May is the last month of the spring season and also the last stable month to enjoy a trek in the Everest region before the summer/monsoon's unstable weather hits. While Kathmandu and other cities in Nepal begin to see a huge rise in temperature, the climate still remains moderate in the mountains.
Trekkers who aim to enjoy spring blossoms and scenery usually do the Everest Base Camp trek in April or March. So, by the second week of May, most trekkers have already left the region, making the trail less busy. In general, there will be less crowd on the Everest Base Camp route in May.
Therefore, you will enjoy relatively less busy trails throughout this month. Likewise, by the last two weeks of May, the region will be empty, and climbers are mostly seen. The weather and climate in May are fantastic. It is not too cold or too hot. Likewise, the chances of rainfall are also quite low.
Spring blossoms are still there and only getting better. The days are bright and sunny, and the sky is usually clear. You will enjoy stunning landscapes and mountain views. You will not be alone on the trail, but it is also not too crowded.
Enjoy peaceful walks in the daytime and mingle with fellow trekkers and the locals in the evening. Trekkers who would love to have all the perks of a peak trekking season along with less crowd should go trekking to Everest Base Camp in May.
Everest Base Camp trek weather in May
May is fairly warm, compared to March and April. The temperature at higher altitudes goes up to 20°C. This temperature warms your body enough to enjoy a comfortable walk. You will not be too sweaty, and removing just 1-2 layers will be fine. The nights and mornings are comparatively colder but not freezing like winter.
You can expect temperatures around 3°C to 6°C at night and morning. On some days, the temperature may go below 3°C. We never know it's the Himalayas. Likewise, the wind speed is also average. The weather is mostly stable. The chances of rain or snowfall are very low this month.
Towards the end of May, there could be some occasional rain because the season starts to shift to summer/monsoon. Trekkers who will be on the trail towards the end of May should pack rain gear. The trail condition is fantastic in May, and the sky is mostly clear, as we mentioned earlier.
Therefore, the mountain views are excellent. Above Gorak Shep, the temperature drops to -5°C or below. You will not spend the night above Gorak Shep anyway, so there is no need to worry about it. As the days pass by in May, heat and humidity build-up. Therefore, some occasional thunderstorms and rain may occur.
It will only clean the air and make the mountain views better. May and June are considered the beginning of the climbing seasons in the Himalayas. Mountaineers aim for Mount Everest and other mountains throughout the Himalayas, so you can see large-scale expedition activities in the region.
We recommend that travelers see May in two parts- early May and late May. Early May has everything stable, dry, and excellent. There are chances of rain showers in late May, but the crowd is very low. Choose the trekking period according to what you are looking to experience during the trek.
Namche Bazaar
Everest Base Camp trek temperature in May
The temperature during the Everest Base Camp treks as you ascend. Lower altitudes are definitely hotter than the upper elevations. Likewise, the exposure to the sun is higher at the upper elevation than at the lower altitude.
Below, we have shared the average, minimum, and maximum temperatures of different villages on the EBC trek route in May and find the detail of EBC weather montly. If you are following the standard Everest Base Camp itinerary, you are likely to spend nights in these villages.
Village
Elevation
Average Temperature
Maximum Temperature
Minimum Temperature
Lukla
2,860 m/9,383 ft
12°C
17°C
8°C
Phakding
2,610 m/8,563 ft
13°C
19°C
10°C
Namche Bazaar
3,440 m/11,286 ft
5°C
11°C
-2°C
Tengboche
3,860 m/12,664 ft
4°C
12°C
0°C
Dingboche
4,340 m/14,239 ft
4°C
11°C
-4°C
Lobuche
4,901 m/16,079 ft
-1°C
8°C
-8°C
Gorak Shep
5,164 m/16,942 ft
1°C
7°C
-7°C
Why do the Everest Base Camp trekking in May?
May is one of the ideal times to do the Everest Base Camp trekking, weather and climate-wise. However, there are also many other reasons that make trekking in May fantastic. We have shared our favorite reasons below:
We all know one of the main reasons for trekking in the Everest region or anywhere in the Himalayas is the beautiful landscapes and mountain vistas. There is nothing like a quiet, clear, and powerful view of towering Himalayan mountains. The lush vegetation and rhododendron blossoms make the views even more exotic in May.
The mountains are freshly covered with snow, and the rivers and streams are also gushing with water. The warm temperature welcomes many migratory birds, and occasional rainfall toward the end of May cleans the air and enhances the views.
