Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek - 19 Days

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Trip Facts
  • Duration 26 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5550 m
  • Group Size 2-15
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Trip Style Trekking

Trip Overview

Classic Route To The Roof of the World Used By Early Mountaineers Before The Lukla Airport Was Built.

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is more than just a journey to the world's highest mountain—it’s an immersive experience into the heart of Nepal, its landscapes, culture, and traditions. This is the original route taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953, before the Lukla airport existed. Trekking from Jiri not only allows for better acclimatization but also provides a rich cultural experience, untouched by mass tourism. If you seek a classic Himalayan adventure, this trek is the perfect alternative to the Lukla flight, letting you walk through the real Nepal, step by step.

A Journey Through Time and Tradition

This trek is a cultural and historical odyssey, starting from the green hills and terraced farmlands of the lower Solu region before gradually merging into the high-altitude Sherpa settlements of the Khumbu Valley. The first few days take you through traditional Rai and Sherpa villages, where farmers cultivate crops and locals carry out their daily lives, far from the bustle of commercial trekking hubs.

Along the way, you’ll experience the warm hospitality of Nepalese tea houses, taste authentic local foods, and witness a lifestyle that has remained unchanged for centuries. Tibetan Buddhist culture flourishes in the Khumbu region, with ancient monasteries like Tengboche and Pangboche, prayer wheels, Mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags guiding your path.

Proper Acclimatization And Altitude Sickness – A Safer and Healthier Ascent

One of the greatest benefits of taking the Jiri to EBC route is the natural acclimatization process. Unlike the standard Lukla-to-EBC trek, which jumps from 2,800m to over 3,440m in just two days, this route allows your body to gradually adjust to increasing altitudes over a week-long trek.

This means:                                           

  • Reduced risk of altitude sickness – Your body gets plenty of time to adapt.
  • A more enjoyable experience – Less discomfort, more energy to appreciate the beauty around you.
  • Better physical endurance – The gradual climb strengthens your trekking stamina.
  • If you’re worried about altitude-related issues, this trek is the safest way to reach Everest Base Camp.

No Lukla Flight Hassles – A Smooth Alternative

In recent years, flights to Lukla have faced challenges due to unpredictable weather, delays, and rerouting from Kathmandu to Manthali Airport ( 4-hour drive from Kathmandu). These logistical headaches often disrupt trekking plans, leaving travelers stranded for days.

By starting from Jiri, you eliminate these uncertainties and experience a land route rich in beauty, history, and cultural depth. You don’t just fly into the Everest region—you earn your way into it, step by step.

Who Can Do the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek (18 days) is a rewarding yet challenging journey that requires trekkers to have solid fitness levels and endurance. While it is suitable for experienced trekkers, it is also doable for determined beginners who are physically prepared and willing to push through the tough, high-altitude terrain. However, beginners may find it physically demanding, especially considering the long hours of trekking each day, steep ascents, and the need to adjust to high altitudes.

Fitness Preparation

This trek involves trekking for about 6-8 hours per day on varied, rugged terrain, making strength, stamina, and endurance crucial. In addition to physical preparation, the trek is mentally demanding. You will need to adapt to basic living conditions, including simple meals, offline time, and a slower pace of life. The trek requires embracing a simpler, quieter way of life far from city distractions, making it important to enjoy the tranquil surroundings, connect with locals and fellow trekkers, and appreciate the nature and culture of the region.

How to Prepare for the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

Physical Training

Strength Training: Focus on leg and core strength to handle the steep climbs and long walking hours.

Aerobic Workouts: Include cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve endurance.

Day Hikes: Practice hiking on trails with elevation changes to simulate the trek's physical demands.

 

Itinerary

Note : It is suggested to have a contingency day in hand for this trek . Doing so it allows you to be flexible in terms of any weather scenarios or health upsets and also to breakdown ( Phakding O/N) the last stretch to Lukla.

Day-to-day Plan
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Arriving at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport is the first step of your adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Once you collect your luggage and clear customs, you will be greeted warmly by your Trekking Group Leader or our Office Representative with a "Mystical Nepal Treks" board who will assist you and transfer you to your hotel.

Although Kathmandu is the busiest city in Nepal with hectic traffic, it still holds a unique charm with its local beauty and lively atmosphere. You will enjoy the fun of driving through its unfamiliar roads. The drive to the hotel will take you through Kathmandu’s lively streets, where the old and new come together. You’ll pass by ancient temples, busy markets, and modern shops, all blending into the colorful culture of Nepal.

