Everest Base Camp is located in Nepal's eastern Himalayan range at 5,364 meters above sea level. Trek to Everest Base camp is the most famous activity among adventure enthusiasts and people who love to take on challenges.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a challenging activity. It is a multi-day walk through varying altitudes and climatic zones. The trail crosses lush hills, valleys, deep gorges, and glacier moraines. The climatic difference is extensive throughout the EBC Journey, and each season offers a different experiences. In general, the weather in the Himalayas is ferocious throughout the year.
However, two seasons, the spring and the autumn offer the most stable weather and climate conditions. These two seasons are the perfect time for Everest Base Camp trekking, but they also have cons. Similarly, the Everest Base Camp trek in winter and summer/monsoon is also possible, but extra caution and preparation are required.
As the blog continues, you will learn a lot about all four seasons in Nepal and how they affect travelling to EBC. Likewise, you will get a comprehensive idea of weather patterns and temperatures in different seasons.
*Note: The Everest Base Camp trek has two high seasons in Nepal, but it can be done in almost all seasons.
What is the weather like each month along the Everest Base Camp trail?
The Himalayas are cold throughout the year. The foothills experience all kinds of weather conditions to the fullest compared to the upper region. Cold increases as the elevation rises, and you get close to the alpine zone.
The daytime is hot, especially when you walk due to high exposure to the sun. Likewise, nights and mornings are cold. The climate is not freezing between late March and November, but you must wear warm clothes. Between December and mid-February, the entire region gets frozen. Unique alpine clothes are required to stay warm, Everest Base camp weather and temperature detail guide.
Month
Minimum
Temperature
Maximum
Temperature
Weather
Crowd
January
-17°C (1.4°F)
4°C (39.2°F)
Cold, dry
Very low
February
-15°C (5°F)
4°C (39.2°F)
Cold, dry
Very low
March
-12°C (10.4°F)
7°C (44.6°F)
Slightly warm
Medium
April
-5°C (23°F)
10°C (50°F)
Mild
High
May
0°C (32°F)
15°C (59°F)
Mild
High
June
-1°C (30.2°F)
16°C (60.8°F)
Hot, humid, and rainy
Very low
July
2°C (35.6°F)
15°C (59°F)
Hot, humid, and rainy
Very low
August
2°C (35.6°F)
16°C (60.8°F)
Hot, humid, and rainy
Very low
September
2°C (35.6°F)
15°C (59°F)
Rainy, mild
Medium
October
-6°C (21.2°F)
12°C (53.6°F)
Mild
High
November
-12°C (10.4°F)
6°C (42.8°F)
Mild
High
December
-14°C (6.8°F)
4°C (39.2°F)
Cold, dry
Low
Everest Base Camp Trip in different seasons
Each season has its unique weather patterns, climates, and trail conditions, which significantly influence your trekking experience. Below, we have discussed all four seasons in detail, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages:
Everest Base Camp Trekking in spring (March to May)
Spring is the pre-monsoon period and the transitional time from winter to summer. Because of the favorable weather and climate, it is considered one of the perfect times to visit Everest Base Camp. The mountains and peaks are freshly covered with snow, making the views incredible.
March is the first month of spring. Snow gradually melts as the climate begins to warm. By April, the trails will be dry and sturdy, and the chance of precipitation will also be very low. As the snow melts, the vegetation comes to life, and rivers and streams are full of water.
Rhododendrons and other flowers bloom all over the foothills. In March, the temperature ranges between -12°C to 7°C. By May, the lower elevation will see up to 20°C during the daytime. Hundreds of trekkers begin to arrive in Lukla to do the EBC trek.
With trekkers, many climbers also enter the region to summit Mount Everest and other mountains like Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak, etc. The environment is joyful and bustling.
Everest Base camp Trek Holidays in Summer/monsoon (June to August)
The weather is unstable in the summer/monsoon season, making it one of the most challenging times of the year to walk Everest Base Camp. Frequent rainfall affects the Lukla flights and ruins the trail, and the entire hilly region is at risk of landslides.
