Pikey Peak Trek

Overview Itinerary Inclusion Exclusion

Trip Overview

Pikey Peak (4,065m) is one of Nepal's most rewarding short treks, located in the Solu region of eastern Nepal. Recently popularized as Sir Edmund Hillary's favorite viewpoint, Pikey Peak offers stunning sunrise views of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Numbur Himal without the crowds of the main Everest trail.

Named after a local deity "Pikey" of the Sherpa community, this trek is known for its spectacular mountain panorama, authentic Sherpa culture, and untouched rhododendron forests. Unlike the busy Everest Base Camp trek, Pikey Peak remains quiet and peaceful, making it perfect for trekkers with limited time.

The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dhap, then follows gentle trails through traditional Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and blooming rhododendron forests. The sunrise from Pikey Peak is unforgettable — Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga light up in golden hues.

Along the way, you'll visit Thubtenchoeling Monastery in Junbesi and Chiwong Monastery perched dramatically on a cliffside — two of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the Solu region.

This trek is ideal for beginners, families, or experienced trekkers looking for a short, cultural, and scenic Himalayan experience.

Best Seasons to Travel

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November) offer the best weather and clearest mountain view.

SEASONS	CONDITIONS
Autumn	Crystal clear skies, stable weather
Spring	Rhododendrons in full bloom, warmer days

Avoid: Summer monsoon (heavy rain, leeches) and winter (cold at high elevations).

Notes to Travelers

Who is this for? Beginners, families, and trekkers of all levels. No technical climbing experience required.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The highest point is 4,065m, so altitude sickness risk is low.

Physical Demands: Daily walking of 4-7 hours on mixed terrain of gentle slopes and occasional steep sections.

Required: TIMS card, local entry permit, and travel insurance (recommended).

Accommodation: Basic teahouses and lodges with local hospitality.

Inspiring Note

Pikey Peak is Sir Edmund Hillary's favorite viewpoint — and you'll understand why. Standing at 4,065m as the sunrise paints Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga in gold, you'll feel like you have the entire Himalaya to yourself. This short, sweet trek is the perfect introduction to Nepal's mountains, culture, and hospitality.

Highlights

✅ Sunrise at Pikey Peak (4,065m) – Sir Edmund Hillary's favorite viewpoint
✅ Panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga & Numbur Himal
✅ Visit Thubtenchoeling Monastery in Junbesi
✅ Visit dramatic cliff-side Chiwong Monastery
✅ Quiet, uncrowded trails – no crowds like Everest Base Camp
✅ Rhododendron forests – spectacular in spring
✅ Authentic Sherpa village experiences
✅ Short trek – perfect for 7-9 day itineraries
✅ Easy difficulty – suitable for beginners and families

Quick Reference Table

Feature	Detail
Highest Point	4,065 m (13,337 ft)
Location	Solu Region, Eastern Nepal
Difficulty	Easy to moderate
Duration	7-9 days
Best Seasons	March-May & October-November
Start Point	Dhap (drive from Kathmandu)
End Point	Phaplu (flight to Kathmandu)
Accommodation	Teahouses & lodges

Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to Hotel (1,300m)

Activity: Airport pickup and transfer to hotel.

Highlights: Rest, meet fellow trekkers, final gear check.
Day 2 : Drive to Dhap, Trek to Japre (2,920m),

Activity: Scenic drive to Dhap (approx. 6-8 hours), then short trek to Japre.

Highlights: Beautiful mountain drive, first taste of trekking, peaceful forest trails.
Day 3 : Trek from Japre to Pikey Base Camp (3,640m)

Activity: Gradual ascent through rhododendron and pine forests. Trails open up with mountain views.

Highlights: Stunning forest trails, first views of Everest and Numbur Himal, preparation for sunrise summit.
Day 4 : Sunrise at Pikey Peak (4,065m), Trek to Loding (2,515m)

Activity: Early morning hike to Pikey Peak for sunrise. Celebrate on the summit, then descend to Loding.

Highlights: Pikey Peak Sunrise – Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga glowing in golden light. Sir Edmund Hillary's favorite viewpoint.
Day 5 : Trek from Loding to Junbesi, Visit Thubtenchoeling Monastery

Activity: Gentle trek to Junbesi village, then visit the famous Thubtenchoeling Monastery.

Highlights: 🏯 Thubtenchoeling Monastery – one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Solu.
Day 6 : Trek from Junbesi to Taksindu (2,960m)

Activity: Gradual ascent through forests and farmlands to Taksindu.

Highlights: Beautiful mountain views, peaceful trails, traditional Sherpa settlements.
Day 7 : Trek from Taksindu to Phaplu, Visit Chiwong Monastery (2,459m)

Activity: Trek to Phaplu, then visit the dramatic cliff-side Chiwong Monastery.

Highlights: Chiwong Monastery – perched dramatically on a cliff edge with stunning valley views.
Day 8 : Flight from Phaplu to Kathmandu (1,400m)

Activity: Morning scenic flight from Phaplu to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel.

Highlights: Farewell to the mountains. Free afternoon for shopping or rest.
Day 9 : Final Departure

Activity: Airport transfer for departure flight.

Highlights: Safe journey home. Lifelong memories of Pikey Peak.