Winter Everest Base Camp Trek in December and January

based on 15+ reviews

Country
Nepal

Duration
14 Days

Maximum altitude
5545m

Activity
Trekking

Difficulty
Moderate / Strenuous

Best Season
September, October, November, December, February to April

Accomodation

Meals
Excluded

Start/End Point
Kathmandu

Trek Overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek in December and January ranks among the most stunning and yet most challenging adventures in the Himalayas, offering brave trekkers a unique opportunity to enjoy superbly clear mountain views, as well as the experience of great solitude on trails that are normally crowded with people at other times. Winter trekking to EBC in these months entails freezing temperatures, snow-covered trails, and a few teahouses open. However, for those who are well-equipped, the benefits are fabulous.

Understanding the Everest winter conditions is very important before going on this winter EBC trek. The weather at EBC in December usually offers the most stable conditions, and the temperatures during the day are around 5°C to 5°C near Namche Bazaar, but they drop considerably as you go up. On the other hand, the EBC January temperature is a bit lower, but this drawback offers great visibility of the highest peaks and the clearest blue skies, which makes them look even sharper and more beautiful.

The Everest trek in cold weather is very demanding, and the first thing one has to do is to make a suitable packing list for the winter, which of course includes a sleeping bag rated for -20°C, an insulated down jacket, several thermal layers, and face protection from the cold winds. The winter Everest tour itinerary must have buffer days for bad weather delays and a trekking pace that is slower due to snow and ice. The majority of winter trekkers do the journey in 12-14 days, but it is advisable to include extra acclimatization days when your body has to work hard to keep the core temperature at altitude.

The December Nepal trekking route demands the same permits as during the other seasons: the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the TIMS card. During the winter months, flight availability to Lukla is very unpredictable, so it is necessary to incorporate flexibility into your schedule to manage potential weather-related delays efficiently.

According to real trekkers, the Khumbu Region in winter shows an otherworldly beauty that hardly ever appears: one can see frozen waterfalls, hear prayer flags crackle against the cold wind, and experience the deep quietness that comes when the snow covers all the valleys. The difficulties are significant: very low temperatures, the danger of frostbite, and delays on flights to Lukla, but trekkers who are well-equipped and trained always consider winter as their most unforgettable experience among the Himalayas. Moreover, as there are no tourists, the visitors can spend more time in close contact with Sherpa families and lodge owners who kindly and patiently provide them with stories and cultural insights

Trek Highlights

Enjoy unprecedented visibility during the winter season when crystal-clear skies present breath-taking and unobstructed views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and countless Himalayan giants, including the majestic Ama Dablam, bathed in their most pristine colors.

Enjoy the quiet ambience of trekking with fewer crowds, which are fewer during winter due to fewer trekkers, and have a more authentic cultural experience interacting with the Sherpas.

Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp, at the foot of the highest mountain peak in the world, and fulfill your mountaineering ambitions amidst the majestic Khumbu Icefall and ice cliffs.

In witness to the most spectacular sunrise panorama, climb to the top of Kala Patthar, which gives unbeatable views of Mount Everest bathed in the golden light of first light.

Hike through the majestic Sagarmatha National Park, which is also a World Heritage Site, and witness the varying landscapes, ranging from forests of rhododendron to high-altitude glacial areas during winter.

Go to the largest and most revered Buddhist monastery in the region, Tengboche, and take part in the unforgettable prayer ceremonies while basking in the mountain views amidst winter silence.

Experience the true Sherpa hospitality and culture, and indulge yourself in the villages of Namche Bazaar, Pangboche, and Dingboche, and learn about the rich mountaineering history.

Capture breathtaking winter scenes with snow-dusted treks, ice-covered waterfalls, pristine white mountain ranges, and colorful prayer flags against a deep blue sky—making once-in-a-lifetime photographs of Himalayan splendor

Outline Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,380m)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will be greeted warmly by our team. Transfer to your comfortable hotel in Kathmandu. Rest and prepare for your upcoming Everest Base Camp winter adventure. Overnight in a Kathmandu hotel.

