Everest Base Camp Trek in December

The feeling of Base Camp Trekking in December is a special kind of feeling all together. Crowds generally flock to the Himalayas during summer, and since you will be there during so called “off season” you will be enjoying the beauty of the peak in a very personal way. There are mountains looming high and white all around you but the terrain looks as if it belongs to you alone.

The climate is quite fresh and pollution is near to ni. The clouds take time to display their best color which is blue. One of the rare times of the year when the mountains are even more impressive as not many people are on the trek. You are alone in peace, not something that can be as easily experienced in “seasonal” months.

Mount Everest Trek in December attracts many adventurers with their quests. Yes, of course, it will be cold, but along with the freezing temperature which increases with altitude there’s the thrill for those that prepare adequately for it.

It is suggested to visit the first half of the month though. After the 15th, the weather can be quite intolerable. After mid December, it can turn really, really nasty. Not the best time for a walk. Not much fun either. That is why those who plan to have a comfortable trek should start and end it in early December.

Highlights if Trekking to Everest Base Camp in December

• You will get to enjoy the no hordes of tourists clogging up these beautiful trails.
• You will experience piercingly clear sky, providing the best and vantage point view of Mount Everest and Himalayas.
• You will get a sight of a clear skyline and mountains with tops covered in snow that are much brighter and sharper than “on season”.
• You will enjoy the view of frozen lakes and rivers, mainly in the altitude of Lobuche and Gorak Shep.
• You will see many snowy villages and lands, everything looking like a fairy tale winter outing.
• The challenge of trekking in a tough winter environment makes your adventure even more adventurous.
• You will find teahouses more comfortable without many fellow trekkers around and evenings will be less noisy as well.
• Opportunities to personally interact with the local Sherpa people.
• You will enjoy the quiet, isolated place, guaranteeing moments to get in touch with the natural surroundings.

Weather Conditions to mind in December

Mount Everest Trek in December, has a climate that can really either make or break your experience. Even though it is colder in winter than in the autumn, the good news is that the skies tend to be more transparent. There are still possibilities afterward, but for the chance to see some of the clearer views of the mountains, it is worth the cold earlier in the month, particularly towards the first half of December.

Temperatures at Lower Altitudes (Lukla to Namche Bazaar)

Lukla is around 2,860 meters high and Namche Bazaar is 3,440 meters high and in those areas during the day it is usually between 5°C and 10°C (41°F and 50°F).

These temperatures sound relatively comfortable but let the night fall, you feel the blistering cold.

During the night the temperature can fall between -5°C and -10°C (23°F and 14°F) after the sun sets. Nevertheless, at all times when the climbers are properly equipped with necessary clothes and accessories, it is suitable for trekking during the daylight hours.

Temperature at Higher Altitudes (Tengboche to Everest Base Camp)

What is more, the higher you go, especially if you are proceeding further than Tengboche at 3,860m, the cold really starts to bite.

While trekking in daytime at places like Lobuche (4,940 meters) and Gorak Shep (5,164 meters), temperature can drop as low as -5°C (23°F) at times, and at night, you will face average temperatures between -15°C to -20°C (5°F to -4°F) at many places. Wind chill provides extra sting around the Everest Base Camp or even colder depending on the gusts.

Snowfall and Its Impact on the Trek

Early December usually has dry weather with only occasionally light snow, but it’s best to be prepared for snow, particularly at higher elevations. The trails can be harder to cut through if they become covered with a lot of snow, with the icy patches causing extra complications.

It’s true that the snow makes the area beautiful in a completely different way. Not to mention, the frozen lakes, the white blanket over the valleys and the absolute quietness of it all make for a surreal experience walking.

Most people do not want to take their trek past mid December, as by this time heavier snowfall is possible. Flights out and into Lukla are more likely to be canceled due to poor weather in the later hours, or trails unsafe to pass.

