Is the Everest Base Camp trek in January doable? - An expert opinion
Let's keep the New Year's motivation out of the box for a second and answer: is the Everest Base Camp trek in January actually doable or not? To be frank, January is not the preferred time for trekking in the Himalayas because of unstable weather, freezing climate, and snow-covered trails. It is the winter season, so what can you expect less?
We see people traveling to the Alps and other European countries for their winter vacation, spending thousands of dollars just to enjoy snow, cold, winter sports, and cozy vacations. Instead, why not visit Nepal and have a lifetime winter vacation at just a fraction of the cost? Our special New Year discount makes the Everest Base Camp Journey in January even more affordable. And let's not forget about the warm hospitality of Nepali people and their welcoming and gracious spirit.
Like a cherry on top, the Everest Base Camp trek route will be empty in January because it has been a practice not to visit the Everest base camp or any part of the Himalayas to trek or hike in January. We do not agree with it at all.
Winter sports are one of the most excellent experiences one can have in one's lifetime. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is one of the fantastic winter activities, but it is not limited to that. You can curate your EBC itinerary and combine, with nights in luxury lodges, helicopter return flights, souvenir shopping in lovely little mountain villages, etc.
With proper preparation, packing, and dedication, trust us, you will have an incredible time trekking to the Everest Base Camp in January. We are here to help you out with transportation, permits, guide and porter, and other reservations.
As the New Year is also around the corner, there couldn't be a better time to book your Everest Base Camp trek voyage. Bookings are open. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Weather and temperature along the Everest Base Camp trail in January
By January, it is mid-winter. It is one of the coldest times of the year in the Everest region. The climate will be cold throughout the day, but the warmth from the sun makes the daytime comfortable.
However, as the day falls, the temperature rapidly drops and can reach -17℃ or below in the upper part of the trail. The region experiences regular snowfall. The soundings are all covered with snow, making the landscapes extremely spectacular.
The air is cold. You may face a strong breeze on some days, so covering your face, ears, and neck well is important. The weather remains unstable. The daytime can be turned from bright and sunny to gloomy in no time.
On some days, there can be snow storms or heavy snowfall as well, but it usually doesn't last more than a day. Therefore, it is important to have at least 2-3 contingency days in your itinerary if you are trekking in the Himalayas in winter. It will provide you flexibility and not stress you out. If you have not walked on snowy trails before, it can get a bit tough initially. However, you will have a grasp in just a few hours of walking.
Our guide will teach you the best ways to walk on snow without wasting your energy unnecessarily. On a good note, the sky remains clear during the daytime and sunny most of the time. Still, it is essential you pack proper clothes and protect yourself from bitter cold. Gear like trekking poles, sleeping bags, sturdy trekking boots, etc, are important. Not only that, but as per the trail condition and your itinerary, you may have to use crampons and a few other winter gear.
We have shared the average temperature in different villages along the Everest Base Camp trail in January below and get the detailed weather and temperature guide for EBC trail.
- Lukla (2,846 m/9,337 ft): -2.8°C to 8.5°C
- Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft): 11°C
- Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,290 ft): -10°C to -3°C
- Tengboche (3,860 m/12,660 ft): -13°C to 1°C
- Dingboche (4,410 m/14,470 ft): -15.3°C to 1°C
- Lobuche (4,940 m/16,210 ft): -18.3°C to -1.1°C
- Gorak Shep (5,164 m/16,942 ft): -19.6°C to -2.1°C
- Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,598 ft): -20°C to 5°C
Everest Base Camp trek itinerary recommendation for January
The 16 days Everest Base Camp trek itinerary is the most famous one. You will start and end the journey in Kathmandu. You will arrive in Kathmandu and have a day tour in Kathmandu and fly to Lukla the next day and you also have an extra day at the end of the trek as buffer day which we will use for the Lukla flight delay or cancelation.
For the Everest Base Camp trek in January, 16 days to 17 days or 18 days itineraries will be ideal. You will have 2 to 4 contingency days in your hand, allowing you to not panic or stress if unseen events occur and you fall back on your plan. We have shared 16 days and 18 days Everest Base Camp trek itinerary below:
This itinerary has one preparation day in Kathmandu and one additional day after the trek ends that you can use in Kathmandu or in case an unseen event occurs in the mountain.
- Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
- Day 2: Full-day tour in Kathmandu
- Day 3: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
- Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 5: Acclimatization day: hike to the Hotel Everest View and return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night
- Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
- Day 7: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
- Day 8: Acclimatization day: hike to Nagarjuna Hill and return to Dingboche to spend the night
- Day 9: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
- Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep to spend the night
- Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar and descend to Pheriche
- Day 12: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Day 13: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Day 14: Fly to Kathmandu early in the morning
- Day 15: Reserve/buffer day in Kathmandu
- Day 16: Departure from Kathmandu
Everest Base Camp Trek 18 Days
We have four buffer days in this itinerary. Spend one full day in Kathmandu before the trek starts preparing and exploring the city. The rest of the three days, you can use them as needed. If you do not face any delays or Lukla flight cancellations, you will have three extra days in Kathmandu to explore.
- Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
- Day 2: Full-day tour in Kathmandu
- Day 3: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
- Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 5: Acclimatization day: hike to the Hotel Everest View and return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night
- Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
- Day 7: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
- Day 8: Acclimatization day: hike to Nagarjuna Hill and return to Dingboche to spend the night
- Day 9: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
- Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep to spend the night
- Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar and descend to Pheriche
- Day 12: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Day 13: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Day 14: Fly to Kathmandu early in the morning
- Day 15: Reserve/buffer day in Kathmandu
- Day 16: Reserve/buffer day in Kathmandu
- Day 17: Reserve/buffer day in Kathmandu
- Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu
Alternative treks in the Everest region in January
You do not necessarily have to trek to Everest Base Camp. The Everest Panorama trek is a fantastic short package that ascends to Tengboche village and returns to Lukla. You will witness stunning views of Mt. Everest and other mountains, along with experiencing the Sherpa lifestyle.
- Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
- Day 2: A full-day tour in Kathmandu
- Day 3: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
- Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 5: Acclimatization day: hike to the Hotel Everest View and return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night
- Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
- Day 7: Trek back from Tengboche village to Namche Bazaar
- Day 8: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Day 9: Fly to Kathmandu early in the morning
- Day 10: Reserve/buffer day in Kathmandu
- Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu
Combining a helicopter return from Gorak Shep has become quite famous these days. It allows you to skip three days of trekking back to Lukla. As the weather is unpredictable in January, we recommend you add 1-2 contingency days to your itinerary.
- Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
- Day 2: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
- Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 4: Acclimatization day: hike to the Hotel Everest View and return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night
- Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
- Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
- Day 7: Acclimatization day: hike to Nagarjuna Hill and return to Dingboche to spend the night
- Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
- Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorek Shep and to EBC and return to Gorek Shep
- Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar and return to Kathmandu in a helicopter
- Day 11:Transfer to the international airport for your flight home
The EBC trek by road allows you to escape the Lukla flight. Ideal in January because of the high chances of delays and cancellations. No Lukla flight means the itinerary is a bit long. On a good note, you will get ample time to explore beautiful snow-covered villages.
- Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
- Day 2: Full-day tour in Kathmandu
- Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Salleri
- Day 4: Drive from Salleri to Thandanda
- Day 5: Trek from Thandada to Phakding
- Day 6: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 7: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar
- Day 8: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
- Day 9: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
- Day 10: Acclimatization in Dingboche Village
- Day 11: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
- Day 12: Trek from Lobuche to EBC and return to Gorak Shep
- Day 13: Hike to Kalapattar and trek down to Pheriche
- Day 14: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Day 15: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Surke
- Day 16: Trek from Surke to Thandanda and drive to Salleri
- Day 17: Drive from Salleri to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
- Day 18: Transfer to the international airport for your flight home
Why trek to Everest Base Camp in January?
Everest Base Camp Trekking in January is totally a personal preference. Adventurers who love the winter season will love traveling in the Himalayas in January. The Himalayan region is pretty all around the year. However, winter brings out the true beauty of this mountain range. We have shared our top reasons for the Everest Base Camp trek in January below:
Cloudless sky- warm, comfortable daylight hours and stunning mountain vistas
The sky is mostly cloudless in January in the Everest region. Some days can be gloomy, but there is nothing to worry about. You will get to bask in the warm rays of the sun while trekking and witness stunning mountain vistas. The daylight hours will be short but ample for enjoying the views and the journey.
Peaceful trail
One thing that peak trekking seasons lack is a peaceful trail. Thousands of trekkers do EBC treks in the spring and autumn, so the trail is not tranquil. However, not even 5% of the trekkers visit the region in January, making the EBC trail tranquil. You will have the trail to yourself, which will allow you to savor every moment to the fullest.
Low Lukla flight and helicopter flight cost
January is downtime for local airlines that operate Lukla and helicopter flights in the region. Therefore, flights are available daily. You do not have to make reservations. Likewise, the cost of the flights is also comparatively low compared to peak seasons.
If you want to experience a helicopter flight over the Himalayas, this is a great time because of the low helicopter flight price. The only issue is delayed flights because of unstable weather.
Ample accommodation
In months like March, April, May, September, October, and November, when the weather is the finest and hundreds of travelers visit Everest Region, the lodges are usually all pre-booked and packed. Spending nights in dining halls is common. However, this is not the case in January. You do not have to pre-book the lodge, and there are numerous options to choose from.
Moreover, the accommodation cost is also on the lower side compared to the peak trekking months.
January festivities
January is the start of the New Year, so we are all ready to set new goals and be better versions of ourselves. This is a good enough reason to do the EBC trek this month.
Likewise, in Nepal, we celebrate Maghe Sankranti, an auspicious celebration among Nepalese.
What are the major concerns about trekking to EBC in January?
The cold climate is the major concern when trekking to EBC in January. However, there are also a few other things that one should know about if planning to do the Everest Base Camp trek in January. We have also shared ways to overcome the concerns, so please read carefully.
Snowfall and trail blockade
Heavy snowfall is inevitable in January. The Everest Base Camp trail is covered with thick layers of snow. As the elevation rises, cold, snowfall, and snowstorm risk increase.
Because of the snow, the trails are hidden, and there is a high risk of getting lost if you are trekking alone. In some sections at upper elevation, you may also have to use crampons to walk safely on the snow. If the weather gets worse, routes like high passes get closed.
Snowstorms and bitter cold
You may encounter snowstorms in January. Likewise, the temperature significantly drops, making the air and the climate very cold. Morning hours are calm.
However, strong winds blow as the sun rises and gets close to the afternoon. It is not the case every day, but you may have a tough time on some days. Therefore, we emphasize having contingency days in your itinerary.
Possibility of frostbite
Frostbite is inevitable in the winter season if you are not well dressed. It is a natural phenomenon and is 100% avoidable. Wearing thermal socks, gloves, and scarves is important to keep yourself warm.
Likewise, you have to properly layer the clothes to fight the Cold. While purchasing winter trekking clothes, ensure you are getting the pieces that are made to protect you and keep you warm below -15℃.
Flight delays/getting stuck
Unpredictable weather can cause disturbances in your itinerary. Your Lukla flight may get delayed or canceled. Likewise, you may get stuck in a blizzard or heavy snowfall. So, having 1-2 extra days in your itinerary is important.
Slow trekking and exhaustion
Walking on snow or walking in cold climates demands more energy than in ideal climate conditions. You will be walking slowly and also get exhausted faster than usual. Strong fitness and patience are required to enjoy winter trekking to the Everest Base Camp.
Empty trails
While empty trails can be ideal for enjoying a solitary journey, it also has its side effects. You will rarely find any other fellow trekker on the way to interact or ask for help.
If you are fine spending time with yourself, you will enjoy the empty trails. However, you may have to adjust if you prefer people around you. Download movies, songs, series, podcasts, etc, for the trip.
Limited menu and closed lodges
Usually, in the Himalayas, locals at higher elevations descend to lower elevations to spend the winter season. Because of that, some lodges get closed.
Some villagers along the Everest Base Camp trail may descend to lower altitudes to spend winter, but not everyone. Thanks to a low number of tourists in winter, the available open lodges are more than enough. Similarly, the menu is limited in winter compared to spring and autumn. You will have decent options to choose from, but overall, the menu will have limited dishes. Carry high energy snacks and bars.
Acclimatization
Acclimatization is an important aspect of Everest Base Camp trekking. Cold weather makes it difficult to acclimate. You will not feel like drinking water regularly, which may dehydrate you and increase the risk of altitude sickness.
Likewise, you will also get tired sooner than usual. Therefore, trekking slowly and maintaining your pace is important. Carry a nice water bottle that can keep your water lukewarm for a long time, and combine other fluids like electrolytes, soups, teas, etc, in your daily meals.
Should I do the Everest Base Camp trek alone or with a guide in January? What is recommended?
We recommend trekking with a guide even during the best trekking seasons for the best experience. No doubt, trekking to EBC with a guide in the off time is suggested.
In January, you will literally be by yourself on the trail. If you are trekking alone, there will be no one to guide you or help you unless you are in a village. Moreover, the winter's cold weather can exert additional physical and mental strain. A guide, however, will not only keep you motivated but also ensure your safety, providing a comforting sense of security.
You will have an excellent time listening to your guide's stories and talking with him. He will also help you have a conversation with the locals, making the journey much more immersive.
Not to mention, a guide will also help you cross the difficult sections safely and alert you in advance. We recommend trekking with a guide.
Staying safe during EBC trekking in January
Safety should be your top priority while trekking in the Himalayas in the offseason, like winter. January has many pros and cons; regardless of that, you have to be aware of safety measures to make sure you will have the best trip.
- Solo trekking is not encouraged at all. Make sure to find yourself a reliable Nepali trekking company like Outfitter Himalaya that will arrange everything related to trekking and also provide a professional guide.
- Pack proper insulating clothes for winter trekking. Carry a high-quality sleeping bag that can keep you warm even below -10C.
- Make sure to have at least two acclimatization days in your itinerary.
- Have 1-2 contingency days in case you want to spend an extra night in any village or come across an unseen situation.
- Stay informed about the weather. Check the weather forecast for the trek duration and note it if needed. Try checking the weather throughout the trip.
- Listen to your body and know when it needs to break or feel discomfort. Know the signs of altitude sickness and frostbite.
- Be aware of your surroundings and walk cautiously. Follow your guide's lead, and do not get off of the route.
- Being patient and flexible with the itinerary is crucial. In the Himalayas, especially when the weather is unpredictable, nothing is set in stone. Being prepared to adjust to nature's adversities can make the journey less stressful and more enjoyable.
Everest Base Camp trek in January cost
We have many Everest Base Camp trek packages, including different trekking duration, destinations, difficulties, and services. If you follow the mainstream EBC trail (16-day itinerary), the package cost starts at USD 1600 per person and goes down as per the group size.
Our 16-day EBC trek has two acclimatization days in the mountain, one full day in Kathmandu for trek preparation, and one buffer day as well. This itinerary is not on a time crunch and is suitable for winter trekking.
Aside from the package cost, we recommend trekkers withdraw money for personal expenses during trekking like guide and porter tips, extra food and bar bills, and to purchase additional services like hot shower, charging, WiFi, etc.
If you want to customize the Everest Base Camp trek in January package to fit your budget and requirements, get in touch with us. We will be more than happy to help you.
Everest Base Camp trek winter packing guide
Winter packing demands more caution and effort. Likewise, you have to carefully pick your base and outer layer. Likewise, packing even the smallest essentials is crucial. Below is a comprehensive list of things you need for the Everest Base Camp trek in January.
- Head and hand: Sun cap, wool/fleece hat, balaclava, neck gaiter/scarf, lightweight synthetic liner glove, wind Stopper fleece gloves/snow gloves
- Upper body: Short-sleeved shirts/t-shirts, synthetic or fleece Jacket, down insulated jacket, waterproof/windproof jacket
- Lower body: Underwear, trekking pants, synthetic insulated pants, windproof/waterproof pants, trekking & climbing socks
- First aid kit: Water purification tablets, bandage, crack bandage, tincture, Lodine, Strepsils, antibiotic, paracetamol, aspirin, Sinex, anti-diarrhea capsule/Eldoper, Brufen/ibuprofens, Diamox, eye drops, zip-lock bags
- Toiletries: Hand sanitizers, hand wash/soap, wet tissues, toothpaste, toothbrush, bath soap, shampoo, moisturizers, laundry soap, SPF, lip balm, deodorant, toilet paper
- Miscellaneous: Torch, sandals, lightweight trekking boots, daypack, duffel bag, reusable water bottle, thermos/flask, pack towel, raincoat, spare batteries, solar chargeable power bank (optional), journal/pen, book/board game, bars & snacks
- Travel documents: Valid passport (six months of validity), Nepal travel visa, PP size photo, travel insurance paper (medical & rescue), family/company contact number & address, cash, credit card
Conclusion
Whether New Year is your motivation to trek to the Everest Base Camp in January or the less crowded trails and breathtaking mountain vistas, we are here to make your wish come true. Bookings are open for 2026 and 2027 New Year departure, Get your seat now and receive a special discount as well. There are many other winter treks in Nepal.
We also have shared Everest base camp trek in different months, if you are planing Everest base camp trekking for diferent month, get detail information:
