Max. Elevation
Overview
Away from the busy trails of the Everest region, the Pikey Peak Trek reveals a quieter side of Nepal, where mountain life, ancient traditions, and spectacular landscapes come together. Located in the Solu region, this journey offers an opportunity to experience the Himalayas at a gentler pace while discovering the culture and hospitality of local communities.
The trail winds through traditional Sherpa villages, peaceful monasteries, green hillsides, rhododendron forests, and terraced farmland. Along the way, you can observe everyday village life, learn about local Buddhist traditions, and appreciate the cultural diversity of the region, which is also home to Magar and Tamang communities.
The journey reaches its highlight at Pikey Peak (4,068 m). From the summit, clear skies can reveal an extraordinary panorama of Mount Everest and other towering Himalayan peaks. Beyond the views, Pikey Peak holds spiritual importance for local Sherpa communities, adding cultural meaning to the mountain experience.
With its beautiful walking trails, welcoming villages, rich heritage, and impressive mountain scenery, the Pikey Peak Trek is ideal for travellers who want to explore beyond Nepal’s most crowded trekking routes. It offers a rewarding combination of nature, culture, and Himalayan adventure in one memorable journey.
Itinerary
Expand AllWelcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, an Alpinist Club representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu by private vehicle.
Later, meet your trekking guide for a trip briefing covering the itinerary, altitude profile, essential equipment, weather conditions, and domestic flight arrangements to Lukla. If you arrive early, you can relax at your hotel or explore the nearby streets of Kathmandu.
- Altitude: 1,350 m
- Transfer: Airport to hotel by private vehicle
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Meals: Welcome dinner
route winds through green valleys, terraced hillsides, traditional villages, and beautiful countryside, offering a glimpse of rural life in Nepal.
Road conditions can be rough in some sections, so the journey may take longer than expected. Arrive in Phaplu in the late afternoon and settle into your lodge.
A flight to Phaplu may sometimes be available, but services are limited and can be affected by weather or operational changes.
- Driving time: Approximately 8 hours
- Destination altitude: Approximately 2,470 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Phaplu
Begin the day with a walk toward Jambuk village, where you can stop for lunch and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding settlements. Later, climb toward Chiwong Gompa, a Buddhist monastery perched on a hillside overlooking the Phaplu Valley.
Founded in 1923, the monastery is an important religious centre in the Sherpa region. From its elevated position, enjoy impressive views of Numbur (6,958 m), Katang (6,852 m), and the surrounding mountains. The monastery is also associated with the annual Mani Rimdu festival, an important celebration in Sherpa Buddhist culture.
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Elevation gain: Approximately 130 m
- Destination altitude: Approximately 2,600 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
Continue your journey through traditional villages and peaceful countryside toward Ringmo. Today's walk is relatively gentle, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and gradually adjust to the increasing altitude.
Ringmo is a charming village surrounded by orchards, particularly apple trees. Its location along the trail to Thupten Chöling makes it a pleasant stop before heading deeper into the spiritual heart of the Solu region.
- Walking time: Approximately 4 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: Approximately 400 m ascent and 200 m descent
- Destination altitude: Approximately 2,720 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Ringmo
Today's trail climbs through beautiful rhododendron forests, with opportunities to enjoy views of Thamserku (6,608 m), Mera Peak (6,476 m), Numbur (6,959 m), and other Himalayan peaks.
After crossing a mountain pass, descend toward Thupten Chöling Gompa, one of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery complexes in the Solu region. Founded in the 1960s by Trulshik Rinpoche after his escape from Tibet, the monastery is associated with the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.
The peaceful setting and traditional monastic life make this a memorable cultural highlight. Depending on local arrangements, you may have time to visit the monastery grounds and observe the surrounding village respectfully.
- Walking time: 6 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: 750 m ascent and 550 m descent
- Destination altitude: 2,920 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
This is the most demanding day of the trek. We follow the Taktor Khola valley before climbing steeply through dense rhododendron and conifer forests. From the Pabu Danda Pass (3,730 m), we enjoy a magnificent panoramic view before descending to Jase Bhanjyang.
- Walking time: Approximately 7 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: Approximately 850 m ascent and 400 m descent
- Destination altitude: Approximately 3,550 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
Start early for the ascent of Pikey Peak, one of the outstanding viewpoints in the Solu region. From the summit at approximately 4,068 m, enjoy panoramic views across the Himalayan range. On a clear day, the panorama may extend from the Annapurna region in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east, including Mount Everest and several other famous peaks.
After spending time at the viewpoint, descend to Pikey Peak Base Camp, where you will spend the night surrounded by open mountain landscapes.
- Walking time: Approximately 4 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: Approximately 520 m ascent and 370 m descent
- Highest point: Pikey Peak, 4,068 m
- Overnight altitude: Approximately 3,700 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
If weather or visibility prevented a clear view from Pikey Peak the previous day, an optional early-morning return to the viewpoint may be possible, depending on conditions and the group's fitness.
Continue downhill toward Naur, a small settlement at approximately 3,400 m. Depending on local opening hours, you may have an opportunity to visit a local cheese factory before continuing to Goli Gompa.
Goli Gompa is a spiritual centre in the region, known for its monasteries and peaceful traditional atmosphere. Enjoy the cultural surroundings before settling into your lodge.
- Walking time: Approximately 5 hours
- Elevation change: Approximately 700 m descent, excluding any optional additional hike
- Destination altitude: Approximately 3,000 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
Leave Goli Gompa and descend toward Namkheli village. Continue through rural settlements and cross the Likhu Khola River before climbing toward the Bandhar plateau.
The route passes through terraced farmland, forested hills, and traditional villages, offering a closer look at everyday life in the lower Solu region. Bandhar is an important point along the historic trekking route toward the Everest region.
- Walking time: Approximately 5 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: Approximately 600 m ascent and 1,450 m descent
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Bandh
Today's walk includes an ascent toward Deurali Pass at approximately 2,700 m, followed by a long descent through green hills and traditional settlements to Shivalaya.
Shivalaya is a riverside village along the historic approach to the Everest region. This trail was part of the traditional overland route used by early Himalayan expeditions, including the journey associated with Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay before their historic Everest ascent.
Enjoy the changing scenery as the landscape becomes greener at lower elevations.
- Walking time: Approximately 5 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: Approximately 500 m ascent and 900 m descent
- Destination altitude: Approximately 1,790 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Shivalaya
Enjoy your final day of trekking through the hills of the lower Everest region. Begin with a sustained climb toward Mali Danda Pass at approximately 2,335 m, followed by a gradual descent through forested trails and local settlements toward Jiri.
Jiri is a historic gateway to the Everest region and offers a fitting end to your walking adventure. After arriving, settle into your lodge and relax after completing the trek.
- Walking time: Approximately 4 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: Approximately 600 m ascent and 400 m descent
- Destination altitude: Approximately 1,995 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge in Jiri
After breakfast, begin the drive back to Kathmandu. The journey passes through hillside settlements, river valleys, terraced farmland, and changing landscapes as you approach the capital.
Arrive in Kathmandu in the late afternoon, depending on traffic and road conditions. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a relaxing evening or explore the city's restaurants and shops independently.
- Driving time: 8 hours
- Destination altitude: Approximately 1,350 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at your own expense, unless included in the package
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Spend the day exploring the cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley, including Bhaktapur and Boudhanath.
In Bhaktapur, wander through historic squares and narrow streets lined with traditional brick buildings, intricately carved wooden windows, temples, and pagoda-style architecture. The city's preserved heritage makes it one of the most distinctive cultural destinations in Nepal.
Continue to Boudhanath, home to one of Nepal's largest and most important Buddhist stupas. Observe pilgrims walking clockwise around the monument, spinning prayer wheels, and offering prayers in the surrounding monasteries and shops.
This cultural excursion offers a fascinating contrast to the mountain landscapes experienced during the trek.
- Activities: Guided sightseeing in Bhaktapur and Boudhanath
- Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at your own expense, unless specified otherwise
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Your Nepal adventure comes to an end today. At the appropriate time, our local team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your return flight to Europe.
We hope you leave with wonderful memories of Pikey Peak's Himalayan panoramas, the monasteries of Solu, traditional mountain villages, and Nepal's rich cultural heritage.
- Transfer: Hotel to airport by private vehicle
- Meals: Breakfast
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
Airport Transfers : Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu by private vehicle.
Accommodation in Kathmandu : Hotel accommodation before and after the trek, based on twin-sharing rooms.
Meals During the Trek : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner as specified in the itinerary.
Welcome Dinner : Welcome dinner in Kathmandu.
Private Transportation : Road transportation between Kathmandu, Phaplu, and Jiri, including the return drive to Kathmandu, according to the itinerary.
Licensed Trekking Guide : Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide.
