Going on an Everest Base Camp Trek is the adventure of a lifetime. But the most important thing in making a successful trip is knowledge of the Everest Base Camp weather by month and season. The Himalayan weather is unpredictable and severe, as it goes between extreme cold in the winter and monsoon rains.
Everest Base Camp is approximately 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) in height, and hence, weather conditions at this height are much more severe when compared to the lower altitudes. At any given time of the year, trekkers should be ready to encounter any weather condition, such as sunny days, cold nights, rain, or snow.
This is a complete weather guide to Everest Base Camp by month or the weather at Base Camp by season that assists you in finding the best month to do your trek. We will discuss the special challenges and features of each era, so you can decide which window would best suit your adventure.
Since the autumn skies are crystal-clear one day and the snow covers the entire surrounding the next, knowledge about weather patterns will make you carry the appropriate equipment and walk safely. We are going to take a closer look at the month-by-month and season-by-season breakdown of the weather at Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base Camp Weather by Season (Overview)
There are four trekking seasons in Nepal: spring, summer (monsoon), autumn, and winter. Every season presents its climate features in the region of Everest. This is an overview of the weather at Everest Base Camp by season, in order to see the bigger picture before looking at each specific month:
Spring (March to May) – Mild, Blooming & Busy
Spring is one of the best times of year for Everest Base Camp treks. As we examine the Everest Base Camp weather by season, spring stands out as a favorable period. Temperatures begin to warm up after the winter chill: daytime highs at Base Camp can range from around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) by late spring, and nights are cold but generally above -15°C (5°F).
It is dry and the skies are usually clear, particularly during the months of March and April, with excellent mountain views. The lower heights are worth the walk with the blooming rhododendrons and other wild flowers. Spring is also peak trekking season. In March, trails start reopening fully after winter, and by April, the route is full of trekkers from around the world.
The weather is relatively stable – very little rain or snow falls in these months. April tends to have near-perfect conditions: crisp mornings, bright sun, and not too cold. May remains a great time to trek, though late May can bring the first hints of the summer monsoon (a few more clouds or an isolated afternoon shower at lower elevations).
Overall, spring offers a wonderful balance: moderate temperatures, great visibility, and an energetic atmosphere with many fellow adventurers on the trail (and mountaineers gathering at Base Camp to prepare for Everest climbs).
Summer/Monsoon (June to August) – Warm, Wet & Tranquil
Summer in the Everest region coincides with the monsoon – a season of rain, clouds, and lush greenery. Everest Base Camp weather by season during summer is the most challenging, not because of the cold, but because of the rain and visibility. From June through August, the Nepal Himalayas receive the bulk of their annual precipitation.
In the lower valleys, expect frequent rain showers (especially in July and early August) and very high humidity. The trails become muddy and slippery; leeches thrive in the damp forests at lower altitudes. Landslides can occasionally occur on steep hillsides due to heavy rain, and flight schedules to Lukla (the trek’s starting point) are often disrupted by cloudy, foggy conditions.
At Base Camp’s elevation (~5,364 m), temperatures in summer are relatively warmer: daytime readings can reach about 8–12°C (46–54°F) on mild days, and nights hover around 0°C (32°F) or a bit above. The problem is, though, that the mountains are frequently covered with clouds. You may see very few trekkers, and often only catch brief glimpses of the peaks when the clouds part for an instant.
On the positive side, the scenery is bright green and covered with wildflowers because of the rain. Trekking numbers are also significantly lower as the monsoon is considered an off-season, meaning that the trail will be much quieter and calmer than in peak season.
In case you do not care about rain and can afford possible delays in traveling, summer trekking would be a choice that provides you with privacy and a special misty effect. All you need is a good rain suit, quick-drying clothes, and lots of patience with Mother Nature.
