Everest Base Camp Trek Weather and Temperature Updated Guide 2024
Spring Season (March to May)
The spring season includes months from March to May. The Everest base camp trek in spring is the peak time for trekking. The spring season has stable weather with a moderate climate and great visibility. Many trekkers visit the Khumbu region to witness its beauty in the spring season. You will get to meet lots of fellow trekkers from different countries on the trail, but it might get a bit crowded.
However, the greenery and pretty flowers, especially in lower areas like Lukla, Phakding, Monjo, and Benkar, pay for the bustle. The rhododendron flowers bloom, making the trail even more beautiful. Spring is great for seeing rare animals and birds along the way. The sky is clear, and the days are warm with fantastic views. Nights are chilly, but the adventure is truly amazing!
Pros of Everest Base Camp trekking in spring:
- Moderate temperatures
- Breathtaking views
- Flora in bloom
- Longer days
- Comfortable lodge stays
Cons of Everest Base Camp trekking in spring:
- Crowded trails
- Higher costs
- Unpredictable weather
Everest Base Camp Trek in March
Temperature during the day: -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F)
Night temperature: Up to -15°C (5°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 6 to 7
Humidity: Dry and comfortable trekking environment
Wind speed: Mild to moderate (5300m or slightly less)
In March, the spring season starts. The weather gradually gets stable, and the temperature increases. The upper part of the trail remains cold in March, but the trekking condition gets better. There can be occasional snowfall in March, but overall, you can do the EBC trek in March month. The views are surreal, and the Lukla flights are mostly on time.
The daylight hours increase with the beginning of March. The temperature ranges from 7°C to -12°C. You have to be well packed for cold while trekking in March. The trekkers return to the region, and the trail slowly begins to bustle. During the day, the climate is warm and gets cold at night and in the morning.
Everest Base Camp Trek in April
Temperature during the day: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
Night temperature: Up to -10°C (14°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 8 to 9
Humidity: Low
Wind speed: 5300m or slightly less
By April, it becomes the best time to explore the Everest region with stable weather, moderate climate, and clear mountain views. The lower part of the trail bloomed with thousands of rhododendrons and other diverse vegetation. The bustle of trekkers returns to the EBC trail, making the environment happy and lively.
The temperature ranges from -5°C to 10°C. The daytime is warmer. Everything related to weather and climate is just perfect in April for the Everest Base Camp trek. You can freely extend the EBC trek to other parts of the region, such as Gokyo Lakes, Three Passes, Ama Dablam Base Camp, etc.
Everest Base Camp Trek weather in May
Temperature during the day: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Night temperature: -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 9 to 10
Humidity: Moderate
Wind speed: Mild (5300m or slightly less)
May is the peak time for mountaineering in the Himalayas. Likewise, it is also a great time to enjoy trekking. Once you go above 3,000 meters, the climate gets moderate. The lower part of the Everest region is a bit on the hot and humid side. The temperature touches 30°C during the daytime. The nights and mornings are cold, though.
Many trekkers explore the Everest region in May. The long daylight and pleasant climate present lovely trekking conditions. The Lukla flights are stable, and you can easily opt for helicopter flights in and out of the Everest reign. May offers quite a flexibility to change the itinerary or add further activities in the package anytime.
Ace Vision Treks is known as an ex-guided Trekking Company based in Kathmandu Nepal. So, In my personal experience, I highly recommend the Spring season May is the best time for Trekking and adventure outdoor activities in Nepal.
Monsoon/Summer Season (June to August)
Following the spring months, Nepal transitions into summer/monsoon from June to August. During this time, trekking trails in the Everest region become damp, occasionally slippery, and muddy due to heavy monsoon rains.
Summer is generally considered less favorable for trekking to the base of Mt. Everest due to frequent downpours and cloudy weather. The high part of the region experiences quickly changing and sometimes harsh weather conditions, making trekking uncomfortable.
Additionally, the risk of avalanches near Everest Base Camp increases during the summer period. There's also a possibility of landslides in lower mountainous areas. The number of trekkers on the trail is significantly low, and the paths are nearly empty throughout the season.
You can do the Everest base camp trek in summer/monsoon, but the overall journey will be quite demanding.
