Everest Base Camp Trekking from Jiri

Jiri town located east of Kathmandu at a driving distance of 183 km / 114 miles taking more than 5 hour drive. As the drive leads ups and down on hilly road past beautiful villages and towns with scenic views of snow-mountain range.

Nearly all villages and lodges have electricity with Hydro or Solar power, where one can charge their electronic items. Where client needs to pay an extra fee for using the power as per gadgets charged. As for internet and cell phone communications, every lodges have the Wi-Fi and internet services, but can be quite disturbing sometimes due to weather and location wise.

From Jiri and Solu area onwards to Khumbu / Everest region one can enjoy the comfort of nice lodges and guest house. As well with warm traditional hospitality in every overnight stops, people can choose from budget, standard to luxury (around Khumbu region) lodges where available.

The foods are well served in a large cosy dining hall, can choose various items of foods from the menu with wide range of meals and snacks to choose from.

Serves Continental, Chinese, Indian, Tibetan and Nepali foods, as well Mexican, Italian, Korean or Japanese in some lodge restaurants. Includes fresh bakery products also.

The trek from Jiri is almost forgotten, due to Lukla airport where most

trekkers enjoys short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The trekkers using

the old classic route to Everest base camp are quite few, compared to

visitors flying in at Lukla. But slowly the Jiri trek is gaining popular among those people, who enjoys quiet walk, away from mainstream trails. 

At present motorable road has extended from Jiri as far to Khari-Khola village, but quite a drive on steep hilly areas. The drive with too much of bumpy journey, where one can feel tired before starting the trek. The itinerary we have designed

is the best with flexible walks and having rest days, where needed.

As season wise with flow of visitors to Lukla and vice versa from Kathmandu.

During high times of trekking season, the flight to Lukla and back can be quite busy. Where more than 20 flights operates in a fine clear day, which cause air traffic with the international and other domestic airlines. To make the air traffic lighter, the flight to Lukla from Kathmandu is diverted to Manthali airport at Ramechap district. Which is about 150 k.m driving distance of 4 to 5 hours, the flight from Ramechap to Lukla is just 20 to 25 minutes. Which makes it easier and quicker before the bad weather closes in. For further updates the company will inform all the clients flying in and out of Lukla, for trekkers joining with Trek Landers Adventures.

The Everest Base Camp Trek from Jiri is the original, classic, and the first route of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay before Lukla Airport was constructed. The route from Jiri is not a short 12–14-day EBC trek with a direct flight to Lukla. Instead, it starts from the small town of Jiri located in the mid-hills region of Nepal. This path takes the journey to 20–24 days and lets you experience the rich culture, nature, and traditions of Nepal before you enter the Khumbu region. Namche Bazaar is where trekkers merge with the main Everest trail after trekking through terraced fields, Sherpa villages, river valleys, rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude areas. It is a perfect choice of the Himalayan adventure for those who want a genuine, long, and less-crowded trip.

Most of the routes are between 20 and 24 days, which depend on acclimatization stops, walking pace, and side trips such as Kala Patthar or Nangkartsang Peak. The part of the trek from Jiri to Namche Bazaar for 7–8 days involves going up and down several times, so it is physically more challenging than the rest of the EBC trek. Treklanders Adventures adjusts the length according to your time, fitness, and acclimatization requirements, thus ensuring that you get enough rest days and that your progression is safe.

The Jiri route is longer, more culturally immersive, and significantly quieter. You see rural Nepal in its purest form: traditional villages, farmlands, and mixed ethnic communities. The trails are peaceful compared to the busy Lukla–EBC route. Trekking difficulty is greater, especially in the beginning, due to continuous uphill and downhill walking. The entire experience is like a full Himalayan culture and nature combined with classic adventure.

Yes, but it is strongly discouraged for absolute beginners since it demands top-notch physical endurance. In the first week, there are a lot of steep ascents and long walking hours. That said, beginners with strong fitness, good preparation, and determination can complete it safely with a professional guide, proper pacing, and acclimatization days organized by Treklanders Adventures. Prior multi-day trekking experience helps but is not mandatory.

For adventurers, this path is a dream trail because it follows in the footsteps of the first Everest pioneers. Besides, it has spectacular sceneries, fewer footfalls, more animals to spot, and real cultural interaction, which is almost impossible on the commercial route of Lukla. The Jiri route makes the Everest Base Camp experience more meaningful, which is what most of the trekkers want to say because the journey feels gradual, real, and earned.

