Weather and Temperature of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
December is the first month of the coldest Winter season in Nepal. With the arrival of December, the temperature around the Everest region starts to drop to the freezing level. As we know, the higher regions like Everest Base Camp are cold throughout the year.
The matter is sometimes it’s colder and sometimes it’s less cold. And, December is the first month of the Winter season, it is sure the temperature drops extremely. The lower regions of Everest Base Camp Trek are less colder than the higher regions.
Let’s see each of the stops and their temperature of the Everest Base Camp Trek in December:
Lukla
Altitude: 2,829m
Max Temperature: 9.8°C
Min Temperature: -1.8°C
Average Temperature: 4°C
Namche Bazaar
Altitude:3,463m
Max Temperature: 7.6°C
Min Temperature: -6.5°C
Average Temperature: 0.5°C
Lobuche
Altitude: 4,910m
Max Temperature: 1.1°C
Min Temperature: -16.4°C
Average Temperature: -7.7°C
Gorak Shep
Altitude: 5,180m
Max Temperature: 0°C
Min Temperature: -17.8°C
Average Temperature: -8.9°C
The above data shows the temperatures of popular destinations you go through during the Everest Base Camp Trek. As you can see that with the increase in elevation the temperature has also decreased. So, Elevation and temperature work oppositely in the higher region. The morning and night times are the coldest throughout the 24 hours.
The average nighttime temperature is around -14°C. But the daytime temperature of December’s day is bearable and pleasant to walk. The precipitation level is very low, around 3mm, which means very low chances of rainfall and overcast conditions. No rainfall provides dry trails, clear skies, and clear mountain views.
If you are thinking of Everest Base Camp Trek in December, don't go anywhere, we have the best package for you. Just contact us.
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Why do Everest Base Camp Trek in December?
Very Low Precipitation level
Rainfall and overcloud conditions are the two head-aching things for any of the trekkers. Due to rainfalls, the trails become slippery and muddy, the mountain views get obstructed and the possibility of landslides. To say all this, rainfall is not a good sign for trekking.
However, the December month is the driest month of all with very low precipitation levels. You’ll enjoy dry trails, clear skies and unobstructed mountain views throughout the December month.
Awesome visibility
The clear and awesome visibility of the Everest region is the major perks of Everest Base Camp Trek in December. Due to the low level of rainfall, the views are crystal clear without fogs and clouds. Walking just under the clear skies towards the mountains by enjoying the crystal-clear view of surroundings, is the kind of trekking experience you will get in the month of December.
December is the first month after the departure of the peak Autumn season. So, if you will trek in early December, you will get to experience some remaining shades of the Autumn season as well.
Peaceful Trails
December is the first month of the Winter season which is considered as the off-season for Everest Base Camp Trek. Due to this understanding among people, the trails of Everest Base Camp Trek in December are emptier and peaceful than ever.
You can just walk on your own just the way you want, no disturbance and nor crowd. By the way, walking in the peaceful trails of the Everest region is far more explorative than the crowded trails. Just you and the beautiful surrounding, nothing else.
Easy accommodations
Finding the choice of accommodations in the Everest region is just impossible during the Autumn and Spring season. Due to the peak trekking time, the lodges and teahouses are packed with the abundant trekkers. But that is not the case in December, you can easily get the accommodation of your pick and preferences. During December, the Everest region doesn’t see much of the trekkers which results in empty lodges. So, you will get discounts on accommodations and meals. The lodging areas are also empty which means you can enjoy your meal peacefully.
Easy Flight Tickets
During December you don’t need to panic too much for the flight tickets. The tickets are easily available, no need for advance booking. Due to off-season, the flights to Lukla are mostly empty which is a rare thing to happen. If you are here during any months of Autumn or Spring season then only you will know the stress of the Lukla tickets. Seeing that, December is far relaxing and stress-free in the case of flight tickets.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulties in December
Trekking Distance
Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate rated trek which covers the total distance of 130km in a round trip. On the normal 12-days itinerary, you have to walk for 9 days out of total with a distance of 15km per day. The trekking trails are not flat rather they are bumpy sometimes up and sometimes down. Due to these rough trekking terrain, it will be difficult to cover the targeted distance in a day. This difficulty is not only for Everest Base Camp Trek in December it is for all months and seasons. But with prior training and good preparation, the Everest Base Camp Trek is not that difficult as it seems.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a challenging part of Everest Base Camp Trek in December. Everest Base Camp Trek is a high altitude trek that takes you to the mountains-touching altitudes of Everest Base Camp(5,364m) and Kala Patthar(5,643m). Everyone is not used to higher altitudes like the locals.
You will see regular changes in altitudes every next day and the human body needs a certain time to adjust with new altitudes. Altitude sickness can hit you anytime and anywhere in Everest Base Camp Trek. Altitude sickness can get dangerous in case of no emergency treatment.
