Best Time To trek Everest Base Camp

When is the best time to trek Everest Base Camp?

This is one of the most asked questions by every EBC trek enthusiast, whenever they start planning on itinerary and EBC trek operator.

And, the question is genuine as many climbers and trekkers are usually confused about the best time to do it.

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the best trekking destinations in the world.

It allows you to explore the beautiful Khumbu region that is housing the world’s tallest mountain.

You need to plan a trek to such a place with some caution and with good physical fitness.

One of the major factors you need to consider is the best time to trek Everest Base Camp, before you choose to sign up for this trek amazing trek.

Best Time To trek Everest Base Camp

Trekkers consider autumn and spring as the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp.

These two seasons cover the months from March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn).

These seasons or months bring in comparatively mild temperate and stable weather.

The average temperature does not bring in sweltering heat or freezing cold.

The chances of snowstorms and monsoon rain are also minimal.

Consequently, it mitigates the risks of avalanches and slippery trails.

And it is pleasant experience to trek in mild temperature looking at blue sky and snow capped Himalayas.

The autumn and spring seasons are considered peak trekking time and is the best season to trek in Nepal.

This results in a high number of trekkers on the Nepalese trekking trails.

On the other hand, the monsoon and winter months are “off-season” for trekking throughout the country.

These seasons fall from mid June to August (Monsoon) and December to February (Winter).

Most lodges and tea houses located at high altitudes are usually closed during these times and only few remain open to provide food and shelter to passing trekkers.

You can plan for this trek during any time of the year as Mosaic Adventure operates our Everest Base Camp Trek round a year.

There are different seasons but doing the Everest base camp trek is doable throughout the year with proper caution, preparation and determination.

The variation in the weather condition means the diversity in your trekking experiences.

So, it is solely your choice about when to go on this trek.

For some people, winter and monsoon could be the best time to trek Everest Base Camp.

The off-season trek allows you to explore the Everest region from a unique perspective.

The trails will be literally empty, and the environment will be very serene.

Winter months’ treks allow you to see the snowfall over the Khumbu region.

The off-season treks could be a beautiful experience if done with caution and good preparation.

People with good experience in trekking can easily venture on both winter and monsoon treks.

Let us delve deeper into what the Everest region offers during different times of the year in detail.

We have researched a lot about best time to trek Everest Base Camp.

After interviewing and screening different professional guides, trekkers, climbers and the locals, we have tried to compile some useful information which will help you decide the best time to trek Mount Everest Base Camp.

After going through all these information below, you can find out on your own the answers to when is the best time to trek Everest Base Camp.

Everest Base Camp trek in Spring

Queries regarding trekking the Mount Everest Base Camp in spring, is a pretty common question.

This season is also known as a prime trekking month as the weather is not as cold as in the winters and autumns.

And, this is the time when you will have the chance to view significant exotic and rare species of birds and animals.

Most of the climbers choose the time from March to May to pass by the base camp.

Spring is also the best time for mountaineers to climb Mount Everest and other majestic mountains in Nepal.

So, the trek to Everest Base Camp in spring is the best after Autumn.

Spring in Nepal covers the months of March, April, and May. Let us give you the idea of each month in detail.

How is month of March for the EBC trek?

Temperature range – 7 degrees Celsius to -12 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – not likely

Snowfall – less likely

Highlights – beginning of spring, vibrant wildlife and vegetation, clear blue sky, temperate weather

March marks the start of the spring season in the northern hemisphere.

The temperature starts rising as it succeeds February’s cold month.

The snow from the winter melts and dries up this month, making the trails dry.

Trails become significantly easier to hike, and risks of falls or accidents lessen.

The sky clears up, and the weather is stable compared to winter.

You get amazing vistas of nearby mountain ranges accompanied by radiant blue sky.

The risks of avalanches and snowstorms lessen due to the calmer weather.

The trekking trail starts filling up with people after a rather barren trail during the winter months.

The local tea houses open, and businesses resume in the spring months.

The latter half of the months will likely bring a high influx of people on the trails.

It might make it difficult for you to get flights and rooms in tea houses.

Make sure you have early reservations for a convenient trip.

Check detailed article at Everest Base Camp trek in March.

April – The Best Month of Spring

Temperature range – 10 degrees Celsius to -5 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – not likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – vibrant wildlife and vegetation, clear blue sky, temperate weather, the Nepali new year, crowded trails

April, the second month of spring, has a lot to offer you.

