At 4,065m, Pikey Peak (Peaky Peak) offers what many consider the best sunrise view of Everest outside of Everest Base Camp itself. Unlike the crowded Poon Hill trek, Pikey Peak remains relatively undiscovered while offering views of 8 of the world's 14 highest peaks. Here's why it's becoming the top alternative for trekkers in 2025.
From the summit at dawn, you'll see these legendary mountains:
Best for: Those wanting a complete experience with cultural immersion
8-9 hour scenic drive through rural Nepal
4-5 hours through rhododendron forests with first mountain views
5-6 hour ascent with increasingly dramatic scenery
Early morning climb for sunrise, then descend through Sherpa villages
Visit ancient monasteries in this traditional Sherpa town
Gentle walk through forests and farmland
By jeep (9-10 hours) or flight (if available)
Best for: Those short on time who want the essential experience
8-9 hour scenic drive through rural Nepal
4-5 hours through rhododendron forests with first mountain views
5-6 hour ascent with increasingly dramatic scenery
Early morning climb for sunrise, then descend the same way back to Jhapre
3 hour hike and jeep (9-10 hours)
| Feature | Pikey Peak Trek | Poon Hill Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner-Friendly | Beginner-Friendly |
| Highest Point | Pikey Peak (4,065m) | Poon Hill (3,210m) |
| Crowd Level | Less Crowded | Crowded due to mass popularity |
| Permit Requirements | Only TIMS | ACAP, TIMS |
| Culture & Villages | Sherpa and Rai Culture | Gurung Culture |
| Best Season | March to May, September to November | March to May, September to November |
| Everest Visibility | Yes (clear view) | No |
| Trek Duration | 5-7 days | 4-5 days |
| 8000m Peaks Visible | 8 | 3 |
| Maps | ||
| Height charts |  |
 |
Group of 4:
Includes: Guide, 2 porters, teahouse accommodation, meals, transport
Excludes: Flights (Phaplu-Kathmandu), personal expenses
Contact us at info@nepaltourandtrek.com for private trek options
⭐ Beginner-Friendly: Easier than Everest Base Camp with shorter walking days (4-6 hours)
⭐ Low Altitude Risk: Maximum elevation 4,065m (lower than Poon Hill's highest point)
⭐ Teahouse Comfort: No camping needed - lodges with attached bathrooms available
⚠ Road Sections: About 4 hours total walking on roads due to 2024 flood damage
⚠ Basic Facilities: Teahouses are comfortable but not luxurious
⚠ Unpredictable Flights: Phaplu-Kathmandu flights are unreliable
⚠ New Route: Not recommended for solo trekkers due to limited infrastructure
Pikey Peak is in the Lower Everest Region of Nepal, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga.
The summit of Pikey Peak stands at 4,065 meters (13,336 feet) above sea level.
It is a moderate trek, suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail involves some steep ascents but is less crowded than Everest Base Camp.
The best seasons are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). Winter (December-February) is possible but cold, while monsoon (June-August) has rain and poor visibility.
The standard trek takes 5-7 days, depending on the route and pace.
The trek usually starts from Dhap or Jiri, accessible by a 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu.
While it’s possible to trek independently, a guide or porter is recommended for navigation and support, especially in remote areas.
Yes, some trekkers combine Pikey Peak with Lower Solu or the Everest Panorama Trek for a longer journey.
You need a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (if entering from Phaplu).
A guided trek costs $500-$900, depending on group size, services, and duration. Independent trekkers can do it for less.
No, carry enough Nepali cash from Kathmandu or Phaplu, as there are no ATMs in remote villages.
Basic teahouses and lodges are available along the route, offering simple rooms and meals.
You’ll find Dal Bhat (rice & lentils), noodles, soups, momos, and Tibetan bread. Meat options are limited at higher altitudes.
Yes, but it’s safer to use purified or boiled water. Carry a reusable bottle and water purification tablets.
Yes, since the trek reaches 4,065m, acclimatization is important. Symptoms can include headaches and nausea—descend if severe.
Essentials include warm layers, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and a good camera.
Medical facilities are limited. In case of emergencies, helicopter evacuation may be required (ensure travel insurance covers this).
You’ll encounter Sherpa, Tamang, and Rai villages, monasteries, and Buddhist prayer flags along the way.
Yes! Pikey Peak offers one of the best sunrise views of Everest, along with other peaks like Makalu and Lhotse.
Absolutely! It’s a hidden gem with fewer trekkers, offering a more peaceful experience.
