Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek – Classical Route

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Classical Route view from Bupsa
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Are you planning to go for a trek to Everest Base Camp? How about trying the classical route used by the pioneers of mountaineering? Yes, Walk Mountain has brought you a peaceful off-beaten classical trekking route to reach Everest Base Camp. If you are an adventurous person seeking escapade the Classic Everest Base Camp could be one of the great experiences for you. 

Duration
18 Days
Trip Grade
Strenous
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5,545 m (Kalapathhar)
Group Size
10
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
Spring (March-May), Autumn (September-November)

Highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek from Jiri

  • Classical/ Traditional Route to Everest Base Camp that was used by pioneering mountaineers, including Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa.
  • Peaceful off the beaten track to test your physical endurance and ability. 
  • Iconic view of mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Taboche and many others.
  • Explore the vibrant Sherpa Capital, Namche Bazaar.
  • Exploring the UNESCO Site, Sagarmatha National Park, which is also the first National Park in Nepal.
  • The holiest and oldest Monastery of the Everest Region, Tengboche Monastery
  • Knowledge of the customs, culture, and traditions of the Sherpa people residing in the region.
  • Breathtaking View of Mountains from the Base of Mt. Everest and the best sunrise view from Kalapathhar that will be remembered for a lifetime.

Overview of the Classical Route to Everest Base Camp Trek

The Classical Route to Everest Base Camp, also known as the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek, is one of the oldest routes to reach Everest Base Camp before Lukla Airport was made. This route was taken by the old pioneer mountaineers for climbing Mount Everest, including Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. So, this trail to EBC is the classical route that holds a lot of meaning for people who acknowledge history and adventure.

This Jiri to EBC Trek will take you through the peaceful local villages, off-beaten track up to Phakding, where you will catch up on the same trekking route up to the base camp. You will get the best opportunity to catch up on the authentic lifestyle of people. This itinerary has been designed with the best consultation from the experienced trekkers and mountaineers, ensuring adequate time for acclimatization as well. 
This 18-day jaunt will challenge your physical and mental strength, making the trek feel like a lifetime achievement with plenty of memories for a lifetime. The journey starts from the drive to Jiri via Kathmandu. Jiri is a beautiful small town in eastern Nepal. Your final stop today will be at Bhandar after the long drive of 8 -10 hours. 

This voyage to Everest Base Camp will take you to a dynamic change in the environment, culture, customs, and people. You will find the Brahmin, Chettri Hindu people in the town valley. As you ramble towards Lukla, the settlement gradually changes to Tamang, Gurung, and Sherpa communities.  You will traverse through villages like Sete, Junbesi, Nunthala, Bupsa, and Surke before reaching Phakding. The terrain to reach Phakding is sometimes steep and sometimes gentle. However, the pathway captures the best local lifestyle of people living in Dudh Koshi Valley.

After Phakding, you will unite with the popular Everest Base Camp Trekking Trail, where you will get to know about the Sherpa Community that migrated from Tibet to Nepal in the 15th or 16th century, ancient monasteries, and their cultural practice. This 18-day arduous journey will take you to lush green verdure of the hilly region to the alpine vegetation of the mountain region. The shifting from a wide range of flora and fauna to zero vegetation will make you breathless. You will be out of breath not only from the modulating geographies but also from the changing environment and altitude. 

The last place before reaching the base of the mighty Everest is Gorakshep with an altitude of 5,140 m above the sea level where you will face the most challenging time of your life. Following day, you will be reaching at the base of Mount Everest. The achievement you will feel at the base of Everest cannot be described. You will feel the out of the world, once in a lifetime experience that WalkMountain can help to acquire. 
Our expert team with the best guide will help to reach the base of the world using the pioneer route of EBC. We have customized the standard itinerary consulting with the experts but you can just re-arrange the itinerary by consulting with our team of experts.

Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek – Classical Route Day-to-day Itinerary
Day 10: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
  • Max Altitude: Tengboche (3,860 m/ 12,664 ft)
  • Distance: 9 -9.5 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 18: Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,310 m/ 4,297 ft)
  • Duration: 35 min (flight)
Day 17: Descent from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
  • Max Altitude: Lukla (2,840 m/ 9,317 ft)
  • Distance: 16 km
  • Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Day 16: Trek back from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
  • Max Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/ 11,286 ft)
  • Distance: 16 km
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Day 15: Hike from Gorakshep to Kalapathhar, Descent to Pheriche
  • Max Altitude: Kalapathhar (5,545 m/ 18,192 ft)
  • Distance: 2 km + 19.6 km
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Day 14: Lobuche to Gorakshep , Hike to Everest Base Camp
  • Max Altitude: Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/ 17,598 ft)
  • Distance: 4 km + 3.5km
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Day 13: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
  • Max Altitude: Lobuche (4,910 m/ 16,108 ft)
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 12: Acclimatization at Dingboche
  • Max Altitude: Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m/ 16,675 ft)
  • Distance: 2 – 3 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 11: Trek to Dingboche from Tengboche
  • Max Altitude: Dingboche (4,410 m/ 14,468 ft)
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 01: Kathmandu to Bhandar via Jiri
  • Max Altitude: Bhandar (2,190m/ 7,185 ft)
  • Distance: 187 km
  • Duration: 8 to 10 hour drive
Day 09: Acclimatization on Namche Bazaar, Hike to Hotel Everest View
  • Max Altitude: Hotel Everest View (3,880 m/ 12,730 ft)
  • Distance: 2- 3 km
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 08: Trek to Namche Bazaar
  • Max Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/ 11,286 ft)
  • Distance: 7.4 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 07: Trek to Phakding from Surke
  • Max Altitude: Phakding (2,610m/ 8,562 ft)
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 06: Trek from Bupsa to Surke
  • Max Altitude: Surke (2,290 m/7,513 ft)
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 05: Nunthala to Bupsa
  • Max Altitude: Bupsa (2,360 m/ 7,742 ft)
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 04: Trek to Nunthala from Junbesi
  • Max Altitude: Nunthala (2,220 m/ 7,283 ft)
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Duration: 6 hours
Day 03: Trek from Sete to Junbesi
  • Max Altitude: Lamjura Pass (3,530 m/ 11,581 ft)
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Duration: 6 hours
Day 02: Bhandar to Sete
  • Max Altitude: Sete (2,575 m/ 8,448 ft)
  • Distance: 14 km
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Detailed Itinerary
Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all
Max Altitude: Tengboche (3,860 m/ 12,664 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 9 -9.5 km
Elevation Gain:420 m/ 1,377 ft
Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,310 m/ 4,297 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 35 min (flight)
Elevation Loss:1530 m/ 5,019 ft
Max Altitude: Lukla (2,840 m/ 9,317 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 to 7 hoursDistance: 16 km
Elevation Loss:600 m/ 1,968 ft
Max Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/ 11,286 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 16 km
Elevation Loss:840m/ 2,755 ft
Max Altitude: Kalapathhar (5,545 m/ 18,192 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 2 km + 19.6 km
Elevation Gain:405m/ 1,328 ft
Elevation Loss:860 m/2,821 ft
Max Altitude: Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/ 17,598 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 4 km + 3.5km
Elevation Gain:454 m/ 1,489 ft
Max Altitude: Lobuche (4,910 m/ 16,108 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 4 to 5 hoursDistance: 8 km
Elevation Gain:500 m/ 1,640 ft
Max Altitude: Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m/ 16,675 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 2 – 3 km
Max Altitude: Dingboche (4,410 m/ 14,468 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 9 km
Elevation Gain:550 m/1,804 ft
Max Altitude: Bhandar (2,190m/ 7,185 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House/ LodgeDuration: 8 to 10 hour driveDistance: 187 km
Elevation Gain:880 m/ 2,887 ft
Max Altitude: Hotel Everest View (3,880 m/ 12,730 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 4 to 5 hoursDistance: 2- 3 km
Max Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/ 11,286 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 7.4 km
Elevation Gain:830 m/ 2,723 ft
Max Altitude: Phakding (2,610m/ 8,562 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 4 to 5 hoursDistance: 12 km
Elevation Gain:320 m/ 1,049 ft
Max Altitude: Surke (2,290 m/7,513 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 9 km
Elevation Loss:70 m/ 229 ft
Max Altitude: Bupsa (2,360 m/ 7,742 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 9 km
Elevation Gain:140 m/ 459 ft
Max Altitude: Nunthala (2,220 m/ 7,283 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 12 km
Elevation Loss:450 m/1,476 ft
Max Altitude: Lamjura Pass (3,530 m/ 11,581 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House/ LodgeDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 11 km
Elevation Gain:955 m/3,133 ft
Max Altitude: Sete (2,575 m/ 8,448 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House / LodgeDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 14 km
Elevation Gain:385 m/ 1,263 ft
Cost Details
Includes
  • Airfare from Kathmandu- Lukla- Kathmandu including tax
  • Accommodation at Lodges/Teahouses during the Trek (Twin- Sharing)
  • Meals on Full Board during the Trek ( Breakfast – Lunch- Dinner)
  • Experienced & Licensed Local Trekking Guide
  • Permits for Sagarmatha National Park and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
  • Medical Kit for safety of the trekkers.
  • Porter for trekker luggage (if required), one porter for 2 people, maximum weight up to 16 kg for porter.
  • Farewell Dinner at Kathmandu
  • Certificate of Completion (if required)
Excludes
  • International Airfare, Nepal Visa Fee
  • Travel & Health Insurance ( Helicopter Rescue ride in case of emergency) or any kind of insurance related things
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Personal Expenses (shopping, snacks, water bottle, soft drinks, souvenir, electricity and others)
  • Other extra costs caused by various uncertainty like landslides, weather conditions, illness, change in governmental policy, etc.
  • Tips for Guide and Potter (expected)
Route Map
Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek Map
Altitude Chart
Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek Altitude Chart
Essential Information

