Everest Base Camp via Jiri Trek

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek is a remarkable 21-day adventure that offers a unique and less traveled route to the iconic Everest region.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 21 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 5600 m
  • Accommodation Deluxe Hotels & Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

The Everest Base Camp via Jiri trek is a classic adventure that leads trekkers through the beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas, offering an authentic experience of Nepalese culture and stunning natural beauty. Starting from Jiri, this trek passes through charming villages like Namche Bazaar and Phakding, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in Sherpa culture and visit historical Buddhist monasteries. As you ascend towards the Khumbu region, the trail takes you through the heart of Sagarmatha National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, eventually reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp. The journey also includes a hike to Kala Patthar, providing breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.

This trek, unlike the more direct route from Lukla, offers a gradual acclimatization process, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and enhancing the overall trekking experience. Staying in traditional tea houses and interacting with the local Sherpa community adds a unique cultural dimension to the adventure. Key highlights include the challenging yet rewarding trails, the spectacular sight of the Khumbu Icefall, and the serene environment of Thyangboche Monastery. For those seeking an eco-friendly and memorable trekking experience in Nepal, the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

everest base camp via jiri trek

Everest Base Camp via Jiri Trek Highlights 

  • Get the opportunity to experience a Sherpa culture and traditions.
  • Tour the ancient Tengboche Monastery, participating in its prayers.
  • Witness the majestic peaks of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Amadablam. Thamserku,and Khumbu Ice Fall..

Best time for Everest Base Camp via Jiri Trek

The best time to trek the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Everest region, including the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 4°C to 28°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oye.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, the Jiri Everest Base Camp trekking trail remains more crowded than other treks in Everest Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 1°C to 27°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek trail is more crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Everest Base Camp Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Everest Base Camp. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Namaste and Welcome to Nepal! Known for its breathtaking Himalayas, Cultural richness, and beautiful valleys. Upon arrival at the airport, a representative from the Kalpa Holidays will greet you warmly, and organize transportation to your hotel. Once you’ve checked in, you’ll receive a brief summary of the exciting adventure that lies ahead. If you’re interested in exploring the city on foot, don’t hesitate to contact your guide, who will do their best to arrange a suitable walking tour tailored to your arrival schedule.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast and Dinner

We’re going to have a guided tour of Kathmandu today and explore its rich religious and cultural diversity. We start our journey at the Kumari Ghar, the residence of the living goddess Kumari, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is well-known for its ancient architecture. We will then drive to Swayambhunath, popularly known as the Monkey Temple. We will then proceed to the Boudhanath Stupa and then head back to the hotel.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2190 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Traveling from Kathmandu to Bhandar through Jiri is a beautiful journey through rural Nepal. The road winds through hills and valleys, offering stunning views of terraced fields, villages, and green landscapes. You’ll experience authentic rural life, seeing locals going about their day. Passing through Jiri, known as the gateway to Everest, adds excitement to the trip. Though the road can be tough, it’s worth it for the peaceful Nepalese countryside, making this drive unforgettable.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2575 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Embark on the trek from Bhandar to Sete is an exciting journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. Today we will trek from the Bhandar village, and gradually we will ascend to Sete, where we can see panoramic views of the Himalayas, diverse flora and fauna, and beautiful culturally rich villages.

 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2700 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Through the challenging Lamjura La Pass, we make our way to Junbesi on today’s walk. With two ponds and a Mani wall, the route goes through Dagchu and Goyam. From Jiri to Namche Bazaar, the highest point is Lamjura La Pass, where we gradually ascend through a forest of rhododendrons, farmhouses, and lodges. We slowly climb through cabins, rural dwellings, and rhododendron woodlands towards Lamjura La Pass, the peak situated between Jiri and Namche Bazaar. Descending through forests to Taktor, we continue past Thaktop Gompa and Hillary School, eventually reaching the Sherpa village of Junbesi. Overnight stay in Junbesi

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2810 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