The trail is wet and muddy. Steep slopes are very slippery and difficult to ascend and descend. Likewise, many bugs and leeches are spread throughout the trail, especially in lower elevations. Until the rainfall starts, the climate is hot and humid.
The daytime is sunny, and exposure to the sun is very high in summer. The temperature significantly rises all over the country. It ranges between 22°C and 32°C in the lower part of the Everest region.
Given the unfavourable weather and climate between June and August, trekking in these months is little a hassle. Therefore, the trail remains empty. On the good side, empty trails allow you a peaceful journey.
Likewise, the vegetation thrives, and the rivers and streams rage with water. The clear days offer excellent views. If you are prepared for the rain and do not mind getting wet and muddy trails, you will enjoy Everest Base Camp odyssey summer/monsoon.
Similarly, trekking between June and August is recommended if you are interested in biodiversity and want to study the vegetation of Sagarmatha National Park closely. The fluctuating weather in the summer/monsoon season also leads to delays and cancellations in Lukla flights. Make sure to have 1-2 contingency days in your itinerary.
Everest base camp trail
Everest Base camp Trek in autumn (September to November)
Autumn starts the transitional period from summer/monsoon to winter season. It is another favourable time of the year to do the Everest Base Camp excursion because of stable weather and a mild climate.
It is also the best time of the year to trek in the Himalayas before the winter arrives. After the hottest time of the year, the climate begins to cool down gradually with the start of the autumn season.
Rainfall may occur till mid/late September, especially in Kathmandu and the plains of Nepal. As October begins, the weather stabilizes, and leaves turn yellow. The scenery is colorful.
The days are bright and clear so that you will enjoy stunning mountain panoramas. Travelers from all around the world visit the Everest region to do treks, so most of the trails are lively. The temperature ranges from -10°C to 20°C.
Nights and mornings are colder than the daytime. Autumn is also the festival season in Nepal. Festivals like different Jatras, Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath are all celebrated in autumn, adding a unique cultural experience to your trek.
The entire country gets ready to celebrate its biggest festivals. Tourist cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan also see festivities. The environment is joyful and lovely.
Everest Base Camp Trek Winter (December to February)
Winter is also considered an off-season for Everest Base Camp voyage. It is the coldest time of the year, with temperatures dropping as low as -20°C at higher elevations. The trails are covered with thick snow blankets.
The weather is unstable, so there can be occasional delays in Lukla flights. You will not encounter avalanches or snowstorms during trekking, but you may encounter snowfall. As winter is an off-season, the trails are almost empty.
Trekking to EBC in winter is adventurous and magical. Trekkers who are looking for a distinct experience should try winter trekking. The daytime is warm and sunny, so the views are crystal clear.
Some days can be gloomy. If you wear proper clothes, you will enjoy trekking to Everest Base Camp in winter.
Why should you do the Everest Base Camp trek in the spring and autumn seasons?
Walking during the best time of the year makes your trip hassle-free and immensely rewarding. Everything will be perfect. There will be no weather challenges, and the locals will be fully prepared to welcome you.
Also, many other reasons make spring and autumn the best time for EBC trekking. We have shared ten benefits of the Everest Base Camp trek during the best time below:
Stable weather conditions: Stable weather makes traveling in the Himalayas safe. You will be on your schedule, and Lukla's flight will not be delayed. Likewise, there is a rare to zero risk of rainfall or snowfall.
Moderate climate: The moderate climate allows you to trek comfortably. It will not be super cold or hot. The nights and mornings will be chilly, but it's manageable. You can add clothes or remove them as you need.
Crisp and clear sky: Clear skies are essential for the best mountain views. In the spring and autumn seasons, clouds do not form often, so the sky remains clear. Autumn is post-monsoon, so the air is dust-free, and views are most apparent.
Dry and safe trails: A safe trek requires a dry and sturdy trail. In spring and autumn, low precipitation keeps the trail dry, and the steep tracks are safe to navigate.
Rhododendrons and numerous other wildflowers: In the spring, the Himalayan foothills are covered with rhododendrons and other wildflowers and plants. The trails are vibrant and beautiful.
