Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek: 22 Days

At a Glance

Duration 22 Days
Trip Grade Strenuous
Destination Nepal
Start/End KTM/KTM
Group Size 1-12
Max. Altitude 5545

Highlights

A perfect Everest base camp trek package if you want to spend a long time in the mountains
Escape the overwhelming Lukla - Kathmandu flight
Gradually ascends, following lush rhododendron forests and the Dudh Koshi river
Experience an authentic mountain lifestyle and explore the untouched part of the Solu-Khumbu region
Follow the footsteps of the biggest legends in the mountain community, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa
Cross many small passes, hanging bridges, and visit ancient monasteries on the way
Spend nights in beautiful Sherpa villages and come across a wide range of vegetation, animals, and birds
Leave the treeline and trek on the glacier, steep-trodden paths, crossing avalanche debris and boulder fields
Reach Everest base camp and hike to Kala Patthar
Witness stunning mountain panoramas

Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek: 22 Days

Jiri Everest base camp trek is the longest EBC trek package out there. This package does not involve the overwhelming Kathmandu Lukla flight and allows trekkers to spend a long time in the mountains. The trekking route gradually ascends, following lush rhododendron forests and the Dudh Koshi River. As the trek progresses, the dense forests open up to meadows and glacial moraines.

Not many travelers do Jiri Everest base camp trekking, so the initial part of the trail (up to Phakding) is not crowded. You will get to experience an authentic mountain lifestyle and explore the untouched part of the Solu-Khumbu region before joining the mainstream bustling Everest base camp trail from Phakding (2,610 m) onwards.

Jiri Everest base camp trekking is also known as the classic route to the base of Mount Everest (8,849 m), as this same itinerary was followed by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa during their Everest expedition. You will be retracing the footsteps of the biggest legends in the mountain community while enjoying the warm hospitality of the villagers.

From Bhandar, the starting point of Jiri Everest base camp trek, it takes six days of walking through Sherap villages to reach Phakding. From Phakding onwards, you will be following the general route to EBC via villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. The Jiri Everest base camp trekking route is much more adventurous as it crosses many small passes and explores fine villages before you even reach Phakding.

The Jiri Everest base camp trek is a 22-day-long venture in Nepal. You will trek to the base of the highest mountain in the world during these 22 days. On the way, cross many hanging bridges and visit ancient monasteries. Likewise, come across a wide range of vegetation, animals, and birds. And the small unexpected interactions with the locals make the Jiri to Everest base camp trekking even more fascinating.

Jiri Everest base camp trek attractions

Perfect Everest base camp trek itinerary without Kathmandu Lukla flight

If you are not a fan of the nerve-racking Kathmandu Lukla flight, then the Jiri Everest Base Camp trek is a great option for you. Instead of the flight, you will drive to the starting point of the trek. The drive will be 8 to 9 hours long but very scenic.

Beautiful villages, Sherpas, and their lifestyle

We stop at beautiful villages to spend the night during the Jiri Everest Base Camp trek. The locals, their warm hospitality and friendly nature will win your heart. You will not feel new and unwelcomed. In a matter of time, the villages and villagers will become your home, and you'll not even realize it.

Likewise, along with Sherpas, people of other communities, such as Lamas, Bhotiyas, Limbus, Rais, etc, also reside in the Khumbu region. These are mountain people and the natives of the Himalayas. Their lifestyle in this extreme part of the world will astound you.

Adventurous trail winding through stunning river valleys

Talking about adventure, there wouldn't be a day on Jiri Everest Base Camp trekking you will not feel excited, and your heart won't get thrilled. This venture will bring you to life and motivate you to do your best to live every single day.

The trail ascends and descends through dense forests. Cross-gushing rivers and streams via old wooden bridges and hanging suspension bridges. Pass by cascading waterfalls and walk alongside narrow foothills. Trek on glacier and boulder fields.

The Sagarmatha National park and its abundant flora & fauna

If you love birds and vegetation, then this trek is a paradise for you. Given the nature of the journey and the geographical difference, you will come across a wide species of flowers and plants. Likewise, witness exotic birds and occasionally animals. Share trails with mules and yaks. Walk through beautiful rhododendron, pine, oak, fir, magnolia, etc forests.

Diverse landscapes and mountain views

The landscapes during the Jiri Everest Base Camp trek range from lush green forests and beautiful valleys to barren hills and glaciers. Hills open up to giant snow-capped mountains. At every turn in the trail, you will find yourself surrounded by mesmerizing nature. Home to mountains, they will be your constant companion throughout the trek.

To name some of the mountains, Everest (8,849 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Makalu (8,481 m), Island Peak (6,160 m), Cholatse (6,440 m), Pumori (7,161 m), Chamlang (7,319 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), etc.

Amazing acclimatization hikes

We have two acclimatization days during the Jiri Everest Base Camp trekking. One we spend in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), hiking to Everest View Hotel (3,962 m), and the second we spend in Dingboche village (4,410 m). In Dingboche village, we will hike to Nagarjuna Hill (5,100 m). You will have plenty of time to rest and recover. Likewise, spend more time with the locals.

Visit ancient monasteries

Stupas, monasteries, prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls are constants during the Jiri Everest Base Camp trek. Trekking in the Himalayas goes way beyond adventure. You will be unraveling the ancient culture of the locals and have a peek into their religious roots.

As the Jiri Everest Base Camp trek route goes from one village to another, we stop at monasteries. Tengboche monastery (3,860 m) and Pangboche monastery (3,985 m) are two significant ones you will be visiting on this trek.

Reach Everest base camp and Kala Patthar

After 12 days of trekking and all the challenges, you will finally reach the base of the highest mountain in the world, Everest base camp (5,364 m). It will be a surreal moment for you as all your hard work will pay off. The base camp is home to mountaineers. The view of Khumbu icefall and the surrounding will amaze you.

Likewise, the last destination you touch before trekking back to Lukla is Kala Patthar (5,644 m). It is a very popular viewpoint that offers a breathtaking panorama of Everest and numerous other mountains. The sunrise from this point is also sensational.

Take a stimulating flight from Lukla to Kathmandu

From Lukla airstrip, you fly back to Kathmandu by marking the end of the journey. This fight is nerve-racking. From take-off to landing, you get to see wonderful views of the Himalayas.

You'll Experience

Everest Base Camp

Itinerary

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek is a long and adventurous journey in the Solu Khumbu Region for 22 days and this route is the classic route to Everest Base Camp. The Jiri EBC trek route was the only route to reach Everest Base camp before the Airport in Lukla was built. So, it was a popular trekking route in Nepal. However, now most trekkers prefer to take a flight to Lukla and trek to EBC as the Jiri-EBC route is long, and most people cannot afford long holidays.

Even though only people take the route of Jiri to Everest Base Camp, the route is beautiful with lots of ups and downs, landscapes, river valleys, and mountain terraces. Another benefit of doing the trek from Jiri is less chance to get acute mountain sickness as you trek from a low altitude and you gradually trek to Everest base camp, which is helpful to digest the altitude which is lacking on the regular Everest Base Camp Trek from Lukla. The Trek from Jiri is the best for those having long holidays and want to experience the real trekking adventures in the Himalaya.

The 22-Day Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek includes your arrival and departure days to and from Nepal and there are a few nights in Kathmandu pre and post-trek. The Itinerary is a guideline itinerary that we offer, however, We at Outfitter Himalayas are always happy to offer you a customized program as per your time and needs.

Upon your arrival at the Kathmandu airport, you will be greeted by a representative from our company. They will transfer you to the hotel. We will use a private car or van, depending on the group size.

After checking in and freshening up, you will have the rest of the day to relax and explore the surrounding area of the hotel.

AccommodationHotel
Max. Altitude1345

We have a full-day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu on this day. Kathmandu is a historic and culturally rich city, home to many ancient temples, shrines, and monuments. Some of the popular places we will visit are Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. All these tourist sites are part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In the late evening, we will introduce you to the trek guide and prepare for the trek. Pack the duffel bags and do last-minute shopping.

MealsB
AccommodationHotel
Max. Altitude1345

We will leave Kathmandu early in the morning. Following the Arniko highway, we pass by Banepa and Dhulikhel. The route offers stunning views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lhakpa. Slowly, enjoying the view, we’ll pass by Dolalghat, following the Sunkoshi River to the north and continue to Bhandar.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2140

From Bhandar to Sete village, it is a short trek. We will walk through lush forests and small villages. The scenery along the way is fantastic. The serene surroundings and interactions with the locals make the day exciting.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2500

Trek on an uphill route that leads to Lamjura pass (3,530 m). On the way, we will witness wonderful mountain views and hills covered with rhododendrons. We’ll then walk to Goyem. It is the highest point between Jiri and Namche Bazaar. Further, descend to Tragdobuk and follow the track to Junbesi.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2700

From Junbesi, we will walk up to Salung and continue trekking through Salleri village. Further, walk by Ringmo Khola and the lovely apple garden. The route then descends, and we walk on an uphill trail that leads to Takshindo pass (3,170 m). From here, we reach Nunthala village.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2194

Cross the Dudh Koshi river and gradually walk through meadows and terraced fields. The trail passes by Chautara, where we take a small break. From here, we walk following a river and reach Jubing at 1,667 meters. Further, ascend to Khari Khola (2,400 m) and trek to Bupsa Danda for the night stay.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2340

Leaving Bupsa, we walk alongside the Dudh Koshi River. The trail ascends along the lush forests. Mountains like Thamserku, Kangtega, and Kusum Kanguru are seen on the way. We will walk by Sureke village and gradually trek to Puiyan. It is a small and peaceful village located on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2730

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and passes through rhododendron and juniper forests. On the way, we can see superb views of Kusum Kanguru and Thamserku. Trekking through Ghat village, we cross many suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River on the way to Phakding.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2610

We will begin the day with a delicious breakfast. The trail today goes to the popular town of Namche Bazaar. Following the Dudh Koshi River and passing through beautiful rhododendron and juniper forests, we will walk, enjoying great views of the surrounding peaks such as Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega.

The trail also passes through Jorsale, where we can see a glimpse of the local culture and way of life. As the trail ascends to Namche Bazaar, the views of the mountains become more spectacular. Namche Bazaar is a vibrant and bustling town known as the gateway to Mount Everest.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude3440

The main purpose of this day is to acclimatize to the high altitude. To acclimatize we will go on a hike to the Hotel Everest View. During the hike we'll see views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Everest. Later in the day, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery in Namche Bazaar, if time permits.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude3440

Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through beautiful rhododendron and juniper forests, offering great views of the surrounding peaks such as Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega.

The trail also passes through the traditional Sherpa village of Sanasa and offers a glimpse of the local culture and way of life. Tengboche is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in the Khumbu region and a must-see destination for trekkers in the area.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude3860

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through beautiful rhododendron and juniper forests, offering great views of the surrounding peaks such as Ama Dablam and Lhotse. The trail also passes through small villages and lush rhododendron forests. As the elevation increases, the trail becomes more challenging & the air gets thinner.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude4410

Today is a rest day in Dingboche. The main purpose of this day is to acclimatize to the high altitude and prepare for the next leg of the trek. Acclimatization is important because as altitude increases, there is less oxygen in the air which can cause altitude sickness.

To acclimatize, we will take a short hike to nearby hills or simply take it easy, rest and hydrate. Dingboche is a beautiful and traditional Sherpa village, surrounded by stunning mountain views, and offers an opportunity to explore the local culture and interact with the friendly locals.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude4410

The trail follows the Imja Khola River and passes through small Sherpa villages and beautiful alpine forests. As the elevation increases, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, but the views of the Pheriche and Cholatse make the effort worth it. Navigating the Dughla pass, we'll reach Lobuche, a small village located in the shadows of some of the highest peaks in the world.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude4910

We have a long strenuous day ahead of us today. The trek starts with a trek from Lobuche and then to Gorak Shep, a small settlement located at the base of Kala Patthar. After arriving at Gorak Shep, we will make the final push to the base camp of Mount Everest. The trail to the base camp is rocky and rugged. After visiting the base camp, return to Gorak Shep for the night.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude5364

Today is a challenging but rewarding day, starting with a hike to the summit of Kala Patthar for panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After taking in the views, we will descend to the village of Pheriche.

The descent to Pheriche is steep and can be challenging, but it offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Pheriche is a small village known for its traditional Sherpa culture and excellent guesthouses.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude5545

From Pheriche, the trail goes back to Namche Bazaar. We will be walking alongside uneven hills and forested paths. Enjoy wonderful landscapes while descending.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude3440

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we will descend steeply and join a densely forested route. On the way, we will recross all the bridges and walk past small settlements. From Phakding villages, the trail ascends through rhododendron forests, following the Dudh Koshi River.

MealsB, L, D
AccommodationGuest House
Max. Altitude2840

Early in the morning, we will take a short flight back to Kathmandu. Upon landing, our team will drop you at the hotel. The remaining day is free. Enjoy the day relaxing and exploring the local market. Do window shopping in Thamel and visit tourist sites.

Note: Lukla Flight Updates!

MealsB
AccommodationHotel
Max. Altitude1345

You have a full day in Kathmandu. We highly recommend visiting Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square today. You can go by yourself, or we can arrange a guide for you. We will meet you for a farewell dinner and end the day with lots of delicious food and cultural music.

MealsB
AccommodationHotel
Max. Altitude1345

Our airport team will transfer you to the international airport for your flight back home on this day. They will help with your luggage. Make sure to pack all of your stuff.