The best times are spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November). These days are characterized by good weather with blue sky and great views of the mountains and temperatures that are not too hot or too cold. Not only that, but the trails are also dry, the rivers will be easy to cross, and teahouses will be open and at full service. Jiri is also very beautiful during spring when there are a lot of rhododendrons, while the autumn still has the advantage of sharp and bright mountain views.

Yes, but it comes with many difficulties. The Jiri part will be open, but places like Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, and EBC at higher altitudes might get a lot of snow, making the paths slippery and the temperature very low. The thermometer can even show less than –20°C at night. Those who decide to go on such a trek must be very sure of their equipment and clothing and should also have prior high-altitude trekking experience. Winter treks are very beautiful and tranquil, but it is a must to take safety precautions.

Monsoon (June–August) is a season to avoid in general, characterized by heavy rain, which causes slippery trails and leeches in the lower parts, and also creates cloud cover, which in turn results in limited visibility. The Jiri side is also quite rainy, thus river crossings and steep slopes become harder to manage. Despite this, there are a few trekkers who choose to do monsoon because of the freshness and the less crowded trails. Besides that, water-resistant clothing and a flexible schedule are also must-haves if you nevertheless decide to trek during this season.

For photographers, autumn is really the best time because the mountains look neat and are covered with fresh snow, while there is no cloud in the sky and it is blue. Also, spring can be great for photography because of the lush green trees, bright landscapes, and warm lighting. Winter is dramatic but cold. For drone, sunrise, and sunset pictures, Kala Patthar in November is amazing.

The trek ranks as a difficult one mainly because it takes a very long time, has steep climbs, high altitude, and different types of terrain. The Jiri part is particularly hard due to several passes like Lamjura La and Deurali Pass. The combination of long walking days, daily elevation changes, and altitude risks at higher regions makes it very challenging. Yet, the right pace, drinking enough water, acclimatization, and following the guide's advice will make it possible for a physically strong and determined trekker.

Yes, trekkers must be capable of walking for 6–8 hours a day, negotiating steep climbs and descents, and coping with altitude gain. You should prepare your cardio by doing exercises, climbing stairs, and also going for long hikes while doing leg and core strength training for at least 6–8 weeks before the trek. Treklanders Adventures will be glad to give you personalized fitness tips to get you ready.

It is very important to have acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Taking it slow, drinking lots of water, and sticking to the “climb high, sleep low” rule will help to prevent altitude sickness. Symptoms monitoring by the guide is very important too, as he/she will observe headache, nausea, or dizziness from the very first stages so that there are no complications.

Throughout the trek, one stays in modest yet comfortable teahouses. Teahouses are local lodges that offer not only a warm place but also a familial atmosphere to relax after a tiring day of walking. Accommodation in the Jiri area looks more like that of a home with larger rooms, nicely-made beds, and traditional Nepali hospitality.

The majority of the bathrooms are shared, especially those located in the upper areas, where there are fewer facilities. In the lower Jiri areas, and some lodges in Namche Bazaar, there might be rooms with attached bathrooms, but this is subject to the season. Shared toilets are generally squat-style in villages that are far off, and western-style ones are in busy trekking towns. Trekkers are advised to bring toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and other handy personal hygiene products for their convenience.

There is no heating available in the rooms. The main dining hall, however, is heated through a stove that may use wood, kerosene, or yak dung as fuel. This is the place where trekkers meet in the evenings to get warm, eat, and chat. Since the nights can be extremely cold, especially at altitudes of more than 4,000 meters, it is a must to bring with you some warm clothes and a quality sleeping bag if you want to have a comfortable sleep.

Teahouses are definitely safe and clean, and the local people are very friendly. They are run by local families who are always there to take care not only of the trekkers but also of their teahouses. Although the rooms are clean, they are also very simple, and as far as cleanliness is concerned, there is little difference from lower to higher regions. Treklanders Adventures always takes care of the quality of the lodges that it works with in terms of service, bedding, and food preparation, as well as hygiene standards.

The answer to this question is yes, but it is an extra service that usually needs to be paid for. Gas- or solar-heated showers are typical for the lower and middle altitude regions. At high altitude, it is difficult to provide hot water, and thus, the prices are higher than usual. Many trekkers simply reduce the number of their showers after Tengboche because of the cold.

The majority of the teahouses make electricity available for the charging of the likes of phones, cameras, and power banks. However, it is not free of charge. There is a normal electricity supply in the lower regions, while the higher ones are powered by solar panels. One can charge devices at a certain altitude only for a certain amount of money, thus prices always go up the higher you are. It is also very useful to have an energy-storing device (battery) with you (10,000–20,000 mAh).

