Pikey Peak Trek - 6 Days

Overview

The Pikey Peak Trek is one of the most scenic short treks in Nepal. Located in the lower Khumbu Region of central-eastern Nepal, the trek explores the valleys, alpine ridges, and panoramic views from the Ganesh Himal range to the far east Kanchenjunga. Home to rare and protected birds and animals, the trekking area is also mainly inhabited by ethnic groups such as Tamang, Sherpa, Rai, Magar, Jirel, and Chettri. Tibetan Buddhism is the main religion in upper areas such as Salleri and Junbesi, while lower areas like Okhaldhunga blend Hindu and Buddhist practices, reflecting Nepal’s diverse traditions.

Pikey Peak Trek – A cultural journey. Why?

When it comes to short trekking from Kathmandu, it offers both stunning views of the Himalayas and a blend of nature and culture. The trek rounds the lower Everest region in the Solukhumbu district, and the itinerary takes you through the lower part of the Khumbu area and reaches the upper part of the Khumbu, which is the highlight of the whole trek. How?

Nepal is a diverse country, housing different ethnic groups co-existing in perfect harmony. However, none of these groups don’t make a living in one particular area but are rather scattered throughout the country. To make it clearer, Nepal is divided into three main regions: The Himalayas, the Hills, and the Terai. In the same manner, the diversity of Nepal is also divided into, or rather changes depending on the region. And Pikey Peak Trek explores the hills and the lower Himalayas, which makes it a cultural trek as well. Though Buddhism dominates the trek, the overall journey is spiritually enlightening, with the main highlight along the way being Thupten Choling Monastery.

What’s special about Thupten Choling Monastery?

Thupten Choling is a living Tibetan Buddhist Monastery located above the village of Junbesi in Solukhumbu district, Koshi Province, Nepal. Roughly 80-100 permanent nuns and monks, and temporary meditators or practitioners, occupy the monastery currently.

During the year 1959 Chinese invasion of Tibet, many monks, including His Holiness Trulshik Rinpoche, fled Tibet. After leaving Tibet, Trulshik Rinpoche and his followers spent time in monasteries of the Khumbu Region, including Thame Monastery, until 1968, when the land above Junbesi was donated and Thupten Choling Monastery was built there. Trulshik Rinpoche saw the monastery as a temporary retreat and hoped to return to Tibet. So, the initial building was not strong or made for the long term, which later deteriorated, and with reconstruction, it became a permanent residence. Tibetan refugees were more than welcome in Solu, and due to proximity to other monasteries and followers, the monastery became a permanent home for monks and nuns.

The history is to let the trekkers know that Thupten Choling Monastery is more than just a house for monks and nuns; the monastery itself is a history that carries the conflict of Tibet and China. When it comes to knowledge of Buddhism, the monastery was founded during the time of His Holiness Trulshik Rinpoche himself, with all the Tibetan Buddhism still in practice and passed down. This makes the Pikey Peak Trek also a spiritual journey, along with a cultural journey, perfect for those who want to learn more about Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal along the trek.

Is this the right trek for you?

There are a few checklists before knowing if a trek is indeed for you. Before planning a trek, know what you want to get from the trek. Is it an unparalleled view of the Himalayas, a cultural trek, a wilderness trek far from regular trekkers, or a round trek of a whole region?

The Pikey Peak is a 6-day trek in the lower Khumbu. With a max elevation of 4065M above sea level, the trek passes through lush valleys of Dhap and heads towards the alpine ridges, and panoramic views of Everest and neighboring mountains. After a whole day's drive from Kathmandu to Dhap, the trek passes green, lush valleys and small villages with stupas in the hills. With the days, the vegetation shifts towards high meadows and dry grassy lands with rhododendrons dominating the major parts till Pikey Base Camp. The peak is the top of a dry hill, which serves as a viewpoint of the Great Himalayas from the Ganesh Himal Range to the far east Kanchenjunga. Afterwards comes the Junbesi, the village of Sherpas who are known for their rich monastic traditions, especially connected to Thupten Choling and the nearby monastery.

From these points, the Pikey Peak Trek can be more than a week’s journey to viewpoints. It is a trip of cultural, spiritual, and physical journey in the Himalayas. Those who seek to learn Tibetan Buddhism can also have a temporary retreat in Thupten Choling Monastery.

