Everest Base Camp Trekking VIA Jiri

Trip Duration: 28 Days Trip starts From: Jiri Ending: Lukla Trip Highlights: With this extended trek to Everest Basecamp (EBC) you will enjoy real Nepalese culture, the unique culture of the Sherpa people, beautiful ancient monasteries, amazing views of Mt. Everest, Khumbu icefall and many fantastic views of the Himalayan ranges. It ends with a scenic mountain flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.  This fascinating trek offers awonderful opportunity to climb Kala Pathar (5,545m) which overlooks the basecamp for the Everest climbers.  From there you’ll have superb views of the highest mountains including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu etc.  This is a highly praised trekking route to the Everest region. You will be following in the footsteps of the same route taken in 1952 by two Sir Edmund Hillary and Mr. Tenzing Sherpa on their way to the summit of Mt. Everest. The trek starts with a seven hour scenic drive to Jiri.  It is a spectacular route via the Solukhumbu area, through different villages inhabited by Sherpas and other ethnic cultures. It offers an ample chance to explore the beautiful forests, farming areas and several monasteries located in the high altitude on the way to Lukla. Once one has reached Lukla we climb on to Namche, the main trading village of the Khumbu area.

Day 1st: Kathmandu Arrival (1300 m/4264 ft) Once you arrive at Kathmandu airport (TIA) you will complete your custom clearance (i.e. Visa, travel documents etc) and pick up your luggage.  Upon exiting the airport you will be welcomed by a representative of All Trekkers Team.  Look for someone holding an All Trekkers Team display card at the arrival gate.  You will be taken to your hotel and, after checking in you are free to rest, wander around the city or visit our office. In the evening we will organize a "Welcome Dinner" at a traditional Nepalese restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program and a fine meal.  

Day 2nd: Kathmandu (1300 m/4264 ft): Sightseeing and Preparation for Trekking

Today, after breakfast, we will have a tour to several historical and religious attractions in Kathmandu valley. Some stops will be World Heritage Sites; including the historical Durbar Square (i.e.; Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan), Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath), one of the largest Stupas in the world, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath and the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambunath).  In the afternoon, we will have a detailed discussion l about our Trek.  At this meeting you can ask any questions that come up.  You will also have the oppurtunity to meet the trek leader and other participants of the trek.

Day 3: Drive Kathmandu to Jiri (187 km)

We have an amazing drive of 7- 8 hours by car, van, jeep or bus. The road is 110km further from Kathmandu. We stay at guesthouse for the night.

Day 4: Trek from Jiri to Shivalaya.

We begin the walk with a climb to the ridge top at 2370m. Then the trail drops down to Shivalaya at 1800m.

Day 5:

After Shivalaya, we make another climb to Sangbadanda at 2150m, Kosaribas at 2500m, then to Bhanjyang, a pass at Bhandar at 2200m. We can possibly take a diversion between Sangba Danda and Bhandar to visit Thodung at 3090m where there is a wonderful local cheese factory.

Day 6: Trek to Sete

Today the trail drops down to the Likhu Khloa and crosses the river at 1580m. It then continues on to Kenja.  After Kenja we have a long climb to Lamjura pass. The first part of the climb is quite steep, and then it traverses to Sete, an abandoned Gompa at 2575m. We continue through the villages inhabited by Sherpa’s and have both Nepali and Sherpa names. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 7: Sete to Junbesi

The day begins with a long but steady climb to the Lamjura pass at 3530m. In the winter you are rewarded with frost and snow along the trail.  If it’s in the spring you will see flowering rhododendrons. The pass is the highest point between Jiri and Namche Bazaar.  There you will enjoy a delicious lunch. From the here you descend to Tragdobuk at 2860m, then to the pretty Sherpa village of Junbesi at 2675m. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 8: Junbensi  to Nuntala