In short, early December is when you’ll catch the best of both worlds, manageable cold, with only a light dusting of snow to help you appreciate the beauty of the Himalayas, and stunning mountain views. By mid December though, the cold plus potential snow storms make the trek much tougher, so as winter approaches it’s wise to end your adventure early.

Challenges of Everest Base Camp Trek in December

Harsh Cold Temperatures and How to Cope with Them

Cold, however, is definitely the biggest challenge to Everest Base Camp Trek in December trekking. During the night temperatures can dip as low as – 20°C (–4°F) or even lower at higher altitudes.

Temperatures fall below freezing at altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) during the day, which leave climbers exposed to the risk of having their toes and fingers numb before they have warmed up. The winds, especially if you are at Gorak Shep or Kala Patthar, can make you feel a lot colder.

It is necessary to prepare in order to withstand these temperatures. Layer and stay warm. A moisture wicking base layer, insulating mid layer (like down or fleece), and waterproof, windproof outer shell to protect against wind chill are all part of this.

A good sleeping bag that rates to -20°C or below is a must if you want to stay warm when sleeping, since most teahouses don’t provide any heating in the bedrooms.

Keeping yourself well hydrated and fueled with energy rich foods will help to maintain body warmth, while something as simple as wearing a warm hat, gloves, and thick socks is key to preventing frostbite. Sweating can build up moisture in your clothing, and chills are a real possibility, so frequent breaks to adjust layers are important.

Shorter Daylight Hours and Trekking Planning

Nepal’s short daylight hours of about 10 hours per day start in December. The sun typically rises around 6:30 and goes down by 4:30 PM, so the time for trekking is quite limited. So it requires careful planning to be able to reach your next point by the time it gets dark, otherwise you’ll be trekking through unknown areas in the dark, which can be dangerous because trails can be icy and visibility is low.

Making the most of the daylight is very essential for managing the short days, so it’s advisable to start early when it is still light. Use this as a plan to affect your arrival at another teahouse by mid afternoon to avoid the late night on the trail.

The trek itself isn’t much longer than usual, but the reduced daylight means keeping time is key. Also, in those shorter days temperatures also drop very fast after the sun sets, which adds up to make you want to do the day’s trek as long as you can, while it’s still light.

Trail Conditions (Ice, Snow, and Potential Hazards)

However, the trails become more difficult to walk through at higher altitude and in December, because of snow and ice. Below 4,000 meters you might encounter some snow free areas (in early December) but there will be icy paths and snow covered sections as you do get to the higher parts.

On steep, or narrow sections, ice on the trails increases the risk of slipping. Microspikes or crampons on hiking boots give you better grip on icy surfaces. They are strongly encouraged. Opt to trekking poles for a more stable and balanced ride. Snow and ice slows you down, be cautious and walk slow.

Snow may obscure the markings on the trail making it harder to find your way. Trekking in December is only advised with an experienced guide who is acquainted with winter routes and the hazards it comes with. They will help you with any possible dangerous areas.

What to Pack for Everest Base Camp in December

Staying Warm & Cozy

1. A good warm jacket, trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
2. Super warm sleeping bag, teahouses can get chilly at night
3. Comfy thermal underwear, both top and bottom
4. Mid-layer (fleece or puffy jacket), for when it gets extra cold
5. Rain jacket and pants – nobody likes being wet and cold!

Feet & Legs

• Sturdy, warm boots, your feet are your best friends on the trail
• Microspikes, for those slippery bits (better safe than sorry!)
• Some good trekking poles, they’re like extra legs when you need them
• Thick, cozy socks. Happy feet = happy hiker

Head & Hands

• Warm hat, keep that noggin toasty
• Good gloves, frozen fingers are no fun
• Neck warmer or face cover, for when the wind tries to bite
• It can be super bright up.

