December Weather Forecast for Everest Base Camp Trek
In December, the Everest Base Camp Trek weather can be utterly chilly and unforeseeable. Temperatures in Everest Region usually range from below-freezing zero degrees to around 10 degrees Celsius (14 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day but can drop significantly lower at night, mainly at higher elevated terrain.
Ensure that trekking preparation is a major concern before embarking on an Everest Base Camp journey. So, be ready to overcome various conditions on the trekking route including snowfalls and strong winds. Normally, the days will be shorter, with limited daylight hours, so it’s crucial to plan your trekking timetable appropriately. Regardless of the cold, Everest Base Camp in December will amaze the adventurer with awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks and a peaceful trekking experience compared to the busier spring and autumn seasons.
- Significant Aspects of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
- Experience the thrilling mountain flight from Kathmandu to the most challenging airport in Lukla.
- Traverse through adventurous trekking trails filled up with snow.
- Enjoy the route passes through lush forests, gleaming rivers, suspension bridges, cascading waterfalls, quaint Sherpa settlements and tranquil lakes.
- Set yourself in the lap of top world’s glorious base camp of Mt. Everest (8848m).
- Surround yourself with majestic high Himalayas like Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak etc.
- Revel in the astounding sunrise over Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar.
- Discover one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Nepal – Sagarmatha National Park.
- Visit and explore the renowned ancient Tengboche monastery.
- Immerse yourself into the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions of the Sherpa people.
Advantages of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in December provides a magnificent experience, despite some challenges presented by the climate. Look out for some advantages listed below:
Picturesque Beauty
Everest Base Camp in December is considered a cold season but the sky is crystal clear and it offers sunny days. The trail will be enjoyable on a scenic mesmerizing landscape in the time as well it grants excellent visibility of the astounding views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks.
Tranquil Trail
December month is contemplated as the off-season for any trekking in Nepal but it is possible during that time. So, the trail will not be so much crowded and the journey will be amazing with your peaceful mindset. You may encounter some of the tourists on the trail to interact with. Walk in the tranquil trail as you embark on the Everest Base Camp Trek in December and witness glimpses of Mt. Everest and others throughout the journey.
Cultural Encounter
Everest Base Camp in December offers the trekkers to delve into the unique cultures and traditions of the Sherpa people while staying in teahouses. As well December is the month of Christmas and New Year, so grab a chance to celebrate it in a typical way that the locals enjoy. Make sure to gain insights about how the lifestyles are living in such a remote area. It will be an amazing experience for sure!
Accommodation Availability
December month is off-season so, there would get access to rooms as you desire to be in. Different types of accommodations are available on the Everest Base Camp route so it depends upon trekkers to relieve themselves on luxury lodges or normal teahouses.
Challenges and Adventures
EBC Trek in December bestows challenges and adventures along the trail due to the cold weather conditions which makes the landscape snowy and difficult to ascend. The snowy landscapes showcase the Khumbu region's amazing beauty but at the same time, it adds more challenges and adventures to achieve the dream destination Everest Base Camp.
Incredible scenery
Undoubtedly, the trek to Everest in December never fails to impress with the breathtaking Himalayan scenery along with the stunning Khumbu icefall. The crystal-clear sky offers clear views of the world’s top mountains along with the surrounding spectacular mountains. Marvel at the astonishing creations of nature crafted by the divine hand, and capture countless memories to cherish for a lifetime!
Distinctive Experience
As compared to other seasons, Trek in December truly offers a unique experience of walking in snow-filled landscapes, unbelievable scenery, rich cultures, traditions etc. In time, the weather will challenge you in extreme conditions at the time it will be a new learning about how to tackle the situation.
However, December Everest Base Camp necessitate lots of preparation, proper gear for cold weather, and being concerned about the potential risk of altitude-related challenges. Make sure to travel with an experienced professional guide and be well-equipped for the upcoming conditions.
Disadvantages of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Everest Base Camp Trek in December also have disadvantages at certain points of trekking while it offers stunning scenery and magnificent cultures. Let’s delve into the facts that may cause problems while trekking.
Cold Weather
The primary disadvantages of Everest Treks during December are cold weather conditions. Temperatures in the Everest Region usually range from below-freezing zero degrees to around 10 degrees Celsius (14 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day but can drop significantly lower at night, mainly at higher elevated terrain. This makes trekking more demanding and thrilling.
Limited Teahouses
The teahouses wouldn’t be packed as December is off-season for trekking but most of the teahouses are closed due to weather conditions and limited visitors. So, ensure not to be in such conditions, the agency you are going with will handle such situations no matter what.
Unpredictable Weather conditions
December falls within the winter seasons so in Everest/ Khumbu, there would be chances of snowfalls and unpredictable weather as it is already in higher altitude terrain. This can lead to trekking delays, route closures, and potential safety hazards.
Shorter Daylight Hours
In December, daylight hours are shorter, which diminishes the amount of time available for trekking each day. Trekkers need to start early and plan their daily itinerary carefully to conclude the trek mostly in daylight.
Risk of Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness is a major concern while trekking Everest in December, however, there are some preventions to follow and get acquainted with it. Mainly symptoms arise as you trek in the higher altitudes so proper acclimatization and maintaining a hydration level the crucial throughout the journey.
Moreover, the journey can be attainable by following some preventive measures and great preparation.
Difficulty of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Everest Base Camp Trek during December will be moderately challenging trekking requiring a good level of physical as well as mental fitness. No need for prior trekking experience while trekking to the world’s top destination in December. Well, this trek can be quite hard if you are not well prepared and understand the challenges this world-renowned adventure constitutes.
Trekking to Everest in December requires a 12-14 days meticulous walk through lush green dense forest, steep country roads, and challenging climbs but it’s not a technical climb and if you’re fit enough, mentally and physically, you are more than likely to be up to the challenge. Trekking at high altitudes is a challenging adventure that usually spans over 10 days or more. Be prepared for the challenges that arise along the Everest route.
Cost of Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in December is an incredible and unique experience, but it comes with a cost. When considering trekking to Everest Base Camp in December, it’s important to factor in all the associated costs. The cost of trekking to Everest Base Camp varies based on the company you choose and the type of services they offer.
Companies offer different packages that include varying levels of comfort and amenities. The more luxurious packages will be more expensive, while budget-friendly packages are available for those looking for a more basic experience. Additionally, some companies may also offer discounts for booking ahead or during off-peak seasons.
Permits are required when trekking to Everest Base Camp and must be purchased before starting the journey. The permits are issued by the Nepal Tourism Board and can range from $50 per person depending on nationality.
Food expenses vary greatly depending on where you stay during your journey – hotels will be more expensive than teahouses – as well as dietary preferences and any snacks or supplies you buy along the way. On average, expect to spend around $30-$55 a day for meals. Lodging expenses vary based on where you choose to stay each night – luxury lodges are usually double the price of teahouses - but generally range from $10-$25 per night for a shared room with two beds at a teahouse.
Note: It may fluctuate depending on the time of the year and the increasing prices of some products over several years.
Altitude Sickness during EBC Trek in December
Mostly, Altitude sickness occurs as you ascend to the higher altitudes. In this case, also, Altitude Sickness is an immense hurdle during December Everest Base Camp Trekking. The risk of altitude sickness is very high. Although, proper planning always helps you to keep away from altitude sickness.
Here are some major tips to follow while at higher elevations to avoid Altitude Sickness:
- Drink lots of water to stay hydrated all the time.
- Take your time and maintain a compatible walking speed.
- Steer clear of oily foods.
- Avoid consuming alcohol at altitudes exceeding 3000 meters.
- Eat proper food and Sleep well.
- Take acclimatization seriously.
If you seriously follow these things during the trek, you can surely conquer the base camp of Mt. Everest.
Outline Itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu – Lukla [2,840m] by flight, 35 mins – Trek from Lukla to Phakding, 3-4 hrs trek
Day 3: Trek from Phakding – Namche Bazaar 6-8 hrs
Day 4: Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization and Exploration Day
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar – Tengboche 5-6 hrs
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche - Dingboche 5-6 hrs
Day 7: Dingboche: Acclimatization and Exploration Day
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche – Lobuche 4-5 hrs
Day 9: Trek from Lobuche – Gorakshep [5,160m] – Everest Base Camp [5,364m] – Gorakshep, 7-8 hrs
Day 10: Trek from Gorakshep – Kalapatthar [5,545m] – Pheriche [4,280m] 7-8 hrs
Day 11: Trek from Pheriche – Namche Bazaar 8-9 hrs
Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar – Lukla 7-8 hrs
Day 13: Flight from Lukla – Kathmandu 35 min flight.
Day 14: Departure
Everest Trekking Permits
Everest Base Camp Treks situated in Sagarmatha National Park; a UNESCO World Heritage site of Nepal allows travellers to delve into the beauty of the Khumbu region. However, trekkers require two permits to set foot on the base camp of the world’s highest Mount Everest. Look out for a listing:
Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
However, you’ll obtain these permits from the Tourism Board of Nepal. Visit the office with the documents including original passport, passport-sized photos, valid visas and permit fees. Your guide will assist you in acquiring those permits.
Cost of Everest Base Camp Permits
Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
For Foreign Nationals – NRS 2000
For SAARC Nationals - NRS 2000
First four weeks the price will be as same as above after 4 weeks the price goes to NRS 2500 per person (no VAT included)
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
For Foreign Nationals – NRS 3000 +13% VAT per person
For SAARC Nationals - NRS 1500 + 13% VAT per person
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Essential Gears and Equipment for Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Here is the complete essential list of equipment for the Everest base camp trek. The weight of your luggage is limited up to 9 kg, so, therefore, we advise you to carry only essential items. In case you require to carry more than 9 kg, we can arrange porters.
Head Wear
- Warm insulated winter hat / Wooly hat
- Sun hat / Wide-brimmed hat
- Scarf
- Neck gaiter or Fleece Buff (Optional)
- Neoprene face mask (Optional)
- Balaclava / Bally ski mask / Monkey cap (Optional)
- LED Headlamp × 2 and spare batteries
Face/ Body care items
- Sunscreen with SPF above 50
- Sunglasses with UV protection × 2 pairs
- Face/body cleansing wipes (biodegradable wipes)
- Moisturizer lotion for face/body
- Lip balm
Hand Wear
- Liner gloves × 2 pairs
- Fleece gloves × 2 pairs
Body Wear
- Hiking shirts × 2 pairs
- Full-sleeved thermal undershirts × 2 pairs
- Fleece jacket
- Waterproof and windproof hooded rain jacket
- Down jacket (thick down jacket for winter treks)
- Polypropylene underwear × 5-6 pairs
- Synthetic material hiking pants × 2 pairs
- Long johns × 2 pairs
- Sweater
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Lightweight cotton pants
- T-shirt
Foot Wear
- Woollen socks × 6 pairs (thick light socks)
- Lightweight shoes/scandals
- Hiking Boots
Essential Gear
- Backpack
- Day pack for basics
- Waterproof covers for your bags and packs
- Thermal water bottle (hydration bladder often freezes in winter)
- Sleeping bag (rated at least 0°C for summer and -15° for winter)
- Water purification tablets, drops or portable water purifier/filter bottles or, gadgets
- Trekking pole
- Crampons
- Large plastic bags and stuff sacks
Personal Toiletries
- Medium size towel
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Biodegradable bar soap
- Deodorant
- Nail clippers
- Small mirror
- Toilet papers
- Shampoo
- Personal Accessories
- Money
- Watch
- Cell phone
- Camera
- Lighter
- Pocket knife
Extra items/ Travel gear
- First aid kit
- Extra passport photos and photocopies of passport Travel insurance documents
- Notebook and pen
- Books
- Personal entertainment
- Binoculars
- International electrical adapter
Conclusions
Everest Base Camp in December might be cold and quite challenging but the sense of accomplishment will truly relieve all the difficulties and hurdles while being busy relishing the incredible scenery of Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Amadablam and many peaks as well as glorious Khumbu icefall.
Ensure with the travellers who have conquered the Everest Base Camp in December and plan the journey with full excitement of retracing the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary & Tenzing Norway. Conquering Everest Base Camp is not an easy task but it can be possible throughout the year.
No need to worry about the hurdles that may occur during the EBC Trek in December, The Eternal Himalaya Team is always there to prioritize the client’s safety and flexibility. However, gather all essential equipment and winter attire for the suitable journey and prepare yourself a couple of months before embarking. Lastly, always trek under the guidance of experts and with thorough preparation
