March is one of the best times of the year to do the Everest Base Camp trek. It is the start of the spring season in Nepal and a peak trekking season in the Himalayas. To avoid the crowd that comes in the later part of the month, we recommend starting the Everest Base Camp trek in the first week of March. As the March begins, the cold gradually subsides, and the trees are back in life with yellow and green leaves. The flower buds are thriving and by the end of March, the lower part of the Everest Base Camp trail is covered with rhododendrons and magnolia. The trekking route looks exceptionally beautiful.
Likewise, the locals who left the upper part of the trail because of the extreme cold return to their homes, and the region is all open and ready to welcome trekkers. As the day passes by, the climate begins to settle, and the weather gets much more stable. You can feel a fresh warmth in the air that indicates the climate is warming up.
The mountain views are phenomenal because the sky remains mostly clear throughout the day. There can be some days when the lower part of the region may see rainfall. While the upper parts of the trail see snowfall. This solely shows the transition in the weather as the new season is approaching.
Weather and temperature of Everest Base Camp trail in March
The weather and temperature vary along the Everest Base Camp trail in March. Starting from the lower part of the trail, Lukla to Namche Bazaar, the climate is on the warm side with a bit colder nights and mornings. Likewise, from Namche Bazaar to Dingboche, the mid-section of the trail is a bit colder than the lower part, and the temperature drops to 0°C (32°F) above Dingboche, the upper part of the EBC trail.
March carries a very lovely balance of hot and cold. You will neither feel very cold during the trek nor scorching hot. Layering the clothes is important because you can remove or add them as the climate demands. The weather is stable, with bright days and clear visibility. This also results in no delays and less chance of Lukla's flight cancellation.
Likewise, the dryness decreases, and the humidity level comes to a balance. The wind is also not that bad in March. Evenings are on the cold side, so keep a couple of warm pieces on hand with you. The average temperature ranges from 12°C to -5°C (53.6°F to 23°F). As the blog continues, you will learn more in detail about the temperature in the main villages along the EBC trail.
Reached Everest Base Camp in March
Average temperature at different points along the Everest Base Camp trail in March
There are many reasons why you should do Everest Base Camp Trek in Mach, find some of them:
Less crowd and more chances to enjoy the journey
As March is just the beginning of the peak trekking season, the trail is yet not packed with trekkers, so you will get a chance to enjoy the serenity of the Everest region if you are early. Likewise, there will be no issue in getting the accommodations. We still recommend booking the accommodations along the trail in advance to be on the safe side.
Perfect weather
March has the perfect weather conditions to do the Everest Base Camp trekking. It is stable with a clear sky and bright days. The mountain views are stunning, and the chance of precipitation is quite low. You do not need to have a contingency day in your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary. You will enjoy the trek and get to experience the best of the Himalayas.
Scenic trails
March brings vibrant and colorful landscapes to the Everest region as the rhododendron flowers start to bloom. The visibility is excellent, allowing for spectacular panoramas of iconic mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Streams, rivers, and waterfalls begin to unfreeze, adding more beauty to the region. From the lush valleys to glacier moraines, the scenery is surreal.
No worries about Lukla's flight delays or cancellations
Lukla airport location makes it quite vulnerable to the smallest change in weather. In March, the weather mostly remains predictable, which keeps the Lukla flights on schedule. There could be occasional 15-minute to half-hour delays, but 99.99% of flights fly. Moreover, the aerial mountain views are clear and breathtaking.
Wildlife and birds of Sagarmatha National Park
The wildlife sightings are challenging due to the rugged terrain and the presence of trekkers along the famous Everest trail. However, during the first two weeks of March, when there are fewer trekkers, you may see Himalayan tahr, musk deer, pheasants, and various species of birds on the way.
Walking todwards Everest Bsae Camp
Festivals in March
March provides opportunities to experience local Sherpa culture and witness some festivals and religious ceremonies. Visiting monasteries along the trail, such as Tengboche and Pangboche, allows trekkers to engage with the unique traditions of the region.
