Highlights of December Trek to Everest Base Camp
- Magnificent panorama of Mount Everest
- Clear skies and sharp views of the sunrise and sunset
- Empty trails for the uninterrupted hiking
- Celebrating December festivals with the native Sherpas
- More choices for accommodations and meals
- Easily available flights for Lukla
- Dreamy scenery with snow everywhere
How are the weather and temperature at Everest Base Camp in December?
The winter season in Nepal officially begins in December. The bulk of the trail is exposed to considerably below-freezing at night. However, the daytime is typically sunny and clear. It looks incredible, with the mountains covered in snow and the sky clean and blue. With the right equipment and preparation, trekking in December could be a fantastic experience with a rewarding view of the landscapes.
Daytime highs in December will typically hover around 4°C. The minimum temperature at night is often around -14°C. Bear in mind that the nights can get as cold as -38°C. Trekking during the day will make you feel warm from the sun's rays and make the terrain easier for you to move through. But the nights are freezing, so the right gear is essential to withstand the cold.
Expect the sun to be out for about 5-7 hours every day on average in December. These are the average hours during the day when the sun is out and not blocked by clouds. December sees winds with an average daily speed of 12 to 19 kph (about 8-12 mph). Due to the brisk breeze, mornings and nights are typically chilly, but early afternoons are pleasant, with some heat from the sun and less wind.
What are the benefits of trekking to Everest Base Camp in December?
Being off-season, December doesn't have many good reasons to trek to EBC. However, if you're used to the cold and want to experience the thrill that only a few dare to, here are a few benefits of a December trek to the base camp.
Crystal Clear Visuals
The main benefit of an EBC trek in December includes the region's fantastic visibility and clear skies. The vistas are beautiful and fog or cloud-free, attributable to the low level of rainfall. The kind of trekking experience you'll have in December is like strolling beneath a clear sky toward the mountains while taking in the surrounding area's immaculate clarity. The month of December comes first after the end of the peak autumn season. Trekking in the first few days of December will also allow you to experience some of the season's final hues of autumn.
Calm and Less Crowded Trails
The winter season, regarded as the off-season for the EBC Trek, begins in December. The Everest Base Camp routes are more deserted and tranquil in December. There are fewer people on the trail, letting you have uninterrupted views of the immaculate scenery. You can simply stroll in the manner you like without having to consider the crowd. By the way, trekking on the serene Everest region trails in December is much more explorative than on the busy tracks of spring and autumn. Nothing but you and the lovely surroundings.
Easy Accommodations
Finding your preferred lodging in the Everest region is quite impossible during the autumn and spring seasons. Due to the peak trekking season, the lodges and teahouses are crowded with numerous trekkers. However, this is not the case in December, when you may book the accommodations of your choice. The Everest region doesn't see many hikers in December, leaving the lodges unoccupied. As a result, you will receive price breaks on lodging and meals. Additionally, the housing spaces are vacant, allowing you to eat and sleep quietly.
Easy Flight Tickets
You don't have to worry too much about your Lukla flight tickets in December. No reservations are necessary; the tickets are easily accessible. Off-season causes the flights to Lukla to largely empty, which is impossible during peak season. Only you will be able to understand the stress of the Lukla tickets if you are here in any autumn or spring months. As a result, booking flights in December is much more stress-free and relaxing. Also, due to the clear morning skies, there are fewer chances of flight cancellations.
December Festivities
December is a favorite month to commemorate Tamu Lhosar (Practicing Buddhists have their religious calendar, and Lhosar usually falls in December or January). The Tibetan Buddhist New Year is known as Lhosar, but various ethnic groups in Nepal observe various Lhosar festivities, some of which last until the end of February. The Gurung and Tamang people celebrate Tamu Lhosar, a vibrant occasion in Kathmandu.
Christmas is also right around the corner. You can aim to celebrate Christmas in Namche Bazaar or even Kala Patthar! A trek in the foothills of Mount Everest is undoubtedly a memorable way to spend New Year's Eve. Aim to be in Namche Bazaar on December 31 to experience the Himalayan nightlife. There are pubs and restaurants in the small town, but remember that alcohol's effects tend to be more potent and more immediate at altitude, so you don't want to blow your New Year's resolutions.
What are the difficulties of trekking to EBC in December?
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is already a difficult journey. December makes it even more challenging due to the cold winter temperature and its consequences. Here are some difficulties you might have to face during your December trek to EBC. Learn about them and be prepared to tackle them wisely.
Unexpected Snowfalls
The coldest season of the year, winter, begins in December. So, unforeseen snowfalls may occur in the higher elevations. The trail can get tough to navigate due to the snowfall. Without winter gear, it is dangerous to trek on the trails' deep snow. Sometimes the entire route can be blocked by snowfalls. You must be careful while traversing the Himalayas during any time of the year, but in winter, you have got to be extra cautious. Never forget to carry crampons and other winter trekking equipment with you. They may not be as valuable in other seasons, but trekking equipment is a staple in winter!
Getting Stuck on the Journey
Sometimes, it snows a lot in December, to such an extent that heaps and heaps are piling up by the minute. Too much snow could block your trail, and you might have to have a few days of overnight stays in the teahouses. This is why you must have a few extra days at hand. Trekking in the Himalayas is unpredictable, even more so in winter. You should prepare yourself for the better. If it's manageable to continue trekking with appropriate trekking equipment, you can do so. If not, be prepared to spend some days in the middle of nowhere until the trail clears.
Fun Fact: You do not have bulldozers high up in the Himalayas to mark the trail after a heavy snowfall. Yaks are the Himalayas' bulldozer. They never get lost, even when the snowfall is so high. Yaks lead the way to another nearby settlement during extreme snowfall situations.
Possibilities of getting a Frostbite
The Everest region is frigid in December. An extreme drop in temperature may affect your body in more ways than one. Frostbite is one of the common health conditions during winter in the Himalayas when exposed to much cold. Thus, you must understand the importance of carrying the necessary trekking gear. You need layers of clothing, especially for the time you sleep. In Nepal, people do not practice insulating rooms, so you must prepare yourself beforehand with clothing layers. You are also likely to catch frostbite if you do not prepare yourself properly.
Is Hiring Trekking Guides and Potters for the EBC trek in December necessary?
Hiring a guide and a porter is an absolute necessity during the winter trek. When traversing the Himalayas, a guide is of great help. With their years and years' worth of experience trekking in the Himalayas, they know the trail and the region by heart. Similarly, they are full of information that will be more valuable for you during the trek. Likewise, they know what to do in case of emergencies. Having a guide to accompany you during a tour is worth it.
Porters carry your heavy luggage. Your essentials are heavier in December with additional clothing and trekking gear, among other supplies. You do not want to be all exhausted on the trail, do you? Thus, hiring a guide and a porter will make your challenging trekking journey in December a bit more comfortable. Although, the choice is ultimately yours.
Tips for your Winter EBC Trek
- Carry winter trekking gear such as crampons, down jackets and pants, heavy sleeping bags, etc. They come in handy way more than you can expect.
- Layering your clothing is crucial. So, instead of wearing one over-heavy jacket, layer a few lighter woolen clothes so that you can take them off during the day.
- Have a few days at hand, just in case. You never know when the weather will get bad, and you get stuck in the mountains. So, a few extra days will save your expensive return ticket from getting canceled.
- Double-check all your trekking gear. Even if you've missed anything, you can buy them in Kathmandu before leaving for the trek.
- Make sure that your travel insurance is active. We advise you to purchase insurance that covers rescue and emergency evacuation.
- Even if it's cold, drink enough water. You can replace the plain water with ginger tea, garlic soups, and other fluids for a change.
Packing List for EBC December Trek
Here's a rough idea of your packing list for a winter EBC trek. Please consult with your travel operator before finalizing what to carry.
- Sleeping bag
- Hiking socks and boots with sturdy soles
- Crampons
- Camp shoes (Sneakers and Sandals)
- Down jacket and pants
- Waterproof Windstopper Jacket
- Waterproof Lightweight pants
- Trekking T-shirts
- Trekking pants
- Fleece jacket
- Thermal wear
- Extra clothes for layering
- Undergarments
- Woolen caps
- Gloves
- Thick socks
- Backpack and a day pack
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Water bottles
- Guide Book with a Trail map
- Toiletries
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen Cream
- Sun hat
- Scarf
- UV Sunglasses
It is a common misconception that an EBC Trek is not doable in December. Yes, it's a little more complex than other times of the year. Nevertheless, remember that "difficult journeys frequently lead to magnificent destinations." The Trek to Everest Base Camp in December is a serene adventure that enriches your life with more than you anticipate.
We hope we've succeeded in providing you with information regarding the December trek to the Everest Base Camp. We're happy to be at your service if you want to book the trek with us. With 2 decades of experience in the Himalayas, we guarantee you a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trekking experience in the Everest region with our experienced team by your side.
We've available 24/7 for your assistance. Please reach out to us via mail (info@outfitternepal.com) or Whatsapp (+977 9851137385). See you soon in Nepal. Happy Trekking!
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