Everest Base Camp Trek is a dream of a lifetime for the ones who wish to be close to the nature. For most of the people, it is a fantastic voyage than just a trek. The trek is a beautiful blend of the nature trek with a hint of cultural attractions. Mount Everest (8848 m) is the world’s highest peak and is one of the major landmarks of Nepal.
The journey to the Everest Base Camp starts with a mindboggling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and then to the Khumbu region of Nepal also known as the ‘Land of the Sherpa people”. The incredible trip to the Base Camp of the highest peak in the world passes through the rhododendron forests, rough trails, walking along the river banks and crossing several suspension bridges, through beautiful Sherpa Villages experiencing the unbelievable hospitality. Along the way, you will also spot some of the cultural landmarks such as monasteries, chortens which are highly decorated as per the Buddhist culture with the colorful prayer flags. As you walk higher, you will witness the dramatic change in the atmosphere with the sound of blowing of the wind into the trees and the soothing sound of the yak bells. The fantastic views of the Mountains such as Mt. Everest, Amadablam, Nuptse, Lothse, Makalu Choyu etc.
Nepal generally offers 4 seasons amongst which autumn and spring are the two most favorable ones for Trekking to Everest Base Camp
Spring (March to end of May):
During this time of year trekking to the Everest Base Camp is highly recommended as you will see the stunning views of the Himalayas. The days are sung with warm temperature favorable for hiking and trekking activities. The trails are lush and an abundant green at this season with the blooming of the rhododendron forest alongside the trail. Since, it is one of the most preferred season for trekking you will witness comparatively large number of visitors. Spring is also the season for the Expedition groups who are willing to risk their life and achieve their dreams of climbing the highest peak in the world.
Monsoon (June to early September):
The monsoon season starts from June and last till early September. Trekking during this time of year is generally difficult and uncomfortable as the trail becomes muddy, slippery. There are often times that the trails becomes leech infested. However, if you wish to trek despite of the rain then we would suggest you to carry an umbrella, poncho, proper waterproof hiking boots, wind proof jackets, baggage wrap, and raincoat as well as required insect repellent. It rains almost every day with occasional thunderstorms. Although, difficult but trekking to Everest is possible if you don’t mind the rain.
Autumn (Mid-September to November):
The best seasons and the most popular time to trek in Nepal are autumn, from mid-September till November. This is the best time for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Generally, the weather is clear with mild to warm days and cold nights. However, in the higher altitude, the nights drop into freezing temperature. In this season, the mountains views are astonishingly clear with abundant amount of snow. It offers a pleasant weather totally a paradise for the trekkers as you can see the trails would be occupied by the fellow trekkers.
Winter (December to February):
It is also possible to trek during winter, from December until the end of February as the temperature during days will be cooler; however, the nights will often be very cold. There are chances of semi-regular snowfall followed by winter storms at high altitudes. With the layers of thermal clothing and a strong desire of attaining the dream, one can trek to the base camp. The bright side of trekking to the Everest Base Camp during the winter is the sky during this season is clear and gives ample opportunity to view the panoramic mountains and a good time of the photography.
The above given information is just a guide line, one should be updated with the weather forecast and the changing environment condition.
