Frequently Asked Questions
About the Jiri route
What is the Everest Base Camp trek from Jiri?
A 22-day walk that starts at Jiri, east of Kathmandu, and follows the lower foothills to Lukla before joining the main Everest trail. It is the long, classic approach, and the page links it to the route of the first successful Everest expedition.
Why start in Jiri instead of flying to Lukla?
You trade a flight for about nine extra days on foot through Sherpa villages, forest and ridges that few trekkers see. The gradual rise also builds fitness and acclimatisation before the high section.
How do we reach Jiri?
On Day 2 you take a local bus from Kathmandu that takes 8 to 9 hours and arrives late in the day. The first night is in Jiri, which is around 1,860m, and the walking starts the next morning.
Which passes do we cross on the way?
The Lamjura pass on Day 5 and the Khari La on Day 9 are the main crossings before Lukla. Both are long ups and downs through forest rather than high alpine terrain.
What is the rest day for?
Day 6 is a rest day at Junbesi, with an optional visit to Tashi Thongmon monastery. After four hard days it is the chance to recover before the second week, and Day 12 gives another rest at Namche.
The day-by-day rhythm
How many days are spent before Lukla?
Days 3 to 9, so seven days of walking from Jiri via Bhandar, Sete, Junbesi, Nunthala and Bupsa. Lukla is reached on Day 9, then Day 10 to Phakding and Day 11 to Namche.
When do we reach Base Camp and Kala Patthar?
Everest Base Camp (5,364m) is on Day 17 with a night at Gorakshep, and the Kala Patthar sunrise climb (5,545m) is Day 18. Then you descend to Pheriche and return to Lukla by Day 20.
How is this different from the 14-day trek?
It is the same upper trail but with nine extra days of walking from Jiri and more rest. Your page's FAQ mentions a 14-day version that starts with a flight. This listing is the 22-day walking-in route, and the itinerary on the page is the one that applies.
How long is a normal walking day?
Between 5 and 8 hours, reaching the teahouse around 4pm. The days between Jiri and Lukla are long with many ups and downs, and the days above Namche are slower because of altitude.
Fitness and difficulty
Is the Jiri route harder than the flight-in trek?
It is longer and less steady, since you cross passes and lose height repeatedly before the real climb begins. Many find it easier on the body at altitude because of the extra conditioning, but you need stamina for three weeks of walking.
How should I train?
Build to long weekend hikes with a loaded pack, add stairs and hill work, and practise downhill walking. Start at least three months before departure and see a doctor if you have a health concern.
Will I be alone on the trail?
Often, between Jiri and Lukla. The villages are quiet and the lodges simple, which is part of the appeal. From Lukla onward you join the busy Everest trail.
Flights, logistics and money
Do I still fly at all?
Yes, at the end. On Day 21 you fly from Lukla back towards Kathmandu, and the flight currently uses Ramechhap, with a road transfer of about 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions. Weather can delay it, so keep one to four spare days.
What does a helicopter return cost if flights are grounded?
A charter is possible for USD 600 or more per person, and we refund USD 150 of the flight fare (INR 10,000 for Indian nationals) if you use it. Extra hotel nights and meals are your cost.
What are lodges like between Jiri and Lukla?
Simple family-run teahouses with twin rooms, shared bathrooms and dal bhat. Choices are fewer than higher up, and hot showers are not guaranteed.
How many meals are included?
Three meals a day on 19 of the 22 days, with breakfast in Kathmandu. Water, snacks and extras are not included. Plan around USD 300 to 400 (INR 25,000 to 40,000) for extras and tips.
Do I need a visa?
Indian citizens do not. Others buy a visa on arrival (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days), and it is not included. Your 22-day trip needs the 30-day option.
Insurance, safety and team
Is travel insurance compulsory, and what must it cover?
Yes. Your policy must cover trekking to at least 5,545m, emergency medical treatment and helicopter evacuation, and you send us a copy before you travel. See the insurance section of our terms.
What happens if there is an emergency on the trail?
Your guide contacts our Nepal operator, Himalayan Wonders Adventure Pvt. Ltd., which coordinates with your insurer and a helicopter service. Evacuation can cost USD 5,000 or more and is your responsibility, so keep every hospital report for your claim.
Who looks after me in Nepal?
Your guide, porters and drivers, and our Kathmandu office staff, are all employed by Himalayan Wonders Adventure Pvt. Ltd., the Nepal operator that runs your trip. Read about them on the team page.
Money, booking and changes
How do I pay for the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek?
Pay a deposit to book. Indian guests pay by bank transfer or UPI, since we do not take credit cards in India. Guests elsewhere can use transfer or an online card (4.5% processing fee). The balance is paid at our Kathmandu office on arrival in INR, USD, EUR, GBP or another major currency, at the NPR conversion rate on the date of payment (local conversion charges apply). Cards used in Nepal add 13%, so cash is cheaper.
Is my deposit refundable?
50% is refundable for 30 days after you book, and after that it is not. The deposit stays valid for 365 days and can be moved to any trek or climb we offer. If you do not contact us and do not arrive, it is forfeited.
Can I change my dates?
Yes. Rescheduling is free as many times as you need with at least 6 weeks' notice. With 2 to 6 weeks' notice a fee of INR 5,000 (Indian guests) or USD 100 (other guests) applies, and any change needs at least 14 days' notice. You pay any price difference between the old and new date.
What if I leave early?
We cannot refund unused days or services, because guides, porters and hotels are paid for the full period. We help you return, but extra nights, meals and transport are your cost. Some insurers reimburse unused days, so check your policy.
Do I pay extra if I travel alone?
There is no single supplement. Rooms are shared by gender, and couples, families and friends share together. In Kathmandu you share a twin room, or get a single room at no charge if no one of your gender is booked on your dates. On the trek, rooms are twin-sharing. If you are the only person booked on a fixed departure, or you are not joining a group, a Solo Support Fee of INR 1,500 per trekking day covers a dedicated porter. If the fee is not paid and you are the only person booked on your dates, there is no separate licensed trek guide, and a porter-cum-guide leads the trek. We tell you at booking, or as soon as it arises.
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