Highlights:

  • Airport pickup.
  • Transfer to the hotel with your Group Leader.
  • Brief introduction about your trip.
  • Early arrival gives you a chance to explore Kathmandu.

Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593 feet
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Distance: 6 km
Transport: Airport Pickup

Enjoy your time and relax as you prepare for your trek ahead!

Half-day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. Key sites include: Pashupatinath Temple – A major Hindu, temple by the Bagmati River. Boudhanath Stupa – One of the largest stupas in the world. Afternoon Trek briefing and final gear preparation.

Early morning scenic drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu (2,413m).

The journey takes around 9-10 hours via winding mountain roads.

Pass through picturesque villages and terraced fields.

Overnight stay in Phaplu

Distance: 14 km

Duration: 6-8 hours walk 

Starting Elevation: Phaplu (2,413m)

Highest Elevation: Taksindu Danda / Taksindu La Pass (3,071m)

Ending Elevation: Nunthala (2,200m)

Route Breakdown

1. Phaplu to Ringmo (2,700m) – 3 to 4 hours

Start the trek from Phaplu along a well-marked uphill trail. Pass through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests. Cross small Sherpa villages like Salleri, the district headquarters of Solukhumbu. Follow the gradual ascent to Ringmo, a small village known for apple orchards and local apple cider.Take a short break and enjoy the scenic views.

2. Ringmo to Taksindu Danda / Taksindu La Pass (3,071m) – 1 hour

Continue climbing uphill towards Taksindu Danda (ridge). Reach Taksindu Monastery, a historic Tibetan Buddhist monastery with stunning mountain views. Trek further up to Taksindu La Pass (3,071m), the highest point of the day. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest (8,848m), Thamserku (6,623m), Kangtega (6,782m), and Mera Peak (6,476m). Descend slightly to Taksindu, where you can rest at teahouses.

3. Taksindu La Pass to Nunthala (2,200m) – 2 to 3 hours

Begin a steep descent through dense forests of oak and rhododendron. Pass small villages with terraced fields. Cross a few wooden bridges and streams along the way. Reach Nunthala, a beautiful Sherpa and Rai settlement, by late afternoon. Check into a teahouse and enjoy a warm meal with views of surrounding hills

 Distance: 12 km

Duration: 5-6 hours walk

Starting Elevation: Nunthala (2,200m)

Lowest Elevation: Dudh Koshi River (1,500m)

Ending Elevation: Bupsa (2,360m)

Route Breakdown

1. Nunthala to Dudh Koshi River (1,500m) – 1.5 to 2 hours

Begin with a steep descent from Nunthala through terraced fields and pine forests. Pass through Rai and Sherpa villages with traditional stone houses. The trail continues downhill to the Dudh Koshi River, a glacial river that originates from Everest. Cross a long suspension bridge over the river, offering scenic views.

2. Dudh Koshi River to Jubing (1,680m) – 1 hour

After crossing the river, start a gradual uphill climb through farmlands. Reach Jubing, a small settlement inhabited mostly by the Rai ethnic group. The area is known for orange groves and subtropical vegetation. Rest briefly and interact with friendly locals.

3. Jubing to Khari Khola (2,010m) – 1.5 hours

Continue trekking uphill, crossing stone-paved paths and village trails. Arrive at Khari Khola, a larger village with teahouses and lodges. This is a good place to stop for lunch, as it has basic yet good food options. The village has a small monastery and a water-driven prayer wheel.

4. Khari Khola to Bupsa (2,360m) – 1.5 hours

After lunch, ascend a steep uphill section through rhododendron and oak forests. The trail is a mix of stone steps and dirt paths. Arrive at Bupsa, a small village perched on a ridge with great views of the valley below. Settle into a teahouse for the night, enjoying a warm meal and resting. This section of the trek is a mix of descents, river crossings, and steep ascents, offering a taste of Nepal's diverse landscapes.

Distance: ~14 km

Duration: 6-7 hours walk

Starting Elevation: Bupsa (2,360m)

Highest Elevation: Kharte (2,740m)

Ending Elevation: Thadokoshi (2,580m)

Route Breakdown

1. Bupsa to Kharte (2,740m) – 1.5 to 2 hours

Begin with a steep uphill climb through dense rhododendron and oak forests. Cross small stone-paved trails, often used by trekkers and locals. Reach Kharte, a small settlement at 2,740m offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

2. Kharte to Paiya (Chutok La Pass, 2,800m) – 1 hour

A short but challenging uphill section leads to Chutok La Pass (2,800m). The trail can be slippery in monsoon or winter due to snow and mud. Descend slightly to Paiya, a small village with a few teahouses. A good place to rest and grab some tea or snacks.

