Pikey Peak Trekking

Trip Itinerary

Trip FAQs

• Food on the Pikey Peak Trek
  Since Pikey Peak is a newer trekking destination, the lodges are not as developed as those on more popular trekking routes. However, the locals are dedicated to providing the best possible food and hospitality. The tea houses, run by local families, offer a variety of Western and Nepali meals, including Dal Bhat, pasta, spaghetti, different bread items, and different potato dishes. Many lodge owners have years of experience and can prepare meals even in challenging conditions. This trek gives you a chance to enjoy authentic local food. Fresh vegetables and other essentials are brought from nearby villages or markets, while some items are pre-packaged goods from Kathmandu. Milk served on the trek is usually powder, so it’s best to ask for hot milk when drinking it. To stay safe, avoid raw food, fresh salads, or fruit salads unless they have been soaked in iodine water or you are confident your hands are clean.
• Safe drinking water on the Pikey Peak Trek
  You can collect water from taps and purify it using iodine tablets, other water purification tablets, or a Steripen. Another option is to buy boiled water from tea houses in the morning, afternoon, or evening—boiled water does not require further purification. Avoid drinking water directly from taps, jars, or streams, as it may cause stomach issues. If purchasing bottled water, always check the expiration date before drinking.
• Accommodations like on the Pikey Peak Trek
  Most tea houses provide double rooms with two separate beds. The rooms are usually small but offer enough space to move around and include a comfortable mattress with clean bedding. Due to limited lodges in the area, there may be times when we need to sleep in dormitories, but we always do our best to find private rooms for you. Some lodges have a warm dining area with a centrally heated chimney to keep trekkers cozy in the evenings. Lodge owners provide locks for room doors, so always lock your door when leaving your room.
• Medical facilities and first aid on the trek?
  Each trekker should bring a personal first aid kit with general medications prescribed by their doctor. It is important to carry a full course of any prescribed medication, as running out mid-trek can create serious issues. Our Guide carries a first aid kit with general medicines, which he shares with the group, including porters, in case of emergencies. The nearest district hospital is in Phaplu, which offers general treatments and surgeries. Some villages along the route have small health posts and medical stores that provide basic treatment.
• Physically fitness for the Pikey Peak Trek
  You don’t need to be an athlete or mountaineer to complete the trek. As long as you are in good physical shape, you can complete the journey without prior trekking experience. However, preparing in advance will help make the trek easier and more enjoyable. To build endurance, practice jogging or climbing stairs for at least an hour daily before the trek. This will help you adjust to the physical demands of the journey.
• How difficult is the Pikey Peak Trek?
  The Pikey Peak Trek is considered moderately difficult compared to other treks in the Khumbu Region. While it follows an off-the-beaten-path route, the trail is mostly gradual, with only a few steep uphill sections. This makes it accessible to most trekkers, including beginners. No prior trekking experience or special training is required. On average, trekkers walk 5-6 hours per day, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,065 meters over a 6-7 day period.
• Best Seasons for the Pikey Peak Trek
  Pikey Peak Trekking is possible almost year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. However, summer can be challenging due to the monsoon season, which brings heavy rainfall. Below is a breakdown of what to expect in each season.
  Spring (March–May): Spring is one of the best times for the Pikey Peak Trek, with mild temperatures and clear skies. The trails become lush and vibrant with blooming rhododendrons, creating a picturesque landscape. The panoramic views of the Himalayas are breathtaking. However, late spring may bring occasional pre-monsoon showers in the afternoon.
  Autumn (September–November): Autumn is another ideal season, offering pleasant temperatures, crystal-clear skies, and spectacular mountain views. The landscapes turn golden with autumn foliage, enhancing the trek’s beauty. Additionally, major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar take place during this time, providing a rich cultural experience.
  Winter (December–February): Winter trekking can be challenging due to freezing temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, Pikey Peak Trek is still manageable with proper gear. The season offers stunning views of snow-covered landscapes, clear blue skies, and a peaceful trekking experience with fewer crowds.
  Summer/Monsoon (June–August): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making trails muddy and slippery, with an increased presence of leeches. Despite these challenges, the lush green landscapes and blooming wildflowers create a beautiful setting. This season also provides a great opportunity to interact with local Yak herders and observe their traditional way of life.
• The Mobile network and WiFi access on the Pikey Peak Trekking Region?
  In most areas of the lower Solukhumbu Region, mobile networks are available if the weather is stable. Many lodges also provide telephone services and WiFi, especially in Junbesi and Phaplu.
• How reliable are flights to Phaplu?
  Only a few flights operate to Phaplu daily, especially during peak tourist seasons. The airport is not very busy, with just 2-5 flights per day, depending on passenger demand and weather conditions. There is no fixed flight schedule for Phaplu. During the peak trekking seasons (Spring: March- May and Autumn: October-November), flights to Phaplu and Lukla operate from Ramechhap (Manthali) instead of Kathmandu due to air traffic congestion. In other seasons, flights depart from Kathmandu. If flying from Ramechhap, we must leave Kathmandu either the night before or very early in the morning (around 1 a.m.). The drive to Ramechhap takes about five hours. Flights are frequently delayed or canceled due to weather conditions. The flight takes 25-30 minutes from Kathmandu and 15-20 minutes from Ramechhap. It is a scenic flight with breathtaking Himalayan views. When flying to Phaplu, the best mountain views are on the left side, while the right side offers great views when returning to Kathmandu.
• What transportation options are available for the Pikey Peak Trek?
  Due to the unpredictable flight schedule to Phaplu, we prefer overland transportation. We do not use shared transport but instead provide a private Jeep or Bus based on the group size. The drive from Kathmandu to Dhap is about 230 km, while Phaplu is around 264 km away. It takes approximately 7-9 hours to reach Dhap and 8-10 hours to reach Phaplu. The journey passes through beautiful landscapes and river valleys, offering a glimpse into rural Nepalese life.
• The payment process for the trek
  To confirm your trek, we require a 25% deposit of the total trip cost at least 60 days before your trip begins. The remaining balance must be paid upon your arrival in Kathmandu. We will provide you with bank details for the deposit transfer.
• The travel insurance requirement for the Pikey Peak Trek?
  Yes, travel insurance is mandatory and must cover medical expenses and emergency helicopter evacuations. Helicopter rescues in Nepal are expensive, with a minimum cost of USD 7,500, and payment is required before the helicopter can take off. To ensure your safety, please purchase travel insurance and provide us with a copy of your policy before the trek begins.
• The tipping policy for trekking staff
  We care deeply about the welfare of our staff, including guides, assistant guides, cooks, and porters. We ensure fair wages, proper insurance, and the necessary clothing for all our team members, as they are the backbone of Nepal’s trekking industry. In Nepal, it is customary to tip trekking staff at the end of the trip as a way of showing appreciation for their hard work. While tipping is not mandatory, it is expected, and the staff will sincerely appreciate it.