Nepal · Trekking

20-Day Everest Base Camp Trek from Jiri via the Historic Route

20 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Hard pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Follow the historic Jiri route used by early Everest expeditions
  • 02 Experience gradual acclimatisation through remote villages and forests
  • 03 Stand at Everest Base Camp and hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views
  • 04 Discover authentic Sherpa culture in Namche Bazaar and Tengboche

Trace the classic route from Jiri to Everest Base Camp on this immersive Himalayan trek. Beginning in rural hill villages, the trail rises gradually through forests, monasteries, and Sherpa settlements, allowing excellent acclimatisation. Follow historic expedition paths into the Khumbu Valley, cross suspension bridges, and walk beside glaciers beneath towering peaks. Reach Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for unforgettable mountain views before descending through Namche Bazaar, carrying deep cultural insight and a profound sense of achievement and personal fulfilment.

Reach Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for unforgettable mountain views before descending through Namche Bazaar, carrying deep cultural insight and a profound sense of achievement and personal fulfilment.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 20 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Hard
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kathmandu, Everest Base Camp-South, Lukla, Dingboche, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Phakding, Lobuche, Kala Patthar, Gorakshep, Sagarmatha National Park, Pheriche
Languages English, Hindi, Korean

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Drive from Kathmandu to Jiri on the Historic Everest Route

  • Enjoy a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jiri, taking approximately 7 to 9 hours.
  • The journey passes through small villages, rivers, and hillside farming landscapes.
  • It offers an early introduction to rural Nepal and traditional countryside life.
  • Jiri marks the true starting point of the historic Everest trekking route.
  • The drive feels like entering a quieter and less crowded part of Nepal.

Overnight stay at a local lodge with an introduction to traditional Nepali cuisine.

Meals: Dinner
Transportation: Private vehicle
Accommodation: Teahouse

2
Day 02

Begin Trekking from Jiri to Bhandar

  • Begin the first day of trekking through forested trails and rural settlements.
  • The trek covers approximately 15 km in 6 to 7 hours.
  • There is an elevation gain of around 295 metres.
  • Observe authentic village life, including farming activities and school-going children.
  • Experience warm hospitality from local communities along the trail.
  • Arrive at Bhandar for an overnight stay in a teahouse.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

3
Day 03

Trek through Villages and Farmlands to Sete

  • Trek approximately 8 km in 6 to 7 hours.
  • Ascend about 375 metres during the day.
  • Walk through forests, farmlands, and Rai, Tamang, and Sherpa villages.
  • Experience daily village life and changing landscapes as the altitude increases.
  • Enjoy fresh mountain air and expanding hill views.

Overnight stay in the small village of Sete with cosy teahouses.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

4
Day 04

Trek from Sete to Peaceful Junbesi

  • Trek around 11 km in 6 to 7 hours.
  • The elevation gain is approximately 105 metres.
  • Walk through scenic hills, rivers, and quiet villages largely untouched by tourism.
  • Reach Junbesi, known for its monasteries and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Explore the village, observe local life, or relax and enjoy mountain views.
  • The quiet night is ideal for rest and preparation for higher altitudes.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

5
Day 05

Acclimatization and Cultural Exploration in Junbesi

  • Spend a rest and acclimatization day allowing the body to adjust to the altitude.
  • Optional short hikes can be taken around the village.
  • Visit Junbesi Monastery and the nearby surroundings.
  • Interact with locals and gain insight into Himalayan culture.
  • Use the time to organise equipment and prepare for the steeper trekking days ahead.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

6
Day 06

Descend through Forests to Nunthala

  • Trek approximately 13 km in 5 to 6 hours.
  • Descend about 240 metres overall.
  • Walk through forests, villages, and across suspension bridges over rivers and streams.
  • The downhill trekking provides a different physical challenge.
  • Enjoy peaceful natural scenery throughout the day.
  • Overnight stay at welcoming teahouses in Nunthala.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

7
Day 07

Trek from Nunthala to the Quiet Village of Paiya

  • Trek about 12 km in 5 to 6 hours.
  • There is a moderate ascent of around 90 metres.
  • Pass through serene villages and forested trails with minimal tourist traffic.
  • Observe local farming practices and colourful prayer flags.
  • Reach the peaceful village of Paiya for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

8
Day 08

Follow the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding

  • Trek approximately 11 km in 5 to 6 hours.
  • There is a gentle elevation gain of about 80 metres.
  • Gradually enter the Everest region.
  • Follow the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests and across suspension bridges.
  • You will notice an increased number of teahouses along the route.
  • Overnight stay in the lively village of Phakding.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

9
Day 09

Enter Sagarmatha National Park and Reach Namche Bazaar

  • Trek around 9 km in 5 to 6 hours.
  • The elevation gain is approximately 830 metres.
  • Cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
  • Enter Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Reach Namche Bazaar, the main Sherpa trading hub.
  • Enjoy views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

10
Day 10

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

  • Take a rest day to adjust to the higher altitude.
  • Optional hikes include Everest View Hotel or nearby viewpoints.
  • Enjoy your first clear views of Mount Everest.
  • Explore markets, cafes, and local shops.
  • Learn about Sherpa culture and daily life.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

11
Day 11

Trek through Rhododendron Forests to Tengboche

  • Trek approximately 10 km in 5 to 6 hours.
  • Ascend about 430 metres.
  • Walk through rhododendron forests with panoramic mountain views.
  • Visit Tengboche Monastery, the most important monastery in the Khumbu region.
  • Experience evening prayers surrounded by Himalayan peaks.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

12
Day 12

Ascend into Alpine Scenery to Dingboche

  • Trek around 11 km in 5 to 6 hours.
  • The elevation gain is approximately 490 metres.
  • The landscape becomes more alpine with snowcapped peaks.
  • Reach Dingboche, an alpine village with stone-walled fields.
  • Enjoy evening views of Ama Dablam glowing in the sunset light.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

13
Day 13

High-Altitude Acclimatization in Dingboche

  • Spend a rest and acclimatization day at higher altitude.
  • Take short hikes to nearby ridges with views of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Island Peak.
  • Focus on hydration, rest, and gradual adjustment.
  • This helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

14
Day 14

Trek across Rocky Terrain to Lobuche

  • Trek approximately 11 km in 5 to 6 hours.
  • The elevation gain is about 580 metres.
  • The terrain shifts to glaciers, rocky paths, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
  • Reach Lobuche, which offers stunning high-altitude views.
  • Cold evenings are balanced by spectacular sunset scenery.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

15
Day 15

Reach Everest Base Camp and Return to Gorak Shep

  • Trek approximately 15 km in 7 to 8 hours.
  • The elevation gain is around 420 metres.
  • Reach Everest Base Camp and stand at the foot of the world's highest mountain.
  • Spend time absorbing the atmosphere and views.
  • Descend back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

16
Day 16

Sunrise at Kala Patthar and Descent to Pheriche

  • Take an early morning hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Mount Everest.
  • This is one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region.
  • The challenging climb is rewarded with panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Trek down to Pheriche, covering approximately 15 km.
  • Descend about 1,305 metres during the day.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

17
Day 17

Return along Familiar Trails to Namche Bazaar

  • Trek approximately 20 km in 6 to 7 hours.
  • Descend through Dingboche and Tengboche villages.
  • Walk through forested slopes and familiar trails.
  • Return to the lively atmosphere of Namche Bazaar.
  • There is time for shopping, relaxing, and celebrating your progress.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

18
Day 18

Complete the Long Jiri Route in Lukla

  • Trek approximately 19 km in 6 to 7 hours.
  • Descend about 1,080 metres.
  • Pass through Phakding and nearby villages.
  • Enjoy final views of the Himalayas.
  • Celebrate the completion of the long Jiri route.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

19
Day 19

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

  • Take a scenic morning flight back to Kathmandu.
  • Enjoy aerial views of mountains, valleys, and rivers.
  • Transfer to your hotel upon arrival.
  • A complimentary local dinner is hosted to celebrate the completion of the trek.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Transportation: Domestic flight
Accommodation: Hotel

20
Day 20

Departure from Kathmandu

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule.
  • Depart with lifelong memories of the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek.
Jiri hills, Sagarmatha National Park, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar

Where this trip takes you

Jiri hills, Sagarmatha National Park, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 12 cities · 20 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Permits and fees: Permits required for the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek are included, including the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu entrance fee, and Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit card.
  • Accommodation: Before and after the trek, you will stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, ensuring a relaxing and convenient start and end to your journey. Accommodation throughout the trekking journey is arranged in local teahouses or trekking lodges.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily throughout the trekking journey. In addition, hot drinks are available at breakfast and lunch, and fresh fruits are served after dinner.
  • Transportation: All ground and air transport as mentioned in the itinerary are included. This also includes the Lukla to Kathmandu flight.
  • Guide and porter: You are provided with an English-speaking guide experienced in trekking, along with one porter for every 2 trekkers to carry baggage.
  • First aid kit: An initial first aid kit for minor emergencies and health assistance.
  • Trekking map: A detailed map of the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trekking route.
  • Equipment: A duffel bag to carry personal effects.

What's Not Included

  • International flights: Flights to and from Nepal are not included. Passport holders must purchase their own air travel.
  • Travel insurance: Emergency and rescue insurance are not included and must be arranged personally by each trekker.
  • Personal expenses: Additional food, snacks, beverages, internet access, showers, and other personal expenses are not covered.
  • Nepal visa fees: Entry visa fees for Nepal are not included.
  • Trekking equipment: Necessary trekking equipment such as trekking boots, trekking poles, jackets, and similar items is not included.
  • Tips: Tips for guides and porters are not included and are at your discretion.

What to bring

  • A daypack suitable for daily gear, with adjustable straps and good back support
  • A small duffle bag for extra items to be carried by the porter
  • Breathable short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts for daytime layering
  • A warm mid-layer such as a fleece jacket or lightweight down jacket for evenings
  • A light windbreaker and waterproof jacket for rain and windy conditions
  • Durable trekking pants suitable for rough trails
  • Thermal innerwear and warm socks for high-altitude sections
  • Strong trekking boots with good ankle support for rocky and uneven terrain
  • Comfortable shoes or sandals for use in the evenings at lodges
  • Trekking poles for support on steep or uneven sections
  • Layered gloves and a warm hat for cold mornings and nights
  • A neck gaiter or scarf for dust and wind protection
  • UV-protection sunglasses
  • A headlamp or flashlight
  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Lip balm with SPF to protect against the strong mountain sun
  • Copies of passport and identification
  • Trekking permits and insurance documents
  • Sufficient local currency for teahouses, snacks, and small purchases along the trail
  • A basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illness
  • Duct tape for quick gear repairs
  • Plastic bags for packing gear and carrying out trash responsibly

Know before you go

  • Long and demanding trek: This route is longer than the Lukla trek and requires good physical fitness.
  • Time commitment: Expect 18-22 days depending on pace and acclimatization.
  • Gradual altitude gain: There is a lower risk of altitude sickness, but it still requires awareness.
  • Best seasons: March-May and September-November for clear weather.
  • Basic facilities early on: Teahouses are simple until you reach the Khumbu region.
  • Permits required: Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.
  • Weather variation: Expect warm lower hills and cold alpine nights higher up.
  • Cultural respect: You will pass through diverse ethnic communities - respect local customs and traditions.
  • A sleeping bag is available if needed.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 20 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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Estimated room rates

Single Room $1,800.00 — $2,040.00
Double Sharing $1,800.00 — $1,920.00

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