Backpack Essentials

• Decent sized backpack (40-50L) with rain cover.
• Water bottles (insulated if possible), staying hydrated is key.
• Some way to make water safe to drink, filter or tablets.
• Lots of Snacks. Hiking makes you hungry.
• Headlamp, for early starts or late finishes.
• Basic first-aid stuff, for obvious reasons.
• Hand/foot warmers, little packets of joy when it’s freezing.
• Power bank to keep your phone alive for all those photos.
• Quick dry towel and basic toiletries, staying fresh(ish) on the trail.

Don’t Forget

• Sunscreen and lip balm, the sun can be sneaky at altitude.
• Camera, you’ll want to remember this beauty.

Pro Tips

1. Layer up, it’s better to have lots of layers you can take on/off then to constantly dig up your bag. With that being said, make sure to pack absolute need in comfortable and reachable places.
2. Test your gear before the big trip
3. Don’t overpack, you’ll have to carry it all.

Accommodation and Lodging in December

1. Since tea houses stay open in December, but fewer than during peak seasons, the options, as you go up, are fewer.
2. Most bedrooms are unheated, and you can expect limited heating, only in the dining area with a stove.
3. Because of cold rooms at night, your sleeping bag and layers of clothing will be important for warmth while you sleep.
4. They have thin walls and batting on the walls, minimal insulation, they are not very comfortable, but they do provide a means of resting.
5. There’s not much in the way of hot showers, and certainly not at higher altitudes, so you should expect limited access to warmth in bathrooms.
6. Warm, communal dining areas are used to both prepare and eat meals, and for socializing in the evening in the warmth.
7. In winter when there are limited supplies, most food items are simple, such as dal bhat, soup and noodles.
8. In December, fewer lodges are operational so it’s wise to book teahouses in advance or have a guide arrange accommodations so you do not walk in.
9. The experience will be rustic, but don’t expect luxury, you’ll be ok with basic comfort and sustenance for your trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek in December tracking rotes | 14-Day Itinerary

While the classic Everest Base Camp Trek in December takes a similar route practically year round, it’s essential to allow for longer, with added time for acclimatization, and shorter days in December. The 14 day itinerary balances acclimatization, safety and all the adventure of trekking one of the world’s most iconic routes in winter.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and City Exploration

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,345 meters

You’ll arrive in Kathmandu where you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest is then yours for the day to explore the city, shop for any last minute gear or just rest. Cool weather in December makes Kathmandu a great place to sightsee, like Mountains at Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Boudhanath Stupa.

Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,345 meters

Lukla Elevation: 2,800 meters

Phakding Elevation: 2,640 meters

Elevation Gain (Kathmandu to Lukla): 1,455 meters

Elevation Loss (Lukla to Phakding): 160 meters

Head to Lukla, an exhilarating flight itself with an amazing view of the Himalayas. In Lukla you start trekking through the Dudh Koshi Valley on a small run to Phakding. Today’s trek is easy enough to adjust to the altitude.

Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Phakding Elevation: 2,640 meters

Namche Bazaar Elevation: 3,440 meters

Elevation Gain: 800 meters

You will be crossing downstream of Dudh Kuslimi River viewing several large, beautiful, decorated with prayer flags on suspension bridges. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the steep ascent up to Namche Bazaar begins. You will catch your first glimpses of Everest along the way.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar Elevation: 3,440 meters

Take the day and acclimatize to the altitude. To get a good, wide, sweeping view over Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, you can take an upward short walk to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 meters). Or, go to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa town where you’ll get to rub elbows with everyone or visit neighboring villages like Khumjung and Khunde.

Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche

Namche Bazaar Elevation: 3,440 meters

Tyangboche Elevation: 3,867 meters

Elevation Gain: 427 meters

It passes through pine forests and ascends up to spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam and Lhotse. The famous Tyangboche Monastery, which trekkers can attend prayer ceremonies at, is the home of Tyangboche. In December, the monastery, caught in the snow, looks especially beautiful against those snowy peaks.

Day 6: Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche

Tyangboche Elevation: 3,867 meters

Dingboche Elevation: 4,260 meters

Elevation Gain: 393 meters

Crossing Imja Khola River, set off on a trek through mountainous meadows to Dingboche. The higher you ascend, the thinner air becomes, but the views of Ama Dablam, Lhostse, and other peaks are awe inspiring. The windswept fields and stone walls, protecting crops from cold winds surround Dingboche.

Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche

Dingboche Elevation: 4,260 meters

Lobuche Elevation: 4,930 meters

Elevation Gain: 670 meters

Today’s route follows the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Memorials to climbers who died on Everest stand near the Thukla Pass you’ll pass. It then climbs to Lobuche, a village with great views of Nuptse, Pumori and other peaks.

Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep

Lobuche Elevation: 4,930 meters

Gorakshep Elevation: 5,180 meters

Everest Base Camp Elevation: 5,364 meters

Elevation Gain (Lobuche to Gorakshep): 250 meters

Elevation Gain (Gorakshep to Base Camp): 184 meters

It’s one of the most thrilling days of the trek. Trekk to Gorakshep, the last town for Everest Base camp where you have accommodation. Then from there you would proceed on to Everest Base Camp via the Khumbu Glacier. In fact, the area is often blanketed in snow in December, giving it an alien beauty. Move up to Gorakshep for the night and then spend time at Base Camp.

Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Pheriche

Gorakshep Elevation: 5,180 meters

Kala Patthar Elevation: 5,545 meters

Pheriche Elevation: 4,243 meters

Elevation Gain (Gorakshep to Kala Patthar): 365 meters

Elevation Loss (Kala Patthar to Pheriche): 1,302 meters

For the best views of Everest especially at sunrise, an early morning hike to Kala Patthar is a must. This is your highest point of the trek at 5,545 meters. When you can take in the impressive views, pull down to Pheriche, a small settlement where you can get some well earned rest after several days of high altitude trekking.

Day 10: Trek from Pheriche to Tyangboche

Pheriche Elevation: 4,243 meters

Tyangboche Elevation: 3,867 meters

Elevation Loss: 376 meters

Retrace your steps from Pheriche to Tyangboche, along high mountain terrain and through Imja Khola Valley. It’s a much more relaxed day, but the views are no less spectacular, and the route for the most part is downhill.

Day 11: Trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar

Tyangboche Elevation: 3,867 meters

Namche Bazaar Elevation: 3,440 meters

Elevation Loss: 427 meters

From Tyangboche it’s easy to descend to the warmer conditions of Namche Bazaar and familiar trails. But Namche Bazaar’s lively atmosphere always feels welcoming after a few days in those higher altitudes.

Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Namche Bazaar Elevation: 3,440 meters

Lukla Elevation: 2,800 meters

Elevation Loss: 640 meters

When you’re back on the trek you make your way back to Lukla, crossing suspension bridges and passing through forests along the way. Now is your last view of the mountains before you party to celebrate your trek’s completion in Lukla.

Day 13: Flight Back to Kathmandu

Lukla Elevation: 2,800 meters

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,345 meters

Elevation Loss: 1,455 meters

A morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. After you arrive in Kathmandu you will have the time to relax, start exploring the city or looking for some souvenirs. At a farewell dinner reflect back on your amazing travel.

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport, and you will be on your way back home from Everest Base Camp.

Physical Preparation and Fitness for a December Trek

Everest Base Camp trek in December is very difficult, physically demanding that only people who are really fit for it can do. Together with cold weather, high altitude and rough terrain a good shape of the body is a prerequisite for a successful and pleasant trek.

At high altitudes the oxygen levels are reduced so cardiovascular fitness is important. This will be hard trekking, for several hours every day, on steep, uneven trails, which will wear down your endurance. So, start with aerobic exercises like running, cycling or swimming. Weighted backpacking hiking is an extremely useful way to simulate trekking conditions. Try to get at least 3 to 4 months of training, then increasing intensity as a way to build stamina and lung capacity.