Today we climb to a ridge at 2980m. From here Everest slowly begins to appear in front of you.  Then on to Salung at 2650m. From Junbesi the trail leads to the hospital and airstrip at Phaplu and the district headquarters and bazaar at Salleri. Leaving Salung, we descend to the Ringmo Khola at 2550m. There we see gardens of apples and other fruit.  The Apple House restaurant offers apple juice, pie and rakshi (local alcohol made from rice or millet). The trail from here to Namche Bazaar is new and was built in the 1980’s and avoid many of the steep descents and ascents of the old route. We make a short climb from Ringmo Khola that takes us to the 3071m Trakshindo pass, then the trail drops down past the monastery of the same name, on to Nuntala at 2320m. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 9: Trek from Nuntala to Buspa

Leaving Nunthala, the trail continues descending to the Dudh Koshi (Milk River) where the trail then ascends through several Sherpa villages, terraced fields and forests to Khari Khola. We have an additional trip on this day up to Buspa with its many hotels and shops.  It is a 20 minute walk from our main route.  Overnight at guesthouse.  

Day 10: Trek from Buspa to Cheplung

We start today with a climb towards Paiyan through Sherpa villages and a forest inhabited by monkeys.  We pass through a narrow canyon before arriving at Paiyan. Overnight atguesthouse.

Day11: TrektoPhakding

Today we continue a climb through Paiyan to a ridge at 2800 meters, before a gradual ascent to the final ridge.  From there we descend to Surke, the turn off to Lukla by airstrip. Then the trial goes down,following the climb through Mushe and then Chaurikharka Dhunge. Our trek goes through the village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. Toget used to the height and for acclimatization, we have a short hike today. However, if you are interested, we can take a side trip to an old monastery. Overnight in Phakding.

Day 12: Phakding -Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,283 ft) -5-6 hrs

The beginning of todays walk is pleasant with few short uphill and downhillsand a few crossings of the Dudh Koshi River.  We will have opportunities to view Mt. Thamserku (6,608m/21,675ft) from the village called Benkar. We cross belly bridges over Dudh Kosi River and through the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo.  Monjois where our trekking permits are to be checked in order to keep record of trekkers and local trekking staff. After this we descend to Jorsale, the last village before Namche Bazaar. After half an hours we reach the Hillary Suspension Bridge. After the bridge there is a long climb up to Namche Bazzar.  We will see the white caps of of Kwangde Peak and it’s sister peak, Kusum Kangaru.  We will also have the opportunity to view Tawache, Lhotse, Mt. Everest and many other beautiful mountains.  We will stop at the Chautara to admire these views. Finally, we reach the modern village of Namche Bazzar, the main gateway of Khumbu region. We overnight in Namche Bazzar.  

Day 13: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,283 ft): Acclimatization Day

This will be our first acclimatization day of this trek. Our health and safety requires us to be ever aware for signs of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS).We will spend the day exploring Namche Bazaar and/or taking a hike to Thame or visiting Khunde. Namche Bazzar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and it has all of the modern conveniences.  There are government offices, ATMs, internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery and a colorful market. Every Friday evening and Saturday the village hosts an open air market.  We will try to trek a few hundred vertical feet during the day. One rule that we follow for proper acclimatization is, “hike high, sleep low”. The guides will take the team to the Tourist Visiting Center of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of things relating to the first Everest climbers, Sherpa culture and details about the various plants and animals of the Everest region. We also take an interesting side trip up to Khumjung and also climb up to the airstrip at Syangboche. Just above the airstrip is the Everest View Hotel, a Japanese scheme to build a deluxe hotel with great views of the highest mountains on Earth. The Khumjung valley is surrounded by the snowy peaks of Kongde and Thamserku and the scared peak Khumbila.  We will also visit a well known monastery that houses a yeti scalp and the Hillary School. After having lunch and spending some time in Khumjung, we walk back down to Namche Bazzar.  

