Pike Hill Trek - 8 days

• Panoramic views of the majestic Mount Everest, Numbur Himal, and other towering peaks that dominate the skyline, are breathtaking.
• Get deep insights into the rich culture, customs, and daily life of traditional Sherpa villages and local communities.
• Enjoy serene and tranquil trekking with much fewer crowds, which enables a closer-to-nature experience.
• Observe the varied and breathtaking views of lush forests, emerald alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrain changing after every step of this journey.
• Watch an amazing sunrise view from the top of Pikey Peak when the snow-capped peaks turn into magical colors due to the first light of day.
• Enjoy the good Sherpa food and international food, freshly prepared with love in these teahouses on your route, adding a culinary highlight to your trek.
• The ancient monasteries-like historic one at Thupten Choeling Monastery is worth visiting, observing the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region, and maybe participating in the local ceremonies.
• Enjoy different flora and fauna on the trail, rhododendron flowers in bright red, enjoying the natural beauty.

The Pikey Hill (Pikey Peak) trek is an 8-day hike that explores the lower part of the Everest region with options for both cultural exploration and amazing scenery and Himalayan views. Besides beginning in Kathmandu, they go through beautiful Sherpa country, sub-tropical forests and some high ridges. Every single day offers a new experience covering the cultural touristic site in Kathmandu and driving to Dhap Bazaar to gradually ascend through typical Nepali villages Jhapre, Sigane, Taklung Danda etc. Moving deeper up the trail, one gets to Pikey Peak Base Camp, which offers a great view of other mountain ranges.

The last but one day, to reach Pikey Peak, the highest point of the trek, itself, offers you sunrise, view of Mount Everest (8,848m/29,032ft), Numbur Himal(6,000m/19,685ft), and other mountain ranges. The trek down to Phaplu and then driving around in Kathmandu means the end to this truly inspiring journey. During the journey, there will be overnight stay at the teahouse and lodge, to get a real feel of the genuine Sherpa Culture and their way of living. This categorised as moderately strenuous trek thus making it suitable for those in search of relatively less trodden paths but incredible views of mountains for which Nepal is famous for.

How does your trip to Pike Hill start and end?

As you arrive in Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), your journey commences. An early morning drive to Dhap Bazar, following the winding roads along the Sunkoshi River, you'll trek towards Dhap Bazaar and Jhapre. By then, you pass through charming villages, surrounded by lush greenery and terraced fileds along with interacting with the locals. Challenging terrain but breathtaking views makes all the journey's toughness worth everything. Highlight of the adventure, Pikey Peak. You'll witness the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayan range. Having your packed lunch, you'll enjoy the mesmerizing looks of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam. Everything is so beautiful that you would never want to return back. However, you will be almost to an end and start descending back up to Junbesi. Exploring the main attractions, Thupten Choeling Monastery, you will have your way back to Phaplu and a final drive to Kathmandu will end your perfect 8 days Pike Hill trek.

Altitude Distance Coverage of Pike Hill Trek

Best season/ time for Pikey Hill

Still over time, the question of the best time for this journey doesn’t arise, if one is interested and ready to take risks. But, as per Yeti Hikes, the optimum time, the best season/ time for 8 days of Pikey Hill journey is spring and autumn. The approximate time when the weather and temperature are worth context traveling around Nepal, spring and autumn in the go to season for the adventure.

• Spring (March-May)

The average day temperature is 10°C to 15°C (50 °F to 59 °F) for low levels of altitude and 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) at night. With that, you will get to witness growth of flora, rhododendrons, and other wild flowers that grow very fast particularly in the lowland. With it, you will be able to observe the increased amount of different wildlife with chances of encountering Himalayan Tahr and Musk Deer and different birds. You will be able to experience a major Buddhist festival, the Buddha Jayanti, and enjoy the lively painted monasteries, cultural festivals of the region such as Dashain, Tihar and experience the farming practices and the lifestyle that occurs with change of seasons. The trails are comparatively managed in this season and sometimes light showers may occur. Till now, the villages will appear cleaner, and you will be able to directly see Mount Everest(8,848m/29,032ft), Lhotse(8,516m/27,940ft), Ama Dablam(6,812m/22,349ft), and many other great mountains.

• Autumn (September-November)

Autumn has day temperatures throughout the region ranging from 10 °C to 20 °C and night temperatures of about 0 °C to 10 °C in low altitudes. Wildlife seems busy, good sights are visible, Himalayan Tahr in winter and other types of birds present here are visible. The sky is obvious and one can easily see some of the biggest mountains, for instance Mount Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. From a cultural point of view, autumn is quite extraordinary in the area, specifically the occasions of colors of the festival with great pleasure. The terrain of the trails is slightly more manageable to navigate, and to a large extent, workable even during this time, which is why it is the ideal time to trek and explore the area. It can be ‘’more of a shower’’ as long as it is not very frequent and does not pose great problems to prevent the people from going out.

