Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek: The Classic Everest Adventure (18 Days Itinerary & Cost)

Picture yourself walking the same path as legends like Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay away from the bustling crowds. Most people choose the faster option of flying into Lukla, but the classic Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek offers a genuine experience, a stronger bond with the journey, and a unique feeling of achievement.

This isn’t just a hike. It’s an 18-day journey through Nepal that uncovers its rich mid-hills, the lively Sherpa traditions, and , the breathtaking icy peaks of the Khumbu. It’s meant for people who care about more than just reaching the end. They value the path they walk.

Are you ready to take on a real Himalayan adventure? Let’s explore what makes this original Everest Base Camp route unforgettable.

Why Pick the Classic Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek?

In a fast-paced world, the Jiri route gives you the chance to slow down. Here is why so many trekkers are drawn back to this timeless trail.

• Genuine Experience: The moment you board a local bus in Kathmandu Nepali life surrounds you. You travel through scenic villages, see layered fields, and meet warm local people well before reaching the main Everest trail.
• Better Altitude Adjustment: Starting from Jiri gives your body time to adjust as the elevation increases. Moving at this slower pace helps lower the chance of altitude sickness and makes the whole trek both safer and more pleasant.
• Avoid the Crowds On: The trek’s first stretch feels calm and quiet compared to the busy Lukla-Namche – Gorakshep – Base Camp trail. It lets you enjoy the peaceful vibe of the Himalayas and spend time with nature.
• Walk Through History: You’ll follow the same route taken by early Everest explorers. Every step gives a sense of adventure and reminds you of the daring achievements of the past.
• Varied Scenery: Starting with lush terraced hills around Jiri and ending in the dry elevated Khumbu region, the trek reveals Nepal’s stunning and ever-changing landscapes.

Choose Your Starting Point: Jiri or Bhandar?

People once called Jiri the “Gateway to Everest” since it marked the end of the road from Kathmandu. In recent times, the road has reached deeper into the Solu Khumbu region. You can still start trekking from Jiri, but most now prefer driving a bit further to begin the journey.

Our 18-day plan kicks off with a drive to Bhandar. This way, the road trims off a day of hiking without cutting down on the time needed to adjust to the altitude. It also means avoiding extra time on dusty roads.

Like the classic route? If you’d like to kick off your journey right from Jiri, following the exact trail that Hillary and Tenzing started on, we can set up a tailored 19-day plan. This option includes an additional day to hike between Jiri and Bhandar. Let us know what suits you when you reach out!

Jiri (or Bhandar) to Everest Base Camp Trek: Your 18-Day Adventure

This detailed plan lets you make the most of your trek combining tough hiking with proper acclimatization so you get to explore and connect with the Everest area.

Day 1: Travel from Kathmandu to Bhandar (2,190m)

• About 8 to 10 hours drive
  • We kick off our journey bright and leaving behind Kathmandu’s lively streets to take on the twisty mountain roads. Riding the local bus feels like its own adventure. Through the windows, you’ll see the busy energy of towns change into peaceful countryside scenes. Need more comfort? You can upgrade to a private jeep. By sunset, we reach the charming village of Bhandar settling in for the night at the edge of the foothills.

Day 2: Hiking from Bhandar to Sete (2,575m)

• About 6–7 hours of trekking
  • Today kicks off our journey on foot. We start by heading down through scenic villages and terraced farmlands then cross a river before climbing to reach Sete. The path is clear and gives a peek into everyday life, with locals greeting us with “Namaste.” The air feels fresher here, and the quiet of nature replaces the noise of the city.

Day 3: Walk from Sete to Junbesi (2,700m) while crossing Lamjura La Pass (3,530m)

• About 6–7 hours of trekking
  • The day kicks off with our first major mountain pass. We start climbing up steep trails that wind through thick forests of rhododendrons and pines. The higher we climb the more the scenery transforms around us. When we reach Lamjura La Pass at 3,530 meters, the colorful prayer flags and sweeping views feel like a well-earned achievement. After that, we descend toward the peaceful Sherpa village of Junbesi, a place known for its serene atmosphere and a charming monastery.

