Everest Base Camp Trek in June

One of the best-loved treks in Nepal, perhaps the world, is the Everest Base Camp Trek.  This trek guides hikers through forests, over suspension bridges, to famous towns, into a stunningly situated Buddhist monastery, over rocky climbs and difficult trails to the foot of the highest mountain in the world.  

It is a difficult and strenuous trek not to be undertaken lightly.  But for those who do decide to make the effort, it is one of the most rewarding adventures you can have.

The first part of the planning is to plan your own physical fitness.  The second is to learn as much as you can about the region before you go so nothing will surprise you. Well, many things will surprise you, but at least you will be prepared!  Getting the right gear and thinking about the altitude you will be hiking at is also something to plan in advance. 

And finally, be prepared to see the most stunning mountains on the planet with their rocky outcrops, and snowy and sometimes cloud-covered summits.  This is 12-14 days of tough walking, mingling with locals and other trekkers, being inspired and awed by the scenery and having a sense of achievement. 

Overview of Trekking to EBC in June

By the end of June, monsoon will have set in throughout Nepal.  Thankfully, it rains less at high altitudes than in the lowlands or hills.  There may well be some rain at Lukla and Namche which will cause flight delays.  Delays can also be caused by bad weather outside of the region.  

The climbing season has come to an end, and by mid-June, pretty much all climbers will have made their way back to their hometowns.  

There will also be a noticeable difference in the number of trekkers in the area.  At the start of the month, there will be more, which will reduce as the month goes on. Prices for accommodation may also come down.  But please don’t try to bargain on the food prices.  It remains a challenge to get goods into the area.  

The trails themselves will be slippery when it rains and some patches may be muddy.  There is an increasing chance, as the monsoon season goes on, of landslides which you should be aware of.  If travelling alone, ask the lodge if they have any news of landslides on the trail. 

Trails will be open and the weather is warm and at times humid. Daytime temperatures at Namche will start increasing from around 12 to 15 centigrade.  The mountains may appear cloudy on some days.  Which you can either view as frustrating or as a bit different and adding to the thrill and atmosphere.  

Naturally, if it is cloudy it adds to the possibility of flight delays. 

Weather and Climate in June in the Everest Region

While it will be warm in the day at lower altitudes, up to say Namche Bazaar, it will still be cool at night.  While there will be little rain until nearer the end of June and even then, it is never going to be constant downpours like in the lowland areas of the country, there could well be cloud which is going to obscure the mountains and interfere with flights.  

Pros and Cons of Trekking to EBC in June  

Early in the month, it is pretty good for trekking.  When the monsoon hits (usually mid-June) there may be some rain resulting in slippery trails and flight delays.  The best way to deal with it is to bring good sturdy waterproof boots, a waterproof jacket and covers for your gear, and accept with grace any delays due to the weather.

On the other hand, the trails and teahouses will be less busy and you may sometimes feel like you have the mountains to yourself.  Accommodation in Everest Base Camp will be non-problematic and may even be a bit cheaper than in peak seasons.  At the discretion of the lodge owner. 

Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek in June

Preparing for a trek is normal, regardless of country or time of the year.  Preparing for Everest Base Camp Trek is a little more intense!

Physical Fitness and Training for Everest Base Camp Trek

If you are not a regular hiker you might want to rethink this trek, or at least the month.  If you are fit, confident and going with a guide from a reputable agency, then you should be fine, but if you are going solo, we highly recommend you think again.  Why?  There will be fewer trekkers on the trail, so fewer people to notice if you have a problem.  Even a twisted ankle can become a serious setback on the remote sections of the trail. 

Regardless, you should begin your fitness journey several weeks, if not months, before arriving in Nepal.  Remember that even if you are very fit, and can walk for miles at home on your weekend hikes, the Himalayas are high.  Altitude adds stress to the body and makes things take longer and seem harder.  

On the other hand, it is very often the mindset that gets you through.  If you think you can do it, you probably can! 

Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness for Everest Base Camp Trek

It is important to acclimatize before going into an area which sits at a high altitude.  You will have read this over and over while you have been researching the EBC Trek.  Why acclimatize?   If you do not, you run the risk of developing a very nasty case of altitude-related illness.  Remember, even the climbers on Mount Everest take weeks to acclimatize before they feel their bodies are ready to make it to the summit.  

On this trek, there are two acclimatization points built into all itineraries.  One at Namche Bazaar and one at Dingboche.  It is important to follow this well-researched, tried and tested advice.  

Even so, if you develop a headache, and most people will develop some type of headache by the time they get to Namche, please pay attention.  Low-grade aches will subside themselves as your body adapts.  But if your body is slow at adapting you may need to take some steps to help it.  