Teeming vegetation
Usually, trekkers seem to overlook the fact that the Everest region has a unique ecosystem and the vegetation changes with the change in altitude. The EBC trail is inside the Sagarmatha National Park, which is home to many kinds of plants.
The lower elevations are covered with rhododendron and magnolia forests. Likewise, the mid-altitudes are covered with juniper, fir, and pine trees, and higher elevation has alpine meadows and dwarf rhododendrons, edelweiss, and blue poppies.
This vegetation plays a huge role in your trekking experience and the landscapes. Even though you may not be interested in the vegetation, it will add more edge to your journey.
EBC trail in May
The cultural engagement
Nepal will celebrate Buddha Jayanti on May, the birthday of Lord Buddha. In the Everest region, Buddha Jayanti is also a huge festival and gathering for the locals. If you happen to trek around this time, the festivity and celebrations will add more shape to your journey.
If not, you will visit ancient monasteries and get a glimpse of local life. The companionship of the villagers and their stories and myths will make your EBC trek delightful and mythical.
Walking to the Everest Base Camp is more than adventure and achievement. You will learn and experience the simple mountain lifestyle and how humans in these extreme regions live happily.
On-time Lukla flights and scenic aerial views of the Himalayan range during the flights
Lukla is the gateway to the Everest region. 95% of trekkers start and end their journey in this part of the Himalayas with the Lukla flights. The stable weather in May allows the flights to be on time.
There is a very rare possibility of flight cancellation, and even if your flight gets canceled, you will be able to take the next flight on the same day. Likewise, helicopter fights are also available anytime. Thanks to clear weather, the aerial views of the Himalayan range are also surreal during the flights.
Mountain passes are safe to navigate
Mountain passes like Cho La, Renjo La, and Kongma La connect different parts of the Everest region. For instance, you can combine the Everest Base Camp hike with the stunning Gokyo Lake or untouched villages like Lungden by combining mountain passes in your itinerary.
Crossing mountain passes is challenging and is recommended to experienced trekkers. It takes your standard Everest Base camp journey to nothing less than a small expedition. In May, the passes are open and safe to cross. No snow or icy tracks exist, so you can cross them without using snow gear.
The bustle of peak trekking season
May is a delightful time to be in the Everest region or in Kathmandu. You will meet travelers from all around the world in this month. Even though the crowd is comparatively less on the EBC route in May, you will still have a good opportunity to interact with fellow trekkers.
Unlike cities, humans are different in the mountains. They are much more connected and aware of each other. You will not feel alone at all. Probably, the shared passion and desire to reach Everest Base Camp connect them.
Khumbu valley
Ideal conditions for both beginner and experienced trekkers
May is an ideal time for both beginner and experienced trekkers to embark on the Everest Base Camp Odyssey. Beginner trekkers do not have to worry about additional weather challenges or poor trail conditions.
They can focus on trekking, overcome the usual challenges, and enjoy the journey. Likewise, experienced trekkers may consider combining offbeat routes in their itinerary, including high mountain passes.
Drawbacks of the EBC trek in May
Despite being the famous month for the Everest Base Camp trek, May has a few limits or drawbacks. These drawbacks will not affect your journey in any way, but having the idea will save you from unnecessary disappointments.
High Lukla flight, accommodation, and other services price
The demand is high in May, so the prices of Lukla flights, lodges, meals, and other services are high. If you want to travel on a tight budget, consider doing a group trek to Everest Base Camp. The major expenses are divided into groups, so it will cost you a bit less. However, note that with low prices also comes basic service and compromises.
May is part of the peak trekking and mountaineering season. Though the huge crowd leaves the Everest region by the start of May, there will still be a decent number of trekkers and climbers in the region. You will not experience overcrowding, but popular villages like Lukla and Namche Bazaar are bustling.
Weather variability
Regardless of stable weather in May, it is still pre-monsoon, which means you may see sudden rain showers. Likewise, during the afternoon, heavy clouds may block the views and delay the flights in the region. It will not happen regularly, but there are chances.
Melting of snow
As the climate begins to warm up and the temperature rises, the snow starts to melt. It may ruin that perfect snow-capped mountain beauty. At the same time, melting snow and glaciers mean the rivers and streams are gushing with water, which, on the other hand, enhances the scenery.
Everest base camp in May
High altitude challenges
High altitude challenges remain throughout the year whether you trek during peak or off-season. Trekkers have to be aware of altitude sickness and the changing environment. Adjusting to high altitude is very important for a satisfying trip. We highly recommend not to underestimate the effect of high altitude during EBC trekking and follow preventive measures.
