide Service.
Hiring a local Guide for the Pikey Peak Trek
Despite being advertised "everywhere" Pikey Peak is not that well known yet. The area is however accessible and relatively low in altitude. Spending a little more on a guide with experience will benefit you in areas with fewer teahouses on this trek - the guide will know the owners personally.
Trekking companies in Kathmandu will be better than other regions of Nepal to find a guide for the Pikey Peak Trek. You should hire a guide directly from a trekking company as they need to be registered to be official. Avoid street guides!
Pro's of hiring a local guide alone include meeting your guide before leaving. Paying for the guide by the day (though you will need to set a minimum number of days). More independence.
Con's include having to make sure the guide is licensed. Carrying cash in the mountains yourself to pay for accommodation, meals etc.
If you are looking for a local registered trekking guide for the Pikey Peak Trek I recommend you read my article on How to find a trekking guide in Nepal.
In my guidebook to Nepal there are several well-vetted trekking agencies you can choose from that hire out local guides.
You can also save some time by using my Find a Guide Trekking Service to get a local guide.
Trekking Pikey Peak without a guide
There are two important points to think over before starting this trek without a guide. The first is that Nepal Tourisim Board banned solo trekking. This region is being contested and a checkpoint may appear here. The second thing to think about is that a lot of this trail is not well marked and in places one can easily get lost.The starting points on this trek are well known and are accessible by road. This is the easy bit for solo trekkers. If starting from Jiri/Shivalaya you will find the trail well marked. However once you hit Bhandar and go south the signage becomes unclear. This is where Pikey Peak becomes a "new trail".
Experienced trekkers with prior trekking experience in Nepal should be able to managed this trek without much of an issue. If you are a first time trekker, my advice is to take a guide. Accommodation is literally just one or two teahouses in some of the villages near Pikey Peak. It is by no means a well trekked trail. Always ask yourself what will I do if I accidentally, twist or break my ankle on this relatively quiet trail? How will you manage?
If you are looking for a guide for the Pikey Peak Trek I recommend you read my article on How to find a trekking guide in Nepal.
You may also use my Find a Guide Trekking Service.
Best time of the year to trek the Pikey Peak Trek
Attention should be given to the wide weather conditions both in the Solukhumbu area and Annapurna area which can affect views from Pikey Peak. If you are going for 360 degrees then peak season is best. If just Everest views then both the first peak season and main season are best.
In terms of trekking conditions monsoon weather will make Pikey Peak more difficult as the trails can be slippery. In the winter snow can occur on Pikey Peak itself.
Treating Pikey Peak as a trek for the peak seasons is a good idea all around. Taking the slightly longer version of the trek from Jiri/Shivalaya will ensure more chances of seeing mountains along the way.
If seeing "Everest" is your goal, then try to give yourself extra days as clouds move in over Mount Everest regularly, a sunset on Pikey Peak, plus a sunrise at minimum.
Temperature and precipitation table for Pikey Peak (Gorak Shep)
| Avg. Temperature (°C) | Avg. Temperature (°F) | Precipitation / Rainfall (mm) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -10.9 | 12.4 | 7 |
| February | -10.1 | 13.8 | 5 |
| March | -6.8 | 19.8 | 8 |
| April | -3 | 26.6 | 9 |
| May | 0.6 | 33.1 | 9 |
| June | 4.5 | 40.1 | 37 |
| July | 5.3 | 41.5 | 103 |
| August | 4.8 | 40.6 | 116 |
| September | 3 | 37.4 | 45 |
| October | -1.8 | 28.8 | 21 |
| November | -6.6 | 20.1 | 1 |
| December | -8.9 | 16.0 | 3 |
The above weather chart will let you see the weather conditions from Pikey Peak looking at Everest Base Camp. You'll get a better idea of what to expect this way. In terms of weather conditions on Pikey Peak, expect less harsh conditions.
