Trekking · Jiri
Jiri Trek Permits and Logistics
Permits, transport, guides and supplies for the classic Jiri-to-Everest walk-in, from roadhead to the Khumbu.
Planning the Jiri-to-Everest walk-in comes down to three things: permits, transport and supplies. The route is long and remote, with no ATMs and only basic trailside shops, so it pays to get the paperwork and logistics right before you leave Kathmandu. This guide covers what you need to carry, where to buy permits, and how to keep the journey running smoothly from the roadhead to the high Khumbu.
Permits you need
The walk-in passes through two permit zones. The lower Jiri section falls under local rural municipalities in Dolakha and Solu, where a local-area permit or entry fee may be collected at checkpoints such as Shivalaya. As you approach the Khumbu you need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit and Sagarmatha National Park entry. Park entry can be bought in Kathmandu or at the Monjo gate; the Khumbu permit is issued at Lukla or Monjo. Carry passport copies and cash, as fees are paid in Nepali rupees on the trail.
Guides and porters
Nepal now generally requires trekkers to use a licensed guide for most routes, and the long, demanding Jiri walk-in is exactly the kind of trip where one earns their keep — handling permits, navigation, lodge bookings and emergencies. A porter is also worth considering: the daily ascents and descents are relentless, and walking light makes the foothill stages far more enjoyable. The general Nepal trekking guide covers current rules.
Getting to the trailhead
There are no flights to Jiri, so access is overland — roughly seven to nine hours by bus or jeep from Kathmandu via Charikot, with onward transport to the Shivalaya roadhead. The details are in how to get to Jiri and the national getting around Nepal guide. Many trekkers walk in from Jiri and fly out from Lukla, so factor a Lukla flight (and buffer days for delays) into your plans.
Money, supplies and lodges
Carry enough cash for the whole trek — permits, lodges and meals — as there are no reliable ATMs on the route. Lodges at every stage are simple tea houses with shared rooms and home-cooked dal bhat; prices rise with altitude and remoteness. Stock up on essentials, snacks and any specialist gear in Kathmandu or Jiri Bazaar before the trail.
Tie it together
Set your dates with the best time for the Jiri trek, follow the Jiri to Lukla itinerary day by day, and read the classic Jiri-to-Everest route collection for the full journey.
Good to know
- Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit plus Sagarmatha National Park entry, with a lower-section local fee.
- Cash: No ATMs on the trail — bring rupees for the whole trek.
- Guide: A licensed guide is generally required and strongly recommended on this remote route.
Frequently asked questions
What permits do you need for the Jiri to Everest trek?+
For the Khumbu you need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit and Sagarmatha National Park entry. The lower Jiri section falls under local rural municipalities, where a local-area permit or entry fee may apply. Carry passport copies and cash for checkpoints.
Where do you buy the permits?+
Sagarmatha National Park entry can be bought in Kathmandu or at the Monjo park gate, and the Khumbu rural municipality permit is issued at Lukla or Monjo. Lower-section fees are paid at trail checkpoints such as Shivalaya, so keep cash and passport copies handy.
Do you need a guide for the Jiri trek?+
Nepal now generally requires trekkers to use a licensed guide for most routes, and the long, remote Jiri walk-in is well suited to having one. A guide handles permits, navigation and lodges, and a porter eases the heavy daily ascents and descents.
Are there ATMs or shops on the Jiri route?+
No reliable ATMs exist on the trail, so carry enough cash for the whole trek, including permits, lodges and meals. Basic supplies are sold in trailside villages, but prices rise with altitude and remoteness, so stock up in Kathmandu or Jiri.
