Pikey Peak Trek Difficulty & Guide

Welcome to our article, where we are going to explore more about Pikey Peak Trek Difficulties Factors. It will serve as a guide to your Pikey Peak Trek which will be crucial for your journey.

Pikey Peak is an isolated but beautiful peak in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal. It lies in the remote area of the Everest region that is far from the city’s modernization and hustle and bustle. The Pikey Peak has an altitude of 4,068 meters. It is also a stunning vantage point. You can witness the breathtaking views of the landscapes and mountain panoramas, including Mount Everest. The trails are off-beat and serene. It is a unique journey than the commercialized treks of Nepal.

The Pikey Peak trek takes you through subtropical forests to alpine meadows and icy landscapes. Similarly, you traverse traditional Sherpa settlements, ancient monasteries, and gompas. So, you will get to immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences. Hiking to Pikey Peak is also an adventure. You must overcome steep trails and narrow ridges to get to the top. But the magnificent views will greet you once you get to the top. The Pikey Peak Trek is a beautiful adventure that is enriching and rewarding. To know more, make sure you read until the end. Now without further ado, let us explore more about Pikey Peak!

Best Highlights of the Trek

• Easily accessible and short trek destination of Khumbu region. 
• Trek on the quiet and off-beat trails while witnessing diverse biodiversity. 
• Traverse through dense subtropical forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and firs to alpine meadows and glaciers. 
• Conquer the summit of Pikey Peak at 4,065 meters. 
• Witness spectacular mountain panoramas of Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and many more. 
• Visit traditional settlements, ancient monasteries, and gompas.
• Experience the rich Sherpa culture, traditions, and lifestyle. 

Pikey Peak Trek Route

Trekking Route

During the Pikey Peak Trek, you will climb up to an elevation of 4,065 meters. The average walking duration per day is 5 to 6 hours. Similarly, you must cover a distance of 14 to 18 km, depending on the day’s destination. You will begin with a scenic drive from Kathmandu (1,290 meters) to Dhap (2,850 meters) on the winding road of Araniko Highway. It takes 7 to 8 hours drive to reach the beautiful Dhap bazaar. The following day, you will begin your trek from Dhap to Jhapre (2,250 meters). It is an uphill ascend through dense subtropical forests. Likewise, you will pass by several rivers and waterfalls.

The trail further ascends towards Lhamju Danda and then to Bhulbhule. En route, you will pass through traditional villages like Takung Danda and Loding. Likewise, you will also come across ancient monasteries, mani walls, and stupas before reaching the Pikey Peak Base Camp (3,640 meters). A hike to the Pikey Peak (4,065 meters) from the base camp is a challenging adventure. You can witness the entire Himalayan range along with some of the world’s highest mountains from the vantage point. Then, you will descend to the Loding via base camp. 

From Loding, you will descend to Junbesi (2,700 meters). You have to make a steep descent through subtropical forests. En route, you will come across beautiful Sherpa villages and the age-old monasteries of Thupten Choling and Thongmon Monastery. The trail again descends from here onwards to Salleri (2,960 meters). It is relatively easy to descend through subtropical forest trails. You will have to make a short ascent to reach Phaplu, the lower region of Solukhumbu. From Salleri, you will drive back to Kathmandu.

Pikey Peak Trek Elevation

To provide you with a clear picture of the elevation gain during the Pikey Peak Trek, take a look at our seven days itinerary: 

Pikey Peak Trek Difficulty

Trek distance and elevation 

Pikey Peak Trek covers a distance of 50 to 60 km, depending on the route. During the trek, you will cover an average distance of 14 to 18 km per day. Similarly, the walking hours vary from 5 to 6 hours a day. It is physically demanding and requires significant strength and stamina. However, there is no need for prior experience. You must have a reasonable health and fitness level. 

Another factor that makes the Pikey Peak difficult is the elevation. Pikey Peak is a high-altitude trek that takes you to a maximum elevation of 4,065 meters. The higher you go, the more challenging the ascend becomes. The trails also become rougher and steeper. It is especially difficult for beginners without prior experience. Additionally, the weather also becomes unpredictable at higher elevations. It can change at any time, making the trek a difficult journey.

Remote Location

The Pikey Peak lies in the remote and isolated areas of the Khumbu region. As a result, the trails are secluded and lack proper infrastructure. The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dhap. You will then gradually start trekking through the dense subtropical forest trails. Similarly, you must trek past steep paths, ridges, suspension bridges, alpine pastures, and glaciers. In comparison to the other commercial trekking routes, it is less crowded and quieter. Due to its remote location, the facilities are also limited. You will only find accommodations with basic facilities and limited amenities.

Altitude Sickness

The high elevation also exposes trekkers to altitude-related sickness. The risk of altitude sickness begins after ascending to an altitude above 3000 meters. This is because the oxygen level in the atmosphere becomes thinner, and the air pressure reduces. Trekkers start to experience various symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue, insomnia, difficulty in breathing, etc. Trekkers must take altitude sickness seriously, as it can turn fatal quickly. They must take proper precautions and acclimatization to deal with altitude sickness.

Factors to Consider For Pikey Peak

Physical Fitness 

You must assess your physical fitness before joining the Pikey Peak Trek. Although it is a relatively easy trekking journey, you must have good health and fitness levels. You must be able to ascend and descend on varied terrains for 5 to 6 hours every day on average. It is best to exercise and train a few months before the journey to increase your physical strength, stamina, and endurance. Cardio exercises such as running, jogging, cycling, and swimming are especially beneficial. These exercises help to boost your physical fitness. 