Temperature Chart for the Pikey Peak Trek
The above temperature chart shows the approximate highs and lows on the Pikey Peak Trek year-round based on conditions. There is no weather station on Pikey Peak, so taking into account the location, Gorak Shep is the closest for an accurate reading. Do note it does not take into account wind chill which can drive the above temperatures down -10 especially in the winter season.
Months with the best weather to trek the Gokyo Ri Trek
Due to the low-altitude, and terrain of the Pikey Peak Trek, it's important to consider the right time of year to trek in the region for views. Monsoon season is not recommended at all due to extensive cloud cover in the region.Mid October - November/(early)December: Nepal's peak and best time to go trekking to Pikey Peak.
February-March-April: this is the end of the dry season in Nepal and the second-best time of year to go trekking to Pikey Peak. Having an extra day in reserve helps with any cloud coverage for those great 360 degree views.
December to January/February: the skies are clear but the weather is cold! Snow is likely on Pikey Peak and the surrounding area making the less used trails difficult to navigate. Taking a guide at this time of year is highly advisable.
May - June: The hot pre-monsoon season means things get uncomfortable and humid at lower altitudes on this trek. Cloud cover is an issue to view the Annapurna's and Everest regions.
June - Mid September: this is Nepal's Monsoon season. The risk of leeches and heavy rain increases at lower altitudes. Pikey Peak's lesser known trails from Bhandar will be slippery. Cloud cover will be an issue.
For more details please see my guide on the best time of year to go trekking in Nepal.
What permits do I need for the Pikey Peak Trek?
If starting from Jiri then only one permit is needed for the Pikey Peak Trek - though do note that the TIMS card might be needed in the future.
- Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GSCAP)
Additional: Trekker Information Management System (TIMS Card) - Not currently required.
The Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GSCAP) can easily be purchased in Kathmandu at the Tourist Information Center for 3,000 rupees. Or at Shivalaya. The permit offices open between 10 am - 5 pm. Do keep in mind national holidays and festivals in Nepal as the offices often close early then.
The Solukhumbu Regional Permit is not needed unless continuing on to Lukla. Likewise the Sagamartha National Park Permit is not needed.
Get a receipt for your permit. Keep it and all your permits safe.
How to get a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit
If you are trekking with a guide then they will most likely get your Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit for you as part of their role as a guide. Good guides and trekking companies will even get them ahead of your arrival in Nepal. However keep this in mind if you are paying a guide daily.Independent trekkers can get their Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit at the Tourism Office in Kathmandu. There is another permit office at Shivalaya.
- Fill out the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit form
- Hand over the completed form, your passport, and 2 passport photos
- Pay the 3,000 rupees (only payable in Nepali Rupees) - there is no tax added.
- Get your permit
No more TIMS Cards needed
Once the Solukhumbu region started issuing their own permits in 2017 they stated there was no need for a TIMS card. However, Pikey Peak falls outside their main permit collection area which starts in Lukla.As such, since of 2020, TIMS cards are still no longer necessary for the Pikey Peak trek. The Solukhumbu permit or something like it might appear in the future. But for now, there are no more TIMS or other permits needed.
Here's a fully up to date list of National Park entry permits and TIMS fees for trekking in Nepal.
What
equipment do I need to go on the
Pikey Peak Trek?
Specialized equipment is not needed for the Pikey Peak trek however weather gear and the time of year should be taken into account.
- A good pair of trekking boots with strong grips.
- A windproof jacket
- Fleece
- Long sleeve shirts
- Trekking pants / shorts
- Underwear
- Socks
- Gloves
- Sun hat
- Night hat (warm)
- Sleeping mat
- Quick-dry towel
- Washing powder
- Toiletries
- Wet Wipes
- Trekking poles
- Water bottles
- Water purification system
- Map
- Head torch
- Sunglasses
- Sunblock
- Chapstick
- First Aid Kit
Again, the above list is a basic trekking pack list. If you are going in the winter additional clothing will be needed. Likewise rain gear if it's cloudy etc.
