Jiri to EBC Trekking stands out as one of the most authentic and traditional routes in the Everest region that leads to the iconic Everest Base Camp. Before the advent of flying to Lukla, this ‘Classic Everest Trek’ was the primary choice for many mountaineers and trekkers.
Before the construction of the Lukla Airport, Jiri was the favored starting point for most of Mt. Everest’s tours. Now, this trek is for those who have plenty of time and would like to explore the classic route to EBC that Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay used in 1954 AD.
Jiri to Lukla Itinerary before EBC Route
Apart from the new additional experiences, Jiri to Lukla route is also great for older adults and children who fear altitude. To reach Lukla, you require a week-long hike through the Solu Khumbu region’s beautiful countryside. This prepares trekkers to tackle altitude sickness and increases the base camp’s success rate. Unlike the short flight to Lukla, the Jiri variation offers a unique experience.
The Jiri to Everest Base Camp begins with a scenic 7-8 hour bus ride to Bhandar, passing through picturesque villages like Jiri, Mali, and Shivalaya. Jiri, in particular, serves as the starting point for most trekkers.
From Lukla, the trail goes through the famous Everest Base Camp Trek, including famous towns like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
If you would like to cover Gokyo Lakes with your Jiri to EBC Trek itinerary, then you can trek towards Chola Pass after you are back to Gorakshep climbing Kala Patthar (5550 m), the highest point of the trek.
One of the major drawbacks of this Jiri to EBC trek is the extended stay in the Himalayan countryside. However, the longer you stay, the more opportunities you have to witness the daily lives and cultural practices of the Sherpa people.
Highlights of the Jiri to EBC trek- 20 days
- Walk along the classic route from Jiri to Everest Base Camp that Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa used in 1953.
- The trail from Jiri to Lukla goes through some high passes including Deurali Pass (2,705m),
- Lamjura La Pass (3,530m), and Taksindu La Pass (3,071m).
- Relish the majestic view of some major mountains including Everest (8,848m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,481m), Ama Dablam (6,856m), Thamserku (6,623m), etc.
- Visiting several ancient Buddhist monasteries adorned with prayer flags and getting a glimpse of
- Tibetan-influenced Buddhism.
- Explore the ancient Tengboche Monastery, one of the largest in the Khumbu region.
- Enjoy the hospitality of ethnic people of both the Solu and Khumbu regions.
- Reach the Everest base camp (5,364m/17,598ft), feet from the world’s highest peak Everest.
- Hike to the Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,209ft), the best vantage point for a pristine 365-degree view of Himalayan scenery.
- Get close insight into the authentic rich Sherpa culture and lifestyle.
Why choose Jiri to Lukla route for Everest Base Camp Trek?
If you fear flying to Lukla, one of the world’s most dangerous airports, then Jiri to Lukla trail is a boon.
Plus, the trail has a scenic approach, showcasing the charm of the Solu and Khumbu regions. Below are some additional benefits.
Magical Landscape Transformation
The Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is also a roadway approach to Lukla that is a remarkable journey through ever-changing landscapes.
As the trek progress, you witness the gradual change from the lush green hills, rugged terrain, and snow-capped peaks. This magical transition adds an extra layer of beauty and wonder to the trek.
This route is also called Edmund Hillary’s Everest Route. Thus, the experience of walking the historical trail is something unique that we can’t find on the new trail.
Acclimatization Benefits
The Jiri to EBC route presents a more challenging trek compared to flying directly to Lukla. However, this challenge also brings significant acclimatization benefits.
Crossing high passes like Lamjura, Taksindu La, and Deurali Pass prepares you for the thinner air as you climb towards Namche.
Immersive Rural Life Experiences
Embarking on the Jiri route provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic rural life of Nepal. The trail meanders through charming hamlets surrounded by picturesque farmlands and rice terraces.
The towns above Lukla are focused on tourism, but the settlements along this route offer a better view of local life. Watching people do traditional chores like milking cows and farming is heartwarming and enriching.
Less Crowded and Peaceful
Choosing the Jiri route over the direct flight to Lukla allows you to experience a more tranquil and less crowded trail. The serenity of the surroundings enhances the sense of adventure and connection with nature throughout the entire trek.
