Everest Base Camp Weather: Comprehensive Details

Everest Base Camp (EBC), situated at an elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), experiences a wide range of weather conditions due to its high altitude and geographical location. Understanding the Everest Base Camp weather patterns is crucial for anyone planning a trek to EBC, as it significantly impacts the trekking experience and safety.

However, please note that the weather at the Everest Base Camp is very unpredictable. So, though we have done our best to capture the weather conditions for each month, it may not be completely accurate.

Winter

In Nepal, winter begins in December and ends in March. Here is an overview.

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures in Everest Base Camp range from -25°C (-13°F) to -5°C (23°F).
• Weather: Winter brings cold temperatures and the potential for heavy snowfall. The weather is more unpredictable, with occasional clear days.
• Visibility: Excellent on clear days, but snow and storms can obscure views and make trekking more challenging.

 

December, winter begins

December marks the arrival of deep winter, with daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging from -20°C to -5°C and night-time temperatures plunging to -25°C (-13°F) to -20°C (-4.0°F). Snowfall is common, and trails can be snow-covered. Despite the harsh conditions, clear skies provide some of the best mountain views. The trails are quieter, but proper winter gear is essential for a safe and comfortable trek.

 

January, the coldest Month

January forms the mid-winter in the Everest region, bringing freezing conditions. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations hover around 6°C (42.8°F), while at Everest Base Camp, night-time temperatures can drop as low as -25°C (-13°F)  or even lower. Snowfall is common, especially at higher altitudes, which can lead to trail closures or diversions. However, the air is crisp, and visibility is excellent, providing some of the best mountain vistas you'll see all year. Despite the harsh conditions, the lack of crowds offers a peaceful trekking experience. As a trek tour company, we conduct tours during January.

 

February, winter ends

February remains cold, with day temperatures at lower altitudes reaching 10°C (50°F) and daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp still below freezing. Night-time temperatures can drop to -15°C (5°F) or lower. Snowfall continues, but as the month progresses, the intensity of the cold lessens gradually. The trails are quiet, offering solitude and stunning views of the snow-capped landscape on clear days. Proper winter gear is essential for a comfortable trek, treks are difficult but possible.

Spring

The spring season starts in March and ends in May.

Spring (March to May)

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp range from   -15°C (5°F) to 20°C (68.0°F).
• Weather: This is one of the best seasons for trekking to EBC. The weather is relatively stable with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Rhododendron flowers bloom, adding color to the landscape.
• Visibility: Excellent for mountain views, making it a popular time for trekkers.

 

March, spring begins

March marks the onset of spring, with average daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging from -15°C  (5°F) to 10°C (50°F). Night temperatures can dip to -12°C (10.4°F). The weather starts to warm up, and the skies are generally clear, allowing for stunning views of the mountain peaks. The trails are less crowded, offering a serene trekking experience. Occasional snowfall is still possible, so layered clothing is recommended.

 

April, spring peaks

April is one of the most popular months for trekking to Everest Base Camp, with daytime temperatures ranging from -10°C (14.0°F) to 15°C (59°F).  The weather is generally stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Rhododendrons and other alpine flowers are in full bloom, adding color to the landscape. April offers ideal conditions for trekkers seeking beautiful vistas and mild temperatures.

 

May, the spring ends

May continues the favorable weather, with daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging between -5°C ( 23.0°F)  to 20°C (68.0°F). and night-time temperatures around -10°C (14°F). Clear skies are common in the mornings, with more cloud cover in the afternoons. The trails are less crowded as most mountaineering expeditions will have already left for their summit attempts. The chance for snow and rain increases towards the end of May due to the approaching monsoon.

 

Summer

In Nepal, the summer begins in June and coincides with Monsoon in Nepal.

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp range from 5°C (41°F)  to 25°C (77°F).
• Weather: This season sees heavy monsoon rains, particularly in lower altitudes. The higher altitudes, including EBC, receive less rain but can still be cloudy and foggy.
• Visibility: Poor due to clouds and mist. Trails can be slippery and leech-infested, making it less ideal for trekking.

 

June, the summer/monsoon begins

June marks the beginning of the monsoon season, with daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp averaging around 10°C (50°F) to 20°C  (68°F) and night-time temperatures around -8°C (17.6°F). Early June can still be suitable for trekking, but heavy rain, cloud cover, and poor visibility become more common as the month progresses. Trails can become muddy and slippery. Waterproof clothing and flexibility in your itinerary are essential.

 

July, the peak of summer/monsoon

July is the peak of the monsoon season, with average daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging between 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F) and night-time temperatures around -8°C (17.6°F). Heavy rainfall can lead to slippery trails, landslides, and leeches. Visibility is usually poor due to rain clouds and fog. However, the trails are empty, offering a solitary experience with vibrant, rain-washed landscapes. Waterproof clothing and good trekking boots are essential.

 

August, the monsoon ends

August is a transitional month, with daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) and night-time temperatures around -7°C (19°F). The intensity of rainfall decreases as the month progresses, making conditions more favorable for trekking. The landscapes remain lush and vibrant, and the mountain views can be spectacular on clear days. Waterproof gear and flexibility in your schedule are still important.

Autumn

Autumn is a favorable trek season that begins in September. Here is a brief overview.

Autumn (September to November)

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range at the base camp range from -15°C (5.0°F) to 12°C (53.6°F).
• Weather: Another prime trekking season, autumn offers stable weather, clear skies, and dry conditions. The post-monsoon air is clean and crisp, providing stunning views of the mountains.
• Visibility: Excellent, with some of the clearest skies of the year.

 

September, the autumn begins

September marks the beginning of autumn, with daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F) and night-time temperatures between -1°C ( 30.2°F) to -5°C (23°F). The monsoon rains taper off, leading to clear skies and excellent visibility. The trails become busier, so booking accommodations in advance is advisable. Layered clothing is essential to adjust to the fluctuating temperatures.

 

October, mid-autumn

October is the most popular month for trekking, with daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging from -12°C (10°F) to 12°C (54°F)  and night-time temperatures dropping to -10°C (14°F) to -6°C (21.2°F). The weather is stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The trails can get crowded, so early bookings are recommended.

 

November, autumn ends

November brings early winter conditions, with daytime temperatures at Everest Base Camp ranging from -15°C (5.0°F) to 10°C (50°F) and night-time temperatures dropping to -20°C (-4 °F) to -10°C (14°F). The skies remain clear, providing stunning views. The trails are less crowded than in October, offering more tranquility. You will need warm clothing as temperatures drop towards the end of the month.

Understanding the monthly Everest Base Camp weather can help you plan your trek efficiently, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure in the Himalayas.