22nd Jan, 2025

Everest in January

- Magnificent Himalayan Treks

First of all, lets remind you again that trekking is not for kids. You need to be mentally prepared that you have to walk very long way. The roads wont be easier.

Avoid monsoon and winter. This is the offseason where the trekking lodges and teahouses will be closed.The everest peak weather or the temperature on Everest is very risky.

You wouldn't want to be trapped on a mid-way with sloppy and muddy trails around, would you?

However if you want to experience the quietness and the off-busier trails. Go for itThere are fewer flight delays since the weather is favorable for flying at this time of year.

The skies are clear and the snow is pristine both on the mountains and underneath. Additionally, flights can be less expensive now.

If you flip the other side,its extremely cold.

You might get the accommodations at a very cheaper price as there are less number of trekkers but we recommend you to not take the risk.

Since the trails will be different from those on your map or on signposts owing to snow closure, we advise you to go with a guide in January.

Additionally, if there is new snowfall overnight, it could be difficult to read old paths. In January, it is very important to have a guide who has expertise trekking in this area and during the cold.

Hence,Trekking in winter is very difficult as the Everest Base Camp weather is not easily adaptable.

Mount Everest Temperature in Winter

In winter (December to February), temperatures at Mount Everest's summit can decline around -40°C (-40°F) or even lower due to harsh winds and freezing conditions. At the base camp, temperatures range from -15°C to -25°C (5°F to -13°F).

Mount Everest Temperature in Summer

Strong winds and high altitude can cause temperatures at the summit of Mount Everest to dip to about -20°C (-4°F) or lower during the summer months of June through August. Temperatures in the base camp are milder, with ranges of 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F).

January Snowfall and How It Affects Your Trek

During winter you feel extremely cold. You might slightly find it raining with occasional snowfalls.

There might be delays in trek if there is heavy snowfall by a day.

Till then you can chill at teahouses or you can update your journal/blog if you have one. There are chances of heavy snowfall for a day and not more than that.

Please keep in mind that travelling with snows is not an easy task to do.

The trails wont be the same. The visibility won’t be clear and some of the routes will even be closed.

The weather at Everest Base Camp in January is questionable and if you are wondering how cold is it on Everest, the weather in Nepal in January is extremely cold, the winter trekking is not easy.

Just be mentally prepared for any change of plans incase if you are looking for Everest Region Trekking.

This is why its suggested to have an experienced guide with you for contingency days.

Explore Popular Trails In January 2025

Although you can undertake the EBC Trek in January, you can change things up and choose a another route if you think this would be too challenging for you or if you learn about it before you leave or when you get there (Namche is an excellent spot to obtain updates on the route issues).

For instance, you can opt to do the 7-day Everest Base Camp Trek, which starts in Lukla and travels to Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Monjo, and back to Lukla flights. Tengboche (3,956m) is the highest peak on this climb.

Along with other mountains like Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku, the scenery includes alpine woodland, the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers, the Tengboche Monastery, and of course Mount Everest.

The Gokyo Lake Trek could be a good option if you're looking for something lengthier. This ten-day hike takes you to the stunning Gokyo Lakes, which are actually six lakes in total!

The Ngozumpa glacier, one of the biggest in the region, is visible in addition to the stunning freshwater lakes at high elevations. Naturally visible are Mount Everest, Mount Cho Oyu, Mount Lhotse, and Mount Makalu, among many more.

Changes According to Weather Conditions

However, if you are determined to go to Everest Base Camp in January, be ready for weather-related adjustments.

As previously said, it is quite improbable (and bad) that it will snow continuously for days throughout your walk. However, it might snow for a day. You should be ready to remain where you are in this situation.

Please refrain from attempting to outsmart nature by going outside during a snowstorm. You might have to alter your plan if the snow is really deep. Once more, talk about this with the lodge owner and/or your guide.

They can probably give a call in advance to see if the suggested route is open.

You should listen carefully to what your guide or lodge owner has to say. Avoid going outside when there is a lot of snow. In May 2023, a porter perished in a snowstorm after becoming disoriented.