Day 2

Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,810m) -Trek Phakding (2,652m)

Take an exciting mountain flight to Lukla's Tenzing-Hillary Airport. Start trekking through a lovely pine forest beside the Dudh Koshi River, which leads to Phakding village. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 3

Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,446m)

Cross suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags, ascending through rhododendron forests. Your first glimpse of Mount Everest appears before reaching Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 4

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar - Excursion to Syangboche (3,880m)

Essential acclimatization day with a hike to Syangboche for stunning Everest panoramas. Explore the vibrant markets of Namche, its bakeries, and the Sherpa Culture Museum. Return to Namche for an overnight at the mountain lodge.

Day 5

Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867m)

Hike through magnificent rhododendron and juniper forests with spectacular mountain views. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. One can get spiritual experiences by attending the evening prayers. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 6

Tengboche to Dingboche (4,260m)

Descend to Debuche, cross the Imja River, then ascend steadily to Dingboche. Pass through Pangboche village with incredible Ama Dablam views. Entering higher altitude zones with stunning landscapes. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 7

Acclimatization - Excursion to Chhukung Village

Another important acclimatization day with an optional hike to Chhukung Valley. Superb views of Island Peak and other surrounding giants are seen. Return to Dingboche for rest and preparation. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 8

Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930m)

Hike through the Khumbu Glacier's terminal moraine, where increasingly stunning views await. Traverse Thukla Pass, stopping to pay respects to fallen climbers. Arrive in Lobuche surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 9

Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140m) - Everest Base Camp(5,364m)

Trek to Gorak Shep, drop packs, then continue to Everest Base Camp. Fulfill your trekking dream by standing at the base of the world's highest mountain. Return to Gorak Shep. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 10

Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545m) - Descend to Pheriche (4,230m)

Early morning climb to Kala Patthar for a spectacular sunrise over Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori. Descend through Lobuche to reach Pheriche village for a well-deserved rest. Long but rewarding day. Overnight at a mountain lodge.

Day 11

Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

Long descent through Pangboche and Tengboche—retrace the steps through beautiful forests. Notice how much easier breathing becomes at lower altitudes. Reach the familiar Namche Bazaar for celebration. Overnight at the mountain lodge.

Day 12

Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Final trekking day descending through forests and villages back to Lukla. Celebrate the successful completion with your trekking team and guides. Share stories and memories of your incredible journey. Overnight at the a mountain lodge.

Day 13

Fly Lukla to Kathmandu

Morning flight back to Kathmandu with the last views of the mountains. Transfer to your hotel for hot showers and comfortable beds. Explore Thamel for souvenirs and a celebration dinner. Overnight at a Kathmandu hotel.

Day 14

Departure from Kathmandu

Our team transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of your winter Everest Base Camp adventure and lifetime Himalayan experiences.

Package Price

Price Table

Travelers	1	2	3	4	5	6
Silver	USD 1460	USD 1105	USD 1090	USD 1080	USD 970	USD 965
Gold	USD 1790	USD 1435	USD 1420	USD 1320	USD 1315	USD 1310

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Semi-Full Board Option The silver price is a semi-full board package that offers flexibility, allowing you to pay for your own food and mountain lodge accommodation according to your personal choices and preferences. All other services included are the same as the Gold price.

Price Includes

Airport-to-hotel pick up and drop-off by private vehicle
Two-night hotel in Kathmandu at a three-star category in BB plan
One highly experienced mountain Guide and porter
One dinner with a typical Nepali culture show in Kathmandu
Accommodation, food, drinks, salary, insurance, transportation of both the trek guide and the porter
Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bags, duffel bag, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
Group medical supplies (first aid kit)
All necessary papers, work, and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
TIMS Card (Trekker’s Information Management System card)
Khumbu Village community entry fees
All additional government tax
All ground transportation is by private vehicle.
Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu airfare. (Ramechap–Lukla / Lukla–Ramechap)
Trek Guide airfare.

