Everest Base Camp Trek in July

Is the Everest Base Camp trek doable in July? What is the weather like and what are the advantages and disadvantages of doing the trek during this month? Read on to find out more.

July marks the beginning of the summer monsoon season and is considered the off-season for trekking in Nepal. As a result, the Everest Base Camp Trek trails are relatively less crowded during this time, making it an ideal option for peace lovers. Moreover, the views are at their sharpest after rainfall.

During monsoons, it usually doesn’t rain throughout the day; instead, it typically rains in the evening and at night. The mornings and days are usually sunny.

On the bright side, the rain clears the weather and dust, providing a stunning view of the mountains. Furthermore, as you ascend higher, the rainfall decreases.

Trekking to Everest Base Camp in July has its own advantages. Flights are not overbooked, and there are fewer crowds due to the off-season. Therefore, for those who enjoy solitude, July can be a great month to trek.

All you need to do is consider the factor of monsoon and prepare accordingly.

Weather at Everest Base Camp in July

From mid-June, the monsoon season starts and continues through the following month. July is the wettest month in Nepal, but because it coincides with summer, it is generally warm despite the rain.

The warmth at higher altitudes can be pleasant, as you don’t have to endure the extreme cold weather of the mountains. Furthermore, as you climb higher, the amount of precipitation typically decreases. Places above 4,000 meters in altitude experience very little rain.

During the day, the temperature can go as high as 17 degrees Celsius, but it can drop as low as minus 4/5 degrees Celsius at night. A sleeping bag rated for negative 4/5 degrees Celsius would be appropriate for the nights and mornings during your trek in July. If necessary, you could also request an extra blanket at the lodge.

Temperature at Everest Base Camp in July

Advantages of Trekking in July

Here are a few reasons why trekking to Everest Base Camp in July is advantageous:

Fewer People

Compared to peak seasons like spring and autumn, the trails receive fewer trekkers in July. As a result, the trails are relatively empty, and you’ll have the nature and tea houses to yourself. If you enjoy a peaceful trekking experience and dislike crowds, you’ll certainly appreciate trekking in July. The quiet atmosphere will help you connect with nature, which can refresh your mind and soul.

Breathtaking Scenery

Because it rains in the evening and at night, the mornings and days are typically clear of clouds. As a result, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the mountains. In addition, July is a greener month, and the air is relatively clean. You can expect to see a lush green forest with blooming flowers and wild berries along the way, as well as amazing biodiversity throughout the journey.

Off-season Discounts

One of the benefits of trekking in July is the availability of off-season discounts. Flight rates are slightly cheaper, and you may also receive discounts on accommodations. Although teahouse and lodge rates are typically non-negotiable, you may be able to receive some free services if you request them, such as a hot shower bucket or charging your phone free of charge. Additionally, you can easily find available rooms in lodges during this month, and the staff may be able to provide more individualized attention due to the lower number of people.

Opportunity to Witness Festivals Like Saune Sankranti

Exploring a different country can be even more rewarding when you learn about its culture and traditions. Witnessing the festivals celebrated by locals can add a charming dimension to your travels. Saune Sankranti is the first day of the month of Shravan and falls in mid-July. After planting crops in the Nepalese calendar month of Asadh, farmers wash off the mud and enjoy delicious food on this day.

Difficulties of Everest Base Camp Trek in July

Although trekking in July has its own perks, you may face different difficulties during this time.

Due to the rainy season, insects come to life during this time, and hence, you should expect mosquitoes and leeches along the trails.

The trails can be wet, muddy, and slippery. You need a good pair of shoes and walk with caution.

During times when it rains for the most part of the day, the clouds can block the views of the mountains. So, there might be days when you don’t get scenic views during your trek.

Sometimes, due to bad weather, there can be flight delays affecting your planned schedule.

Tips for Trekking in July

Know the Weather report:

The weather during monsoon can be quite unpredictable at times. Hence, it is wise to keep yourself updated with the day-to-day weather report. This way, you can prepare accordingly.

Carry insect repellent:

During monsoon, there can be leeches and mosquitoes on your way in the lower altitude. Hence, carry an anti-leech spray containing DEET (Diethyl Meta Toluamide).