The majority of teahouses offer Wi-Fi service, especially from Namche Bazaar and further on; however, it is a paid service, and the speed can be slow. Namche Bazaar and other lower areas may offer free or inexpensive Wi-Fi, whereas high-altitude villages rely on “Everest Link” cards that cost more.

Teahouses that are located on the way serve simple, warm, and freshly made food that is full of energy and suitable for the long trekking days. Dal bhat is the most consumed food, which is a healthy combination of rice, lentils, and vegetables, and comes with free refills. You can also eat fried rice, noodles, pasta, momo, soups, potatoes, omelets, porridge, pancakes, and chapati. Food in the Jiri area is more diverse and produced with fresh local products, whereas the menus in the higher parts of the mountain are simpler due to fewer supplies. In spite of the isolated areas, you will always get clean, nutritious, and comforting meals on the way.

Certainly, water for drinking becomes safe after the proper treatment. Locally, villagers can provide you with bottled water, but be ready for the price that goes up with altitude. To limit the plastic waste while keeping the water safe, Treklanders Adventures recommends the use of water that has been boiled or treated with purification tablets, iodine drops, or a portable filter. That's why the trekkers are advised to have a bottle or hydration bladder (2 liters) with them so that they can fill it up at the teahouses or water stations on the way.

Teahouses always keep their kitchen areas neat and clean and prepare the meals freshly for the arrival of the guests. The food safety levels in the Khumbu and Jiri regions are up to standards and can be trusted, especially in the popular trekking villages. Vegetarian dishes are mostly suggested at higher elevations so that the issue of digestion will not arise. Vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free, and other dietary meals are often possible if one is a little bit flexible.

Yes, the trail from Jiri to EBC is well-developed with multiple teahouses at regular intervals. Breakfast, lunch, and tea breaks can be availed at almost every village. In addition, most of the tea houses have snacks such as biscuits, chocolates, energy drinks, and noodles for sale. Nevertheless, the prices are going up steadily along with the altitude as a result of the transportation problems.

Tea, black coffee, hot lemon, ginger tea, hot chocolate, and soups are the items that can be found in nearly all the teahouses and are served to the customers. Benefiting the body from both hot lemon and ginger tea is a very good idea when you are at a high altitude. On the contrary, drinking alcohol should stop when the person is at high altitudes because it slows down the acclimatization process and, at the same time, it provokes dehydration. In addition, it is better not to consume unboiled water, ice cubes, and raw dairy products.

At any teahouse, one can refill their water container. By using boiled water, a small fee is normally made, and it is considered the safest option, especially after the Namche Bazaar area. The reason is that the majority of tourists are also keen on boiling water, as it preserves warmth for a longer time, even if it is cold. In general, hot water is accessible along the entire trail, and by using insulated bottles, one can still enjoy the desired heat during the very cold nights.

The mobile coverage facilities are good in the Jiri region and the lower Khumbu villages. Ncell and NTC are the networks that work in places like Salleri, Phakding, Namche, and Tengboche, but you will find the signal getting weaker as you go higher. Around Lobuche, Gorak Shep, and Everest Base Camp, there is very limited network availability or even no network at all.

Most tea houses in the Khumbu region offer paid Wi-Fi through services such as Everest Link or Airlink, so the answer is yes. The connection is generally good for sending messages; however, the speed may vary depending on the altitude and weather.

Wi-Fi is almost always a paid service. There can be cheaper Wi, Fi services in the lower villages, while in the high altitude areas, prepaid cards are sold at a higher price due to the limited infrastructure.

Mobile data is available in many lower and middle region villages, but it becomes very weak in the high altitude areas. Trekkers are advised not to rely on mobile data solely.

To keep in touch even in the areas that lack a mobile network, Treklanders Adventures guides are always equipped with a satellite phone or a radio communication device.

Yes, it is good to buy an NTC or Ncell SIM card, which will be helpful during the first part of the trek. After that, coverage will be limited in higher regions.

Indeed, a guide holding a valid license is almost indispensable for the Jiri to EBC trail, which is long, isolated, and arduous. Treklanders Adventures offers the service of their competent guides who, apart from navigation, also take care of you by managing the pace, arranging accommodation and meals, and ensuring your safety. They are particularly helpful when the coming sections of the trek from Jiri get difficult, and also when you are at a high altitude.

One of the main benefits of having a professional guide is ensuring a safer trek, which is more comfortable and more enjoyable. They observe for any altitude symptoms, oversee daily plans, talk to teahouses, explain the local culture, and, in case of bad weather or emergencies, make decisions. The guide not only provides safety but also a trouble-free and pleasurable trek.

Indeed, the trek is more than 20 days long, and heavy backpack carrying can make the whole thing tiring, cause you to have pain in your knees, and negatively affect your acclimatization process. A porter is allowed to carry 15 to 20 kg of your luggage, thus you can comfortably walk with just a few essentials packed in a small daypack.

The guides and porters that Treklanders Adventures appoint are not only well-trained and experienced but also have good knowledge of the Jiri and Khumbu regions. Besides this, the team is proficient in first aid, altitude awareness, trail management, and customer care.

Of course, yes, Treklanders Adventures commits to providing their support staff with different types of insurance that cover accidents, medical needs, and rescue cases. It is their safety and security that are guaranteed through the trek.

Those who are on a trek need permits that include a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit as well as a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. The national park permit is necessary when you are in the park close to Monjo, while the rural municipality permit is a must for trekking in the Khumbu region. Treklanders Adventures takes charge of the whole permit process to make sure everything is in order before your trek.

There are several official checkpoints along the route where permission slips are examined. Some places you will have to show them are Monjo, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and a couple of checkpoints higher up on the way to Dingboche and Lobuche. Besides, officers may check the permits again at the time of leaving the Khumbu region.

No, you are not allowed to go trekking without permits. At the checkpoints, you may be stopped, fined, or even denied access to the trail. All in all, it is very important to always have your valid permits with you if you want to have a trouble-free access, a safe journey, and legal travel along the route.

To adequately equip oneself for this long and diverse journey, one must put together a pack with warm clothing layers and a down jacket, thermal innerwear, trekking trousers, a waterproof and windproof jacket, gloves, protected sunglasses, a warm hat, trekking poles, a headlamp, good trekking shoes, power banks, and personal hygiene items. A sleeping bag with a temperature rating from 10°C to 15°C is a must, especially for the high altitudes. Additionally, Treklanders Adventures also carries sleeping bags and duffel bags if you wish to use them, and thus make your packing effortless and convenient.

Indeed, both are very useful and necessary. Trekking poles offer the user security, support the knees during steep lowering, and help keep balance on rough ground. In a warm sleeping bag, you will be comfortable even in cold teahouses and rooms without heating. Though blankets are available, they might not be warm enough at high altitudes.

You ought to plan your physical preparation at least 6 to 8 weeks ahead of your trek. Alongside the long walks or hikes, one should add stair climbing, cardio activities like jogging or cycling, and strength exercises for the legs and the abdominal muscles. By doing so, one builds up endurance and leg strength, thus facilitating the process of acclimatization and making the whole trekking experience safer and more pleasurable.

Certainly, a pair of well-fitting, high ankle trekking boots with good grip is necessary. Do it before the trek, and after you break them, to avoid blistering and foot discomfort. Light sandals or slippers will come in handy for the nights in teahouses.

Energy bars, nuts, chocolates, hydration salts, and some light snacks are very useful provisions to carry along, especially when walking the longer stretches between villages. While there is the option to buy snacks in teahouses, prices go up with altitude.

It actually takes a long drive from Kathmandu to Jiri or Bhandar to get along with your journey. A private jeep, a hired car, or a public bus can take you there. The ride is on a road that goes through the hills, small villages, and agricultural landscapes. The driving time usually ranges from 7 to 10 hours, depending on the traffic and the road conditions. Treklanders Adventures provides you with a comfortable private vehicle to make the beginning of your trek easy.

Public buses are low-cost but slow and not very comfortable, and thus, they stop frequently along the route. On the other hand, private jeeps promise you more comfort, safety, and even time flexibility. They are suitable for trekkers willing to have a fast and tranquil journey to Jiri or Bhandar.

The road is mostly safe; however, it can be rough in some places where there is road work or where the weather has affected it. Those drivers who know the route well will take you there safely. Treklanders Adventures is the company that uses skilled and qualified drivers for all your transfers.

Most trekkers take a short scenic flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The flight, which lasts 25 to 30 minutes, saves several days of walking. Treklanders Adventures is the company that is responsible for your ease in handling all the preflight and airport transfer arrangements.

If the weather is bad, Lukla flights might be canceled or delayed. Then, the next available flight is the option for the continuation of the journey. The helicopter is an alternative in case it is not possible to reschedule the flight. Treklanders Adventures is facilitating the alternative plans to be as efficient as possible.