The temperature increases slightly compared to March but are still very bearable.

The skies will still be a vibrant shade of blue with not many gray clouds.

You will get clear mountain views with no restrictions.

April is the full-fledged version of the spring season, so the vegetation of the trails will be at its best.

The wildlife will be off hibernation and can be visible in the protected areas.

The visit to Sagarmatha National Park will be very exciting during this time of the year.

The migration season of birds is also spring, so if you are a bird watcher, you will love the Everest region in April.

The mid of April also brings the Nepali new year.

It makes up for a festive, refreshing environment in the country.

So, planning the Everest Base Camp trek or any other Nepal-based trip would be a good idea.

April also marks the busiest and most crowded time of the year for the trekking trails of Nepal.

The Everest Base Camp trails will be filled with various trekkers from around the world.

This might be both a positive and negative experience for you.

On the brighter side, you can make new friends, share experiences, socialize and have fun.

But, the crowded trails take away the serenity of the Khumbu region.

The tea houses get packed and might not offer comfortable lodging options. You might have to share rooms with several people or sleep in the communal dining hall. Coordinate with your trekking agency earlier to get reservations; it will make the trip more comfortable. Read more on EBC trek in April.

Everest Base Camp trek in May

Temperature range – 15 degrees Celsius to 0 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – less likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – end of spring, vibrant wildlife and vegetation, clear blue sky, temperate weather, crowds along the trails get smaller

May is the end of spring in Nepal.

The temperature will rise significantly by May, but Khumbu will still be temperate.

The flowers will still be bright and blooming, and the trails are still dry.

May will still be very convenient to trek the Everest region, logistically.

You will get unrestricted vistas of various landmarks of Everest with clear blue skies.

Problems of slippery trails or unstable weather are less likely to occur.

However, chances of slight rainfall during the month end are expected.

The crowds along the trail start getting lesser with time moving forward in May.

The tea houses and other trekking businesses will still be running, so you need not fret about accommodation issues.

The serenity of the region will be restored to some extent during May.

So, the month of May could also be the best time to trek Everest BaseCamp.

Read more on EBC trek in May.

Autumn Season – Another Best Time for EBC Trek

September, October, and November are the Autumn months in Nepal.

Most tourists want to visit Nepal during these months as theme month offers beautiful weather and festivals.

Everest Base Camp trek in September

Temperature range – 15 degrees Celsius to 2 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – the start of autumn, clear skies, trekkers start filling the trails, monsoon withdrawal

September is the early month of autumn in Nepal.

The weather and climate of the first half of September resemble August’s end.

Monsoon will either officially end by August or the first half of September.

In recent years, the monsoon withdrawal has pushed its way further into September.

You might get heavy rainfall throughout the year, and monsoon might officially end at month’s end.

But as per general trend, the weather of September starts resembling autumn as time goes by.

The days get shorter, and the early morning and nights start getting a bit chilly.

Leaves turn a shade of brown and start falling off trees.

The skies will be less cloudy, and your trip’s vistas will get more mesmerizing.

Although the earlier part of the month might get unstable weather, it gets significantly better by the end.

The tea houses open as the monsoon ends and the trails become more suitable.

Autumn will mark another peak trekking season in Nepal.

The trekking trail will be covered with trekkers slowly marking its beginning.

It won’t be as hectic and crowded as peak months like April or October/November.

But you won’t find empty trails like during monsoon. Read more on EBC trek in September.

October – Best Month of Autumn

Temperature range – 12 degrees Celsius to -6 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – less likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – clear blue skies, shorter days, stable weather, crowded trails, moderate climate, drier roads, festival season

Undoubtedly, Autumn is the best season to trek to Mount Everest Base Camp.

October marks another peak trekking season in Nepal.

With monsoon, leaving it to trace, leaves behind quite clear and fresh trekking trail.

The sky clears up and gives you an alive and beautiful view of the majestic mountain ranges.

The month brings in a very convenient environment for long days of trekking.

The trekking trails will be dry, and the weather will be stable with a moderate climate.

The issues of landslides and blockages subside as the weather gets stable.

You will get amazing vistas as the skies will be clear with little chance of rainfall.

The forests turn into a beautiful shade of brown with autumn’s dried-up leaves falling.

