And then it's already quite an adventure to get yourself to the Pikey Peak trekhead. Located in the picturesque Solukhumbu valley of Nepal, Pikey Peak offers panoramic Himalaya views and a cultural experience. Unlike many treks in Nepal that require flying into and out of tiny mountain airstrips, we can drive all the way to the trailhead for Pikey Peak from Kathmandu, which is more appealing to independent travelers seeking a less ethereal Himalayan experience. If you have information about the jeep and bus logistics for 2026, that will help with your planning so that you can start relaxed and tension-free on your first day of trekking.

Transportation to Pikey Peak Overview

Most treks to the Pikey Peak start from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. From there, trekkers will keep moving east on foot through every conceivable terrain before gradually inching out of city limits as the roads enter hill country, and finally, the lower Himalayas. 

The end of this road trip is at Dhap Bazaar, which is an area situated at a height of about 2,850m. and from where the majority of the Pikey peak itinerary starts heading up towards Pikey Peak. This land crossing provided trekkers a taste of rural Nepalese life and stunning vistas, thus making for an easy way for us to ease into our journey.

Road Distance and Travel Time

The bus ride from Kathmandu to Dhap is very long, but it's worth it. The length of the road is approximately 250-270 km, depending on the type of transport, traffic, and travel time ranges from 8 to 10 hours. The streets are pretty much all paved except for some dirt roads. 

The last hours (which I suppose amounts to the title of this ride because of that) are some dirt road that gets a little narrower and rougher as you get up the mountains. Flights will usually depart in the very early morning (4 am-6 am is customary) to Dhap by sunset. This timetable needs to be well organized, especially since in trekking season, cars get full too early.

Shared Jeeps: Most Popular Option

Local buses and shared jeeps still remain one of the most popular and convenient modes of transportation for many trekkers who are on their way to Dhap. They depart from specific points in Kathmandu, usually early in the morning. It is also a fiscally responsible per-seat cost, so it's perfect for penny-pinching travelers or solo vagabonds. 

The ride isn't always smooth, but shared jeeps offer an efficient way to travel, and generally less time is spent waiting than at the bus park, and you'll often be with other trekkers headed where you are. Seats are extremely limited during high season, so I suggest securing a spot at least one day in advance.

Private Jeeps for Comfort and Flexibility

If convenience and flexibility are what make you happy, then private jeeps may be for you. Travelling by your own 4×4 vehicle, you will enjoy the freedom to choose when to depart and when to return, and take a leisurely self-drive journey in Africa. It is especially awesome for groups or those who pack bulky backpacks and massive gear. Kathmandu to Dhap by Private Jeep. The private jeeps from Kathmandu to Dhalapre,e of course, are a more expensive option, but well worth it, particularly when you have flown a long distance or are facing hard days walking.

Local Buses for Budget Travelers

If you are travelling on a micro budget, or have time on your side, then local buses are your most affordable overland form of transport to the closest point to the Pikey Peak trek head. They depart from the main bus parks heading east of Kathmandu and pass Dhulikhel, Okhaldhungga, and some will go as far as Dhap. Buses are less comfortable and slower than jeeps, of course, which means the adventurous backpacker can still have an authentic local experience if they're able to hack it. Space is not always available (especially during high season), so get there sufficiently early to secure a spot!

Road Trip Travel Tips

Get ready for a long overland journey to Dhap with comfort and safety. The roads are winding and mountainous, so I recommend having motion sickness tablets or remedies available. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and plenty of water, since the food stops along the way may be limited or simple. Flights leaving Kathmandu are generally early to make the most of daylight, so you will want to be at your departure point in plenty of time. A road can be bad too in rainy weather so you will need some scheduling flexibility with your travel plans.

Flight Alternative: Phaplu Airport

Another option for a non-trekked walk to the Pikey Peak is from Kathmandu to Phaplu airport by flight. The flights take 30 to 40 minutes, but save hours of road travel. The trek starts from Phaplu. Either approximately an hour / 45 minutes drive to Dhap, or walk for a few minutes, or use local Bus/Jeep services before the road up to their trek heads' starting points. Flights are also contingent on the weather and can be canceled or delayed, so it's good to have some flexibility in your itinerary. This can be very appealing for those who have little time or want to do something different from touring the country.

On Foot from Dhap Bazaar

Once in Dhap, you're now finished with the overland part of your trip and begin to trek. Most of the itineraries from Dhap Bazaar go across an easy uphill trail towards Jhapre, or a local culture comes alive. 

The hike includes walking through rhododendron forests, crossing yak pastures, and several viewpoints to Pikey Base Camp,and finally towards Pikey Pike. Ending the road trip in Dhap allows you a little bit of time to adjust and get ready for what lies ahead.

Planning Your Return Journey

Transport to and from Pikey Peak. When you've reached Pikey Peak and completed the trek, how you come back to Kathmandu is as crucial as your journey there. Phaplu bus/shared jeep or private vehicle returns to Kathmandu, and some trekkers finish here. 

The return journey is guided by the same time and cost as the departure, so planning/budgeting/timing looks to be comparable. If you flew to Phaplu, check that you have everything ready for a smooth return flight to Kathmandu, leaving around 10 am; this will likely be just as cold and bumpy!

Final Thoughts

Reaching the Pikey Peak trek trailhead in 2026 does require a little work, specifically working out local jeep and bus logistics from Kathmandu to Dhap. So whether the cheapness and company of shared jeeps is for you, or private jeeps are more your thing, or even budget but no frills local buses, there are pros to all! Starting the walk as a rested and well‑prepared hiker allows it to develop its own tempo, and your journey of a lifetime in the Himalayas is an adventure filled with incredible scenery, cultural experiences, and an introduction to trekking that starts long before you even bolt a boot onto the trail.