Useful Information
Equipment List for trekking
- Sun Protection ( Sun Glass, Sun Cream, Hat etc)
- Boots Well-fitted and waterproof
- Socks 3 to 5 pair
- Glove warm enough -5 to10 degrees
- Long underwear (top and bottom)
- T-shirt 2 or 3 pieces
- waterproof jacket and pant
- Trekking trousers
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking stick
- Daypack 20 to 30 litters
- Daily using thing
- Camera or mobile and charger
- Personal medicine and First Aid Kit
- Head Torch
- 2 water bottles with purification
- Towel Quick-drying
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, floss, etc.)
- Down jackets or warm jacket
- Trekking Shorts pant
- Sandals/ shoes For evenings
- Pocket knife
- neck cap or Neck Gaiter (or Buff/Scarf)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) - Pikey Peak Trek
What are the post-COVID-19 travel restrictions for Nepal?
Traveling to Nepal has become much easier now that the COVID-19 pandemic is mostly behind us. Currently, no vaccination certificate or negative PCR test is needed when entering the country. However, please check with your airline and transit countries for specifics and possible travel requirements.
For the most accurate and recent travel restrictions to entry information visit the official, Nepal Immigration website at immigration.gov.np. Check the site for updates so you can plan your travel and travel worry free!
Additional Activities and Extensions to Pikey Peak Trek
Do you also provide sightseeing and birdwatching excursions in Kathmandu?
Indeed, we provide guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu which include guided trips to cosmopolitan cultural sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and birding experiences to lovely natural countryside. Each activity is meant to stimulate your appreciation of Kathmandu's unique culture, history, and biodiversity.
Do you also provide trip extensions to Chitwan National Park?
We are able to set up trip extensions to Chitwan National Park that include jungle safaris, canoeing, and visits to Tharu cultural villages! This is the perfect way to unwind and experience the rich wildlife of Nepal after your trekking.
Do we have to organize our own international flights to and from Nepal?
Yes, travelers are responsible for booking their own international flights to and from Nepal. To plan your flights, we recommend searching reputable flight search engines or researching airlines with several flights weekly to Nepal, Qatar Airlines, Turkish Airlines, or Nepal Airlines for example.
Are the guides fluent in English?
Certainly! Our guides speak English fluently and will provide you with clear communication throughout your travels. Both guide and interpreters, they really enliven the mountains with their exciting stories, traditions, and the inherent folk lore any community possesses. This also gives you an advantage in dealing with the locals as they will also help with the interactions you will have with any local shopkeepers, teahouse hosts and other people in the community that do not speak English. Their service goes beyond guiding and, you will find, they will add to your traveling experience in every part of your journey.
When is the ideal time to do the Pikey Peak trek?
Trekking Pikey Peak is possible from September to May. More defined periods of the trekking season are:
- Spring (March–May): pleasant temperatures, unclouded skies, rhododendrons in blossom, and breathtaking Himalayan views.
- Autumn (September - November): Generally stable weather, clear views, and comfortable temperatures; perfect for photographers, with stunning panoramic mountain views.
- Winter (December - February): Cold temperatures but with limited trekkers; clear days deliver stunning mountain views, but early-mornings and evenings can be quite cold.
- Summer (June - August): Monsoon season; with wet or rainy days and muddy trails; lush green landscape but typically, high views of the mountains are hidden from view.
For the optimal experience with the best weather and views of the mountains, we recommend visiting in October-November or March-April.
Learn more about the Best time to trek Pikey peak
What kind of weather and temperature should I expect while trekking?
Mountain weather is well-known for its unpredictability, so it is very important to come prepared. Here is a seasonal breakdown of the typical weather for the Pikey Peak area:
Spring (March - May) spring has good trekking conditions with warmer temperature and the ringing rhododendron forest.
- Daytime: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
- Morning/Night: 0-10°C (32-50°F)
Monsoon (June - Mid-September) this season has rain, often in the afternoons, however, relatively clear views are possible in the mornings.
- Daytime: 18-25°C (64-77°F)
- Morning/Night: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
Autumn (Late September - November) autumn has more stable weather and excellent visibility for mountain views.
- Daytime: 12-20°C (54-68°F)
- Morning/Night: -2-8°C (28-46F)
Winter (December - February) winter has colder temperatures, but fewer trekkers and crystalline views on clear days.
- Daytime: 5-15°C (41-59°F)
- Morning/Night: -5-0°C (23-32°F)
Temperatures are estimates for outdoors near guesthouses. We try our best to ensure your comfort and provide a warm sleeping bag and blanket if needed.
What is the sleeping bag temperature rating that hikers are given?
Temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) are rated for the sleeping bags we offer. If more warmth is required, our guides can also set up extra blankets from teahouses.
Health and Safety
- Altitude Sickness: The highest point on the Pikey Peak trek is 4,065m, but we should still try to acclimatise while trekking. This is why on the itinerary our pace is gentle to allow for a gradual ascent. Be mindful of the symptoms and stay hydrated.
- Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers trekking up to 4,100m and possible evacuation if necessary.
- Vacinations: To obtain the recommended immunizations (such as tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis A), it is preferable to speak with a travel clinic. Equipment and Packing List
- Clothing: Layers for the various temperatures you might experience. You will want a waterproof jacket, one or more thermal layers, and a down jacket.
- Footwear: Strong, broken-in trekking boots with good ankle support.
- Sleeping: Sleeping bag will be needed (3-season), and you may want a sleeping pad too.
- Add-ons: a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles, and a water bottle or hydration kit.
- Health: personal prescription drugs, a first aid kit, and water purification tablets or a filter.
Accommodation and Food
- Teahouses - Basic lodges that can be found along the route offer cozy accommodations.
- Food - Basic, but healthy food is available. Dishes such as traditional Nepali dal bhat (rice and lentils), soups of various kinds, noodles, and regional specialties are typical.
Communication and Connectivity
- Mobile Signal - Mobile signal is available in many areas, but may not always be reliable in very remote places.
- Wi-Fi: Although teahouses have Wi-Fi, it can be erratic and slow.
Logistics and Travel
- Starting Point - The trek usually begins from either Dhap or Phaplu, which can be reached by flight or road from Kathmandu.
- Transportation - Either by flight to Phaplu or by jeep if trekking from an airport is preferred to reach the trailhead.
Environmental Responsibility
- Leave No Trace - Carry out all trash and try to leave the smallest environmental footprint.
- Support Local - If you purchase goods and services locally, you will be helping the local enterprise.
How much does the Pikey Peak Trek Cost?
The Pikey Peak Trek costs about $600 to $900 USD for a 6- to 8-day trek. Most of this price is for permits, and guide and porter fees, and, in addition, accommodation in teahouses and food, which is all inclusive. Point of note that it could cost more for a larger group (the more people the more permits), or if the trek is longer, or in general if you require for higher level of services.
Is it possible to obtain a Nepal visa at the airport?
Definitely! When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, you can obtain a visa. Just remember to pack your passport, passport photo and the visa fee. If you fill out the online ETA visa application first, it may save you some time at immigration.
When I get to the airport, who will be waiting for me?
In order to make themselves easily identifiable, a helpful person will be waiting for you at the airport with a sign that bears your name or the name of our business! They'll help you with your bags and make sure your transfer to your hotel goes smoothly.
Payment and Additional Cost
How much additional money should I carry around every day?
Generally speaking, it is good to allow an additional $15–$25 per day on your budget to cover personal expenses for things like snacks, hot showers, device charging, or souvenirs. There are lower prices generally found in the Pikey Peak region than other popular trek regions such as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna.
Will I be able to use credit cards on my Pikey Peak trek?
Credit cards are typically not accepted on trekking routes and will be more limited in remote areas like Pikey Peak. To be prepared, your best option is to have enough cash in Nepalese rupies to cover all of your daily expenses while on trek.
Is the deposit due at the time of booking, or can I pay it later?
In order to secure your booking with us, you are required to make a payment of $100 USD (note: this will not include any online payment fees).
How are the currency exchanges and ATMs in Kathmandu?
There are many ATMs and money exchange locations in Kathmandu. International cards are accepted by the majority of ATMs, albeit there may be limitations on the maximum amount that can be spent and related costs. There are numerous locations with affordable exchange rates.
How do I pay the balance owing when I arrive in Kathmandu? Can I use a card or pay in US dollars?
You can pay the remaining amount in cash in US dollars or other major currencies when you get to Kathmandu. Credit card payments are also accepted, although there will be a 3.7% banking surcharge. You can bring up to USD 5,000 cash into Nepal, per person.
Is hiking by yourself safe in the Pikey Peak area?
The Pikey Peak trek is generally safe for solo trekkers because the trails are well marked. The Pikey Peak trek is not remote the trail takes you through many villages and there are teahouses along the route. Trekking with a guide is advised even though it is generally safe, particularly if this is your first trip in Nepal. In addition to offering assistance with route navigation, a guide can offer insights into the locals' culture. Furthermore, they will be there to assist you in the event of an emergency. The best two seasons for solo trekking is in spring and autumn when the weather is the most stable and you will meet more trekkers along the trail.
Is it safe for solo female travellers to trek in mountain regions like Pikey Peak?
Trekking in Nepal, particularly the vicinity of Pikey Peak, is generally safe for female travelers traveling alone. The local communities are hospitable and respectful of foreign visitors. However, hiring a guide will enhance your experience and provide added safety. An alternative option for solo female travellers seeking added security and companionship is joining a group trek.
Physical Fitness
What is the Pikey Peak Trek's distance?
The length of the Pikey Peak Trek (50-60 km / 31-37 mi) is variable over the course of a 6-8 day trek depending on your chosen itinerary. The average daily distance trekkers will walk on the trail will be 5-8 km (3-5 mi) each day and total trek duration on the trail is approximately 4-6 hours per day.
The Pikey Peak Trek covers some steep ascents and descents (only limited to 1 day on ascent, then the whole route back to the starting point) so its level of difficulty is generally rated as less than Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks. Each day is generally planned to allow for applicable distances at a good pace, that allow for photography, cultural experiences, and rest.
How difficult is the Pikey Peak Trek?
The trek can be classified as moderately difficult and is designed for trekkers of varying fitness levels. Expect to do lots of walking each day of between 5-8 km, with daily elevation gain/loss of between 500-800m. Pikey Peak is the highest peak on this hike. The elevation of 4,065 meters (13,335 feet) does not make it a high mountain.
This trek is less demanding than trekking to Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit and thus perfect for novice trekkers and those wanting to take it easy in the Himalayas. Even so, parts of the trek include some physically demanding uphill and downhill walking that requires fitness and stamina.
Given that Pikey Peak is a moderate altitude trek, altitude sickness is not as much of an issue as it is on higher level treks; however, we have still done our best to incorporate several acclimatization and rest days into the itinerary. With good preparation and a positive attitude, most good health individuals can successfully complete this trek.
Is previous trekking experience essential?
The Pikey Peak Trek does not require prior trekking expertise. The Pikey Peak Trek is an excellent way to get started trekking in the Himalayas and is appropriate for beginners. First timers can be a part of guided treks, and enjoy the safety and comfort of being supported. Basic physical preparation is suggested for you to enjoy the journey.
Are there restrictions for people trekking in the mountains?
There are no restrictions regarding ages for the Pikey Peak Trek. The trek is appropriate for a wide array of ages, from teens up to active seniors in their later 70's. A competent and an active child over age of 10 would normally be able to tackle this trek with pre-planning and join in a guided trek with perhaps a slight adjustment to the daily itineraries. Older trekkers should ensure they are in good healthy condition, and check with their doctor beforehand. Family groups, or groups with older trekkers, often join up on guided treks and create their own itineraries, organized to their pace and needs.
What level of physical fitness is required to hike Pikey Peak?
A moderate level of physical fitness is necessary for the Pikey Peak trek.You should be comfortable walking on hilly terrain for 4-6 hours per day. If you have a reasonable level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength, you will likely have a comfortable and enjoyable trek.
You should be in the fitness level needed for this expedition if you engage in regular walking or hiking for one to two months prior to your trip. Compared to other hikes, Pikey Peak is less strenuous in terms of steepness and has a reasonable elevation. Individuals with average levels of fitness can be accommodated for this trek. If you can walk comfortably for several hours on hilly terrain, you should be able to enjoy the Pikey Peak trek!
What type of physical training is essential for preparing for a trek?