For a full comprehensive trekking list please see my article on trekking equipment you need for Nepal
How difficult is the Pikey Peak Trek?
The Pikey Peak Trek is easy to moderate.
Download my guidebook and get the full details of this trek
Get this trek, plus 28 others in a premium guidebook for only $19.99
Also available in paperback
The hardest parts of the Pikey Peak trek are from Bhandar to Pikey Peak itself. It's this area that's still a "new" trail. The bonus for using this trail is that you'll get to experience real teahouses as opposed to popular lodges etc.
Pikey Peak itself only takes about an hour to go up, but don't forget that this is often done pre dawn so you can see the sunrise. There's also the second Pikey Peak next to the first if you are so inclined so that's thirty minutes down and another hour up again!
If you've never trekked in Nepal before, don't underestimate Pikey Peak. Go prepared. That said, it is one of the more enjoyable treks in Nepal.
Nagaor Gumba and Mountains on the Pikey Peak Trek
If it happens to be cloudy as you draw closer to Pikey Peak, you can double up days or leave from Junbesi if you need an extra day at Pikey Peak base camp waiting for the weather to clear.
How fit do I need to be for the Pikey Peak Trek?
Fitness for the Pikey Peak Trek will be relative to your own fitness levels. However, do remember the trek is noted as being moderate. There are elements to this trail which are new and there are plenty of steps.
As always I would advise anyone going trekking or hiking to see a doctor before they go for a check-up
If you are sedentary before the trek then you may well want to want to get some training in before going. Just because the trek is rated easy-moderate does not mean it will be a simple accomplishment.Ask yourself questions like do you or can you walk for 8 hours a day? If not, then some exercise would be good before you take on a trek like this. Keep in mind part of the trail is new, there are many stone steps, and you'll be sleeping in some basic teahouses.
If you have concerns about the weight of your bag then a porter can help with this trek. If there are two of you trekking then sharing a porter is a great idea to break the cost in two and also the load in two!
What's the food like on the Pikey Peak Trek?
Early on there are plenty of Tea houses and lodges along the Pikey Peak trek with good menus with plenty to chose from. After Bhandar things get more basic depending on the time of year.
Dal Bhat and Sherpa stew are the trekking staples in this region. Trekking dal bhat consists of rice, potatoes, vegetables, and lentil soup. Meat like chicken or buff is also available on this trek.
Pizza, lasagna, and steaks (chicken, buffalo or yak) are commonplace. However, do note that Yaks are not commonly eaten and "marketing" usually means it's buffalo meat. Likewise if you are new to Nepal, cheese has been known to upset trekkers stomachs. It is not refrigerated. Sticking with dal bhat for lunch, dinner and for breakfast pancakes or porridge can help people from stomach issues.
Bringing a few cans of tuna, sardines or packets of nuts can break the meal time monotony. Protein or energy bars can help too - but bring them from home as they are expensive in Nepal.
Hash brown potatoes with eggs on the Pikey Peak Trek
Filtering water is an important consideration on this trek. Environmentalists have rightfully highlighted plastic pollution issues in Nepal. However, filtered water in the Solukhumbu region is not always sanitary. Water filters are rarely maintained or cleaned. Proper hand sanitization is not practiced. Boiling your water and treating it with your own filtration system is an important consideration. Iodine, water purification drops, steripens and lifestraws can all be used. I generally use a mix of each system every day. I also boil my water.
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Pancakes | 300-500 Rupees |
| Fried eggs (2) | 250-400 Rupees |
| Porridge | 400-500 Rupees |
| Tibetan Bread | 200-400 Rupees |
| Dal Bhat (Meat) | 500-1200 Rupees |
| Dal Bhat (Veg) | 450-800 Rupees |
| Sherpa Stew | 400-500 Rupees |
| Fried Noodles (Veg) | 450-500 Rupees |
| Fried Potatoes with Cheese | 550-700 Rupees |
| Pasta with sauce | 500-700 Rupees |
| Tea/Coffee | 100-200 Rupees |
| 1 liter beer | 1000+ Rupees |
| Soft Drinks (Coke, Sprite etc.) | 200-500 Rupees | 1 liter tap water (from underground spring or stream) | free |
| 1 liter boiled water (for filtering) | 100-200 Rupees | 1 liter bottled water | 100-400 rupees |
What's accommodation like on the Pikey Peak Trek?
