Baskadia

General Info on the Everest Base Camp Trek in December

The trek to Everest Base Camp begins from Lukla. Thereon, the trek proceeds through Sherpa villages like Namche, Tengboche, and Pheriche. The Buddhist culture and lifestyle are evident in the religious monuments spread throughout the trail. The Sagarmatha National Park entertains the trekkers on every step of the trek whereas the Himalayas prove to be quite a stress reliever. The temperature in Everest Base Camp in December goes below zero degrees. Despite the cold weather, trekkers can easily witness clear views of the Himalayas.

Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek in December

The month of December is often under-appreciated for the experience that it offers on the Everest Base Camp Trek. While this month does see the beginning of winter, there are a number of highlights including:

Wonderful views of different mountain ranges

The lesser crowd of people on the trekking trails

Experience the wonderful culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people

Walkthrough the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site

Everest Base Camp Weather in December

December is the start of winter and the coldest month in Nepal. Needless to say, the areas at higher altitudes are colder than those at lower altitudes. In the higher altitudes, the temperature usually falls below 0℃ in December. Snowfall is common, and as a result, the temperature may lower even further. Also, the weather at the high altitude is pretty much unpredictable so, it's better to rely on the weather forecast before you continue the trek.

Everest Base Camp Temperature in December

Since December lies in winter, the overall temperature remains below zero in December. Especially, the Everest district is freezing frigid cold in the mornings and at night. At night, the temperature can drop as low as – 14℃. The temperature ranges from 10 degrees to 15 degrees Celsius during the daytime. However, the temperature can also be lower depending on the weather conditions on that day.

Accommodation and Food While Trek in December

On the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will be accommodated in different teahouses and lodges. The accessible cabins and teahouses will provide you with rooms and good food. Since December is not a peak trekking month, some of the teahouses and lodges might be closed. This is also due to the harsh weather conditions during December. However, there will be fewer queues in the lodges. In some rare cases, you might have to share your room with other trekkers. The foods served are also very tasty and healthy. Usually, the menu contains Nepali food; yet, foreign delicacies like pasta and spaghetti are also available in some places. 

Difficulties During December Everest Base Camp Trek

Altitude and weather remain the major threats on the trip. There are multiple altitude variations while ascending and descending the EBC. Similarly, AMS (acute mountain sickness) is always a major risk on high-altitude treks. Descending to a lower altitude must be the immediate course of action if s/he begins to show symptoms of altitude sickness.

Other than this, the weather is a major risk factor. At high altitudes, you never know when the weather might change so, it's better to check the forecast before going for the trek. Snowfall is very common during the winter so, the trail might get extra slippery and tough. So, extra carefulness is required with going on a trek during winter. You can reach the base camp on a helicopter directly if you do not want to walk in the high mountain region with cold temperatures. The Everest base camp helicopter tour is one of the best mountain luxury tours that you can do in Nepal.

Packing list for December Everest Base Camp Trek

As mentioned above, December falls in winter so, taking equipment with you is a must. Here is the basic list of equipment and clothing required:

Sleeping bag

Trekking boots (waterproof)

Trekking T-shirt

Thermals

Down jacket

Down Trousers

Trekking Poles

Besides these obvious gears, trekkers can include other items like:

Torch

Water bottle

Life Straw

Trekking shoes and socks

First Aid Kit

Ruck Sack

Trekking map

Duffle Bag

Sunglasses

Conclusion

Everest Base Camp is a major landmark in the Himalayas of Nepal. However, only a few are daring enough to take the difficulties to meet their dreams. December is a perfect time for those who wish to challenge the extremities of nature. As such, there are plenty of perks to doing the Everest Base Camp Trek in December.