Everest Base Camp trek is a very adventurous multiple-day hike in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal. From the starting point of the trail to the highest point, the landscape, terrain, and weather drastically changes. In this blog, you will understand the Everest Base Camp trek weather and temperature. This information will help you decide when to trek here and what to expect in each month.
Learning about the weather and climate along the trail will help you a lot in making the most of your trekking expedition. You will have ample information, which will set the right expectation benchmark for you. You will not be surprised even if the weather suddenly changes, and ultimately, it will not ruin your mood because you know it's inevitable.
Everest Base Camp trek starts from Kathmandu at 1,400 meters (4,593 ft). From here, you will take a 30 to 35-minute flight to Lukla and ascend to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters (17,598 ft) and Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (18,192 ft). This elevation change also brings changes in climate, vegetation, and weather. As the blog unfolds, you will learn the month-by-month breakdown of the weather and temperature in the Everest region.
Check out our Everest Base Camp trek cost blog for in-depth information on the money needed for this trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek Weather and Temperature by Month
Find the Month-by-month breakdown of the weather and temperature in the Everest region
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in January
Temperature: The daytime temperature usually reaches a maximum of 4°C, while during the night, the temperature drops to around -17°C.
Estimated hours of daylight: In January, the daylight hours range from 5 to 7, so you have to start trekking early in the morning.
Wind: The average daily wind speed is roughly 12-19 km/hr (about 8-12 mph).
January is the middle of the winter and one of the coldest times in the Everest region. The daylight hours are short, ranging from 5 to 7 hours in the upper part of the region. During the daytime, the temperature ranges around 6°C and can drop below -20°C by midnight/early morning. Snowfall is common, and some lodges in the upper part of the trail get closed.
Likewise, the mornings are frequently shrouded by fog, but by the afternoon the sunrises, making the region brighter and the mountain views excellent. Somedays can be gloomy with no clear sky. The air is cold and crisp. If the day is clear, you will get to witness the best mountain panoramas as the mountains are covered by snow.
Walking towards ebc
In January, there is no crowd. Moreover, the Everest Base Camp trail is almost empty, so trekking can become quite therapeutic with adventurous walks and tranquility. The lodges offer discounted accommodations and meals.
But with all these perks also comes the challenge of cold weather in January. You have to be well-packed and prepared for the trek. Good-quality down jackets, thermal innerwear, warm gloves/socks, hats, and high-quality sleeping bags are essentials. Even with all the challenges, January can be quite a lovely time to do Everest Base Camp trekking for experienced trekkers.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in February
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 4°C during the daytime and drops below -14°C in the night.
Estimated hours of daylight: In February, the daylight hours range from 6 to 7, so you have to start trekking early in the morning.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in February is around 12-19 km/hr (around 8-12 mph).
February is the last month of the winter season. Like January, the weather remains extremely cold, with frequent snowfall and short daylight hours. However, as the days pass by, the climate gradually begins to warm up, and by the end of February, the daylight hours also increase. During the daytime, the temperature ranges around 8°C in the lower altitudes, whereas the nighttime is still extremely cold, with the temperature dropping to -15°C.
February also sees empty trails. If you love solitude and want to experience the serenity of the Everest region, February is another great time for trekking. The mountains are all covered with blankets of white snow, and on clear days, the views are just out of this world. Not many trekkers have seen the Everest region's winter beauty. It is incredible and will take your breath away.
As the winter is also at its peak in February, you have to pack well for the trek. High-quality insulating clothes, thermal wear, and sleeping bags are essential. Likewise, you will also need a trekking boot that has a good grip on snow. As February comes to an end, the landscape gradually begins to change. You can see life back in the lower parts of the trail.
If you are planning to do the Everest Base Camp trek in the winter season, you have to be strong physically and mentally. Winter demands a lot more than any other trekking season. It will test your endurance, patience, and determination. So, be well prepared.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in March
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 7°C during the daytime and drops below -12°C in the night.