Day 14: Namche Bazaar - Dole-(4,110 m/ 13,152 ft): 5-6 hrs

We ascend steadily out from Namche Bazzar up to Kyangjuma Village from where we will enjoy outstanding views of Thamserku, Ama Dablam and Katenga.  The most memorable ascent of the day will be to pass the Mong La.Mong La is a very charming and challenging part of Mt. Khumbila. A historical chorten stares from the centre of the settlement of Mong La. We stop at the top of Mong La to view the surrounding snow-capped mountains and the valleys below.  This is where we will enjoy our lunch. A most remarkable feature of todays trail is the abundance of natural vegetation including wildflowers and rhododendrons. Spotting the wild animals like pheasants, mountain goats, and the elusive musk deer while on the way is not unusual. We pass by forests, water falls and bridges and reach Dole, a small village with few teahouses. We spend the night in Dole.  

Day 15: Dole - Machherma-(4,470 m/ 14,663 ft): 4-5 hrs

First, we have a steady climb up through a scenic route above Dole. Then the trail leads up via Lhabarma at 4220m to Luza at 4360m. The path is ascending in most places as we pass by thorny bushes up to Lhabarma. We willhave good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku. The trail takes the Everest trekkers through many summer habitations until reaching Luza (4360 m).As leave Luza we ascend away from the Dudh Koshi. Walking along with the hill side up from the roaring Dudkoshi River we pass through some sandy spursbefore reaching todays destination, Machherma. Machherma is the last main stopping point on the way up to Gokyo. The beautiful stream flowing down from the Kyajo Ri and Phari Lapche mountains flows through the middle of this village before draining into the Dudh Koshi.  This is also the place where Khumbu people first recorded a yeti sightingin 1974.  Here we visit the Himalayan Rescue Hospital for a lecture regarding altitude sickness. The topics include precautions and primary treatments.  Very worthwhileknowledge for first time visiters high altitude regions. The spend the night in Machherma.  

Day 16: Machharmo - Gokyo (4800 m/15,744 ft): 3-4 hrs

Today can catch amazing views down into the valley and up to Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and northern part to the Cho-Oyu. Beyond, the valley widens and the trail passes through a chorten and over Pangka (4480 m. Phangka is the palace where 40 people where killed by an avalanche in 1995. We descend to the river bank then begin to climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozamba Glacier.  It is a steep climb on the moraine. After crossing an iron bridge the trial levels out and follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo (4690m). There we have a chance to observe the Lama footprints on a stone. Towards the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho we will see the breath taking blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. A little bit further we reach the third lake, linked by a surging stream with the second lake. Gokyo village is located on the third lake.  Cho-Oyu Mountain is a backdrop to this wonderful village. After lunch, we explore around the third Lake, Dudh Pokhari. We spend the night in our cozy bedrooms in a teahouse.  

Day 17: Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization Day

Today is another rest day for acclimatization.  If the weather is good, we take the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri today instead of tomorrow.  Gokyo Ri is one of the best viewpoints of Everest Region. Gokyo is not only popular for its grand view but also for Gokyo Peak and the six lakes. We will try not to miss a visit to the the fourth lake (Thonak Tsho), about 3 km north of Gokyo.  If time and energy allow we can also visit the fifth lake (Ngozuma Tsho). The more we climb above the shore of the lakes the better the views of Cho-Oyu, Nuptse, Everest,Gyachung Kang, Lhotse and Makalu. The Cho Oyu Base Camp is beyond the fifth Lake.  The scenery around Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang seems like it’s only steps away. The northern part of the fifth lake provides fabulous views of Cho-Oyu Basecamp and the biggest glacier of the world, the Ngazumpa glacier. We will try to reach the sixth lake if our interest and time permits.We spend the second night at Gokyo.  