He regrettably returned to the teahouse the clients had used the night before as it started to snow, but he then ventured out into the storm once more in an attempt to return his group.

Pros and Drawbacks of January Trekking to EBC

Pros of January

If you are looking for clear skies with very open routes than January is definitely for you. Most of the times the trails are busies making you difficult to move upwards comfortably.

Not, this time.

In january, you will find very few trekkers moving uphill.

Also regarding the services , as there are just few trekkers the teahouses will provide you the best quality services at cheaper rates.You can also have conversation with the teahouse or lodge owner as they are not busy than other seasons.

Broadly speaking, January offers you the majestic and awe-inspiring views with clear skies and there are less chances of being delayed due to incremental weather.

Drawbacks in January

You might have some drawbacks on this January. As you know there are fewer trekkers around, you might have less interaction among people or is a drawback who likes to share stories at dinner time.

Since, its winter most of the lodges are closed. The owners migrate downhill the mountains and wait out the cold.

Regarding your food and accommodations, they are scarce and are less of options as the goods wont come frequently. However, the food served will be delicious.

The heavy snowfall may alter the regular routes so be mentally prepared for change of plans.

Take advice , recommendations of any other problems with the lodge owner as they are more experienced and familiar with winter .

Most important drawback is do not travel solo during this winter season. The winter is very cold and the primary concern is your safety.

You are simply not safe.

Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek in January

The temperature at top of Mt. Everest is not adaptable by the normal person. This is why,It is always advised to prepare before beginning the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Physical Fitness and Training

Before you travel to Nepal, get in shape. Get a gym membership, work out at home with weights, and go for a jog.

More essential, go on lengthy excursions or walks in your neighborhood, ideally with some hills.

However, the high altitude and many walking hours you will experience in the Himalayas, especially in the Everest Region not just in january but in any other month will not be prepared for by any amount of running or weightlifting.

Your physical fitness and training to adapt the Mount Everest Base camp weather is mandatory.

Altitude sickness and acclimation

At high elevations, acclimatization is always required. It is customary to spend two nights in Namche Bazaar upon arrival on the Everest Base Camp Trek in order to acclimate.

Being active during acclimatization is the greatest option because there is a lot to do in this area. We define "active" as walking for three, four, or more hours.

Another day of acclimatization is scheduled at Dingboche. If you are traveling with a guide or agency, these acclimatization days are scheduled within the regular trekking schedule for your own safety.

We cannot emphasize enough how crucial it is to take these days if you are traveling alone, even if you feel good and are generally in excellent physical condition.

Regardless of your level of endurance or fitness, you must follow the laws of nature since altitude sickness can be fatal unless you were born and raised at a high altitude.

Let us briefly remind you of altitude sickness, which is covered in depth on another page.

Pay attention if you have a headache.

You might not realize how serious it is. Dizziness, headache, nausea, exhaustion, and difficulty sleeping are examples of mild symptoms.

By acclimatizing, as suggested by EBC Trek itineraries, you can avoid or alleviate these symptoms.

You should immediately descend to a lower altitude if they worsen even after two nights in your current location. In the worst situation, mental confusion and trouble balancing and coordinating can lead to the development of High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

The mental uncertainty is the issue here; you could not realize how ill you are.

An additional justification for trekking with a porter or guide. HACE can worsen quite fast, and if not treated you may die.

Yes, this seems horrible.

However, in high altitudes like the Everest Region, it is a very real fact. Until they adjust to the lower oxygen levels in the air, almost everyone who arrives will experience some kind of headache. Some will grow into something more significant.

Furthermore, your age, level of fitness, or prior hiking experience are irrelevant.

Ways to Prevent Illnesses associated with Altitude

Be cautious about your health , do some research, hear stories and make sure you:

Stay well hydrated.
Eat properly, even if you're not hungry.
Avoid going too high without properly acclimating.
It's not a race, so don't go too quickly.
Returning your steps to a lower height is quite acceptable. This is not a character flaw.
Keep in mind that altitude can affect people of any age or degree of fitness.
Keep in mind that altitude can affect people of any age or degree of fitness.
Be mindful of your body, paying particular attention to any headaches.