Day 4: Hike from Junbesi to Nunthala (2,220m) passing through Ringmo and Taksindu La Pass (3,071m)

• About 6 to 7 hours of trekking
  • The day covers a mix of landscapes. The journey begins with an easy uphill walk to Ringmo well-known because of its apple orchards and made cider. After that, the path rises toward Taksindu La Pass, which gives trekkers breathtaking views of the mountains. Once the views are admired, the trail goes downhill through forests and small towns until reaching the peaceful village of Nunthala. This village rests along the Dudh Koshi River.

Day 5: Hike from Nunthala to Khari Khola (2,020m)

• Around 6 to 7 hours of trekking
  • The walk today takes us downhill. We move through vibrant green valleys and follow the Dudh Koshi, or Milk River named after its cloudy glacial waters. Along the way, we walk past small villages taking in the peaceful atmosphere and watching daily life unfold. Khari Khola is a bustling village home to Sherpa and Rai communities making it a welcoming place to rest overnight.

Day 6: Hike from Khari Khola to Surke (2,290m)

• Around 6 to 7 hours of trekking
  • The day kicks off with a steep ascent from Khari Khola. Once at the top, the path eases into a gentle walk winding through terraced farmland and colorful rhododendron woods. Suspension bridges stretch across loud rushing rivers bringing a lively vibe to the journey. By the time we reach Surke, a small village right below Lukla, we start sensing the closeness of the main Everest trail.

Day 7: Trekking from Surke to Phakding (2,610m)

• About 5 to 6 hours of walking
  • Today, the Jiri route joins up with the well-traveled Lukla trail. You’ll spot more hikers and porters along the way making it clear you’re getting closer to the heart of the Khumbu region. The trail goes past colorful mani walls spinning prayer wheels small Sherpa villages, and follows alongside the Dudh Koshi River. We arrive at Phakding, a lively village that gives us our first proper views of the massive peaks.

Day 8: Walk from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,290ft)

• Around 6 hours of hiking
  • This is a well-known trekking day that ends at the famous Namche Bazaar. Along the way, we pass over some exciting suspension bridges, with the Hillary Suspension Bridge standing out as a highlight. These crossings give breathtaking views of the river down below. The final stretch up to Namche is tough and uphill but well worth it. The town shaped like a horseshoe and nestled in the mountains, comes into view as you finish the climb. Namche is a lively center in the Khumbu region and a great spot to relax and look around.

Day 9: Rest and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

• Excursion to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) or a visit to Khumjung village before returning
  • Acclimatizing plays a big role in having a smooth trek. The plan for today follows the “hike high sleep low” principle. Head out on a refreshing trip to Everest View Hotel where you can see incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Another option is to check out the Sherpa village of Khumjung. You can visit the monastery that is said to hold a yeti scalp and get a glimpse of what local life is like. This low-key day lets your body get used to the altitude getting you ready to climb higher terrain.

Day 10: Hike from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m / 12,660ft)

• Around 5 hours of hiking You start the day with a calm morning before heading out on a gentle trail from Namche.
  • The path runs through the Dudh Koshi valley and gives incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam along the way. The trail dips down to the river and then takes you on a steady climb uphill to reach Tengboche. This village is known as the spiritual center of the Khumbu region and is home to the stunning Tengboche Monastery surrounded by spectacular mountains. There will be time to look around and possibly join a prayer ceremony.

Day 11: Hike from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360m / 14,300ft)

• About 5 hours of walking
  • We hike down through a rhododendron forest to reach Deboche and then cross the Imja Khola. The trail climbs upward as the air turns drier with the increasing altitude, and trees start thinning out. On the way, we go through Pangboche, an old Sherpa village, before moving on to Dingboche. This village located in the Imja Valley, has lovely fields protected by stone fences.

Day 12: Rest day to adjust in Dingboche

• Climb Nagartsang Hill at 5,100m and return to Dingboche
  • This day marks an important part of getting used to the higher altitude. Dingboche serves as a perfect place to adapt as we spend the day climbing Nagartsand (aka Nagarjun Hill) or a similar viewpoint. The hike is tough but worth it, with amazing views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cholatse, and nearby peaks waiting at the top. Using the “climb high sleep low” way helps us prepare for going even higher later on. The afternoon is free to rest, read a book, or play some card games back at the teahouse.

Day 13: Walk from Dingboche to Lobuche at 4,940m / 16,207ft

• We spend about five hours trekking today.
  • Our journey takes us into the high Himalayas. The trail slopes upward at an easy pace moving through yak grazing areas and past stone memorials honoring climbers who died on Everest. The sight of Tawoche and Cholatse is breathtaking. Following the Khumbu Glacier’s rocky moraine, we make our way to Lobuche, a tiny village with simple teahouses. The cold of the high altitude settles in as we get closer to reaching our big goal.

Day 14: Walk up to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft) and head back down to Gorak Shep (5,170m / 16,961ft)

• About 7 to 8 hours of trekking
  • This is the moment so many have looked forward to! The day begins at Lobuche as we make our way across the rocky moraine next to the Khumbu Glacier heading toward Gorak Shep. After a brief stop there, we push ahead to reach Everest Base Camp (EBC). Standing among the vibrant tents during the busy climbing season, with the stunning Khumbu Icefall right in front of you, brings a feeling that is hard to describe. We take some time to absorb the energy of the place, snap photos, and revel in our accomplishment before heading back to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

Day 15: Begin early hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m / 18,192ft) to see sunrise then head to Pheriche (4,270m / 14,070ft)

• Close to 7 hours of trekking Starting the day early is tough but worth it.
  • Hikers climb Kala Patthar, a famous spot that gives unmatched sunrise views of Mount Everest. Watching sunlight touch the top of the world’s tallest mountain is unforgettable. After soaking in the view, they make their way back down to Gorak Shep to eat breakfast. The journey continues with a long walk towards Pheriche, a breezy village known for its Himalayan Rescue Association base.

Day 16: Walk from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,290ft)

• About 6 to 7 hours of walking
  • Heading downhill makes today’s journey much easier. We follow the same trail through Tengboche enjoying the lovely views along the way until we reach the busy streets of Namche Bazaar. Seeing familiar places and relaxing in Namche feels rewarding after the tough days at higher altitudes.

Day 17: Walk from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840m / 9,320ft)

• About 6 hours of trekking
  • On our last trekking day, we drop downhill from Namche. The suspension bridges that were tough on the climb up now feel like part of an easy walk. We move through Phakding on our way to Lukla, the starting point of the Everest region. In the evening, we join our guide and porters to honor the amazing journey we completed together.

Day 18: Morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu and hotel transfer

• The Everest trip ends with an exciting morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
  • Flying over the mountains, you will take with you memories of tough hikes towering peaks, and the welcoming Sherpa culture. Once you land in Kathmandu, you will head straight to your hotel to either relax or check out more of the city.

Jiri to EBC Trek Cost: What’s Covered and What Isn’t

We want to keep things clear so you know what’s included.

Trek Cost:

• For 1 person: USD 1,825
• For 2 people or more: USD 1,410 per person

What You Get:

• Traveling to Bhandar on local buses: Begin your trek with a genuine Nepali travel experience as we ride to the starting point. You can choose to upgrade to a private jeep at an extra cost if you want a more comfortable ride.
• Standard meals are included ~ breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You’ll enjoy hearty meals from teahouse menus that keep your energy up for the trek.
• Teahouse stays along the trail: Relax in cozy traditional teahouses that offer both warmth and shelter after a long day on the trail.
• Guided by a licensed, English-speaking guide: Our experienced guides know the region well. They are trained in first aid and love sharing their knowledge and stories about the culture with you.
• Porter Service (one porter for every two trekkers). Our porters carry your main bags so trekking becomes easier and more enjoyable. We make sure they are paid and treated well.
• One-way flight from Lukla with airport transfer: You will take a return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu to wrap up your trek .
• Trek Permits: Mosaic Adventure takes care of all needed permits such as the Sagarmatha National Park fee and local permissions so you don’t have to worry about it.
• You can borrow a Mosaic Adventure duffel bag, a down jacket, and a down sleeping bag during the trek. Let us know if you need any of these! There’s no need to spend money on gear you’ll use once. Our high-quality equipment will keep you cozy and prepared.
• Trek Completion Certificate (available upon request after your trek): A unique keepsake to remember your amazing accomplishment.
• Your guide carries a detailed first aid kit for emergencies. We focus on your safety, and our guides can address minor injuries if needed.
• All Necessary Taxes: The package price includes all required government taxes, so no extra costs surprise you.

What Is Left Out:

• Kathmandu Stay and Meals Around Trekking Days: You can pick where to stay and eat in Kathmandu based on what works best for you.
• Spending on Personal Items: Things like Wi-Fi, charging gadgets hot showers, laundry, and snacks depend on your choices. Plan to set aside $20-30 USD to cover these costs.
• Drinks and Beverages: Drinks such as coffee, tea soft drinks, and bottled water are not part of the package. You can buy these yourself from teahouses.
• Travel Insurance: We strongly suggest buying travel insurance that offers coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations. It helps ensure your safety and peace of mind if unexpected events occur. Although it’s not a strict requirement to join, it’s advisable.
• Personal Trekking Gear: You’ll need to bring your own trekking clothes and gear for the Everest Base Camp trek. We do offer duffel bags, jackets, and sleeping bags upon request, but the rest is not provided. [Check out our packing list blog post for more details!]
• Tips: Giving tips to your guide and porters is a thoughtful way to recognize their effort and dedication. These tips play an important role in supporting their livelihood.
• Unexpected Situations: Mosaic Adventure does not cover losses or extra costs caused by unexpected events beyond their control such as flight delays from bad weather or natural disasters. To handle these risks, we recommend getting full travel insurance.

Key Things to Know About the Jiri to EBC Trek

Preparing to take on a trek of this magnitude requires thoughtful preparation and understanding.

• Getting Ready Physically: This trek is tough and demands solid fitness. To get ready, include running, swimming, or cycling in your routine. Add strength workouts and go on regular hikes or long walks while carrying a backpack in the months before your trip.
• Avoiding Altitude Sickness: The plan we follow allows your body to adjust well to the altitude. Drinking plenty of water pacing yourself , and sharing any discomfort or signs of sickness with your guide are important steps. Remember the key rule: “Climb high sleep low.”
• When to Go Trekking: The best months are Spring (March to May) when rhododendrons are in full bloom and the weather is mild. Autumn (September to November) is also perfect, as it offers stable weather and clear skies for trekking.
• Visa and Permits: Travelers need a Nepalese visa, which they can get on arrival. Mosaic Adventure takes care of organizing all the trek permits.
• Connectivity and Charging: Most teahouses offer Wi-Fi and allow you to charge devices for a fee. These services might not work well in higher altitude areas. Carrying a power bank is a must.
• Environmental Responsibility: We urge trekkers to act while traveling. Take everything back that you bring, respect the culture of the locals, avoid waste, and use resources .

Other Well-Known Everest Trekking Path Options

The Jiri or Bhandar path provides a traditional and authentic adventure. However, the Everest area has a wide range of trekking options. Below are some other routes you could explore, based on how much time you have, your fitness level, and what kind of experience you want.

Everest Base Camp Trek (via Lukla Flight):

• Duration: lasts around 12 to 14 days.
• Overview: This is the most common and quickest trek to Everest Base Camp. It begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla. The route follows the main path through spots like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche before arriving at EBC.
• Great fit for: People who are short on time, want to skip long land drives, or are trying out high-altitude trekking for the first time on a familiar path.

