Some Tips on Everest Base Camp Trek in December
Gear to prepared
December is the start of the winter season in the Himalayas; thus, having the appropriate gear is a must to complete the journey to the Everest base camp. We recommend having a suitable sleeping bag and down jacket that can withstand -15 degrees. Well-insulated trekking boots, a Woolen cap, mitten gloves, thermal underwear, Windstopper pants, and jackets are also recommended. Trekking trousers, sun cream, and sunglasses are also essential for this winter trekking to the Everest base camp.
Accommodation on the Base camp trek
There are many teahouses at Everest base camp with various facilities. Typically, all teahouses have a cozy dining hall and twin-bedded rooms. Do not accept any heating or warmer room while on the trek. Usually, the dining room gets heated in the evening. Due to the temperature below zero degrees, expect frozen water and some snow on trails while on the December hike to the base camp.
Can we do the Everest base camp trek in December?
You can do this Everest base camp trek in December. It is the best time to do it if you are from a colder region, and the typical cold is not a big issue.
Trail conditions in winter
The trekking routes to Everest base camp do not go over the high passes. They usually involve gradual ups and downs, making them relatively straightforward and safe to hike. We can expect snowfall towards late December, which usually disappears within a few hours.
Temperature- Everest base camp trek
Expect the temperature to be below zero degrees for a few nights at a higher elevation. Be prepared accordingly once you decide to do this Everest base camp trek in December. The daytime temperature could go as high as 5 to 15 degrees, and the nighttime temperature can drop to 15 degrees at a higher elevation.
Pros and Cons
The best thing to do the Everest base camp trek in December is the clear sky with great mountain profiles around. You won't meet the popular trekking crowd during the busy trekking season. The only cons of winter trekking to Everest is that it gets colder at night. Having great gear on colder nights is not an issue to stop the trekkers from going on their journey in winter.
Food and Drinks
On this trek to Everest base camp, we can have Nepalese and assorted food items. While hiking, Nepali meals like rice, vegetable curry, and lintel are the best. You can also have meals like noodles, items made from potatoes, etc. You may wish to try pizza or cakes in some places. It is always better to have adequately boiled drinking water than plastic bottled water on the trek.
Lukla Flight
The half-hour flight to Lukla is one of the most exciting ways to start the journey to the Everest region. Twin Otters or Dornier 228 planes usually land at the Lukla runway, which is just 527 meters long and has an 11.7% gradient. The flight to Lukla depends on weather conditions, and it is better to have extra days in your pocket to deal with any unpredicted weather situation.