This is going to be our first rest day on the challenging journey to Everest Base Camp. Today we will explore the Sherpa village of Junbesi, where we will see the way people live their lives. Trekking to Phungmuche or doing a quick day hike to Idingma offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Thupten Choling monastery, the Sherpa art center, the Tibetan refugee community, and stunning natural formations. We’ll explore the area before heading back to Junbesi.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2810 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Trekkers will have a longer trek today, navigating ups and downs until they reach Nunthala. Crossing the Junbesi River and passing through Khumbu, they descend to Salung after reaching Phurteng and enjoying views of Everest, Thamserku, and Mera Peak. The trail continues past hydropower prayer wheels, diverse forests, and an ascent to Taksindu La. Exploring a cheese factory in Taksindu and crossing streams, they climb after crossing a bridge to reach Nunthala for an overnight stay.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2360 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, today we will descend from Nunthala and gradually proceed towards the Dudh Koshi River bridge, passing through the Rai village known as Jubling. Slowly we will walk through dense forests and terraced fields to Khumbila. From Jubling we will continue walking through Kari Khola to Bupsa, overnight we will stay here at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2785 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Our trek continues to trek to Chheplung. We’ll cross the Kharte bridge and carefully ascend to Kari La. From there, we’ll make our way through a forest and descend to Surke, where we might spend the night. After crossing a stream and reaching a junction, we have two choices: one path leads to Lukla Airport, while the other joins the main trekking trail before Chheplung. As we pass through small villages along the Dudh Koshi River, we’ll end our day with an overnight stay in Chheplung.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3440 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we will hike from Chheplung to Namche Bazaar. The journey begins with a moderate descent through pine trees and Sherpa villages, following the Dudh Koshi River till we reach Monjo, the gateway of Sagamatha National Park. From here we’ll descend from Monjo to the river and pass another suspension bridge before arriving in Jorsalle. We’ll continue along the Dudh Koshi River, over the Hillary Bridge, and we will arrive in Namche in a few minutes. We’ll be staying here overnight.

 

 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3440 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Acclimatization in Namche is crucial as it allows your body to adjust to the lower oxygen levels, and you can significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Today we will visit the Sherpa Museum and the Namche Monastery. In the afternoon, you may visit Namche’s colorful market, which has a variety of stores, bakeries, and cafés. Stay overnight at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3810 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will ascend to Tengboche. The trekking trail unfolds various flora and fauna, breathtaking views of mountains,  and beautiful landscapes. A steep climb reveals panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as we head to the northwest. Trekking along ridges, we reach Kyanjoma, descend to the Imja River bridge, and head to Phunki Tenga, covering nearly half of today’s trail. The final stretch involves a 2-3 hour climb to Tengboche, housing a renowned monastery with a spiritual ambiance and stunning Himalayan views. Overnight we will stay at a comfortable rea house in Tengboche. 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4410 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s destination will be Dingboche, the highest village on the trail to Everest Base Camp. The trek will kick off with a gentle descent to Deboche, passing by Chortens and prayer stones. After a couple of hours, we will reach Pangboche, home to the Khumbu region’s oldest monastery. Continuing for an hour beyond Pangboche, we will get to the small village of Somare. Following a winding trail along the Imja River, we will gradually ascend and, after about 3 hours, will arrive at Dingboche. This entry point to the Khumbu Valley will offer stunning landscapes, alpine vegetation, and a glimpse into the rich Sherpa culture at higher altitudes. We will spend the night in Dingboche.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4910 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s trek starts with a gradual ascend through a valley with stunning views of Ama Dablam and Lhotse, passing the trekkers’s aid post in Pheriche. The trail then steepens to the Thukla, and then we ascend to Lobuche, crossing the rocky trail alongside the Khumbu Glacier. Overnight,  we will stay in Lobuche at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5140 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embarking from Lobuche, the starting point for Everest Base Camp, we will travel through the difficult terrain of the Khumbu Valley. After crossing a tributary glacier, we will reach the sparse grass island below Kala Patthar in Gorak Shep, a hub for trekkers. Following lunch, a 3-hour trek will take us to Everest Base Camp via the New Moraine route on the Khumbu Glacier. We capture memories at the Everest Base camp before returning for an overnight stay in Gorak Shep.

 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5600 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Prepare for a beautiful view of sunrise of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar. After capturing this once-in-a-lifetime scenery, we descend to Gorak Shep for refreshments. Following our route back to Lobuche, we will head to Pheriche, where a permanent clinic by the Himalayan Rescue Association, staffed with foreign doctors, provides medical facilities. Overnight stay in Pheriche.

