Pikey peak trek is a short yet remarkable trek in the lower Solukhumbu region of Nepal. The trek leads you to one of the best vantage points of the entire Solukhumbu region to view Mount Everest within 2-3 days. Without a doubt, the pikey peak trek can be considered a hidden gem of Solukhumbu that possesses an exquisite trail with a diverse landscape. The trail to pikey peak is not in the mainstream and is known by most trekkers compared to the other trails of the upper Solukhumbu region. Despite this fact, the Pikey peak trek has not failed to impress visitors with its serene trail full of mixed topography all around and spectacular 360-degree mountain views.
Moreover, the trail is said to have been one of the favorite trails of Edmund Hillary as a viewpoint of Mount Everest along with the wide perspective of the Himalayas.
Things to look forward to during the Pikey Peak Trek
One might not be expecting much while trekking to pikey peak as it is a short trek that can be completed in 4-5 days and there is not much information about the trail on the internet and social media. However, Pikey peak is one of the most underrated trekking destinations in Nepal which has all the elements from natural beauty, and magnificent sights of the Himalayas, to the unique lifestyle and culture of locals. To top this all, even the trail to Pikey peak is quite easy and undisturbed.
You can look forward to one of the epic sights of the World’s tallest peak Mount Everest during the trek. Situated at an elevation of 4067m, the top of the Pikey peak offers the majestic sight of mountains like; Mount Everest (8848m), Mount Kanchenjunga (8586m), Mount Makalu (8463m), Mount Lhotse (8414m), and many others.
Along with the stunning sights of the Himalayas, pikey peak is known for offering a majestic sunrise view. Most of the trekkers spend the night at Pikey base camp one day before and then ascend to the top of the pikey early in the morning the next day. You’ll get to witness the first ray of the sun turning from dark orange to yellow in between the giant peaks and layers of hills. The snow-peaked mountains changing their color with the rising sun is something that will leave you in awe of its beauty.
Similar to the upper side of the Solukhumbu region, the trail to Pikey peak is also filled with Sherpa villages and communities. Therefore, during your ascent and descent, you will be able to experience the traditional life of the Sherpa people and learn about their culture. The unique culture and lifestyle of the local community add even more color and fun to the entire trek and you can indeed look forward to it.
A lot of trekkers might hesitate to commence on the popular trekking trails of the region like; the Everest base camp trek and Gokyo lakes trek. As these are some of the most renowned trekking trails for trekkers around the globe and the destination that is packed almost every time of the year. Opposite such trekking destinations, the pikey peak trek presents trekkers with a very off-beaten and tranquil trail. If you’re seeking a trail with fewer people but is equally fulfilling and rewarding in terms of beauty and authenticity then, Pikey peak has it all.
The trail to the Pikey Peak Trek
Generally, from Kathmandu as a starting and ending point, the Pikey peak trek can be completed in 4-5 days depending on the speed of the trekkers. The trail is fun and leisurely with few uphills and downhills along the way. Overall, anyone in good physical health even without prior trekking experience can complete the journey to Pikey peak.
The trek initially starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Dhap which takes around 7-8 hours in total. You will get to enjoy the majestic sights of the mountains from the very first day on the drive toward Dhap. From Dhap, your walking excursion begins as you head to Jhapre. Jhapre is a small sherpa village that offers some magnificent sights of mountains, especially, looking out for the sunset view.
From Jhapre, your next stop will be the Pikey base camp situated at an elevation of 3640m. The trail from Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp is captivating with a desert-like landscape and the sight of a layer of hills on the way. One notable fact about the pikey peak trek is the view of hills and landscape it offers and you’ll undoubtedly notice it during the walk to the Pikey base camp.
The next day, you’ll hike to the top of the peak which takes around 2-4 hours of walking. It is all an uphill climb to the top of the peak that might be challenging for some but the view and the magnificent sight of the Himalayas from the top is worth all the climb. After relishing the sunrise view over the mountains, you can choose to descend on the same trail that you took to ascend. There is also an option for you to descend to Junbesi from where the trail to Everest base camp connects.
Best time to trek the Pikey Peak
Like any other trekking destination in Nepal, the Pikey peak trek is best when trekked in spring and autumn. Especially, if you want to enjoy the trail full of rhododendron trees and sunny days then, trekking in spring is highly recommended. If you want to play with snow and get a view of fully snow-covered peaks then, the beginning or end of winter might be an ideal time for you. You can also choose to trek during monsoon if you prefer greenery and flowers on your trail. The trek has a different yet beautiful side to offer throughout the year. However, spring and autumn offer the best weather along with clear skies and views of mountains during the trek.
