What’s the Best Month to Trek Everest Base Camp?
If you’ve got Everest Base Camp on your bucket list, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is:
When’s the best time to go?
Having guided this trek half a dozen times, I can tell you: the right month can make all the difference between a stunning, smooth adventure, and a muddy, cloudy grind with fewer views and more frustrations.
Let’s walk through what to expect each season, the trade-offs you’ll want to consider, and what I personally recommend for 2026.
The Two Best Seasons for Everest Base Camp
There are two main trekking seasons in Nepal:
1. Pre-monsoon (Spring): Late March to Early May
Spring is one of the most popular times to trek EBC, and for good reason.
Weather: Clear skies early in the day, with increasing warmth and longer daylight hours.
Scenery: Blooming rhododendrons at lower altitudes, snow-capped peaks, and plenty of yaks on the trail.
Crowds: Moderate to high, especially in April.
My take:
April is excellent. It’s the sweet spot between cold and crowded. The views are incredible, and the trails are lively but not yet overrun. Expect warmer days, chilly nights, and a great energy on the mountain.
2. Post-monsoon (Autumn): Late September to Early November
Autumn is the most popular season overall, thanks to consistently clear skies and stable weather.
Weather: Crisp mornings, blue skies, and generally dry conditions.
Scenery: The Himalayas are razor-sharp in clarity after the monsoon clears the dust.
Crowds: Very high. October is peak season.
My take:
October is beautiful but busy. If you don’t mind lots of other trekkers and want postcard-perfect conditions, this is a great choice. Be prepared for more crowded teahouses and a few early mornings to beat the foot traffic.
What About Other Months?
Here’s what to expect if you’re thinking outside the peak seasons:
February to Early March
Pros: Very quiet trails, stunning snowy landscapes.
Cons: Extremely cold, especially at night. Some teahouses may still be closed.
Verdict: Only for experienced winter trekkers.
Late May to Early September
(Monsoon Season)
Pros: Fewer tourists, lush green valleys at lower elevations.
Cons: Heavy rain, clouds blocking mountain views, flight delays, leeches on the trail.
Verdict: Not recommended unless you’re going with a flexible schedule and don’t mind missing the views.
Late November to Mid-December
Pros: Quieter trails, crisp views.
Cons: Temperatures start to plummet, especially at Base Camp and above.
Verdict: Good for those who can handle the cold and want to avoid peak crowds.
So, What’s the Best Month to Trek EBC in 2026?
If I had to choose one month for most trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp, it would be:
April or October.
April gives you spring colours, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant energy without peak congestion.
October gives you picture-perfect skies and stability, if you can handle the crowds.
That said, your best month also depends on:
How flexible your schedule is
How well you cope with cold
Whether you’re a photographer chasing clear skies
Or someone who just wants the views and a strong support team
Planning Your Own Trek?
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Led by experienced UK-based guides and trusted Sherpa teams. Includes private Ramechhap transfers, 3 meals a day on the trail, and our complete altitude preparation system.