How to Plan Your Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek in Kathmandu

Are you an adventure seeker looking for an epic trekking experience? The Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek might just be what you’re looking for. This trek takes you to the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. In this guide, we will explore all the necessary steps you need to take to plan your Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek in Kathmandu.

Overview

The Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek is a 20-day trek that starts from Jiri and ends at the Everest Base Camp. This trek is perfect for adventurous souls who are physically fit and have previous trekking experience. You’ll ascend to a maximum altitude of 5,545 meters and pass through stunning landscapes, mountain villages, and get close to the Sherpa community.

What’s Included?

• Twin-sharing hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
• Lodge/Mountain teahouse in trekking
• Airport to Hotel and Hotel to Airport in a private vehicle
• Local bus from Kathmandu to Bhandar
• Flight from Lukla-Kathmandu
• Travel and Rescue Insurance
• Nepal entry visa
• All necessary permits for the trek
• Three meals a day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m)

You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where our representative will meet you and take you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the city and preparing for the trek.

Day 2: Guided Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

On the second day, you will take a guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley, which includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Day 3: Drive to Bhandar (2190) via Jiri Bazar Duration: 7 hours

We will start our trek on the third day with a drive to Bhandar. The journey takes around 7 hours and passes through beautiful landscapes and villages.

Day 4: Trek start: Trek to Sete (2645m) Duration: 6 hours

On the fourth day, we will start our trek and hike towards Sete. The trail takes us through beautiful forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 5: Trek to Junbesi (2700m) Duration: 6 hours

We will continue our trek and head towards Junbesi on the fifth day. The trail is a bit challenging but offers breathtaking views of the mountains.

Day 6: Trek to Nunthala (2330m) Duration: 5 hours

On the sixth day, we will trek towards Nunthala. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and forests.

Day 7: Trek to Kharikhola (2040m) Duration: 5 hours

We will hike towards Kharikhola on the seventh day. The trail offers views of the beautiful Dudh Koshi river and passes through small Sherpa villages.

Day 8: Trek to Paiya (2730m) Duration: 6 hours

On the eighth day, we will hike towards Paiya. The trail is steep and challenging at times, but the views of the mountains are simply breathtaking.

Day 9: Trek to Phakding (2610m) Duration: 5 hours

We will continue our trek and head towards Phakding on the ninth day. We’ll cross suspension bridges over rivers and walk through beautiful forests on this day.

Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m) Duration: 5 hours

On the tenth day, we’ll trek towards Namche Bazaar, a bustling town in the heart of the Himalayas. The trail is steep but offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 11-12: Rest day in Namche Bazaar

We’ll spend two days in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the altitude. You can explore the town and enjoy stunning views of the mountains during these days.

Day 13: Trek to Tengboche (3860m) Duration: 5 hours

We’ll trek towards Tengboche on the thirteenth day. The trail is steep, but the views of the Ama Dablam mountain are simply awe-inspiring.

Day 14: Trek to Dingboche (4410m) Duration: 5 hours

On the fourteenth day, we’ll trek towards Dingboche. The trail passes through beautiful forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 15-16: Rest day in Dingboche

We’ll spend two days in Dingboche to acclimatize to the altitude. You can explore the town and enjoy stunning views of the mountains during these days.

Day 17: Trek to Lobuche (4910m) Duration: 5 hours

On the seventeenth day, we’ll trek towards Lobuche. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes and offers breathtaking views of the mountains.

Day 18: Trek to Gorak Shep (5140m)

We’ll hike to Gorak Shep on the eighteenth day. The trail is challenging but offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 19: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5364m) and back to Gorak Shep

On the nineteenth day, we’ll trek to the Everest Base Camp and then return to Gorak Shep. This is the highlight of the trek, as you’ll get to see the world’s highest mountain up close.

Day 20: Hike to Kala Patthar (5545m) and return to Pheriche (4210m) Duration: 7 hours

We’ll hike to Kala Patthar on the final day of the trek, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. We’ll then head back to Pheriche, where we’ll stay overnight.

Day 21: Trek to Namche (3440m) Duration: 8 hours

We’ll trek back to Namche on the twenty-first day, passing through beautiful landscapes and villages.

Day 22: Trek to Lukla (2860m) Duration: 7 hours

The final day of the trek will take us back to Lukla. We’ll celebrate our successful trek and spend the night in Lukla.

Day 23: Departure from Lukla to Kathmandu

We’ll take a flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu on the twenty-third day. Our representative will then take you to your hotel, where you can rest and relax.

Meeting and Pickup

The trek will start and end at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

What to expect

During the trek, you can expect to walk for around 5-6 hours a day. The trail is challenging at times but offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll stay in mountain teahouses and lodges during the trek and all your meals will be provided.

Booking the Tour

To book the Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek, visit this link and follow the instructions provided. This tour is offered by a third-party company, and we do not have control over booking or pricing.

