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Bhanubhakta Nachhiring

Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek

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duration-icon

Trip Duration

20 Days
destination

Destination

Nepal
max-alt-icon

Max. Altitude

5,545 m.
difficulty-icon

Trip Difficulty

Moderate
group-size

Group Size

1-12
transportation

Transportation

Bus , Flight
accommodation

Accommodation

Hotel/Teahouse
activity-icon

Activity

Trekking
meals

Meals

All Inclusive
start_end

Start / End

Kathmandu
region

Region

Everest
best-season

Best Season

Spring & Autumn
Inquiry
Customize this Trip
Bhanubhakta Nachhiring

Need Help? Talk to Expert

+977 9764792172

Trip Overview

The Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek is one of those journey that gives you a completely new perspective on the Everest region, and it’s very beautiful. You begin in the incredibly peaceful hills of the Solu region rather than jumping straight into the busy main trails. Travelling from these area is a lot more peaceful, passing through authentic Sherpa Village, lush green forest, ancient monasteries, and prayer flags.

Walking along expansive ridges with extensive vistas of the mountains feels more authentic and being at a higher height adds to this sense of serenity. Before the intensity increases when one enters into higher Himalayan regions, most trekkers I know will appreciate the time spent earlier to their journey when beginning their trek at lower elevations.

Pikey peak

The most amazing thing about the entire trek has to be arriving at Pikey Peak. This mountain is very, very well known for its sunrises and that’s not a fluke either. If you have a nice clear morning, the horizon is completely filled with these massive mountains and some of them as far away as Mt. Everest. Watching the first rays of light hit the mountains is something you will remember forever, it is like the whole range begins to be illuminated. After you have been able to take in some of that tranquility, the trail continues north, eventually connecting with the classic route to Mt. Everest in the Khumbu region.

In general, the trek normally takes anywhere from about 18 to 20 days depending on personal pacing and the number of days you need to acclimatize (which is super important). After driving from Kathmandu down into the lower regions, you have a number of days of trekking through forests and valleys, until you reach the high altitude trekking regions. The high point of your trek will be Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 meters. However, most people also make the trek to Kala Patthar , an additional 191 meters in elevation at 5,545 meters to get the best view of Mt. Everest.

Everest

As far as the accommodation goes, you will find yourself sleeping in local guesthouses (called tea houses) that are very simple yet comfortable in Sherpa-family-run lodges. The trekking is moderately to mildly difficult due to high altitudes, with daily walking of about 5 to 7 hours. You don’t need to be an expert mountaineer or anything, but good fitness and thinking slow and steady will go far in helping you succeed. What makes this route particularly special is that you get the best of both worlds- the quieter, more remote part of the mountain and the historic path to the highest mountain in the world.

Best Time To Do Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek

Spring (March to May)

Spring is typically considered the best time to hike to the Everest Base Camp from Pikey Peak because during spring, temperatures begin to rise, and there seems to be no shortage of beautiful Himalayan views every day. The Rhododendron forests on lower elevations really thrive in this area from mid-March until late April each spring and their bright red, pink, and white blossoms saturate everything in the area with a feeling of vibrancy and renewal after the long, cold winter months.

The temperatures are generally warmer than during other times of the year, but if you are at higher elevations at night, it will definitely be cooler than normal depending on how hilly the trails you are hiking on are.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is usually considered the best time for people to visit the Everest region of Nepal, and that opinion is generally accurate. After the monsoon rains end and the dust gets washed away, the air is unbelievably clear and crisp and the mountain views are breathtaking.

From the summit of Pikey Peak, you will be able to see an endless panoramic view of mountains in all directions. The weather is very stable and nice as well, with mostly sunny days and cool evenings. All of this makes for perfect conditions for long trekking days and taking great photos.

Pikey Peak

Winter (December to February)

This time of year provides great opportunities for trekking but can be quite cold, especially at higher altitude. So only fewer people are on the trails, those who enjoy solitude may find winter to be an ideal time to hike. Although the views are beautiful on clear days, the presence of snow and freezing temperatures adds difficulty to hiking in the winter. Therefore, individuals planning to travel in winter must carry an adequate supply of warm clothing along with the ability to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Monsoon (June to August)

During this season, rainfall is frequent throughout Nepal in lower mountain regions as well as in lowland valleys. Due to heavy rainfall from monsoon storms, the trails become muddy and often the views are covered in dense clouds for several days, therefore, trekkers may face challenges when attempting to access their destination. But, lush greenery covers the entire landscape and there are very few people on the hiking trails. If you enjoy the peace and quiet of nature, the monsoon season may appeal to you, but you must also be prepared to wait out wet weather conditions and pack more carefully.