Autumn (September to November) – Clear, Stable & Popular
Autumn is the peak time for Everest trekking – many would argue it’s the very best season. As the monsoon retreats in early September, the air is left incredibly clear and clean. By late September, and especially throughout October and November, the Everest Base Camp weather by season is at its most stable. Days are typically sunny with brilliant blue skies, and nights are cold but not as extreme as deep winter.
Daytime temperatures at Base Camp in autumn often range from 5°C up to around 12°C (41°F–54°F) in early fall, gradually cooling in November. Night temperatures start out around -5°C (23°F) in late September/early October, dropping to about -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F) by late November as winter approaches.
The key feature of autumn is minimal precipitation – rain is very rare after mid-September, and heavy snow is less common before late November, though occasional autumn storms can still bring significant snow at higher elevations. That means dry trails and excellent trekking conditions.
Visibility is outstanding; this is when you get those postcard-worthy views of Everest and the surrounding giants, sharp against the sky. It’s also a comfortable time to trek: not too hot, not too cold (at least until late fall), making it easier to walk for hours during the day.
Because of these factors, autumn (especially October) is the peak trekking season, rivaling April. Crowds are at their highest in October, when trekkers fill the lodges and trails. November sees fewer people, offering a bit more tranquility while still enjoying great weather. Autumn is also when many cultural festivals in Nepal occur (like Dashain and Tihar in October/Nov), which can add a rich cultural experience to your trip.
Winter (December to February) – Frigid, Clear & Quiet
The winter in the Everest area is very cold but mostly clear. During the day, the temperature at the base of Everest can range roughly between -15°C and 0°C depending on the sun and wind, and then drop below -20°C during the night, particularly in January. The climate is dry with normally bright and clear skies, which provide beautiful views of the mountains.
When western weather systems come, deep snow or icy tracks can be left behind as a result of a snowstorm. Certain high routes, such as the passes, are usually closed, and numerous teahouses above the lower altitude close down. Everest summit expeditions are extremely rare in winter, and there are far fewer trekkers, so Base Camp feels very quiet compared to spring or autumn.
To seasoned trekkers, winter is a quiet time in the wilderness where one can get to observe the local Sherpas’ life when there is no tourist season. The days are, however, short, and the cold is very intense, and conditions change very fast.
When you intend to trek during winter, then bring the right winter equipment, be adaptable to your time schedule, and be ready for the weather and elevation. Even a sunny day in winter at the Everest Base Camp can be a beautiful sight, with temperatures being very low. Snow, ice, and other extreme weather should be prepared for by trekkers.
From this Everest Base Camp weather by season overview, it’s clear that each time of year offers a very different trekking experience – from dry, frigid winters to warm, wet monsoons, to the mild and clear months in between. Next, let’s break down the Everest Base Camp weather by month to see how conditions change throughout the year.
Everest Base Camp Weather by Month (Detailed Breakdown)
Every month in the Everest region has its own character. Below is a month-by-month guide for trekkers, covering typical temperatures, weather conditions, and what to expect on the trail in each month. (Note: Temperature ranges mentioned are for higher elevations near or at Everest Base Camp (5,364 m).
Lower villages on the approach, like Lukla (2,800 m) or Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), will be significantly warmer – often 10–15°C higher than Base Camp during the day – especially outside winter. Conversely, higher points like Kala Patthar or mountain passes will be colder.)
January – Coldest and Quietest
The month of January is among the toughest months in the EBC weather pattern. It is the season of winter, and the temperature is extremely low. Base Camp temperatures tend to stay in the -15 o C -10 o C range during the day, but at night they may drop to as low as -25 o C. There are a lot of areas of the trail covered with snow and ice that slow down and complicate walking.
The air is dry and the sky is crystal clear, and the views are fantastic of Everest and the surrounding peaks. Due to the extreme cold, most of the high-altitude teahouses shut down. The number of trekkers coming there is very low, making the whole region look serene and deserted. This may be an engaging, beautiful experience, but it takes a lot of winter trekking experience.