From Jiri/Shivalaya to Bhandar the accommodation is quite good with many options. From Bhandar to Pikey Peak things get more basic. Then from Junbesi it's back to more choices again.
Accommodation "should" have a fixed minimum charge of 500 rupees which is unofficial and may not always be enforced. Prices for a room are often higher in busy areas, and go back to teahouse rates of about 500 in the less populated areas. Add $10 for a private bathroom in most places.
While the Solukhumbu region is renown for adding on extra costs that you mightn't expect in a normal lodge, it hasn't caught on much around Pikey Peak. This is particularly true from Bhandar onwards to Pikey Peak itself. It's still a "new" route, so the lodges are literally converted farmhouses or cottages. If Pikey Peak because popular like Poon Hill, expect all that to change. But it's still a long way off.
There's really no need for sleeping bags on this trek unless you are going in the depths of winter. Or, if you like to have your own layer between you and some well used blankets.
Read more and see what trekking accommodation is like in Nepal.
How much does the Pikey Peak Trek cost?
The cost of a Pikey Peak trek will depend on how many days you are going for plus the standard of accommodation you want and if you want a porter or not. One of the current issues with Pikey Peak prices is that online prices are simply too good to be true. Trekkers when they arrive are suddenly told of last minute price increase "beyond the control" of the trekking company. Read on to find out how to avoid this problem
Working out your trekking budget
The Pikey Peak trek itinerary explained on this page will give you a great idea on how to budget your trek. We depart from Jiri/Shivalaya and conclude at Salleri. There are two main issues to work out with this trek. The route and transport costs.The vast majority of package treks to Pikey Peak offer 4-6 day treks starting and ending in Dhap (just south of Pikey Peak). You arrive their by car from Kathmandu, and off you go to Pikey Peak, and come back down via Dhap again. The issue with this itinerary is that you'll be spending most of your time in a car followed by a quick jaunt. Add in three more days or for fit trekkers speeding up the Shivalaya - Pikey Peak - Salleri trek, and you get a much more fulfilling trek across much more interesting landscapes. AKA better value for money.
The second price issue is transport. Most trekking companies will try to bundle you into "private" jeeps. There are in fact plenty of buses. It's a comfort issue. The cost difference can be significant. It's also worth pointing out that many of these too good to be true trekking prices mention a private jeep, but when you get there its a shared jeep "because of an emergency issue". The price still remains the same ...
Online package tours can range from USD$500-900+pp for one of the 6 day treks. For 9 days it goes up to "$900-1200"
These prices include a guide, porter accommodation, meals, permits, and transport.However, as mentioned earlier many of these package treks have additional extras including surcharges for solo trekkers and annoying Kathmandu extras.
Again, beware of the itinerary! Read it closely. And remember the above "catches". While 6 days sounds like a better trek, a 9 day trek from Shivalaya is again much more fulfilling and value for money.
In country package treks for the
Pikey Peak trek bought in Nepal are significantly cheaper.
Better still, you are less likely to be overcharged
or have hidden extras. You'll be meeting the trekking agency in person
and know exactly what you are paying for. You'll also meet your guide.
Go over the itinerary in person. And, know if there are
any "transport issues".
A 6 day Pikey trek can cost from USD $460
pp to $600 per person. For the 9 day trek it can cost
$650 upwards. These prices include a guide, porter, accommodation, meals, permits and local transport. Keep
in mind that although the prices may be similar to
online booking you'll be getting a lot more without the
fear of extras.
Need to cut costs? Drop the porter. Now that 9 day trek will cost $490 for a 9 day trek!