Price Excludes

Other ground transportation
Nepal entry visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days/USD 50 for 30 days from the date of issue) (You may easily get a Nepal visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.)
Accommodation in the Mountain Lodge, run by local people during a trek
All meals during trekking
International airfare
Travelers Insurance
Cold and hot drinks (alcohol and cold drinks)
Boiled water, Hot shower, Mineral water, battery charge, and hot drinks (in a pot)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Bar bills, telephone bills, and other personal expenses (shopping/laundry)
Tips to guide and porter
All expenses due to unavoidable events, e.g., personal illness, strike, etc.
Helicopter evacuation charge in case of emergency whilst trekking
We don't include drinking water on the trek, which you can buy at several places for between $1 and $3 a bottle (it gets more expensive towards base camp). A better solution is to buy water tablets in Kathmandu for around $2 and treat the water (your guide can help you find good places to fill your water bottle).
The other things not included on the trek are things like Wi-Fi, charging batteries, and hot showers. Wifi is available in some teahouses for $3 to $5 an hour. Hot showers are also available in a few places for around $4 and cost about $1.50 an hour.
Unforeseen costs due to flight cancellation, weather conditions, etc. You are responsible for extra hotel nights ($30/night) and meals in Kathmandu for any extra days in Nepal due to flight delays.

Full Board Option The Full Board package is an all-inclusive plan that covers three daily meals and accommodation in mountain lodges throughout the trek. It offers complete peace of mind, eliminating the need to think about daily expenses for food or lodging—everything is arranged in advance, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your trek.

Price Includes

Airport-to-hotel pick up and drop-off by private vehicle
Two-night hotel in Kathmandu at a three-star category in BB Plan.
Accommodation in the Mountain Lodge run by local people during a trek
Meal on full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and a cup of tea/coffee with each meal during the trek
One dinner with a typical Nepali culture show in Kathmandu
One highly experienced mountain Guide and Porter
Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bags, duffel bag, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
Accommodation, food, drinks, salary, insurance, transportation of both the trek guide and the Porter
Group medical supplies (first aid kit)
All necessary papers, work, and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
TIMS Card (Trekker’s Information Management System card)
Khumbu Village community entry fee
All additional government tax
All ground transportation is by private vehicle.
Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu airfare. (Ramechap-Lukla-Ramechap)
Trek guide airfare.

Price Excludes

Other ground transportation
Nepal entry visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days/USD 50 for 30 days from the date of issue) (You may easily get a Nepal visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.)
International airfare
Travelers Insurance
Cold hotel drinks
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Boiled water, Hot shower, Mineral water, battery charge, and hot drinks (in a pot)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Bar bills, telephone bills, and other personal expenses (shopping/laundry)
Tips to guide and porter
All expenses due to unavoidable events, e.g., personal illness, strike, etc.
Helicopter evacuation charge in case of emergency whilst trekking
We don't include drinking water on the trek, which you can buy at several places for between $1 and $3 a bottle (it gets more expensive towards base camp). A better solution is to buy water tablets in Kathmandu for around $2 and treat the water (your guide can help you find good places to fill your water bottle).
The other things not included on the trek are Wi-Fi, charging batteries, and hot showers. Wifi is available in some teahouses for $3 to $5 an hour. Hot showers are also available in a few places for around $4 and cost about $1.50 an hour.
Unforeseen costs due to flight cancellation, weather conditions, etc. You are responsible for extra hotel nights ($30/night) and meals in Kathmandu for any extra days in Nepal due to flight delays.

Detailed Itinerary

Extend Your Trip

Kathmandu valley sightseeing

Day yoga retreat tour

Elephant safari tour in Chitwan National Park

Day 2-3

Chitwan national park tour 2 nights 3 days

Trek FAQs

Layering is not optional during winter. The drastic temperature changes and chilling cold require a layering solution that you can strip off and add to when the need arises. Begin with base layers (top and bottom) comprising wool or synthetic materials that draw sweat away from the body. You shall also require a warm layer, which could be a fleece jacket and an insulated vest. This should then be topped with a robust, wind-resistant, and water-repellent down jacket capable of withstanding temperatures below -20°C. As for leg layers, go for insulated trekking trousers and wear water-resistant shell trousers when it is snowing and/or very windy. Winter EBC also has to pay attention to your extremities. You should wear thick wool or synthetic trekking socks (with liner socks underneath) and carry insulated, waterproof boots with strong ankle support. You should wear thin liner gloves under thicker insulated mittens and gloves, and also carry spare ones. As regards your head, you should carry a wool or fleece hat to cover the ears, a balaclava or neck gaiter to protect against the wind, and sunglasses or ski goggles to protect against snow blindness due to strong UV radiation. Keep in mind that the temperatures could go to -5°C during sunny afternoons at lower slopes and -20°C or below during nights near the base camp. The clothing layers should also be able to adjust to changes.