Spectacular mountain views: The less cloudy sky and absence of haze keep the mountain views crystal clear. The overall scenery is excellent because of superb visibility. You will not miss any view.
Delightful and high-energy: Spring and autumn are the peak trekking seasons, and given the popularity of the EBC trek, thousands of trekkers do this trek in these two seasons. The region becomes a melting point of people from different backgrounds. You will be able to make new friends and connect with people worldwide.
Incredible photography opportunities: Clear sky, lush vegetation, colorful rhododendron forests, vibrant valleys, and snow-capped mountains will make your photos and videos stunning. You will love your gallery in spring and autumn.
Access to side adventures: Stable weather and dry trails allow you to access remote corners of the region. You can enjoy hiking to hidden lakes, viewpoints, and settlements outside the itinerary.
Festivities and celebrations: In spring, Nepalese people celebrate Holi, Bisket Jatra, and Lhosar. Likewise, we celebrate Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, and many Jatras in the autumn season in Kathmandu Valley. The environment will be joyful and divine.
If you want to do the Everest Base Camp Hike, we recommend purchasing an EBC trek package from a local Nepali trekking company like ours. International travel portals charge way more than local Nepali companies and send their guests to us to handle the trip.
So, it is better to trek directly with a local company. The Everest Base Camp trek package covers all major expenses during the journey. The package cost includes transportation, permits, accommodation, and meals during trekking, accommodation and breakfast in Kathmandu, guide and porter fees, all taxes, and the company's service charge.
You will only be responsible for international flights to/from Kathmandu, travel insurance, tips, extra food and drinks, shopping, emergency funds, and other personal expenses.
One of the best advantages of trekking with a travel agency is that you do not have to worry about obtaining permits and reserving transportation and accommodation. They will arrange everything for you, making the trek hassle-free and smooth.
Not only that, but you will also trek with a friendly and experienced local mountain guide. The expertise of the local trekking company will make your EBC trek much more meaningful.
High-season crowds and alternate Everest Base camp routes/itineraries
Everest Base Camp is a very famous trek Adventure. More than 50% of foreigners visiting Nepal do this trek, which leads to high crowds during peak trekking seasons. The mainstream EBC trail that starts from Lukla and passes by villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche are mostly crowded.
If you want to experience the standard trail and do not mind other trekkers on the way, the 12 or 16 days Everest Base Camp trek is definitely the one. We will share the itinerary below for more information.
It is also the most doable EBC trek itinerary. Likewise, trekkers who have previous trekking experience or high-altitude experience can go for an alternative EBC trek route, which is less crowded and offers more tranquility.
If you are trekking following the standard route alone (without the support of the local trekking company) during the peak trekking season, make sure to book the accommodation in advance. Lukla flights also sell out quickly, so book your flight early.
Spring (pre-monsoon) and autumn (post-monsoon) are considered the best times for Everest Base Camp trek. These seasons have optimal weather and climate conditions for trekking safely in the Himalayas.
Is Everest Base Camp better in May or October?
October is one of the finest times of the year for the EBC trek. This month has the longest daylight hours, mild climate, stable weather, stunning mountain vistas, and the biggest Nepalese festivals. At the same time, May is the end of spring season. The climate is warm as the summer season is almost here.
What is the warmest month to visit Everest Base Camp?
June, July, and August are the warmest months in Nepal. In the Himalayas, the climate is never hot. However, exposure to the sun is strong in these months. You can see the temperature rising from 16°C to 20°C.
How cold is base camp Everest in May?
By the start of May, the climate begins to warm as temperatures increase all over the country. However, nights and mornings are cold, especially at higher elevations.
Is April good for Everest Base Camp?
Yes, April is a great time to trek to Everest Base Camp. This month has perfect weather, a clear sky, a moderate climate, and low chances of precipitation. April is also the peak of the spring season, so rhododendrons and many other wildflowers bloom all over the hills.
Can I do the Everest Base Camp trek in the winter season?