Tips for Travel and Safety

Checking the Weather

National Geographic has developed a low-bandwidth, near-real-time website that makes it easy for climbers on Mount Everest to view the most latest weather information on mobile or smartphones.

This site allows climbers to readily access data from the Everest Weather Station Network. From Base Camp or higher, this functions. The information provided is for local time wind speed, temperature, humidity, and pressure.

It is mostly intended for people who are really on Everest (climbing expeditions). However,you may find additional material that is pertinent to your journey.

You can get a sense of what's going on at lower elevations by adjusting the setting to 4,000m.

Coping with Cold and Altitude

Regarding altitude, kindly consider the advise we gave above.

In particular, please make sure you take acclimatization days in accordance with the "regular" EBC Trek timetable, even if you are walking alone.

If you think you need to, take extra breaks, don't hesitate because your safety is the priority.

The journey to and from base camp is never a race.

Keep an eye out if you feel sick, particularly if you have a headache that gets worse, feel queasy, unsteady, or experience palpitations. The risk of altitude sickness is quite significant. So be prepared for change of plans.

When it comes to fighting with the cold, make sure you are dressed appropriately.

Many layers, waterproof boots, a heavy down jacket, waterproof overpants for deep snow or snowfall, and multiple pairs of socks.

Remember to wear appropriate gloves and a cap. Have an extra set of comparable clothes on hand in case you become wet.

Please be sure to change your underwear (or anything else that might be damp) when you get to the lodge if you notice that the exertion of the day's climb is causing you to perspire.

You don't want to wear wet clothes and get cold.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Services

Make sure that trekking is covered by your trip insurance. and includes hiking to 5,000 meters or higher.

Read the fine print at all times! In the event of an issue, helicopter rescues are available, but they won't arrive until you can demonstrate that you can pay them, such as by contacting your insurance provider.

Throughout the trail, there are a few health posts, but keep in mind that they might be closed during the winter.

Consult the proprietor of your lodge if you are unsure. Once more, if you do not have insurance, do not expect anything.

Locals cannot be expected to provide financial assistance to anyone in need when they witness thousands of individuals passing through their areas.

That being said, they will, of course, try their hardest to help you in an emergency.

Health Posts Along the Trail

For minor wounds, bruises, and illnesses, please keep your own first aid package on hand. Your guide ought to have one if you make your reservation through a respectable company.

The following health posts can be found on the trails for more serious issues:

The 15-bed Himalayan Sherpa Hospital in Phakding opened its doors in November 2022 and provides emergency and outpatient care to the local population.

Additional details are available here.

Volunteer doctors staff the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA), located in Pheriche, during the hectic spring and fall trekking seasons.

Since 1973, it has operated as a non-profit organization with the goal of lowering mountain casualties. Their primary responsibility is to keep people and tourists from dying from altitude-related causes.

You are welcome to attend their daily talk on issues relating to altitude at 3 p.m. Since it is a non-profit, any contribution is also greatly valued.

You may read more about it here:

Namche and Dingboche are the locations of the Mountain Medical Institute (MMI) laboratory.

Please be aware that during the winter, the Dingboche branch is closed.

The Namche clinic, which contains a basic lab, EKG, and ultrasound, is staffed by physicians who have received training in the special requirements of those who live and travel at high elevations.

Call: 985-2850021/ 981-3933179 / 984-1936205

Essential Clothing and Equipment

The equipment required for the EBC Trek is listed here. It is a simple, round-the-clock list. With proper gear and preparation you can easily trek towards Everest Base Camp.

A four-season sleeping bag, a heavy down jacket, waterproof boots and pants (for the snow), layered clothing and warmer innerwear than you might require in the spring and fall are all essentials in the winter.