Strength training is also just as important. Build up your legs to help with those constant elevation gains and losses with exercises such as squats, lunges and step ups. It’s important also to develop your core strength in order to maintain balance on uneven terrain and to carry your backpack. They will help you with upper body exercises to be able to comfortably carry your gear over long distances. Add planks, push ups and deadlifts into your routine.

In December, with all of that cold, yoga and stretching are good flexibility and mobility exercises. Maintaining a bit of flexibility can help prevent injuries and speed up recovery time after a long day’s trekking, and cold temperatures can make your muscles stiff.

The trek is exposed to altitudes higher than 5,000 meters, so it’s highly important to acclimatize in the month of December. The key to not getting altitude sickness is gradual ascent, hydration, and listening to your body. The best way is to train in higher altitudes with baggage beforehand if possible for your body to get used to attenuating oxygen levels.

Lastly, mental preparation is the key. It’s hard, but staying mentally strong and on track is helpful when the physical strain and possibly cold, long days take their toll. Proper physical preparation will make you able to get ready to tackle the unique experience of Base Camp Trekking In December.

Guided vs. Solo Trekking in December

Mount Everest Trek in December is rough, with the cold weather and snowy trails so the choice between guided and solo trekking becomes imperative. It’s highly recommended you hire a guide, especially if paths are closed by snow and tricky terrain lies ahead. The result is you take the safest route to your destination and also avoid all the dangerous areas.

In addition, guides act as an essential support for recognizing early warning signs of altitude sickness, hypothermia or frostbite, especially in winter. This gives them the ability to make critical decisions about when to ascend, rest, or skip a leg (or legs) of your trek for your safety. With a guide, it also allows you to acclimate properly, ensuring you are pacing yourself properly.

Equally useful are porters, particularly in winter when you’ll be hauling extra gear for cold conditions. Porters do take your load, and you are spared the load so that you can find energy for the trek. In fact, solo trekking in December becomes highly risky. Any health problem would be more serious, since finding help on the trail would be slower with fewer trekkers.

In winter, it can be so isolating that you miss the signs of altitude sickness or other cold related conditions coming on in time. While both solo and group trekking are safe in all seasons, risks are higher in winter. The safety not only is provided by hiring a guide and porter but also by cultural enrichment as a guide and porter also share local knowledge and tradition.

Safety Tips for Everest Base Camp in December

When going on Base Camp Trekking in December, safety is key because of how cold it is and how high kids are. The biggest risks are altitude sickness, and cold weather can make it even worse. Don’t ascend too fast or your body won’t have time to acclimatize, including rest days in places like Namche Bazaar.

Despite not feeling thirsty, you still need to keep yourself hydrated when it’s cold. Altitude sickness worsens if you’re dehydrated, so try to keep drinking water. Also wise to take altitude sickness medication such as Diamox. In December cold related risks, like frostbite and hypothermia, are much higher. Keeping body heat is possible by wearing multiple layers of clothing.

Look at yourself from the feet up, fingers, toes, and face are easily susceptible to frostbite. Wet clothes get you immediately into changing out of them because wet clothes accelerate heat loss and increase hypothermia risk.

Keep a first aid kit, high calories snacks and a thermal blanket in case of emergencies. Satellite phone or GPS trackers are good ways to communicate, mobile networks are not really reliable in areas far from civilization. If you’re planning to trek in tough conditions, having a guide with you provides an extra layer of safety should things go wrong.

Photography Tips for December Trekkers

The Everest Base Camp trek is a stunning time to photograph in December. Himalayas can be captured against clear skies and snow covered terrains. Kala Patthar is one of the best spots in the Everest region for photography with some of the world’s most incredible views of Everest and surrounding peaks. The mountains receive an early morning golden hue.

Another great spot is Tyangboche Monastery, located beautifully in front of Ama Dablam and when the snow is in December, it’s picture perfect. Winter scenery is dramatic, with snow covered trails and the Khumbu Icefall itself an excellent spot for a photo with less people in between.