Estimated hours of daylight: In March, the average daylight hour is 7.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in March is around 15 km/hr (around 9 mph).
March is the beginning of the spring season, the transitional time in the Himalayas, and also the start of one of the peak trekking seasons. The climate slowly begins to warm up and the weather also gets stable. The average daily temperature is -2°C to 7°C during the daytime and -12°C at night. The daylight hours begin to rise, and the mountain views are much more clear with the bright sky.
The trekkers return to the region. All the lodges are ready to serve them. Gradually, the trail to Everest Base Camp begins to bustle with laughter and joy. Hundreds and thousands of flowers decorate the lower parts of the trail, especially rhododendrons. The leaves are back on the trees, and the streams and waterfalls start to unfreeze.
As the month progresses, the valleys and passes begin to melt as well, making the trails accessible once again. The cold is still there but not as intense as in February. There could be occasional snowfall in March, which indicates that the season is changing. If you wish to do the EBC trek in peak season but avoid the crowd, thendo the Everest Base Camp trek at the start of March. The trails are still serene, with only a handful of trekkers.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in April
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 10°C during the daytime and drops below -5°C in the night. The daytime gets warm, so dress in layers and remove them as needed.
Estimated hours of daylight: In April, the average daylight hour is 7 to 8.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in April is around 15 km/hr (around 9 mph).
April is the peak of the spring season. It is one of the best times to do the Everest Base Camp trekking because of the stable weather and moderate climate. The trekking route all around the Everest region and other parts of the Himalayas sees a bustle of travelers from all around the world. The daylight hours range from 7 to 8, and the sky remains mostly bright and clear.
With the beginning of April, the Lukla flights are also mostly on time. There are fewer delays and a rare chance of flight cancellation. With better weather conditions, you can trek in the Everest region without having a contingency day in your itinerary. Likewise, if you love birds, then April is a great time as various bird species migrate to the region.
By April, the EBC trail will be packed with travelers. While packing for the trek, make sure to bring some warm pieces, too. Focus on layering!
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in May
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 20°C during the daytime and drops to around -10°C at night. The daytime gets warm, so dress in layers and remove them as needed.
Estimated hours of daylight: In May, the average daylight hour is 7 to 8.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in May is around 15 km/hr (around 9 mph).
May is the last month of spring. It is also the best time to climb mountains in the Himalayas. The excellent weather conditions in the month make trekking to the Everest Base Camp spectacular. The temperatures are relatively mild, with daytime averages at the base camp ranging between -2°C to -5°C. The nights can get colder, reaching around -10°C. Likewise, the temperature can reach up to 20°C in the lower part of the trail during the daytime.
As May is the last month of the spring, the crowd is relatively low. Most trekkers have already left the EBC trail or are on the return journey to Lukla. However, you will see many mountaineers at the base camp. The landscape in May is surreal and adorned with the beauty of blooming rhododendron flowers at lower altitudes. Likewise, the upper part of the trail boasts barren, rocky sceneries.
The trail is in the best condition. As the next season is monsoon, there could be occasional rainfall in lower elevations, signaling the change in season. With the right preparation, including proper acclimatization, suitable gear, and pre-arranged accommodations, trekking to Everest Base Camp in May promises an unforgettable experience.
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 25°C during the daytime and drops to around 0°C at night. The weather is quite unstable, so you need to pack all kinds of clothing, including warm, waterproof, and light, breathable.
Estimated hours of daylight: In June, the average daylight hour is 11 per day. This month has longer daytime and shorter nighttimes.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in June is around 16 km/hr (around 9 mph). The morning and evening times are usually chilly in the higher regions.
June marks the beginning of the summer/monsoon season. It brings unpredictable weather and gloomy days. The Lukla flights may not be on time most of the time, so contingency days are important in the itinerary. Even though it is the start of monsoon season, the full impact may not hit the region. So, if you plan well, you can do the EBC trek in June.