MealsB

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Map & Altitude Graph

Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek map

Inclusions

Airport transfers
Four-night Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
A day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) on the trek
Accommodations in lodges on the trekking
A guide & porters (1 porter for every two trekkers and a porter carry about 20-22 KG from 2 of you)
Paper works, National park entry permits & TIMS permit
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
Ground transport by local bus
Flight fare from Lukla - Kathmandu with airport tax
Arrangement of emergency helicopter service, which will be paid by your travel insurance company
Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffel bag, if Necessary (return after the trek)

Exclusions

Nepal Entry visa fee
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Meals (Lunch and Dinner) while you are in Kathmandu
Your personnel expenses/shopping
Entrance fees on Kathmandu tour
All the alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
Sweet things like chocolate bars and bar bills
Hot shower, internet, telephone and laundry
International airfare
Tips for the guide and staffs
Anything not mentioned in the included section

Essential Info

Who can join the Jiri Everest base camp trek

Thanks to the slow pace of the Jiri Everest base camp trek, we recommend this trek to all age groups. You can join this trek as a beginner trekker too. However, the 22 days Jiri Everest base camp trek itinerary is perfect for first-time trekkers. You will get a lot of time to enjoy the trek and acclimatize. Once you touch the high elevation, your body will be well adapted to the mountain surroundings, which will make the further journey much more bearable.

Jiri Everest base camp trek difficulty

Jiri Everest base camp trek begins with an easy walk through lush subtropical forests and gradually follows verdant foothills. The trail crosses many passes and involves a minimum of 6 hours of walking most days. As the trek progresses, the terrain advances to steeper and rocky sections. From subtropical forests, you will ascend to alpine forests and slowly come above the treeline.

From Dingboche onwards, you'll leave the treeline and walk on the actual glacier (Dughla) to reach Lobuche village. The terrain now follows the Khumbu glacier. You will be walking on steep-trodden paths, crossing avalanche debris and boulder fields.

Similarly, with the increase in elevation, the facilities in the lodge also get limited. You will be asked to adjust more and rely on whatever is available. The harsh surroundings will tire you sooner than you think and demand good fitness to stay this long in the mountains.

Altitude sickness on Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek

The Jiri Everest base camp trek goes from 2,140 meters to 5,644 meters. You can see the elevation gain during this trek is huge, so the risk of altitude sickness is also high. However, what makes Jiri Everest base camp trekking special is the gradual increase in elevation. Your body will get ample time to adjust to the elevation.

On top of that, we also have additional two full-day acclimatization in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche villages. If you feel any discomfort while trekking, inform your guide and follow his guidance. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated to avoid altitude sickness. Likewise, do not consume alcohol or smoke if you have an ascent ahead of you.

Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek preparation

The Jiri Everest base camp trek demands good health and fitness. As you have to walk 6 hours a day, your health and fitness matter a lot. To be well prepared for this 22-day journey, get fit physically and mentally.

Mental fitness involves your ability to adjust to limited facilities and be okay with what is available. Understand the mountain lifestyle and the cultural heritage of the locals, which will be very unique to you.

For physical fitness, you can go on regular walks and exercise. Build your strength and stamina. Get involved in cardio activities like swimming, cycling, running, hiking, etc.

Optional trekking packages

We have many adventurous trekking packages in the Himalayas for experienced and beginner trekkers. And you can customize any itinerary with us.

Some of our best trekking packages are the Everest base camp trek helicopter return, Gokyo Lake Renjo La Pass trek, Ama Dablam base camp trek, Langtang Valley trek, Langtang Gosainkunda trek, Annapurna base camp trek, Annapurna circuit trek, and Poon hill trek.

Likewise, we also have a range of short hikes, luxury tours, climbing packages, and budget-friendly trips in Nepal.

Other trails that you can join in Everest Region

Everest High Passes Trek: You can join the Everest high pass trek once you reach Dingboche since the Jiri Everest base camp trek only goes to base camp and return to Lukla. If you have enough time and want to explore more adventure, then you can join the high pass by joining the Everest high passes trek. Contact us for the itinerary and price for these options.

Go Over Chola: We have another Trek that includes the EBC, Cho La pass, and Gokyo Lake. So, if you have enough time, and want to go over the Cho La pass, then take the Cho la pass trail once you visit the EBC and contact us for the itinerary and price for this inclusion.

Summit Island Peak: Once you visit the EBC, then you have another option to go Dingbuche and go for the Island peak so, contact us for the itinerary and price to include Island peak climb on this Jiri Everest Base camp trek.

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