Jiri, a town located in the Dolakha District of Nepal, is known as the "Switzerland of Nepal" due to its natural beauty and mountainous landscape. Located in the eastern part of Nepal, Jiri is situated at an altitude of about 1,950 meters (6,400 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by mountains, forests, and rice terraces. The area is known for its trekking routes, which offer stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest. The town of Jiri is also a popular starting point for the Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek, which is a popular alternative to the more crowded route that starts in Lukla. The town's name, "Jiri," is derived from the Tibetan word "jeiri," which means "beautiful valley." The comparison to Switzerland likely comes from the similarities in the mountainous terrain and natural beauty of both countries.
The first known foreigner to visit Jiri was the Swiss geologist Dr. Toni Hagen, who arrived there in 1950. Dr. Hagen started a trek route from Jiri to Lukla for economic empowerment. The 110 km route from Khandi Chaur to Jiri was blacktopped roughly 40 years ago as the number of tourists rose. Jiri outperformed other areas of the Dolakha district in terms of development from the 1960s to the 1990s.
Jiri is a small village on the outskirts of Nepal's capital, Kathmandu. It is a place that every tourist should visit at least once. The area is surrounded by mountains and hills and has many beautiful temples. If you are looking for some peace in your life, then this destination is perfect for you.
With the slogans Clean Jiri, Green Jiri, and Organic Jiri, Jiri is attempting to attract both internal and external tourists. Jiri's municipality has already invested funds in developing natural parks at the top of the Hills and improving the conditions of other important shrines and monasteries. In this part, we'll give you a quick tour of the top SEVEN stunning locations you should see while in Jiri Valley, one of the most beautiful places in Nepal.
Jiri has also long served as the perfect gateway to the Annapurna Circuit trek, guiding budget‑minded travelers through rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages. From Jiri, you can embark on a journey that winds past terraced fields before ascending over Thorong La Pass, all while enjoying the authentic mountain culture that makes this region so special
Jiri is a small town in the mountains of Nepal, one of the country's oldest capitals. It is also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Nepal. From its ancient temples to its picturesque scenery, this place has a lot to offer any traveler.
If you are Nepalese and have never visited Jiri before, then you should add it to your bucket list. You will not regret it!
This town has been developing rapidly in the last few years and was not known to the people of other districts before it was under the Swiss Development Assistance. It is 200 kilometers away from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, and is bordered by: Mali, Jugu, Gairimudi, Thulopatal, Sunkhani, Namdu, Dolkha Bhimsen, Priti, Chaulakharka, and Ragani. The Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple and the Dolakha Bhimsenthan Temple are also frequented by travelers visiting Jiri.
Jiri Valley is a remote and sparsely populated area in the Himalayan mountains. It is located in the eastern part of Nepal. The valley is surrounded by high mountains and has a subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters.
The valley is home to many ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Tamangs, Newars, Thakalis, and Sherpas. Jiri takes up 211.25 km of the land area and is located at elevations ranging from 1649 m to 5341 m above sea level.
The population of this municipality is 15,515, with 53.15% women and 46.03% males, according to data from the National Census of 2068. The population of the municipality is made up of people from many ethnic and religions. 4,366 Chettri, who have the highest ethical standards, are followed by 3,360 Jirel and 2,792 Sherpa (21.66% and 18%).
For those looking to stray off the beaten path, Jiri also offers easy access to the rugged traverse of the Manaslu Circuit trek, where fewer crowds and untamed landscapes await. This route takes you through hidden valleys and remote hamlets, giving you a true sense of adventure—and the chance to support local communities along the way.
Contact our expert team to customize your perfect
Jiri : Switzerland of Nepal experience: