Have you ever fantasized about being at the foot of the tallest mountain in the world? The Everest Base Camp Trek is a true mountain adventure that lures all individuals to have glimpses of some of the best mountain scenery the world over. A view of the biggest mountains like Everest, with a height of 8,848 meters, Nuptse, and the stunning Ama Dablam accompany the trail. At every step, there are different spectacles of giant glaciers, steep valleys, and colorful villages inhabited by lively locals.
But here's the catch: the weather at Everest Base Camp changes more than one can keep track of, over the year. And believe me, you want to be sure about what you are stepping into before you start packing your bags! Depending on your entry, mountain weather can make or break your plans. Certain months are favorable for the trek, whereas others are disastrous to her as well as downright dangerous. The weather will comprise temperature, snow, rain, and, above all, the wind that will determine your trekking experience.
Information regarding the weather of every month helps to select the best month for your trek to the Everest region. Bad timing can be the flip side of a great adventure. A clear view of the mountains with good gear marks the chosen month to trek for an enjoyable journey. Each season would pose different challenges and rewards. Spring and autumn, being the most preferred, present some semblance of stable weather. The winters are cold with heavy snow, and, in summer, there are so many clouds that you can hardly see the hills. The idea is that you will know what to expect so that you can put on appropriate clothes, plan out your routes, and also be ready for everything.
In this blog, we will describe the month-by-month weather conditions at Everest Base Camp and provide you with tips, scenery, temperature range, and the feel of each season, so you can decide which season to spend your adventure in and reach the almighty height of Kala Patthar.
How does weather vary on the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek?
The weather of the Everest region changes dramatically with altitude. Lower altitudes like Lukla and Namche Bazaar stay pretty warm with comfort. However, at higher altitudes, nature turns very unfamiliar. In good seasons and especially during spring and autumn, the daytime feels pleasant, but freezing-like conditions are there at night, even for some warmer months. This is something which many a trekker could never have imagined to be so different. The weather is unsteady at these high altitudes. One moment it is sunny skies and clear, and hour after the weather is hit with clouds. Such sudden changes are a type of weather pattern in the Himalayas. With the onset of monsoon rains in summer, the trail gets all slippery and dangerous, with clouds blocking the sight of the mountains. Winter is for snow and very cold weather, and spring is for stable weather, most suitable for trekking.
Why is understanding weather and temperature necessary for EBC Trek?
The weather and temperature of Everest Base Camp must be known not just for knowing but for being able to plan safety and success. Knowledge of the weather will enable you to decide on the type of gear you might have to carry and when the trek will be best.
Especially when you combine EBC with Three Passes Trek or any other expeditions, the weather will affect your trek as choosing the right season and weather conditions remains crucial at higher elevations. Being at high altitude means temperatures drop really fast, especially at night, so you've got to be equipped accordingly. The impact of monsoon on trekking is huge. Trails become muddy and temperatures rise to dangerous levels during the monsoon months, and a lot of flights to Lukla get cancelled because of such weather. Spring and autumn are your best friends for trekking. They are dry seasons, offering clear skies and stable weather. You get to see Mount Everest rather than staring at clouds all day.
The weather also influences acute mountain sickness. Cold air and unstable weather conditions aggravate the mechanism of adjustment of the human body to thin air. It can cause stomach uneasiness or dizziness midway through climbing. Considering the Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return, weather windows become a vital factor since helicopters can't fly in storms blocked by thick clouds.
Every month poses a challenge of its own. Winter means snow and freezing temperatures, while it's monsoon and poor visibility come summer. Hence, one needs to weigh in seasonal temperature shifts with weather fluctuations so one could decide what time to head out for trekking and avoid harsh experiences.
Everest Base Camp Weather and Temperature by Month
January: Winter Cold yet Clear Skies
The January weather at Everest Base Camp presents the coldest conditions but would offer some of the clearest views of the mountains. The weather of the Everest region during winter is rough but spectacular. Daytime average temperatures range between minus 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, and average night temperatures are below minus 20 degrees Celsius. The outright lovely thing about the winter in the Everest season is that the skies stay clear for the better days. The air being so dry and crisp almost certainly carves crystal-clear mountain views. Mount Everest looks very majestic against the azure backdrop of the winter sky.
Stupa in Khumjung with backdrop view of mountain
Most tea houses on the trails remain closed during January because the temperature is too low, and trekking is unsafe. The trails can stay ice-hard or snow-covered, which is not fit for walking. Only well-experienced trekkers dare to go for the January tour, and they need special winter equipment. With the right training program and a good plan, one can safely accomplish this trek during the peak of the cold months and have the opportunity to witness the winter wonderland.
February: End of Winter
The weather in February at the Everest Base Camp marks the slow ending of the harsh winter, which remains so cold and challenging to overcome. The temperatures then slowly begin to rise slightly, compared to January, but do not get ready to think of comfort yet. The average temperatures do drop to as low as minus 15 degrees Celsius at night, but during sunny days the temperatures may reach as high as about minus 2 to 5 degrees Celsius.
February also falls into the dry weather season, so expect the skies to remain clear, accompanied by magnificent visibility of the mountain range, to present a crystal-clear view of the famous peaks. The only downside is that these days, you will see a stronger wind, which makes the cold feel colder than it is.
In many places, trails still have a good bit of snow and ice in some sections. Most of the local tea houses remain closed, so looking for accommodation turns into a rather difficult task. A few tea houses start preparing to reopen toward the end of February, but the facilities remain very limited. Even though weather patterns in February have greater stability than what the months of winter offer, it still can be a bit much for new trekkers.
March: Marvelous Transition to Warmer Days
Everest Base Camp weather for March brings a thrill of changes as winter slowly gives way to spring weather. During this period, it has been very noticeable that temperature changes. On sunny days, the temperature can reach somewhere between 5-10 degrees Celsius, which is very warm, especially after what seems to be almost all too cold in winter months. Night temperatures stay cold average of minus 10 degrees Celsius. March begins the high season for trekking. The weather becomes pretty stable, and most tea houses begin to reopen. You will see the first signs of spring through green patches at certain lower altitudes. The weather is much more favorable for trekking compared to winter months.
trekking in everest region during spring season
The precipitation still stays low during March, giving you higher chances to see the clear mountain views. Afternoon clouds can sometimes build up, though, so the views from the morning tend to be better. As snow melts in the lower altitudes, the trails become more accessible. This is a good time to consider the Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek as facilities are reopening and the weather is improving, which also allows you to stay in the best lodges and hike with ease even in early March. These weather patterns in March are unfolding the coming of spring, thus making it one of the first months when regular trekking will be possible again.
April: Thriving Rhododendrons and Peak Time
The weather at Everest Base Camp in April is considered most amiable, and the ideal months for trekking are just beginning. The month witnesses flowers of the famous rhododendron in full bloom, coloring the whole Khumbu region into a garden. Temperatures are quite comfortable during the day, going at a range of 10 to 15 degrees Celsius and still remaining cold but bearable at night, at a range of minus 5 degrees Celsius.
The month of April is very much considered the most suitable month for trekking into Everest since the weather stays settled and pleasant. The weather for most days of spring has clear skies, which makes it fascinating to look at the grandeur of the mountain tapestry. The rhododendron forest begins to show its pink, red, and white flowers, and gives amazing views on the way.
The monsoon season doesn't come early, hence rainfall is very low. Such weather ensures that the visibility remains great, and so do safe trail conditions. All the tea houses are open, and the services are quite excellent. The sky is very reliable in April, and you can get to enjoy spectacular views in the mornings and evenings. Many trekkers choose the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek during April because the longer route showcases the beautiful rhododendron forests perfectly. The combination of comfortable temperatures at Everest Base and blooming flowers makes April truly magical for any trekking experience in the region.
May: Warmest Days and Weather Clarity
Everest Base Camp weather in May is the warmest, gentlest, and most comfortable one can find throughout the entire year. This would be when the daytime temperature hits its peak, ranging anywhere from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius under the shining afternoons. Even the temperatures at night are pleasant enough to sleep; they normally lie between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius, hence sleeping would be much comfortable. But later on in the month, humidity levels begin to increase, indicating the time of the monsoon season approaching.
May is regarded as the absolute best month to trek to Everest Base Camp. The weather offers immense perfection, waking up amidst clear skies and views of all the mountain peaks. Weather conditions are stable and are mostly predictable during this period while rhododendron flowers are still in bloom.
Hence, it is a continuing dry season in May, with barely any rain and excellent mountain visibility. Almost every day, Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks are clear. The trails at lower elevations are quite immaculate, with no traces of snow or ice. All the facilities located along the route are working at full capacity as it is also a busy month. However, because May is the peak season, the trails can be quite crowded.
June: Glimpse of Monsoon With Rising Humidity
Everest Base Camp weather denotes change starting from June as the onset of monsoon brings with it changing weather into the Everest region. Daytime temperature remains pleasant and tends to range largely from 12 to 18 degrees Celsius, but the weather feels moist and uncomfortable. Night temperature almost stays the same between 2 degrees to 8 degrees Celsius, which is rather pleasant.
June begins to really witness monsoon impacts on trekking, with building clouds and a few sprinkles of rain occurring in the afternoon. Morning views are generally clear, but clouds tend to build up, hiding the mountains in the afternoon. Chances of weather fluctuations are rampant on the high altitudes during this month, but it brings the flora to life as they start to turn light green.
The amount of precipitation progressively takes an upward climb in the latter half of the month. There could still be afternoon rain showers, but the heavy downpour nature of the full monsoon is not yet here. It is possible to get into accidents by falling on slippery slopes that are wet in the mountains. The experienced trekkers believe that early June is good trekking time, but it becomes harder over the days. What you can do is just venture out on EBC Trek with Helicopter Return, which ensures that you enjoy the hike to the base camp of Everest fully, and later, after submitting Kala Patthar, you will be directly get a direct ride from Gorakshep to Lukla or KTM, avoiding the retracement and also challenges.
July: Monsoon at Its Highest, Heavy Rainfall and High Fogging
The weather in July at EBC experiences the full onslaught of the monsoon season. From the atmospheric point onwards, this month provides harsh weather conditions for any trekking. The temperature of the day stays between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius and when there is heavy rainfall without any break, it becomes chilly and unpleasant. At 5 and 10 degrees of Celsius temperature all the nights, and moisture makes everything appear in a wet and cold condition. The downpours in July are the trouble-maker as they make paths muddy, slippery and dangerous to walk along.
July weather patterns prevail with so much fog and thick clouds that the mountains are not visible. The peaks might not appear to you even several days in a row as the monsoon clouds cover them most of the time. In spite of all these hardships, the landscape is still green and flourishing, surrounded by waterfalls and growing vegetation.
The impact of the monsoon on trekking becomes severe in July. Many flights to Lukla are canceled because of bad weather; trails become downright dangerous with landslides and floods. For the ones who want to enjoy a quick time at Everest in harsh weather, the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour can be an option to see the land without hiking through heavy rains.
August: Strenuous Trekking
EBC weather for August continues the harsh monsoon season conditions, resulting in it being considered one of the most difficult months to undertake a trek. The heavy rains, coupled with an extremely high humidity factor, make the trek very laborious and hardly pleasant. At temperatures of around 12-16 degrees Celsius in the daytime, it is also very tough. The night temperatures stay between 6 to 12 degrees Celsius, and since it happened to be raining throughout the day, everything is wet. Clothes, sleeping bag, and gear will almost certainly remain damp most of the time, which would chill more than the actual temperature.
Much like in July, the weather presents great challenges in August: heavy clouds, dense fog, and practically no mountain visibility. The most celebrated views of the mountains are covered with monsoon clouds. The weather remains highly unpredictable; with sudden thunderstorms, it can bring downpours able to wash away anything laid out below.
Trekking in August is life-threateningly strenuous under the monsoon's rain. Trails get muddy, leeches multiply at the lower altitudes, and suddenly, a landslide can block the way ahead. With weather changes being very sudden at high altitude, it gets very unsafe for a lot of trekking enthusiasts.
September: Peak Season Returns with Clear Skies
In September, Everest Base Camp weather marks the exciting return of suitable trekking conditions after the challenging monsoon season. Autumn starts with sunny days of 12 to 17 degrees, and is just perfect for walking. The night temperature falls back to 0 to 5 degrees Celsius, thus very pleasant for its evenings.
The skies are clear once again, much to the delight of trekkers, in September. With the monsoon no longer influencing trekking trails, different weather fluctuations start settling down. You will observe that fresh and crisp air with startling mountain visibility replaces the opaque clouds of the rainy season.
With September comes the perfect weather when heavy rains stop and green coverings from the monsoon trails are still around. This month gives mountain views and greenery in harmony. It's now up to the trekkers to choose between seeing clear mountain views or green landscapes. The second peak time to trek starts this month. Tea houses here are fully operational; the hazards on the trails have been reduced, and trekking becomes more comfortable and safer.
October: Autumn Stability, Best Ideal Trekking Weather
Everest Base Camp weather in October is believed by experienced trekkers to offer the best time of the entire year for trekking. Autumn certainly has the most stable and pleasant weather anybody could wish for. The weather is cool, and it stays cool throughout the day when the temperature is between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius and at night when the temperature can stay between minus 5 and minus 2 degrees Celsius.
The weather pattern is very stable in October, and during most days, there are hardly any clouds in the sky. The climatic conditions are perfect with dry and crisp air and very clear. That is a blessing for mountain viewing, for the best views of Mt. Everest and neighboring peaks await you.
There is a guarantee of no rain, no snow below 4000 meters, and decent trails during the fall season in October. The temperature range at Everest Base Camp is just right for comfortable trekking during the day and for sleeping well at night. With little chance of a change, it is most likely to be predictable weather at high altitudes. It is for these reasons that many consider October as the golden period for adventures in the Everest region. The conditions at this time are so stable that the success rate for treks reaches its peak in this month. October is the prime time for spectacular views around the Gokyo Lake with EBC Trek, as all three high passes with the emerald-like holy 6 lakes can show you crystal-clear views of the neighbouring peaks and valleys.
November: Cool Temperature and Clear Weather
Everest Base Camp Weather in November is a continuation of excellent autumn weather but with dropping temperatures that usher in winter. The daily temperature tends to drop between the hours of 5 to 12 degrees Celsius, and the right clothing required for the trekkers to EBC may not be at all hectic. Nights are extremely cold, with the temperature having the range of minus 10 to minus 2 degrees Celsius.
It is still the dry season in November, further promoting favorable weather conditions for trekking. Most days remain clear, and the mountain visibility is great, coupled with splendid views of mountain peaks. The air is dry and crisp, making mountain views highly sharp and beautiful.
trekking in everest region during winter
Sometimes later, you begin to experience adverse weather as the month progresses. Snowfall showers are likely in some higher regions, but the trails remain well-marked and clear. The month of November gives the best time for the Gokyo Trek since the shorter itinerary gives you short yet meaningful time to enjoy the autumn season, without rushing the timeframe, in fear of early winter arrival, however, still let's you glance at the almighty peaks of Mt everest, lhotshe, makalu, nuptshe and surrounding highlands with the holy Gokyo Lake.
December: End of Season and Winter Times Return
The weather in the Everest Base Camp during December indicates the transition of weather to the winter period as the season of trekking almost ends. During the daytime, temperature changes drop tremendously as they range between 0 to 8 degrees Celsius, and at night fall to as low as minus 15 degrees Celsius or lower in the higher altitudes.
It has still a few clear days in December when the visibility in the mountains is perfect; nevertheless, it also happens to be too cold, which is why most trekkers consider it to be a headache. Weather patterns start becoming more erratic as winter storms can quickly blow in. Weather fluctuations at high altitudes become common to potentially life-threatening. These particular climate conditions of December mean one will need proper winter gear to trek safely. It begins to snow at altitudes, making the trails icy and difficult to manage. Several tea houses also begin to close for the winter season, narrowing down the accommodation options drastically.
Most trekking companies consider December as the end of the usual trekking season. Only very experienced trekkers equipped with winter gear should even think about attempting the treks of the month. Temperatures at the Everest Base become extremely harsh, and the risk of weather unpredictability and altitude sickness increases immensely. If the peak seasons don't match as per your holiday timing, then, instead, for an easy journey like Everest View Trek, Everest Helicopter Tour, which lets you gaze at the world's highest peak without any challenges.
Weather-Based Packing Essentials for Everest Base Camp
Upper Body
Base layer shirts - Long sleeve moisture-wicking shirts that keep sweat away from your body
Insulated jacket - Down or synthetic jacket for warmth during cold mornings and evenings
Waterproof shell jacket - Protects you from wind, rain, and snow
Fleece or soft shell jacket - Middle layer for extra warmth that you can easily take on and off
Thermal underwear - Warm base layer for very cold nights
Long sleeve hiking shirts - For comfortable walking during warmer parts of the day
Warm hat or beanie - Essential for keeping your head warm in cold weather conditions
Sun hat with brim - Protects your face from strong mountain sun
Gloves - Waterproof outer gloves and warm liner gloves for different conditions
Middle Layer
Insulating vest - Adds core warmth without restricting arm movement
Soft shell jacket - Wind resistant layer that breathes well during active hiking
Fleece pullover - A thin layer that gives additional warmth in changing temperature conditions and packs easily
Merino wool sweater - Natural fiber that keeps you warm even when wet
Lightweight down jacket - Packable warmth for emergency situations or rest stops
Lower Body
Hiking pants - Comfortable and quick-dry pants for daily trekking
Thermal leggings - Base layer for your legs during cold night temperatures
Waterproof rain pants - Essential protection during monsoon season or unexpected rain
Warm sleeping pants - Comfortable clothes for sleeping in cold tea houses
Hiking shorts - For warmer days at lower altitudes
Warm socks - Wool or synthetic hiking socks, bring several pairs
Liner socks - Thin socks to prevent blisters
Others
Sleeping bag rated to -15°C - Should be considered a must for cold nighttime temperatures at higher altitudes
Sleeping bag liner - Offers extra warmth and keeps your bag clean
Headlamp - For early morning starts and evening activities
Sunglasses - UV protection is crucial at high altitudes
Sunscreen - Strong SPF protection for intense mountain sun
Trekking poles - Help with balance and reduce strain on knees
Waterproof daypack cover - Keeps your gear dry during unexpected rain
Personal first aid kit - Basic medical supplies for minor injuries
Water purification tablets - Safe drinking water throughout the trek
Buff or neck warmer - Versatile protection for neck and face from wind and cold
Tips for Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Weather
Tips for Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Weather
Study Monthly Weather Patterns before your Trip
Starting to understand the Everest Base Camp weather by month makes the first step toward effective preparation. Once you know the possible weather conditions for the time in which you plan to go trekking, you must check the weather forecasts and temperature charts for your expected conditions. You need to learn kilometers for daytime temperatures, or kilometers for nighttime temperatures, for your selected months. This will make you pack accordingly and set an expectation of what to experience during your trekking in the Himalayas.
Acclimatize your body to cold weather
Get yourself ready for all the endurance changes in temperature at the Everest Base Camp a couple of weeks ahead of your trek. Take a few cold showers; take every opportunity to be outdoors during times when cold weather persists. Do walks in the morning when the air temperature is cold, and the wind has had its say. Do training exercises with the same gear you'll be taking on the trip. Your body demands time to acclimate to the altitude and cold weather.
Create a flexible itinerary for Bad weather days
Plan extra rest days in your itinerary to array against unexpected weather delays. Bad weather patterns may compel you to stay in tea houses for days longer than you planned. Have alternative activities in mind for those days when mountain visibility is diminished due to clouds and snow. Keep a stash of extra cash for additional accommodation during storms. A flexible plan ensures your safety during dangerous phases of the Himalayan weather patterns.
Learn Local Weather Signs from Experienced Guides
Pay attention to your guide's weather advice and warning signs. Local guides know their seasonal weather patterns sometimes better than weather apps. Learn to read any changes in cloud formations or winds that might mean an oncoming storm. Ask about traditional weather forecasting techniques in the Everest region. The experienced guides may impart valuable weather safety tips that could save your life in case of an unexpected weather emergency.
Hike With A Top-Notch Trekking Agency
There are so many times when choosing a top-tier trekking company will make all the difference. Such agencies of professional repute provide expert guides who know how to handle sudden changes in the weather and keep you safe during the storms; they are armed with proper emergency equipment, and evacuation plans are in place in case of an emergency due to severe weather conditions. Good agencies like Destination Himalaya Treks also provide thorough weather briefings and help you make smart decisions about when it is best to continue with the trek or wait.
Conclusion: When is the ideal time to trek EBC?
Looking at the Everest Base Camp weather by month, April, May, September, and October are by far the best months to trek to Everest Base Camp. With the weather being the most stable, comfortable temperatures, and magnificent visibility of the mountains, the whole trek becomes an experience that can never be forgotten.
Springtime in April-May brings about a lot of warmth during the day hours and blooming rhododendrons, while autumn in September and October treats tourists with so clear skies and stable climate conditions. There is less rain in these months; therefore, optimum conditions for trekking, and all tea houses remain fully operational for one's comfort.
The knowledge regarding Everest Base Camp weather helps you know when to set off on this journey and what gear to carry with you. Depending upon whether one wishes to be amid the colorful flowers in spring or see the clearest eye views of mountains in autumn, all the difference lies in coordinating your trek with agreeable weather conditions.
Do not forget that preparation for the weather and the right guides required are equally important as getting to the right month of trekking. Destination Himalaya Treks will also help you in the planning of your dream trek to Everest Base Camp with advice on weather at certain times and when it is best suited to trek the exact way you expect the adventure to be. For any further queries, email destinationhimalayatreks.com or just call or WhatsApp us at +977 9851016814. Contact us anytime.
FAQs
How cold does it get at Everest Base Camp during the night?
During the winter months, Everest Base Camp temperatures are minus 15 degrees Celsius at night. In the warmer months, the temperature varies between minus 10 degrees Celsius and 5 degrees Celsius.
What kind of weather to expect during monsoon?
During June to August, there are heavy rains and incessant cloud cover as the monsoons hit between June and August and the humidity is very high. Rain showers quite frequently every other day, poor mountain visibility, muddy paths and temperature during the day between 10-15 degrees Celsius, can be expected. The weather is also highly unpredictable and there is an occurrence of frequent heavy storms and days of fogginess.
Can I do the Everest Trek in monsoon?
The monsoon is not a good time to trek because of dangerous trail conditions, landslides, and the situation with almost no views of the mountains. But those who seek adventure and with the right preparations and time off, still venture out to do the trek to EBC.
Are there altitude sicknesses in winter and monsoon?
Altitude sickness risk occurs at any time of the year as the EBC is at 5,364 meters. Cold weather that is extreme may worsen the symptoms during winter and even dryness may worsen the effect. The humidity, combined with bad weather during monsoons, can slightly raise the risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization should take place in any case and season.
Can I trek to Everest Base Camp in winter?
Winter time for trekking to Everest Base Camp is quite possible in general, although even more difficult. Winter weather here brings in temperatures below the minus 20 degrees Celsius mark, snow-laden trails, and only a handful of tea houses open for service. Only a few experienced trekkers, fully equipped with the correct Winter gear, should dare to attempt winter in the Everest region.
Is it safe to trek EBC in off-season?
Since the weather has become really unpredictable, the off-season treks have more risks-limited services to help you out in an emergency, with most places closing down. Imagine another change in weather that seals the possibility of evacuation.
What happens if flights get delayed due to weather?
Lukla delays due to weather are very frequent, particularly in monsoon and in winter. Different weather conditions such as clouds, wind, or poor visibility, may cause flights to be cancelled on several consecutive days. Always purchase the flight tickets leaving two or three extra days in the itinerary and plan to pay for unplanned stay in Kathmandu or Lukla.
Does the weather remain the same in each corner of Everest Region?
Weather conditions in different areas of the Everest region vary widely. Lower regions such as Namche are relatively warm and on the other end, high places such as the 3 High Passes are really very cold. And then the weather, too, is different in the different valleys; and there is more wind and more snow in one place than in another.