My Find A Guide Service can help you out here but do try to get in contact before arriving in Nepal as I deal directly with fully qualified guides from that region.
Guide only
services for the Pikey Peak trek will mean you'll need to do
a lot more planning. You'll need to arrange your own
permits and transport. You'll also
need to carry enough cash to deal with accommodation and
meals. It can all add up.
Solukhumbu guides are slightly more costly than other
guides in Nepal. Also be aware of "street guides" in
Kathmandu, who have never actually been to Pikey Peak. The cost of a guide on this trek can
range from USD$25 per day to $50 per day.
Trekking Pikey Peak by yourself is possible but you should have trekked in Nepal before in regards to knowing what to expect and safety. The issue with Pikey Peak is around the main Pikey Peak areas itself which is not all that well marked out. The trails are also not well maintained and there are plenty of them.
Shivalaya and Junbesi however are well marked out. It's just a question of navigating the new trail areas. Until the trail is properly maintained, it is far safer, and enjoyable, to take a guide with you.
If you are looking for a guide for the Pikey Peak Trek then I recommend you read my article on how to find a trekking guide in Nepal. Alternatively use my Find a Trekking Guide Service.
Average 9 day trek cost for the Pikey Peak trek (guide only)
| Item | Cost USD $ |
| Permits (Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit) | 30 |
| Guide x 9 days ($30) | 270 |
| Porter ? | |
| Accommodation | 45 |
| Meals (tea house) | 162 |
| Water 4 liters a day x9 (the rest is filtered) | 36 |
| Transport | 40 |
| Total | 583 |
As you can see the above trek can easily match a package trek cost. If you are two, then accommodation and guide prices are halved but there's still the convenience and help a package trek can aid you with. This includes transport booking, accommodation booking, and permits. Hence, a package trek is a popular choice for the Pikey Peak trek.
Extras:
Solukhumbu is renown for its extras. Not included in the above are hot showers and battery charging. These prices can easily be 200-500 per charge and or shower.
Travel insurance should be included and do make sure you are covered for trekking. Here is my recommendation for travel insurance when in Nepal.
How to reduce your budget on the Pikey Peak Trek
Costs that cannot be reduced trekking permits unless you leave from Dhap.
Savings can be made on meals but not by much - do not skimp on food!. Water costs are based on boiling your water so if you just filter, then the costs declines.
You may well be able to get a cheaper guide for this trek or a porter-guide - though I do recommend you go with an experienced trekking guide from the region. Try my Find a Trekking Guide Service.
Pikey Peak Trek itineraries
This section shows you several itineraries for the Pikey Peak Trek. Do read through them carefully to understand the route and the differences to get the best value from the trek. It is easily added to the traditional classic Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek.
Unlike the normal issue of trying to "extend" treks, Nepali trekking agents have a habit of trying to shorten the Pikey Peak trek. The reason is simply, there's not a lot else to do in the area. So, they make most of their cash via transport hikes. Get 'em in, get 'em out is just what you need to avoid.
It is important to keep a day in reserve for this trek due to the vast number of weather conditions you will encounter if you want 360 degree views of both Everest and the Annapurna mountain ranges. Again, the 9 day trek takes this into account as you can have several days of speeding things up, or slowing them down so you can get the best views from the top of Pikey Peak.
