Best Time to Visit Everest Base Camp for Hiking | Month-by-Month Travel Guide
Climbing Everest Base Camp – A Month By Month Guide
Inside this article:
Choosing the perfect month to touch the feet of the majestic Everest is just as crucial as your physical prep—it can make or break your adventure! At a stunning altitude of 17,598 feet (5,364 mt), the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is a dream for many. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, knowing what each month brings weather-wise will help you plan better. Here’s a detailed month-by-month guide to help you pick the best time to tick off the Everest Base Camp trek on your adventure list!
Hiking Everest Base Camp In January
Season: Winter
Average Day Temperature: 39℉(4℃ )
Average Night Temperature: -13℉ (-25℃)
Key Points:
Peak of Winter: January is the heart of winter with cold days and frosty nights.
Fewer Crowds: Since winter is not a popular season for the EBC trek, you can enjoy quieter trails and the serenity of empty tea houses and flights. You can be the lone adventurer in a snowy Everest wonderland.
Weather Highlights: During the day, sunlight warms the region for about five to six hours, giving enough time for hiking. Nights are colder even in Lukla where the trek begins.
Off-season Advantages:
This off-season brings discounts on flights and lodging.
The mountains, cloaked in fresh snow, offer stunning views of frozen waterfalls and pristine landscapes.
If you’re prepared for an ultra-challenging hike, January promises a memorable snow-filled adventure.
Disadvantages:
The harsh winds and heavy snowfall can make the trek challenging.
Many tea houses remain closed, so accommodations might be limited.
Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are frequently canceled due to adverse weather conditions.
Carrying extra winter clothing adds to your backpack load.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in February
Season: Winter
Average Day Temperature: 43℉ (5℃)
Average Night Temperature: 14℉ (-10℃)
Key Points:
End of Winter: February marks the tail end of winter with slightly warmer temperatures than January.
Fewer Crowds: It’s still considered off-season and the crowds remain sparse, making this month ideal for those seeking solitude.
Weather Highlights: Daytimes are comparatively hot with good sunshine, not as pleasant as the summers.
Off-season Advantages:
Get discounts on accommodations and flights with complimentary services.
You can catch the festive spirit of Losar celebrated in February to ring in the Tibetan New Year.
Disadvantages:
Snow and wind can make the trails risky to climb and may require you to adjust your plans.
Flights to Lukla are frequently delayed, so it’s crucial to remain flexible.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in March
Season: Spring
Average Day Temperature: 59-68℉ (15-20℃)
Average Night Temperature: 23℉ (-5℃)
Key Points:
End of Winter: March ushers in the beginning of spring and marks the end of the harsh winter. The weather begins to warm up and the trails start to see more activity.
Crowds Arrive: March sets the stage for the Everest climbing season. You’ll encounter fellow hikers but the numbers are not overwhelming. The trails remain relatively peaceful and prices stay reasonable.
Weather Highlights: The conditions in March are favorable—snow begins to melt, rain is still weeks away, and the clear skies provide stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. The blooming greenery adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the landscape.
Peak Season Advantages:
As the snow melts, the views become even more breathtaking.
You can play Holi, the festival of colors celebrated in March.
Disadvantages:
As crowds increase, prices tend to rise and accommodations may become fully booked.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in April
Season: Spring
Average Day Temperature: (10-15℃) 50-59℉
Average Night Temperature: 30 to 41℉ (-1 to -5℃)
Key Points:
Peak Season: April sees the onset of spring when the snow has melted and the weather is neither too cold nor hot. It’s the perfect season to explore the Nepalese Himalayas filled with vibrant greenery, colorful meadows, and unique wildlife.
Higher Crowds: Spring draws mountain lovers from around the globe, making it the busiest time in the Everest region. The trails buzz with excitement as adventurers from all walks of life gather to embrace the magic of the Himalayas.
Weather Highlights: Weather boasts clear skies, warm daytime temperatures, and no precipitation.
Peak season advantages:
You’ll meet other trekkers on the same mission as you.
April offers some of the most spectacular sights of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam peaks and their surroundings.
It's also the season when the national flower of Nepal, the Rhododendron, is in full bloom with bursts of red, pink, and white.
After the quiet of winter, tea houses and lodges come alive, providing a variety of accommodations for every trekker.
Disadvantages:
Prices are high and tea houses get overbooked.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in May
Season: Spring
Average Day Temperature: 59-77℉ (15-25℃)
Average Night Temperature: 41-46℉ (5-8℃)
Key Points:
Peak Season: May is the month of summits and climbing triumphs as many adventurers achieve their goal of reaching the tallest peaks. This is the time with ideal conditions for mountaineers and trekkers alike.
Maximum Crowds: As the weather aligns perfectly with climbing needs, May draws climbers from all over the world, crowding the trails and Everest Base Camp. The region buzzes with energy and excitement.
Weather Highlights: May’s weather is a dream come true for outdoor explorers. With no signs of rain or snow, the trails are dry and well-paved. The climate is pleasant, with warm, longer days and cooler, shorter nights, creating the perfect conditions for hiking and sightseeing.