The Pikey Peak Trek does not require superhuman physical preparation, when compared to many other Himalayan treks. Here are some simple focus areas:
- Cardiovascular - To prepare for the trek opt for moderate intensity aerobic fitness training such as walking, hiking, cycling or swimming for 30 to 45 minutes sessions 3 to 4 times a week in the weeks leading up to your trek.
- Strength - Basic strength preparation programs should include squats, lunges, step-ups or other exercises which are easy to extend to strengthen your legs, possibly with some core stability work (planks).
- Endurance - In the weeks leading up to your trek take weekend hikes or walks of increasing length (2-3 hours depending how fit you are) wearing a daypack to simulate some of the conditions during the trek.
- Stairs - You should also try to find time to walk up stairs. If you have stairs near your home or access a stair-climbing machine this can build strong legs for the uphill sections and endurance.
- Practice Walks - It should be sufficient to do on a weekend before your trip a few 4-5 hour walks to build your confidence as well as the endurance.
Start your preparation 6-8 weeks before you depart for the Pikey Peak Trek. Remember to wear your hiking boots a lot before you go and break them in so you do not get blisters on the trek.
Preparing and Packing for the Pikey Peak Trek
Are sleeping bags and down jackets rented?
Yes, we have sleeping bags and down jackets for rent for 1 USD per day for each. Please let us know before the trek if you would like to rent these from us so we can prepare the proper size and specifications needed for your trek. We will provide quality rental gear, but personal sleeping bags and jackets typically meet your personal comfort requirements best.
What kind of bag is carried by the porters?
Porters will carry a company-provided duffel bag with a capacity of 70 to 80 liters. This bag is designed to be sturdy and easy for the porters to manage during the trek.
What is the weight limit for a porter?
A porter can safely carry a load of up to 30 kg, however, we suggest you only pack a maximum of 25 kg to keep the load manageable. Our experience is that porters are assigned to carry the bags of two trekkers and still need to carry their own personal bags. Ideally, we would suggest that you leave any unnecessary luggage at your hotel or in the company’s store.
What type/size of daypack should I carry?
For the Pikey Peak Trek we suggest a small and lightweight daypack in the range of 20 - 25 liters. The daypack must be comfortable to wear for an extended time and have padded shoulder straps and a hip belt is preferred for better weight distribution. Also, the size of the pack should be sufficient to carry your daily essentials: water (1 - 2 liters), snacks, camera, rain jacket, small first aid kit (basic supplies), and personal stuff.
If you can find a pack that is compatible with a rain cover, that would be preferable; otherwise, a separate nylon rain cover should work as well. If it has external attachment points for trekking poles that is ideal and organization pockets for quick access to essential items are also preferable.
Do you provide porters for the trek, or Should We Carry Our Own Equipment?
Yes, we do provide porters for our Pikey Peak treks for your comfort and enjoyment. Our standard arrangements are for one porter for every two trekkers, so you will only be carrying a small daypack with an extra layer, your lunch/snacks, water, camera, and your personal items for the day's trek. The porters will carry your main duffel bag (15kg limit per person) from one overnight stop to the next. This enables you to enjoy the cultural and scenic enjoyment without the burden of a large pack. If you have any special requests for something to pack or questions then please feel free to get in touch, we are here to help!
Pikey Peak Trek Accommodation
Can you arrange accommodation in Kathmandu?
In Kathmandu, we provide lodging in a variety of price ranges, including three-star establishments like the Hotel Vistara, Hotel Vajra, and Ramada Encore.These are recommended for their comfort, service, location and overall comfort to any guests before or after their tour/trek.
What type of accommodation is available for the Pikey Peak Trek?
We will make arrangements for lodging in teahouses (or lodges managed by local families) throughout the Pikey Peak Trek. The teahouses that you will be using on the Pikey Peak Trek may not be as nice or advanced as those found on the more commercialized trekking routes (like the Annapurna Circuit), however, you will get a real sense of local hospitality. You will find some basic accommodations as most of the teahouses provide twin bed type rooms with basic furniture. The accommodation certainly will improve in the larger villages and will become more rustic as you explore the more remote areas.
Do the guesthouses have heaters in their rooms?
During the Pikey Peak Trek, guesthouses generally do not provide heated bedrooms. In most teahouses there will be a central stove in the communal dining hall for guests, and typically wood-fired. This makes a huge difference towards the end of the day when temperatures drop and it is too cool for comfort. It is a practical consideration to hang out in the communal space in the evenings, and a lovely opportunity to socialize with fellow trekkers and locals alike.
Bedrooms are unheated, so for treks that are during colder months (October - March), we suggest packing a sleeping bag rated for about -5°C to -10°C. Some tea houses may have a blanket for you to borrow upon request (generally no extra charge, or for a small fee).
What kind of toilets can you expect in the tea houses/guesthouses?
Most tea houses and guesthouses on the Pikey Peak Trek offer rudimentary toilet facilities. Large villages may have Western-style toilets, but once you head into the more remote areas it is common to find squat toilets. Toilet paper is never provided, so you need to bring your own supply.
Toilet facilities are mostly shared by all the guests, with little to no hot water, unless you are in a large settlement. Some tea houses do offer hot water, but for extra money. It is a good idea to carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes for personal hygiene along the way.
Can we have privacy rooms when trekking or in Kathmandu?
In Kathmandu, we have private rooms built into the price of all of our partner hotels. On the Pikey Peak Trek most of the teahouses will have private rooms, and they will be basic and not heated. During peak season (October-November and March-April) private rooms are based on availability since there would be more trekkers.
In non peak seasons, private rooms are rarely a problem. Most places offer twin_SHARED accommodation rooms and there will be instances in remote treks or peak seasons, where dormitory style accommodations are available. For the greatest chance of private rooms on your trekk, we recommend booking far ahead of time if travelling in peak season.
Where are the bathrooms on the Pikey Peak trek?
Toilets are available at all teahouses and lodges along the trek, where we stop for meals and overnight accommodation. Day hikes between villages are in the wilderness where toilets are only where nature intended. Our guides will provide recommendations for the best natural toilets where you would maintain privacy and respect for the environment. Some of the scenic viewing points, or are certain passes, will provide facilities as basic public toilets but they can be poorly maintained.
Should I Carry Toilet Paper on the Pikey Peak Trek?
Yes, you must take your own toilet paper for the Pikey Peak Trek. Teahouses on this low-traffic route are not as commercial and seldom have paper If you can find it, it's really difficult to buy. Take enough paper for the whole trek. Also take some toilet paper in a waterproof bag in your daypack for use when you are hiking each day.
You should also take the following:
- Hand sanitizer
- Biodegradable soap
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Wet wipes for those “shower alternatives”, on days when you don’t have washing facilities
Make sure to dispose of used toilet paper responsibly. Many Nepali plumbing systems can't handle paper, so bins are available in toilets. In a natural setting, it is a good idea to pack out your used paper, or to bury it deeply, at least 200 feet away from water sources.
I am a vegetarian. Is this an issue?
Not at all! We are glad to cater for vegetarian diets on all of our treks and tours. There are many vegetarian options and they often taste very good on the Pikey Peak Trek. Nepali food will also have plenty of vegetarian options, including Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup), which* is very nutritious and filling.
Generally, when it comes to avoiding food poisoning and indigestion, vegetarian meals are the better option - especially in remote areas, when you can not guarantee the quality of the food. Just let us know about your diet/vegetarian preference before the trek and we can communicate your needs to teahouses along the trip.
Is the food safe for the Pikey Peak trek?
Teahouses along the Pikey Peak route generally follow basic hygiene practices when preparing to serve your meal. Standards will vary between teahouses - and in general, most teahouses care about the cleanliness of their kitchen. To ensure maximum food safety, we suggest:
- Eat freshly cooked hot meals
- As much as possible stick to vegetarian meals
- Select cooked vegetables over raw salads
- Drink purified or boiled water only
- Wash your hands often before meals
Our guides know which teahouses have the better standards and will help you make safe food selections along the trek.
What is the drinking water facility in the mountains on the Pikey Peak Trek?
Throughout the Pikey Peak Trek there are safe drinking water options available.
- Bottled water is available for purchase at most teahouses (NPR 100-250 per liter or $1-2.50, depending on altitude).
- Boiled water can be provided by the teahouse, for a small additional fee (around NPR 100-150 per liter).