The trails will look mesmerizing, you can feel leaves crunching down your feet.

Such beautiful weather will bring many trekkers toward Everest’s trekking trails.

The trails get very crowded, and finding teahouse accommodation on EBC trail might become a hassle.

Tea houses fill up quickly, so you ought you make early reservations.

The crowded trails, despite having some problems, will allow you to have a positive social experience.

You can make many friends and share cultures with the trekkers.

October/November also brings the Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals in Nepal.

Trekking in Nepal will be wholesome due to the festive environment.

The Mani Rimdu festivals of the Sherpas also fall during these months.

The Tengboche monastery of the Everest Base Camp trek route celebrates it grandly.

The Everest Base Camp trek during such a celebratory environment will be a great experience.

October to December is the time when monsoon ends and the winter enters the region..

A lot of waterfalls will still be alive in the lower region and the temperature is also at the medium, best than any other season.

However, it is best to contact us before you plan your Everest Base Camp trek.

We can help you with the weather forecast of the trekking region beforehand.

Read detail on EBC trek during October.

Everest Base Camp trek in November

Temperature range – 13 degrees Celsius to -6 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – not likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – end of autumn, clear blue skies, stable weather, crowded trails, moderate climate, dry trails, festival season

November has the same vibrant environment as October.

The weather and climate will be almost synonymous in these two months.

Along with that, the festivities of Nepal extend for more than a month.

So, you will find a celebratory environment during November as well.

The trails will be very dry, mitigating risks of falls and accidents.

You will face a very temperate climate making long hikes easier.

The lodging and transportation will be heavily booked during November as well.

You need to make an early reservation to get convenient spots for the trek.

Despite such a hectic schedule, you will still not be left alone.

You might get a significantly cramped room to sleep in.

People usually sleep in communal dining halls of tea houses when the rooms are packed.

So you are not totally out of options due to the hectic trekking season.

You will feel a significant drop in temperature and shorter days.

Carry warm clothes, especially to wear during the chilly weather of early morning and night.

Continue reading on EBC trek in November.

How is the EBC Trek during Monsoon?

The monsoon in Nepal occurs from June to August and brings heavy rainfall.

Monsoon is considered as one of the not so great time for trekking in Nepal, the cloud and the mist might disappoint you.

The rainy seasons are likely to dominate the terrain with frequent rainfalls and the weather will be cloudy almost every day.

Everest Base Camp trek in August or any other monsoon months will most definitely get affected by rain, specially at lower elevation below 3000 meters.

Despite these three months being the “official monsoon months” of Nepal, monsoon in recent years, extends to September.

The rainfall usually occurs during the night and the day is swelteringly hot.

But a bright sunny day after the mist and fog would definitely enlighten your journey.

Everest Base Camp trek in June

Temperature range – 16 degrees Celsius to -1 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – highly likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – beginning of summer and monsoon, warm temperature, heavy rainfalls, cloudy weather

June marks the beginning of the monsoon as well as the hot winter months in Nepal.

The weather in late May and early June is similar.

It starts with some sporadic rainfalls and rising temperatures.

Although the temperature and weather get a little unstable, the business is still not shut.

You can still find tea houses and businesses in high-altitude places running.

You need not worry about this, especially not for the first half of June.

However, the month’s latter half might bring heavy rainfall and more unstable weather.

Heavy rainfalls at high-altitude places are always a great problem.

Transportation is difficult when it rains and the resources to run a business get scarce.

Most tea houses might close during this time and cause your lodging and food issues.

You might also face a lot of insects and pests on the trekking trails during the monsoon.

So, bring insect repellents for your protection.

The hot sunny days might make you very sweaty and hot. So, bring lightweight summer clothing as well as rain protection wears.

Although treks at the beginning of June are straightforward, those in the second half of the month require a lot of planning.

Everest Base Camp trek in July

Temperature range – 17 degrees Celsius to 2 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – highly likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – peak summer and monsoon, long days, sweltering heat, heavy rainfalls, cloudy weather, serene empty trekking trails

July is the peak summertime in Nepal.

Along with sweltering heat, the Everest region receives heavy rainfall in July.

The rainfall, although problematic, makes the Everest trail quite serene.

The alpine forests will look dense and lush after a wash by the rainfall.

The landforms like waterfalls, streams, and springs become voluminous due to the rain.

