Pikey Peak trek is a chance to explore lesser-known villages and the wilder places of the lower Everest region. Pikey Peak or Pikey Danda is most popular for its sunrise and sunset views. From here you get a magnificent view of the peaks north of the Kathmandu valley and the Himalayan range which includes Mt. Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjungha, Annapurna, Gauri Shankar, Lhotse, Lhotseshar, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Numbur, Khatang, Karyalung, Shishapangma, Mera peak, and Thamserku. Pikey Peak has become one of the popular trekking trails in the Everest region, probably because Pikey Peak is one of the lowest places from where you get a clear view of Mt. Everest, 8848m.
After reaching Pikey Peak the trail leads us to the large Sherpa village of Junbesi where there is the Thubten Choling Monastery, which has been a first contact point for many Tibetan refugees and remains home to a large population of Tibetan Buddhists.
Pikey Dudhkunda trek can only be done by camping untill 2022 but recently opened some lodges therefore now it is possible to do lodge trek. The trail climbs high in the mountains to a place called DudhKunda, which literally means “milk lake”. The DudhKunda is a holy lake with white waters, surrounded by the mountains of the Southern Solukhumbu and directly under the Numbur Himal Range, locally known as Shorong Yul Lha, protector of the Solu Khumbu region. It is a famous pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus and for adventurous trekkers. During full-moon nights in August, pilgrims and jhankris (Shaman Priests) hold a week-long celebration here. At other times you are unlikely to meet anyone on this rarely traveled trail.
Trekkers using the lower Everest Trail may also pass through this region. It is the perfect place for nature lovers to visit. This area has many diverse ethnic groups living here such as Sherpas, Khaling Rais, Tamangs, Magars, and Gurungs, and this gives a great insight into their lifestyle. You will get to see the unique culture of the real Sherpa people, who represent a large percentage of porters and guides for treks and expeditions. (Some people think Sherpa means porter… but that is incorrect. Sherpa is an ethnic group that hails from the Everest region and has become famous for its bravery in the mountains. The hospitality of the locals is one of the most heartwarming experiences one can come across in this area. It’s common to stop to chat or they may entice you with something delicious to eat.
Apart from culture, Pikey Peak Dudhkunda trekking is popular for the wonderful Himalayan scenery and the flowering Rhododendron trees, magnolias, and wild orchids. Authentic Sherpa villages and Sherpas culture, Buddhist monasteries, and beautiful lakes are the main attractions of Pikey Dudhkunda trek. On the trail to Dudh Kunda, you will pass through Phaplu, Taksindu, and Beni, or Sunbesi Beni where you will see some breathtaking panoramic mountain views.
Highlights
- Pikey Peak gives you of the best viewpoints from the lower Everest region.
- Expansive stunning views from Gauri Shankar to Mt. Kanchenjunga.
- Everest, Makalu, and Numbur Himal
- DudhKunda Lake a high alpine lake and pilgrimage site.
- Combination of wilderness camping and nights in local lodges.
- Experience true Sherpa hospitality and culture in authentic villages.
- Learn about Himalayan Buddhism at the Thubten Choling and Taksindu monasteries.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to Hotel.
- Day 02sightseeing in Kathmandu & prepare for trek.
- Day 03Kathmandu to Jhapre drive by jeep 7-8 hrs.
- Day 04Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp, 7-8 hrs.
- Day 05Pikey Base Camp go to Pikey peak and trek to Jase Bhanjyang, 4-5 hrs.
- Day 06Jase Bhangjyang to Junbesi, 6-7 hrs.
- Day 07Junbesi to Taksindu-La 6-7 hrs.
- Day 08Taksindu- la to Sarsar Beni, 7-8 hrs.
- Day 09Hike to Dudhkunda 4561m and back to Beni, 5-6 hrs.
- Day 10Sarsar Beni to Taksindu, 6.-7 hrs.
- Day 11Visit Taksindu Monastery in the morning and drive to Phaplu, 2hrs.
- Day 12Phaplu to Kathmandu by flight
- Day 13Sightseeing in Kathmandu
- Day 14Transfer to airport for departure
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport/Hotel/Airport picks up and drops.
- Accommodations in Kathmandu.
- Necessary Permit & National Park fees.
- Kathmandu to Jhapre by charter Jeep.
- Flight ticket from Phaplu to Kathmandu.
- 3 times meals breakfast, Lunch, dinner and 3 times tea or coffee during thelodge trek.
- Guesthouse / lodge accommodation during the trek.
- The required trekking staff.
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance for the trekking staff.
- Goverment taxes
- Service charge
Cost Excludes
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Your travel insurance (compulsory).
- International Airfare.
- Nepal entry visa fee.
- Entry permit to visit historical places in Kathmandu.
- Personal expenses such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks and mineral water.
- Personal trekking equipments.
- Tips for trekking staffs and driver etc.
- Helicopter rescue in case of emergency and medical expenses.
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on price Includes section.
Useful info
Best Season
This area receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, so we do not recommend trekking during this period. The best times to trek are in the spring season (mid-February to May) or autumn (October to mid-December). Winter is extremely cold, but the skies are generally clear, offering crystal-clear views. The Rhododendrons bloom in spring, typically in March and April, and this should be considered when planning your travel, as the forests are truly stunning when in flower.