The Everest Base Camp trek in winter is possible and gratifying. You have to be well-packed and prepared for the journey. Snow falls all over the trail, requiring more attention and patience from the trekkers.
How do you avoid crowds during the peak trekking seasons?
You can trek at the start or end of the peak trekking seasons to avoid crowds.
Which month has the longest daylight hours?
October has the longest daylight hours. You will get up to eight hours of sunlight in this month.
Are there specific months when trekking companies offer discounts or packages?
You may get an additional discount during off-seasons like summer/monsoon and winter. The region is almost empty in summer/monsoon and winter, so the price of accommodation and other services are low.
Do the prices for guide and porter services fluctuate based on the trekking season?
Due to the high demand for guides and porters during the peak trekking seasons, their charges are high. In the off-season, their price is reasonable, too, but you can hire them at a decent rate.
How do the seasons (spring, autumn, winter, and monsoon) affect the trek conditions?
Spring and autumn have mild climates so that you can enjoy the entire journey. The trails are also in good condition in these seasons. In winter, the trails are covered with snow, and the climate is freezing. Likewise, the summer/monsoon hot and humid climate and frequent heavy rainfall ruin the trail.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of trekking in peak (spring/autumn) versus off-peak (winter/monsoon) seasons?
Peak season has stable weather, so Lukla's flights are on time. Many tourists trek to EBC in peak seasons, making the trail crowded.
Offseason offers peaceful trails, a low accommodation rate, and a distinct trekking experience. However, unstable weather and poor trail conditions delay Lukla flights and affect the overall experience.
How does the weather affect flights to and from Lukla?
Lukla Airport is situated on a hilltop at 2,860 meters above sea level. It is also a small airport, so only helicopters and small fixed-wing propeller planes land here. Stable weather is necessary for aircraft to land or take off from here safely, so even a slight change in weather may delay the flight.
What are the typical trail conditions during the monsoon season?
The lower part of the trail experiences frequent heavy rainfall in the monsoon season, making it muddy and slippery. Likewise, the risks of bugs and leeches drastically increase. Landslides are also possible, and cloudy skies may also obstruct mountain views.
Which season offers the best mountain views of Everest and the surrounding peaks?
The views of Mt. Everest and other mountains are mostly clear during the spring and autumn. Likewise, the winter season also offers the best mountain landscapes on bright, sunny days.
Are the rhododendron blooms in spring worth planning a trek around?
Rhododendrons are Nepal's national flower. In spring, the whole Himalayan foothills are covered with red and pink rhododendrons, making the scenery breathtaking. Many other flowers and plants thrive in spring, making trekking incredible in spring.
How does the time of year impact accommodation availability along the trail?
Spring and autumn see the highest numbers of trekkers. Most of the lodges along the Everest Base Camp trail are booked in advance by trekking for their guests. So, solo trekkers may need help finding a decent night's room.
We have seen trekkers spend nights in dining halls when the rooms are unavailable. In contrast to peak trekking seasons, off-season does not see many trekkers. Therefore, the lodges are available everywhere and also cost less.
Are cultural events or festivals in the region during specific months worth aligning with the trek?
Below, we have mentioned a few festivals celebrated by local communities. You can plan your EBC trek during that time. Make sure to check the exact dates for the festivals.
Mani Rimdu: October-November
Lhosar (Tibetan New Year): February-March
Dumji Festival: July
Saga Dawa: May-June
Yartung Festival: August-September
Dashain and Tihar: October-November
Are altitude sickness risks more significant during specific seasons?
Weather and climate affect your trekking pattern and acclimatization, so some months have a significant risk of altitude sickness compared to others. Winter has a high risk of altitude sickness because of extreme cold. However, you can mitigate the risk with ample acclimatization breaks in the itinerary.
Conclusion
Properly understanding Himalayan weather and temperature will allow you to make smart decisions. Every trekker has different expectations from their EBC trek. Knowing what you want from the journey and when you can get it will help you pick the right time for your trek.
We hope the above information helps answer your questions about the best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek. If anything needs to be added, feel free to contact us. Our EBC trek bookings are open for 2025 and 2026 departures.
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