- You can also find natural sources of water, such as streams and taps- but must be purified.
We highly recommend trekkers to purify their own water for environmental and cost reasons. Options include:
- Water purification tablets.
- Portable water filters (Sawyer and LifeStraw).
- UV sterilization pens.
It is imperative to carry a reusable water bottle (1-2 liters). For colder months an insulated bottle is recommended to prevent water freezing at higher elevation sections. Our guides can always help with finding reliable water sources along the trek.
Is it possible to get hot or boiled drinking water? Does it cost extra?
Yes, teahouses along the Pikey Peak Trek provide hot boiled water for an additional charge of NPR 100-200 ($1-2 USD) per liter. Many trekkers fill their metal thermos flasks with hot water when it is first available in the morning so they can have warm drinks for the rest of the day.
This option is helpful during the colder months and it certainly is a safe drinking option compared to using chemical purification options. The further you go up in elevation the price does go up slightly, as the cost of the fuel used to boil the water goes up.
Are showering and bathing options available during the trek?
An option for shower facilities do exist on the Pikey Peak Trek, but as with many things, the quality and availability of showers can vary depending on where you are:
- Lower villages have basic hot showers that usually range in price from NPR 200-400 ($2 - $4).
- In higher villages, you may get hot water in a bucket rather than shower facilities.
- In the more remote areas you might be limited to either cold water for your bathing options or may have no possible bathing options for a day or so.
Hot showers are usually operating on either solar or gas systems and not included in your accommodation price. For environmental reasons and personal comfort during chilly treks, many hikers prefer to do a "wash-up" with a small amount of warm water in a bowl.
It is suggested to hold biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and a quick-dry travel towel in case there are no shower facilities available or you decide that you don't want to completely wet yourself during chilly days.
Are charging facilities available on the trek?
Yes, you can charge your electronic devices on the Pikey Peak Trek for a charge of around NPR 200-500 ($2-5) for each charge. The higher you go (higher the elevation) the fewer charging facilities there will be, although some remote teahouses will operate on solar power and when there are clouds, power may be limited.
To help ensure you have power on your trek, you should:
- Bring a portable power bank (with 10,000-20,000 mAh)
- Bring the appropriate adapters needed for the electrical outlets in Nepal (which are quite different from home)
- Consider a mini solar charger if you plan for an extended trek
- Set devices to airplane or power-saving mode
- Bring extra batteries for cameras
Most of the teahouses have charging spots in the common areas that allow you to charge multiple devices at once (this can take more time than at home).
Is there any communication while we are trekking Pikey Peak?
Communication options are present on the Pikey Peak Trek, but with some limitations:
- Mobile coverage: Most major villages have coverage from Nepali carriers, such as Ncell and NTC. The mobile coverage, depending on your location, can vary. Generally, the higher you are, the better the signal (reception is usually best at higher viewpoints), and signal may be limited in valleys or more remote trails.
- Wi-Fi: Limited to larger teahouses at an extra cost of NPR 200-500 (~$2-5 USD), and it is usually very slow.
- Guide's communication: Our guides carry mobile phones with local SIM cards and know best where to find signals if emergencies arrive.
We always recommend getting a local SIM card upon entry to Kathmandu for the most elite service while trekking because our team can assist you get a SIM card Most circumstances require a passport photo and a photocopy of your passport. In case of emergency, our operations team will always stay in contact with guides through different methods of communication, including satellite communication when necessary.
It also makes sense to let your family/friends know prior to trekking that communication will be infrequent, and try to set up a check-in plan that considers delays in relaying messages.
Can I Add Extra Days to My Trekking Trip on the Pikey Peak?
Certainly! You are able to add additional days to your Pikey Peak trek, particularly if on a private trek, or as a small group. Popular extension options include:
- An extra acclimatization or relaxation day in Junbesi or Namkheli
- Visiting some of the monasteries nearby (e.g. Thupten Chholing)
- More time exploring the neighbouring Sherpa villages
- Visiting some less-visited view points
For private treks, your guide during the trek can arrange these changes for you at an additional daily rate that will cover the costs of accommodation, meals and guide/porter. If it is a group trek, it will require the agreement of the whole group, so it would require discussion beforehand.
