Everest Base Camp Trek in December

Trekking in the Everest region in December is a rewarding escape from the everyday hustles. Everest Base Camp trek in December is ideal for the adventure seekers as well as for people seeking for a peaceful trek.

Everest Base Camp trekking trail in December is serene and peaceful. Most parts of the region wear the blankets of snow during December. Such heavenly view leaves plenty of trekkers asking for more.

Many people presuppose that Everest Base Camp during December gets very cold and is undoable. However, even though the first is true that it does get very cold but the second perception is absolutely false. With the right preparation, trekking to the Everest Base Camp in December may be the best way to see nature at its finest.

Everest Base Camp Weather in December

December is the beginning of winter in Nepal. The temperature starts dropping and even reaches below freezing. And, Everest being a mountainous region gets even colder.

The weather is quite cold from the Lukla airport itself with the average temperature of 4-degree Celsius. As you ascend to Namche the average temperature falls to about 0-degree Celsius.

The temperature then drops to below freezing at Dingboche with an average temperature of -5 degree Celsius. It gets colder from here with an average temperature of Lobuche at -7.5 degrees and that of Gorak shep at – 9-degree Celsius.

Despite the cold, you do not have to worry about the rain, leeches, and slippery trails while trekking during this time of the year. It is a dry month with clear weather and sharp visibility.

The View during Everest Base Camp Trek in December

The view from the plane before you land at the Lukla airport is breathtaking. The Emerald Mountains covered in snow is spectacular. It is a trailer to the mystical journey you await.

Dry and brown leaves falling off the trees present an amazing specter of color and reminds you of the fall that just passed by.

As soon as you land, the freshness and the chill of the place will welcome you. It is a feeling very difficult to narrate, experience speaks best. Though you might face a foggy view, the environment and the humble locals will make it up to you.

The fog clears up by the day and you can finally enjoy the crisp view. The visibility should be excellent in December. The Everest Base Camp trek in December in an adventurous experience.

Accommodation during December

Everest Base Camp trek in December is an ideal time to travel. During the peak season (September to November) the place is a bit crowded. This could be quite a drag getting yourself accommodated in a comfortable place. However, this is not so during December.

The offseason (December- February) is quite light with few trekkers. This works just great for trekkers who enjoy the chill and the thrill of December weather.

The prices for rooms as well as food and other accommodations get less expensive. And many hotels will still be open. So, you will have options to choose from.

In addition, it is always great to enjoy some peaceful time too. That too when you have nature in form of you to appreciate and enjoy.

Difficulty

The difficulty level is a crucial factor during the trek. You need to consider it especially when you attempt to reach an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 ft) in winter.

The temperature should not contribute to making your treks a difficult one. You will have to find ways to keep yourself unaffected. Problems life frostbite, avalanches, blocked roads are a possibility.

You can tackle such situations by training your body to cold weather and working with layers of clothes. Stay close to the group and try not to walk ahead or behind. A local guide is best when finding shortcuts or alternate route, in case. They know the place well.

Be sure to carry sleeping bags for the tea houses. They will definitely provide blankets and will help you with extras but take your own, just in case. For sure Everest Base Camp trek in December is difficult than in spring or autumn. But, with the right preparations, you should be fine.

Also, you can choose to take a helicopter ride from EBC if it is within your budget. This way you will only trek your way to the EBC, then take a smooth ride back to Lukla.

Recommended trekking trails to EBC

Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek

The oldest and most traditional trekking route Jiri to Everest Base Camp trekking route. It is the same route used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa.

This trekking is ideal if you are on the lookout for a less crowded trekking route.

Mount Gaurishanker, Mount Kwangde, Mount Twache, Mount Nuptse, Mount Lhotse, Mount Amadablam, Mount Thamserku and the majestic Mount Everest are some of the peaks seen from this route. The views are quite stunning in winter.

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake

The Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake combines the two trekking routes. The trek takes you to the Chola Pass and up to see the majestic Gokyo Lake among many other lakes.

This trekking route is perfect for experienced trekkers as it is one of the longer ones. This trail offers magnificent views of Majestic Himalayas including, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and many more.

Everest Base Camp and Helicopter Ride Back

The Everest Base Camp trek and Helicopter ride back is an ideal trek for those who have a time constraint on their hands. This short trek provides the same adventurous trek to the Everest Base Camp and a relaxing Helicopter ride back to Namche. This is further connected with a flight back to Kathmandu.

You will be able to see the magnificent view of the landscapes and the breathtaking views of the mountains on this adventure.

Packing list for Everest Base Camp Trek in December

The packing for Everest Base Camp trek in December is one of the most important aspects to keep in mind. Because the things you pack will surely help to make your trek more enjoyable.

Here is a guideline to what you should not miss out while packing for December. Do consider a detailed packing guide for Everest Base Camp trek for an in-depth idea of the list.

Clothing

Base layer

The weather is bound to be very cold. This will be true especially at the higher altitudes. You should bring fitting and warm thermal wear for this. You may not need them at the beginning or end of the trek. But in the mountains, they will be key to keeping you warm.

• At least 2 pairs of upper and lower thermals.

Insulating layer

This layer will help to insulate your body heat and protect you from the cold. It is typically made out of fleece.

• 1 pair of fleece lined jacket
• 1 pair of fleece lined trousers.

Outer layer

This layer will protect you from the fast winds of the mountain winds which can reach up to 10 km/hr at times. There is also chances of rainfall or snowfall and this layer will protect you from these elements as well.

• 1 pair of thick insulating jacket
• 1 pair of rain jacket and trousers

General trekking essentials

These are the general trekking essentials that you can carry while trekking to the Everest Base Camp especially in December.

• Winter Trekking Trousers (Minimum 2 pairs)
• Trekking shirts( both long sleeved and short sleeved)

-3 long sleeved

-2 short sleeved

• Warm Caps and ear muffs
• Gloves

-Inner warm layer

-Outer insulating layer (waterproof)

• Hiking boots
• Socks

-Warm inner layer

-Insulating outer layer

These are just some of the essentials that you will need especially while trekking to Everest Base Camp especially in December.

Conclusion

The Everest Base Camp in December is not only doable but absolutely enjoyable. With the right gear, preparation, and a strong mindset, it is an amazing experience. Not to mention the amazing deals that you get with flights and while looking for accommodation.

Everest Base Camp is beautiful all year round and provides an experience of a lifetime. It has picturesque views in the winters and December best is the best winter month to be there.

If you want to know more about the Everest Base Camp or have any queries about it. Do feel free to contact us at any time.