Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

Spend the day exploring Kathmandu’s timeless cultural treasures. Visit Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Absorb the spiritual aura of ancient architecture and bustling streets. In the afternoon, prepare your trekking gear and supplies, ensuring everything is ready for the first steps toward the Himalayas.

The journey into the Himalayas begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Bhandara (approx. 2,190m). The road winds through rolling hills, river valleys, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages, offering a window into rural Nepali life. As the city fades behind, the landscape becomes quieter and greener. Overnight in a local teahouse, enjoying your first night in the Himalayan foothills.

Your trek officially begins today. The trail ascends gradually through lush forests, terraced fields, and bamboo groves, crossing small streams and shaded paths lined with rhododendrons. The pace is steady, allowing your body to adapt naturally. Sete is a peaceful village perched above a deep river gorge, offering cool mountain air and early glimpses of distant Himalayan peaks.

The trail climbs through dense pine and rhododendron forests, leading into the culturally rich Solu region. Crossing ridgelines and forested paths, you descend into Junbesi, one of the most important Sherpa villages in the area. Home to a historic monastery and Nepal’s oldest nunnery, Junbesi offers a serene atmosphere, traditional stone houses, and views of Kusum Kanguru.

Leaving Junbesi, the trail descends through forested slopes and river valleys, passing mani walls, prayer flags, and small settlements. The path offers a mix of gentle climbs and descents, with changing scenery throughout the day. Nunthala lies in a green valley and provides an ideal place to rest, acclimatize gradually, and experience the slower pace of village life.

Today’s route involves a more challenging climb, crossing suspension bridges and ascending forested ridges. As you gain elevation, the landscape begins to shift, signaling your approach to the Khumbu region. Bupsa is a traditional Sherpa settlement where you are welcomed with warm hospitality and the growing sense that Everest is drawing closer.

The trail descends through forest paths toward the Dudh Koshi Valley, gradually merging with the main Everest trekking routes. Passing small villages and farmlands, you arrive at Surke located near Lukla. The presence of trekkers, lodges, and airstrips adds new energy as you enter the heart of the Everest region.

Following the Dudh Koshi River, today’s walk includes crossing iconic suspension bridges draped with prayer flags. Waterfalls, mani stones, and monasteries line the trail. Phakding  is a charming riverside village where the sound of rushing water accompanies a restful evening.

A challenging but rewarding day as you climb towards Namche. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, the trail ascends steeply through pine forests. On clear days, your first glimpse of Mount Everest appears just before reaching Namche. The town is a vibrant hub with bakeries, cafes, shops, and spectacular mountain views.

A crucial acclimatisation day to help your body adjust to altitude. You hike to the Everest View Hotel, enjoying panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse. The afternoon is spent exploring Namche’s markets, monasteries, and museums, learning about Sherpa culture and Himalayan mountaineering history.

The trail follows scenic ridges with breathtaking views before descending to the Dudh Koshi and climbing again through forests to Tengboche. Home to the region’s most important monastery, Tengboche offers a dramatic setting beneath Ama Dablam. Attending the evening prayer ceremony is a deeply moving spiritual experience.

Descending through rhododendron forests to Pangboche, the trail then climbs into open alpine terrain. Stone-walled fields and yak pastures dominate the landscape as you reach Dingboche surrounded by Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak.

A second acclimatisation day includes a hike to Nangkartshang Peak, rewarding you with panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and surrounding glaciers. The afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and enjoying the quiet high-altitude environment.

The trail becomes more rugged as you follow glacial moraines and sparse alpine terrain. Crossing Dughla and climbing the Thukla Pass, you stop at memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives in the Himalayas. Continue onward to Lobuche, with striking views of the Khumbu Glacier.

A highlight of the journey. You trek to Gorakshep before continuing to Everest Base Camp in the afternoon. Walking alongside the Khumbu Icefall, you reach the legendary base camp where climbers prepare for their summit attempts. After absorbing the atmosphere, return to Gorakshep for the night.

Before dawn, you climb Kala Patthar for breathtaking sunrise views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. After descending and breakfast, you begin your descent through Lobuche and Dingboche to Pangboche. 

Retracing your steps through Tengboche and forested trails, you descend back to Namche Bazaar. Familiar scenery feels transformed by experience, and the evening is spent celebrating your successful high-altitude journey.

The final trekking day follows the Dudh Koshi River back to Lukla. Crossing suspension bridges and passing lively villages, the walk is reflective and relaxed. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking crew, sharing stories from the trail.

Take a scenic mountain flight from Lukla back toward Kathmandu (or Manthali, Ramechhap) , enjoying final aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest, shopping, or relaxation in Thamel.

It is the end day of your Nepal tour vacation. An Iconic Himalaya representative will pick you up from the hotel and take you to Kathmandu International Airport for your home flight. 

Safe travels, and Namaste!