Fighting with your camera gear in freezing temperatures is a challenge. In the cold, batteries go dead quickly so bring extra and keep them warm to your body. Moving from cold to warm environments can cause condensation to damage your equipment. Your camera will take some time to adjust slowly to changes in temperature.

Waterproof covers will protect your camera from snow and frost. When wearing the camera in freezing conditions it’s tough to hold the camera, so wear thin gloves to keep your hands warm yet maintain dexterity. By preparing, December is one season that proves the most beautiful to capture winter terrains.

Cultural Insights | December Festivals in Nepal

In the coldest months, December brings trekkers the chance to experience local culture and traditions in Nepal. Yomari Punhi is one of the most outstanding festivals, celebrated around December by the Newar community of Kathmandu Valley. This festival celebrates when families make Yomari, which is sweet rice flour dumpling filled with sesame seeds and molasses to show gratitude for the year’s harvest.

Mani Rimdu ends early December in Himalayan region and is celebrated by the Sherpa community. The festival of Asia, marked in monasteries like the Tengboche, consists of coloured masked dances, rituals and prayers done to a victory to Buddhism over evil forces. This sacred event is just an extra cultural boost if you’re trekking at this time.

In addition, there are more intimate celebrations in trekking villages in December. You can chat with locals in winter markets or local gatherings happening in Kathmandu or as you walk the trekking route. If you’re a trekker, then it just adds to the experience. These are cultural moments that help you figure out how people live in the mountains off season.

During the winter season, the tourism is less and this December the festivals celebrated here offer us a good chance to see Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Nepal’s colorful traditions radiate in the cold, even as trekkers get amazing mountain views and a warm look at the local way of life.

Costs and Budget for December Trekking

Permits required for Sagarmatha National Park entry permit costs around NPR 3,000 (USD 25) and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit NPR 2,000 (USD 17). No saving here as Nepal Tourism Board makes the price stay the same year around.

Round Trip from Kathmandu to Lukla costs around USD 150 to 200. Even though flights tend to cost the same in December, keep your eyes peeled for occasional discounts.

A basic room will cost you around USD 6 to 10 per night and in higher altitudes the price goes up to USD 16 to 20. The teahouses can charge extra for room heating or hot showers (USD 3 to 7).

At Lobuche or Gorakshep, meals can run on average USD 10 to 15, while they can average between USD 5 to 8 at lower altitudes. Remember, other heating, hot water and other bills may also apply.

For a sleeping bag rated for sub zero temperatures it too is easy to pick up for USD 2 to USD 5 per day to rent in Kathmandu, and so is a down jacket for USD 2 to 5 per day. You can rent a pair of crampons or microspikes of about the same price range, as well.

For a guide, you’ll spend USD 25 to 30 per day and for a porter, USD 15 to 20 per day. Unless they can afford to take an extended time off without pay, you might have some flexibility to negotiate lower rates in the offseason but their expertise is even more important in winter conditions.

Additionally, make sure you have extra hot water or electricity charging fees budget for, which can cost you USD 2 to 5 each use. Also, factor in the tip of the guide and the porter which will go USD 10 to 15 per day for a guide and USD 5 to 10 per day for a porter.

So, Is December the Right Time for You?

Base Camp Trekking in December is not for everyone but it comes with its pretty advantages. The biggest advantage is it’s far quieter on the trails than during peak season. Such few trekkers. It’s aphotographer’s dream, December is when the clear winter skies offer some of the best views of Everest and surrounding peaks.

It is challenging, trekking in December. It can get really cold, especially at night, and there’s not much daylight. so You must move early if you want to trek. The trails are icy or snow covered and may be extra challenging physically, with having to put on crampons and other gear.

But, if you are a thrill seeking adventurer, who enjoys a hike and absolutely loves some solitude, December is perfect for you..

And for new to trekkers, who are not comfortable with the extreme cold, then winter trekking has more to challenge you than rewards to offer. At the end of the day. What matters most are your individual preferences and how well you’re prepared for the conditions. December can be an unbelievable Himalayan adventure, providing you have the right gear and the right attitude.