Sleeping bag
Trekking boots (waterproof)
Trekking trousers (waterproof for winter and monsoon)
Thermals
Trekking tops
Jackets (down and fleece)
Warm socks
Gloves (thin insulating)
Warm cap
Trekking poles (even if you don’t usually hike with them, they are great in the winter to test the depth of snow and pin-point the path more easily)
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Moisturiser
Thermal flask
Water purifying tablets or straw
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Sun hat
Camera
Whistle
Medical kit (including extras of your essential medicines in case of delays)
Personal hygiene kit: toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, soap sponge, towels, toilet paper
Washing powder
Cramons
Notebook and pen
Phone charger and power pack

Getting Documentation and Permits

To trek to Everest Base Camp, you require two primary permits:

Kumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: Nrs 2,000 per person.

Obtainable in Lukla or Monjo. Not available in Kathmandu.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: Nrs 3,000 per person

Available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the Sagarmatha National Park gate entrance in Monjo.

Buying this permit in Monjo is more convenient.

A separate permit for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, costing Rs 3,000 per person, is required if you are trekking in from Jiri.

This can only be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board.

A copy of your passport is one of the required documents for trekking permits. Two passport-sized photos are also required for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit.

Only local cash is accepted as payment.

Important Rest Stops and Highlights on the way

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar in Solukhumbu region for acclimatization, chatting, and learning about Sir Edmund Hillary's services to local communities and the history of the Sherpas.

Even though this month marks the off-season, you might still have a glass of Guinness at the world's tallest Irish pub! A snooker table, decent music, a little of dancing possibly and reliable WiFi is also on offer.

Discover the recently opened Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Heritage Center at the Sagarmatha National Park Visitors Center, which opened on the 70th anniversary of the first Everest summit.

You may learn more about the prior attempts as well as Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's first successful summit here.

Tengboche

With Clear mountain views, a calm atmosphere, and amiable monks, serene trails,Tengboche is the tallest monastery in the area.

In addition to any particular occasions, religious activities known as pujas are held every day in the morning and evening. Guests are welcome to participate.

You are welcome to light butter lights for your loved ones at other times.

Naturally, you should also take some amazing pictures of the mountains from the monastery's environs. When shooting pictures, be considerate and always ask first.

It would be very appreciated if you could leave a small donation.

Lobuche

From Lobuche, a tiny community at 4,940 meters (16,210 feet), you can go on exploratory hikes to Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp.

It is located close to the Khumbu Glacier and serves as the final overnight halt for hikers en route to Everest Base Camp.

Being the last destination, it is a crowded little spot during the main season, especially in April when porters and Sherpas head to Base Camp to begin the climbing season.

Perhaps because there is no other option, most of the lodges here are fairly modest. There are some lodges that offer Internet and oxygen if needed.

Highlights are :

Sunrise or sunset from Kalapattar's summit with crystal clear visibility Kala Pattar, at 5,545 meters (18,192 feet), is the actual Everest viewpoint.
A visit to Everest Base Camp. You will have the site to yourself in January since there won't be any expeditions here!Following in the footsteps of great mountaineers who came before you.
the area's spiritual aura.The wonderful empty trails.
Mountains covered in snow at their finest.
The greatest lodging available at the most affordable costs.

Lodging and Arrangements

Lodges and Teahouses Over the Trek

In Nepal, trekking lodges are referred to as teahouses. They are often modest, family-owned businesses.

A basic twin-bedded accommodation with a shared bathroom is available higher up, while the latter portions of the walk provide one or two more cozy lodges.

And delicious, substantial meals!

Some of the lodges might close in the winter as families descend the mountain until April, when many hikers arrive.

In the event that your first option is unavailable, be ready to accept an alternative resort.

The menu might have fewer options. Some commodities might not be brought in during the winter months if there are fewer tourists because it is difficult to bring goods into the area.

In any case, we advise against eating meat or drinking alcohol while trekking. There will always be delicious Sherpa food accessible.

