The Everest Base Camp Trek in winter is one of the most beautiful and peaceful adventures you can take in Nepal. Many people think winter is not the right time to trek, but that’s not true! Winter brings a quiet trail, clear skies, and magical snow views that you’ll never forget.
What Makes the Everest Base Camp Trek In Winter Special?
Winter (from December to February) is the coldest season in Nepal, but it’s also the most peaceful time to trek. Here’s why many smart trekkers choose winter:
Crystal clear mountain views after every sunrise
Fewer trekkers on the trail – enjoy nature in peace
Warm hospitality from locals who have more time to share stories
Perfect photos of snow-covered Everest and other peaks
Sunny days with blue skies – great for walking and photography
You’ll feel like you have the Himalayas all to yourself!
Everest Base Camp Winter Trek Route Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trek usually takes 12 to 14 days. You’ll start with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, then follow the famous trail through beautiful Sherpa villages.
Here’s a short outline of the route:
Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) – Trek to Phakding
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Namche to Tengboche
Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche
Day 6: Acclimatization at Dingboche
Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche
Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise view of Mt. Everest
Day 10: Return journey to Lukla
Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu
What’s the Weather Like in Winter?
Daytime Temperature: Around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F)
Night Temperature: Can drop to -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) at higher places
Sky Condition: Mostly clear and dry
Snowfall: Possible above 3,500 meters
It’s cold, yes, but with the right clothes and gear, you’ll stay warm and comfortable.
What to Pack for Winter Everest Trek?
Packing well is very important in winter. Here’s a simple list:
Warm down jacket and sleeping bag (-20°C rated)
Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
Fleece jacket and woolen sweater
Windproof and waterproof jacket
Trekking boots (insulated and waterproof)
Gloves, hats, neck warmer, and warm socks
Sunglasses and sunscreen (snow reflects sunlight)
Water bottles and purification tablets
Tip: You can rent trekking gear easily in Kathmandu before flying to Lukla.
Cost of Everest Base Camp Trek in Winter
The cost depends on your trekking style. Here’s a rough idea:
Budget Trek: USD 900 – 1100
Standard Trek (with guide and porter): USD 1200 – 1500
Luxury Trek: USD 1800 – 2300
This usually includes permits, flights, guide, porter, accommodation, and meals during the trek.
Accommodation and Food in Winter
Most tea houses remain open even in winter. They offer:
Warm rooms with twin beds
Cozy dining halls with heaters
Simple but delicious food like:
Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables)
Noodles and soup
Tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
Carry a sleeping bag because nights can get very cold.
How Hard Is the Everest Base Camp Trek in Winter?
It’s moderate to difficult, mostly because of the cold and altitude. You don’t need to be a professional trekker, but you should:
Exercise and hike regularly before your trip
Walk slowly and rest often
Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness
Thousands of trekkers complete it every year—even in winter!
Permits You Need
You’ll need two permits for this trek:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
If you book through a trekking company, they’ll arrange everything for you.
Why Trekking with a Guide Is Best in Winter?
Trekking solo in winter is risky because of cold weather and snow-covered trails. Hiring a local guide and porter makes your trek safer and easier. They help with:
Navigation
Accommodation
Carrying your bag
Emergency support
The Everest Base Camp Trek in winter is not just a trek—it’s a life-changing journey. You’ll walk through peaceful snow trails, meet kind locals, and stand in the shadow of the world’s highest peak. If you’re looking for quiet, beauty, and adventure, winter is a perfect time to visit. Dress warmly, stay hydrated, and let the Himalayas take your breath away—literally and emotionally.
Quick Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in Winter
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in winter is a wonderful experience, but you must be smart and prepared. These simple tips will help you enjoy every step safely and comfortably:
1. Dress in Layers
Wear clothes in three layers – base, middle, and outer.
Base Layer: Keeps your body warm (thermal wear).
Middle Layer: Keeps heat in (fleece or wool sweater).
Outer Layer: Protects from wind and snow (down or waterproof jacket).
You can easily remove or add layers when needed.
2. Keep Your Feet Warm
Cold feet can make walking hard.
Wear woolen or thermal socks.
Always keep a dry pair for the night.
Don’t wear tight shoes; it reduces blood flow and makes your feet colder.
3. Stay Hydrated
Even in cold weather, your body needs water.
Drink 3 to 4 liters of water daily.
Carry a thermos with warm water or tea.
Avoid too much coffee or alcohol—they can make you dehydrated.
4. Start Trekking Early
Days are shorter in winter. Begin your trek by 7:30 AM so you can reach the next village before dark.
The mornings are sunny, and you’ll walk under clear blue skies.
5. Save Battery Power
Cold drains batteries fast!
Keep your phone and camera batteries inside your sleeping bag at night.
Bring a power bank or solar charger.
Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not needed.
6. Eat Enough Food
Your body burns more calories in cold weather.
Eat full meals like Dal Bhat, soups, and noodles.
Don’t skip breakfast.
Carry snacks like nuts, energy bars, or chocolates for the trail.
7. Rest and Acclimatize Properly
Go slow and steady.
Spend extra nights in Namche and Dingboche to adjust to the altitude.
Listen to your body — if you feel dizzy or have a headache, tell your guide right away.
8. Stay Warm at Night
Sleep with a good sleeping bag (-20°C rated).
Wear warm socks and a hat inside your bag.
Keep your water bottle filled with hot water – it makes a great hand warmer!
9. Always Trek with a Local Guide
In winter, some trails can be covered in snow. A local guide knows the safest paths, arranges warm rooms, and helps you in case of bad weather.
10. Add One Buffer Day in Your Itinerary
Because flights and weather can be unpredictable, it’s smart to keep one extra day at the end of your trek. This avoids stress if delays happen.
FAQs
1. Is it safe to trek to Everest Base Camp in winter?
Yes, it’s safe if you have the right warm clothing, a local guide, and proper preparation. The trails are open and peaceful.
2. Can I see Mount Everest clearly in winter?
Yes! Winter skies are very clear. You’ll get amazing views of Everest and other Himalayan peaks.
3. Do tea houses remain open in winter?
Most tea houses stay open. Only a few high-altitude ones may close after heavy snow.
4. How cold does it get at Everest Base Camp in winter?
It can drop to -20°C at night, but during the day, the sun makes it pleasant to walk.
5. What’s the best month to trek in winter?
December and early February are great months—less wind, clear skies, and fewer people.
6. Can beginners do the winter trek?
Yes! With good fitness and a positive attitude, beginners can enjoy the EBC trek even in winter.
7. What kind of training should I do before the Everest Base Camp winter trek?
You don’t need to be an athlete, but it helps to walk, hike, or climb stairs for at least 1–2 hours a day for a few weeks before your trek. Regular exercise helps your body adjust to walking long distances in the mountains.
8. Can I charge my phone or camera during the trek?
Yes, you can charge your devices in tea houses, but it may cost USD 2–5 per charge. In winter, the power supply can be slower, so it’s smart to carry a power bank or solar charger.
9. Do I need travel insurance for a winter trek to Everest Base Camp?
Absolutely yes! Always buy travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m) and emergency helicopter rescue. It’s very important for safety, especially in winter.
10. What are the chances of flight delays to and from Lukla in winter?
Flights can be delayed due to fog or strong winds, especially in early mornings. It’s wise to keep an extra buffer day in your travel plan for flexibility.
The Everest Base Camp Trek in winter is not just a journey through snow and mountains — it’s a journey into your heart. The peace of the frozen trails, the sparkle of snow on the peaks, and the kindness of Sherpa people make this adventure truly special.
