If you are someone who loves trekking in the fully snow-covered wilderness then Everest Base Camp trek in December is ideal for you.
December is the winter month of the year and less preferred month for trekking in Nepal. Nevertheless, it promises clear views of the Himalayas and adds a great thrill to your journey.
The views of Mount Everest and outlandish vegetation in complete solitude are what you can experience during the trek to EBC in December.
Due to the freezing cold, only a few trekkers undertake this adventure. So, Everest Base Camp Trek in December is going to be a peaceful trek for the true adventure seekers.
During December, the temperature in Everest Base Camp goes below zero degrees. However, with the right preparation, trekking to EBC is doable and achievable.
The perks of trekking to EBC in December are the amazing view of snow-covered mountains, frozen glaciers, rivers, and icefalls.
Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
- A thrilling and adventurous journey to Everest Base Camp Trek.
- Clear and cloudless skies with an amazing view of the Mount Everest.
- Witness the lifestyle and culture of the Sherpas during the extreme winter.
- Spectacular view the other mountains such as Thamserku, Lobuche, Cho-Oyu, Nuptse, Lhotse, etc.
- Stunning view of the semi-frozen glacial lakes.
- Enjoy the beauty of nature in the Everest Region, all covered in snow.
Weather During Everest Base Camp Trek in December
The weather at Everest Base Camp during December is freezing cold at night and in the mornings.
At night the minimum temperature goes down to -14-degree Celsius. And the maximum temperature during daytime ranges from 15 to 20-degree Celsius. The daytime is quite bearable.
The average temperature in EBC during December will be generally around 4-degree Celsius.
Also, it doesn’t rain in December. However, it could snow at high altitudes. The average precipitation in December is 3mm. That means the chances of cloud covering mountains are very low.
Even though the morning and nights are freezing cold, you can enjoy pleasant weather during the daytime. But you should not forget to pack proper winter gear and warm thermals for your long trip to EBC.
Why Everest Base Camp Trek in December?
There are many perks of trekking in Nepal in December. And trek to EBC in December is no exception. Some reasons to trek to EBC in December are because of the
Low Precipitation
Everest Region experiences low precipitation during December. It means you have the least chance of facing cloudy days. December is a dry time of the year so you can walk in trails free of rain and bugs.
Wonderful Views
Despite the fact of freezing cold, there will be no compromise with views of amazing Himalayas during December.
The skies are crystal clear with the sharp visibility offering the wonderful views of the Everest Region. The stunning views of the snow-capped mountains is a sight to cherish.
Peaceful Trails
December is the off-season for trekking to Everest Region. The trail which gets overcrowded in peak seasons is quite peaceful in this month.
So, If you love to trek in a quiet environment then, trekking to EBC in December is perfect for you. Furthermore, you can enjoy the complete wilderness of the surrounding as well as encounter the perfect winter world.
More Choices for Accommodations
During this time, you will find the lodges and tea houses less crowded. You need not bargain for prices and cozy beds.
You will have easy accommodations and meals at cheaper prices than in peak seasons. Also, you do not have to struggle for the hot showers. You will get better facilities even without any complaints.
Easy and Cheap Flights
There is less inflow of tourists during December. This means you will easily get Kathmandu to Lukla flight tickets at reasonable prices. But flight delays or cancellations may occur in cases of cloudy weather.
Challenges of Trekking to EBC during December
Altitude Sickness
Mount Everest stands on an elevation of 8,848 meters, with its Base Camp on 5,380 meters. In any trek that is over 3,000 meters, there is the possibility of altitude sickness.
The major challenge that occurs while trekking to high altitudes is altitude sickness. Especially, in December- the coldest month in the Everest Region, it can go worse as well.
During these hard times, you need to be very careful because it could get severe.
The key to trekking to EBC in December is to go slow and get proper rest on the way. So make sure your itinerary has enough time for proper rest and acclimatization.
Have knowledge about the symptoms of altitude sickness, its precautions, and treatments. It is the best preventive measure.