3. Paiya to Surke (2,290m) – 2 hours

Continue descending through lush forests and cross a wooden bridge over a stream. The trail passes through Dudh Koshi Valley, offering glimpses of Lukla’s airstrip from a distance. Arrive at Surke, a quiet village near the Lukla flight path. Many trekkers coming from Jiri stop here before joining the main Everest trail.

4. Surke to Cheplung (2,660m) – 1.5 hours

Gradual uphill walk towards Cheplung passing stone houses and chortens. Enter the main trekking route used by trekkers flying in from Lukla. From Cheplung, you get the first proper view of Mount Khumbila (5,761m), a sacred peak in Sherpa culture.

5. Cheplung to Thadokoshi (2,580m) – 45 minutes

A short descent from Cheplung leads to Thadokoshi, located along the Dudh Koshi River. The village has a beautiful suspension bridge and views of snow-capped peaks. Settle into a teahouse for the night, enjoying local Sherpa hospitality. This section offers a mix of dense forests, steep climbs, and river crossings, eventually merging with the classic Everest Base Camp route

"Are you ready for the gateway to Everest?"

Distance: ~12 km

Duration: 6-7 hours walk

Starting Elevation: Thadokoshi (2,580m) Ending Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Route Breakdown

1. Thadokoshi to Phakding (2,610m) – 1 to 1.5 hours

Cross a long suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. The trail follows a gentle uphill path, passing small Sherpa villages. Reach Phakding, a popular stop for trekkers coming from Lukla. Enjoy beautiful views of green hills, prayer wheels, and Mani stones along the way.

2. Phakding to Monjo (2,835m) – 1.5 to 2 hours

Continue trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several hanging bridges. Pass through villages like Toktok and Bengkar, with great views of Thamserku (6,623m). Arrive at Monjo, where you enter Sagarmatha National Park (permits are checked here). Short break for snacks and permit processing.

3. Monjo to Jorsale (2,740m) – 30 minutes

A short, gradual descent leads to Jorsale, the last village before Namche Bazaar. Rest here and have lunch, as there are no lodges between Jorsale and Namche. Cross another suspension bridge and walk alongside the Dudh Koshi River.

4. Jorsale to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) – 2.5 to 3 hours

Cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, the highest and longest bridge on this route. Begin a steep ascent through pine forests and rugged trails. After about 1.5 hours, reach Toop Danda, a viewpoint where you get the first glimpse of Mount Everest (8,848m) Continue another hour to reach Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital. This section offers a mix of river crossings, gradual ascents, and a tough final climb, making the arrival at Namche Bazaar even more rewarding.

"Why is acclimatization so important?"

Short hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) for stunning Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse views. Visit Sherpa Museum and Namche Monastery.Explore Namche’s bakeries, shops, and gear stores. Total trek time: 3-4 hours (optional hike).

Route Breakdown: Namche -  Kyangjuma - Mong La Pass (3,975m) - Phortse.

"What makes Phortse special?"

The trek climbs gradually to Mongla around 3900m walking on  a quiet trail away from the crowd. Walk along a scenic ridge with Ama Dablam views. Steep descent to Phortse Tenga (3,680m), then a climb to Phortse. A quieter, less crowded route than the regular EBC, Tengboche trail. We stay in one of the Everest Summiter’s teahouse overnight.

RouteBreakdown: Phortse - Pangboche via upper trail -  Shomare - Dingboche.

Highlights: Great views of Ama Dablam and the Everest range.Pass through traditional Sherpa villages.

Visit Pangboche Monastery, the oldest in the Khumbu region. A gradual climb with expanding alpine landscapes. Dingboche offers acclimatization and stunning valley views.

Hike to Chukung village for great walk and explore the Island Peak valley.

“ How excited are you to be so close to your dream EBC getting so close?”

RouteBreakdown: Dingboche - Thukla - Thukla Pass (4,830m) - Lobuche

The morning start is walking on a high alpine gradual flat until you climb a gentle uphill slope to Thukla junction and climb to Lobuche. Walk past memorial sites legendary Everest climbers like Scott Fisher and many more, all great souls who unfortunately could not make down safe. RIP offerings with a short pray.

