Nepal is a popular destination for trekking because of its stunning peaks and enthralling scenery. One special challenge among these summits is the Everest Base Camp Trek. It is among the most well-known treks in the world and has long drawn travelers to Nepal. Here’s the twist, though: Is it possible to trek to Everest Base Camp in December, even though it gets quite cold?
December is more often linked to warm weather and festive décor than it is to high-altitude experiences. People continue to come because of Everest’s appeal and their desire to get near to the tallest peak in the world, even during the coldest months of the year. Now let’s see what it’s like to Trek to Everest Base Camp in the month of December.
We’ll discuss the difficulties, the special benefits, and the likelihood of succeeding in this wintry paradise.
Things to Know About Everest Base Camp Trek in December
A trek to Everest Base Camp is best done in early December. Since we want to see snow in the Himalayas, winter treks are better than summer ones.
Trekking is intended to test one’s physical stamina, expose oneself to the mountain cold, and reveal snow-capped summits. Therefore, a real and enthusiastic trekker would always choose the winter Everest Base Camp trek over any other season, in our experience. The main topic of discussion on this blog is whether or not it is feasible to hike to Everest Base Camp in December.
Everest Base Camp Trek Weather in December
Though not as chilly as in January, December will be cooler than November. December is simply the beginning of winter. Since this is the off-season for hiking, the trails will be more tranquil than they are during other seasons. It could be feasible to secure the best room in the house, or at least a decent off-season rate on housing.
Some of the high passes will be closed due to snow. Do some research beforehand if you’re thinking of doing something similar to the Three Passes Trek. It shouldn’t rain, but there might be snow, especially later in the month. We think that novice hikers shouldn’t venture out on their own this month. Snow may make the trails slick and make it harder to see the trail, so even seasoned hikers should use additional caution.
Everest Base Camp Trek Temperature in December
| Place | Elevation | Avg Temp | Min Temp | Max Temp |
| Lukla | 2,829 m | 4°C | -1.9°C | 9.8°C |
| Namche | 3,463 m | 0.5°C | -6.4°C | 7.6°C |
| Dingboche | 4,483 m | -5.2°C | -13.3°C | 3.2°C |
| Lobuche | 4,910 m | -7.8°C | -16.1°C | 1.1°C |
| Everest Base Camp | 5,364 m | -9°C | -18.3°C | 1°C |
Snow Level during December
There might be more snow on your trip to Everest Base Camp in December, especially as you go higher up. Weather trends determine how much snow falls in December and how much falls every year.
It is unlikely that there will be much snow on the ground in lower-elevation locations like Lukla and Namche Bazaar. These places usually don’t get much snow in December.
But the trail may get snowy as you climb to Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Everest Base Camp. Because snow covers the path and makes it slick, it might make the trip more challenging. You will need the appropriate trekking gear, such as crampons or microspikes for walking on snowy terrain, to ensure your safety.
Attractions of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
December trekking to Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable experience. Despite the fact that it’s colder and might even snow, it offers several unusual experiences:
Exciting Snowy Trek: December brings snowfall, which amplifies the excitement of your adventure as you cross snow-covered portions of the trail.
Clear Skies: You have the best opportunity of seeing the magnificent mountains when the skies are clear.
Winter Wonderland: The scenery is changed into a charming winter setting that is perfect for pictures.
Less Trekkers: December is not the busiest month, thus there are less hikers on the trail. You may unwind and take in the quiet.
Amazing Mountain Views: The towering peaks are visible in all directions from Kala Patthar.
Cultural Festivals: The Sherpas celebrate a number of festivals throughout December. It’s possible that you will have the good fortune to observe or take part in these cultural activities.
Wildlife: Snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan pheasants should be on your radar.
Magnificent Mountain Views: The soaring peaks are visible in all directions from Kala Patthar.
Cultural Festivals: The Sherpas celebrate a number of festivals throughout December. It’s possible that you will have the good fortune to observe or take part in these cultural activities.
Wildlife: Snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan pheasants should be on your radar.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty in December
Because of the extreme cold and potential for snowfall in December, organizing an Everest Base Camp Trek might be challenging. But there are breathtaking vistas of the Alps thanks to the beautiful skies. Nonetheless, the trek is challenging due to the low temperatures. Much of the upper terrain, including Everest Base Camp, is usually covered in snow, which makes the path treacherous and challenging to travel. If you plan to go trekking in December, make sure you have grippy boots and warm clothing.
Moreover, the trail may close or flights to and from Lukla may have delays due to the swift changes in weather. The paths are less congested and the winter scenery is breathtaking in spite of these challenges.
Reaching the renowned base camp seems like a major victory. If you want to witness the Himalayas’ winter splendor and are ready for the cold, trekking to Everest Base Camp in December can be an amazing journey.
Reasons to Enjoy the EBC Trek in December
Enjoy the Peace
December is an excellent season to trek around Mount Everest because fewer people are on the trails. This implies that you can take in the magnificent Himalayan landscape alone, away from the throng.
Easy Accommodation
It is simpler to get lodging along the route in teahouses and lodges because there are less trekkers. You might even be able to get a better rate and have more flexibility in where you stay.
Cultural Fun
In December, the Sherpa communities in the area often celebrate cultural festivities. It’s possible that you’ll be able to see and take part in these festivities, which will make the trip even more special.
Clear Skies
December typically provides clear skies despite the cold. This implies that you’ll be able to witness some of the most breathtaking mountain vistas, especially of Mount Everest. Remember to pack your camera because the blue sky contrasts well with the snow-covered peaks!
Meet the Wildlife
The lower Everest region is home to a wide variety of wildlife. December hiking in the stunning scenery may expose musk deer, Himalayan pheasants, and other wildlife.
Winter Challenge
Trekking in December offers a special challenge if you’re an adventurer and want to test your abilities. There will be snowy portions of the track to navigate, which can be difficult but also incredibly gratifying.
Altitude Sickness and Safety During Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Because of the intense cold and snow, a December trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) requires additional preparation. This is a short to-do list to help you prepare.
When reaching Everest Base Camp, many hikers get altitude sickness, generally referred to as acute mountain sickness (AMS). Standing at roughly 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level, this place is incredibly high. Our body may find it difficult to adapt to the thinner, lower oxygen air at these elevations.
Quickly reaching high altitudes is one of the main causes of altitude sickness. When the body does not have enough time to adapt to reduced oxygen levels, AMS may develop. Regardless of age, gender, or fitness level, everyone can be impacted. On the other hand, susceptibility seems to be influenced by genetics. Symptoms like headaches, nausea, lightheadedness, exhaustion, and trouble breathing may arise from this.
Wrapping Up!
The December Everest Base Camp Trek is an amazing experience with unique rewards and challenges. Even though the winter months can be difficult, the snow-covered vistas are magnificent, the paths are less crowded, and arriving at base camp seems like a major accomplishment.
You can see the Himalayas in a different way, away from the masses, on this off-season adventure. December may be the best month for your incredible adventure if you want to find your inner power and experience the world from the top of the globe.
Carefully consider your surroundings, embrace the cold, and prepare to be enthralled with the splendors of the Everest region. Climb to the summit of Everest Base Camp in December to begin your experience!
