Scenic Drive Kathmandu – Dhap
Kathmandu to Dhap highway is attraction in itself. Coming out of the city, we will see rice terraces and banana groves. The road goes up through green forests and then transitions to alpine scenery. It is along the Sunkoshi River, which flows down through deep gorges with turquoise-colored water. Tons of people sell fruit by the side of the road and little girls wave at our jeep. Langur monkeys are also spotted in the trees. We usually stop for lunch at Ghurmi. Along the way, we will get our first glimpses at snow-capped mountains.
Tamang and Sherpa Villages with Monasteries
The trekking route goes through Tamang and Sherpa communities. In Tamang villages such as Sigane, houses are made of stone, and decorated with prayer flags. Sherpa villages like Jhapre and Junbesi have monasteries, mani walls and chortens with butter lamps. A visit to these places provides us with an opportunity to learn about Himalayan Buddhism. We can meet villagers, hear folk songs and try butter tea. Homestays and teahouses provide more interaction with the culture.
Forest Trails and Alpine Meadow
The trail winds through a number of natural areas. Lower trails are through pine and sal forests with the chance to see monkeys and birds. Higher up, rhododendrons bloom in spring, and juniper and bamboo add fresh scents. Between Jasmane Bhanjyang and Junbesi, the road passes into wide meadows where yaks graze. In summer the fields are covered in wildflowers and in winter the meadows become snowy white.
Base Camp and Summit Pikey Peak
Base camp at 3,640m has some simple teahouses and open views of the Solu region. At night the sky shines with the stars. The ascent to the summit is a short but steep climb, and usually takes place early in the morning. The mountains are all around at 4,065 m, and prayer flags flap in the wind. From this point, we can see Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Manaslu, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. To the south the plains are boundless. This panorama is one of the primary reasons why trekkers prefer the Pikey Peak route.
Sunrise Himalayan Panorama
One of the most memorable options for watching sunrise in Pikey Peak is the view from the peak itself. The sky shifts from dark blue to pink and the peaks are gradually revealed. Soon the sun illuminates Everest, Kanchenjunga, etc. Sir Edmund Hillary once said this was his favorite view of Everest. Eight of the highest mountains in the world can be seen on clear days. Every minute the colors change, so photographers love this spot.
Quiet and Peaceful Route
The Pikey Peak Trek is less popular than the Everest Base Camp trek. We usually walk in silence, only listening to birds and wind. This peace allows more time to meet the local people and enjoy nature. The less traffic also has a positive impact on the environment.
Junbesi village and Monastery
Junbesi is the traditional Sherpa village which has stone houses and prayer flags. It contains the Junbesi Monastery and the Hillary School, which was constructed in the 1960s. Nearby is Thupten Chyoling Monastery where hundreds of monks and nuns reside. It is a special experience to hear them chanting in the monastery hall. Junbesi also has small bookshops, small bakeries, and handicraft stalls.
Cultural and Traditional Practices of the Locals
Along the way, there are mani walls, stupas and prayer flags. Farmers use oxen to plough fields, women weave on handlooms, and children look after animals. Drinking tea with families, eating local food or putting on traditional Sherpa dresses make the experience even more meaningful.
Comfortable Trekking Days
Most trekking days are four to six hours in length though Day 4 and Day 5 are longer and more strenuous compared to others. This offers time to rest, take photos and visit monasteries. There are also several days before and after the summit to allow for acclimatization. Guides encourage walking at a slow pace which makes the trek easier and safer.
Return Drive Phaplu – Kathmandu
The return journey from Phaplu goes through terraced fields, Sherpa and Rai villages, and views of the disappearing Himalayas. We can stop at Okhaldhunga to have a look at the local markets. Along the Sunkoshi River we can see fishermen cast nets and children play in the water. This last drive is a good time to reflect on your trek before you arrive at Kathmandu.