It is impossible to hide from the fact that Everest Base Camp is the most popular tourist destination in the Everest region. Each year thousands of travelers visit Nepal with the goal of reaching the base camp of the world's highest mountain: Mount Everest (8,848m/29,029ft). Because of this, it can get quite crowded at certain times of the year.
People often ask, “when is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek?" The right answer will depend on a certain extent on your plans and your personal preferences, as each person has their own preferences, likes and dislikes when it comes to traveling. One person’s opinion on the “best time” to travel in the Everest region may be completely different from someone else’s. Therefore, there may be a certain time of year that is better or worse on the basis of your preferences. The Everest Base Camp Trek can be done all year round, though the weather greatly varies as the season's change. Each season has its own beauties and challenges, as given below.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you are planning to trek Everest Base Camp or other trekking routes in Nepal. We can help you to manage your trip. Or you can directly call, WhatsApp, Viber, IMO at +977-98511 83278 (Ram)
Spring Season
Nepal’s spring season, from March to May, is the peak time for trekking. Daily rainfall declines significantly and the days become drier and brighter. This season is great for photos, good for trekking and generally considered the best time to travel EBC trek. During this season, the skies are clearer and the rainfall is minimal. The temperature is much warmer than it is in winter. The temperatures typically range from 25°C on sunny days to -15°C in the morning and night, particularly in areas above 4,000 meters. During this season, there's little probability of snow on the trail, especially later in the season. However, if you begin your trek right at the beginning of spring i.e. in early March, you might experience some light snow showers.
The clear spring air shows off the stunning landscape and the choppy sea of mountain peaks. There is always plenty of eye candy to gaze on. You'll find lots of color as you climb towards Everest Base Camp, as the rhododendrons (Nepal’s national flower) and other wildflowers are in full bloom.
April and May are the best times to attempt an ascent to the summit. You'll get a chance to meet the daring mountaineers on the base camp preparing for the most famous climb in the world. During this time, the weather is most likely to be steady and arid. It is more predictable and moderate. Because of this, the trail is at its busiest and hotels are at their capacity. I’ll leave you with one final thought: the spring season means that the trails are full of trekkers. For some, this means that you may come across some new friends, while others prefer a more secluded, quiet journey.
Reasons to visit
- The days are longer.
- The weather conditions are stable and you'll get the best mountain views.
- In comparison to autumn, there are fewer people on the trail.
Tips
- As this time is the peak season, it's better to do book accommodations and flights in advance.
- At the higher elevation, be sure to wear enough layers of clothes.
Summer Season
The summer season in Nepal is known as the rainy or monsoon season. It starts with the end of the spring season i.e. from June to August. During this time, early morning trekking offers cooler temperatures and better shade from the sun. Although it does rain quite often, most of the time it arrives later in the afternoon. Most of the hiking can be done in the morning, meaning that time spent on the trial while it rains can be minimized.
The most beautiful mountain views are often enjoyed in the morning after it rains. Also, the rainfall amounts will decrease as the altitude increases. This should ease any concerns you have about rain on base camp or Kala Patthar. In the summer, the temperature might range from 16°C on sunny days to 8°C in the mornings and nights in areas above 4,000 meters. Most trekkers tend to avoid Everest Base Camp during the monsoon season, as there is always the chance of heavy rainfall, slippery and muddy trails, and leeches. Despite this, you may find this time perfect as even the most popular route will offer you solitude, peace, and tranquillity.
Reason to visit
- The trekking trails and tea houses are less crowded.
- The average temperature, weather, and climate are good enough to see the mountain views and amazing scenery.
- You can enjoy the greenery of hills and valleys at a lower altitude.
Tips
- You need to pack the right gear: water-resistant boots, trousers, and a rain jacket.
- Your backpack should be protected with a built-in cover.
- Make sure that you need to set aside days for contingencies in case of flight delays caused by bad weather.
Autumn/Fall Season
After the monsoon passes and before the arrival of winter, the autumn season comes, lasting from September to November, and providing supreme trekking weather. For September up until December, the weather tends to be stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. The temperature might range from 20°C on sunny days to -10°C in the morning and night, in places above 4,000 meters.
Because the weather is so great, autumn is another peak time for trekking. The Everest trails are very popular and can be full of tourists. On the many popular routes such as Everest Base Camp with Cho-la pass Trekking or Gokyo Valley Trekking, there're tons of trekkers seeking to make it to base camp or take their chances of a peak climb. This dry season is the busiest time to visit this region, naturally due to the lack of rain and clearer skies.
In the autumn season, it lacks the beauty of flowers but still, the clear blue sky can be seen. Everywhere you look, you can have incredible mountain views surrounding you.
Reason to visit
- Days are warm and there is less chance of rainfall.
- You'll get fantastic views of snow-capped mountains.
- You'll also get a glimpse of the rich festivals and culture of the locals in this season. The famous Mani Rimdu festival is celebrated in October/November in the Everest region.
Tips
- During this season, days are quite short so you should get an early start.
- It's better to hire a guide to help with the advanced booking of accommodation and flight, as well as showing you around the mountain.
Winter Season
In Nepal, winter runs from December to February. The temperature is very cold but still, the weather is fairly stable and dry. You need to remember, though, that the coolness of the weather very much depends upon how high you want to trek.
In the Everest region, trekking during the winter can be a challenge, as it is very cold and there is lots of snow. This can cause issues at a higher altitude (from Tengboche and above). Also, many high altitude lodges are closed. During winter, the days are considerably shorter and it can be brutally cold at night. However, if you stay down in the valleys, the temperatures will remain fairly moderate.
It's hard to predict the weather conditions up in the Himalayas. In winter, the temperatures can range from 20°C to -15°C. Despite this, trekking the EBC is incredibly rewarding. If you go trekking in late December then you’ll get a chance to celebrate Christmas and New Year in the Himalayas, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. One final thought: make sure that while trekking in winter you always need to stay warm and dry in any conditions. It is necessary to have a guide during the winter, due to the uncertainty of weather conditions, which lodges are open/closed, etc. Send us an email or give us a call and we’d be more than happy to help.
Reason to visit
- Trails are very quiet during this season
- You might get discounts for accommodations.
- Crystal clear weather and snow-capped mountain panoramas.
Tips
- Days are much shorter so you need to start early.
- Many popular routes are closed during this period, it's better to hire the guide as they'll help you to trace the right path.
- Make sure to pack very good trekking gear, including warm layers to protect from the bitter cold.
Conclusion
So when is the best time to travel to Everest Base Camp Trek?
If you want dry days and don’t mind cold nights, go from October to December. If you can withstand the rain in exchange for less crowded trails, you should go between June to September. Generally, April and May are considered perfect times to visit as the days and nights are somewhat warm, and the hillsides are green with grasses and flowers. September or early October can also be a great time to visit to avoid the mid-summer crowds. During the winter season, Everest Base Camp Trek becomes a budget-friendly destination, as flights and accommodations get cheaper and you can get better quality services at a reasonable price.
Remember these are the Himalayas we are discussing. There is never 100% certainty about the weather. Even though on a perfectly clear blue-sky day, a sudden storm can sweep up and drop up snow on the trail. Try to keep this saying in your mind: “There is no such thing as poor weather, just poor clothing, and equipment.” So, you need to be always well prepared with the right trekking gear and equipment.
Finally, don't let the season stop you from going. If you're able to go anytime, the trail is open you'll have an amazing trip and life-long memories. I hope this article may help you to pick the best time to take on the Everest Base Camp Trek. And secondly, if you don't have enough time or worry about your fitness level we operate Everest base camp helicopter tours on a group sharing basis with affordable cost.
If you have any questions to ask feel free to contact us.
Happy Trekking!!!!
