Highlights of this trip:
We begin with exploring Kathmandu Valley Cultural World Heritage Sites.
Our trekking features visits to traditional Sherpa villages, monasteries, local schools. The high point of the trek is at Pike summit that is known as the best place to see the spectacular panorama that stretches across nearly the entire Himalaya range from Kanchenjunga in the East to Dhaulagiri in the West.
We will travel by road eastward to Jiri. From here, we will hike along the old Everest trail to Likhu Khola. We will then hike southeast through terraced farmlands, villages, forests and open spaces to Pike Viewpoint. Along the way, we will see the traditional lifestyles as we trek through a variety of Nepalese villages with various ethnic groups nestled in the spectacular Himalaya.
Destination Introduction:
Lhamuje and Pike form a long ridgeline above many valleys with streams and rivers. This is a new trekking destination situated in Okhaldunga (northwest highlands) and Solu Khumbu (central southwest) Districts. We trek through the foothills of the spectacular Numbur Himal, which also has one of the best viewpoints.
This lies southwest of Mount Everest and adjacent to the old expedition route south of Lhamjura pass. The summit of Pike at (13,776ft) above sea level gives you an ample opportunity to enjoy stunning Himalayan views and scenic valleys. Standing on the summit of Pike on a clear day, you can see Mount Everest, Lhotse Shar, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru, Mera Peak, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga far in the east, Numbur Himal and Karyolung above Dudh Kunda (closest to Pike), Ghaurishankar, Langtang Lirung, Ganesh, Manaslu, Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri in the west. No place in Nepal, but Pike summit can promise you the grandeur of the panorama of almost the entire Himalaya of Nepal.
The 13,776 feet Pike viewpoint is mostly grassy, and some exposed rocks adorned with some Buddhist prayer flags. In the summer the Yaks and Naks graze here. In the month of July/August each year, the local people settled in the valleys hold a celebration on top of Pike. During this festival, all the locals come here in their finest attire with much fanfare. The blessings of the festival and the meaning it carries is to thank the god of this mountain, the earth, water and all the sentient beings for helping the well being of the people in the area.
Trekking in July is not suggested unless you love being in the nature.
July is the peak of monsoon where leeches greet you, muddy and slippery trails, cloudy and rainy weather is the condition. The beauty of this weather is that the entire upper hill region is filled with animals as the locals bring their animals during the harvest season. The entire mountains and forests are so lush green and beautiful. Flowers and butterflies come to life.
The surrounding valleys of Lhamuje (aka Lamje Danda) and Pike hold some of the most extensive Sherpa settlements and the hub of their culture, which has not been explored because the region is off the main trekking route to Everest. Trekking down the valley an hour or two in any direction will lead you to Sherpa villages where most locals have never seen outsiders. Visitors will be welcomed with traditional Sherpa hospitality.
Along the trek, we’ll visit Kingurding Monastery, Phapre Monastery, Tolu Tharling Monastery, Tapting / Jhapre Monastery, Ngaur Monastery, Golela Monastery, Thupten Chholing Monastery, Taksindu Monastery, and Chiwong Monastery and local homes to see the Sherpa way of life. The spring trekking in the region is extraordinarily beautiful with blossoms of Rhododendrons in various colors of red, purple, pink, magenta, and white while other colorful spring blooms complement the scenery. Fall treks offer the clearest weather with spectacular Himalayan panorama.
If you are looking for a cultural trek and enjoy traveling in the less travelled trails without modern amenities, where you can see traditional Sherpa villages and monasteries that has not yet been influenced by modernization, then this is a trip to consider.
The trekking route I have created to be is based on my personal experience and vision for the region as a local boy of the area well-conditioned by the winds of Pike. Pike viewpoint has six plus routes to trek there. I have been promoting trekking to this area for almost three decades and have operated a few successful trips.
Comfortable Lodging in Kathmandu Valley:
Quality boutique hotels Nepali Ghar Hotel or Hotel Thamel House close to the hustle and bustle of Thamel will be your comfort when traveling with Sherpa Travel.
If these hotels are full, similar lodging will be provided. We strongly suggest to book your trip far in advance to get the best desired lodging and airfares.
Economical Lodging and two-person tents during the trek:
This trek will include basic lodge overnights and two-person tents during the trek we will be traveling in off the beaten track destination.
Trip leadership by local English-speaking licensed Nepali guide throughout the trip and support staff guides (1 porter per 2 clients) are employed to carry your luggage on the trek.