Length
The total trekking distance from Lukla to Everest Base Camp is approximately 138 km. You need to walk through steep, rocky land for 6-7 hours a day. It is quite challenging.
While in December, it becomes tougher to conquer the Everest Base Camp Trek as the trails are all filled with snow and wilderness.
Besides these difficulties, with the proper precaution, trekking to EBC in December can be attainable.
Weather
In December, the weather is freezing cold. Trekking to EBC in December might be tricky due to extreme cold temperatures up in the mountains.
The temperature can go as low as -25 degrees. In addition, some trails are also closed for trekking due to snowfall in these months.
Alternatives Trek to Everest Base Camp During December
Gokyo Valley Trek
It is one of the exotic and adventurous trekking to the Everest Region. It is a less visited area and is completely off-beaten track. And, December is a suitable time for this trek.
On this trek, you get to witness six freshwater lakes of the Gokyo valley along with multiple glacial lakes. You will also pass through the world’s biggest ice glacier – the Ngozumpa glacier.
You will also get the stunning views of Mount Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
All in all, you can enjoy the quiet trails exploring the Sherpa settlements and the beautiful Everest region.
Khumbu Valley Trek
Khumbu Valley Trek offers the majestic view of the majestic Mount Everest. It also offers stunning views of other mountains such as Nuptse, Lhotse, Twachee, Kwangde, and Kangtega.
On this trek, you can witness the Himalayan Sherpa culture and their traditions. You get a chance to walk to the Tengboche monastery (3,900 meters).
Also, you can stroll around Sagarmatha National Park. The diverse Himalayan flora and fauna will amaze you.
In December, you can explore the snowy surroundings with the warm hospitality of the local people.
Everest Panorama Trek
If you do not have enough time or the cold winters are just not for you, the Everest Panorama Trek is perfect for you.
On this trek, you can explore the beautiful villages of the Everest region. And also witness Mount Everest within a short period of time.
This trek follows Lukla- Phakding- Namche Bazaar- Tengboche route.
Some Useful Tips for Everest Base Camp in December
- The trail to Everest Base Camp is quite challenging in December. So, always trek in groups or with your guide.
- The trails can be wet and slippery due to the snow. Thus, bring a good pair of trekking boots and warm clothing gears. Do not underestimate your gear. They are a necessity.
- Always listen and follow your guide for your safety. They are professionals who are familiar with everything about the trek
- Trekking in winter requires more gears and equipment. So, it is highly recommended to hire a porter to share the load. Hence the luggage can weigh more which can be a trouble to carry especially in the snow.
- Stay hydrated. Since December is a cold month, you may miss out on drinking water. Carry a flask. That way you can take warm water.
- Take proper rest for acclimatization and go slow. Do not rush.
- Keep extra days in case of flight delays due to bad weather.
FAQs
How hard is it to find accommodation in the Everest region in December?
Accommodation is quite easy to find in the Everest region in December. Most tea houses and hotels are empty as this is not the peak trekking season. Also, they will provide you with all the warmth you need.
Is it necessary to hire a guide for the EBC trek in December?
Guides are not only important for the EBC trek in December but all year round. You can choose from a variety of travel guides to go along the trek. The fact that there might be several trekking trails closed in December. Under such a situation, guides can be very helpful.
Is travel insurance recommended while trekking in the Everest region in December?
Travel Insurance is highly recommended all year round. It is a great way of getting immediate relief if you struck with altitude sickness along the way. Or, your belongings are being stolen.
You never know when you might bump into some problems while you are on your journey. Getting travel insurance for the EBC trek is one of the many ways of making your trip risk free.
Conclusion
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in December is possible and absolutely enjoyable too. You can enjoy the perfect winter wonderland in the snowy Everest Region.
Everest Base Camp witness very few trekkers during December. So, you do not need to worry about accommodation, food, or services during this time. Hence, it is also an excellent time for those who enjoy a peaceful and silent trail.
But make sure you carry the necessary equipment and winter gear for the trek. Plus, always trek under proper guidance and with preparation.
If you need any information regarding Everest Base Camp Trek or have any queries. Please feel free to contact us.