Observing the Dudh Koshi river will be an amazing experience in monsoon on the Everest trails.

There won’t be many clear days this season.

The landscapes appear rather vivid, with thick grey clouds passing through the mountains.

The vistas will not be as vibrant and pretty as during spring.

Like the end of June, July also faces huge issues related to transportation and scarce resources.

Many places around the country face disasters like floods and landslides.

The same could occur around the Khumbu region, which causes road blockage.

Due to a lack of resources, most tea houses close as the trekking trails are quite empty this month.

The risk of falls and accidents will rise during rain because of how slick the roadways will be.

You’ll also be bothered by insects and other pests this month.

Without rain, the day will be unbearably hot, making the journey more difficult.

For this month’s trek, it is imperative to pack insect repellents, rain protection fear, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing.

Everest Base camp trek in August

Temperature range – 16 degrees Celsius to 2 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – highly likely

Snowfall – not likely

Highlights – end of summer and monsoon, hot day, heavy rainfalls, cloudy weather, serene empty trekking trails

August will be the end of the summer and monsoon seasons in Nepal.

This month is also likely to be the wettest month in the Everest region.

The weather will be quite unstable, with continuous heavy rainfall for most days.

The risk of landslides and road blockage might get worse during August.

Naturally, the tea houses will still be closed in the high-altitude trails.

August will be similar to July, with a bit more extreme weather.

The trails will still be empty, with very few trekkers.

The vegetation will be booming with rainwater, and the forest will appear lush and thick.

You might find serenity and beauty walking along such trails.

But the risks brought by slippery and muddy trails will still be prevalent.

The temperature might start dropping a little but would reach moderate.

The monsoon might withdraw by the end of the month or by the beginning of September.

Is it Possible to Trek Everest Base Camp in Winter?

Winter in Nepal is different based on geography.

It is definitely possible to trek during to EBC in winter.

But the challenges across the terrain multiplies as compared to other seasons.

The low plain lands are cold but and there is less chance to receive snow and the hills are cold and have pretty less cases of snowfall.

But, the high mountain trails like Everest Base Camp trails experience a very cold winter.

There are high chances of snowfall and the temperature is always below 0 degrees Celsius.

The month of December to March is considered as the winter trekking.

At this time of the year, you will notice a huge change in the mountains with colder temperature and heavier snowfalls.

Only the daytime is warm and that too with minimal sunlight. The night is freezing.

This is absolutely not the ideal time to trek the Everest Base Camp, but many trekkers love this challenge and have indeed returned victorious.

Aside from the coldest temperatures the best thing about this season is the clear sky and a spectacular view of the mountains.

Be sure to seriously take safety precautions and instructions!

Everest Base Camp trek in December

Temperature range – 4 degrees Celsius to -14 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – not likely

Snowfall – highly likely

Highlights – the start of winter, freezing weather, icy trails, snowfall, empty trails

December will be the first month of winter in Nepal.

The temperate drops significantly compared to November.

The days become very short, and the Snowfall is very high.

The weather becomes unstable, and the chances of snowstorms are high. Such weather conditions compel businesses to shut down.

The trails will be empty, similar to the monsoon months. The risk of accidents will increase due to snowfall.

The trails become icy and slippery, and snowstorms increase the chances of avalanches.

You should be very careful while trekking the Everest region, especially high-altitude regions with such risks.

You also need to carry heavy luggage with many clothes to keep you warm.

Tools to hike the snowy, icy trails are also essential during these treks.

Despite these risks, the winter treks might give you the best experience of the Everest region.

The snowfall in the Himalayas will be a sight for sore eyes and a lifetime experience.

You can see the Everest range and the adjacent mountain ranges covered in snow.

Such vistas will make up for an ethereal trekking experience.

Everest Base Camp trek in January

Temperature range – 4 degrees Celsius to -17 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – not likely

Snowfall – highly likely

Highlights -the heart of winter, freezing weather, icy trails, heavy snowfall, empty trails

January is the colder, more gruesome extension of December’s winter.

Extreme cold with heavy snowfall occurs throughout the Everest region. Walking through the trails of the region will be very tough.

The businesses will be shut and the trails will be empty with little to no trekkers.

In January, the mountain trails’ risks of avalanches and disasters are very high.

People highly recommend not trekking mountain trails in such a dangerous time.

Hence, you will barely find a human soul lingering along the Everest trails.