Day 18: Hike - Gokyo Ri (5,330 m/17,483 ft) - Thaknak (4750 m/15,580 ft): 5-6 hrs

If we did not climb Gokyo Ri yesterday climb it today.The climb to Gokyo Ri is strenuous as it is quite steep and takes 3 to 4 hours to reach the top. We will be surrounded by panorama of mountains as we climb.  These mountains include Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, K 43, Cholatse, Taboche, Kangtega, Pumori, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Changtse, and Everest.   The view of the sunrays streaming over the peaks is incredible.Thus, our visit to Gokyo Ri, will be an unforgettable memory.  After our visit climb back down to Gokyo and have lunch.  After lunch we trek to Thaknak for a nights stay near the second lake and the Ngozumba Glacier.  

Day 19: Thaknak - Cho-la Pass (5367 m/17,604 ft) - Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 7-8 hrs

Cho La Pass is another highlight of this trip and it will be another tough day.  The pass itself is not difficult but it is steep and full of glacial loose rock on the descent down the eastern side. We need to be careful as the trail is vertical and the icey rocks make it slippery.  The trek up to Cho La is not too difficult as we climb steadily from Phedi. As we gain height, the views become increasingly more beautiful. We trek along the side of a frozen lake while we come to the top of the pass covered with prayer flags.  We’ll see views of Kyajo Ri, Tengkangpoche, Numbur, Kangchung, etc. The pyramidal Ama Dablam presides over a range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soars on the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. The views will help us to forget how tired today has made us. AS we continue we will need to pass through some crevasses before we reach Dzongla.  Dzongla is another beautiful place with a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche peak and the Pheriche village far below. Depending upon our condition we might stay overnight at Dzongla or else we can continue on to Lobuche.  Staying Lobuche will ease our next day's Everest Basecamp ascent (plus lodges are better in Lobuche than at Dzongla). If we decide to continue, we climb down from Dzongla, cross a bridge and hike on a grassy trail. Lobuche Peak will eventually come into view. Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku and Taboche will alsoloom prominently. Following the curve of the wide river bed and passing a number of high hills we eventually reach Lobuche for the night stay.  

Day 20: Lobuche- Everest Base Camp (5364 m/17,594 ft)-Gorak Shep (5170 m/16,961ft): 6-7 hrs

We hike the same path take for the Everest Basecamp passing through Gorak Shep. Continuing straight ahead the path from here can be misleading because every year the trail changes due to the movements of the glacier. The walk is quite strenuous due to the thin air of the high altitude. The pass through rocky dunes, moraine and streams until we reach the basecamp. As we reach Everest Basecamp we cannot help appreciating the Everest climbers, those who take the dangerous route through the Khumbu Icefall. Everest Basecamp is lively during the high expedition season. Mountaineer's tents stand out in bright colors against all of the dull gray surroundings. Nuptse, Khumbuste, Pumori are the mountains we can view from basecamp but Everest itself is not visible from here since the camp is located right at the foot of the great mountain.  We continue on and find ourselves back at Gorak Shep for a good night's rest. Even then the sunset view over Kala Patthar is breath taking. The sunrays at sunset strike the snow capped mountains and light up the peaks. If we have the energy we can hike up to Kala Patthar for the amazing sunset view instead of waiting until the next day. Spend the night in Gorak Shep.  

Day 21: Gorak Shep - Kala Patthar (5545 m/18,192 ft) - Pheriche (4280 m/14,070 ft): 7-8 hrs

We start early in the morning to catch the magic of the sunrise over the Himalayas from Kala Patthar. We look forward to viewing the first light of day shining onto the Mount Everest!Our early morning start means we have to be prepared for the dark and the cold temperature (-10 to -14 C). The cold is made worse by the wind chill that is common early in the morning.  But once we arrive at the top we are rewarded with sight of many familiar peaks. Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself emerging between the west shoulder and Nuptse. While we ascend Kala Patthar we will have many outstanding viewpoints.  After several hours of walking we reach the summit of Kala Pattharwith it’s cairns and prayer flags.  We will sit on the Kala Patthar rocks and gaze at the unbelievable Himalayan Panorama, allowing our eys to wander from one mighty massif to another. Don’t be stingy with your camera bacause the pictures you take from here will be valuable lifelong memories.  Afer we’ve satisfied ourselves we head back to Gorak Shep. In Gorak Shep we have breakfast before beginning our gradual descent down to Pheriche where we will enjoy a good nights rest.  

