Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Trekking in Nepal during December offers a unique blend of winter beauty, peaceful trails, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. As the final month of the year, December marks the transition from autumn to winter, bringing crisp mountain air, clear skies, and fewer crowds compared to peak trekking seasons. Whether you're an adventurer seeking solitude in the Himalayas or looking for a less commercialized trekking experience, December is an excellent time to explore Nepal's iconic trekking routes.
Clear Mountain Views – With the monsoon long gone and the dust settled December boasts some of the clearest skies of the year, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks. This is an ideal time for photographers and nature lovers who want to capture the Himalayan grandeur.
Less Crowded Trails – Popular trekking routes such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley see fewer trekkers in December. This means quieter trails, more availability in teahouses, and a more serene experience.
Chilly but Manageable Weather – While the temperatures drop, especially at higher elevations, trekking remains comfortable with proper gear. In the lower altitudes, daytime temperatures are mild, making daytime hiking enjoyable.
Budget-Friendly Travel – With fewer tourists in Nepal, flights, accommodations, and permits may be more budget-friendly compared to peak seasons. Teahouses and lodges are more accommodating, and you may even get discounts in some places.
Lower Altitudes (Below 3,000m) – Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C, making trekking comfortable. Nights can be cold, but not unbearable.
Mid-Altitude (3,000m - 4,500m) – Temperatures during the day can be around 5°C to 10°C, while nights drop to -5°C or lower.
Higher Altitudes (Above 4,500m) – Daytime temperatures can be below freezing, and nights can reach -15°C or colder, so proper winter gear is essential.
Overview:
The Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek in December offers a surreal experience with clear skies, stunning snow-covered landscapes, and fewer trekkers on the trail. While the temperatures drop significantly, the views of Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku remain crisp and breathtaking.
Weather and Challenges:
Daytime temperatures: -5°C to 5°C
Nighttime temperatures: -15°C to -25°C (at higher altitudes like Gorak Shep and Base Camp)
Expect clear blue skies but freezing mornings and nights.
Some teahouses might be closed, but major ones in Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep remain open.
Flights to Lukla are often delayed due to morning fog in Kathmandu.
Why Trek in December?
✅ Less crowded trails – enjoy the beauty of Everest in solitude.
✅ Best mountain views – winter air is crisp and clear.
✅ Unique winter landscapes – ice formations and snow-covered terrain add to the adventure.
Things to Consider:
Proper layering is essential to withstand extreme cold.
Carry microspikes for icy sections.
Expect shorter daylight hours, so start trekking early.
Overview:
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes you to the world's third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m), in Nepal's remote eastern region. This is one of Nepal’s least crowded yet most rewarding treks, perfect for those seeking wilderness, pristine nature, and cultural immersion.
Weather and Challenges:
Daytime temperatures: -5°C to 5°C
Nighttime temperatures: -20°C or lower at higher altitudes
Heavy snowfall may occur at Sele La Pass and Lhonak.
Fewer teahouses remain open, so planning food and accommodation in advance is crucial.
Why Trek in December?
✅ Peace and solitude – fewer trekkers compared to Everest and Annapurna.
✅ Incredible biodiversity – if lucky, you might spot snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, or red pandas.
✅ Authentic local experience – experience the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Rai and Limbu communities.
Things to Consider:
Porters or guides are highly recommended, as trails can be difficult in winter.
Carry extra food and fuel, as remote areas have limited facilities.
Be prepared for deep snow at high passes like Mirgin La (4,663m) and Sele La (4,480m).
Overview
The Manaslu Circuit Trek circles Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the world's eighth-highest peak. Known for its rich culture, remote trails, and diverse landscapes, this trek is an alternative to the crowded Annapurna Circuit. December makes this trek challenging yet rewarding, as snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland.
Weather and Challenges
Daytime temperatures: -2°C to 7°C
Nighttime temperatures: -15°C to -25°C at Larke Pass (5,106m)
Heavy snowfall at Larke La Pass makes crossing difficult.
Teahouses remain open in most villages, but facilities are basic.
Why Trek in December?
✅ Fewer trekkers – enjoy the trek in peace.
✅ Spectacular snow-covered landscapes – pristine glaciers and ice-capped mountains.
✅ Rich cultural experiences – visit Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Sama Gaon and Samdo.
Things to Consider:
Larke La Pass may be covered in deep snow, requiring crampons or microspikes.
Hiring an experienced guide is necessary to navigate winter conditions.
Proper acclimatization is crucial due to extreme cold and high altitude.
Everest Panorama Trek – A shorter trek with incredible Everest views, suitable for those who want a moderate trek without extreme altitude.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – Perfect for beginners, this trek offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Langtang Valley Trek – A less-crowded trek with diverse landscapes and stunning mountain scenery.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek – While higher sections can be cold, this trek remains accessible in December with rewarding views of Annapurna and Machapuchare.
Upper Mustang Trek – Since Mustang lies in the rain shadow, the region remains drier in winter and is a great off-the-beaten-path trek.
Pack Warm Clothing – Layering is key. A down jacket, thermals, gloves, and a good sleeping bag (rated for -15°C) are necessary.
Start Early – Days are shorter, so it's best to begin trekking early to reach your destination before nightfall.
Be Prepared for Snow – Higher-altitude trails may have snow, so microspikes or trekking poles can be helpful.
Check for Lodge Availability – Some high-altitude teahouses may close in winter, so plan your route accordingly.
Stay Hydrated & Acclimatize – Cold weather can mask dehydration, so drink plenty of fluids and take altitude sickness precautions.
Trekking in Nepal is an excellent adventure and non-adventure activities of Nepal. It is really the most demanding and popular activity of the world. Many tourists want to do a different kind of trek in Nepal. Being many more popular trekking trails, Trekking in Nepal is becoming more popular day by day. Normally Trekking in Nepal in October & Trekking in Nepal in March are the best times for any kind of trek in Nepal. Although Trekking in Nepal in December is also a popular time for trekking in Nepal. At that time weather is quite cold and quite difficult to do long days trek in Nepal but we have found many tourists are doing different types of treks in December.
Trekking in Nepal in December is also not a bad time to do a trek in Nepal but not a very perfect time like October. We Nepal Himalayas Trekking Travel Company have some fixed groups for trekking in Nepal in December. All tea houses are open in the mountains and will see many trekkers on the way of trekking trails in December too. Normally we operate such following trekking packages in Nepal. Such as
Tags: Trekking in Nepal, Trekking in Nepal in December, Trekking in Nepal in March, Trekking in Nepal in October
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