Shorter Days
Days of December are shorter than the normal days. Shorter days increase trekking pressure in the trekker mind, you have to walk a bit faster to reach the overnight destinations. Everest Base Camp Trek is a moderate trek with 5 to 8 hours of trekking per day. Hence, the short days of December can add pressure to the already existing difficulties of Everest Base Camp Trek in December.
Unexpected Snowfalls
December is the month of the Winter season, the coldest season of all. So, there can be unexpected snowfalls in the higher regions. The snowfall makes the trail difficult to walk on. The thick snow layer on the trails is slippery to trek on without the snow gears. The snowfalls can even block the entire route sometimes.
Cold temperature
The temperature of the Everest regions during December is colder than ever. Higher regions are mostly under zero degrees celsius. The cold and chilly temperatures can cause some serious problems also. The morning and night hours are the coldest ones.
Essential tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Do physical training
Join physical and mental training several months before the trek date. Everest Base Camp trek is a moderate rated trek that demands 5 to 8 hours of a daily walk. The trails also consist of regular ascents and descents. To walk for long-duration making ascents and descents is not an easy thing to do. Hence, cardio training like swimming, cycling, hiking, running can boost your pain endurance level. And, the stronger your endurance level the easier it will be the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Acclimatize yourself
Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the highest altitude treks. You will encounter regular changes in altitudes which can cause altitude sickness. To avoid altitude sickness you need to acclimate yourself with the new altitudes. So, take one or two off days for acclimatization during the trek for adjusting with the high altitudes.
Stay Hydrated
A hydrated body is very less prone to altitude sickness. So while trekking it is very important to keep your body hydrated. To hydrate your body, drink water regularly with certain breaks. Avoid alcohol and smoke as they dehydrate your body.
Take breaks
Walking rapidly without the breaks and pause can cause altitude sickness. So, it is better to slow down your trekking speed and rest for a while. Taking breaks will recharge your tired body hence increasing your trekking speed as well. But, don’t pause for too long.
Start early
Days of December are shorter in comparison to other days of the year. And you have to cover around 10 to 15 km per day in Everest Base Camp Trek. So, with the shorter days you will have a short period to trek. Hence, it is suggested to start early in mornings to reach the overnight destination before nightfall. But remember that, the first hours of the days are a bit colder than the day time. So, you have to wear warm clothes to avoid the cold during the morning.
Get Travel insurance
Travel insurance is very handy during the high altitude treks. It can happen anything during the trek for example, injuries, accidents or maybe altitude sickness. So, travel insurance covers all the cost and expenses of these incidents. Also, in case of altitude sickness it also covers the cost of emergency helicopter rescue.
Backpack wisely
Backpacking is one of the important things to consider while Everest Base Camp Trek in December. December is a cold month and you have to pack accordingly. You have to pack warm and thick clothes to bear the harsh temperature of Everest region. So pack all the layering clothes to keep your body warm. Also, don't miss out on the snow gears that can come handy in snowy trails. We have one full heading for the packing list for Everest Base Camp Trek in December, read that full guide and pack your bag appropriately.
Get experienced guide and porters
Having the experienced guide on trips like Everest Base Camp is very helpful. Everest Base Camp Trek in December can see some harsh weather turnarounds like snowfall. So in such situations, an experienced guide can direct the safe way. Don't miss out on porters as they carry your heavy bags on trek. Everest Base Camp Trek is a long and tiring journey, it is difficult to trek with a heavy bag on your back. So, this is where porters come friendly.
Additional tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in December
- Wear right gears while trekking
- Carry some extra jackets and sleeping bags
- Re-check all the bag items to make sure you have packed all the essentials
- Be up-to-date with temperature, snowfalls before deciding the trek date
- Walk confidently with a passion to complete the trek
- Let the animals like yak, donkeys go ahead, give them way
- Carry some energy bars, dry foods and energy drinks with you
- Don't get panic on having altitude sickness symptoms, it is normal in high altitude treks
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Headwear
- Sun hat or cap
- Warm hat or cap
- Sunglasses(UV)
Upper Body
- Hiking T-shirts
- Light thermal tops
- Fleece jacket
- Down jacket
- Pullovers or sweaters
- Fleece windshield jacket
- Waterproof jacket
Hand wear
- Inner layer gloves
- Warm outer-layer gloves
- Waterproof outer layer gloves
Lower Body
- Breathable undergarments
- Light trekking pants
- Warm trousers/ pants
- Water/windproof pants
Footwear
- Light inner socks
- Warm trekking socks
- Strong trekking shoes with spare laces
- Sport shoes
- Sandals or flip flops
- Gaiters
Accessories
- Sleeping bag(-10C)
- Headtorch with extra batteries
- Trekking Bags/Duffel bag
- Day Backpack
- First Aid Kit
- Extra plastic bags
- Trekking sticks
- Water bottles
- Ear plug
Toiletries
- Quick drying towel
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Soap and Shampoos
- Deodorants/Body spray
- Face/Body Moisturizing cream
- Wet wipes/tissues
- Toilet papers
- Hand sanitizer
- Female toiletries products
Miscellaneous(optional)
- Camera
- Books
- Playing cards
- Binoculars
- Guide Book
- Pillow case
Other Possible treks of Everest Region in Early December
Everest Base Camp Trek is not the only option available during December to explore the beauty of Everest region. We have several other packages that are equally adventurous and worthy as Everest Base Camp trek.