Highlights of Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek

  • Unique Two-in-One Trek: You get to hike two different trails: one is Pikey Peak with its beautiful peace and the other is a traditional Everest base camp route.
  • Less Crowded Route: The trek along Pikey Peak has far fewer trekkers than the standard Everest Base Camp Trail; as such you will enjoy a far greater level of solitude and tranquillity.
  • Breathtaking Panoramas: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Makalu & Lhotse along with all the other peaks of the Sherpani Mountains during your sunrise hike at Pikey Peak.
  • Real Sherpa Villages: Experience real Sherpa culture & village life in places like Junbesi, Pangboche and Namche Bazzar.
  • Cultural Immersion: You will visit ancient Buddhist monasteries plus experience the local way of life by walking past mani walls, chortens and colourful prayer flags.
  • Everest Base Camp Experience: You will stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain while gazing at the magnificence of the Khumbu Glacier.
  • Kala Patthar Sunrise: You will see Mount Everest, as well as its surrounding mountain peaks at 5,545 m from Kala Patthar. This is the most photographed place on the map.

Itinerary of Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek

When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, we will transfer you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. Consider taking a little time today to get over the long plane ride and recover from jet-lag. If you feel like moving around a little, you might explore the Thamel area, it really is an amazing place to explore with many small restaurants, shops, and absorb lots of energy from the people working there. Your guide will normally meet with you today, brief you about your trip, check your equipment for correctness, and answer any other questions you might have. Essentially, today is a day for rest before beginning your adventure in Nepal!

activity-small

Activity: Arrival

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Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft.

meals-small

Meal: Dinner

accommodation-small

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Includes/Excludes

What is included?

  • Permits and Fees: All necessary permits for the Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek, such as the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality and Sagarmatha National Park permits.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation throughout the trek, typically in teahouses or lodges. This usually includes accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek in 3 star hotel on BB plan. (twin sharing basis)
  • Meals: Most packages will include three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek and also includes two times hot beverage (in breakfast and lunch) and seasonal fruits after dinner.
  • Transportation: Ground transportation from Kathmandu to the trailhead (usually Dhap) and back from Lukla in a Flight.
  • Guide and Porters: Services of an experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porters to carry luggage.(one porter for two trekkers) This includes their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
  • First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit.
  • Trekking Map: A map of the trekking route.
  • Equipment: Duffle Bag, Sleeping Bag (if necessary)
  • Pick up drop-off : airport pick up and drop-off by private vehicle.

What is not included?

  • International Flights: International airfare to and from Nepal is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance that covers emergency rescue and evacuation is not included, and you’ll be expected to have your own.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses for extra meals, drinks, snacks, charging devices, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and other personal costs are not included.
  • Nepal Visa Fees: Entry visa fees for Nepal.
  • Additional Accommodation and Meals: If you choose to extend your stay in Nepal, the cost of additional accommodation and at kathmandu meals will not be included.
  • Rescue and Evacuation: Any costs related to emergency evacuation or rescues are not covered.
  • Trekking Gear: Personal trekking equipment, such as hiking boots, down jackets, trekking poles, and other gear are not included.
  • Tips: Tips for guides and porters are not included and are left to your discretion.

Trip Map of Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek

Trip Information

Trek Difficulty

The Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek is typically classified as a moderate to difficult trek however, it is not a technical climb. There is no rope work involved, but there will be significant demands on your endurance and mental toughness to continue walking for many consecutive days over varied terrain, such as hills, large forests, and rocky mountain trails. While some areas will provide gentle terrain, numerous long climbs will deplete your energy for many days, especially as you travel at higher elevations where the air becomes less dense.

You will typically spend between 5 and 7 hours a day walking, occasionally you may spend longer than that, but the length of each day depends on how far apart the villages are from one another. There are a lot of uphill and downhill sections of the trail, and once you reach the high altitude areas of the Everest Region, you may notice yourself moving much slower and therefore, most trekkers take breaks more frequently than they expected.

Everest

Altitude is undoubtedly the largest factor to contend with on this expedition. You will be progressively ascending from the Solu area to the Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and then continuing to hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m), which provides arguably the most spectacular view of the mountains.

At these high altitudes it is critical that your body can acclimatize itself properly. To this end, an effective itinerary that provides multiple rest days will go a long way toward assisting your body in adjusting to these remarkable elevations while minimizing your chances of suffering from altitude sickness.

Although you do not need to be an exceptional athlete, being in good physical condition will make your experience on the trek much more enjoyable. If you can comfortably walk through 2-3 hours of continuous walking on a daily basis or performed some other similar prep work – such as hiking, jogging or walking long distances. What is essential is that you take your time, stay well-hydrated and listen to your body and these small differences can have a significant impact once on location.

Cultural Experience along the way

Another aspect of the Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek is the experience of seeing the people and getting to know their cultures, ways of life, and homes. From the quietest of small towns located in the Solu area to the most densely populated areas found near Mount Everest (Khumbu), this track provides an ideal record of the Sherpa people. They are known for their strength, courage, kindness, and hospitality.

As you hike from one location to another, you will find Sherpa people working in the fields, carrying supplies up steep slopes, and greeting you with a friendly “namaste.” You will find numerous small stone and wooden homes wrapped with prayer flags that reflect how spirituality and everyday living co-exist.

Everest

Along this trek are many Buddhist monasteries as well as numerous world-renowned Buddhist prayer sites such as Mani walls and Gompas, where we can see the spiritual aspect of the mountains. Prayer flags, which are traditionally displayed at all these locations, fly freely and are meant to carry blessings over the mountains and you may see monks sitting quietly with their scriptures or performing other religious rituals. Even small actions such walking by sacred areas or entering a monastery for a moment or two are enough to provide you with the experience of the sacred.

You can also find additional communities, such as the Tamang and the Rai people, as you go further down the trail. You may run into many children running around, being curious and playful, along the way. The elders in the community may even share their mountain life stories with you, if you stop long enough to listen. Staying at the family-run tea houses is a highlight as well because it allows you to experience their typical day-to-day activities.

Whether you are enjoying a warm meal, sharing stories with other trekkers, or warming your hands by the fire after a long day on the trail, these are the experiences that will be engraved in your memory forever. The trek not only takes you through incredible scenery but also gives you a glimpse into the ever-present culture of these people that has existed for generations.

 Accommodation and Meal on the Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek

The Pikey Peak to Everest base camp trek features such a good variety of tea houses that have a true feel for living in the mountains. The tea houses around Pikey Peak are generally small and owned by local families. The rooms typically have very basic furnishings, with very few extra things such as blankets or heating options. Some of the tea houses have a shared bathroom, while at others you may need to use the outhouse. Be sure to take a travel towel with you and your own toiletries.

Even though they are basic, these tea houses are very homey in atmosphere, and the owners will go out of their way to make sure you feel comfortable. After hiking through the quiet forests all day to trek up to the base of the Everest, the most enjoyable way to experience the mountains is in a small, cozy tea house.

Everest

Heading north into the Khumbu region and approaching Everest Base camp, levels of development increase. In larger towns like Namche Bazaar and one of the tea houses, tea houses in general tend to have more rooms, so you might have your own, and sometimes you can even get a hot shower if you’re willing to pay for it. People tend together around the little wood stove in the dining area of the tea houses, so dining there is the best way to socialize with other trekkers.

Once you get above Dingboche/Gorak Shep, things once again become basic due to the altitude, your room may be cramped and have little or no water. You really begin to realize you are on the edge of the world there!

The food served in tea houses is hearty, home-cooked, and designed to provide you with lots of energy. You’ll find a wide variety of dishes available to you in the lower elevations near Pikey Peak, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), vegetable curry, and all types of noodles or fried rice. The breakfast options are typically porridge, egg, or pancakes with large cups of tea or coffee to drink with it.

Everest base camp

One of the things I loved most about the entire experience was communal dining. No matter how great the lodge is, you will be at the same table with other trekkers from all over the country sharing stories and sharing a hot meal together.

While the accommodations are basic, the warmth of the people plus the incredible views of the mountains right outside the window is something that is going to leave you with memories forever. Experience the thrill of an adventure and an authentic Himalayan lifestyle that only comes from staying in the valley instead of an expensive hotel in a city.

Permits and Documentation

If you are going to do the Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek, before hitting the trail you have to complete some important paperwork. The first order of business is to get your Sagarmatha National Park Permit (SNP). The SNP is required for the entire trek as it crosses through the Sagarmatha National Park, it is also home of Everest and all the other giant peaks. Again, the SNP fee goes toward the wildlife and conservation of the National Park, yay!

A Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality/KPLRM Permit is another important permit that you will need as you trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal, this permit helps develop the area by supporting repairs to schools and trail maintenance, etc. You can get your KPLRM permit in Kathmandu or at local offices in Lukla. You must keep your KPLRM and SNP permits accessible inside your backpack as there are many checkpoints located on the trail and officers will ask to see the permits.

If the service is provided by the Epic Trek Nepal, we will handle the paperwork and provide licensed guides for you to ensure safety and will arrange for you to receive both your SNP and KPLRM permits in advance, which makes your trip much less complicated and ensures that these documents are official. Furthermore, having your permits will help support the local communities and retain the beauty of the mountains.