Everest Three Passes Trek:

• Duration: 18 to 21 days (often paired with EBC and Gokyo Lakes).
• Overview: This tough yet incredibly fulfilling trek takes you across three high-altitude passes – Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). You get breathtaking views of several 8,000m peaks from different perspectives. Most itineraries include stops at Everest Base Camp and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes.
• Best suited to: Everest Three Passes Trek is for those trekkers with experience and excellent fitness levels who want a serious challenge fewer crowds, and the most in-depth exploration of the Khumbu area.

Gokyo Lakes Trek (often combined with Gokyo Ri):

• Duration: 10-14 days
• Overview: Gokyo Lakes trek takes a path away from the usual EBC trail at Namche Bazaar leading west into the scenic Gokyo Valley. Trekkers get a chance to visit the holy turquoise glacial lakes and climb Gokyo Ri at an altitude of 5,357 meters. This peak offers a unique view of Everest, Cho Oyu, and the Ngozumpa Glacier. You can also combine it with the EBC trail using the Cho La Pass.
• Ideal for: Trekkers wanting to see beautiful lakes, escape the busier EBC routes, and experience fresh views of the Everest region.

Everest Base Camp Trek without Lukla Flights to Salleri or Surke:

• Duration: About 15 to 17 days.
• Overview: EBC trek without Lukla flights route skips the Lukla flight altogether by driving deeper into the Solu region, like Salleri or Surke, and starting the trek there. It combines road travel and trekking giving you an alternative way to join the main EBC trail.
• Ideal for: People who want to avoid flying into Lukla, want to save money on flights, or have extra days to spare for the trip.

Every route has its own special appeal and difficulties. If you can’t decide which one fits you best, feel free to ask for help!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is trekking from Jiri to EBC more difficult than flying to Lukla?

A: Yes, people often find it harder because it takes longer and involves major altitude shifts right at the start. But the extended route helps trekkers adjust better to the altitude , which can make it easier to handle the higher days. It also gives a deeper look into the local culture.

Q: What type of food will I find during the trek?

A: Teahouses serve local Nepali and Tibetan meals such as Dal Bhat, which includes rice, lentil soup, and vegetables. This is a common choice for trekkers. You might also find options like noodle soups, momos (dumplings), and sometimes simple Western meals like pasta, pizza, or pancakes. The food tends to be filling and healthy.

Q: How much should I plan to spend on personal costs?

A: While the meals provided will cover your main food needs, we suggest setting aside around USD 20 to 30 for extra costs. This could cover things like using hot showers, paying for Wi-Fi or battery charging buying extra snacks, and drinks like tea, coffee, sodas, or bottled water.

Q: What type of guide and porter will join the trek?

A: Our guides know the region . They are licensed by the government, have a lot of experience, speak fluent English, and have first-aid skills. Porters play an important role in the trek. They come from local areas, are very strong, and earn fair wages. We make sure they have insurance and proper equipment.

Q: Is it possible to change the itinerary?

A: This 18-day plan is our usual schedule, but we get that people may want tweaks. Reach out to us to talk about making changes that suit you better.

Dreaming of a Classic Everest Journey?

The trek from Jiri (or Bhandar) to Everest Base Camp offers much more than a simple hike. It’s a unique chance to discover yourself dive into Himalayan culture, and experience nature’s breathtaking beauty up close. If you want to push your limits embrace the true essence of the Himalayas, and follow the historic trail to the base of the tallest mountain on Earth, this is your moment.

Walk with Mosaic Adventure, and we’ll make sure you’re supported every step of the way in this unforgettable expedition. This is where your amazing Everest adventure starts!

[Click here to WhatsApp us and start planning your Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek with Mosaic Adventure!]

About Mosaic Adventure

Mosaic Adventure runs as a top trekking and tour company in Kathmandu Nepal. With over 15 years of experience, we focus on creating memorable adventures in the Himalayas. Our expert local guides, who care about Nepal, lead these journeys. We aim to offer safe and genuine experiences, while promoting sustainable tourism to protect nature and support local communities. To learn more, visit our main “About Us” page.