Trekking tips for a seamless Everest Base Camp trek experience in May
The EBC route is less busy in May. However, you will still see a good number of trekkers, mostly returning. So, it is a good idea to expect a decent crowd and not get disappointed.
Start trekking early to enjoy the best view, especially if you are trekking during the last two weeks of May. The afternoon may get cloudy as summer/monsoon season approaches.
Pack light but have all the essentials. Do not forget your thermal pieces, and definitely have your rain gear. We also recommend carrying insect repellant.
The climate will be on the warmer side in May, and with the progress of the month, it will only get hotter. Trekkers have to be mindful of consuming water and keep themselves hydrated to maintain their energy and avoid altitude sickness.
Make sure you are physically and mentally ready for the trek. Regardless of the weather, trekking to Everest Base Camp is no joke. You will need to walk 6 hours daily on rugged terrain that constantly ascends and descends. Therefore, your strength and stamina matter a lot.
Make sure you have all the required trekking clothes, gear, and essentials. If you do not want to buy all the gear, consider renting at a very low price in Thamel, Kathmandu. You will save good money by renting trekking gear.
Trekking insurance is highly recommended. It will be your safety net during unseen situations. Cover medical bills and helicopter evacuation in your insurance, and make sure your insurance is available in the Himalayas.
You will enjoy all EBC routes in May. Whether you follow the classic 14 days Everest Base Camp trek itinerary or the challenging three high passes, the journey will be incredible. Not only that, but you may also combine less popular destinations like Ama Dablam Base Camp or Cho Oyu Base Camp in your itinerary.
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 Chhukung
Day 10: Trek from Chhukung to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass
Day 11: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep to spend the night
Day 12: Hike to Kala Patthar and descend to Dzongla
Day 13: Trek from Dzongla to Thangnak via Cho La Pass
Day 14: Trek from Thangank to Gokyo Village
Day 15: Acclimatization day: hike to Gokyo Ri and explore Gokyo Lakes
Day 16: Trek from Gokyo Village to Lumde via Renjo La Pass
Day 17: Trek from Lumde to Namche Bazaar
Day 18: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Day 19: Fly to Kathmandu early in the morning
Day 20: Leisure day in Kathmandu
Day 21: Departure from Kathmandu
Should you do the Everest Base Camp trek alone or with a guide in May?
Trekking with a guide is always superior. It not only guarantees your safety but also assures your comfort and satisfaction. You will learn a lot about the locals of the Everest region, the cultural heritage, vegetation, birds, animals, and, of course, mountains.
Our guides are locals from the Everest region. They know the villages and service providers closely, so you are guaranteed to get the best rooms and services. Likewise, guides will keep you entrained and motivated. They will help you interact with the locals and create many memorable moments.
Without a guide, the Everest Base Camp trek remains incomplete. You may reach the base camp and return to Kathmandu, but the essence of the journey will remain missing. So, we recommend trekking with a guide in May.
Everest Base Camp trek cost in May
Our 16 days Everest Base Camp trek costs USD 1,600 per person in May. Likewise, trekking in a group can lower the price to USD 1,200 per person. Likewise, our Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return package costs USD 2,800 per person. Similarly, the group price ranges between USD 2,300 to USD 2,600 per person, Find the Everest Base camp trek cost detail.
The package cost is inclusive of trekking permits, guide and porter, Lukla flights, accommodation and breakfast in Kathmandu, accommodation and three meals a day during the trek, and all ground transportation as per the itinerary.
Note that tips, travel insurance, shopping, food, bar bills, international flight fares, and Nepal travel visa fees are not included in our package cost. Trekkers can also customize the Everest Base Camp trek with us as per their budget and requirements.
Everest Base Camp trek May packing guide
Packing for the Everest Base Camp trek in May does not need anything special. You need to pack regular trekking clothes and gear. Follow the below packing list while packing for the EBC trek in May and find the detail of the Everest Base Camp Trek packing guide:
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
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: Swiss knife, 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 and snacks
Travel documents: Valid passport (six months of validity), Nepal travel visa, PP size photo, travel insurance paper (medical & rescue), family/company contact number and address, cash, credit card
Conclusion
May is a great time to trek to Everest Base Camp. As May is right around the corner, it is the perfect time to book this trek and get ready for the journey. If you ever wanted to see some of the tallest mountains on Earth closely, this is your sign to get your seat. Contact us if you need any assistance to book the Everest Base Camp trek.
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