February – Freezing but Slightly Better
It is still deep winter in the Everest region in February. The Everest Base Camp Weather by Month pattern makes February feel a lot like January, with a bit more daylight and a bit warmer afternoons. The days at Base Camp are normally between -10°C and -5°C, and nights may be as much as twenty degrees below zero during the first half of the month. The climate is dry and the sky is mostly clear and providing a good sight of Everest and the mountains around it.
Snow may also block the route, and walking can be slow or slippery in certain areas. Even little storms have the power to drop fresh snow along higher routes. In between tempests is calmness and the peace of the weather. The number of trekkers is very low in February, making the route quiet and relaxed. A few teahouses are reopening towards the end of the month, and spring slowly approaches.
You may see very few trekkers, and often only catch brief glimpses of the peaks when the clouds part for an instant. February is a true winter month in the Everest Base Camp weather pattern. Trekkers should carry warm clothes and good boots, and ample time to acclimatize safely. In case you can bear the cold, February is a good month to walk calmly and enjoy the mountainous scenery.
March – Spring Awakening in the Khumbu
The spring trekking season starts in March. On the Everest Base Camp Weather by Month timeline, it is the first month that the conditions start to improve after winter. Days become longer and the sun is warmer. During the day, the temperatures at Base Camp are normally as low as minus five to zero degrees Celsius. It is cold, but the nights are now manageable than in January and February.
March is generally dry and stable. Still, it might experience light snowfall or windy days in early March, but massive winter storms become less frequent. The sky is either clear or slightly cloudy, and this also offers beautiful scenery of the mountains. Down below, the snow begins to melt, and tiny little flowers begin to emerge on the ground.
As the month goes on, more trekkers are attracted to the region. Teahouses are open, and the Khumbu area is active once again. The Everest Base Camp weather by season cycle. March is spring, and it is a very pleasant time to trek, in case you desire better weather and reduced crowds. Still, warm clothes are required, but most people are comfortable.
April – High Season with Good weather
The EBC weather cycle records April as one of the most favored months in the Everest Base Camp. The climate is predictable, cool, and tends to be very clear. The temperature of Base Camp during the day is approximately zero to five degrees Celsius. Nights are lower than in freezing yet not as severe as in winter. Further along the trail, it can be warm and pleasant in the afternoons.
In April, there is very little rain and snow. The majority of the mornings begin with blue sky and tremendous sights of Everest and Ama Dablam, and other mountains. The mid-altitude forests are full of blooming rhododendron flowers. The walking paths are comfortable and dry.
The month of April is the most active month of trekking. Lots of individuals come during this period, and tea houses may be crowded, particularly in major villages. Base Camp also has numerous climbing teams on the approach to the Everest summit season.
April falls in the spring season at Everest Base Camp, which is the core of the spring. It is ideal among trekkers, who like to count on reliable weather, colourful natural landscape, and vivid atmosphere in the mountains.
May – Warm Days with Pre Monsoon Hints
May is also a good month to go trekking, as well as the warmest month of spring in the Everest Base Camp Weather by Month guide. The temperature during the day in Base Camp goes up to five to ten degrees Celsius, with the nighttime temperatures remaining at the freezing point. Afternoons can be very hot at a lower altitude.
The beginning of May is quite similar to April, with sunny mornings and good conditions for walking around. The first light showers and the increase in the number of clouds in the afternoon may be seen as you pass through the weeks. This is referred to as the pre-monsoon season. The mornings are generally bright with splendid scenes of the mountains.
May is also the peak season for Everest climbers. Base Camp is crowded with colorful tents and busy crews who are planning to climb the summits. Trekkers usually like to watch the action and the excitement.
It is still early (the beginning of May), and crowds are still observed, although gradually reducing later in the month. The last phase of spring before the monsoon comes in the Everest Base Camp weather by the seasonal cycle of May. It is a good option when you prefer warm days and cannot be bothered by the possibility that the afternoon clouds may appear.