Prior Experience

Pikey Peak is suitable for beginners as there is no need for prior experience. However, having an experience is helpful. If you are a beginner, you must physically and mentally prepare for the journey. Undertake exercises to boost your fitness level and research about the journey. You will also need strong determination and mental resilience to join the trek. 

Altitude And Unpredictable Weather

One of the factors you need to consider during Pikey Peak Trek is the altitude. As you ascend to a higher altitude, the trek becomes more challenging. You may also start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Hence, you must take proper acclimatization and rest days to adapt to the growing elevation. The weather also starts to become more unpredictable and volatile. Due to the rapid change in weather, the temperature also fluctuates. Hence, you need to carry adequate clothing and proper trekking gear. 

Trail Conditions 

The trail leading to the Pikey Peak is off-beat and isolated. The peak itself lies in a remote area. Hence, you must research and familiarize yourself with the trail conditions for the trek. The trails go through forest pathways to alpine meadows and icy paths. Similarly, you must trek on diverse terrains, including steep and rocky ones. The trail leading to the top of the Pikey Peak includes some of the most steeper sections. So, prepare for the trek accordingly.

Accommodation Available

Most accommodations along the Pikey Peak Trek route are teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses. They are often fully packed during peak season, i.e., spring and autumn. So, if you are considering taking the trek at these times, book the accommodation in advance. They may not be available if you want to book them on the spot. There is a high chance that you may have to share rooms with others. Additionally, you may not find the accommodations to your liking. So, always check the availability of accommodation and book them before the journey. 

How to avoid Altitude Sickness during Pikey Peak Trek

Altitude sickness is common among trekkers during high-altitude ascensions. The reason? The higher you go, the oxygen in the atmosphere becomes thinner, and the air pressure reduces. As a result, it becomes harder for trekkers to breathe. The lack of oxygen also causes trekkers to experience various altitude-related symptoms. It includes headache, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, swelling, etc. 

Altitude sickness can become fatal if it is not treated promptly. The mild form is Acute mountain sickness (AMS). The severe forms are High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). 

You can take a few precautions and steps that trekkers can take to avoid or minimize the risk of altitude sickness during the Pikey Peak Trek. They are as follows: 

Gradual climb: Do not rush while ascending to a higher elevation. Gradually ascend above 3000 meters. It allows your body to get used to the growing altitude and changing surroundings. It is especially advised for beginners.

Acclimatize: You must acclimatize during the high-altitude trek. Acclimatization is crucial for preventing altitude sickness. It refers to taking a rest day to allow your body to adapt to the high altitude. You must take the acclimatization day above 3000 meters. 

Stay hydrated: During the trek, remember to keep your body hydrated at all times. Drinking water is not only for quenching your thirst but also to avoid altitude-related sickness. Drink at least 2 to 4 liters of water every day. 

Eat nutritious diets: It is important to take a healthy diet to keep yourself energized throughout the trek. You must intake a high-carb and rich-protein diet. A healthy and balanced diet helps immensely in preventing altitude sickness. 

Avoid alcohol and caffeine: While drinking plenty of fluid is important to prevent altitude drink, avoid excessive intake of alcoholic and caffeine beverages. Alcohol and caffeine dehydrate your body instead of hydrating it. Similarly, these beverages disrupt your sleep cycle and affect acclimatization. 

Descend: If you start showing severe symptoms of altitude sickness that do not subside, you must immediately descend to a lower altitude region. In worst cases, they might need immediate evacuation and medical treatment. 

Essential Packing List for Pikey Peak Trek

Clothing and Shoes

• Thermal shirts and leggings
• Long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts
• Windproof/ waterproof jacket
• Fleece and down jacket
• Lightweight trekking pants and warm trousers
• Moisture-wicking inner wears
• Warm hat, gloves, and scarves
• Gaiters
• Moisture-wicking trekking socks and warm socks
• Comfortable and sturdy trekking boots and sandals

Equipment and Gear

• 40 – 50 liters backpack
• 4-season sleeping bags
• Trekking pole
• Headlamp
• Thermal water bottle
• Extra batteries

Medical Necessities

• Band-aids, painkillers, antiseptic creams, and altitude sickness medications like acetazolamide and diamox. 

Miscellaneous

• Toiletries (soaps, toothpaste, toothbrush, wet wipes, towels, etc.)
• Cameras
• Maps and GPS
• Other personal items

Why is a Guide Necessary for Pikey Peak Trek

The new rule change, as of April 2023, has made it mandatory to hire a licensed guide for Pikey Peak Trek. However, the mandatory rule is not the only reason to hire a guide. It is crucial to ensure your safety during the trek. A guide also helps you enhance your trek experience and immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. 

Guides help you navigate difficult terrain and ensure that you are on the right path. Licensed guides have proper training in first aid. Hence, they can provide crucial assistance during emergencies. Similarly, the guides are usually locals from the region. Hence, they have a deeper knowledge of the local history, culture, and customs. They will provide local expertise and explore hidden areas only known to the locals. Guides also help you bridge the communication gap with the locals in full cultural engagement. 

The guides will help you to navigate the rustic and remote trails of Pikey Peak Trek. They will ensure that you stay on your path without losing your way. Likewise, they will keep you motivated throughout the trek and check your well-being. In emergencies, your guide will take the proper course of action to ensure your safety. They will also provide deeper cultural experience with their expert and in-depth knowledge. Therefore, a licensed and experienced guide is necessary for Pikey Peak. 

Nepal Alternative Treks offers 7 Days Pikey Peak Trek package along with a licensed and experienced local guide. Our package starts at USD 800 per person. For more information on trekking in Nepal, visit our website! 

FAQs