Additional daily costs usually will be in the range of $50-70 per day depending on what arrangements need to be made. In general, it is best to discuss the potential of any extra days when you are planning your trek to leave plenty of time to make arrangements.
Should I tip my guide and porter? If so, what amount is recommended?
Tipping is not compulsory, but it is a usual way to acknowledge and say thank you for the efforts of your trekking staff. For the Pikey Peak Trek, we recommend the following guidelines.
- Guide: $8-$12 per day
- Porter: $5-$8 per day
For example, on a 7 day Pikey Peak Trek, you would be looking at around $56-$84 for the guide (based on two tips) and $35-$56 for the porter (based on just one tip). When trekking as a group, many times, group members pool their tips and offer a collective tip at the end of the trek.
It's best to offer tips in person to each staff member during a small ceremony at the end of your trek. As stated, these are suggested amounts, but the final tipping decision should be based on your satisfaction with their level of service and your budget.
Practical Matters
How Are Emergencies Handled?
Your safety is our top priority on the Pikey Peak Trek. Our emergency response plan includes:
- Trained guides. Our guides are trained Wilderness First Aiders. They can recognize altitude sickness and have the training to treat injuries and ailments.
- Communication. All guides will carry a mobile phone and know the areas with reliable signals. In less accessible areas of the trek, we will have kadash with regards to protocols to get you to the nearest point of communication.
- Evacuation. For serious situations we will rely on helicopters for evacuation to Kathmandu (that is if weather permits) or land transportation to the closest medical facility.
- Medical Facilities. Although more significant issues and illnesses may necessitate evacuation to Kathmandu, all the larger villages have some health posts for addressing minor medical issues. Our team all have contacts for clinics in Salleri and Phaplu.
- Prevention. Our guides will do daily health checks to prevent problems from turning serious, and our itineraries include times to acclimatize.
It is essential to have adequate emergency travel insurance that will cover helicopter evacuation up to 4,100m. Trekkers must give us their insurance details prior to beginning the trek, so that we have all the required details to plan and to carryout the necessary action should the need arise.
What happens if I am unable to complete the trek?
If you can’t complete the Pikey Peak Trek for illness, injury, or personal reasons, our team will have you covered with:
- Transportation back to the nearest road access
- A guide or staff member to accompany you to safety
- Coordination of any medical assistance you may need
Please understand that we cannot provide any refunds for unused services or trek days or abort an expedition after the first day of trekking as we pre-purchase all permits, accommodation, staff and logistics often weeks in advance and have already incurred the costs. Guides and porters also receive their full wages for the maximum duration of any trek due to their wages and remuneration in accordance with the protocols of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Union of Agents, Porters and Field Staff.
It is always our first priority to ensure your safety and wellbeing and we will always ensure you will have the available assistance to return safely regardless of trekking completion.
Cultural Etiquette while Travelling in Nepal
When visiting the Pikey Peak area, or whatever part of Nepal you are traveling as a visitor, there are important cultural norms and practical etiquette considerations to be mindful of so that you will behave appropriately, and in a way that shows local people the respect that they deserve.
The following is a list of General "Do's and Don'ts" for visitors:
Do's:
- Respect local customs and traditions,
- Take off shoes prior to entering private residences and when requesting charity at monasteries,
- Seek permission first, then take pictures of people,
- Dress respectfully and conservatively, especially at religious locations,
- Walk clockwise around stupas and mani walls (Buddhist prayer walls),
- Always use your right hand when giving and/or receiving an item.
- Learn a few crucial Nepali greetings, such as, "Namaste,"
- Whenever possible, support locally-made products and services.
Don'ts
- Do not point your feet toward a person or an idol, or a religious object,
- Do not display public affection,
- Do not touch a person's head (it is considered sacred in Nepal),
- Do not eat beef, as many Nepalis are Hindu,
- Do not take pictures where signs limit or prohibit photography,
- Do not engage in any political discussions that may be sensitive,
- Do not give money to begging children (support community take infectious or contagious diseases, such as influenza, tuberculosis, hepatitis-serious examples).
- Do not trek alone; let someone know where you are going if you are trekking in isolated areas.
Following these guidelines will help you have a positive impact on the communities you visit while enriching your own experience of Nepal's unique culture and traditions.
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