When trekking to EBC during winter, it is important to pack clothes with consideration to minimizing weight and maximizing warmth. These should include base layers—a total of three sets; mid-layers—two fleeces; a heavyweight down jacket with -20°C insulation; water-resistant jacket and trousers; wool trekking socks—four; water-resistant insulated trekking boots; a warm hat, balaclava, and sun hat; and gloves and insular mittens. What to Consider Regarding Backpacking Equipment: In addition to requiring technical gear ranging from a four-season bivvy sack (-20°C. Essential on cold nights), a bivvy sack liner, a headlamp and spare batteries (work less well when cold), trekking poles (ice), UV-protected sunglasses, ski goggles (windy conditions), and a large backpack (60-70 L. These are used by porters.), and a convenient daypack (20-30 L). Used during the day, have not forgotten sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm (SPF), a basic first-aid kit, water purification tablets, insulated water bottles and/or a thermos, a quick-drying towel, hygiene products, and any MEDICATION. Other essential items to carry during winter are hand and toe warmers, gaiters to prevent entry of snow, crampons if ice is to be crossed, plastic bags used to keep things dry and organize gear, a power bank to charge devices, and a book to keep oneself engaged during long, cold nights spent inside mountain lodges. High-calorie foods such as nuts, chocolates, and energy bars could also be packed, given the increased calorie requirements due to cold temperatures.

Yes, you are able to use a cell phone, but reception is patchy and weaker the higher you climb. You can expect reception to go up to Namche Bazaar (3,446m) on Ncell and Nepal Telecom, to be moderately weak on Tengboche and Dingboche, and to have little to no signal after Lobuche and Everest Base Camp. Internet access is possible, but most of the time it is slow and costs between 3 to 5 USD on average. Moreover, the cold temperatures consume batteries faster, so it is important to keep the phone against oneself if it is not in use and power banks along. Charging also costs $2-4 per device, although it can be intermittent above timberline. Solar power is used by some lodges. The limited power source is a concern during winter. In order to extend the battery life, keep the phone on airplane mode if you are not using data, download maps before traveling, and take a solar charger. Also, keep devices safe and dry by placing them inside waterproof bags. Don't count on your phone during emergencies. If you need to keep in touch with the family, it is often less expensive to purchase a SIM card either from Ncell or Nepal Telecom when you are in Kathmandu, and you will have reliable service up to mid-village altitude.

As long as adequate planning, fitness, and equipment are achieved, December and January treks to EBC are safe but are more challenging than spring and autumn treks. Challenges to expect are exposure to very cold temperatures (where night temperatures are potentially below -20°C), the possibility of frostbite (where management is also time-sensitive), altitude-related illnesses that are aggravated by cold exposure, and interruptions to plane schedules to Lukla. Winter trekking: Is it safe to trek to Everest Base Camp during December and January? Safety involves hiring qualified local guides, having flexible itineraries and built-in contingency days for weather-related delays, using four-season gear such as down sleeping bags and insulated clothing, having high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation arrangements covered by a wide-ranging travel insurance policy, staying hydrated when not feeling so, and recognizing the onset of frostbite and hypothermia. The success rate of winter EBC treks is approximately 80-85%. According to various sources, most people have to turn back due to improper gear, underestimating the cold, and problems associated with altitude, and not due to harsh weather. The trekking spots on the standard route are operational during winter, although the selection is fewer, and the number of trekkers is less, so trekkers will have the chance to experience the authentic charm of the Himalayas.

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Traveler Review

Name: Email: City/Country: , Review: Winter trekking to Everest Base Camp was wonderful. The journey was unforgettable with clear skies, silent roads, and stunning snowy views. The cold was harsh, but our guide was always there with his support and encouragement. If you are someone who loves trekking in silence with no crowds around December is the time for you!

The winter EBC trek was an amazing experience for me! January presented the best mountain views I have ever encountered. It was freezing, but the teahouses were warm and comfortable. Our guide made sure we were always well-prepared. A great adventure for winter people.

Winter EBC trekking presented the possibility to have, so to speak, the whole world to oneself when it comes to the snow-covered landscape, as the trail was very quiet. The cold was very bad, but it was not totally unbearable thanks to our good gear. Plus our guide was great, and he/she really made the trip unforgettable and at the same time safe.

