How cold is Everest Base Camp Trek in December: Temperature, Weather, Travel Tips
Trip Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a popular and iconic trekking route in the Himalayas, taking you to the foot of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. The trek begins in Lukla, a small town at an altitude of 2,860 meters, and follows a scenic route through Sherpa villages, forests, and valleys to reach the base camp at an altitude of 5,364 meters. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Lhotse, Nuptse, and Everest itself, as well as opportunities to experience the rich culture and traditions of the Sherpa people.
Major Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek
. Stunning views of Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, and other majestic Himalayan peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu
. Trekking through Sherpa villages, such as Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, to experience the unique culture and traditions of the local people
. Visiting ancient monasteries, including Tengboche Monastery, one of the largest in the Khumbu region
. Crossing suspension bridges over rivers and valleys, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
. Hiking to the summit of Kala Patthar (5,545m), a viewpoint that offers spectacular views of Everest and the surrounding peaks
. Witnessing the stunning sunrise and sunset from various viewpoints along the trek
. Passing through lush forests, including rhododendron and birch trees, and experiencing the unique flora and fauna of the Himalayas
. Reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many trekkers.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in December is possible, but it comes with some unique challenges and advantages. December marks the beginning of the winter season in the Everest region, which brings colder temperatures and fewer trekkers on the trail.
Advantages of Trekking in December:
. Fewer Crowds: The trail is much less crowded compared to the peak seasons of spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). You’ll have a more peaceful experience in teahouses and at viewpoints.
. Clear Skies: December often brings stable weather with clear skies, especially in the mornings. This means you’ll likely enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest, without haze or clouds.
. Serenity and Solitude: With fewer people on the trail, you’ll have a more serene experience, making the trek feel more personal and intimate.
Weather of the Everest Base Camp Trek in December:
Dry Season: December falls in the dry season, meaning there’s very little rainfall. Skies are generally clear, providing excellent visibility of the mountains.
Snow: Snowfall is possible at higher altitudes, especially above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), including around the Base Camp area.
Wind: It can get quite windy, especially at night or at higher altitudes.
Temperatures of Everest Base Camp Trek in December:
Lower Elevations (e.g., Lukla, Namche Bazaar):
. Daytime: 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F)
. Nighttime: -4°C to -10°C (25°F to 14°F)
Mid Elevations (e.g., Tengboche, Dingboche):
. Daytime: 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)
. Nighttime: Around -10°C or + (Around 14°F)
Higher Elevations (e.g., Gorak Shep, EBC):
. Daytime: Around -5°C or + (23°F or +)
. Nighttime: Around -15°C or + (5°F or +)
Travel Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in December:
Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in December requires careful preparation due to the cold weather and potential snow conditions. Here are some important tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable experience:
. Layering System: Dress in layers to adjust your body temperature as you trek. Use moisture-wicking base layers, insulating middle layers (like fleece or down), and waterproof outer layers.
. Quality Down Jacket: Invest in a high-quality, warm-down jacket that can keep you warm during cold nights and at high altitudes.
. Thermal Wear: Thermal tops and bottoms are essential for keeping your core warm, especially at night.
. Headgear and Gloves: A warm hat, insulated gloves, and a neck gaiter or scarf are critical for protecting exposed skin from freezing temperatures.
. Insulated Boots: Wear well-fitted, insulated, and waterproof trekking boots to protect your feet from snow and cold. Bring extra warm socks and use foot warmers if necessary. Drink Plenty of
. Water: Cold weather can mask dehydration, so ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a thermos to drink warm fluids like tea or soup.
. Eat High-Calorie Meals: The cold increases your body’s energy needs, so eat plenty of high-calorie foods (rice, noodles, potatoes, lentils) and carry snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit.
. Hot Water Bottle: A hot water bottle can be a lifesaver to keep you warm at night.
. Lip Balm and Moisturizer: The cold, dry air can crack your skin and lips, so pack moisturizer and a good lip balm with SPF.
. Sunglasses and Sunscreen: UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes, and snow reflects sunlight, increasing exposure. Protect your eyes with sunglasses and your skin with high-SPF sunscreen.
. Acclimatization: Altitude sickness is always a concern on the EBC trek, regardless of the season. It’s important to follow the same acclimatization rules, with rest days at places like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
. Positive Mindset: December trekking is more challenging, but with the right gear and mindset, it’s a unique adventure. Prepare yourself mentally for long, cold nights, but also for the serene beauty and solitude that come with trekking Everest Base Camp in winter.
. Embrace Flexibility: Be flexible with your plans, as winter conditions may force adjustments to your itinerary or even prevent you from reaching the Base Camp.
How much does it cost Everest Base Camp Trek?
Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition, the direct operator for Everest Base Camp Trek authorized by the Nepal government and managed by local tourism experts, sherpas, and experienced guides from Nepal, offers affordable prices for Everest Base Camp Trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek Cost | USD 1195 Per Person |
Kindly find below services inclusive in the given EBC trek price.
The above Package Cost includes: |
• On your arrival day airport pickup service by car. |
• 2-night accommodation in Kathmandu at Tourist Standard Hotel with breakfast (1 night before the trek and 1 night after the trek). |
• Air Tickets for Lukla Flights. |
• Airport tax on Lukla flights. |
• 11-night accommodation in Mountain Lodge/ Tea House during trekking. |
• 3 Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in a day during the trek. |
• During trekking, one experienced friendly trekking Guide. |
• Expenses for food, accommodation, insurance, transport, and the wages of trekking staff. |
• Trekking Permit (TIMS Card)/ Khumbu Gaun Palika fee. |
• Sagarmatha National Park fee. |
• All ground transport types are as mentioned in the itinerary. |
• Altitude medicines, Oximeter, first aid medicines. |
• Map of Everest Base Camp Trekking route. |
• Trip Achievement Certificate will be awarded after completion of the trip. |
• All government taxes, local taxes, and tourist service charges. |
• Farewell dinner on the last night of the trip at a typical Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu with cultural dances of different ethnic groups of Nepal. |
• On your departure day airport drop service by car. |
Please find below services which do not include in the above EBC trek price.
The above Package Cost does not include: |
• Airfare for your international flight. |
• Nepal Visa Fee (You can easily get Nepal visa at the arrival time at the airport in Kathmandu) |
• Your travel insurance (As the EBC trek is a high altitude journey it is advised to do travel insurance which covers medical & heli evacuation.) |
• Alcoholic beverages, Hot and cold drinks, hot water, bottled water, dessert. |
• All kinds of personal expenses like phone calls, internet use, laundry, battery charge, hot shower during trekking, excess baggage charge, etc. |
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except for farewell dinner on the last night of the trip. |
• Porter |
• In case of emergency helicopter rescue/ evacuation & its cost. |
• Tips for Trekking Staff. |
• Any expenses arising due to unforeseen situations like flight cancellation, personal sickness, natural calamities, political strikes, etc. |
• Cost of any extra services, if you use which are not mentioned in the above package, includes section. |
Notes:
I. The above Everest Base Camp Trek cost is on a per-person basis for a minimum group size of two persons.
II. If you are single and want to do Solo Trek. We also organize the Everest Base Camp Trek for solo trekkers. For the solo trekker, we have a separate Everest Base Camp Trek Package price. Please contact us for the Everest Base Camp Trek cost for Solo Trekking.
Please contact us by email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at +977 9851203181 for any further information about Everest Base Camp Trek, or if any questions. Once we receive your message, we get back to you within 24 hours.
Everest Base Camp Trek without taking a flight to Lukla is also possible. If you want Everest Base Camp Trek without flights, please click this hyperlink: Everest Base Camp Trek without flight.
Why Excellent Himalaya Company for Everest Base Camp Trek?
Many companies promote the Everest Base Camp Trek package. Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition Pvt Ltd is different from others in the sense that it is based only in Nepal and managed by Nepalese tourism experts and local guides. Our team has been engaged in the Nepalese tourism industry since 2002. We are a trekking company authorized by the Nepal Government Tourism Ministry. Our company’s government registration number is 175840/074/075 and our license number to operate trekking, tour, and mountain expeditions in Nepal is 2432. We are associated with different tourism organizations like TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal), NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association), etc.
Our further features are as below by which people around the world trust us as the authentic organizer of Everest Base Camp Trek:
Team of Local Experts and Guides: As this company is managed and run by well-trained, experienced & competent local experts, and guides, we know well about the mountain trail, ecology, culture, etc. of the trekking routes. We know the best way of trekking and also we get you the same way.
Trustworthy: Trust is something that comes from commitment. Hence, being a legally registered company, we commit to providing the best, most satisfactory trekking, tours, and expeditions. We are operating all trekking, and climbing tours in Nepal based on reality, integrity, and honesty.
Focus on your needs: We highly value all our clients. We always move according to your interests and requirements. Because your satisfaction is our goal. Thus, all our trekking, tour, and mountaineering packages are customizable.
Fair Price: As we are a direct operator, not an agent, our price is always competitive and does not have any middle and hidden fees. We provide the value of what you are buying from our services at least equal to your paying amount.
Safety: Your safety is our priority. Trekking to the Himalayas is both exciting and adventurous. So we provide you with all the safety materials needed, along with motivational counseling.
Friendly, and Professional Staff: We have highly friendly, helpful, and professional staff. Our staff looks after you right from the moment of your arrival to the time of your departure. They can cope with most emergencies including those requiring evacuation and hospitalization.
Real Cared Services: Our one travel consultant or our local trekking guide keeps in touch with our clients every time. We make sure their protection is guaranteed so that they will have peace of mind while trekking with us.