Trekking Beyond Everest Base Camp: What’s Next After EBC?

Trekking Beyond Everest Base Camp (EBC) is the ultimate adventure for those who have conquered EBC and crave more. Standing at the base of the world’s highest peak and soaking in the unmatched beauty of the Khumbu region is an unforgettable achievement. But Nepal’s Everest region offers thrilling trekking routes, remote trails, and breathtaking landscapes beyond EBC— the best adventure experience.
Already conquered EBC? Get ready for your next challenge! These offbeat treks beyond Everest Base Camp will take you deep into the heart of the Himalayas, test your limits, and reward you with unparalleled Himalayan experiences.

1. Three Passes Trek: A Challenging EBC Alternative

The Three Passes Trek is the ultimate adventure for trekkers seeking an extreme high-altitude challenge experience. This legendary circuit passes through three high Himalayan passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—offering unparalleled views and an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Highlights of Three Passes Trek

• Cross three challenging mountain passes while enjoying breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, and the stunning Mt. Ama Dablam, the world's most beautiful mountain.
• Immerse in Sherpa culture by walking through remote mountain villages, visiting ancient Buddhist monasteries, and experiencing the warmth of Sherpa’s hospitality.
• Experience both Everest base camp and Gokyo Lakes in a single trek.

Trek Difficulty Level 

At altitudes above 5,000 m, this trek is one of Nepal's most challenging. It is recommended for experienced trekkers with past high-altitude trekking experience and seasoned adventurers seeking the ultimate challenge.

 This trek offers an incredible combination of mountain adventure, cultural immersion, and Himalayan beauty, making it a once-in-a-lifetime challenging experience.

2. Gokyo-Ri EBC Trek: A Journey to the Turquoise Jewels of the Himalayas

The Gokyo-Ri EBC Trek is an alternative, unforgettable route to the legendary Everest Base Camp, showcasing the best of the entire Everest region. This trail leads to the mesmerizing Gokyo Lakes, the highest freshwater lake system in the world; Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region of Nepal; and a series of six stunning high-altitude lakes nestled among towering Himalayan peaks.

Highlights of Gokyo-Ri EBC Trek

•  Witness the untouched beauty of a series of six beautiful high-altitude lakes that are extremely beautiful
•  The Gokyo-Ri EBC trek offers a quieter, more peaceful experience compared to the regular EBC trail.
• Explore Buddhist monasteries, and charming Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Machuwa, and Gokyo Valley, and cross high suspension bridges along the way.
• Explore the immense Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal.

Trek Difficulty level

The EBC-Gokyo Ri route is more difficult than the regular Everest trek as this route offers a climb to above 17000 ft thrice on the EBC-Gokyo Ri trail: the Gokyo Ri 17575 ft, Chola Pass 17500 ft, and then Kala Patthar 18190 ft.

If you crave adventure beyond the usual routes, the Gokyo-Ri EBC Trek is your perfect escape. Less crowded, raw Himalayan beauty, stunning landscapes, and a deeper cultural experience make this a bucket-list journey for true explorers.

3. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek: A Hidden Himalayan Gem

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a thrilling adventure to the base of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), the third-highest mountain in the world. Located in eastern Nepal, this trek offers a peaceful yet challenging experience away from the crowds.

Highlights of Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

• Witness breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Makalu, and other Himalayan giants.
• Visit the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, home to red pandas, snow leopards, and Himalayan black bears.
•  Explore Limbu, Rai, Sherpa, and Tibetan villages, experiencing their unique traditions and warm hospitality.
• Pass through lush forests, rolling hills, and high mountain passes, revealing breathtaking landscapes along the trail.
•   Dual Base Camp Experience—the North (Pangpema, 5,143 m) and South Base Camp (Oktang, 4,580 m) at high altitudes above 5,000 m.

Essentials and Challenges

• It requires a Kangchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
• Demands physically challenging long treks and requires proper acclimatization,

If you seek a raw, adventurous, and immersive experience and a less commercialized Himalayan experience, the Kangchenjunga trek is the perfect choice.

4. Mardi Himal Base Camp: Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region

The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the stunning Annapurna region of Nepal to the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). This off-the-beaten-path adventure offers stunning panoramas of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, rich cultural experiences, and a spirit of exploration.

