Follow the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and brave Tenzing Norgay to the Everest Base Camp
An alternative flight to Lukla – take a bus to Jiri and follow a path that joins the main trail to Everest
Traverse through amazing landscapes full of villages, settlement areas and farmlands in the backdrop of the beautiful Himalayas
A more challenging way to get to the Everest Base Camp
Witness the spectacles of towering peaks like Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho-oyu, Mt Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Tawache and many other mountains in the range.
Trip Overview
Jiri Everest Base Camp follow the footprints of Sir Edmond Hillary and brave Tenzing Norgay
“Opt for the original and most authentic journey to the Everest region of Nepal! Follow the footsteps of the pioneers – Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay to the Everest Base Camp and explore the wilderness of the region. Unlike other treks to the Everest region, the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Jiri. One can avoid the flight to Lukla and still get to the Everest region of Nepal.”
Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging trip to the Everest region suitable for adventure enthusiasts. It is not like other treks to the Everest region that initiate with a flight to Lukla. It proceeds with an alternative route from Jiri that joins the main trail to the Everest Base Camp. It was the same path that was taken by the first person to conquer Everest, i.e. Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. The trek begins with a pleasant walk through alluring rural life and lush landscapes, enhanced by jaw-dropping views of snow-clad mountains in the backdrop.
It showcases a picturesque setting of rural life, lush hills, terraced farmlands, pristine air, and the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding mountains. The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is not only popular for its natural beauty but also for the cultural richness that can be experienced during the trek. The trail from Jiri to Phakding is inhabited by people from various ethnic groups who have their own religious and cultural values. They have their own unique culture, customs, festivals and lifestyle. Also, the trail traverses from lowland to highland, which is an opportunity to encounter the variety in geography, vegetation, temperature, flora and fauna throughout the way.
Why Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek different from other treks in the Everest region?
Almost all the trekking journeys to the Everest region start with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. But with the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek, one can refrain from the regular flight to Lukla and opt for a long bus drive to Jiri. From Jiri, there is a path that connects you to the regular trail to Everest Base Camp. Hence, this trek can be a long trek to Everest Base Camp, it is the original trail taken by the pioneers of Everest climbers who climbed the mountain before the construction of the airport in Lukla.
It allows you to immerse yourself in the interesting mix of natural glory, people, villages and their diverse culture. With the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek, a trekker can experience different aspects of the Everest region in a single go.
The trail we follow Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek!
Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek is an alternate route to the Everest Base Camp Trek without taking a flight to Lukla airport. It starts with a long drive from Kathmandu to Jiri in a bus. From Jiri, the trail traverses through lush and pristine countryside landscape. We pass various villages, farmlands and people on the way to join the main trail of the Everest Base Camp Trek. We walk through the villages like Sete, Junbensi, Nunthala, Khari Khola and Surkhe village on the way to Phakding. Leaving Phakding, we slowly ascend up to enter into Sagarmatha National Park.
We are now on the main trail to Everest Base Camp. We ascend through Namache and pass Tengboche monastery on the way to Dingboche. Further, we ascend up to Lobuche and then to Everest Base Camp via Gorekshep. At the base camp, we can enjoy some amazing views of mountains looming right above us. We also hike up to Kalapatthar to get 360-degree views of towering mountains in the Everest region like Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho-oyu, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Tawache, etc. The trip ends with a descent down to Lukla airport via Namche.
So, are you willing to test your endurance capacity by immersing in the depths of Mother Nature? Nepal Intrepid Treks escorts you throughout the trail to give you the best out of the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek. Dissolve into the stunning beauty of the mountains as you traverse deep into the fascinating beauty of the countryside of Nepal! The rural area, the mix of people, their culture and lifestyle of the Everest region via Jiri is ready to awe you with its unique features!
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,355 m / 4,446 ft)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Bandar (2,190 m / 7,185 ft) | Distance: 179 km (111 miles) | Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 04: Trek to Sete (2,940 m / 9,646 ft) | Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles) | Duration: 6 hours.
Day 05: Trek to Junbesi (2,700 m / 8,858 ft) | Distance: 13 km (8 miles) | Duration: 6.5 hours.
Day 06: Trek to Nunthala (2,330 m / 7,644 ft) | Distance: 19 km (11.8 miles) | Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 07: Trek to Khari Khola (2,100 m / 6,890 ft) | Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles) | Duration: 6 hours.
