

Pikey Peak at dawn
After learning about the existence of two Pikey Peaks, we set out early. While it’s possible to trek from Pikey Peak Base Camp to Junbesi in one day, we chose the scenic route. After all, I had two Pikey Peaks to conquer.
Pikey Peak is an excellent choice for trekkers seeking stunning views without high altitude challenges. It’s poised to rival the famous Poon Hill trek in popularity. My advice? Visit sooner rather than later. In a decade, it’s likely to be fully commercialized and crowded with day-trippers.
Panoramic Mountain Views
The panorama from Pikey Peak is truly spectacular, featuring:
- Mount Everest
- Lhotse
- Makalu
- Thamserku
- Gauri Shankar
- Mera Peak
- Annapurna Range
Ascending Pikey Peak: What to Expect
I’m including some photos here to give you an idea how steep Pikey Peak is. With trekking poles, it becomes easier. There’s no rush, so things are easier still. Here’s what you’ll encounter:
- A large grassy area
- Big boulders dotted across the landscape
- No need to climb the boulders
- Ascent time: 60-90 minutes

Is Sunrise at Pikey Peak Worth It?
The decision to trek for sunrise at Pikey Peak depends on your personal preferences:
- Consider a sunrise trek if you plan to rush to Junbesi afterward
- If you’re coming from Shivalaya, similar sunrises are visible from Nagaor Gumba
Personal recommendation: Unless you’re intent on maximizing every experience, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading up
However, if it’s cloudy, attempt the sunrise trek for a chance at clear views through potential breaks in the clouds
At the top prayer flags flutter in the wind which adds to satisfaction of making it to the summit of Pikey Peak. Those wonderful panoramas surround you like nowhere else in Nepal from such an altitude. Everest is up ahead. It’s a good view. I feel as if this trek was indeed worth it for that alone.
Is the second Pikey Peak any different?
There’s a few meters of a difference, but after that, both give the same views!
There’s a 30 minute decent from the first Pikey Peak and a 45-60 minute ascent to the top of the second. If you have the time … why not!

Is Sunrise at Pikey Peak Worth It? The decision to trek for sunrise at Pikey Peak depends on your itinerary and preferences: Consider sunrise if you plan to rush to Junbesi afterward If you’re coming from Shivalaya, similar sunrises are visible from Nagaor Gumba Personal recommendation: Unless you’re intent on maximizing every experience, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading up However, if it’s cloudy, attempt the sunrise trek for a chance at clear views through potential breaks in the clouds
Onwards to Jase Bhanjyang
One of the things that makes me consider a trek rating, is not just the best view point. It’s the trail getting there. And, the trail leaving there. The latter part should be just as good. The trail to Jase Bhanjyang does not disappoint. While we trek down it’s still forested and enjoyable.
Coming down from Pikey Peak only takes about 30 minutes. It’s a nice slope, but trekking poles help with any slipping issues. I would imagine if it was rainy season things would be a little tougher.

This brings up an important point about trekking Pikey Peak. I would imagine the monsoon season would bring nothing but disappointment. Pikey Peak is best done in the traditional trekking months in Nepal.
However, I will add in what nobody else will tell you. The Annapurna’s will be harder to spot in the spring season if it’s cloudy. So, check out my best times to go trekking in Nepal for more. Meanwhile, it’s on to Jase Bhanjang which is worth a visit.
Pikey Peak 9-day trek
- Day One Trekking Pikey Peak: – Permits, Planning & Kathmandu to Shivalaya
- Day Two Trekking Pikey Peak: – Shivalaya to Bhandar
- Day Three Trekking Pikey Peak: – Bhandar to Namkheli
- Day Four Trekking Pikey Peak: – Namkheli to Nagaor Gumba
- Day Five Trekking Pikey Peak: – Nagaor Gumba to Pikey Peak Base Camp
- Day Six Trekking Pikey Peak: – Pikey Peak Summit to Jase Bhanjyang
- Day Seven Trekking Pikey Peak: – Jase Bhanjyang to Junbesi
- Day Eight Trekking Pikey Peak: – Junbesi to Phalpu
- Day Nine Trekking Pikey Peak: – return to Kathmandu
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The panoramic mountain views sound incredible! Which peak, in your opinion, offers the best views?
Other than a few meters, they are both exactly the same!
Hi David, I’m planning a trek in Nepal next year. Do you recommend Pikey Peak over Poon Hill?
It depends on you time! If you have a little more time, then Pikey Peak. If you only have a few days, Poon Hill. Likewise, Pikey Peak has less tourists.
Sunrise sounds amazing! Any tips for making the most out of it?
Get up early, and go at the right time of year.
The trail to Jase Bhanjyang. How does it compare to the ascent to Pikey Peak?
Mountain views = the top of Pikey Peak. The ascent to Pikey Peak = not so exciting. Trail to Bhanjyang = authentic villages etc.
What’s the best time of year to trek Pikey Peak for clear views?
Late October, November, December, April/May. Though if you have good luck with the weather re cloud cover, then you’ll still get great views of both ranges at other times of the year. It’s not a trek for the monsoon season though.
Hi Dave, never get disappointed reading your stories on Nepal. I was almost going to ask you when you would publish your Day Six, after waited for almost a month.
Look, I have become your silent reader nonetheless, I still read every of your newsletter and enjoy reading it.
Thank you!
Hi Mandy, always good to have you reading here!
Sorry for the delay. The newsletter is sent out with some software that was updated and had a hitch in it – which I’ve now discovered and can work around. Everything works until “they update it” – ha! Thanks for reading and commenting as always.
Great read on your trek to Pikey Peak! The detailed account of the summit and journey to Jase Bhanjyang is inspiring. Your experiences and tips are very helpful for future trekkers. Looking forward to more adventures!
Thank you, glad you found it inspiring.