Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek - 21 Days

Trip Introduction

Jiri is a municipality in Dolakha District which is located in the Bagmati Province of Nepal. This beautiful location has become a favorable alternative for travellers embarking on trek to Everest Base Camp. The route from Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trekking encompasses the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. These are the first people to summit the Mount Everest also known as “Roof of The World.” This adventure leads trekkers to an original route towards Solu and Khumbu district within Everest region. However, this route was forgotten due to the introduction of Lukla airstrips built by late Edmund Hilary in the late 1970s.

Jiri to Everest Base Camp route is considered a favorable trail for those who desire walking on isolated trail away from mainstream trekking path. This will be an ideal way to enjoy your adventure holiday visiting villages of Nepalese mid hills tribes of mixed Tamang, Newar, Rai, Chettris and Sherpa people around the walk within Solu areas of Southern part of Everest.

During the trek, visitors can witness rolling rivers, symbolic prayer wheels and Mani walls with majestic mountains which provide visually arousing landscapes. The thrilling cross hair-raising suspension bridges coupled with prayer flags add extra beauty to the path. The dense green vegetation consisting beautiful flowers, vibrant leaves and the symphony of wildlife creates a breathtaking natural paradise for visitors and trekkers. Yaks, horses, donkeys, cattle and sheep can be seen in the residential areas whereas wild animals like snow leopards, musk deer, mountain weasel, Himalayan goral reside in these areas.

Jiri to Everest base camp trek welcomes fellow visitors with stunning views of Himalayas at around every turn. Enormous mountains like Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Cho Oyu (8,201m), as well as several other snow-capped Himalayan peaks, provide the glimpse of nature's beauty. 

How does the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek start and end?

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trekking route and the traditional Lukla starting point are the two main paths leading to Mount Everest, with each offering its own unique trekking experience. Typically, Jiri to Everest base camp trek starts from Jiri which is located about 188 km/ 116.818 miles away from Kathmandu. Jiri is also known as Switzerland of Nepal due to its natural beauty and mountainous landscape. This comparison is made as landscape of Jiri is similar with that of Switzerland. The region surrounding Jiri is home to green valleys, sloping terrain, snow-capped mountains, and wooden log homes that may resemble those in rural Switzerland.

As the journey starts from Jiri the actual trek begins after reaching Bhandara by vehicle or road. The route encompasses remote village, scenic landscape and snowcapped mountains. The next destinations are Sete, Junbesi, Nuntala, Bupsa, Surke and Phakding until reaching the gateway to Everest Namche Bazar. Hiking past Sete visitors can pass through lush pine forests. The national flower of Nepal, rhododendron can be seen across these forests while reaching a small settlement known as Ghurasey. Upon descending Lamjura- la- pass can be crossed along the way to reach Junbesi. 

After moving past Junbesi trekkers descend to Solung danda along the banks of Beni khola ro reach Ringomo village. After trekking away from Ringmo khola the trails moves towards Takshindu pass to reach Nunthala. Then trekkers move towards Bupsa through Jubing and Kharikhola which are the notable settlements along the route. The next stop after Bupsa is Surke. This section contains magnificient views of Khari La pass of Gyachung Kang and Khumbila mountains.  The next location on this journey is Phakding. It is a small village which serves as stoppage point for trekkers en route to Everest Base Camp. From Phakding trekkers continue to move towards Namche Bazaar. This part involves crossing the famous suspension bridge over Dudh Koshi River where visitors can see the majestic Himalayan peaks including Everest itself.

Upon reaching Namche bazaar, acclimatization day for trekkers begins. This rest day is essential for allowing the body to adjust to high altitude and thinning oxygen levels. In addition to preventing health problems associated with altitude, this acclimatization day offers a chance to take in the breathtaking mountain vistas and fully immerse oneself in the distinctive culture of the Khumbu region.

After acclimatization in Namche bazar trekkers proceed to Tengboche: home to famous Tengboche Monastery. This monastery showcases the Buddhist ritual in the Khumbu region. Continuing further, trekkers move towards a picturesque Sherpa Village known as Pangboche. This village offers excellent views of Ama Dablam (6,812 meters/22,349 feet). The trek then takes onto Dingboche which serves as another acclimatization stop. The journey proceeds to Lobuche however this area is comparatively remote as compared to other stops because of fewer settlements. The last inhabited stop before Everest Base Campis Gorkashep. Trekkers can hike to the actual base camp from this location. Amazing views of the surrounding peaks and the Khumbu Glacier may be seen from the trek.

The next place on route is the ultimate destination which is Everest Base Camp. Upon reaching the base camp visitors tend to feel a sense of accomplishment and awe as they stand in the shadow of world highest peak. It becomes a moment of both physical exhaustion and overwhelming inspiration as the overwhelming size of the mountains and the difficulties of the hike combine with a profound sense of amazement and gratitude for this extraordinary natural marvel. Similarly, trekkers frequently take a detour to Kala Patthar for a sunrise view of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants, even though it's not a place to stay for an extended period of time.

The trip returns to Namche via Pheriche following an unforgettable stay at Everest Base Camp. Travelers can take a detour to retrace their steps and see the stunning villages and scenery they saw en route, giving them a fresh perspective on the region's natural splendor. Trekkers frequently return to Tengboche, Pangboche, and Dingboche on the return journey, where they can re-experience the area's natural and cultural treasures. Enjoying the peace of the place, they continue their descent through verdant forests of rhododendron, rhino deodar, and pine.

 After returning to Namche, trekkers take a return flight to Kathmandu marking the end of the journey.

Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek - 21 Days Altitude and Distance Coverage

What is the best time/season for Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trekking?

The optimum times to trek in Nepal are in the spring and fall, between the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, to reach Everest Base Camp. While the post-monsoon season starts in September and lasts until November, the pre-monsoon season starts in mid-February and lasts until May.

Trekking is ideal during these seasons because of the frequently dry, stable weather with clear skies and good visibility. At lower elevations, daytime temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, whereas at higher elevations, they are between 0 to 10 degrees Celsius.

Holiday Tours Nepal advises against trekking in the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Region during the monsoon season (June to August) due to the likelihood of landslides and flash floods, as well as the possibility of muddy and treacherous pathways. It's also not advisable to go during the winter months of December through January because the paths are prone to snow and ice and it may become rather chilly.

Holiday Tours Nepal generally recommends that the best time to trek from Jiri to Everest Base Camp is during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons because of the reliable weather and comfortable, warm temperatures.

Climate and Weather during Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

The climate and weather around the Solu-Khumbu region varies according to time of year and specific elevation along the route. This region experiences four seasons like spring, summer, autumn and Winter.

Spring which lasts from March to May is one of the most popular time to trek towards Everest Base Camp starting from Jiri. The temperature range during these months is 17 degree Celsius while the maximum temperature is 25 degree Celsius. This moderate temperature enables clear skies making an excellent time for panoramic mountain views. This provides an optimum time for photographs embarking to capture striking views.

Summer which lasts from June to august is considered monsoon season of Nepal. This means the weather around the region becomes unpredictable. Lower elevations can have extreme rainfall making the trail slippery and muddy. Upon ascending in higher elevation rainfall gradually decreases. With that in context, the landscape is covered with clouds obstructing mountain views. The daytime temperature around these months increases up to 22° Celsius. Nights remain frigid at higher elevations, although daytime temperatures are gentler.

Autumn lasts from September to November making it a popular trekking season in the Everest region. The daytime temperature ranges from 6° Celsius to 22° Celsius. The weather is stable with clear skies. This makes up for an excellent viewing experience of nearby mountains including Everest. Even though nights are cold especially at higher elevations, autumn months offer best mountain experience.

Winter lasts from December to February which is the coldest and least popular trek for Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek. Temperature drops significantly which can reach up to -17°C. At higher altitudes the trails are covered with snow and ice, making it a very uncomfortable and dangerous route. There are also prominent chances of closing of Teahouses along the route causing extra trouble for visitors.

Holiday Tours Nepal leaves a crucial note: No matter the season, Visitors should always be prepared for everything because the weather in the Himalayas can be utterly unpredictable. Since high altitude can be dangerous for trekkers, it's also critical to take the right precautions to prevent altitude sickness.

Altitude Sickness during the trek: Reasons and Precautions

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek is considered a tough trekking route. This is mainly due to high altitude and difficult trekking trails. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a major problem for trekkers travelling in Everest region due to lack of Oxygen in high altitude. As trekkers ascend in higher altitude the air pressure decreases. This is due to rapid ascent in higher altitude without giving proper time to acclimatization. In severe situations, it can lead to life-threatening illnesses such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Other reasons can be Dehydration, Poor Physical Condition, Alcohol and Smoking, Poor Nutrition and Individual Variability. The symptoms can be headaches, nausea, dizziness and difficulty during sleeping.

To solve the problem of AMS one should consider the following things:

• Stay warm and hydrated at all times
• Get adequate rest and do not rush your walk
• Avoid overexertion and identify AMS symptoms
• Prepare physically prior heading on the journey
• Carry all the essential gears and equipment
• Be aware of local weather condition and potential risks

Remember that anyone, regardless of age, fitness ability, or past experience at high altitudes, might get AMS. Precautions and careful planning can considerably reduce the risk and make your high-altitude journey more fun and safer. If any symptoms of AMS is seen then please notify your guide provided by Holiday Planner Nepal, and consider an immediate descent to lower altitudes for your safety and well-being. Visitor safety is our top priority.

Accommodation, Food and Bathroom Facilities during Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek provides hotel and food alternatives in a range of locations. The majority of the communities along the road have teahouses and hotels that provide basic amenities like beds and blankets. Restrooms in these locations are frequently shared, and squat toilets are popular. Travelers should be prepared for rudimentary restroom facilities, so bringing your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer is a good idea.

Teahouses and lodges often provide a mix of local and international dishes. Visitors can eat big meals that will provide the energy needed for the journey. Dal Bhat, a classic Nepali rice and lentil soup, is a favorite and is frequently served as an all-you-can-eat option. Noodles, soups, and a variety of snacks may also be on the menu.

Additionally, some lodges can give hot showers, but this service may be charged extra. Holiday Tours Nepal advises all passengers to bring a sleeping bag for extra warmth and comfort, especially on longer trips.

In addition to their housing, meal options, and personal cleanliness, they must be well-prepared for the hike. This includes having the proper clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions, such as warm clothing, rainproof gear, and sturdy footwear. Adequate hydration is still required, so they should bring a reusable water bottle and consider water purification methods.

Furthermore, because medical services in distant places are scarce, it is important for them to carry a thorough medical kit on hand. This kit should include basic first-aid materials and any personal prescriptions that may be required. It is strongly advised that tourists obtain medical counsel before beginning their voyage, especially if they have pre-existing medical concerns.