Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is a classic trekking route in Nepal that follows the same path used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa during their 1953 Everest expedition. It offers a longer and more traditional route compared to the popular Lukla to EBC trek.

The trek typically takes about 20 days to complete, including acclimatization days and travel from Kathmandu to Jiri and from Lukla back to Kathmandu.

The best times to undertake the trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is stable and visibility is clear.

The trek is strenuous due to its length and the altitude involved. It does not require technical climbing skills but does demand good physical fitness and stamina.

You will need a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit to undertake this trek.

The highest point on the trek is Kala Patthar, which stands at 5,545 meters (18,192 feet).

You start with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jiri, which takes about 8 hours.

While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have a guide for safety, navigation, and cultural insights.

Accommodation is primarily in teahouses, which provide basic lodging and meals along the trail.

Essential items include trekking boots, warm clothing, a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a first aid kit. Detailed packing lists are available from various trekking guides and websites.

The route starts from Jiri, passes through Bhandar, Sete, Junbesi, Nunthala, Bupsa, and joins the traditional Everest Base Camp route at Lukla, continuing through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, and finally to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

The trek involves daily hikes of about 5-7 hours, with overnight stops at various villages along the route.

Highlights include the Lamjura Pass, Sagarmatha National Park, Namche Bazaar, the Tengboche Monastery, and the panoramic views from Kala Patthar.

Acclimatization days are typically planned at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to help trekkers adjust to the altitude.

After reaching Everest Base Camp, trekkers retrace their steps to Lukla, from where they take a flight back to Kathmandu.

Some trekkers choose to add side trips to places like Gokyo Lakes or climb smaller peaks like Island Peak.

The terrain includes forests, suspension bridges, alpine meadows, glacial moraines, and rocky paths.

Trekkers can experience Sherpa culture, visit traditional villages, and explore ancient monasteries along the route.

The Jiri route is less crowded compared to the Lukla to Everest Base Camp trail, offering a more serene trekking experience.

The total distance of the trek from Jiri to Everest Base Camp and back to Lukla is approximately 170 kilometers.

The trek costs between $1,500 and $2,500, depending on the level of service and the inclusion of guides and porters.

Most packages include accommodation, meals, permits, guide and porter services, and transportation to and from the trek.

Additional expenses include travel insurance, personal gear, tips for guides and porters, and personal expenses such as snacks and drinks.

Yes, it is essential to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

Tips are customary, and a guideline is about 10% of the total trekking cost, to be shared among the guide and porters.

Be aware of potential extra charges for hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging electronic devices at teahouses.

Yes, many shops in Kathmandu rent and sell trekking gear, which can be more economical than buying new equipment.

Payments are typically made in advance, either through bank transfer or credit card, to the trekking agency.

ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar, but it is advisable to carry enough cash for the trek.

The local currency is Nepalese Rupees (NPR), but US Dollars are widely accepted in trekking areas.

The primary health risks are altitude sickness, dehydration, and physical injuries like sprains and blisters.

Prevent altitude sickness by ascending gradually, staying hydrated, and taking acclimatization days as planned.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.

If symptoms persist, descend immediately and seek medical attention. Guides are trained to handle such situations.

Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Meningitis vaccines are recommended.

Basic medical facilities are available in larger villages like Namche Bazaar, but serious cases may require evacuation to Kathmandu.

Trekking agencies provide safety briefings, and guides carry first aid kits. Emergency evacuation plans are also in place.

Preparation should include cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice hikes to build stamina and endurance.

Stick to a high-carbohydrate diet, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and caffeine at high altitudes.

It is advised to drink boiled or treated water. Carry water purification tablets or a filtration system.

Sherpas are known for their mountaineering skills and hospitality. Respect local customs and traditions, and engage with the community to learn more about their way of life.

Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and be respectful in religious sites like monasteries.

Practice Leave No Trace principles: carry out all trash, avoid single-use plastics, and minimize your environmental impact.

Yes, many monasteries welcome visitors. Remove your shoes before entering and be respectful of religious practices.

Buy local products, hire local guides and porters, and stay in locally-owned teahouses.

You may encounter yaks, Himalayan tahr, pheasants, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive snow leopard.

Observe wildlife from a distance, do not feed animals, and respect their natural habitat.

Depending on the timing of your trek, you might experience festivals like Mani Rimdu, celebrated in Tengboche Monastery.

The primary language is Nepali, but many locals, especially in the tourism industry, speak English.

Choose eco-friendly trekking agencies, support conservation efforts, and educate yourself on the environmental challenges faced by the region.