"What does it feel like to stand at Everest Base Camp?"

Route Breakdown: Lobuche - Gorak Shep -EBC

Walk along the Khumbu Glacier’s moraine. Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp and enjoy breathtaking views of Khumbu Icefall and celebrate the accomplishment of dream EBC landmark. Savour a lifetime achievement of your dream come true. Overnight rest at Gorak Shep before the next day's Kalapathar hike.

"Is this the best Everest sunrise?"

Early morning hike to Kala Patthar, , the best Everest sunrise viewpoint. Experience and be immersed with the  close-up views of Everest with 360 degree Himalayan vista, savour a lifetime achievement.. Descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast, then trek down to Pheriche.

"How does it feel to return to lower altitudes?"

Walk through Pangboche and Tengboche , home to the famous monastery. A good  Tea Break at Tengboche Monastery hilltop panaroma of 220 degree. Celebrate the trek’s success at Namche.

Route: Namche - Jorsale - Monjo - Phakding.

Today we start late just soaking in the charm of Namche Bazar. Retracing the same trail, descending is faster, but knees get tired. More oxygen as altitude drops, making it an easier trek.

Begin the steep downhill descent from Namche, passing Chortens and prayer flags. The first major stop is Larja Dovan (2,800m), where the trail crosses the Hillary Suspension Bridge, the highest of the trek. Descend further along the Dudh Koshi River, stop for lunch at Jorsale (2,825m) and enter Sagarmatha National Park's lower zone. After lunch, continue downhill through Benkar and enjoy views of Thamserku (6,608m). Arrive at Phakding (2,610m) in the late afternoon.

 

"One last trek through the Himalayas!"

Have breakfast and start trekking along the Dudh Koshi River. Cross several suspension bridges, passing through small Sherpa villages like Toshin and Chheplung (2,660m). A gradual uphill climb leads to Lukla (2,840m), the gateway to Everest. Arrive in Lukla by midday, check into a lodge, and enjoy a well-earned rest. Celebrate the final day in the mountain with a farewell dinner with guides and porters, it’s time for thanks giving and felicitation to your trekking crew.

"Back to civilization, but forever changed?"

Scenic flight to Kathmandu. Leisure time to explore the city or just relax and rewind the times in the mountain.

"Where will your next adventure take you?

Transfer to the airport for your flight home

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Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pick up and drop in a private vehicle as per the itinerary.
  • Hotel accommodation on B.B Basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara as per the itinerary.
  • Teahouse(lodge) accommodation during the trek.
  • Meals during the trek as per the Trip package. For Full Board all meals B.fast, lunch and dinner with a cup of hot  beverage of choice.
  • Welcome Dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant with cultural show, beverages not included.
  • Use of warm gears such as Sleeping bag, Liner, Down jacket and Big Duffle bag.
  • Domestic flights as per the itinerary.
  • All applicable Permits for National Park entrance and tours to World heritage sites as per the trip package.
  • An experienced English speaking Group Leader and Guide for the Trek and Tours.
  • Service of  Assistanct Sherpa and Porters during the treks.
  • Staff Cost including the Insurance, Wages, Meals and Domestic flights during the trek and Climbing is covered.
  • All necessary Government and Local Taxes.
Excludes
  • International Fare and Visa Fee (US$25 FOR 15 Days, US$ 40 FOR 30 Days)
  • Any Travel and  rescue insurance.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara, also in some tours as per the trip package.
  • Personal expenses on laundry, beverages, cameras and gadgets charging and hot showers in treks and tours.
  • Excess Baggage charges at the Domestic airport.
  • Extra expenses due to flight delays and cancellations.
  • Extra Night in Kathmandu or Pokhara hotel because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any unforeseen reason).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (also in the case of early return from mountain).
  • Gratuity and Tips for the Local trekking staff, guides and drivers.

Note: No Visa required for Indian nationals.

Essential Information

Trek Difficulty

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure. While it offers a unique and authentic approach to reaching Everest, the trek involves demanding, off-the-beaten-path terrain and fluctuating high-altitude environments. As you trek towards Everest Base Camp, you will experience a variety of landscapes, from lush hillsides to rugged mountain paths, with a significant ascent in altitude as you move closer to the Everest region. The trail is not as crowded as the standard Lukla-EBC route, which makes it a more serene and peaceful journey.

While this trek is certainly physically demanding, it is a safe and feasible challenge for first-time trekkers who are in good physical shape and adventure seekers looking for an authentic Himalayan experience. With proper preparation and pacing, even those new to trekking can enjoy the journey. However, trekkers should be aware that the trek is long and involves 6 to 8 hours of walking daily through varied and sometimes difficult terrain, which can be taxing at higher elevations.

Key Factors Affecting Difficulty

Elevation: The trek gradually ascends to higher altitudes, and proper acclimatization is key to avoiding altitude sickness. The trek allows for natural acclimatization over the course of several days, which is a safer approach than the more rapid ascent of other EBC routes.

Terrain: The path includes dense forests, rocky trails, and high-altitude sections. Trekking on rugged terrain and navigating steep inclines will require stamina and endurance.

Duration: The trek typically takes 18 days, with a daily walking time of 6-7 hours on average. It's a test of physical endurance, so it's important to train beforehand.

However, safety is a top priority on this trek, and the Jiri to EBC route is considered safe for adventure seekers and first-time trekkers who are properly prepared. With good health, fitness, and a positive mindset, you can complete the journey successfully and safely.

Trek Essentials

Trek Distance and Duration

Distance: On average, you will trek around 188 kilometers from Jiri to Everest Base Camp.

Daily Walking Hours: Trekking hours usually vary between 6 to 8 hours per day.

The trek involves both ascents and descents, with the final ascent to Everest Base Camp offering the most rewarding views.

Tourist Infrastructure

Along the Jiri-EBC route, the tourist infrastructure is more basic compared to more commercialized trekking routes. You will stay in tea houses, which offer simple but comfortable accommodation. These tea houses provide shared rooms and basic facilities like hot showers, Wi-Fi (in some places), and charging options for a small fee.

Camping is not required, making it more accessible, even for first-timers. You can expect to stay in family-run guesthouses and enjoy traditional Nepali hospitality.

Food and Drinking Water

Food along the route includes traditional dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and other locally prepared meals like fried rice and Tibetan bread.

Boiled drinking water is available throughout the trek, but trekkers are advised to use water purification tablets or a water filter for safety.

Snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates are available in Kathmandu, but it’s a good idea to carry extra snacks with you for longer trekking days.

Travel Insurance

Since this trek takes you into more remote and high-altitude areas, travel insurance that includes helicopter evacuation is highly recommended. In case of any emergency, this will ensure that you have access to prompt medical help and evacuation if necessary.

We also suggest that your insurance includes medical coverage and protection against loss of personal belongings.

Permits for the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek:-

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Approximately USD 30.
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Permit: Around USD 20.

These permits are required for all trekkers to enter protected areas in the Everest region and are typically arranged in Kathmandu.Best Time to Do the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

The best time to do the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is March to May and September to November when the weather is stable, and the views of the mountains are clear. These months provide ideal conditions for trekking, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C to 20°C at lower altitudes and much colder temperatures at higher elevations (down to -10°C or lower).

For trekkers looking for fewer crowds and a more serene experience, the off-season months of June to August and December to February can also be considered. However, expect colder weather and the possibility of snow at higher altitudes, especially in winter.

Accommodation & Food During the Trek

You will stay in tea houses along the Jiri to EBC route. These tea houses offer shared rooms, basic amenities, and three meals a day, typically including dishes like dal bhat, momo, thukpa, and Tibetan bread. Some locations offer Western food options like pasta or fried rice.

Additional expenses for services such as Wi-Fi, charging, and hot showers can add up to around USD 15-20 per day. Private rooms are available but will cost extra, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes.

FAQs

Definitely! Our airport representative or your group Leader will be there catering you from day of your arrival till departure. Do check for Mystical Nepal Treks clip board on your arrival in Kathmandu airport outside the arrival terminal hall. Make sure you have provided your flight details to us in advance.

Yes, you can obtain Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. In fact for some countries Nepal visa is to be prearranged from their country itself prior to their entry to Nepal. For more details please check Nepal Visa and Entry Procedure in the website

All  our trip itinerary have an arrival and departure day from Kathmandu so you can arrive and leave Kathmandu as per the program. You are also welcome and encouraged to arrive a day earlier or leave Nepal a day later to have a look around the vibrant Kathmandu Valley. Mystical Nepal Treks will help arrange any extra activities as per your interest outside the main package.

26 Days
Price from US$2050 (All-Inclusive Price)
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