If you don’t have that, you can sprinkle salt on them. For mosquitoes, you can apply mosquito repellent lotion or rub lavender oil.

Make sure to keep checking your legs, shoes, and trousers at times for the leeches.

Trek early:

It usually rains in the evening. So, make sure to start your trek early and end early to avoid getting wet due to rain.

In the evening, when you get back to the teahouse, you can keep yourself warm with a hot cup of tea or meals like soup noodles.

Keep some leisure days:

It is important to keep some extra days so that you don’t cram up everything at last. Also, there might be delays in the flight due to bad weather.

And, for times when the views are not clear due to the weather, the extra days will come in handy.

Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek in July

When packing for a trip, there is a great chance that you might forget some important items. However, for the Everest Base Camp trek in July, you need to pay extra attention to a few things such as the summer sun, the monsoon rain, and the high altitude chills.

Therefore, you need to pack smart and carry all the necessary equipment to make your trip comfortable and smooth. Here is a general idea of the list of things you will need on the trek:

• Sun hat or cap along with sunscreen lotion to protect your skin from the scorching sun at high altitudes.
• Polarized UV sunglasses to protect your eyes, and a bandana or scarf to protect your face and neck.
• Waterproof gear such as a raincoat, trousers, boots, and backpacks to protect you from the rain.
• Sleeping bag with liners to keep you dry and warm in case of rainy nights.
• Trekking boots with a firm grip to help you navigate the wet, muddy, and slippery trails.
• Warm fleece and insulating jacket to keep you warm during cold nights and mornings in the higher altitude.
• Water bottle to stay hydrated and avoid altitude sickness.
• First aid kit in case of an injury and necessary medication for precaution.

Hiring a Guide or Porter in July

We cannot stress the importance of hiring a guide or porter enough. The routes are often deserted and sometimes blocked due to landslides, and there are chances of losing your way.

Trekking to higher altitudes can be tricky, and there are instances when travelers go missing. Therefore, a guide can be very helpful in many ways such as translating the language while talking to the natives, showing the way, introducing the culture, and most importantly, calling for help in case of emergency.

On the other hand, porters can help you carry your bags, which allows you to be more balanced while trekking without the heavy baggage.

Alternatives to Everest Base Camp Trek in July

n alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek in July is the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

If you don’t want to experience any rain while trekking but still dream of going to Base Camp, the Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour is perfect for you.

The EBC helicopter tour gives you an aerial perspective of the Himalayas and, of course, Mt. Everest. Here, you will get to watch the Himalayas unfold from the comfort of the helicopter.

This helicopter ride will fly above EBC and stop briefly at Kala Patthar (5550m), the most popular viewpoint in the region.

Moreover, you will enjoy breakfast at Syangboche surrounded by Himalayan peaks before flying back to Kathmandu.

However, in case the weather doesn’t permit you to fly, you will receive a full refund.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is a perfect combination of trekking and helicopter ride. In this trip, you will fly to Lukla and trek for a few days in the Everest region, reaching your dream destination – Everest Base Camp.

You will start your trek to Phakding, then further to Namche Bazaar, where your body will adjust to the low amount of oxygen in the Everest region.

From there, you will trek to Everest Base Camp. And when you get down to Gorak Shep and Pheriche, you will take a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu.

This option is great for trekkers who do not have the time or physical capacity to trek to and from EBC. Hence they prefer to take a helicopter back.

Everest Base Camp Trek with High Passes

If you have plenty of days, you have more chances to get scenic views of the mountains.

The Everest Three Passes Trek lasts for about three weeks, allowing you enough time to enjoy great views of the mountains.

You will also get to go to various mountain passes like Cho La, Kongma La, Renjo La, etc., if you are willing to go for it.

Conclusion

Like any other month, the Everest Base Camp trek in July has both its perks and flaws. While some people avoid trekking in July completely, others trek because of the adventure this month has to offer.

Also, the trail is relatively more peaceful and less crowded, serving great for peace lovers.

Hence, by keeping a close eye on the weather forecast and packing accordingly, you can take the Everest Base Camp trek in July.

If you still have any queries or questions, please feel free to contact us.

It is our pleasure to guide and plan the trek for you at any month of the year according to your preference.