Cancellation Policy for Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek

At Epic Trek Nepal, we understand the changes in plan unexpectedly. That is why we designed it to be fair and clear.

Cancellation Notice: By any reason, if you need to cancel tour trek then please inform us at least 15 days before your scheduled Trek start date.

Administrative Fee: When you cancel the trek, 25% fee will be reduced from the total cost of trek as administrative charge. This fee covers the planning and organizational cost we’ve already done for your trip.

Non-Refundable Period: If the cancellation happen less than 7 days before the trek start date, no refund will be provided but by looking at the situation and if we feel the reason of cancelation is valid then the amount will be refunded after deducting 70% of total trek amount. In such time we have already submitted the cost and reserved the spots for you.

Documentation Support: We know insurance claim can be important. In-case if you cancel, we would gladly provide the necessary document such as receipts to help with your insurance process.

Unused Accommodation: Please note that if your trek is cancel due to personal reasons, illness or bad weather, refunds for unused accommodation are not available.

If you have questions or want to discuss your situation, our team is here to help. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to guiding you safely on your Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek.

What to Pack for Pikey Peak to Everest Base Camp Trek:

Here are the essential gears Trek:

Bag pack:

  • Comfortable backpack with adjustable straps (40-70 liters)

Footwear’s:

  • Hiking boots with ankle support.
  • Lightweight camp shoes or tennis shoes for relaxing.

Clothing:

  • Moisture-wicking base layers (long-sleeve and short-sleeve).
  • Insulating layers: Heavy fleece or down jacket.
  • Waterproof shell with a hood.
  • Lightweight windbreaker.
  • Waterproof pants.
  • Sturdy trekking pants (2 pairs).
  • Comfortable hiking shorts.
  • Moisture-wicking underwear (5 pairs).
  • Long underwear (2 sets).
  • Multiple pairs of moisture-wicking hiking socks (7 pairs).
  • Warm thermal socks (1 pair).

Accessories:

  • Trekking poles (collapsible for stability).
  • Lightweight headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
  • Durable water bottles (2 liters).
  • Gloves (light inner gloves and insulated wool or down mittens/gloves).
  • UV-protective sunglasses.
  • Broad-brimmed hat for sun protection.
  • Neck gaiter.
  • Wool hat or balaclava for colder weather.

Sun Protection:

  • High SPF sunscreen.
  • Moisturizing lip balm with SPF.
  • Towels and Toiletries
  • Quick-drying travel Towel
  • Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap etc.)

Documents and Money:

  • Copy of passport and identification
  • Sufficient local currency (ATM on the way aren’t work always)

Snacks and Hydration:

  • High-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars, chocolates).
  • Water purification tablets or a portable water purifier.

Navigation and Communication:

  • Trekking map or guidebook.
  • Mobile phone with a local SIM card and emergency contact numbers.

Emergency Item:

  • Comprehensive kit including basic medications and blister treatment (Guides will carry).
  • Lightweight emergency shelter or space blanket.
  • Duct tape for quick gear repairs.
  • Plastic bags for organizing and protecting items.
  • Trash bags for carrying out waste.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s mostly a moderate-to-difficult trek, you do not have to be super fit, but you also need to walk and shouldn’t mind gradually getting higher in altitude. This will give you some easy-going slightly inclined walking sections, but the steeper climbs around Pikey Peak, which is the lowest point on this whole trail, and then again at a higher elevation in Khumbu will make your overall trek more difficult.

The best times to do this trek are definitely during the spring (March – May) and the fall (September – November). The spring season is awesome, because the rhododendrons will be blooming and the weather will be nice and mild. The fall season offers absolutely beautiful, clear sky conditions and superb views of the mountains. Winter trekking is doable as long as you are not bothered by cold temperatures and the monsoon season can be quite challenging, as the trails will be slippery and there will be a lot of cloudy conditions due to the frequent rain.

Yes, absolutely! As long as you’re in fairly good physical shape and don’t mind walking multiple hours each day throughout the journey, you can do it!

The majority of your accommodation  will be tea houses or community-run lodges along the route to your trekking destination. The accommodations themselves are very simple, but they will be great and warm!

In most tea houses you will be provided with adequate meals every day of your stay breakfast, lunch and dinner. While at a tea house, you can expect mainly dal bhat types of meals: (rice, lentils) but there will also be a few varieties of noodles, soups and momos, (steamed dumplings) and assorted types of rice dishes.

You will couple of appropriate permits (i.e. TIMS Card and Sagarmatha N.P. Permit) so you won’t have to worry about it as these permits will be checked throughout the trek separately at different checkpoints on the route.

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