Photographing mountains on Pikey Peak
9-6 Day Pikey Peak Trek Itinerary
| Day | Route | Distance | Highest Altitude |
| 1 | Kathmandu to Shivalaya/Jiri (jeep/bus) | 7-9 hours | 1,770 m |
| 2 | Shivalaya to Bhandar | 5-6 hours | 2,190 m |
| 3 | Bhandar to Namkheli | 5-7 + hours | 2,412 m |
| 4 | Namkheli to Nagaor Gumba (Ngaur) | 6-7+ hours | 3,350 m |
| 5 | Nagaor Gumba (Ngaur) to Pikey Peak Base Camp * | 3+ hours | 3640 m |
| 6 | Pikey Peak Base Camp - Pikey Peak - to Jase Bhanjyang ** | 4-6 hours | 3,520 m |
| 7 | Jase Bhanjyang to Junbesi | 6-7 hours | 2,700 m |
| 8 | Junbesi to Phaplu/Salleri *** | 4-6+ hours | 2,390 m |
| 9 | Phaplu/Salleri to Kathmandu | 1-9 hours | 1,400 m |
* Day can be shortened (details in my guidebook)
** Day can be lengthened (details in my guidebook)
***
Day can be shortened (details in my guidebook)
6 Day Pikey Peak Trek Itinerary
It is possible to do the Pikey Peak trek in 6 days using the above itinerary, but you'd need to fly out of Salleri, otherwise it can be reduced to 7 days.
Typical 6 day Pikey Peak itineraries are actually fairly standard. This is one of the better options.
| Day | Route | Distance | Highest Altitude |
| 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap trek to Japre | 6-8/3 hours | 2,820 m |
| 2 | Japre to Pikey Peak Base Camp | 5-6 hours | 3,640 m |
| 3 | Pikey Peak Base Camp - Pikey Peak - to Jase Bhanjyang | 4-6 hours | 3,520 m |
| 4 | Jase Bhanjyang to Junbesi | 6-7 hours | 2,700 m |
| 5 | Junbesi to Phaplu/Salleri | 4-6+ hours | 2,390 m |
| 6 | Phaplu/Salleri to Kathmandu | 1-9 hours | 1,400 m |
The above 6 day Pikey Peak Itinerary consists of a lot of road. Not only are day 1 and day 6 driving days. But day 5 is all trekking on dirt road too, albeit with pleasant surroundings, mountains etc. Personally, I would prefer reducing the 9 day itinerary to 7 and covering more ground.
4 Day Pikey Peak Trek itinerary
For those who are really only going for a view, a quick hike, and private transport this might be more what you are looking for.It's basically a drive to Dhap, a hike to Japre, next day hiking all the way to Pikey Peak, then back again.
| Day | Route | Distance | Highest Altitude |
| 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Dhap trek to Japre | 6-8/3 hours | 2,820 m |
| 2 | Japre to Pikey Peak Base Camp | 5-6 hours | 3,640 m |
| 3 | Pikey Peak Base Camp - Pikey Peak - to Japre | 6-7 hours | 2,820 m |
| 4 | Japre to Dhap - Drive to Kathmandu | 3/9 hours | 1,400 m |
If you do opt for this short, fast trek up to Pikey Peak then you'll need to have private transport to take you from Dhap to Kathmandu as public jeeps will likely not be leaving by the time you reach Dhap.
What's the best Pikey Peak itinerary?
If you are looking to the do the classic Jiri to Everest Base camp trek, choosing to add in Pikey Peak is a no brainer. It's one of the only places on earth you can easily see both the Everest and Annapurna Mountain ranges from the same view point.
Of the three itineraries, my own preferred one is the 9 day itinerary. You get to see and experience a lot more. You can also speed things up if the weather changes or you need to whittle the days down to 7 days.
Do see my Find A Trekking Guide Service for more.
More information on Trekking in Nepal
For alternative treks do read my list of treks in Nepal which is continually being added to based on popularity or request.
If looking for a trekking guide I recommend you read my article on How to find a trekking guide in Nepal
or you can use the
Find a Guide Service.
Liked this page? You'll love my trekking books! First Time Trekking in Nepal is a hands-on trekking guidebook that's better than the rest. Yes, really!
While my Trekking & Hiking Journal helps you to keep a daily log of your trek and to create your own trekking memoirs. Looking for more? Look at all my guidebooks to Nepal available in digital & print editions to everyone around the world!
|
|
 |
Trekking in Nepal
|
Trekking & Hiking Journal
|
| Discover more guidebooks to Nepal! | |
Was this page helpful to you? If so please tell others!