Being alone in such a remote area in extreme weather conditions is scary, as you might get stranded without a rescue.

There is no complete restriction to trek during January but trekking this time is not very wise.

The experience of snowfall and mountains in the heart of winter might be a once in a lifetime opportunity.

But the risks outweigh the rewards here.

Everest Base Camp trek in February

Temperature range – 4 degrees Celsius to -15 degrees Celsius

Rainfall – not likely

Snowfall – highly likely

Highlights – end of winter, cold weather, slippery trails, snowfall, fewer empty trails, brighter days

If you are planning on doing Everest Base Camp Trek in February, note that it is almost the end of winter in Nepal and will bring a dual climate.

The early half of February might receive ample snowfall and cold.

The latter half, however, will receive significantly less snowfall.

The tea houses remain closed at the beginning of February.

But at the end of the month, businesses will start to open again.

The snow along the trails starts to make, and the roads might be slippery at times.

But by the end of the month, the trails will get a lot drier.

You will still experience a lot of colds, but they will not be as extreme as in previous months.

The skies will become brighter and clearer with the instability of weather decreasing.

The mountains will be covered with winter snow, and the vistas will be gorgeous.

The trails will remain empty but not as barren as in the extreme winter.

You can experience serenity with little to no risks during February.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Time to Trek Mount Everest Base Camp?

The best time of the year to go on Everest Base Camp Trek is between February – May and October – December.

This is the time when the weather is most appropriate for trekking.

Though, if you prefer less crowd and love to owe the trekking area by yourself, there are other options too.

How challenging is Mount Everest Base Camp trekking?

EBC is considered as a moderate to difficult level trekking.

The extreme weather condition and high altitude are the major challenges of the trek.

If you have a good fitness level, you won’t face much of the difficulty.

For a normal hiker without much trekking experience, it can be quite challenging.

You need properly prepare yourself for the EBC trek before you sign up.

Walking on a plain terrain compared to walking uphill to a higher altitude is different and obviously difficult.

So, it is advised to get yourself trained to walk uphill before you actually starting your adventure.

Uphill walks will make your legs and your breathing strong.

It would be best to get into somebody strengthening exercises and prepare your body for the trek.

Will I get altitude sickness?

Different people have the different levels of tolerance when it comes to altitude sickness.

Majority of the people won’t face such problems.

But if you are physically weak and can’t endure strenuous exercise, it is likely that you will suffer from altitude sickness.

But our experienced guides will take care of this and take care of your acclimatization to different heights.

You can also significantly reduce the altitude sickness by taking medicine like Diamox.

Be careful to take extra care of yourself and keep hydrating your body.

But, it is advised to consult the doctor before taking any medications before and after the trek.

Can I use my credit card for any souvenirs or buy extra things on the trek?

Our itinerary and package includes most of the traveling accommodation and food expenses.

But yes, you can take some extra cash on the trek if you want to buy extra food or souvenirs on the way.

The teahouses and lodges on the trail will not accept any credit cards.

So, for this reason, some cash in hand will definitely help you in case you want to buy any souvenirs or extra food and beverages.

How busy are the trails on the trek?

It is expected to have a maximum number of tourists at the time of October, considering it the best season to trek in Nepal.

But if you are booked, you won’t have any problems with your accommodation.

It is recommended to book the trip in advance to avoid disappointment.

The terrain can be quite crowded at some junctions and you will surpass some yaks, porters, tourists, and locals passing by.

But, there will be plenty of places where you will feel like in heaven with the beautiful mountains and grassland in the hilly regions of the trek.

What will I get to experience while trekking EBC?

Lifetime experience and adventure to the world’s highest Mt. Everest base camp with breathtaking views.

Panoramic view from Kalapathar viewpoint and close views of Mt. Everest.

The local Sherpa’s traditional villages and monasteries and their unique culture.

World heritage sites and high areas of Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu region.

Heavenly hills and mountains within the eye level of the horizon.

Final Say

There are various approaches to the Everest Base Camp during different times of the year.

You need to choose a suitable time for the trek that you desire.

Trekking during spring and autumn will be the best for you if you are a novice trekker.

But you can try off-season treks if you have great experience in trekking.

However, it is highly unwise to do it during the heart of summer and winter.

Explore more and get more ideas about what type of trek you want.

Then you can easily find the answer to when is the best time to trek Everest Base Camp for you.