Day 08: Trek to Puiyan (2,730 m / 8,957 m) | Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles) | Duration: 5 hours.
Day 09: Trek to Phakding(2,610 m / 8,563 ft) | Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles) | Duration: 5.5 hours.
Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,443 m / 11,296 ft) | Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles) | Duration: 6 hours.
Day 11: Acclimatisation day in Namche, Short hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880 m / 12,730 ft) | Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles) | Duration: 4 hours
Day 12: Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m / 12,664 ft) | Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Duration: 6 hours.
Day 13: Trek to Dingboche (4,450 m / 14,600 ft) | Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles) | Duration: 6 hours.
Day 14: Acclimatisation day in Dingboche, hike to Nagarsan Hill (5,100 m / 16,732 ft) | Distance: 7.4 km (4.5 miles) | Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 15: Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m / 16,109 ft) | Distance: 8 km (4.9 miles) | Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 16: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft) then back to Gorekshep (5,180 m / 16,863 ft) | Distance: 11.5 km (97.1 miles) | Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 17: Hike to Kalapatthar(5,545 m / 18,192 ft) for sunrise, then trek to Pheriche (4,250 m / 13,944 ft) | Distance: 15.5 km (9.6 miles) | Duration: 7-8 hours.
Day 18: Trek to Namche(3,443 m / 11,296ft) | Distance: 19 km (11.8 miles) | Duration: 7 hours.
Day 19: Trek to Lukla (2,850 m / 9,350 ft) | Distance: 19.5 km (12.1 miles) | Duration: 7-8 hours
Day 20: Flight back to Kathmandu (1,355 m / 4,445 ft) | Duration: 30 minutes flight and 20-25 minutes drive.
Day 21: Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Day 22: Farewell
Trip Itinerary
As you arrive at the airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Intrepid Treks will welcome you and transfer you to a pre-booked three-star hotel in Kathmandu. A luxurious cab drive will drop you at the hotel. Check in and rest for a while. If there is enough time, you can roam around the Kathmandu city in the evening. Spend your night at a hotel in Kathmandu!
Max. Elevation:1355m
Duration:20-25 minute
Distance:Approximately 6 kilometers ( Airport to Hotel )
Included/Excluded
All ground transportation, including airport pick up and drop off
Kathmandu city tour, all entry fees, tour guide and private vehicle
Four nights' accommodation in Kathmandu in a 3-star category hotel on BB basis
Kathmandu city tour, all entry fees, tour guide and private vehicle
Flight ticket Lukla - Kathmandu
Daily three-time full board meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with a cup of tea during the trek
Best available twin-sharing basis lodge-to-lodge accommodation during the trek
Seasonable fruits during the trek
Necessary documentation and Permit costs to enter into the Sagarmatha National Park Area trek
Highly experienced English-speaking guide and porter (1 porter will be available to two persons), including their food, salary, accommodation and insurance, etc
Nepal Intrepid Treks T-shirt, Duffle bag and Trekking map.
Sleeping bag and down jacket during the trek
Trip Achievement Certificate
oxygen cylinder and mask on request with an extra charge
Government taxes and office service charges during travel
Nepal entry visa fee
International air fee
Travel insurance
Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
All cold drinks, water any beverage are not included on your trip price.
We provide such service with an extra charge. (Note:– Our option excursions are culture trip, Festival trip, monastery meditation with Lama and Monks, Bird watching, Farming trip other things as per the client's interest).
Trekking Equipment: (Note: – Clients have to arrange personal trekking equipment such as a trekking pole).
Tips for drivers, guides and porters are not included in the cost of your package.
Others:-
Personal expenses such as phone calls, Internet, Laundry, Bar Bill and extra porters.
Cost arising out of landslide, Road Blocked, Rescue of any form, Cancellation of flight or Reasons beyond our control.
Any other Expenses which are not mentioned in the price include section.
Dates & Prices
This 22-days Jiri To Everest Base Camp Trek begins and ends in , offering a memorable journey of adventure and discovery.
We arrange private trips for individuals or groups of any size, customized for a personal and flexible experience.
Jiri To Everest Base Camp TrekVideo
Good to Know
The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is the original and most traditional route to Everest, offering a deep cultural experience and a gradual approach to high altitude. This trek is longer and more physically demanding than the standard Lukla route, so good physical fitness and adequate preparation are essential. Since the trail begins at lower elevations, it allows natural acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness, but trekkers should still walk slowly, stay hydrated, and follow proper rest days as advised by their guide.