Hence, the spring and autumn are the best seasons for Pike Peak. It is because the temperatures are moderate, and good weather offers good views of the mountains. During the monsoon period, there will be many cases of rainfall that will make the tracts steep and the incidences of slippage and landslide high, in addition, visibility will also be affected. Still, the winter season has very low temperatures, often snowfall and bad climate which makes the trekking difficult, and in some cases could even be lethal. 

Accommodation during the Pikey Hill Trekking

• Kathmandu Accommodation 

In total you will be spending 48 hours in the specified hotel with en-suite facilities, the hotel being very comfortable at 3 star standard for hotels in Thamel – the tourist district. Hotels include:

• • Lo Mustang Hotel
  • Ramada Encore Hotel
  • Moonlight Hotel
  • Thamel Park Hotel

Your package consists of a shared room or a room for two and a welcome and farewell dinner. All of our rooms are en-suite and include a TV and sufficient storage space for all your luggage. If you want to be alone or you desire to make everyone come with you, you can easily opt for a 4-5 star hotel at extra charges.

• Pikey Hill Accommodation during the trek

Likewise, on the Pikey Hill, also called Pikey Peak trek, many tea houses and lodges exist for trekkers en route. They provide the basics, like the dormitory or private rooms with a bathroom on the shared basis. There are generally established common features such facilities which provide bedding, hot shower, and heating in the eating and living area, where trekkers can conveniently rest and interact after their treks. Few of these dining areas are local and international cuisines which become a good opportunity for trekkers to taste the Sherpa foods.

Such teahouses exist at different villages on the trek including Jhapre, Dhap and of course Pikey Peak Base Camp, where the traveler can rest and acclimatize. Thus, trekkers can taste the colors of villages that they come along and get comfortable with theа hospitality of locals having a chance to take a break in a teahouse wherever they are on a trail.

Food and Beverage options during the trek

You'll experience Food and Beverage options during the 8 days Pike Hill Trek served at different teahouses. 

Depending on the menu, most of the time it may not be possible to get a variety you should carry along with your own bottled water for drinking, energy bars, nuts, chocolates and biscuits. Tropical alcoholic drinks are also served but discouraged because they can lead to development of AMS and dehydration.

Toilet/ Bathroom facilities during the Pikey Hill Trek

The Pikey Peak hike is a great exciting activity highlighting the Himalaya ranges that also includes Mt. Everest. The 8-day-long trek makes its way along with your journey through beautiful sceneries, charming villages, and an essence of the Sherpa culture. Tea houses or lodges in basically all accommodations on the route provide ample basic services for comfortable and memorable expeditions for the trekkers. Below is a detailed description of the toilet and bathroom facilities you can expect during the trek:

Toilets

Lower regions (e.g., Jhapre, Dhap)

• Modern Flush Toilets: 

In these areas, teahouses are likely to offer more modern toilet facilities with flush systems. These are similar to what you might be used to in urban areas.

• Shared Facilities: 

Toilets are typically shared among guests staying at the teahouse.

Higher regions (e.g., Pikey Peak Base Camp)

• Squat Toilets:

Going higher up, the conditions of toilets worsen. You're likely to find squat toilets, shared, if you are not into that kind of thing, it might be a unique experience.

• Outdoor Toilets:

In some remotest parts, you get outdoor toilets, meaning in a separate place away from the main building.

Bathrooms

Lower regions (e.g., Jhapre, Dhap)

• Hot Showers:

Many tea houses even offer hot showers, highly appreciated after a day of hiking.

• Private/Shared Facilities: 

Private bathrooms may be attached to your room in some teahouses, while the majority will have shared facilities.

Higher regions (e.g., Pikey Peak Base Camp)

• Basic Bathing Facilities:

The bathrooms become very basic at higher altitudes. You can expect shared bath areas where hot water is available in buckets for bathing.

• Limited Hot Water:

As the location is pretty remote, hot water may be limited. It is advisable to inquire about the availability of hot showers from the teahouse.

General Tips

• Bring Essentials

It's a good idea to bring personal toiletries, including soap, toilet paper, and a quick-dry towel.

• Stay Hygienic

Use hand sanitizer regularly, especially before meals and after using the bathroom.

• Be Prepared for Variation

Facilities can vary greatly depending on the location and the teahouse, so it's best to be flexible and prepared for different levels of comfort.