Gokyo Valley Trek
Trip Facts:
Duration: 13 days & 12 nights | Trip Difficulty: Moderate | Max Altitude: 5,483m |
Group Size: 2 to 16 pax | Price: USD 1210 per person
Gokyo Valley Trek is a popular trekking destination of the Everest region. This trek takes you to the one of the most beautiful valleys of Nepal, Gokyo Valley. The Gokyo Ri(5483m) is the major attraction of this trek, you will get to climb it. Other than this, the trek has ample mountain views, terrain views,and cultural explorations.
The main highlights of Gokyo Valley Trek are as below:
- Scenic Lukla flights
- Exploration of Sherpa’s unique culture, lifestyles and hospitality
- Scaling the Gokyo Ri(5483m)
- Walking through wonderful landscapes and alpine forests
- Entering the UNESCO site Sagarmatha National Park
- Various Gokyo glacier lakes
- Breathtaking views of Mt Everest, Mt Cho Oyu, Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu
For a detailed overview and Itinerary of this trip or for customization and booking, click this link: Gokyo Valley Trek
Mount Everest 3 High Pass Trek
Trip Facts:
Duration: 21 days & 20 nights | Trip Difficulty: Strenuous | Max Altitude: 5,545m |
Group Size: 2 to 16 pax | Price: USD 1950 per person
Mount Everest 3 High Pass Trek is also one of the popular trekking options in the Everest region. This trek is longest of all with 21 days & 20 nights which takes you to three high pass of the Everest region, i.e. Renjola Pass(5435m), Chola Pass(5420m), Kongma La Pass(5535m). This is one of the most challenging and adventurous treks in Nepal. Specially designed for the adventure-seekers.
The main highlights of Mount Everest 3 High Pass Trek are as below:
- Scenic flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa
- Ascending the three passes: Renjola Pass, Chola Pass, and Kongma La Pass
- Hiking to the top of Gokyo Ri
- Exploration of unique Himalayan lifestyle and culture
- Visiting ancient and famous Tengboche Monastery
- Trekking through world highest glacier, i.e. Khumbu glacier
- Viewing the Mt Everest from Kala Patthar(5,545m)
- Breathtaking gokyo lakes
For detailed overview and Itinerary of this trip or for customization and booking, click this link: Mount Everest 3 High Pass Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter return
Trip Facts:
Duration: 9 days & 8 nights | Trip Difficulty: Moderate | Max Altitude: 5,555m |
Group Size: 2 to 16 pax | Price: USD 2800 per person
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter return is a combination of Helicopter ride and trek. This trek is designed with one way via trek and other way via Helicopter ride. It is very suitable to those who don't have much time for the round trip of Everest Base Camp Trek. Within 9 days, you will experience all of the Everest region, i.e. air flights to Lukla, trekking from Lukla to EBC, and helicopter return to Kathmandu. This trek is best to avoid the long homecoming trek and also for Everest Base Camp trek in December.
The main highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter return are as below:
- Scenic flights from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Dining at the World highest placed hotel, Everest View Hotel
- Panoramic views of Everest region mountains from Kala Patthar
- Trekking through Khumbu glacier and icefall
- Entering the UNESCO site Sagarmatha National Park
- Exploring the culture and lifestyles of unique Sherpas
- Adventurous and scenic helicopter return from Kala Patthar(5545m) to Kathmandu
For detailed overview and Itinerary of this trip or for customization and booking, click this link:Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter return
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Trip Facts:
Duration: 1 day | Trip Difficulty: Easy | Max Altitude: 5,555m |
Group Size: 1 to 5 pax | Price: USD 1100 to 1500 per person
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is the easiest option of all to experience the Everest region. This tour takes just 1 day to complete. So, within 12 hours you will reach Everest Base Camp to enjoy the views and return to Kathmandu. This luxurious adventure is designed for those who don't have much time to do the entire Everest Base Camp Trek. And, this tour is possible throughout the year only depending upon the immediate weather.
The main highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Tour are as below:
- Scenic 1 hour Lukla flight from Kathmandu
- Lukla to Kala Patthar Helicopter ride
- Breathtaking mountain views from Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp
- Dining at one of the highest placed hotels, Everest View Hotel
- Short cultural explorations of locals at Lukla
For detailed overview and Itinerary of this trip or for customization and booking, click this link: Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Conclusion
“Everest Base Camp Trek in December is impossible” this is just a myth among the people. In reality, the trek to Everest Base Camp in December is possible. Yeah, it is a bit more difficult than the other periods of the year. But remember that “Difficult road often leads to beautiful destinations”. The same is with the December month, the Everest Base Camp Trek in December is a peaceful natural experience.
If you are thinking of Everest Base Camp Trek in December, don't go anywhere, we have the best package for you. Just contact us.
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