Any necessary permits?
Pikey Peak is considered one of the permit-free trekking destinations in Nepal, but that's not entirely true. You will need to acquire three permits, Sagarmatha National Park Permit, the Gaurishankar conservation area permit, and a local-level permit to make your Pikey Peak trek successful.
Since the Solu region comes under the Sagarmatha National Park, you must obtain a permit to enter the area. The cost for the permit is around NPR 3,000 or USD $30 per person.
Similarly, the trail to Pikey Peak falls under the Gauri Shankar conservation area, so you need to obtain a permit that will cost an average of NPR 2,000 (around USD 17) per person.
Additionally, you will need a local-level permit costing about NPR 2,000 (around USD 17) per person.
What about the difficulties and challenges during the trek?
Strong wind
Though the distance from Pikey base camp and pikey peak is around 5 km, that can be covered in about 1 hour. The strong, cold wind in that region has added a level of difficulty to this trek. So, while making preparations, you will need to pack things to cope with this crisp and freezing wind.
Steep trails
The trail of this region is composed of some well-managed trails, rocky terrains, and some steep ascents and descents. Experienced hikers may not have any difficulty walking those steep, secluded, and rocky trails, but novices can find it challenging to hike for about 5 to 6 hours a day.
How to prepare yourself physically and mentally?
Trekking is a good opportunity for you to bring out the best of your physical fitness and check your mental endurance. However, to test these things, you just can't come for the trek with some luggage and a trek map in your hand. You have to remember that the trek will lead you to the mountains, which can be threatening when they are in an angry state.
So, being physically and mentally prepared is a must. For that, you can take some time out of your busy schedule to practice jogging, running, cardio exercise, and swimming before the trek.
Furthermore, you have to set the mind that trekking needs lots of draining hikes and adaptability in terms of accommodations and food. So, don't let your unusual expectations destroy your trekking fun.
Are accommodations and food included in the package?
Even though this trek is a newly discovered route and an off-the-beaten experience for the trekkers, the accommodations on the trail can be considered pretty resourceful and accessible.
Accommodation
Teahouses and lodges are the primary source of accommodations for this trek. But you cannot find proper options for luxurious hotels and cafes as this trail is yet to be developed.
Although the accommodations are limited, you will get the opportunity to be fresh and rejuvenate yourself from the exhaustion of all-day hiking by resting for a few hours or staying overnight.
Under the standard 7-day package of the Pikey Peak trek, you will be provided with the room on a shared basis. However, you don't have to worry about the quality of the room and services. The bed will be well-equipped with mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Additionally, you will be provided extra blankets if you are making this trek in winter or monsoon season.
Regarding the bathroom, you have to use the bathroom in the shared vicinity. This may be unusual to you but think about the different experiences you get from this trekking. During accommodations, you have the opportunity to interact with fellow trekkers and widen your friendship horizon. Furthermore, it is sure that the hospitality from the teahouse owners will keep your heart warm.
Food
Since this trail is inhabited by Sherpa and Tibetan communities, you will be able to cleanse your palate and taste a wide variety of regional food. However, the place is gaining more popularity, so tea houses and lodge owners have extended their menus and added other various cuisines, including Indian and Tibetan foods and other foreign specialties.
The standard package has covered all 3-time meals so you can be assured and don't have to worry about where to eat.
For breakfast: you can expect tea, coffee, lemon tea, eggs, cereals, cornflakes, pancakes, bread toast, soups, and porridge.
For lunch and dinner: You can enjoy the traditional Nepali Daal, Bhaat, Tarkari, Dhindo, Thakali Khana set, Sherpa specialities Rildok, other Tibetan-inspired cuisines like momos, chow mein, and many more.
However, if you feel like you can't adapt to the food, then you can request the teahouse owners to make variations in food. If they can, they will definitely make them for you. On top of that, the food has all three options: veg, nonveg, and vegan.
Checklist for Your Packing List
Although the trek is short, necessary preparations should be made beforehand to make the trek convenient. Usually, it is said that the packing or luggage should be lightweight, but don't forget the crucial things while making the luggage lightweight. Here is a list you can take reference from to make the necessary preparations.
Clothes
- Cozy, comfortable jackets and trousers with fleece
- fast-drying T-shirts
- Warm hat, gloves, and a buff or neck guard
- liners and hiking socks
- Windproof jackets
Shoes
- Well-made, cozy, and sturdy hiking boots
- For the evenings and relaxation days, wear lightweight sandals or hiking shoes.
- An additional pair of socks
Gears
- Trekking poles (collapsible and adjustable)
- Headlamp with additional battery
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Hydration system or bottle of water
- Eatables and protein bars
- Medication and a personal first-aid kit
- towel that dries quickly
Optional
- Toiletries (e.g., hand sanitizer, toothpaste, toothbrush, and biodegradable soap)
- High-SPF sunscreen with lip balm
- Repellent for insects
- Electronic gadget converter and portable charger
- Using a smartphone or camera to record memories
- Gaiters (to keep debris and snow out of boots)
- Portable water purifiers or water purifying tablets
- A bandana or buff to shield against dust and wind
- Snacks for trekking or comfort food
Travel Insurance
Arising of unavoidable circumstances, mishaps, and accidents is the normal part of trekking. So, if you want to stay on the safe side, then you must get insured yourself with the insurance policy.
When it comes to traveling with Marvel Adventure, travel insurance is mandatory because your safety is our top priority. In addition, the standard package of 7 days doesn't cover the travel insurance.
Therefore, the policy you take should be able to cover all of your medical expenses, evacuation costs, and other necessary expenses so that when such a situation arises, you don't have to panic.
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FAQs about Pikey peak trekking
Is Pikey peak trek one of the famous spots of Sir Edmund Hillary?
It is said that once Sir Edmund Hillary claimed Pikey Peak as his favorite spot to observe Mt. Everest.
Is the trek to Pikey Peak more famous for Everest rather than pikey peak itself?
The statement for this can be quite arguable. Many trekkers visit this place to immerse in the various mountain ranges, including Mt. Everest. However, some trekkers visit this place to enjoy the Sherpa temple at the peak. So the preference depends on the people themselves.
Can a novice do the trek to Pikey Peak?
Yes, both experienced and novice trekkers can go on the expedition of the Pikey trek. This trek spot lies at a low altitude with a great view of the Himalayan ranges.
What mountains can be seen from Pikey Peak?
Pikey Peak offers a spectacular view of various mountains like Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu, to the giants of midwest and western Nepal -Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Gaurishankar.
Why is Pikey Peak trek less crowded?
The trek is newly introduced and off the beaten trek from another mainstream trek, so it is usually less crowded.
Are there any other routes that can lead to Pikey Peak?
Yes, several other routes will lead you to Pikey Peak. to can make variations on the route by going from Khanding or starting the trek from Phaplu.
How long does trekking to Pikey Peak take?
The time depends upon the itinerary of the trek. You can complete the trek in 5 days, 7 days, or even 10 days, depending on your package and itinerary.
Where is Pikey Peak located?
It is located in the mesmerizing Lower Khumbu region of Nepal, in Solukhumbu District.
Can we go on an expedition to Everest base camp from the Pikey Trek?
You can choose to go on an expedition to the Everest base camp by taking the Salleri or Lukla route.