Pros of Everest Base Camp trekking in summer/monsoon:
- Lush greenery
- Fewer crowds
- Lower costs of accommodations and meals
Cons of Everest Base Camp trekking in summer/monsoon:
- Heavy rainfall, therefore bad trail condition
- Limited mountain views
- Increased risk of leeches and insects on the way
- Difficult river crossings
- Lukla flight disruptions
Everest Base Camp Trek in June
Temperature during the day: 5°C to 25°C (41°F to 77°F)
Night temperature: Around 0°C degrees Celsius (32°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 6 to 7
Humidity: High humidity with occasional rain
Wind speed: Fluctuate a lot depending on weather conditions
June is the beginning of the summer and rainy seasons. The climate is hot and humid, especially in Kathmandu and the lower part of the Everest region. The weather gets quite unpredictable and poor, affecting the Lukla flights. Likewise, the views may be obstructed because of a cloudy sky. It is an off-time for the Everest Base Camp trek.
The temperature in June goes from a maximum of 16°C, and a minimum of -1°C. The upper part of the Everest region gets cold in the mornings and nights. There are not many trekkers on the way. The cost of accommodation, meals, and Lukla flights decreases.
Everest Base Camp Trek in July
Temperature during the day: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F
Night temperature: Around 5°C (41°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 5 to 6
Humidity: High humidity with frequent rainfall
Wind speed: Fluctuate a lot depending on weather conditions
With the start of July, the rainfall gets regular. The trail from Lukla to Namche Bazaar and Tengboche is at its worst because of rainfall. There are muds and leeches everywhere on the way. Risks of landslides are high, along with unclear views and slippery tracks. The climate is very inconsistent. You will feel hot and cold simultaneously.
The humidity level is high. The trail is empty, and the prices of accommodation, meals, etc, are low. Despite all these cons of summer/monsoon season, the vegetation, rivers, streams, and waterfalls along the EBC trail thrive in this month. It is the best time to study the biodiversity of the Everest region.
The temperature ranges from 17°C in the daytime to 2°C at night. If you are thinking of doing the Everest Base Camp trek in July, have contingency days and properly plan the trip.
Everest Base Camp Trek in August
Temperature during the day: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Night temperature: Up to 5°C (41°F)
Humidity: High humidity with regular rainfall
Wind speed: Fluctuate a lot depending on weather conditions
August is the final month of summer/monsoon. The climate is quite hot, going above 30°C. Likewise, the rainfall is also heavy and regular. The trails are wet, muddy, and slippery. Given poor weather and bad trail conditions, August is not a good time for the EBC trek. Also, the risk of landslides is quite high in the lower part of the region.
The Lukla flights are not on time, and visibility is low. Trekking in August is not recommended unless you do not mind bad weather. The rivers and streams are full, so crossing them is risky as well. The climate remains either too hot or cold. August is also a low time for Everest base Camp trekking.
Autumn Season (September to November)
Autumn is the Everest Base Camp trek's best time. The weather from September to November is at its most stable, offering crystal clear skies and unobstructed views. The cloudless sky offers clear mountain views and picturesque landscapes. The lush greenery and autumn flowers add a burst of color to nature. Wildlife thrives in dry conditions.
It's neither too hot nor too cold, making the journey enjoyable. While temperatures at higher elevations are lower than those at lower elevations, the overall climate is favorable for trekking. Autumn is the ideal season for exploring various trekking routes in the Everest region. Contact us to do the Everest base camp trek in autumn. We have the best cost.
Pros of Everest Base Camp trekking in autumn:
- Stable weather
- Moderate temperatures
- Colorful landscapes
- Festivals and cultural experiences
- Lodge availability
Cons of Everest Base Camp trekking in autumn:
- Crowded trails
- Higher costs of accommodations and meals
Everest Base Camp Trek Weather in September
Temperature during the day: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
Night temperature: Around 0°C (32°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 7-8
Humidity: Low humidity levels
Wind speed: Moderate (around 5300m)
In the Everest region, September marks the end of monsoon, but rainfalls in Kathmandu and the lower part of the Solukhumbu region till the third week of this month. You can do the Everest Base Camp trek in September, as this month starts one of the best times for trekking in the Himalayas. Note that you may come across occasional rainfall, but it will not affect your trek that much.
The weather gradually begins to get stable, and chillness in the air increases. The temperature goes up to 25°C to 20°C in the lower elevation. Whereas the upper part of the trail sees temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C. The trails slowly begin to see the bustle of the trekkers from around the world, and the trail condition also gets better. The mountain views are clear and better.
Everest Base Camp Trek Weather in October
Temperature during the day: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
Night temperature: -10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 8-9
Humidity: Low with a dry and pleasant climate
Wind speed: Moderate (around 5300m)
As October starts, the weather stabilizes with no clouds, mist, or fog. The daylight hours increase by 8 to 9 hours per day, giving a lot of time to trekkers to enjoy the views. There is less chance of rainfall or snowfall, which makes the trail condition fantastic. Likewise, there is a hint of cold in the air, and the climate slowly dries.