Below are some of the festivals you will come across if you do the Everest Base Camp trek in March:
Holi
Holi, the "Festival of Colors," is one of the most joyous and vibrant festivals celebrated in Nepal. It typically falls in March and marks the arrival of spring. The festival usually aligns with the full moon day in the Nepali month of Falgun, which corresponds to February or March in the Gregorian calendar.
Holi is a two-day festival in Nepal, with the main celebration taking place on the second day. One of the most popular stories associated with Holi is the tale of Prahlad and Holika. The burning of Holika's effigy on the eve of Holi represents the triumph of good over evil.
The heart of Holi lies in the playful splashing of vibrant colors on family, friends, and even strangers. The celebrations are accompanied by traditional folk music and dance. People gather in public spaces, play drums and other musical instruments, and dance.
Maha Shiva Ratri
Maha Shivaratri, also known as the "Great Night of Shiva," is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated in Nepal and around the world. This festival honors Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
Maha Shivaratri falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Falgun in the Hindu lunar calendar. It is a night dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the union of Shiva and Parvati.Devotees fast during the day and engage in nightlong vigils at Shiva temples. Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, sees a massive influx of devotees during Maha Shivaratri.
Ghode Jatra
Ghode Jatra is a traditional festival celebrated in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. It is believed to have originated during the rule of King Pratap Malla in the 17th century as a military parade to showcase the strength of the army.
Over time, Ghode Jatra has evolved into a cultural celebration and a way to ward off the demon Tundi, who was believed to reside beneath the city. The centerpiece of Ghode Jatra is a military parade and horse racing event that takes place at Tundikhel, an open ground in the heart of Kathmandu.
Tips for Everest Base Camp trek in March
Start your trek early
Begin your trek early in the day to take advantage of clear skies and stunning mountain views. Afternoon clouds are common, and starting early increases your chances of witnessing breathtaking views over the Himalayas.
Well prepared in advance
Make sure you are well-prepared and packed for the journey. Follow our team's advice and prepare for the EBC trek accordingly. Do regular exercise and get your trekking boots early. Wear them off and get to use them. Pack the smallest toiletries like paper soap and toilet paper.
Regular acclimatization and hydration
Take your time to acclimatize to higher altitudes. Follow a gradual ascent, take rest days, and listen to your body. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude. Drink lots of water and other fluids throughout the day.
Pack snacks and high-energy foods
Carry snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits to maintain energy levels during the trek. Trekking at higher altitudes requires additional calories, and having easily accessible snacks can be helpful.
Book in advance
March is a popular time for trekking in the Everest region, and accommodation in tea houses and lodges can fill up quickly. Plan your itinerary and book accommodation in advance, especially in high-demand places like Namche Bazaar and Gorak Shep.
Stay informed about weather conditions
Keep an eye on weather forecasts, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Be prepared for occasional snowfall and bring waterproof gear to stay dry in case of unexpected weather changes.
Many trekking destinations in Nepal are suitable for March, some of the popular ones are:
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Thorong La Pass
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is another popular trekking destination in Nepal, and March is a good time to do this trek as the weather is warm and the skies are clear in the Annapurna Circuit Trail.
The Langtang Valley Trek offers trekkers the opportunity to explore the remote and beautiful Langtang National Park and is a good option for March, as the weather is warm and the skies are clear in March.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Himalaya View from Poon Hill
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short and easy trek that offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and is a great option for those who are short on time or are looking for a less strenuous trek. The month of March is a good time to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Larke La Pass
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a remote and challenging trek in Nepal Himalaya that takes trekkers through the beautiful Manaslu region and is a good option for March.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking destination in Nepal, and March is a good time to do this trek as the weather is warm and the skies are clear. During this time, the temperature in the daytime can range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while the nighttime temperature can drop to below freezing.
Concluson
The above are just a few of the many trekking options available in Nepal for March. Whether you're looking for a challenging high-altitude trek or a short and easy trek, Nepal has something to offer for everyone, Let us know.
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