What trek to do after Everest Base Camp?

First of all, congratulations! You’ve stood at the foot of the world’s highest mountain. Reaching Everest Base Camp wasn't the end of your journey; it was your initiation. It proved you have the heart, the grit, and the passion to explore the world's most magnificent mountain range. The trails you walked have unlocked a new level of adventure that is now within your grasp. But now, as the glow of accomplishment settles, a question naturally surfaces: What’s next?

If you’ve fallen in love with the Khumbu region’s blend of soaring peaks, Sherpa culture, and the rhythm of high-altitude trekking, or if you’re craving an even greater challenge, you’re in the right place. This is your definitive guide to the best treks and climbs to take on after Everest Base Camp, whether you want to explore quieter trails, push your physical limits, or stand atop your very first Himalayan summit.

Where to Trek in the Khumbu After Completing EBC?

This section is for the trekkers who were captivated by the dramatic scenery and resilient Sherpa culture of the Everest region. You've walked the main path, but now it's time to explore the breathtaking side valleys that few others get to see. These treks offer an escape from the main EBC trail crowds, rewarding you with even more spectacular views and a profound sense of solitude.

The Gokyo Lakes Trek: "Other Side" of Everest

Imagine a symphony of six turquoise glacial lakes, shimmering under a cathedral of 8,000-meter peaks. This is the magic of Gokyo. The Gokyo Lakes Trek after EBC is a perfect progression, leading you up a parallel valley that is significantly quieter and, many argue, even more scenically stunning. The trek's crown jewel is the ascent of Gokyo Ri (5,357m). From its summit, you are rewarded with one of the best views of Mount Everest, a sweeping panorama that includes Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.

When debating Gokyo Lakes vs Everest Base Camp, the key differentiators are the profound tranquility and the unique beauty of the lakes themselves. For those wanting a comprehensive circuit, our itineraries at Places Nepal Treks often incorporate the challenging Cho La Pass, creating a spectacular bridge back towards the main valley and making this one of the most rewarding, quieter treks near Everest.

Trek the Gokyo Lake Trek

This trek features stunning turquoise glacial lakes and panoramic views of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

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Everest Three Passes Trek: The Hardest Everest Region Trek

If you found the EBC trek physically rewarding and are ready to test your limits, look no further. The Everest Three Passes Trek is the undisputed king of Everest treks, a demanding and glorious circuit designed for the supremely fit adventurer. This high-altitude odyssey involves crossing three formidable passes: the Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and the mighty Kongma La (5,535m).

The Everest high passes trek difficulty is a significant step up, requiring superior stamina and acclimatization. So, is the Three Passes Trek worth it? For the right individual, the answer is an emphatic YES. The reward is an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and views that are simply without equal, as this trek weaves the EBC and Gokyo Lakes trails into one massive, unforgettable loop.

Trek the Everest Three Passes Trek

Conquer the Three Passes, Experience Everest’s Ultimate Trekking Adventure.

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Climbing Your First Himalayan Peak After EBC

You’ve trekked to the foot of the world's highest mountains. Are you ready to stand on top of one? Graduating from high-altitude trekking to introductory mountaineering is a thrilling and natural progression. Don't let the term "mountaineering" intimidate you. Nepal’s designated "trekking peaks" are the perfect gateway. You don’t need to be a professional climber, just a fit trekker with proven acclimatization ability and a thirst for a bigger challenge.

Island Peak (Imja Tse): The World's Most Popular First Climb

At 6,189 meters (20,305 ft), Island Peak is the quintessential first Himalayan peak to climb. It is the perfect objective for a peak climb after the Everest Base Camp itinerary, as your body is already well-acclimatized. At Places Nepal Treks, our expert guides transform this climb into an empowering experience. You'll learn essential skills like using crampons and an ice axe during a dedicated training day before the pre-dawn summit push. The climb itself involves ascending a steep headwall with fixed lines and traversing an exhilarating final ridge to a small, perfect summit.

The Island Peak climbing for beginners program is designed for safety and success, but the Island Peak climbing difficulty must be respected. It is a long, cold, and physically demanding day. A combined EBC and Island Peak itinerary is one of our most popular and rewarding expeditions.

Trek the Island Peak Climbing

Climb Island Peak (6,189m) on a 16-day expedition through the Everest region, complete with acclimatization, technical training, and jaw-dropping Himalayan views.

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Climbing Lobuche East: The Technical Post-EBC Challenge

For those who want a slightly more technical and adventurous climb, Lobuche East (6,119m) is an exceptional choice. Its primary advantage is its location, delivering jaw-dropping, close-up summit views of Everest's south face, the sheer wall of Lhotse, and the entire Khumbu Icefall.

The Lobuche East vs Island Peak debate is common among aspiring climbers. Lobuche East involves more rock scrambling and is considered a more sustained technical challenge. A frequent question is, "Do you need climbing experience for Lobuche East?" While helpful, it’s not a prerequisite on our guided climbs. Our certified guides provide thorough training, but the climb demands a high level of fitness and a solid spirit of adventure.

Trek the Lobuche Peak Climbing

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Which Trek or Climb Should You Do After Everest Base Camp?