If you have ever dreamed of walking through snow-covered Himalayan trails under crystal-clear skies, the Everest Base Camp trek in December might be your perfect adventure. While most people aim for spring or autumn, winter in the Everest region has its own magic, peaceful paths, breathtaking mountain views, and an authentic connection with the land.
But it’s also cold. Really cold. And the days are shorter, meaning you will need to plan and prepare carefully. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and why December might just become your favorite time to trek to the base of the world’s highest peak.
Table of Contents
Those who have been to Nepal more than once may not be surprised by the diversity of the country's seasons. But it can be challenging to understand for those who haven't had the chance.
Basanta Ritu ( Mid- March to Mid-May)
Grishma Ritu (Mid-May to Mid- July)
Barsha Ritu (Mid- July to Mid-September)
Sharad Ritu (Mid- September to Mid- November)
Hemanta Ritu (Mid-November to Mid-January)
Shishir Ritu (Mid- January to Mid-March)
In general, there are four distinct seasons in the world: spring, summer, fall, and winter. However, Nepal has six distinct seasons, including Basanta (Spring), Grishma (Early Summer), Barkha (Summer Monsoon), Sharad (Early Autumn), Hemanta (Late Autumn), and Shishir (Winter). The geology of this magnificent mountainous terrain has led to the development of these six different seasons. Cracking the different seasons of Nepal.
Best Season for Everest Base Camp Trekking
Most trekkers choose September and November to hike to Everest Base Camp because of the beautiful skies and stunning Himalayan views at this time. Trekking in December is considered the best season as every trekking route of the country is crowded with trekkers, both foreign tourists, and local Nepali trekkers. Due to the colder weather and increased likelihood of snowfall after November, this period is regarded as the off-season.
The start of the coldest month of the year is December which might extend through the end of January. You have to walk on this trek from low-altitude to high-altitude regions reaching 5,600 meters. Because of this, the Everest Base Camp Trek weather in December is completely dynamic. Every trip to Everest Base Camp begins with a beautiful flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Due to the high volume of visitors going during the peak season, getting tickets for flights to Lukla is quite challenging. Days must pass until you receive your tickets, but if you're going to Everest Base Camp in December, you'll have an easier time getting tickets.
Lower elevation places like Lukla, Phakding, Namche, and Tengboche see sunny, warm days and chilly, tolerably cold evenings. However, the days are mild and somewhat cold at higher altitude places like Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep, EBC, and Kala Patthar, but the nights are very cold and can exceed zero degrees.
Crowded Everest Base Camp Trail
Traveling to EBC in the winter has numerous advantages, not the least of which is that there are fewer people there to overcrowd the camp. Thousands of visitors flock to this major tourist destination in the autumn to catch a glimpse of the highest mountain in the world. Many people think that trekking to the Everest Region in the winter is extremely cold, therefore avoid going from December to February. They couldn't be more mistaken, as a journey in the winter is far more interesting and more thrilling than one in the autumn.
The majority of trekkers avoid their Mount Everest Base Camp Trek in December out of concern about bad weather, limited views, and scenery, poor lodging, etc. You can walk in the open in December without being bothered by other EBC Trekkers. Trekking on paths that are empty adds adventure and thrills to your journey that are not possible during high seasons. The crowds begin to thin out in December after the hectic months of October and November. While some teahouses close for the winter, and their owners relocate to Kathmandu. But at the locations that do remain open, finding a bed won't be a problem.
We also have our Helicopter Packages, where you can enjoy a birds-eye view of the majestic Mt. Everest and the other eight-thousand-meter Himalayas. The EBC offers different packages, ranging from one single day to 14 days, to visit the Everest Region. Check out the blog on What to Expect on our helicopter tour of the EBC.
December in the Everest region means crisp days and freezing nights. You will experience deep skies, endless blue, and the mercury drops fast once the sun dips behind the mountains. Here is what the weather generally looks like:
Location
Day Temp (°C)
Night Temp (°C)
Snowfall Chance
Lukla
10 to 12
0 to -2
Low–Moderate
Namche Bazaar
5 to 8
-5 to -7
Moderate
Tengboche
3 to 6
-8 to -10
Moderate
Dingboche
0 to 4
-10 to -12
Moderate–High
Lobuche
-2 to 2
-12 to -15
High
Gorak Shep
-5 to 0
-15 to -18
High
Everest BC
-6 to -2
-17 to -20
High
Benefits and Challenges of Trekking to EBC in December
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in December, you will experience a blend of both incredible rewards and some noticeable challenges. The off-season brings quiet trails, stunningly clear mountain views, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find during busier months. At the same time, winter conditions like freezing nights, icy paths, and limited services can test even experienced trekkers, making careful preparation essential.
Benefits
Fewer crowds: Trails and teahouses are quiet and no jostling for space.
Crystal-clear views: Dry winter air means less haze.
Peaceful atmosphere: Perfect for trekkers who value solitude.
Better deals: Some lodges offer discounts in the off-season.
Challenges
Extreme cold: Nights at higher camps are brutally cold.
Limited teahouses: Some close for the season, reducing choices.
Flight delays: Weather can disrupt Lukla flights.
Snow-covered trails: Extra effort required in icy conditions.
How Difficult is the EBC Trek in December?
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is never easy, and December adds its own set of challenges. You will have to face the cold temperatures, icy trails, and shorter daylight hours. These EBC difficulties make each day a bit more demanding than during the popular spring and autumn seasons.
Difficulty in December are:
Cold and freezing nights: Temperatures can drop well below -15°C at higher camps, which can make resting and recovery harder.
Icy and slippery trails: Snow and ice make paths more treacherous, so trekking poles and crampons are often necessary.
Shorter daylight hours: With only about 10 hours of daylight, you need to start early and pace your trekking carefully.
Physical stamina required: Winter trekking requires strong endurance and mental toughness, as carrying gear and dealing with cold can be exhausting.
Experience level matters: December is best suited for trekkers who have some high-altitude experience; beginners can attempt it, but must plan extra acclimatization and rest days.
Packing the right gear is absolutely important for a safe and comfortable Everest Base Camp trek in December. Winter in the Khumbu region is cold, with temperatures plunging far below freezing at higher altitudes, and trails can be icy or snowy. Having the proper clothing, footwear, and accessories will not only keep you warm but also make your trek much more enjoyable.
Footwear
Insulated, waterproof trekking boots for warmth and support.
Microspikes or crampons for icy and snowy trails.
Gaiters to prevent snow from entering boots.
Warm trekking socks, preferably wool or thermal.
Clothing Layers
Base layer: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.
Mid-layer: Fleece jackets or lightweight down vests for insulation.
Outer layer: Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants.
Layering allows you to adjust clothing for changing temperatures.
Warm Accessories
Thin inner gloves and insulated outer mittens.
Woolen hat, balaclava, and neck gaiter for head and face protection.
Thermal or woolen socks with liners to keep feet dry and warm.
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping bag rated to -20°C or lower.
Sleeping bag liner for extra warmth.
A compact insulating mat to prevent heat loss from the floor.
Other Essentials
Trekking poles for stability on snow and ice.
Headlamp with extra batteries for shorter daylight hours.
A wide-mouth water bottle to prevent freezing.
Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect from UV rays reflecting off snow.
Lip balm and moisturizer to prevent chapped lips and dry skin.
Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness Prevention
One of the biggest challenges of trekking to Everest Base Camp is dealing with the thin air at high altitude. In December, the cold can make things a little tougher. It is important to give your body enough time to adjust. You must trek at a slow and steady pace, along with planned acclimatization days. It can make all the difference in avoiding altitude sickness.
Practical tips for preventing altitude sickness:
Go slow and steady: You must go slowly so that your body can adjust the changing altitude and the weather.
Plan acclimatization days: You must spend extra nights in acclimatization hubs like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche so that you can rest and get prepared for next day trek.
Stay hydrated: Cold weather can trick you into drinking less, so keep sipping warm water or herbal tea throughout the day.
Know the warning signs: Watch for headaches, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath, and be ready to descend if symptoms get worse.
Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills: They can affect your breathing and slow your acclimatization process.
Accommodation and Food in December
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in December means you will experience quieter trails and fewer tourists. Winter also affects lodging and food options along the route. While some teahouses close for the season. The majority along the main EBC trail remain open. They offers basic comfort to winter trekkers. Planning ahead is key to ensuring you have a place to stay each night.
Accommodation:
Rooms are generally simple and unheated, except for common dining areas where a stove provides warmth.
Heating in teahouses usually comes from yak dung or wood stoves, lit in the evenings to make dining areas cozy.
Expect fewer beds available, so booking ahead is recommended for higher-altitude stops like Dingboche or Lobuche.
Food:
You will get the staples include dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and potatoes. It provides enough energy for cold winter trekking.
Winter menus may be slightly reduced due to limited supply, so plan to eat more frequently or carry small snacks.
Hot drinks like tea, coffee, or ginger tea are essential for warming up after long days on icy trails.
Permits Required
You’ll need:
TIMS Card – from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – available in Monjo or Kathmandu.
Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit – issued in Lukla or Monjo.
Getting to Everest Base Camp in December
Reaching the Everest region in December requires a bit of planning, as winter weather can affect travel options. Most trekkers start their journey with a flight to Lukla. Lukla is the gateway to the Everest Base Camp trek. But flights can be delayed or canceled due to snow, fog, or strong winds.
Travel tips for December:
Morning flights are best: Weather conditions are usually calmer early in the day, increasing your chances of flying on schedule.
Helicopter alternatives: If flights are canceled, helicopter services are available to Lukla, typically costing around $300–500 one way.
Plan buffer days: Always include at least one extra day in your itinerary to accommodate possible flight delays caused by winter weather.
Safety and Emergency Preparedness
December trekking to Everest Base Camp is a fulfilling experience. You need to exercise greater caution in the winter. You need to be ready for the cold weather, slippery paths, and isolated spots. You will enjoy the beauty of the season while traveling safely if you take a few wise precautions.
Key Safety Tips to Follow:
Protect against frostbite: Keep your fingers, toes, and face warm and dry with insulated gloves, thermal socks, and a good face covering.
Watch for slippery paths: Snow and ice can make trails tricky, so trekking poles and microspikes will give you better grip and stability.
Have the right insurance: Choose a travel insurance plan that includes high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies.
Share your itinerary: Always let your guide, lodge owner, or someone back home know your daily trekking plan for added safety.
Cultural and Scenic Highlights in December
December in the Everest region offers a completely different experience compared to when trekking is in its busy months. The villages, trails are everything made like a postcard with the snow around and the winter air that gets clear makes the mountains come even closer and more beautiful. You will feel the flavours of the warm Sherpa hospitality and peeks of the local winter traditions, which can turn into much more than a trek.
Highlights you can expect:
Snow-covered landscapes: Trails, rooftops, and pine forests dusted with fresh snow create an almost magical winter wonderland.
Crystal-clear mountain views: The dry winter air means you’ll often see Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and surrounding peaks without a single cloud.
Frozen waterfalls and streams: Sparkling ice formations along the trail add unique beauty you won’t see in warmer months.
Sherpa winter traditions: With fewer tourists around, you may be invited to join local gatherings or witness cultural customs in the villages.
Star-filled night skies: Long, cold nights mean some of the clearest stargazing you’ll ever experience. It is perfect for photography.
December Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary
A well-planned schedule guarantees your safety, enjoyment of the trip, and adequate time to take in the breathtaking winter scenery. Compared to busy seasons, the route is very peaceful. Making the most out of your Everest Base Camp requires careful planning.
Day 1: Fly to Lukla – Trek to Phakding Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar Day 3: Acclimatization in Namche – Hike to Everest View Hotel Day 4: Trek to Tengboche Day 5: Trek to Dingboche Day 6: Acclimatization in Dingboche – Hike to Nangkartshang Peak Day 7: Trek to Lobuche Day 8: Trek to Gorak Shep – Visit EBC Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar – Trek to Pheriche Day 10: Trek to Namche Day 11: Trek to Lukla Day 12: Fly back to Kathmandu
Conclusion
Every year, we welcome thousands of novice and expert trekkers from all over the world to Nepal. Although spring and fall are popular times for treks to the Himalayas, the real thrill is in the winter. We at Trekking Planner (P.) Ltd.has unique winter trekking packages.
So, if you're considering visiting Nepal during the winter, contact us immediately, and we'll give you our recommendations for the best packages.
Explore Nepal Trekking Planner's Everest Base Camp Trekking Packages:
Yes, the Everest Base Camp trail is open throughout the year, including December. While some teahouses close for the winter, there are still enough along the route to comfortably support trekkers. You’ll just need to plan your stops ahead to make sure you reach places with open accommodations.
How cold is Everest Base Camp in December?
The temperatures at the base camp of Everest can be around -6C during the daytime and they plunge down the moment the sun goes down. Night can be expected to produce the mercury at as low as negative seventeen degrees Celsius or even colder. Proper winter clothes, however, can turn this frosty air quite refreshing and the views simply breathtaking.
Is December good for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
December is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for peaceful trails and some of the clearest mountain views of the year. The flip side is that you’ll face colder temperatures and potentially more challenging trekking conditions. For experienced trekkers who enjoy solitude, it’s one of the most rewarding times to go.
Do teahouses have heating in winter?
Most teahouses heat their dining rooms in the evenings, usually with a stove fueled by wood or yak dung. Bedrooms, however, are typically unheated, so nights can get very cold. A high-quality sleeping bag and warm layers will keep you comfortable through the night.