Accommodation along the Jiri route is basic, especially in the early sections where teahouses are simple, and facilities are limited. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging options may not be available every night, so carrying spare batteries or a power bank is recommended. Meals are mostly traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat, noodles, and simple curries, with fewer menu choices compared to the Lukla–EBC route.
This trek passes through remote villages, terraced farmlands, and dense forests, providing close interaction with local Rai, Tamang, Sherpa, and other ethnic communities. Respect for local culture, traditions, and dress codes is important, particularly in villages and monasteries. Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain in lower regions and cold temperatures at higher altitudes, so layered clothing and reliable rain protection are necessary.
The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek requires multiple passes and long walking days, making it suitable for trekkers who enjoy quiet trails and fewer crowds. Because road conditions and landslides can occasionally affect access to Jiri, itinerary flexibility is important. Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended for safety and peace of mind.
General Faqs
The Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit are required.
Amazing Experience in Upper Mustang with Nepal Intrepid Treks
I came to Nepal to do the Upper Mustang trek with my friends in March 2025. We started our trek from Kagbeni, accompanied by my friend and guide. The blend of Tibetan and Hindu cultures was fascinating, and I especially enjoyed learning about the traditions of Buddhism. The people in that area were very kind.
I was amazed by the monasteries we visited; the entire region was fantastic. The ancient villages perched on the hills surprised us with their unique history and architecture. The variety of colorful paintings and decorations left a lasting impression.
I want to sincerely thank Nepal Intrepid Treks for supporting our trek, as well as our guide and Lal Gurung, Managing Director of Nepal Intrepid Treks.
Incredible Manaslu Circuit Trek with Nepal Intrepid Treks
I completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek in April 2025 and want to sincerely thank the entire Nepal Intrepid Treks team for their support in helping me complete this trek. The views of Mount Manaslu were absolutely stunning, making this one of the best experiences of my life.
Special thanks to Lal Gurung and the guide for their excellent service and care throughout the journey.
Highly recommended!
Unforgettable Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek – Beyond Expectations!
I did not expect the Everest Base Camp trek to be this incredible, but the Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek I booked with Nepal Intrepid Treks turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life.
From the very beginning, their top-notch service truly impressed me. I never imagined I could enjoy coffee, pizza, and snacks at such high altitudes. The hotel accommodations were surprisingly comfortable and the hospitality was outstanding.
What stood out the most were the breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, especially from Everest Base Camp and the iconic Everest View Hotel. Having breakfast with such a view was an unforgettable moment.
My guide and porter were extremely helpful and friendly throughout the trek, making the journey safe and enjoyable.
Special thanks to Lal Gurung, Managing Director of Nepal Intrepid Treks, for organizing everything so well. His team made sure everything went smoothly from start to finish.
I highly recommend Nepal Intrepid Treks to anyone looking to experience the Himalayas in comfort and style.
Thank you so much!
A Truly Luxurious and Unforgettable Everest Trek – Thanks to Nepal Intrepid Treks!
Man, this trek was absolutely amazing! I never imagined the Everest Base Camp Trek could be so luxurious and successful. It completely exceeded my expectations.
If this incredible journey was possible, it is only because of Nepal Intrepid Treks, especially the Managing Director Lal Gurung and my fantastic guide and porter. Their support, organization, and hospitality made everything smooth and enjoyable.
The helicopter ride with the stunning views from the top was something I will never forget. Having breakfast at the Everest View Hotel while admiring the world’s highest peak is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The people along the way, the warm hospitality, and the diverse culture of the Himalayas were the top highlights for me. I felt deeply connected to the place and its spirit.
Thank you so much to the entire Nepal Intrepid Treks team. Highly recommended for anyone dreaming of the Everest trek with a touch of luxury and personalized care.
Manaslu Circuit Trek – The Closest Mountain Experience
I believe the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers the best mountain experience with an up-close view of the peaks with our naked eyes. Thanks to Lal Gurung, Managing Director of Nepal Intrepid Treks, for suggesting this incredible trek.
During this trek, I got to see Mount Manaslu very closely. I have also completed the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp treks, but among these, the Manaslu Circuit stands out for how near the mountain feels.
Special thanks to Lal Gurung for being a wonderful guide and providing excellent service throughout the journey.