The only way to deal with high altitude-related illnesses is to go lower.  There is a phrase “Climb high, sleep low” which is exactly what the mountaineers on Everest are doing.  It is something trekkers should do also if they feel unwell.   Headache, dizziness, feeling sick, loss of appetite, unable to sleep…  take it seriously.  The ultimate price to pay for ignoring the signs is death.  

And yet, it is so easy to remedy in its early stages.  Go down! 

No one knows why altitude affects some more than others and no one knows why it is so random: a fit young person can develop altitude sickness while an older, less fit person does not.    Some clues are hydration and speed.  Always drink as much water as possible and never go faster than reasonable.  You are here to enjoy the mountains, not set a new trail-running record!  Going too high too soon/ fast is a recipe for disaster. 

Tips to Avoid Altitude-Related Illness

Staying hydrated is pretty much the key.   Drink a lot of water – other liquids are fine too as long as you drink all the water you can in addition. 

Eating well gives you more energy to fight off any minor illness or injury.  Do not be tempted to skip meals. 

Regardless of how fit you are, don’t rush up the mountains!  Going at a steady pace will help beat altitude-related illnesses too.  It is also the best way to enjoy the scenery, and the people, and to protect your ankles into the bargain! 

Let other people, your guide or companion, know if you have a headache.  A headache is the first sign that something is not right.  Also, be aware if others in your group have a headache.  Not that it is related, you are just being a good friend by looking out for them.  

If you are unwell by backtracking to a lower altitude it is very likely that will be sufficient.  If you still feel bad (nauseous, can’t sleep, worsening headache) after two nights at a lower altitude you should seek advice from one of the health posts listed below or go even further down. 

Altitude-related problems can affect anyone.  It has nothing to do with age, gender, or fitness level. 

Essential Gear and Clothing for EBC in June

Here is a general all-season list of gear for trekking in the Himalayas.  In June you will need clothing for all eventualities.  For the warmer daytime temperatures, for the cold nights and for rain and muddy trails. 

• Sleeping bag and inner sleeping bag 
• Trekking boots. Waterproof with soles that will grip wet rocks better. 
• Trekking trousers and waterproof over trousers in case of rain.  
• Trekking tops which are easy to layer and which will soak up sweat. 
• Fleece jacket and waterproof over a jacket or a poncho, if it is not windy! 
• Socks
• Gloves and a warm hat for evenings and a bandana again to soak up the sweat
• Sun hat 
• Trekking poles 
• Moleskin for blisters
• Waterproof cover for daypack
• Dry bags of different sizes for your dirty clothes and other items
• Nepali rupees for hot water, charging your equipment, soft drinks, etc. 
• Sunscreen 
• Lip balm
• Moisturiser
• Water bottle 
• Water purifying tablets or purifying straws for drinking water 
• Sunglasses – so much the better if they are large and/or wrap around
• Camera and waterproof case/ bag
• Whistle (in case of emergencies)
• Medical kit (including extras of your regular medicines in case of delays)
• Personal hygiene kit: toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, soap, sponge, towel, toilet paper 
• Washing soap but why not just take dirty clothes back to the laundry in Kathmandu? 
• Notebook, pen, and other materials you may use
• Phone charger and power pack

Obtaining Permits and Documentation

You need two main permits to trek in the Everest Region:

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: Nrs 2,000 per person.

Obtainable in Lukla or Monjo.  Not available in Kathmandu.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: Nrs 3,000 per person

The national permit is obtainable at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or in Monjo at the gate entrance for Sagarmatha National Park. More convenient to purchase the ticket at Monjo. 

A Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit is required if you are trekking in from Jiri at Nrs3,000 per person.  This is obtainable at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu.

Required documents for trekking permits: You need a copy of your passport for all permits.  For the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit, you will also need to provide two passport-sized photographs.  Pay in local currency.

Itineraries and Routes for Everest Base Camp Trek

Popular Route Options in June 

All routes are open in June although do listen for news of landslides, potential landslides and muddy areas as the month progresses.  

Trekking with Helicopter Tour  in June 

We now can offer shorter treks to Everest Base Camp with the return journey by helicopter.  These new, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9-day treks take out a lot of stress but leave in all the adventure.  Helicopters will be easier to get in June – climbing expeditions are gone and there are fewer potential passengers looking for seats – and the weather does not affect helicopters the same way as it affects fixed-wing planes. 

Modifications Due to Weather Conditions

There will most likely be delays in the fixed-wing flights due to the monsoon weather.  If you keep in mind that this might happen, you are less likely to be disappointed when it does!  Driving from the lowland airport at Ramechhap to/from Kathmandu will take a bit longer during the monsoon season.  Take plenty of snacks to eat on the way! 

As for the trails themselves, they will be open and accessible.  Rain will fall mainly at lower altitudes (Namche and below) although there may be rain at higher altitudes also. 

Major Stops and Highlights Along the Way

What makes the EBC Trek so popular is the vast array of things to see on the way.  There are the mountains of course, but there is also so much more!

Flying into the Hillary Tenzing Airport at Lukla, one of the highest airports in the world, is always thrilling. 

The way to Namche Bazaar from Lukla means crossing suspension bridges, passing through the welcome gate at the start of the Sagarmatha National Park and having an overnight in Phakding. 

Explore Namche Bazaar as you spend your two days for acclimatization there.  

Visit the Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Heritage Centre newly opened at the older Sagarmatha National Park Visitors Centre. Now is the opportunity to learn interesting facts about those early pioneers of mountaineering. 

Pop into the Irish Pub in Namche where they sell  Guinness, and have a pool table. 

Seek out the bars that host an Everest-related movie every afternoon at 3 p.m.

Visit a bakery for some cake and other goodies.  

Visit the Saturday market if you are here at the right time.  Handicrafts to take home!  

Hike to Khumjung to explore the village Hillary was so fond of and find out more about him and the Sherpa people. 

Birdwatch!  Did you know Nepal’s national bird is called the Danphe? You can find them around here. 

Hike to Hotel Everest View and up endless stairs to a wonderful terrace restaurant with astounding views of the majestic Everest. 

Spend time in Tengboche Monastery with the monks.  You can listen to the chanting, light oil lamps and be amazed at the mountain views from their terrace. Please note, it is usual to make a small donation to the Monastery. 

Be amazed that the small, seemingly insignificant settlement of Lobuche on the route to Everest Base Camp is of such importance.  

Kalapattar – Everest View Point – the best place to get close up to Mt Everest and get the best pictures and videos.  

Everest Base Camp – certainly a major highlight of this trek! 

Major Highlight of the Month in June

Dumji Festival in Everest Region

This celebration of the birth of Guru Rimpoche is held in the fifth of the Tibetan calendar, which is usually either June or July. Strangely, in the Everest Region, they celebrate one month before the rest of the world. 

Starting with 6 days of preparation, this 10-day festival really starts when a flagpole is hoisted in the monastery on the 7^th day. Fire rituals, changing of prayer flags, worship and food and drink are the order of the day, along with blessings.  Having started in Pangboche Monastery over 300 years ago today the festival is held in Phakding, Namche, Khumjung, Thame and Pangboche. 

Not only does the festival celebrate the birth of Guru Rimpoche, but it also strengthens community spirit.  Each year a group of families are chosen to host the festival. Because this is expensive, it is unlikely that any one family (or member) will have to host the festival more than once or twice in their lifetime.  

Since this festival happens during the monsoon off-season, few trekkers ever get to witness it.  Dates are always a little flexible, but for 2024 it is scheduled for June 13 to 16 should you be planning your trek for around that time. 

Other Highlights of Trekking to EBC in June Include:

• Sunset or sunrise from the top of Kalapattar – truly spectacular.

• The new Norgay Sherpa Heritage Centre in Namche is worth a visit and is sure to be a staple on the acclimatization days.  

• Exploring Khumjung village: How did Hillary pay back the Sherpa community?  Find out there.

Meeting fellow trekkers who have braved the promise of rain in the monsoon.  

• And of course gazing at the mountains in complete awe. 

Accommodation and Logistics in Everest Base Camp Trek in June

Teahouses and Lodges During the Trek in June

The teahouses in the Khumbu (Everest Region) are well established and used to dealing with foreign trekkers and their requirements.  Rooms are usually twin-bedded, sparsely furnished and with shared toilets.  Hot water for a shower has to be paid for.  But how many do you need anyway?  

Similarly, if you require to recharge your phone etc., you will have to pay a small amount. 

It is expected that you eat where you sleep.  Breakfast and dinner. 

Food and Water Availability in June

Breakfast is pretty universal consisting of eggs, toast, Tibetan bread, porridge, pancakes, tea and coffee.  Dinner is usually a choice of Tibetan (or Sherpa), Nepali, Indian and Continental food.  The larger the settlement the more extensive the menu.   Lunch is taken on the trail at small teashops. 

Drinking water has to be boiled by the guesthouse so they will charge a little for that.  

Beer and soft drinks are sold but do not drink alcohol until your last couple of days. Dehydration, upset stomachs and hangovers are not good on the trail!  

Hiring a Guide and Porter for Everest Base Camp in June

If travelling alone you might be planning to hire a guide or porter at Lukla. Definitely, it is best to trek with someone, and a local is knowledgeable about the trails, weather conditions and best lodges to stay at.  

Safety and Travel Tips Everest Base Camp in June

Monitoring Weather Conditions   

June is the start of the monsoon. Things should be fine at the beginning of the month but by the end of the month, it may be getting a bit wet lower down the trail.  Even at higher levels, there may be rain.    Expect and plan for a couple of days of rain during this time.  

Finding out about weather in the region is tricky but if you are interested in what is happening on Everest the National Geographics has set up its own weather centre – the Everest Weather Station Network.  For the weather where you are, you can put the setting for this station at its lowest (4,000m) to give you an idea of what is like at base camp and lower altitudes. https://everest-pwa.nationalgeographic.org/  

Coping with the Weather and Altitude

Above you will find our tips for coping with altitude, the number one is to acclimatize.  Look out for headaches which do not go away or get worse. 

Regarding the weather – waterproof boots and a rain jacket are essential. Waterproof coverings for day packs and electronics are also essential.  

Travel Insurance and Emergency Services

Make sure your insurance covers you for trekking up to 5,000m.  If you need emergency evacuation the helicopter company will require proof you can pay for it.  This means providing a copy of your insurance.  Or producing a lot of cash.  They probably won’t accept cards in the mountains as there is no way to verify you have money in your account. 

If you require medical attention when you get back to Kathmandu, CIWEC Hospital in Lazimpat is used to dealing with trekking ailments and illnesses. is the usual one of choice as it deals with a lot of trekkers who suffer from stomach problems or altitude-related problems.  They will accept insurance.  Health posts along the trail will not accept insurance or cards.  Only cash. 

Health Posts Along the Trail

Please carry your own first aid kit for simple cuts, bruises and ailments.  If you book through a reputable agency, your guide should be carrying one too.

For more serious issues, there are some health posts on the trails as follows: 

Himalayan Sherpa Hospital, at Phakding, opened in November 2022 offering outpatient and emergency services to locals in its 15 beds. More information can be found here http://www.himalayansherpafoundation.org/project/himalayan-sherpa-hospital-in-phakding/

Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA), is at Pheriche and is manned during the busy spring and autumn trekking seasons by volunteer doctors.  It has been in operation since 1973, as a non-profit organisation with the objective of reducing casualties in the mountains. Their main task is to prevent altitude-related deaths among visiting trekkers and locals.   They give a talk on altitude-related problems every day at 3 pm which you are welcome to attend.  As a non-profit, any donation you would like to give is also highly appreciated.  More information is found here https://www.himalayanrescue.org/

The Mountain Medical Institute (MMI) clinic is found at Namche and Dingboche.  Please note the Dingboche branch is closed in the winter months. Staffed by doctors trained in the unique needs of people living and travelling at high altitudes, the clinic in Namche has a basic lab, EKG, and ultrasonography. Call: 985-2850021/ 981-3933179 / 984-1936205.

Be Responsible

Look after your own health and belongings.  Accidents do happen but please do not expect locals to deal with all your major concerns.  They will do what they can, but remember they see thousands of trekkers coming through each year.

Embracing the Challenges of Trekking in June 

The main challenge towards the second half of the month will be the clouds, slippery rocks and muddy trails.  Flight delays are likely.  In the early half of the month, the weather is good, and the trails should be dry. 

Tips for Trekking Everest Base Camp in June

• Enjoy the solitude and quietness, as well as the mountains. 

• The mountains will be a little cloudy at times. 

• Plan well for your trip whether it’s your kit or your fitness.  

• Consider seriously taking a guide and/or porter.  Especially in the rain and slippery conditions. 

• If hiking over slippery trails, pay special attention to the ground.  No one wants to twist an ankle, or worse.  

• Book your international flight some days after you propose to get back to Kathmandu in case of delays.  Then you will be stress free in case you have to wait for clouds to clear. 

Alternatives to Everest Base Camp Trek

Gokyo Lake Trek

You can take a detour to the Everest base camp to watch the highest freshwater lake in the world; Gokyo Lake.

Gokyo Lake Trek consists of an 11-day expedition to Gokyo Valley.

The Gokyo Lakes are of utmost importance to Hindus and Buddhists. You can enjoy the view of crystal clear water body and wash all your worries there.

Along the trek, you can even see Ngozumpa, the largest glacier in Nepal.

After climbing to Gokyo Ri, you can watch the panorama of different mountains including Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Cho Oyu.

Everest Three High Pass Trek

As the name suggests, the Everest Three High Pass Trek consists of three high-altitude passes: Renjo La Pass (5,465m), Cho La Pass (5,420m) and Kongma La Pass (5,535m).

This 16-day trek is for people with high stamina. You can get spectacular views of the mountains and lakes which you can’t see on the normal trek. It also consists of the usual trail so you get the best of all in this one.