Trip Duration
12 DaysDifficulty
EasyMax. Altitude
4070mActivities
Meals
Accommodation
A Journey Through History, Culture, and Spectacular Scenery
Jiri Valley, often compared to the Swiss countryside, lies at an altitude of 1,905 meters (6,250 feet), 188 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu. Historically significant as the “Gateway to Everest,” Jiri was the starting point for all early Everest expeditions, including the legendary 1953 ascent by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary. Adventurous trekkers can still walk the original route from Jiri to Everest Base Camp, bypassing the flight to Lukla and tracing the footsteps of mountaineering pioneers.
The trek begins in Jiri, winding through picturesque Sherpa and Jirel villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron and magnolia forests. Highlights include the Cherdung cheese factory and the ascent to Pikey Peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and beyond. The region also provides a fascinating cultural experience, with the unique Jirel community blending Hinduism and shamanistic traditions.
In 2015 and 2016, our team managed a post-earthquake recovery project in the Jiri region, supporting local tourism workers and businesses to rebuild and thrive. Today, the area stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit, making it an enriching destination for trekkers seeking both adventure and meaningful connections.