Peak Season Advantages:
Clear views of the world’s highest mountains with unforgettable sunsets and sunrises.
May also brings the unique opportunity to meet legendary figures in the mountaineering community. The Everest Base Camp transforms into a hub of the climbing world.
Scenic flights to Lukla and higher altitudes provide breathtaking aerial views.
Tengboche Monastery becomes a lively spot, as pilgrims gather, offering a chance to witness local traditions and culture.
Disadvantages:
Flights and accommodations are often fully booked far in advance, so making your plans early is essential.
The routes can feel busy and Everest Base Camp is bustling with thousands of campers.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in June
Season: Monsoon
Average Day Temperature: 60℉ (16℃)
Average Night Temperature: 41℉ (5℃)
Average Rainfall: 18 inches
Key Points:
Peak Season Ends: June marks the transition into the monsoon season, gradually driving visitors away with frequent rainfall in lower altitudes, especially around Lukla.
Fewer Crowds: The bustling trails of spring give way to quieter paths, signaling the end of peak trekking activity.
Weather Highlights: While June brings rain, it doesn’t entirely halt the opportunity to hike to Everest Base Camp. Rainfall usually sets in during the evenings, leaving the mornings sunny and clear for a few hours of hiking. Nights are colder at higher altitudes, reminding you to be prepared for varying temperatures.
Advantages:
The onset of the monsoon breathes life into the landscape with fresh greenery starting to sprout.
As an off-season period, June offers solitude on the hikes.
Lower visitor numbers also mean reduced costs. Accommodation and other services are more affordable with plenty of availability.
Disadvantages:
With fewer visitors, accommodations may be limited, especially in remote areas.
Paths become slippery and challenging to navigate.
The rains also bring insects, bugs, and mosquitoes. It's essential to carry insect repellent and waterproof clothing to keep yourself dry and protected.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in July
Season: Monsoon
Average Day Temperature: 59-62℉ (15-17℃)
Average Night Temperature: 25℉ (-4℃)
Average Rainfall: 18 inches
Key Points:
Not an Ideal Season: July is the peak of the monsoon season, characterized by heavy rains and hot, humid weather. The crowds that usually flock to the trails are nowhere to be found, making this one of the quietest months in the region.
Weather Highlights: The daytime heat and humidity coupled with frequent downpours, make hiking difficult. Nights remain cooler and the higher altitudes experience significantly less rainfall.
Advantages:
The trails are entirely free from crowds.
The fresh air, soothing breezes, and misty clouds add a magical touch to the scenery.
Accommodations are highly affordable with plenty of availability due to the lack of visitors. This is a great time to find good deals and enjoy comfortable stays.
You can also witness Saune Sankranti, a festival marking the start of the auspicious month of Shrawan or the onset of monsoons.
Disadvantages:
With fewer trekkers, many accommodations scale back their services and menu options.
The trails, slippery from constant rain, are hard to navigate. The reduced visibility due to mist and clouds poses a risk of injury.
The humidity and warmer daytime temperatures can make hiking uncomfortable, especially at lower elevations.
Insects, bugs, and leeches thrive in damp conditions, so insect repellent and waterproof clothing are essential to avoid discomfort.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in August
Season: Monsoon
Average Day Temperature: 68-77℉ (20-25℃)
Average Night Temperature: 50-59℉ (10-15℃)
Average Rainfall: 18 inches
Key Points:
End of Monsoon Season: August marks the end of the monsoon and hiking activity begins to pick up again. As the rain slowly subsides, trekkers start to return to the mountains.
Fewer Crowds: Fewer tourists are still around, making it a quieter time on the trails. The absence of large crowds offers a peaceful hiking experience amidst the rejuvenated landscapes.
Weather Highlights: At altitudes below 11,500 feet (3,500 mt) rainfall continues, but the weather on the trails is generally pleasant. Temperatures are warm during the day but cooler at higher elevations.
Advantages:
With the trails reopening after the monsoon, you'll see fewer people, allowing for a more tranquil hiking experience.
Accommodation prices are still reasonable as the crowds are yet to fully return.
The scenery is at its lushest with fresh flora and stunning greenery.
Disadvantages:
There are fewer people on the trails so it may feel a bit lonely.
Rainfall can still occur in lower altitudes, so it's important to be prepared for wet conditions.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in September
Season: Fall
Average Day Temperature: 50-68°F (10-20°C)
Average Night Temperature: 14-32°F (-10-0°C)
Key Points:
Best Season: Fall is the next best time to hike in the Everest region. After the monsoon, the trails are clear of mud and snow, and the weather is perfect—clear skies with no rain in sight.
High Crowds: As the peak climbing season begins, the number of visitors increases. You’ll notice more trekkers on the trails, and accommodations begin filling up faster as the month progresses.
Weather Highlights: The days have balanced temperatures but nights can be chillier. But overall, it’s a comfortable climate with very little rainfall.
Advantages:
The weather is stable and perfect for hiking. Even though there are more people, it’s still not as crowded as the busy spring months.