Of course, if you are willing to extend the return trip, you can walk back to Jiri or Salleri. You are adding several days to your plan and getting more cultural exposure. Though the majority of trekkers decide to fly because it is more convenient and time-saving.

Altitude sickness is the most significant problem on the mentioned path. It is particularly severe in the areas of Namche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. Therefore, climbing slowly, taking an acclimatization day, drinking more water, and not consuming alcohol are the main means of defense. The Treklanders Adventures guides watch your condition during the trip and hence change the speed or itinerary if necessary. In the case that symptoms intensify, going down to the lower altitudes is the safest remedy.

In case of headaches, loss of appetite, dizziness, or nausea, assist without delay. The early stage of the disease always leads to the prevention of more severe complications. In their first aid kit, guides have the necessary medicines they may need and will help you hydrate, rest, or get down based on your condition. If the situation worsens, you will have to be evacuated, and the Treklanders will liaise with helicopter rescue to help you.

Indeed, the trails are safe to walk on, but one must concentrate there, especially on the parts that are steep, narrow, or rocky. Trekking poles give you aid and help you keep your balance on your descending walks. Be sure to always manage your trail on the inner side and let the yaks, mules, and porters that carry your goods have enough space. The weather can be very capricious and change suddenly, which is why suitable clothing ensures your safety.

Practicing good hygiene is essential in keeping oneself healthy. Clean your hands with soap or sanitizers quite often, and do not drink unboiled water or eat raw foods. Put on fresh socks to ward off blisters, apply sun block to protect your skin, and keep yourself warm during the cold nights and days. The consumption of hot foods and water is very important for one's stamina and to facilitate recovery after a day's work.

The paths are quite safe; however, you should be careful when the path is steep, narrow, or rocky. A trekking pole can help you keep your balance, and good shoes will give you stability. Do not go out on the edge of the path and let the yaks, mules, or porters pass beside you. Be prepared for the sudden change of weather by wearing suitable clothes and layers.

Good hygiene is one of the measures to keep away from diseases. Always wash and sanitize your hands, drink only treated water, and avoid raw or undercooked food. Put on fresh socks to prevent blistering, guard your skin with UV protection, and warm yourself in the cool mornings and evenings. Hot meals and plenty of water are the key to staying strong and to quick recovery from a long day of walking.

Water is the number one factor for the prevention of altitude sickness and keeping one's energy up. Trekking people should be taking about 3–4 liters of purified water every day. Dehydration is the cause of headaches, tiredness, and poor acclimatization. Apart from water, hot beverages like ginger tea, lemon tea, and soups are also perfect for hydration in chilly weather.

Each guide has a first-aid kit that is well-stocked with basic medications, bandages, blister plasters, antiseptics, hydration salts, and medicines for altitude.

Guides are skilled in identifying symptoms of altitude, helping the injured with minor problems, and handling uneasy situations. If the issue is beyond their capability, they promptly arrange for the departure of the patient to a medical facility.

The best protection is the wearing of correct layers. The base layer will keep you dry, the mid-layer will keep you warm, and the outer layer will protect you against wind, rain, or snow. A down jacket, gloves, a neck gaiter, a woolen hat, and socks that are nice and warm are the minimum requirements. During the night, use your sleeping bag and the blankets that are provided in the teahouses to keep you warm.

Certainly, travel insurance is highly recommended and is necessary for a high-altitude trek. Your insurance should also cover medical treatment and emergency helicopter evacuation, besides the high-altitude trekking aspect to 5,500 meters. This makes the rescue fast and safe in case of emergencies.

It ought to be clearly specified in your insurance that it provides cover for trekking in the Himalayas, altitude over 5000 meters, medical evacuation, accidents, trip delays caused by bad weather, and hospital care. Always possessing both digital and printed copies of your insurance information is crucial, as it allows the rescue team to act without delay upon your request.

Indeed, travel insurance is a must for this journey. As the walking will be at altitudes over 5,000 meters, your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking along with medical treatment and emergency helicopter evacuation. Proper insurance is the precondition for timely and safe rescue support when there is an emergency.

The main points that your insurance policy should cover are:

Trekking in the Himalayas; Altitude above 5,000 meters; Emergency helicopter evacuation; Accidents and medical care; Trip delays due to weather conditions, etc. Be sure to have both hard and soft copies of your insurance information with you all the time so that there will be no delays in rescue operations.

There are small health posts in bigger villages in the Sherpa east, like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pheriche, and Dingboche. These are places where you can get a bit of treatment and advice for altitude-related issues. For a serious problem, you will need a helicopter to take you to a hospital because only in Kathmandu can you get advanced medical care.