June – Monsoon Arrives Slowly
June is the beginning of summer rains and the end of spring. In the Everest Base Camp Weather by Month chart, it is the first real monsoon month. There might still be some clear mornings in early June, but clouds and showers become the norm in the middle of the month.
Base Camp has a daytime temperature ranging between 5-10 degrees Celsius. Night temperatures are between zero to five degrees. Further on the trail, it is hot and damp. There is a lot of rain usually in the afternoon and evening. Rain waters turn trails wet and muddy, and rivers are stronger.
The mountains are not seen properly as the clouds limit the view. But the landscape turns out to be green and fresh with numerous falls of water. In June, there are very few trekkers, and hence the trails are quiet and peaceful.
The early monsoon is in June in the weather by season cycle in the Everest Base Camp. Lukla flights are subject to delay caused by cloud and fog, thus trekkers need to be flexible. The month of June is a good choice for those who love to stay alone and do not mind the rain.
July – Wet, Lush, and Quiet
The monsoon season is at its peak in July. It is one of the wettest months of the year in the Everest region. There are clouds, mist, or rain most days, particularly in the afternoon.
During the daytime, temperatures on Base Camp are approximately ten to thirteen degrees Celsius, and at night they are slightly above the freezing point. Areas that are lower are humid and warm. There are muddy trails and occasionally slippery. The wet ground can result in leeches in the lower sections of the forest.
There are not many mountain views due to clouds, but the scenery is very green and alive. Waterfalls are robust, and the valleys appear green and beautiful. Almost no trekkers in July, hence you will be having very quiet tracks and lots of spacing in the teahouses.
July is the major monsoon season in the Everest Base Camp weather by season cycle. It is not the best place to view the mountains, but it can be nice for trekking people who enjoy walking in peace and do not mind the rain.
August – Late Monsoon with gradual improvement
August is a continuation of the monsoon, but the weather gradually becomes better toward the end of the month. Still, this is a wet month in the Everest Base Camp Weather by Month series with frequent afternoon showers and cloudy weather.
During the day, the temperatures are approximately ten to twelve degrees Celsius, and at night, temperatures usually remain a few degrees above the freezing point at Base Camp. Further down the road, it is hot and damp. Tracks are still wet and sloppy, and rivers are still high with precipitation.
In short intervals, the sky may also clear, particularly in the mornings or late in the month. Such scenes may provide lovely scenes of the mountains, following the rain. The scenery remains quite lush and flowery and full of birdlife. There are very limited trekkers between the months of August, and this makes the place peaceful and tranquil.
The weather cycle of the Everest Base Camp is still in the monsoon season, however, with a mild transition to autumn. Travellers who are interested in quiet trails and who can tolerate uncertain weather will best enjoy it.
September – the start of autumn is fresh and clear
The good trekking conditions are back in September. The Everest Base Camp Weather by Month pattern for September presents a distinct shift in the weather between wet and dry. In early September, there might be some rainfall, but the situation changes almost instantly as the month goes by.
In mid to late September, the mornings are bright and visibility is extremely high. The temperatures in the Base Camp during daytime range between five to ten degrees Celsius. It is rather chilly with nights below freezing. Lower levels are cool and pleasant.
The terrain remains green due to the monsoon rainfall. Spots become dry and strolls become simple. The Lukla flights are also more dependable than during the rainy seasons. The number of crowds is lower at the beginning of the month and is augmented at the end when the popular season of autumn arrives.
The Everest Base Camp weather by season, September is early autumn. It is a beautiful season to be hiking when you desire clean air, sunny skies, and a average number of people.
October – Optimal Weather and Numerous Trekkers
The month of October is regarded as the best month in the calendar of Everest Base Camp Weather by Month. It is very clear, dry, and stable. The mountain scenery is clear and stunning on nearly all days.