Why choose Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp Trek via Jiri also known as the classical route to Everest is a legendary trail that follows the footsteps of mountaineering pioneers like Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. This route was followed until the Tenzing Hillary Airport of Lukla was constructed. 

Unlike the famous Lukla route, this trek allows for gradual acclimatization, offering attested trekking experience through diverse landscapes of Nepal. By choosing the Everest via Jiri Trek, you will start noticing the change in culture, varied landscapes, remote terrain before reaching the base of the mighty, Mount Everest at making the most of your experience in this journey. 

If you want to embark on a less crowded, scenic and culturally rich journey with the historical footpath, the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is a perfect gateway for you. 

How to prepare for the Classic Everest Base Camp Trekking?

The Everest Base Camp Trek from Jiri is longer than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek, this trek requires physical endurance and mental resilience, so you should focus on building stamina, strength, and altitude acclimatization. 

For the physical fitness, you can start the training 3 – 4 months before the trek. Engage yourself in the cardiovascular workouts like running, cycling, swimming for better breathing and endurance.  You can also practice hiking with a weighted backpack to simulate the trekking conditions also make sure to do the strength training exercises for legs and core. 

For the mental resilience, you can practice yoga and meditation that can help with mental endurance and breathing control. You must be aware that the Everest Region lies in the remote areas so just expect the basic accommodations, meals and unpredictable weather conditions. Also, maintain a positive attitude and adapt to the trail conditions. For a detailed Everest Base Camp Trek guide, check out our blog on How to Prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek.

How hard is the Everest Base Camp Trek via Jiri Trek? Can beginners go for it?

The EBC Trek via Jiri is considered a strenuous trek due to its long duration, high altitude, and daily hiking distance of 6-8 hours. The trail features steep ascents and descents, making it physically challenging. However, with proper preparation and gradual acclimatization, even beginners can complete this trek.

What permits are required for the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trekking (2025 Update)?

The Everest Base Camp via Jiri Trek requires the following permits

  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit: TIMS permit is issued because it helps to track trekkers and it is required to ensure the safety of the trekkers. 
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit is required for Everest Base camp trek because it helps in supporting the local development projects and infrastructure contributing to the welfare of Sherpa people living in the area. 
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: The Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit is required in the trek as the entry fees are invested in conserving the park’s environment and biodiversity, supporting local development and managing the number of visitors. 
  • Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit: As the trek starts from Ramechhap, you will require the GCAP, while doing this trek.  The GCAP permit is required to ensure the region isn't overwhelmed by tourism. 

Best Season for Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trekking

There is no perfect season for trekking. For an adventure enthusiast, you can go for trekking any time of the year. But if you are willing to know the ideal time for this trek, it is during Spring (March- May) and Autumn (September- November). 