Conclusion

The Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Planning this trek might seem overwhelming at first, but following the steps outlined in this guide will make the process much easier. Make sure you’re physically fit and prepare for the altitude before embarking on this adventure of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets to the serene temples, Kathmandu offers something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Kathmandu, you might have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Kathmandu.

1. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November and February to April. These months offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making it easier to explore the city and its surroundings. The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until September, which can make it difficult to travel around the city due to heavy rains and disrupted transport. The winter months from December to January can be cold, especially in the evenings and early mornings.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Yes, you do need a visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can apply for a visa at your nearest Nepali embassy or consulate. Visas are valid for up to 90 days and can be extended if necessary.

3. What are the transportation options in Kathmandu?

There are several transportation options in Kathmandu, including taxis, buses, and motorbikes. Taxis are the most convenient and comfortable option but can be expensive. Buses are the cheapest option but can be crowded and slow. Motorbikes are a popular option for tourists who want to explore the city on their own, but it can be dangerous if you are not familiar with the roads.

4. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has several must-visit tourist attractions, including:

a. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. It is also known as the Monkey Temple due to the large number of monkeys that live there.

b. Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in Nepal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

c. Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu sites in the world and is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of devotees every year.

d. Durbar Square

Durbar Square is a complex of palaces, temples, and courtyards that was once the royal palace of the Nepali kingdom. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular destination for tourists.

5. What is the local currency in Nepal?

The local currency in Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). You can exchange foreign currency at banks and exchange counters in Kathmandu. Credit and debit cards are also accepted at some shops and restaurants in the city.

6. What is the food like in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu offers a wide range of cuisine options, including Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, and Western. Some of the must-try dishes in Kathmandu include momos (dumplings), dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), and chow mein (stir-fried noodles).

7. Is it safe to travel to Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any other city, it is important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your valuables in a safe place.

8. What is the language spoken in Kathmandu?

The official language of Nepal is Nepali, but English is widely spoken in Kathmandu, especially in tourist areas.

9. What should I wear in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a conservative culture, and it is important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing and opt for loose, comfortable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

10. What are some tips for haggling in Kathmandu?

Haggling is a common practice in Kathmandu, especially in markets and bazaars. Here are some tips for haggling:

• Start with a lower price than what the vendor is asking for.
• Be polite but firm in your negotiations.
• Don’t be afraid to walk away if you can’t agree on a price.
• Be aware of the fair price for the item you want to buy.

In conclusion, Kathmandu is a beautiful city with a rich culture and history. By knowing the answers to some of these frequently asked questions, you can better plan your trip and enjoy all that Kathmandu has to offer.

How to spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kathmandu

The city of Kathmandu, located in Nepal, is a popular destination for those who enjoy exploring different cultures and experiencing adventure. With numerous historic sites, bustling streets, and stunning scenery, there’s always something to do in this vibrant city. If you’re planning a trip to Kathmandu, here are some tips on how to get the most out of your visit.

1. Explore the Historic Sites

Kathmandu is home to many historic sites, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The most iconic of these is the Swayambhunath stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. This ancient Buddhist temple is located on a hilltop and offers sweeping views of the city. Other notable historic sites include the Pashupatinath Temple, which is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, and the Boudhanath stupa, which is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.

2. Discover the Local Cuisine

Nepali cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique spices. While in Kathmandu, be sure to try some of the traditional dishes, such as momos (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), dal bhat (a lentil soup served with rice and vegetables), and chow mein (stir-fried noodles). For an authentic dining experience, visit a local food market or street vendor.

3. Trek to the Surrounding Mountains

Kathmandu is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, making it an ideal base for trekking enthusiasts. There are treks available for all ability levels, from short hikes to multi-day expeditions. Popular trekking routes include the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and the Langtang Valley Trek.

4. Take a Yoga Class

Kathmandu is a hub for yoga enthusiasts, with many yoga studios located throughout the city. Taking a yoga class is a great way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Many studios offer classes for beginners, as well as more advanced practitioners.

5. Shop for Souvenirs

Kathmandu is famous for its handicrafts and textiles, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs. Some of the best items to look for include traditional hand-woven carpets, pottery, jewelry, and thangkas (Buddhist paintings on silk or cotton). Be sure to visit the local markets, such as the Asan Bazaar and the Thamel Market, to find unique items at a bargain price.

6. Experience the Nightlife

Kathmandu has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs staying open late into the night. Some of the best areas for nightlife include Thamel, Jhochhen, and Patan. Many of the bars and clubs feature live music and DJs, making it a great place to unwind and meet locals or other travelers.

7. Volunteer with a Local Organization

Volunteering with a local organization is a great way to give back to the community while also experiencing Nepali culture firsthand. There are many organizations in Kathmandu that offer volunteer opportunities, such as teaching English or working on community development projects.

Closing Thoughts

Kathmandu is a city that offers something for everyone, from historic sites to outdoor adventures to exciting nightlife. By following these tips, you can make the most out of your time in Kathmandu and create memories that will last a lifetime. Just remember to take the time to soak in the local culture and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.