5. Makalu Base Camp Trek: A Remote and Wild Adventure

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a hidden trekking adventure to the base of Makalu (8,485 m). This trek leads into the heart of the Makalu Barun National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, offering a challenging and rewarding experience.

Highlights of Makalu Base Camp Trek

• Witness the stunning landscapes of Arun Valley and Makalu Barun National Park.
• Stand at the base of Makalu (8,485 m), the world’s fifth-highest mountain.
• Stunning panoramas view of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Hiunchul

Difficulty Level:

This trek is challenging due to the high altitude, but it is suited for experienced trekkers.

This remote and wild adventure is perfect for adventurers seeking solitude, raw wilderness, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

Ready for the Next Big Adventure Beyond Everest Base Camp? 

Reaching Everest Base Camp is just the beginning—why stop there? Push your limits and explore the Himalayas beyond the ordinary! Cross high-altitude passes, conquer iconic peaks, and uncover hidden valleys. Challenge yourself with the Three Passes Trek and witness the beauty of the Gokyo Lakes Trek, or take on the ultimate mountaineering challenge with Island Peak , Mera Peak, and Lobuche East Peak Climbing with Everest Base Camp.

Looking for something different? Discover the mystical landscapes of the Upper Mustang and the breathtaking sunrise views of Poon Hill, or the remote beauty of Langtang Valley. Vajra Adventure is here to guide you every step of the way. Take Your Adventure to New Heights!

FAQ: Trekking Beyond Everest Base Camp

1. What to do after Everest Base Camp?

Several stunning EBC trekking alternatives go beyond the traditional Everest Base Camp route. Some of the most popular options  include:

• Annapurna Circuit Trek (Diverse landscapes, Thorong La Pass)
• Manaslu Circuit Trek (Less crowded, remote, cultural)
• Gokyo Lakes and Renjo La Pass Trek (Stunning turquoise lakes, quieter alternative to EBC)
• Three Passes Trek (Ultimate challenge in the Everest region)
• Upper Mustang Trek.

2. Is the Three Passes Trek more difficult than EBC?

Yes, the Three Passes Trek is more challenging compared to the classic Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek. This route includes three high-altitude passes,  making it demanding and requiring proper acclimatization.

3. What permits are required for treks beyond Everest Base Camp?

For most trekking in Nepal routes beyond EBC, you’ll need:

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
• Kangchenjunga Conservation Area Permit
• Climbing Permit for Island Peak, Mega Peak, and other mountaineering peaks.

Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Monjo at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park.

4. What are the remote treks after EBC?

Some of the remote treks beyond Everest Base Camp include: 

• Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek (Far east Nepal, untouched wilderness)
• Upper Dolpo Trek (Tibetan culture, Phoksundo Lake, extremely remote)
• Makalu Base Camp Trek (One of Nepal’s most challenging and least explored)

5. Can I combine EBC with another trek?

• Yes! EBC and Gokyo Lakes through Cho La Pass is a fantastic option.
• For extreme adventure, combine EBC with the Three Passes Trek.

6. What is a shorter trek to do after EBC?

If you’re looking for a short and rewarding trek after completing Everest Base Camp (EBC), consider these:

• Pikey Peak Trek (Best panoramic Everest view)
• Mardi Himal Trek (Off-the-beaten-path near Annapurna)
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (Ideal for stunning sunrise views)

7. Is it possible to climb a peak after reaching the EBC trek?

Yes, it’s possible! After reaching Everest Base Camp, you can take on several mountaineering peaks:

• Island Peak (6,189m): A more technical climb, often tackled after EBC.
• Mera Peak (6,476m): higher than Island Peak but technically easier.
• Lobuche East Peak (6,119m): requires basic climbing skills, making it a great option for beginners.

8. Do I need a guide for trekking in Nepal?

• Some treks can be done solo with proper preparation, but challenging routes like the Three Passes Trek, Island Peak, and Rolwaling Valley require a guide for safety. 
• Since April 2023, NTB and TAAN have mandated a licensed guide for restricted areas.

9. Is the Langtang Valley Trek worth it after EBC?

Yes! Langtang Valley Trek is a perfect choice after Everest Base Camp, offering breathtaking Himalayan views, a deep dive into Tamang culture, and a less challenging trekking experience.

10. How long should I rest before the next trek after EBC?

• If trekking at a similar altitude, then rest 1 to 2 weeks before another high-altitude trek.
• If doing a lower-altitude trek, then a few days to a week of rest is usually enough.