Is Pikey Peak the best short trek?

In short, yes, it is the best short trek of Nepal, which covers both scenic views and cultural aspects well. Though it may not take you close to the Himalayas but the panoramic view of the Himalayas from Pikey is something that can’t be compared either.

Pikey Peak is known for offering the best panoramic view of 80% of the whole Himalayas in one frame, along with rich, diverse Sherpa culture and its renowned Thupten Choling Monastery, which is also the highlight of the trek.

Comparing the Pikey Peak trek with other popular short treks, which cover both panoramic sights and cultural appearances, like the Langtang Valley trek.

Pikey Peak trek – Langtang Valley trek

Scenic views and the Himalayas: Both trek offers different experiences in terms of the view of the mountains. Pikey Peak takes you to a viewpoint from where the whole Himalayas, from the Ganesh Himal Range to the far east Kanchenjunga, can be seen. While, Langtang Valley trek takes you as close as possible, surrounded by the mountains.

Trekking Trails: TheTrail leading to Pikey Peak goes on top of a hill and forested areas, mostly on alpine meadows. The trail of Langtang Valley passes through dense forest of hills in the beginning and alpine valleys later.

Cultural aspects: The Langtang Valley Trek is also known for offering a peaceful, calm cultural experience. Since Langtang village is a Sherpa settlement, the trek revolves around traditions, rituals, and beliefs. As tourism intensified, Langtang became more tourism-focused, and the famous Kyanjin Gompa became more passive. This is also the main reason for Pikey Peak to be the choice for a cultural trek. Since the monastery in Junbesi is still actively running and passing on the knowledge.

Every trekking region is beautiful in its own way. The experience may differ due to the trekker’s personal choices as well. So, always be clear about what you want during your trek as well.

Best time to do the Pikey Peak trek

Trekking in Nepal is an adventure activity that many trekkers prefer to do during the seasonal months. When? Trekking seasons in Nepal start twice a year, from March to May/June and from September to November/December. Why? During these specific months, Nepal experiences Spring, Autumn, and early Winter. It is the perfect time for adventure activities due to stable weather, clear and crisp skies, dry trails, and seasonal festivals across the country. To get clearer, let’s break down what you experience during the different seasons.

March-June: Spring season (Pre-Monsoon)

• Less haze offers a panoramic view of the mountain range.
• Stable weather, perfect for adventure activities like trekking.
• Dry and safe trails.
• Colorful forest full of different flowers.
• Seasonal festivals in Villages.

September-November: Autumn season (Post-monsoon)

• Clear and crisp sky, offering the best panoramic view of the Himalayas.
• Ideal season for trekking.
• Perfect and stable weather, as the monsoon has ended.
• Forest with red and golden hues.
• Possible wildlife movement in the Himalayas.
• Safe trails and low possibility of landslides.
• Experience the greatest and longest festival of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar.

These two months are preferred by most trekkers due to their stable weather and safe trails, offering the best panoramic views. The months from September to November are considered the best time for trekking as the monsoon ends and the rain has cleared the dust.

Though some trekking is also preferred to be done during the monsoon, which is known as a monsoon trek. For more information, follow the given link.

Is Pikey Peak trek difficult for beginners?

In short, Pikey Peak trek ranks among the moderate level of treks. The trekking period is short, the altitude reached is 4065M, and the trails are actually beginner-friendly. Though the trekking difficulty can’t be determined by the number of walking days, altitude, and trails alone. Many other factors, such as accommodation along the way, trekking hours per day, food, and transportation, also play a vital role in trekking difficulty. So, is the Pikey Peak trek possible for a beginner trekker? The answer is YES.

In accordance with our standard itinerary of the Pikey Peak trek, the trek lasts for 6 days with 4 walking days and 2 road days. The trekking hour is also short, with a maximum walking time of an hour, no more than 8 hours. The trails from the very beginning start with a short roadway and a gradual uphill to Jhapre, from where it’s a moderately long uphill to Pikey Base Camp. Once you cross Pikey Peak, with an uphill once it’s usually downhill till Junbesi, and the last road trek to Salleri or Phaplu. About the foods and accommodation at Pikey Peak, it will be explained in more detail.

So, if you are a physically fit person, then yes, this trip is recommended for you. Since the Pikey Peak trek is also an all-age trek.

Accommodation and food at Pikey Peak.

Though less developed than trekking regions like Langtang when it comes to accommodation and food, the Pikey Peak trek also doesn’t fall behind. Just like in any other renowned trekking area, Pikey Peak also follows a standard restaurant pattern with a variety of foods and drinks offered more locally.

Accommodation is usually consistent throughout the trek, with clean and spacious rooms with two beds per room. Though Lodges in Dhap, Jhapre, and Pikey Base Camp may not have attached bathrooms, they are usually clean and well-maintained. Lodges in Junbesi and Phaplu offer better accommodation when compared to other parts. Since it’s not a camp but rather a village and a town, which were also used as a stopping point in the history of Everest Trekking.

Highlights of the Pikey Peak Trek

The main highlight of the Pikey Peak trek is its stunning view of 80% of the whole Himalaya Range and the living Monastery of Junbesi, Thupten Choling Monastery. Pikey Peak trek is known for the panoramic view of the Himalayan Range with a cultural blend of rich Sherpa culture. Listed under the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Pikey Peak is also home to rare species of birds and animals, with possible wildlife moments around Pikey Base Camp. Some of the main highlights of the Pikey Peak Trek can be: -

Flora and Fauna

• Himalayan Monal (Danphe) - Nepal’s national bird.
• Blood Pheasant and Kalij Pheasant.
• Blue whistling thrush and Himalayan Griffon Vulture.
• Himalayan Black Bear and Red Panda.
• Himalayan Tahr and Barking Deer.
• Langurs and HimalayanMonkeys.

Cultural Highlights

• Living Monastery of Junbesi – Thupten Choling Monastery.
• Mani walls and stupas along the routes.
• Rich Sherpa culture of Solu.
• Diverse culture Dhap.

How to get there?

To reach Pikey Peak is easy and simple. You can get a morning local jeep from Chabahil to Dhap, which takes around 8hr. Once you reach  Dhap, the trail is friendly with route marks in most places and easily identifiable trails. From Dhap, the trail mostly follows the roadway to Jhapre, from where you pass through a dense jungle for an hour or two, and again follow a roadway for another hour or two till Bhulbule. Afterwards, the trail passes through dense forest and alpine grasslands with constant uphill to Pikey Base Camp. From Pikey base camp, it's an uphill hike to Pikey peak and a downhill to a lodge and another uphill to Jasmane Bhanjyang. After crossing Jasmane Bhanjyang, it’s a downhill to Junbesi and a roadway to Phaplu, from where you can get a jeep ride back to Kathmandu.

Guide and porter cost for Pikey Peak trek.

The rate of guides and porters for trekking purposes is the same for every trek. Hiring a professional licensed trek guide costs you 25 USD per day and more for trek guides with optional language skills as well.

A porter can cost you 20USD per person per day. One porter for two trekkers is a standard recommendation with a maximum weight of 20-25kg.

For more information on hiring trek guides and porters in Nepal, follow the given link.

How much would the cost be in 2025 and 2026?

This is the question that arises in the mind of most travelers trekking to this area; yes, the price depends on the mode of your tour. Typically, the trekking package price is USD 580 to 600 for a 7-day program based on two people sharing, but your mode of transportation differs from the cost. Our standard price is USD 440 per person, inclusive of a package with local group transport. for a 5-night, 6-day tour.
If you prefer relaxing transportation, the extra cost will be:
Flight from Phaplu:USD 158 per person; the same rate for vice versa.
A private jeep hire costs USD 230 for the group and the same rate for the way back.

Alternative Itinerary via Jiri - Bhandar - Namkheli Route (Cost USD 699 per adult)

Day 1: Kathmandu to Bamti Bhandar.
Day 2: Bhandar – Namkheli
Day 3: Namkheli – Golla
Day 4: Golla – Pikey Base Camp
Day 5: Pikey Base Camp – Pikey Peak - Lamjura Danda or Jasmane Bhanjyang
Day 6: Lamjura or Jasmane Bhanjyang - Junbesi
Day 7: Junbesi – Thupten Choeling Monastery – Junbesi
Day 8: Junbesi – Chiwang - Phaplu
Day 9: Phaplu - Kathmandu