 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5600 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will start a journey from Pheriche to Tengboche to Khumjung. The day is filled with a 5–6-hour trek through various landscapes, showing amazing views of snowy mountains and green valleys. The path will continue through small villages that offer us a local culture and the unique way of life of the Sherpa people. After a few hours of trekking, Khumjung welcomes us, where we can see stunning mountain scenery. Overnight,  we will stay in Khumjung.

 

 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3790 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The trekking journey from Khumjung to Luka offers us a beautiful view of Everest and Ama Dablam. As we make our way, we’ll pass through charming Sherpa villages, lush forests, and landscapes. At each step, we will get the opportunity to see the rich local culture and warm hospitality of the Himalayas. After 7 to 8 hours of trek, our Jiri Everest Base Camp journey concludes at Lukla. Overnight, we will stay at a tea house.

 

 

 

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 2860 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, early in the morning, we will fly from Lukla to Manthali, which will take approximately 35 minutes. Then we’ll drive back to Kathmandu. Once we arrive, we will be transferred to the hotel. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.

 

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast and Dinner

It’s also a day off in case Lukla experiences bad weather. On this nice day, you will spend the entire day at your leisure, or you may extend your trip with us at an additional expense, or you may use the time to explore Thamel for last-minute shopping, and the evening company will meet you for the farewell dinner.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

As our wonderful Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours before your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your trekking journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and  Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek offers various transportation options, including bus, jeep, and helicopter.

It is highly recommended to have travel insurance when undertaking the Jiri to Everest Base Camp expedition. Ensure that your insurance plan includes provisions for emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, loss of personal belongings, and personal liability coverage.

Certainly, most tea houses and lodges along the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek provide facilities for charging electronic devices such as cameras and smartphones. Nevertheless, they might impose an extra fee for this service.

Certainly! Mobile network service is accessible at specific locations along the Jiri to Everest Base Camp route. Nevertheless, the availability and reliability of connectivity may be restricted. Additionally, certain tea shops offer Wi-Fi, but it could incur an extra cost.

There are no specified age restrictions for the Jiri to Everest Base Camp journey. Nevertheless, participants should be in excellent physical condition and consult with a medical professional before starting the trek, particularly if they have any existing health issues.

There is a scarcity of ATMs along the Jiri to Everest Base Camp route. It is advisable to carry sufficient Nepalese rupees in cash throughout your expedition. While certain tea houses and lodges may offer currency exchange services, be aware that the exchange rates might not be favorable.

Consuming untreated water from taps or streams along the Jiri to Everest Base Camp route is generally discouraged. It is recommended to opt for boiled or treated water available at tea shops, or utilize water purification tablets or filters.

Throughout the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek, you'll have numerous chances to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Everest and various other majestic peaks. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to admire Mount Lhotse (8,516 meters), Nuptse (7,855 meters), Ama Dablam (6,812 meters), Kangtega (6,782 meters), Thamserku (6,623 meters), and many other stunning mountains.

The toilet facilities along the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trail are basic. Most tea houses and lodges have communal squat toilets, and you may need to pay for hot showers. It's advisable to bring your own toilet paper.

A reasonable level of physical fitness is necessary for the journey from Jiri to Everest Base Camp. Adequate preparation, including engaging in aerobic exercises, weight training, and practicing hiking, will greatly contribute to successfully completing the trek with ease.

There are basic medical facilities available along the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trail, particularly in Namche Bazaar and Pheriche. Nevertheless, it is crucial to be self-sufficient as the available facilities are limited. It is advisable to trek with a reputable trekking agency and consider obtaining travel insurance for additional assistance in the Himalayas.

Certainly! Altitude sickness poses a potential risk during any trek in the Everest region, including the Jiri to Everest Base Camp route. It's crucial to acclimatize adequately, stay well-hydrated, refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages, and ascend gradually. These measures help minimize the chances of encountering altitude-related illnesses.

Certainly, the journey from Jiri to Everest Base Camp presents a greater challenge due to its more conventional and lengthier route. The path involves numerous challenging inclines and declines, requiring trekkers to anticipate extended days of hiking. Nevertheless, individuals with an adventurous spirit, adequate physical fitness, and proper acclimatization can successfully undertake this trek.