Although this can change from year to year, we are aware that it will be challenging if you plan to do the Everest Three Passes Trek or the Gokyo Chola Passes Trek since the teahouses in Thagnak and Dhonjila (the villages on each side of the Chola Pass) are closed.

Additionally, they are closed near the Renjola Pass in the town of Lungden. Once more, it is highly beneficial to ask the owner of the teahouse what is open on the trail ahead.

Availability of Food and Water

Any teahouse that is open in January will have a great deal of food. The menu, though, might not be as extensive as it is during peak hours.

The chief chef may be on leave or supplies may be difficult to obtain, as evidenced by the low number of trekkers arriving. You won't go hungry, though. As usual, there is a fee for the water. Never consume river or tap water!

Alternatively, purchase heated water from the teahouse or, if available, mix your own pills or straw with FRESH water. For boiled water, there will be a fee.

As attention shifts to conservation, bottled water is no longer available on the majority of Nepal's hiking routes.

Hire a Porter and Guide

Once you are in the Everest Region, you may typically hire a guide and/or porter if you decided not to trek through an organization.

Finding someone may be more difficult during the busiest time of year because so many hikers are passing through. Since many will have gone downhill for the winter, it may also be difficult to find a guide or porter in January.

Before you go, please finish your homework completely. Maybe discuss the porter situation with a few of the lodges in Namche, Phakding, or Lukla.

The Remarkable The winter season Experience at Everest Base Camp

Trekking on a winter season is a risk in itself. However some trekkers love to play the risky way.

Despite there are limited lodges and teahouses even than you will get the best hospitality in winterDefinitely, this is a unique experience and one you should record fully to show the folks back home.

If you have any questions on trekking to EBC in the winter, please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.

Get Prepared for the January Everest Base Camp Trek

The prior thing to any trekking is your mental preparation. Be prepared for Everest Base Camp Trek not just for winter but for every seasons that you are planning of.

For more information don't forget to contact us so that we can make your trip more memorable.

Suggestions for Trekking in January month

Sunscreen is mandatory even if it’s cold.
Guides and porters are mandatory for Everest Base Camp Trek. Take licensed experienced guides with you in not just January but for every season.
Be mentally prepared for change of plans as the regular trails can be closed and alternative routes should be taken. The trails will be changed in case of snowfall.
Always listen to your guide because they are experienced than you are. Don't push off your limits and be frustrated because things are not going your way.
Make sure your insurance will cover you, make sure you packed your essentials and make sure you can adapt cold so that you can enjoy the trek.

Alternatives to Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest View Trek

Are you interested in seeing Everest but lack the time or desire to travel to a higher altitude? No issue! An alternative route that you can take is the Tengboche Everest View Trek (3,956m/12,979ft).

You get to see Mount Everest, Mount Nuptse, Mount Lhotse, Mount Ama Dablam, and Thamserku on a seven-day trip that passes through the alpine wilderness, the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers, and the well-known Tengboche Monastery.

Gokyo Lake Trek

The 5,357-meter (17,575-foot) Gokyo Lake Trek is a different choice to the Everest Base Camp Trek.

You will visit Gokyo Lakes in Gokyo Valley during this 11-day adventure. Along with Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu, you will also have a view of Ngozumpa, Nepal's largest glacier.

Other treks you can do in January in Nepal

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the ideal option if you just have a week to spare! From Poon Hill (3,210m/10,531ft), you may witness a breathtaking dawn over the snow-covered mountain range (Annapurna to Lamjung Himal).

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

The trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,450m/14,599ft) can be completed in 10 days. The breathtaking Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu mountain range is seen.

If you are looking for the other treks in Nepal dp visit Treks in Nepal.

Conclusion

Despite of the challenging weather conditions like extreme cold temperatures, snowy landscapes you can move towards the Himalayan Peaks with the experienced guides.

You can enjoy the hot drinks or luckily may witness the snow leopards as the wildlife sightings are mesmerizing on the routes or enjoy the basic meals with immense hospitality as there are fewer crowds.

The sherpa culture in Everest will give you unique experience. You can enjoy the Lhosar Festival