Day 22: Pheriche-Pangboche-Tengboche-Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,280 ft): 5-6 hrs

Today will be much easier since we are walking down into the lower altitudes. Following the same route back to the terminal moraines at Dughla and the wide valley of Khumbu Khola, we pass through the beautiful Sherpa villages of Pheriche, Orsho, and Shomare before arriving in Pangboche.  If we have the energy we can take a side trip to see the Gompa in Upper Pangboche. From Pangboche we step down to the Imja Khola and up through the forest to DebucheDingboche (or if interested, we might visit nuns at the Debuche monastery). If we are trekking during the full moon of November or December, we might get and opportunity to witness the Mani Rimdu festival in the monastery at Tengboche. We will stop for lunch at Tengboche before continuing through the hillside forests full of rhododendrons. If it's spring we will be able to enjoy the surrounding pink and red rhododendron flowers. When we cross the prayer flag festooned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River our trail begins to follows the Dudh Koshi, descending rapidly through the pine forests. The path eventually reaches Sansa. We keep a sharp eye out for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc. along this mountain trail. After some hours we reach the army camp at Namche Bazaar. Here the travelers want to take a long last look back to Lhotse, the tip of Everest and Tengboche. After reaching the lodge, you can enjoy a steamy hot shower and comfortable sleep in a deluxe room in Namche Bazaar. The night in Namche Bazaar.  

Day 23: Namche Bazaar-Lukla: 6-8 hrs

Today we take a steep trail down and we need to walk carefully. After crossing another suspension bridges over the same Dudh Koshi and its tributaries the trail becomes more natural. Also, today we should begin to feel warmer.We are traveling back along the same route but we will enjoy completely different perspectives, views and feelings. You have the final oppurtunity to take pictures of the open plains, rhododendron and pine forests and the distant snow covered peaksof the Himalayas. We’ll walk through the Sherpa villages seeing the impressive Buddhist structures, mani walls and prayer flags. Once we arrive in Lukla you can stretch those sore legs and recall the fantastic experiences of the last couple of weeks. We will spend our last night in Himalayas in Lukla with a very happy mood and a smile on our face. Overnight in Lukla.  

Day 24: Fly back to Kathmandu

Flights to Kathmandu are generally scheduled for the morning because of the possibility of wind and the weather creating problems for the aircraft. We fly back to Kathmandu enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery from 3000 meters. As our flight drops into the Kathmandu Valley you can see the dusty city spreading our before you.  Back in Kathmandu we go directly to your hotel.  You are free to rest or to spend your time shopping for gifts to take back home for friends and relatives.  The shops in Thamel are full of colorful Nepalese goods. Our guides can assist or you can wander around by yourself.  We can also arrange a guided tour if you want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu.  In the evening we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner together to mark your successful completion of theEverest Basecamp/Gokyo Lake Trek! Overnight in Kathmandu.  

Finally

Today we say good-bye as your journey in the Himalayas comes to an end. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight by a representative from All Trekkers Team will take you to the airport. Wishing a speedy return for another adventure in to this wonderful land of Nepal. If you wish and if you have additional days, you can stay in Kathmandu or we can arrange some short hikes around Kathmandu valley.  There are many places of interest. Lumbini (birth-place of Lord Gautam Buddha), Chitawan (for wildlife observation experience of the Tharu culture), Pokhara (lush, romantic city on the shore of Nepals great lakes), etc. Those who come to visit Nepal and don't go to Pokhara, it said that their visit to Nepal remains incomplete.