The daytime temperature ranges from 25°C to 15°C in different elevations. During the night, the temperature ranges between 0°C to 8°C. While there's a potential for some rain, cloudy sky, and reduced visibility, these factors do not significantly hinder the trek. Trails may become slightly muddy, but they remain navigable, adding a touch of adventure to the journey.
As June is the start of another off-trekking season in Nepal, the number of trekkers decreases significantly, making the trails around the Himalayas almost empty. This creates a more intimate and tranquil experience with nature, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the Everest region without the crowds.
The monsoon rains bring a refreshing touch to the flora, transforming the landscape into lush, green surroundings. Despite the wet conditions, the overall trekking experience is enhanced by the vibrant colors and rejuvenated environment. You have to pack waterproof clothing for trekking in June.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in July
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 32°C during the daytime in lower elevations and drops to around 0°C at night around EBC. The weather is unstable, and you need to pack all kinds of clothing, including warm, waterproof, and breathable.
Estimated hours of daylight: In July, the average daylight hour is 7 to 8 per day.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in July is around 16 km/hr (around 9 mph). The humidity is high as well.
July is the peak of the monsoon season in Nepal. The lower part of the trail is in its poorest condition during this month because of heavy rainfall. The trails are muddy and slippery, and some sections have leeches as well. Most hilly areas are on high alert for landslides, including the trekking routes. Likewise, the rivers, streams, and waterfalls are raging with rainwater.
Expect frequent rainfall, which can vary from drizzles to heavy downpours. Despite being summer, temperatures are still relatively cool at higher altitudes. Around Everest Base Camp, temperatures range from 10°C during the day to -5°C at night. Likewise, the lower elevation has higher temperature. The humidity is at its peak this month, and the clouds block the views often.
July is not an ideal time for Everest Base Camp trekking because of elevated weather challenges. However, the trails are empty, and the prices of accommodation and meals are low along the way. Some tea houses may close during the monsoon season. Likewise, flight delays and cancellations to and from Lukla are more common.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in August
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 30°C during the daytime in lower elevations and drops to around -1°C at night around EBC. The weather is unstable, and you need to pack all kinds of clothing, including warm, waterproof, and breathable.
Estimated hours of daylight: In August, the average daylight hour is 6 to 7 per day.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in August is around 16 km/hr (around 9 mph). The humidity is high as well.
August is the last month of the summer/monsoon season. The weather is similar to in July with heavy regular rainfalls and cloudy days. The trails are muddy and slippery due to rainfall. Trekking can be more challenging during this time, and proper footwear with good traction is essential. Likewise, the risk of landslides remains, particularly in areas with steep terrain.
The humidity is also quite high, and the temperature ranges from 15°C to -1°C. On days with no rainfall, the temperature rises above 30°C in the lower part of the trails. As the weather is unpredictable in August, you will come across fog, gloomy days, heavy downpours, drizzles, and occasional bright, clear days.
While there may be breaks in the weather, the overall visibility of the Himalayan peaks might still be limited, and clear views are not guaranteed. August is the last month of the off-season, and there are fewer trekkers on the trail. If you appreciate a quieter experience and are prepared for challenging conditions, you may consider trekking to EBC in August.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in September
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 20°C during the daytime and drops to around -5°C at night around EBC. The weather gradually gets stable.
Estimated hours of daylight: In September, the average daylight hour is 7 to 8 per day.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in September is around 8-11 km/hr (around 5-7 mph).
September starts the final peak trekking season of the year in Nepal. September is a transitional month, so you will see a mixed weather pattern. The weather begins to transition into clearer skies and more stable conditions. There could be occasional rainfall till the second of this month. Gradually, the climate begins to get cold with crisp air. The trekkers return to the trails.
The first two weeks of September see empty trails, so it is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek if you wish to escape the crowd of peak season. Trails start to dry up as the monsoon subsides, reducing the mud and slipperiness. However, some sections might still be wet, so good trekking shoes are essential. With the decrease in rainfall and clearing skies, September provides better opportunities for clear views of the Himalayan mountains.
Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, offering a comfortable trekking environment. Nighttime temperatures may still drop between -1°C to -5°C, especially at higher altitudes. There is a good balance between the end of the monsoon season and the onset of colder winter weather. By the end of September, the weather gets stable, making it easier to trek and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in October
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 10°C to 20°C.
Estimated hours of daylight: In October, the average daylight hour is 8 to 9 per day.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in October is around 8-11 km/hr (around 5-7 mph). The humidity is high as well.
October is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek. The trail is crowded with trekkers from all around the world. The environment is joyful and lovely. Likewise, the mountain views are breathtaking and clear. The monsoon rain clears the sky, making the air quite refreshing, and there is a very soothing hint of coldness in the climate. The weather remains dry and stable, perfect for trekking.
The trails are almost dried up, reducing the chances of mud and slippery conditions. The daytime temperatures in October range from 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes. Likewise, nighttime temperatures may still be chilly, especially at higher elevations. The autumn season brings vibrant colors to the landscapes.
As October is a popular month for trekking, accommodations along the trail can fill up quickly, so you have to make early bookings. The EBC trek in October may coincide with Dashain, the biggest festival in Nepal. This adds a cultural dimension to the overall trekking experience. While daytime temperatures are moderate, it's essential to pack layers for varying temperatures.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in November
Temperature: The temperature ranges around 18°C during the daytime in lower elevations and drops to around -10°C at night around EBC.
Estimated hours of daylight: In November, the average daylight hour is 7 to 8 per day.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in November is around 8-13 km/hr (around 5-8 mph). The humidity is high as well.
November is the last month in the autumn season and also brings the hint of winter by the middle of the month. This month is also a peak time for trekking in the Everest region due to favorable weather conditions. The sky remains clear with dry weather and moderate humidity. The daylight hours are also good, ranging from 7 to 8.
EBC Trek in November offers some of the best mountain views of the entire year. The skies are clear, and visibility is excellent. In November, you'll witness the autumn foliage, with colorful leaves on trees like rhododendrons. The landscapes are vibrant, adding to the scenic beauty of the trek.
The daytime temperatures at lower altitudes range from 6°C to 18°C, and nighttime temperatures can drop around -10°C in the upper part of the trail. The crowd gradually begins to lower, offering a tranquil environment once again. Although November is less crowded than October, it's still a popular month for trekking, so booking teahouse accommodations in advance is recommended.
Everest Base Camp weather and temperature in December
Temperature: Throughout December, daytime temperatures will generally be around 4°C to 12°C. At night, the average minimum temperatures drop down to around -14°C.
Estimated hours of daylight: In November, the average daylight hour is 5 to 7 per day.
Wind: The average daily wind speed in November is around 12-19 km/hr (around 8-12 mph). The humidity is high as well.
December starts the long, dark winter in the Himalayas. The weather begins to get quite unpredictable, and the cold rises. You can still do the EBC trek in December; however the Lukla flight may begin to see a lot more delays than in November. The possibility of snowfall is high at upper elevations.
Trails can be covered with snow and ice, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. This can make trekking more challenging, and proper gear, such as trekking poles and crampons, may be necessary. December offers clear skies, providing good visibility of the snow-covered landscapes, but the unstable weather may disrupt the views on some days.
Most of the vegetation has shed its leaves, and the landscapes may appear more barren compared to other seasons. The daytime temperatures at lower altitudes can range from 4°C to 12°C, but temperatures drop significantly at upper altitudes (-14°C). With fewer trekkers on the trail, you can enjoy a more peaceful and serene trekking experience.
In this blog, we will talk about the Everest Base Camp trek in September in detail. September is the start of the autumn season in Nepal, which is one of the [...]
July and August are not the most popular time for trekking to the Everest Base Camp. These months are the peak of summer and monsoon season in Nepal. Monsoons especially affect [...]
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 [...]