Accommodation prices are still reasonable and you’ll have no problem finding a place to stay.
The scenery is at its best with lush landscapes and breathtaking views of the diverse flora and fauna around the region.
September brings the Dashain festival, a grand 10-day celebration marking the victory of good over evil.
Disadvantages:
As the month goes on, accommodations start filling up quickly and the flights and trekking routes get busy.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in October
Season: Fall
Average Day Temperature: 53-60°F (12-16°C)
Average Night Temperature: 24 to 39℉ (-4 to 0℃)
Key Points:
Peak Season: October is one of the most popular months for trekking and climbing in the Nepal Himalayas, second only to May. The weather is perfect for summit attempts.
Busiest Month: This is the month when thousands of mountaineers and trekkers gather in the region, all aiming to reach the top of the world.
Weather Highlights: The weather is pleasant with days that aren’t too hot or too cold. It’s an ideal time to summit Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks, as the conditions are stable and clear.
Advantages:
It is a great time to meet world-renowned mountaineers.
The views are spectacular with majestic mountain panoramas all around.
It’s also a great time to experience some of Nepal’s most famous festivals. Tihar (or Deepawali), the festival of lights honors the victory of good over evil.
The Rimdu Mani Festival, lasting 15 days, celebrates Tibetan Buddhism and honors Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava.
Disadvantages:
Accommodations—tea houses and lodges—fill up quickly, and prices soar as demand increases.
Trails are busy.
Everest Base Camp is packed with people.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in November
Season: Fall
Average Day Temperature: 41-59℉ (5-15℃)
Average Night Temperature: 23℉ (-5℃)
Key Points:
Best Season: November marks the end of the perfect trekking season around Everest. As temperatures start to drop, the region begins to transition into winter. However, the weather is still favorable, offering some of the best views and unforgettable moments before the cold sets in.
High Crowds: While still part of the peak season, the crowds begin to thin out compared to October, offering a more peaceful hiking experience.
Weather Highlights: The weather is dry and pleasant—great for hiking. It's not as cold as winter, but temperatures are starting to drop, especially in the evenings.
Advantages:
The weather is stable, offering ideal conditions for trekking with fewer people on the trails.
You’ll get to enjoy the crisp, cool air while witnessing some of the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises over the mountains.
The peaceful atmosphere allows you to make the most of the season's last moments before winter settles in.
Disadvantages:
It can get quite chilly at higher altitudes, so be prepared with warm gear.
Hiking Everest Base Camp in December
Season: Winter
Average Day Temperature: 39℉ (4℃)
Average Night Temperature: -4 to -22℉ (-20 to -30℃)
Average Rainfall:
Key Points:
Off-Season: December marks the beginning of winter in the Everest region with temperatures dropping below freezing and snowfall becoming common at EBC. While it’s a more challenging time to trek due to the cold, it’s also a perfect opportunity for those seeking solitude and winter vistas.
Less Crowds: December is considered off-season, which means you’ll encounter fewer trekkers on the trails. This results in a more solitary hiking experience.
Weather Highlights: Precipitation is low, so the trails remain passable, but temperatures do drop, especially at higher altitudes. Lower regions don’t receive snowfall. While the cold can be a challenge, the snow-covered landscapes offer spectacular views that are worth the effort.
Advantages:
The challenge of navigating the snow and cold adds a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when completing your trek.
Accommodation prices tend to be lower during the off-season.
You can also experience the cultural richness of Nepal with festivals like Yomari Punhi and Undhauli Parva, which celebrate the harvest and the arrival of winter.
Disadvantages:
Nights at higher altitudes can become extremely cold, so be prepared with warm clothing to stay comfortable.
Fresh snow can make the trails more difficult to navigate, requiring extra care and preparation.
Why should you book your Everest Base Camp adventure with AdventureTripr?
At AdventureTripr, we plan your EBC trek around the best weather conditions to ensure an unforgettable experience. We maintain constant communication with our local operators and guides, who provide us with real-time updates about the weather. This allows us to schedule your trek within the ideal hiking windows, so you can make the most of your EBC adventure. We also keep you informed before your hike. During the trek, our vetted operators, who are experts in navigating Everest's climates, take all necessary precautions in case of bad weather. Explore our Everest Base Camp tour package for an unforgettable trekking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question 1: What is the best time for EBC hiking? Answer 1: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times for hiking EBC, offering ideal weather and clear skies. However, if you're looking to avoid the crowds and higher prices, the off-season months can also be a good option.
Question 2: How often are flights delayed due to weather conditions? Answer 2: Flights to Lukla from Kathmandu are often delayed or canceled due to extreme weather, especially during the winter and rainy seasons. It's always a good idea to stay informed and be flexible with your travel plans.
Question 3: When is the rainy season? Answer 3: The rainy season in Nepal typically lasts from mid-June to the end of August.
Question 4: Which months should be avoided for hiking EBC? Answer 4: It's best to avoid the peak monsoon season (July and August) and the peak winter months (December, January, and mid-February). These months bring harsh weather conditions, making the trek more challenging unless you're prepared for an extreme experience.
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