Trekking in December was magical—snow-covered scenery, fewer crowds, and beautiful sunsets. The route was tough but rewarding. The guide took care of us and made sure each moment was safe and nice. A lovely winter experience.

January’s clear skies made every mountain view incredible. The cold nights were worth it for peaceful trails and amazing scenery. An excellent guide and a well-managed trekking experience by Himalayan Smile Treks.

Breathtaking was the winter EBC trek. Snow-dusted paths and peaceful teahouses were the special things. The guide was informed and helpful all the time during the trip. It is a great place for people who want both beauty and isolation.

Winter trek to EBC was freezing but wonderful. Unobstructed mountain vistas, tranquil paths, and friendly locals turned the journey into a lifetime experience. Our guide was managing everything in an ideal way. Strongly suggested.

The winter landscape was beautiful—snowy trails, empty towns, and the sight of Everest turned out to be great. Trekking in January was tranquil and secure, as our guide was very skilled. An extraordinary winter experience!

The winter EBC trek was amazing. Cold mornings turned into beautiful, clear skies. The path was quiet, and our guide made sure we were always warm and safe. Unbelievable experience.

The January hike gave us splendid views. The snowy scenery was like a fairy tale, and our guide kept us supported all the time. Even with the frost, the trip was easy and cozy. A lovely winter hike.

Unforgettable was the winter trek to the Everest Base Camp. The mountain views with the clear skies and snow were amazing and unbelievable. The warmth of the teahouses and the help of our guide made it all very smooth and fun.

The trek to EBC in December was a tranquil experience with gorgeous views of snow-covered peaks. With the right equipment, the cold weather was tolerable. Himalayan Smile Treks did a perfect job in organizing everything, and we had a great guide.

The January EBC trek was amazing. Perfect trekking conditions were created by the bright visibility, valleys filled with snow, and deserted paths. The guide team was very attentive to our needs. An excellent experience of trekking in winter.

It was a spectacular experience trekking to Everest Base Camp in winter. The unique aspects of the trip were the snowy peaks, tranquil mornings, and the lack of people on the trails. The very low temperatures were tough, but the heated lodges were a big help. wonderful winter adventure.

The December EBC trek was among my top adventures. Amazing winter scenery all around. It was cold but bearable. Our guide took care of our safety and comfort. Winter trekking in Nepal is a must-do activity, and I will certainly recommend it.

Daniel Foster

London

Priya Nair

Kochi

Oliver Weber

Munich

Sarah Morgan

Boston

Liam O’Connor

Dublin

Emma Johansson

Stockholm

David Kim

Seoul

Anna Rossi

Milan

Jack Thompson

Sydney

Emily Clarke

Toronto

Lucas Pereira

São Paulo

Chloe Martin

Paris

Hannah Wilson

Auckland

Raj Patel

Mumbai

Emily Carter

oronto

Winter Everest Base Camp Trek in December and January

Trek Overview

Trek Highlights

Outline Itinerary

Package Price

Price Table

Price Includes

Price Excludes

Price Includes

Price Excludes

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,380m)

Day 2: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,810m) -Trek Phakding (2,652m)

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,446m)

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar - Excursion to Syangboche (3,880m)

Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867m)

Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,260m)

Day 7: Acclimatization - Excursion to Chhukung Village

Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930m)

Day 9: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140m) - Everest Base Camp(5,364m)

Day 10: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545m) - Descend to Pheriche (4,230m)

Day 11: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Day 13: Fly Lukla to Kathmandu

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

Extend Your Trip

Kathmandu valley sightseeing

Day yoga retreat tour

Day 2-3

Chitwan national park tour 2 nights 3 days

Trek FAQs

US$ 965 Person

Speak with a Nepal Adventure Travel Expert

Average Reviews Write a review

5 /5

Cleanliness

Service

Facilities

Location

Value for money

Traveler Review

Daniel Foster

Priya Nair

Oliver Weber

Sarah Morgan

Liam O’Connor

Emma Johansson

David Kim

Anna Rossi

Jack Thompson

Emily Clarke

Lucas Pereira

Chloe Martin

Hannah Wilson

Raj Patel

Emily Carter

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