Max. Elevation
Overview
The Pikey Peak Trek (4,068 m) is a scenic Himalayan adventure through the Solu region of Nepal, offering breathtaking mountain views, traditional Sherpa villages, peaceful Buddhist monasteries, and beautiful rhododendron forests. Away from the busy Everest trails, this trek provides a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic mountain culture and the warm hospitality of local communities.
The highlight is reaching Pikey Peak, where clear weather offers panoramic views of Mount Everest and other magnificent Himalayan peaks. Along the way, discover terraced fields, rolling hills, and culturally rich villages while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the region.
Combining natural beauty, cultural exploration, and rewarding mountain scenery, the Pikey Peak Trek is an excellent choice for travellers seeking an authentic Himalayan experience away from Nepal’s more crowded trekking routes.
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
The Pikey Peak Trek is a scenic Himalayan adventure reaching 4,068 meters in Nepal’s Solu region. The trek offers traditional Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, beautiful forest trails, and panoramic Himalayan views. Alpinist Club provides experienced guides, local tea house accommodation, and trekking support throughout the journey. A reasonable level of fitness, proper preparation, and awareness of altitude are important for a safe and enjoyable experience. We also encourage responsible travel to help preserve the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Read MoreYour Guide and Trekking Team
Alpinist Club provides an experienced trekking guide to support your journey through the Solu region. Your guide manages daily activities, shares local cultural knowledge, monitors trail and weather conditions, and prioritizes the safety and well-being of the group.
Depending on the group size and logistical requirements, your trekking team may include:
- Lead Guide (Sirdar): Leads the group, manages the itinerary, coordinates logistics, and oversees safety.
- Assistant Guide: Supports trekkers and assists with daily trekking arrangements.
- Porters: Carry designated baggage and trekking supplies according to applicable load limits.
For groups of four or more participants, the planned team consists of one lead guide, one assistant guide, and two porters. Staffing arrangements may vary according to group size, route requirements, and the final trip plan.
Participants are expected to follow the guide’s instructions and inform the guide promptly of any health concerns or difficulties.
Alpinist Club arranges appropriate insurance and necessary equipment for its trekking staff according to the requirements of the trip.
Accommodation in Kathmandu
Before and after the trek, you will stay in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu, subject to availability and the confirmed package. Your hotel will be confirmed according to availability at the time of booking.
Meals in Kathmandu
A welcome dinner is arranged on your first evening in Kathmandu, and a farewell meal is provided upon your return, according to the package inclusions.
Kathmandu also offers a wide range of restaurants where you can explore traditional Nepali cuisine and international dishes. Additional meals and drinks outside the package inclusions are at your own expense.
Accommodation During the Pikey Peak Trek
During the trek, you will stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges, generally in twin-sharing rooms. Facilities vary by village, and rooms are usually simple but comfortable.
Private bathrooms and hot showers may be available at some lodges for an additional charge. In more remote areas, facilities may be basic, with shared bathrooms and limited electricity or internet access.
Meals During the Trek
Meals are prepared and served by the tea houses and lodges along the route. A typical daily menu includes:
- Breakfast: Eggs, toast, chapati, Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, butter, jam, tea, or coffee.
- Lunch: A main meal such as dal bhat, noodles, rice, potatoes, or other locally available dishes.
- Dinner: Soup, a main course, and fruit when available, with tea or coffee.
Meal options depend on the location and availability of ingredients. Please inform Alpinist Club of any dietary requirements before departure.
Tea and coffee are provided according to the package inclusions. Additional drinks, snacks, and personal food items may incur extra costs.
Drinking Water
Carry reusable water bottles throughout the trek. Water can be treated using suitable purification tablets or filters, following your guide’s advice.
Refill your bottles with safely treated water whenever possible and avoid single-use plastic bottles to help protect the natural environment.
Physical Fitness and Trek Preparation
The Pikey Peak Trek involves walking on forest trails, village paths, hillsides, and mountain terrain. A reasonable level of fitness and stamina is important, particularly for the ascent to Pikey Peak at 4,068 meters.
- We recommend preparing several weeks or months before departure by:
- Walking regularly on varied terrain.
- Practicing hikes lasting four to six hours.
- Improving cardiovascular fitness through walking, cycling, or swimming.
- Building leg strength and balance.
- Practicing with a light daypack.
Previous trekking experience is beneficial but may not be essential for travelers with good fitness and preparation. The required fitness level depends on the confirmed itinerary and daily walking hours.
Medical Check-Up
A medical check-up before departure is recommended, especially if you have existing health concerns or have not exercised regularly. Discuss the itinerary, walking demands, and maximum altitude with your doctor.
A dental check-up may also be useful before traveling to remote mountain areas, where access to medical facilities can be limited. Bring sufficient supplies of any personal medication you require.
Group Size
The Pikey Peak Trek is generally organized for groups of 2–10 participants, depending on the selected departure and availability.
Small groups allow greater flexibility, more personal attention from the guide, and opportunities to experience local culture at a comfortable pace. Private departures can also be arranged upon request.
The final group size and staff arrangements will be confirmed before booking.
Safety During the Trek
Your safety is a priority throughout the Pikey Peak Trek. Our guides monitor weather forecasts, trail conditions, and the well-being of participants to help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
The guide may adjust the daily itinerary when weather or other conditions require changes. Participants should follow safety instructions and inform the guide promptly of any concerns.
Basic first-aid supplies are recommended, and emergency arrangements will depend on the route, available communication coverage, and local conditions. Travelers should have suitable travel insurance covering trekking activities and emergency evacuation at the maximum altitude of the itinerary.
Responsible Travel
The Pikey Peak region is rich in natural beauty and Sherpa cultural heritage. Respect local traditions, ask permission before photographing people, follow monastery customs, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Carry your rubbish with you, use refillable water bottles, and support local lodges and businesses wherever possible. Responsible travel helps protect the region’s environment and supports the communities that make this trek special.
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