Because of the monsoon season, the rivers, streams, and waterfalls all are in their best condition. Likewise, the vegetation also thrives before it loses all the colors and changes into beautiful hues of browns, oranges, and reds. Once again, The EBC trail gets packed with travelers from around the world, making the environment quite lively.
Overall, October is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek. There is less chance of Lukla flights seeing long delays or cancellations. All the lodges are open. The temperature ranges from 12°C daytime to a minimum of -6°C at night and morning.
Everest Base Camp Trek Weather and Temperature in November
Temperature during the day: -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F)
Night temperature: -15°C to 5°C (5°F to 32°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 8
Humidity: Low with a dry and pleasant climate
Wind speed: Moderate (around 5300m)
November is the final month of the autumn season. It is also the last month in the year to enjoy Everest Base Camp trekking without worrying about the weather and climate. The soft, crisp breeze with sunny, bright daylight makes trekking excellent. The mountain views are breathtaking, and the climate remains stable, with great hiking trail conditions.
The temperature ranges from 6°C to -12°C in November in the Everest region. At the beginning of this month, the trail seemed the bustle of the trekkers, and by the end week of November, most of the trekkers left the region. Likewise, towards the end of this month, there can be snowfall in the upper part of the trail. Autumn season November is the best time to do EBC trekking in Nepal.
Winter Season (December to February)
The days are shorter than the nights in the winter season. The weather is stable and dry with freezing temperatures. Throughout the winter, the entire Everest region remains dry and crystal-clear, with occasional morning mist and snowfall. Thick layers of snow cover most places surrounding the peaks.
During winter, most lodges are vacant and are available at a low cost. Despite the chilly temperatures, trekking to Everest Base Camp in winter remains possible with the right gear and preparations.
In mid-winter, nighttime temperatures may plummet to as low as -30°C (-22°F), however, the lower elevations offer comparatively milder conditions, with sunshine during the day making for comfortable walking.
It's worth noting that alternative routes such as Everest High Passes trek, Mera Peak climbing, and Gokyo Lakes trek might be closed due to the lower number of tourists, heavy snowfall, and extreme cold.
Pros of Everest Base Camp trekking in winter:
- Fewer crowd
- Clear mountain views
- Low costs of accommodations and meals
- Unique winter scenery
- Dry weather
Cons of Everest Base Camp trekking in winter:
- Cold temperatures
- Shorter days
- Limited lodge availability
- Risk of Lukla flight disruptions
- Bad trail conditions
Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Temperature during the day: 5 to 12 degrees Celsius (41 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit)
Night temperature: -10 to -5 degrees Celsius (14 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit)
Daily sunshine hour: 7
Humidity: Low with cool and crisp air
Wind speed: Moderate to strong (5500m or higher)
December is the first month of the winter season. With the beginning of December starts the deep and dark winter in the Everest region. The weather challenges get high. In the early days of this month, you can do the Everest base camp trek with not many hurdles. However, as the days pass by, the weather begins to get very unpredictable, and the cold increases extremely.
The temperature during the daytime ranges from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Likewise, during the night, the temperature plunges to -15°C to -20°C (-5°F to -4°F). Compared to the lower part of the EBC trail, the upper region is very cold. Similarly, there is also the chance of snowfall in December, which increases the complexity of the trail.
In the early morning hours, there may be fog. Likewise, as the sun rises, the sky becomes clear. Compared to November, the crowd is significantly lower, and the trails are almost empty. If you are trekking to the Everest Base Camp in December, stay updated with Everest Base Camp Trek Weather and Temperature.
Everest Base Camp Trek in January
Temperature during the day: -20°C to -10°C ( -4°F to 14°F)
Night temperature: Around -25°C (-13°F) or even lower
Daily sunshine hour: 6-7
Humidity: Low with a dry climate and snowfall
Wind speed: Moderate to strong (5500m or higher)
By the beginning of January, the winter is at its highest level. This month has extreme cold. The temperature drops as low as -20°C (-4°F) and lower some time. During the daytime, the temperature hovers around 6°C (42.8°F). The nights and morning hours are the coldest and require a high-quality insulating sleeping bag if you are trekking to the base camp of Mt. Everest in January.
January is not a favorable time for Everest Base Camp trekking, and the trail is all empty. You may come across 1-2 trekkers on the way, which is also rare. The Lukla flights are not on time, and the weather is very unstable. Snowfall is common at higher elevations, and if the weather gets bad, some sections of the trails might get closed, too.
The Everest Base Camp trek in January requires lots of planning and preparation. Even though the challenges are high during this month, the serene surroundings and surreal winter landscapes make trekking quite memorable. We highly recommend having 1-2 contingency days in your Everest Base Camp trek itinerary if you are trekking in January in case you come across very bad weather or face delay/cancellation in the Lukla flight.
Everest Base Camp Trek in February
Temperature during the day: -15°C to -5°C (5°F to 23°F)
Night temperature: Around -20°C (-4°F)
Daily sunshine hour: 6
Humidity: Low with a dry climate and snowfall
Wind speed: Moderate to strong (5500m or higher)
February is the last month of the winter season. The cold is at its peak, and by the end of the month, the climate gradually begins to see life. Trekking to EBC in February is also very challenging and full of uncertainties. With short daylight hours, snowfall, and extreme cold, the challenges of the trek are the highest.
The temperature during the daytime reaches up to 8°C (46.4°F) and nights and morning hours see -15°C (5°F) and lower. The trail remains empty in February as well. Towards the end of February, there can be some trekkers. On clear days, the mountain views are breathtaking. You can do the Everest Base Camp trek in February with proper planning and contingency days in the Trekking itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Everest Base Camp Trek Weather, Temperature, Best Time
How cold is the trek to Everest Base Camp?
The cold along the Everest Base Camp trail varies from one season to another. During the peak trekking seasons, temperatures at lower elevations are generally mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). However, as trekkers ascend to higher altitudes, particularly above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), temperatures can drop significantly.
What is the coldest month at Everest Base Camp?
The coldest month at Everest Base Camp is generally January. During this month, temperatures can drop significantly, with daytime temperatures ranging from -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F). Nighttime temperatures are even colder, often reaching -20°C (-4°F) or lower.
How do you stay warm on the Everest Base Camp trek?
To stay warm during the Everest Base Camp trek, prioritize layering clothing. A thermal base layer helps trap body heat while insulating layers such as fleece or down jackets provide additional warmth. A waterproof and windproof outer layer is essential to protect against the harsh elements. Likewise, wear insulated gloves, socks, a hat, and a neck gaiter or scarf.
Does Everest Base Camp always have snow?
While Everest Base Camp itself doesn't always have snow, the surrounding landscape and higher elevations often do, particularly during the winter months.
Which month is best for the Everest base camp trek?
The best months for the Everest Base Camp trek are generally considered to be either April or October. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with milder temperatures, long daylight hours, and clearer skies. Both of these months provide favorable conditions for the trek, allowing trekkers to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.
What is the warmest temperature in Everest Base Camp?
The warmest temperatures along the Everest Base Camp trail can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 68°F) in spring and autumn. The lower part of the trail may see temperatures increasing up to 30°C (86°F).
How cold is Everest Base Camp in summer?
While summer is not an ideal time for the EBC trek, the temperature can still be quite chilly at higher elevations and the base camp. In June, July, and August, the summer months, the temperatures can range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) during the day.
Does it rain on Everest?
While EBC itself does not experience rainfall, the surrounding regions, including the Everest Base Camp trekking route, can be affected by monsoon rains. From June to August, the monsoon season brings heavy precipitation in the Everest region. The lower elevations along the trekking route may experience rain, and the higher altitudes can receive snowfall.
Is the Everest Base Camp trail open all year?
Yes, the Everest Base Camp trail is technically accessible throughout the year, but the feasibility of trekking largely depends on weather conditions and seasonal variations. While it is possible to trek during these less favorable times, it requires careful planning, appropriate gear, and a higher tolerance for challenging weather conditions.
Is it possible to trek to Everest Base Camp during the monsoon season?
Trekking to Everest Base Camp during the monsoon season is possible but comes with additional challenges. The region experiences heavy rainfall in monsoon, making the lower parts of the trail slippery and increasing the risk of landslides. The monsoon can also obscure the stunning views of the mountains, impacting the overall trekking experience.
Are there any specific gear recommendations for the Everest Base Camp trek?
Key recommendations include a well-insulated and waterproof jacket, pants, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots to navigate varying terrains and weather conditions. Layering is crucial, so pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a quality down or synthetic-filled jacket for warmth. Follow our EBC trek packing list for more detailed information.
How do weather conditions impact flight schedules to and from Lukla, the starting point of the trek?
Weather conditions significantly impact flight schedules to and from Lukla. The short airstrip and challenging terrain at Lukla make it sensitive to adverse weather conditions. Flights are often operated by small aircraft, and factors such as fog, rain, snow, or high winds can lead to delays or cancellations.
Need travel inspiration to the Himalayas? Check out my other updated travel blogs below:
