Pikey Peak Trek: A 10-Day Adventure from Kathmandu

Starting and ending in Kathmandu, this 10-day trek takes you through Shivalaya and remote Sherpa villages, leading to the breathtaking summit of Pikey Peak, where you'll witness some of the best panoramic views of Everest and the Himalayas.

Overview

• Duration: 10 Days

• Start/End Point: Kathmandu

• Max Altitude: 4,065m (Pikey Peak)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Accommodation: Teahouses

• Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) & Autumn (Sept-Nov)

Trek Highlights

• Panoramic Everest Views: Stunning sunrise view from Pikey Peak, which even Sir Edmund Hillary called his favorite.

• Cultural Experience: Trek through Sherpa and Tamang villages, visit ancient monasteries, and experience traditional mountain life.

• Diverse Landscapes: Lush forests, yak pastures, ridges, and alpine terrain.

• Less Crowded: A quieter alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek with equally breathtaking scenery.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Shivalaya (1,790m) – Drive (7-8 hrs)

• Early morning jeep/bus from Kathmandu to Shivalaya via Jiri.

• Scenic drive through lush valleys, rivers, and terraced fields.

• Arrive at Shivalaya, a small village which our guide Padam calls home.

• Overnight at Kalo Patthar Lodge & Restaurant.

Day 2: Shivalaya to Jhapre (2,820m) – 6 hrs trek

• After a hearty breakfast we start trekking! The trail climbs gradually through forests and farmlands.

• Pass through remote villages with traditional Sherpa and Tamang houses.

• Reach Jhapre, a small settlement with monasteries and beautiful views of Everest.

• Overnight at a teahouse in Jhapre.

Day 3: Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp (3,640m) – 6 hrs trek

• The trail climbs steadily through rhododendron forests and yak pastures.

• Stunning views of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and more.

• Arrive at Pikey Base Camp, a simple teahouse area where the night is colder.

• Overnight at a teahouse at Pikey Base Camp.

Day 4: Pikey Base Camp to Pikey Peak (4,065m) to Loding (2,515m) – 7 hrs trek

• Early morning hike to Pikey Peak for sunrise – the best Everest view!

• 360-degree mountain panorama including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Annapurna, and more.

• Descend through forests and ridges to reach Loding.

• Overnight at a teahouse in Loding.

Day 5: Loding to Junbesi (2,700m) – 5 hrs trek

• A mix of forest trails and cultural villages.

• Visit the Thupten Choling Monastery, an important Buddhist site.

• Arrive at Junbesi, one of the most beautiful Sherpa villages.

• Overnight at a teahouse in Junbesi.

Day 6: Junbesi to Taksindu (2,960m) – 6 hrs trek

• Cross suspension bridges and walk through rhododendron forests.

• Gradual ascent to Taksindu La Pass (3,070m) with Everest views.

• Visit Taksindu Monastery, an ancient Sherpa monastery.

• Overnight at a teahouse in Taksindu.

Day 7: Taksindu to Phaplu (2,470m) – 5 hrs trek

• Trek downhill through forests and villages.

• Reach Phaplu, a small town with better accommodation and food options.

• Overnight at a teahouse in Phaplu.

Day 8: Phaplu to Shivalaya (1,790m) – Drive (5-6 hrs)

• Instead of heading straight to Kathmandu, drive back to Shivalaya for a relaxed journey.

• Enjoy the scenic mountain roads.

• Overnight at Kalo Patthar Lodge & Restaurant.

Day 9: Shivalaya to Kathmandu – Drive (7-8 hrs)

• Early morning jeep/bus back to Kathmandu.

• Check into your hotel and enjoy a hot shower and great food.

• Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu

• Relax or explore Kathmandu before heading to the airport.

Alternative Itineraries

• Shorter Option: Skip Junbesi and Taksindu, trek from Loding to Phaplu for a 7-day trek.

• Longer Option: Extend the trek to Dudh Kunda Lake for more adventure!

Packing List

• Warm layered clothing (cold at night)

• Hiking boots (broken in)

• Sleeping bag (teahouses provide blankets, but it gets cold)

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (strong sun at altitude)

• Trekking poles (helpful for descents)

• Water purification tablets (bottled water can be expensive)

• Basic medicine kit (for altitude, blisters, and stomach issues)

Final Thoughts

This trek is a fantastic alternative to Everest Base Camp, offering breathtaking views, rich culture, and fewer crowds. With Shivalaya included, you get an authentic trekking experience while staying at great local lodges - including Kalo Patthar Lodge & Restaurant