How secure is it to go for Pikey Peak Trekking?

Pikey Peak Trekking is secure with proper preparation and caution and also can be a safe and rewarding experience.

Safety Considerations

• Altitude
• Weather
• Trail Conditions
• Local Support
• Health

The trek gains a height of up to 4067 meters ( 13,366 feet ) at the highest point. It is important to acclimatize well in order not to suffer altitude sickness. Prerequisite measures should be taken. It is unlikely that a person suddenly decides to climb a high mountain without considering that his/her body will essentially have to adjust to the altitude. That they include such things as headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

High altitude weather is highly unpredictable and can change very quickly within a short time period. It is necessary to follow the weather in advance and dress warmer as the higher the position the colder the climate. It is suggested to dress in layers so you are able to undo some of them during a hike. Ban season protection including your rain gear and extra wearing clothes even if the day seems sunny when starting hiking.

The trails are rather easy to follow, however, they can be rather stiff and stony at the same time. There’s also a need to get good trekking boots and poles, which will aid our balance. It is also necessary also to be careful and take time when approaching the sensitive areas of the trail. It helps to remain alert and stick to the trail in order to avoid injuries.

Services are available at the remotes areas including tea houses, lodges and inns along the trail. It is rather safe if you keep abreast with the conditions at the park and consider having a guide if you are a novice. Many special and historical places can be visited with the help of local guides who have knowledge about all their surroundings.

Make sure you have the insurance cover for travelling, particularly the trail and if you need to be airlifted. Always have a rudimentary first-aid kit, along with any medications needed to treat a condition. One should also have contingency measures in case of an emergency and locate the hospitals and clinics en-route a trip.

Tips for a Safe Trek

• Acclimatize
• Stay Hydrated
• Listen to your body
• Travel with a Guide

It is advisable to spend a couple of days in Kathmandu or some other lower altitude to acclimatize before heading for the trek. You can also have some additional days of acclimatization during the trek In cases where the days on the trek itself are not enough to minimize risks of altitude sickness.

To avoid Altitude Sickness one should ensure to take enough water to drink as dehydration stands out to be one major indicator of altitude sickness. Other products that should be restricted from your diet plan include alcohol and caffeine, as they deter your body from being fully hydrated. There is always safe water in most places along a trek, considering that one can stoop to use hydration packs and water bottles with a filtration system. Remember the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness(AMS) and if you feel any of the symptoms, retracing is advised. Always avoid going to the point of exhaustion; better be harmless than be dead.

In case of a novice hiker, do not hesitate to arrange for a local guide to help when a hiker feels stuck mid-hike. Apart from that, guides also play the role of providing understanding about local knowledge, culture and history if the trekking route is within the guide’s locality. Finally, we at Yeti Hikes like to attach experienced guides and porters to provide additional safeguard and assistance during your journey. On the journey, they can help guide you to the location or control any situation that may occur on the trail. In fact, it becomes extremely difficult to speak within these regions thus you should carry a satellite phone or GPS in order to get help in a time of emergency. With these measures in place, the Pikey Peak trek shall be as much fun as it ought to be, and as safe as can be.

How to prevent altitude sickness (AMS) during the Pikey Peak Trek?

Acute mountain sickness (AMS), is therefore the first menace to every traveler. Prevention is possible, however, many solutions greatly reduce it enough to justify their existence.

The common symptoms of AMS are as follows:

• Headache.
• Nausea and Vomiting.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue.
• Loss of Appetite.
• Difficulty in Sleep.
• Increase in Heart Rate.
• Swelled Body Parts.

Severe AMS can lead to life-threatening conditions and complications like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

Avoiding it is crucial, but some effective preventions (strategies) can minimize it.

• Proper Acclimatization
• Stay Hydrated
• Nutrition
• Physical stability and medications
• Monitor your body

Travel Insurance for 8 days Pike Hill Trek

The trekking routes are literally off-beat and have poor trail access and again transport accessibility is also again poor. Small injuries are normal every day but there are so many accidental injuries as a stand alone and then there are devastating conditions or fatalities. Therefore, there is a requirement to purchase traveling insurance because of such places and only minimum medical experience. For possibly severe and severe injuries that may necessitate evacuation to Kathmandu, it takes much time for the road networks, therefore, roadways carriage, trucking insurance but for life threatening conditions it has to be airways – helicopter and airplane insurance.

Why is it important?

• High-altitude Coverage

The Everest Base Camp reaches an altitude of over 4,065 meters (13, 337 FT) at Pikey Peak, so you need insurance that covers trekking above 4,000 meters.

• Medical Expenses & Evacuation

In circumstances such as severe nausea, high altitude illness, accident or any other illnesses which require medical attention. You don’t have a choice than to be evacuated through a helicopter hence makes it mandatory that your insurance should cater for emergency medical treatment and evacuation. Because of the terrain on the trek, it is the quickest and safest way of moving the injured across through a helicopter.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption

If you fall sick, get an injury or suffer an assault or in situations like floods or landslides forcing you to cancel, shorten or change your trek in any way, ensure your insurance covers cancellation.

• Lost or Delayed Baggage

Trekking involves traveling with essential gear. Insurance should cover lost or delayed baggage, especially if you lose crucial items like trekking gear or documents.

• Personal Liability

The following coverage will keep you covered in the event of an accident that leads to damage of your property or injury to other people while on the trek.

• Repatriation

In the unlikely event of death or severe medical conditions, your insurance should cover the costs of repatriation back to your home country.

Recommended Providers

Many insurance providers offer travel insurance tailored to high-altitude trekking in Nepal, such as:

• World Nomads
• InsureMyTrip
• Global Rescue
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Required Documents and Permits for 8 days Pikey Hill 

The 8 day Pikey Hill Trek in Nepal requires the following important documents and permits. 

To embark on this adventure, here's a breakdown of the licenses you'll need:

Passport and Visa

• Valid passport for at least six months validity and a Nepal tourist visa is required to visit Nepal. In other cases, the visa can be availed at Tribhuvan International Airport of Nepal.
• For a 8 day trek, a visa valid for 30 days is recommended because it costs about US$ 50.

Travel Insurance

• You need travel insurance with trekking at higher altitude included. So, it is advisable to always possess a photocopy of your insurance policy and emergency numbers for instant use.

Medical Certificate

It is necessary because some may request a medical certificate to confirm that you do not have any chronic diseases that might harm you in the further journey.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

• You'll need this permit to enter the Sagarmatha National Park.
• Cost: US$30 per person.

Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP)

• You'll need this to enter Gaurishankar Conservation Area.
• Cost: US$30 per person.

Trekking Information Management System (TIMS)

• A TIMS card is absolutely necessary for trekking in Nepal and has its priority.
• Cost: US$17 per person.

Documents Required to Apply Permit Applications:

• A clear passport-size scanned copy of the passport has a validity of at least six months. 
• Passport-sized photos as per requirements.
• Trekking Itinerary Details.
• Cash (Nepalese Rupees) for permit fees.
• Additional documents are required as specified by the permit office or trekking agency.

You do need to secure these permits through a recognized trekking company and one you should inquire with the company to confirm if all necessary documentation is in place for the intended trek.

On the Permits and Document page, you will find more information about permits and documents.

Phones and Gadgets charging

Trek to Pikey Peak can be best done with little preparation as can phone charging. Finally, charging services are offered by most teahouses though at an additional cost. Therefore, it is advisable to take along a large portable battery charger (power bank). Just bring necessary adapters, two-pin or three-pin depending on the available outlets and the finest quality cables. When not needed, use low brightness and shut other applications you don’t require so as to conserve battery. And do not forget the spare batteries for torch and camera to capture the moments that you wanna shoot and other gadgets include GPS device, portable speaker, fitness tracker, satellite phone and the rest. These things can be taken along or purchased from Kathmandu.

Internet and Wifi-availability along the Pike Hill trek

During the Pikey Peak trek, staying connected requires choosing the right mobile service provider and internet packages.

These are some of the following options available:

• Local SIM Cards

You can easily purchase local SIM cards around airport areas and shops, but you'll need to present a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.

• Popular and Roaming Packages

Ncell, NTC, and Airlink SIM provide packages. If you prefer to keep your home SIM, get help from your guide for international roaming packages. However, roaming charges can be expensive.

• Pocket Wi-Fi Rentals

You can rent or buy a portable Wi-Fi device in Kathmandu. This device provides internet access for multiple devices.

Extra Expenses for 8 days Pike Hill

Nevertheless, other than the tips, it is recommended that you have a little extra pocket money for buying some non-digital miscellaneous items such as snacks and other contents. As for what you would like to do, it is basic to have a free amount to buy souvenirs or to have some celebrations once the treking is done.

Outline Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Day 2: Drive to Dhap Bazaar
Day 3: Trek from Dhap Bazaar to Jhapre
Day 4: Trek from Jhapre to Pikey Base Camp
Day 5: Trek to Jase Bhanjyang via Pikey Peak
Day 6: Trek from Jase Bhanjyang to Junbesi
Day 7: Trek from Junbesi to Phalpu
Day 8: Drive from Phalphu to Kathmandu via Salleri

• All airport pick up drop by private vehicle - for both international and domestic flights.
• Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant.
• Twin/double sharing accommodation in BB in Kathmandu.
• Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu with private vehicle.
• Trekkers' Information Management System, TIMS card.
• A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking, well-trained, Government-licensed guide. The price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
• 02 guests to 01 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment.
• We provide an assistant guide, his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance walking with a group to support where necessary as per the group size.
• Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking period.
• Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
• Safe drinking water.
• Yeti Hikes's sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirt, cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
• Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).
• Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate-twice daily during the trek-a very useful way to check AMS symptoms. This helps to make sure that your trek is in the safest hands possible.
• One-hour complimentary spa/massage in Kathmandu after the trek.
• All the applicable government and local taxes as per the itinerary.

• The fees associated with your Nepal visa.
• All international air fares to and from Kathmandu.
• Lunch and supper in Kathmandu.
• Insurance for helicopter evacuation, as well as personal travel and health insurance.
• Extra nights of accommodation, lunch, and dinner in the city may be required in the event of an early arrival or late departure, as well as an early return from a mountain or trekking excursion for any reason, exceeding the specified itinerary timeframe. We are able to assist you in securing additional nights of lodging.
• Your personal expenses, including laundry, baggage charges, phone calls, battery recharges, bar and beverage bills, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold showers and an additional attendant, are as follows.
• The tips for the trekking personnel and drivers.
• Additional expenses that arise as a result of flight delays, strikes, weather conditions, or any other event beyond our control.

For a Pike Hill Trek, you’ll need to pack efficiently to stay comfortable and prepared for the range of weather and trail conditions. Here’s a list of essential items:

Clothing

1. Base Layers

   • Thermal tops and bottoms (for warmth at night).
   • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (2-3, quick-dry fabric).
   • Lightweight trekking pants (convertible into shorts if possible).

2. Insulating Layers

   • Fleece jacket or sweater.
   • Insulated down jacket (for colder nights and higher altitudes).

3. Outer Layers

   • Waterproof and windproof jacket.
   • Waterproof pants.

4. Hiking Socks

   • Wool or synthetic socks (3-4 pairs).
   • Liner socks (optional, to prevent blisters).

5. Accessories

   • Hat (for sun protection).
   • Beanie or warm hat (for higher altitudes).
   • Buff or scarf (to protect against wind and dust).
   • Gloves (both lightweight and insulated if possible).

Footwear

1. Hiking Boots
   • Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots (well-broken-in).
2. Camp Shoes
   • Lightweight sandals or camp shoes for resting in the evenings.

Backpacks

1. Daypack (20-30L)
   • For essentials like snacks, water, and rain gear.
2. Duffel Bag (if using porters)
   • You may need a duffel for the bulk of your gear if you’re hiring porters.

Trekking Gear

1. Trekking Poles

   • Helpful for balance and reducing stress on knees.

2. Sleeping Bag

   • Rated for temperatures below freezing (around -10°C/14°F).

3. Water Bottles

   • Reusable bottles or a hydration bladder (2-3 liters capacity).

4. Water Purification

   • Tablets, drops, or a portable filter to avoid purchasing bottled water.

5. Headlamp

   • With extra batteries (essential for early starts or evening walks).

6. Sunglasses

   • UV protection to safeguard against strong sunlight at altitude.

7. Trekking Map and Compass

   • Optional, but can help you follow along with the route.

Toiletries

1. Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
2. Lip Balm (with SPF)
3. Toilet Paper
4. Wet Wipes
5. Hand Sanitizer
6. Biodegradable Soap/Shampoo
7. Toothbrush and Toothpaste

First Aid & Medication

1. Personal Medication

   • Bring a sufficient supply of any prescribed medications.

2. Basic First Aid Kit

   • Painkillers, blister care (like moleskin), band-aids, and antiseptic cream.

3. Altitude Sickness Medication

   • Such as acetazolamide (consult your doctor before taking).

Snacks and Energy Foods

1. High-Energy Snacks
   • Protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, or energy gels for extra fuel on the trail.

Electronics

1. Camera/Phone

   • For capturing memories.

2. Portable Charger/Power Bank

   • Charging points may be scarce and expensive.

3. Spare Batteries

   • Cold weather can drain batteries quickly.

Miscellaneous

1. Money

   • Carry enough cash for food, charging, and tips in remote areas.

2. Trekking Permits and Passport Copies

   • Ensure you have copies of your TIMS and ACAP permits, as well as your passport.

3. Small Locks

   • For your bags.

Packing wisely can make a significant difference on this Pike Hill Trek so focus on essentials and try to keep your load manageable. Safe travels!