A common Pikey Peak trek takes five to six days, including road travel. The route climbs through forest and villages to a high camp, then a sunrise climb to the summit.
The usual week
Most operators run Pikey Peak as a seven-day circuit from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, with the summit on day five. A four-day version skips some of the walking. Heights and times below are approximate and depend on the exact route.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Phaplu
Fly to Phaplu, which sits at roughly 2,400 m, or take a jeep for seven to eight hours. Phaplu has a hospital, an airstrip, shops and the only ATM on the route, so this is where to withdraw rupees.
Day 2: Phaplu to Ringmo
A pleasant five to six hour walk through pine and rhododendron forest, with a few stream crossings. The first night is in a village lodge.
Day 3: Ringmo to Junbesi
Around six hours of walking, with two river crossings and views of Numbur. Junbesi, at about 2,700 m, is the largest village on the route and a good place to rest.
Day 4: Junbesi to Jasmane Bhanjyang
A steady climb to a ridge camp at about 3,020 m with two basic lodges. There is no electricity, so carry a power bank. A morning visit to Thupten Choling is possible before you leave Junbesi.
Day 5: Pikey Peak and Loding
Start before dawn with a head torch, climb for an hour or two to the summit at about 4,065 m, watch the sunrise and walk down to Loding. The summit stay is short, because the wind can be cold.
Packing for a lodge trek
You do not need camping equipment. A sleeping bag is useful because lodge blankets are thin, and a warm hat and gloves for the summit. Pack a head torch for the pre-dawn climb, a rain jacket and light trekking boots. A small bag of snacks is also welcome.
Culture along the way
In Junbesi, you can visit the monastery and watch monks at prayer. Remove shoes before entering, walk clockwise and ask before taking photographs. In the evening, many lodges serve local yak cheese and butter tea, which are worth tasting.
Day 6 and 7: return
A long walk to Phaplu, then a flight or jeep to Kathmandu. Allow a spare day in case of flight delays. See the difficulty guide.