Assistant Guide : Assistant guide when required by group size and trekking conditions.
Porter Service : Porter support, with one porter shared between every two trekkers, subject to the agreed luggage allowance.
Trekking Permits : Applicable trekking permits and local entry fees are required for the confirmed route.
Guides and Porter Expenses : Staff meals, accommodation, wages, and necessary transportation during the trek.
Kathmandu Sightseeing : Guided visit to Bhaktapur and Boudhanath, including transportation, as specified in the itinerary.
Government Taxes : Applicable government taxes and service charges related to the included services.
Excluded Points
International airfare : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
Nepal Visa : Nepal tourist visa fees and related expenses.
Travel Insurance : Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation
Meals in Kathmandu : Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, except for the included welcome dinner.
Personal Expenses : Laundry, Wi-Fi, charging fees, hot showers, telephone calls, and other personal services.
Personal Trekking Equipment : Trekking boots, clothing, sleeping bag, trekking poles, and other personal gear.
Tips and Gratuities : Tips for the trekking guide, assistant guide, porter, and driver
Additional Accommodation : Extra hotel or lodge nights caused by early arrival, late departure, itinerary changes, or unforeseen circumstances.
Extra : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary, and Anything not mentioned in the “cost included” section.
Trip Information
Pikey Peak Trek Details
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all follow his advice! Often your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains and, especially when during high-altitude travels, your guide is responsible for the safety of the group. The instructions he gives and the remarks he makes to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
Your Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
- The Guide Leader (Sirdar) is responsible for and the leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
- The Assistant Guide: is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
- The Porter is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
( from 4 people of the group of trekkers: we will provide 1 Leader Guide, 1 Assistant Guide, And 2 porters ) . Nepalese teams depend on the Number of Clients and the area of trekking
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person: For Lodge (tea house) Accommodations trek:15 kg maximum;
Additionally, the Alpinist Club ensures that insurance is provided for the guide and porters. They are also equipped with specific gear for crossing high-altitude passes.
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:
- Hotel Himalayan Suite: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
- Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Meal in Kathmandu: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a welcome dinner is provided on the first evening. Similarly, upon return from the expedition, a farewell meal is provided. In the cities, many small (or large) restaurants allow us to discover the typical local cuisine.
Accommodation and Meals during the pikey Peak
For lodge accommodation: during the Everest Base Camp, you will stay in the lodge or Tea House with twin shared bedrooms. The lodge is good in the Everest Region, and we will provide you with a room with an attached bathroom ( Lukla, Phakding, Namche, Phortse, and Dingboche ) at lobuche and Gorakshep have only normal rooms.
Meal in Everest Base Camp: for this trek Meals are prepared by the Lodge's cook and served in the dining room.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
- Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, or pancakes, butter/jam, ginger honey, tea or coffee
- Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
- Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee. During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
- Water: We provide water purification tablets. and recommended to bring refilling bottles with purified water. Avoid buying mineral water due to its environmental impact.
Pikey Peak Physical level
This program is designed for those who exercise regularly, especially in endurance activities. You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. The trek lasts 19 days, with daily hikes of 6 to 7 hours and altitude changes between 400 m and 1,350 m. The Everest Base Camp (5,360 m) often has snow later in the season.
Preparation for the Pikey Peak
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.
Medical check-up before going to Pikey Peak trek
Being in good health is essential to fully enjoying your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
Acute Mountain Sickness in Pikey Peak Trek
This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.
Group size for the Pikey Peak Trek
The group is composed of 1 to 10 participants maximum. The number of participants is voluntarily limited to allow a better immersion, to not embarrass our hosts, to develop spaces of freedom and to allow a great flexibility of operation. However, the maximum number can be exceeded in the case where the last person who registers wishes to travel with another or several other people. The services will not be modified and the conditions of the trip will be identical as a result.
Personal Equipment for Trekking
Personal equipment is not provided, but a complete list will be shared later. We will refine the list with you during the preparation days and up until departure based on your questions.
High-altitude sleeping bags and quality down jackets are costly items you may not use often. We offer these specific items for rent during the trek. You must return the equipment clean and in good condition, with a deposit required.
Safety During the Pikey Peak trek
Safety has always been our top priority at Alpinist. Our team of expert guides is dedicated to leading a fun and successful climb while ensuring safety remains uncompromised. We plan carefully, considering daily weather forecasts and paying diligent attention as we venture into high altitudes. Throughout the journey, we carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear.
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