During the Spring Season, the sky is clear with blooming rhododendron and the temperature is moderate. During Autumn, the weather is stable with the breathtaking views of mountains and ideal trekking conditions. 

From December to February (Winter), the weather is harsh but the crowds are very less. This weather is perfect for experienced trekkers that loves trekking even in extreme cold situation. This time also provides the view of snow-capped mountains. 

From June to August, mostly known as the monsoon period. We do not highly recommend due to heavy rainfall and muddy trails.

What are the chances of altitude sickness and what can you do to prevent it during the trek?

There are some chances of altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp classical route trekking. As you would be hiking towards the higher altitude, you will start noticing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. You cannot avoid Acute Mountain Sickness but you can surely prevent it to minimize the risks. Following is some of the ways to prevent AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness):

  • Proper Acclimatization
  • Hydrate and eat high-energy foods
  • Ascend slowly 
  • Carry medications like Diamox (Acetazolamide) if needed
Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek – Classical Route Equipment Lists
Head
  • Sun Hat or Cap
  • Scarf
  • Light balaclava
  • Warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
Upper Body
  • T-shirts (Long sleeve/Short sleeve)
  • Thermal Base Layer (for cold regions)
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof, windproof shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket
Hands
  • Soft Lightweight gloves
  • Hard Shell outer gloves (for harsh conditions)
Lower Body
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
  • Thermal trousers/leggings
  • Hiking shorts/ pants (convertible)
  • Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
  • Waterproof/ Quick drying pants
Feet
  • Thin, lightweight inner socks
  • Thick, warm technical hiking socks
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Gaiters
  • Camp shoes
Toiletries and Personal Items
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Lip Balm with High SPF
  • Toilet Paper/ Wet wipes
  • 1 medium sized quick drying towel
  • Tooth brush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Small mirror
General Gears and Equipment
  • Sleeping bag rated to 0o F (provided by company)
  • Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
  • Trekking Bag/Duffel bag
  • Large plastic bags for keeping items dry inside trek bag
  • Trekking Poles
  • Crampons/Micro Spikes (Recommended to prevent slipping on ice surface during high altitude trekking)
  • Water bottles (insulated for cold weather)
Medications and Personal Necessities
  • Basic First Aid Kit (provided by company)
  • Diamox (for Altitude Sickness)
  • Water Purification Pills
Snacks and Other Extra Items
  • Energy bars, chocolates and nuts
  • Camera (extra memory card and batteries)/ Smart phone
  • Power bank (essential for charging devices, solar powered options are great)
  • Pocket knife or multi tool
  • Few passport size photos and photocopy of passport (in case necessary)
Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek – Classical Route FAQs

The Everest Base Camp Trek via Jiri is the classical route used by the pioneering climbers, and mountaineers including Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa in 1953 AD. The trek starts from Jiri (Bhandar) and follows the same footpath until connecting at the standard route of Phakding. 
 

This trek starts from Jiri and has longer days providing time for more gradual acclimatization. You will get to notice the shift in culture, landscapes proving more authentic experience. The trek is less crowded compared to the usual Lukla route.
 

It takes around 17- 20 days to complete this trek which is 5 days extra than the usual standard route to EBC.

The maximum altitude of this trek is at 5,545 m at Kalapathhar, famous or the breathtaking sunrise view.
 

The route can be more challenging than the other standard route to Everest Base Camp Trek because:

  • Longer Trekking Duration 
  • More ups and downs before reaching Phakding
  • Higher elevation gains than Lukla Route

It is possible to do this trek in winter season but be aware the weather condition is harsh with snow covered trails. It is not recommended to do this trek in monsoon because of rain, leeches, and slippery trail.

Yes, but this Jiri route to EBC allows for better acclimatization as it starts from lower altitude than Lukla. 

You can reach to Jiri via bus/ private jeep from Kathmandu. (7 – 8 hours drive)

Yes! It must cover high-altitude trekking (above 5,000m) and emergency evacuation.

Yes, helicopter evacuations are available but require insurance or upfront payment.
 

Yes, solo trekking is allowed in this EBC trek from Jiri. But it’s riskier due to fewer trekkers on the Jiri trail.

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