Everest Base Camp Trek in December

Many people know a few about Nepal but they know much about the Mt. Everest. And trekking in the Everest region is the dream for many as people crave to walk on the foothills of the giant peaks. This trek starts from Lukla- a gateway to the Everest region around 45 minutes flight from Kathmandu.

Spring and Autumn are the preferred time to trek to the Everest region. During this time, you will encounter the sea of trekkers on the trail. You may have to compete for the cozy rooms. To avoid all these, and walk in the complete wilderness, why not trek in December? The time when many avoid treks fearing the cold. But trust me! You will not regret the decision you make once you set on the trail.

Why Trek Everest Base Camp in December?

Low precipitation

If you check the weather for EBC trek, Everest region has almost no precipitation during December. Dry time of the year, you may see some snow. Then you are lucky! You can walk dry and do not have to worry about walking in wet clothes to the final destination of the day. Also, low precipitation means less cold.

Good visibility/clearest views

You walk under the crystal clear skies with a sharp visibility of the whole surrounding. During the winter, the chilly winds blow away the clouds covering Mt. Everest. Thus, offering the clearest of views. Generally, the late December is time for snowfall. The dense snow may block the trails and passes. So you can trek in early December if you want to avoid the snow.

Few trekkers/ quiet trails

It is the off-season for trekking in Everest region. Many people rather postpone their trek to the Spring or Autumn fearing the cold. So, if you choose December for your trek, you will be proud of your wise decision while on the trail. The route which gets overcrowded in peak seasons is quite peaceful in December. You get to spend as much time on the trail as much you like. Enjoy the surrounding in complete wilderness. You feel like entering into the winter wonderland. Also, you can click as many pictures as you like as there will be no disturbance.

More choices for accommodations

During this time, you will find the lodges and tea houses quite peaceful. You need not bargain for prices and cozy beds. You will have easy accommodations and meals at cheaper prices than in peak seasons. Also, in the colder nights, you get chance to rest in the kitchen near the fireplace. Also, you do not have to struggle for the hot showers. You will get better facilities even without any complaints.

Easy flights

Less inflow the tourists during winter means you will get easy tickets for the flights from Kathmandu to Lukla. You need not struggle to book the flights at all. Except, when the weather is cloudy and unfavorable for flights.

The weather and the climate play the crucial role in your trek, whichever time you choose to trek. The weather of the Base Camp changes often times. Nights are cooler than days are.

Everest Base Camp weather in December

December is the beginning of winter and coldest month in Nepal. In the higher altitudes, the temperature falls below 0℃ in winter. Besides cold, Everest Base Camp is much quieter during December. And to your bonus, you get to walk past the frozen surrounding and the pristine landscape.

The Everest region is very cold- freezing cold during mornings and nights. At night, the average temperature is around – 14℃. Yet, the average temperature ranges from 15 degrees- 20 degree Celsius during sunny days. The daytime is bearable. You get to enjoy the warm sun in the snowy surrounding.

For more detail: Everest Base Camp Weather

December Trekking Tips

• Dress in layers! Dress warm as chilly winds may blow any time.
• Better carry extra down jackets and warm sleeping bags.
• Be prepared for a night out, weather and difficult trails.

Packaging lists for EBC Trek

• Sleeping Bag
• Trekking boots(waterproof)
• Trekking trousers
• Thermals
• Jackets(Down and fleece)
• Trekking socks
• Gloves
• Moisturiser
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Trekking Poles
• Solar Torch
• Water purifiers
• Thermal Flask
• Beanie and caps

For more detail: EBC Trek packing list

Alternatives to Everest Base Camp Trek

Gokyo Valley Trek

Gokyo valley trek is one of the exotic and less visited trek in the Everest region. It is completely off the beaten track in the completely rustic location. This is a moderate trek and you can visit any time of the year. But March-May, and September-December is the best time for this trek.

On this trek you get to witness six freshwater glittering lakes of the Gokyo valley along with multiple glacial lakes. And the Ngozumpa Glacier- the largest glacier in Nepal is on your trek trail.

This trek includes the adventurous climb to the Gokyo Ri(5,357 meters) for stunning views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu.

On this trek you get to walk in the quiet trails exploring the typical Sherpa settlements and the beautiful Khumbu region. This trek is a trek for those who wish to explore Everest region from the different perspective.

The trek’s starting point is Lukla, where the trail diverges to Gokyo valley from the teahouse at Kenjoma.

Khumbu Valley Trek

Khumbu region is an ideal hub for the Himalayan Sherpa people. On this trek you get chance to divulge into the Sherpa culture and their traditions. The scattered settlements of Sherpa people, exotic villages, Buddhist monasteries, hanging prayer flags entices you along the route.

Also, in this trek, you get chance to walk to the Tengboche monastery (3,900 meters) and get to know about several mysteries of the Buddhist religion.

The place offers majestic views of Everest, Amadablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Twachee, Kwangde, Kangtega and Thamserku.

Also, the stroll around Sagarmatha National Park amazes you with the diverse himalayan flora and fauna.

The trek proceeds further from Lukla after a 45 minutes flight from Kathmandu. In December, you get the chance to explore the snowy surrounding but the warm hospitality of locals to keep you warm enough.