During the day, Base Camp temperatures range between five and twelve degrees Celsius. Night temperatures go down to about minus five to minus ten degrees. Farther down the road, days are pleasant and warm. Rain is very rare in October.
The great weather attracts numerous trekkers. The trail and the teahouse may be congested, particularly in well-visited villages. The environment is welcoming and vibrant with citizens of diverse nations.
The weather by season of the Everest Base Camp during the month of October is the center of autumn and offers almost ideal conditions. It suits both travellers who desire clear skies, dry roads, and good weather. In advance planning is beneficial due to the large number of visitors.
November – Clear, Dry, Growing Colder
The other wonderful month in the Everest Base Camp Weather by Month is November. The climate remains dry and sunny, though the air is colder in winter.
The temperature at the Base Camp during the day at the beginning of November is approximately zero to five degrees Celsius. During the nights, it comes down to minus ten, minus fifteen degrees, particularly towards the end of the month. Lower regions remain nice at the beginning but become steadily colder.
The skies are also clear with the beautiful scenery of Everest and the surrounding mountains. There may occur a light snowfall, but it does not normally result in serious issues, especially towards the end of the month. The first two weeks reduce the size of crowds gradually, and of course, the trail becomes quieter.
In the weather by season cycle of the Everest Base Camp, November is late autumn. It is an excellent option amongst trekkers wishing to see clear skies and fewer people, plus those who can manage cold nights.
December – Early Winter with clear skies
The winter season in the Everest region starts in December. The Everest Base Camp Weather by Month pattern. December is cold and dry, and has beautiful, clear views.
The temperatures in the Base Camp during the day are normally between minus five and zero degrees Celsius. By the end of the month, nights may go down to minus fifteen or even down to minus twenty degrees. The lower ones are cool in the daytime and extremely chilly at night.
It is normally sunny and clear, particularly during the first half of December. Light snowfall can be experienced in the high places, but heavy snow is not as frequent as in January. There are also quiet and peaceful trails since not many trekkers come there. Not all high tea houses are open throughout the winter, hence you need to plan what to visit.
Early winter in the Everest Base Camp weather by season cycle is in the month of December. It is also a good season when trekkers like peaceful walks along well-maintained trails and clear scenery, and are prepared for cold weather.
Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek & Final Tips
The best time to make your Everest Base Camp trek is based on what you would appreciate most: weather, views, the number of people at the time, or you would want a little bit of space to yourself. Regarding weather conditions in the Everest Base Camp by the season, spring (March- May) and the fall (September-November) are usually thought to be the best seasons.
These seasons are also characterized by moderate weather, low rainfall, and stable weather, thus making your trekking experience safer and enjoyable. During these seasons, April and October are the months when most trekkers aim to go, as they are ideal months with almost perfect weather.
• Spring (Mar-May): Temperatures are climbing, and the weather is mostly dry. You’ll enjoy blooming rhododendrons and clear mountain vistas, especially in March and April. This is a great time to go if you want lively trails with many fellow trekkers and climbers around. Just remember that late May starts getting a bit cloudy – aim for earlier in spring if possible to avoid pre-monsoon haze.
• Summer/Monsoon (Jun-Aug): These months are not typical for trekking due to heavy rain, clouds, and leeches. However, if you’re an experienced trekker seeking adventure and don’t mind getting wet, you’ll find lush landscapes and extremely quiet trails.
You must be flexible with plans (flights) and okay with potentially limited views. Many would say the monsoon is the “worst” time for the EBC trek, but it can reward those who embrace the challenge.
• Autumn (Sep-Nov): Often crowned the best overall season. From late September through early November, you have the best chances of clear weather and amazing scenery. Crowds are highest in October, so consider late November or late September for slightly fewer people. Autumn treks are reliable – you’re very likely to reach Base Camp without any weather holdups.
• Winter (Dec-Feb): A trek in winter is doable for well-prepared adventurers. You’ll battle extreme cold and possibly snowed-in trails, but you’ll also enjoy unparalleled peace and magnificent clear skies (on stable weather days). Early December and late February are “shoulder” winter periods that are a bit more forgiving. Deep January is for the truly bold (or those with prior high-altitude winter experience).
Final Tips for Trekkers Planning by Weather:
• Pack for the Conditions: Always tailor your gear to the coldest expected temperature of your trek. In spring and autumn, bring layers so you can adjust from warm days to chilly nights (thermal base layers, fleece, and a down jacket for evenings).
In winter, bring heavy-duty gear (expedition down jacket, extra insulation, and perhaps double boots or foot warmers). In monsoon, focus on waterproofing – a quality rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and quick-dry clothing are essential, plus waterproof covers for your backpack.
• Stay Flexible: Weather in the mountains can change quickly, even in the best seasons. Build a buffer day or two into your itinerary for unforeseen delays (for example, flight cancellations to/from Lukla, or a day of rest if someone in your party feels unwell due to weather or altitude). If you have extra days, you can always explore side trips (like visiting Imja Tse base or a monastery) or just relax and enjoy a village.
• Acclimatize Properly Regardless of Season: Good weather might make you feel strong, but altitude is a constant challenge. Schedule acclimatization days (commonly one in Namche and one in Dingboche) and listen to your body. Cold or heat doesn’t directly cause altitude sickness, but they can weaken you, so take care of your health in extreme temperatures.
• Hydration and Nutrition: In dry seasons, the air can dehydrate you quickly, and in hot seasons you’ll sweat a lot – so drink plenty of water (aim for 3-4 liters per day). In cold weather, it’s easy to drink less because you don’t feel as thirsty, but you must consciously hydrate.
Also, eat well. Your body uses more energy in cold weather to stay warm, and in all seasons, you burn a ton of calories hiking. Enjoy those carbs at teahouses – dal bhat power 24 hours!
• Protect Yourself from the Sun: No matter the month, at high altitude, the UV radiation is intense, especially with snow reflection or when skies are clear. Wear a high SPF sunscreen, UV-blocking sunglasses (snow blindness is a risk on bright days, particularly if snow is on the ground), and a sun hat or buff. This is important even in winter or when it’s chilly – you can get a severe sunburn on a cold, sunny day without realizing it.
• Check Weather Forecasts and Local Advice: Before and during your trek, stay informed. In Kathmandu (or online), you can get a forecast for Everest Base Camp or Namche Bazaar, which gives a rough idea of conditions ahead.
Along the route, talk to lodge owners, guides, or park rangers about what weather to expect. They might know, for example, that a storm is coming in a couple of days. This can help you decide whether to push on, wait it out, or turn around a day early if necessary.
• Enjoy Each Moment: Lastly, keep in mind that all kinds of weather contribute to the adventure. And when it rains, or a sudden snow comes, don’t get discouraged, some of the best stories are written when you stand up against the elements. When you get stuck in a lodge waiting out the weather, then use it as a chance to get to know the other trekkers, learn more about Sherpa culture among local people, or just have a rest.
• If you have a bright sunny day, soak in every view and take lots of photos. If it’s freezing cold at Base Camp in the pre-dawn, remember that not everyone gets to see Everest’s summit glowing at sunrise with their own eyes – a little frostbite risk in your fingers while fidgeting with the camera is a small price for that once-in-a-lifetime sight!
Conclusion
Planning your trek around the Everest Base Camp weather by month will greatly enhance your experience, but with the right preparation and mindset, any month can be trekked. Most trekkers choose spring or autumn for good reason – these seasons maximize your chances of pleasant days and safe journeys.
If you go in the off-season (winter or monsoon), you trade ideal weather for solitude and a different kind of challenge. Both paths have their rewards. Finally, whether you are trekking under sunny blue skies or stormy clouds, you will be walking in one of the most beautiful spots on the planet. Join the adventure, appreciate the environment and local communities, and enjoy happy trekking in 2026.