Authentic Trekking Experience
For travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Jiri to EBC trek is an excellent choice. The three-week-long hike will disconnect from the modern world and fully immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the hills and mountains.
The slower pace of the trek enables one to form a deeper connection with nature. This prolonged journey grants a more genuine trekking experience filled with diverse cultural encounters.
Best time for Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek
The best time for Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek is during the peak seasons of Spring and Autumn. Specifically, the months of April from Spring and October from Autumn are considered the best months for the Everest Base Camp trek.
During these seasons, the weather conditions are stable and favorable. Temperatures are also mild, which is perfect for day hikes. The trail is completely dry and the views are excellent, making it an ideal time for trekking.
In spring, which falls between March to May, the trail from Jiri to Lukla is adorned with colorful rhododendron flowers. Also, the hills are lush green, adding extra beauty to the trekking route.
In October, the major Hindu festival of Dashain is celebrated. So you get to experience the festival vibes along the trail.
However, you should keep in mind that weather conditions, especially in the Himalayas, can be unpredictable due to global warming. In April 2023, there were reports of rainfall and snowfall affecting the route. Therefore, even during the best time, you should be prepared for possible weather changes.
However, trekking during the peak summer months from July to early September is not advisable because of excessively damp weather. Heavy rainfall can lead to flight delays, cancellations, and road blockages from landslides, and flogging.
Accommodation
Jiri to Lukla Accommodation
The initial part of the trek from Jiri to Lukla is rural and has less developed lodge facilities. Accommodations are basic, with small rooms and common bathrooms. The amenities are limited, usually a room consisting of two single beds and a small tea table.
Lukla to Namche Bazaar
As you progress from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, the trail becomes more developed. There is a wider range of accommodation options. The hotels have comfortable beds, hot showers, charging facilities, and Wi-Fi.
Budget teahouses are also available for those who prefer more economical options. In many tea houses along the trek, there are communal dining areas where trekkers can gather, eat meals, and socialize.
Above Namche
As you ascend higher and get closer to Everest Base Camp, the availability of luxurious hotels diminishes. The accommodations become more basic, with similar rooms and common bathrooms. Accommodation costs increase at higher elevations due to logistical challenges.
Toilet and Shower Facilities on Jiri to Lukla then to EBC Route
The trek from Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek begins by taking a road journey from Kathmandu to Bhandar. Initially, during the early days of the trek, you will experience the ruler side of Nepal.
Teahouses along this part are quite basic, offering squat toilet facilities. Hot showers are not readily available. But there is a chance of getting a hot bucket of water for a shower for extra cost. But cold showers are freely available.
As you progress on the trail, particularly from Lukla, there are teahouses and lodges with more amenities. Western toilets and hot shower facilities become available in many lodges. While some hotels might charge for hot showers, the majority offer them without an additional fee.
But beyond Namche, the hot showers will be limited. Few lodges provide hot bucket water for the shower at an additional cost.
For toilets and showers on Everest Base Camp Trek, you can visit here.
Why Us?
When you choose to book an Everest Base Camp trek package with Heaven Himalaya, you'll already be ahead of other trekkers in terms of service and benefits.
A local mountain trekking guide with extensive knowledge of the routes will accompany you. Booking with us means you'll walk with Sherpa locals and support their livelihood.
While foreign companies offer similar trips to Everest Base Camp, they can't do it on their own. They hire government-registered companies like us in Nepal. Booking with them means you'll pay intermediaries' fees out of your pocket.
By planning your trip with us, you'll pay the lowest cost with no commission fees.
Additionally, you'll benefit from
- A focus on clients' safety, with our trip organized with the utmost safety in mind
- The best price guarantee
- Free transfers from the airport to the hotel and back in a private vehicle
- Trained, government-licensed local guides who have an entire knowledge of local routes
- Support for locals to earn their living through tourism
- An oximeter for monitoring oxygen levels while on a high-altitude EBC trek
- Guides with medical kits to handle situations that may arise
- Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets
- Free storage at the Heaven Himalaya office store for extra luggage during your tour
- A duffel bag to transfer your items from luggage to be carried during the journey
- A free porter to help carry your heavy bags.
