The Everest region of Nepal is beckoning adventures from around the world with its snowcapped peaks, ancient community, rich cultures, and classic trekking routes. It is in the heart of the majestic Himalayas.
The traditional trekking route to Everest Base Camp via Lukla is popular for its iconic trail. However, a realm of alternative routes promises to discover the hidden treasures.
All the alternative routes to Everest Base Camp offer a different perspective on these stunning landscapes. Each alternative route presents its blend of rugged terrain, traditional immersion, and breathtaking vistas.
The beauty of this place invites trekkers from all over the world. From remote valleys, these routes provide the beautiful scenery of snowcapped mountains and diverse landscapes.
Trekkers can embark on a journey of discovery through some of the world’s most spectacular wilderness. However, the goal is to reach Everest Base Camp at an elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).
From the remote valley of the Rolwaling region to the scenery of the turquoise Lake of Gokyo, this alternative route offers an unforgettable experience, each more captivating than the last.
This ensures that every trekker finds his or her path to adventure amidst the towering peaks of the Everest region. Another thing to consider while choosing the alternative route is to navigate the direction correctly.
Here’s a detailed explanation of the alternative routes to Everest Base Camp.
Jiri to Everest Base Camp
The Jiri to Everest Base Camp trek offers trekkers a longer and more gradual approach to reaching the iconic base camp. The main attraction of this trip is the route goes through a remote area with scenic views.
The journey starts with the scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to the Jiri. Afterward, trekkers embark on a journey through the lower Solu region, traversing lush forests, terraced farmland, and charming villages.
Reaching Everest Base Camp via the Jiri route is a more ambitious and less trod method. Hikers may take in the breathtaking scenery of the lower Solu region while progressively acclimating to this path. Journeying from Jiri to Everest Base Camp usually takes about 17 – 21 days.
Trekking from Jiri to Everest Base Camp is popular having a mesmerizing Himalayan journey. It provides breathtaking views of Kalapathhar, Mount Everest, Khumbu Glacier, and snow-capped mountains.
The 17 – 21 days EBC Trek through Jiri is the best alternative way to see Mount Everest Nepal. However, it can also be finished within 10 – 14 days as the length of the trekking days depends on how quickly the hiker walks.
There are various valleys and ridgelines along the route from Jiri to Lukla, which is the most challenging part of the hike. The alternative journey to Everest Base Camp takes the classic route from Lukla where trekkers can witness two different aspects of Nepal.
Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass
The Gokyo Lakes route takes trekkers passing through the breathtaking Gokyo valley. It is renowned for its turquoise lakes and mesmerizing vistas of Mount Everest.
Trekkers will also traverse the challenging Cho La Pass, which provides an exhilarating adventure experience. This route is perfect for those who want to explore the less visited side of the Everest region.
The Gokyo lakes trek provides stunning views of altitude glacial lakes as well as the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. It is a very well-liked route in Nepal, which will start with a scenic flight to Lukla, which serves as the entrance to the Everest region.
The trail passes through the beautiful Sherpa village as it follows the Dudh Koshi River. Then after, the route passes by Gokyo Lakes, Longpongo, Taboche Tsho, and Namche Bazaar.
Moreover, the route continues towards the town of Gokyo, where you can hike Gokyo Ri, explore the fourth Gokyo lake, Thonak Tsho, and visit the fifth and sixth lakes. You can also explore the Gokyo Valley in addition to hiking the Gokyo lakes combined with the EBC trip.
Three Passes Trek
The Three Passes Trek is one of the most traditional but challenging alternative routes to the EBC trek. This route takes trekkers across three high passes that is Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.
This Path offers a different vantage spot with breathtaking vistas of the Everest region. Likewise, trekkers will have the opportunity to explore the remote villages and experience the local way of life.
Three Passes Trek is considered as a strenuous excursion in the Everest region in Nepal and is worth visiting. As trekkers pass by every path, they will get to see the beautiful views of the Himalayas with snow-capped peaks.
The journey starts from Lukla and then passes through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. Afterwards, the route ascends Chukhung then Lubuche by crossing Kongma La Pass.
The trek continues to Everest Base Camp, Lobuche, Dzongla, and then Gokyo via crossing Cho La Pass. This place offers mesmerizing views of glaciers and icefalls.
Continue trekking to Lauden by crossing Renjo La Pass. The Journey then descends to Thame, Namche Bazaar, and finally to Lukla. The journey will take 18 to 20 days in total to complete the Three Passes Trek.
Due to high passes crossing in isolated rugged terrain and sleeping at high elevations, it is best suited for experienced hikers who have a good physical condition.
Everest Base Camp via Helicopter
Everest Base Camp via helicopter is the best alternative to reach the base camp without doing any difficult and lengthy hikes. It is for those seeking a more luxurious and efficient option.
It is possible to reach Everest Base Camp by helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla, then Lukla to base camp, and return on the same day. This complete experience allows trekkers to avoid the long days of hiking and altitude gain.
Moreover, instead of flying directly to Everest Base Camp and returning on the same day, trekkers can choose to stay overnight at a luxury camp near the base. This allows them to stay longer in the lap of the Himalayas while taking the panoramic vistas of the high peaks surrounding them.
Trekkers enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas from the comfort of the helicopter along the way. It provides a unique perspective on the majestic mountains and landscapes of the Everest region.
While the Everest Base Camp offers luxury and convenience, it comes at a higher cost compared to traditional trekking options. However, it is the best option for those who have less time and physical limitations.
Overall, Everest Base Camp via helicopter return offers the unforgettable opportunity to experience the grandeur of Everest and surrounding peaks.
Rolwaling Valley
The Rolwaling Valley path provides trekking in the remote and off-the-beat route experience. Trekkers will enjoy a distinctive blend of natural and cultural elements as they pass through lush forests and beautiful Sherpa villages.
This path is perfect for those who prefer to get away from the throng and take in the stunning serenity of the Himalayas.
It is a remote trek in the Himalayas, which is quite challenging. The journey starts at Dunche and hiking along the Tama Koshi River to the Rolwaling Valley.
The trail lasts 20 – 21 days on the rough terrain reaching a maximum altitude of 5,220 meters at Tashi Labsta Pass.
However, this route offers stunning views of surrounding peaks, the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, and the world’s highest glacial lake.
The main highlight of this excursion is Tawoche Peak and Rolwaling Peak along with the vistas of historic Sherpa villages and monasteries.
In addition to providing trekkers to experience the Himalaya’s most breathtaking and inaccessible areas, while also offers cultural immersion and a sense of accomplishment.
In conclusion, embarking on a trek to EBC trek is once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay remarkable for trekkers. This journey ensures to creation of valuable memories and makes a lifetime connection whether you go to the traditional route or one of the alternatives listed above.
Trekkers might be impressed with the variety of alternative routes to Everest Base Camp. Each trail provides its unique attractions and challenges, serving different preferences and exploiting levels.
Take time to do research for your destination trek that fits your interest and desire places that resonate with you the most. Keep in mind that the trekking is just as essential as the destination.
So, prepare your packs, lace up your trekking boots, and get ready for a lifetime adventure. Everest Base Camp awaits!
