The Everest Base Camp Trek is undeniably the first option for people who plan to do trekking in Nepal. It is so popular that there forms a literal line on the trekking trail on the way to the base camp during the peak season. But here on this blog, we are going to specifically talk about doing the Everest Base Camp Trek in February.
Although there are other months where people mostly prefer to do this trek, February is somewhat considered to be less active in comparison to months such as April or October. But it doesn't mean that the views in February will be any less beautiful compared to other months; on the contrary, they might actually be the best you will ever see.
Many have this misconception that trekking during the winter season is very challenging and next to impossible but that couldn’t be further away from the truth. Winter actually presents you with the most clear and unblemished views of the mountains if you are brave enough to trek to the heights. Although February is one of the coldest months, with the right steps, choosing February for the Everest Base Camp Trek can be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made!
With that being said, let's dive into what it will be like doing the Everest Base Camp Trek in February.
As one might expect, the temperature of the Everest Base Camp during the month of February is quite cold since it is still winter. But it is also the last month of winter before spring begins. The temperature overall will start to fluctuate throughout the month but as the end approaches, the temperature will gradually start to be warmer, especially in the lower part of the trek, while the higher altitudes remain cold.
The average daytime temperature can range from -5° to 5°C, while the nighttime temperature drops to -15° to -25°C. But the temperature definitely differs from location to location. For example, the daytime temperature at Lukla will be considerably warmer compared to the base camp. So, the higher you ascend, the colder it gets.
The weather in February is generally clear but one can never be fully assured that it will remain like that. The region has its own microclimate, and the weather changes within short distances are very normal. The best way to avoid bad weather is to actively check the weather forecast frequently from a reliable source. This will help you avoid unnecessary problems such as having to walk on the trail as it snows.
Trekking in February can be quite the thrilling experience. Being a highly popular destination, any other peak season months, the Everest Base Camp trekking trail sees a large number of trekkers, which sometimes can feel a bit suffocating for those who do not like crowds. There are many advantages to choosing February as the time for the trek. They are discussed below:
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that the views in the mountains will not be good during the winter season, which is not true at all. In fact, it is quite the opposite. Now, we can’t say the views and weather will be clear one hundred percent of the time, as it is very unpredictable in the mountains but what we can say for sure is that it is clear most of the time without a single fluff of cloud blocking the views. Take it from the guides who have decades of formidable experience when they say winter has some of the best mountain views and the Everest Base Camp Trek is no exception.
February is on the verge of welcoming spring, and the temperature will also start to mellow as the day goes by and the views become even clearer. There is something different about witnessing Mount Everest in its full glory when there is not a single cloud blocking the view.
The definite highlight of trekking in the month of February is the minimal crowd on the entire trail. February falls in winter, which is considered off-season in Nepal and the influx of tourists decreases significantly. Taking advantage of this situation will definitely be a good decision. The tranquility you get to experience during this time is going to be impossible to replicate in other seasons, especially during spring and autumn.
Not only will the trail be just by yourself the majority of the journey, but also staying at the tea house comes with the same sort of peace and quiet. This presents you with an amazing opportunity to interact with the local shop owners and get their undivided attention and even some perks like discounts here and there. And finding a fellow trekker along the way will truly be a highlight of the journey, along with stunning views no matter where you look.
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There won’t be many chances to see the entire landscape and mountains covered in the pristine white snow. If you choose any other season, you will not be able to witness the heaps of snow surrounding you and crunching beneath your feet as you walk on the trail. The mountains, such as Mount Everest, Lobuche, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc., will be standing tall covered in the white snow, making them look glorious. This is the experience exclusive only in winter and more specifically in February. If you want ice and snow, then choosing February is the best decision.
The winter season is considered a total off season in Nepal and is especially true when it comes to trekking to the mountains. The number of tourists coming to Nepal for treks drops by a considerable number, which makes many of the popular destinations somewhat of a ghost town—yes, even the worldwide popular Everest Base Camp. This means there are many trekking companies and tea houses in the mountains not getting many customers throughout the entire season. This also means many agencies will offer discounts on their packages, while many tea houses will also give discounts.
So, if you have free time and want affordable packages, February might just be the month for you. Along with great views, you can also get great deals. Especially if you’re looking for a Valentine’s getaway.
Trekking to the mountains in the winter means snow and cold, as one would expect. Given the elevation of the base camp, it stays cold throughout the year but winter is even colder compared to other times. So, if you cannot withstand colder temperatures, that will definitely go below the negative degree the higher you ascend, then the February or winter season might not be the appropriate time for you.
Walking in thick snow can be a possibility but with the right gear and equipment, you can have an easier trek. But choosing to trek in winter means you will encounter snow, so mentally preparing yourself will be a lot of help when you actually begin your trek. While rainfall is pretty rare during this time, you can never be too prepared for weather changes in the mountains. So make sure you have all you need during the trek to make your experience smooth.
This is something you need to be prepared for no matter which month you are going. It is not something that you get exclusively in February and it is the altitude sickness. The higher you ascend, the lower the levels of oxygen are, so acclimatization is a crucial step in trekking to the mountains.
When you are trekking to high elevations that exceed more than 2500 meters, you need to let your body adjust to the change in atmosphere or you can get altitude sickness. There are multitudes of symptoms of altitude sickness, but some common ones are headache, loss of appetite, and nausea. While there are medications you can take to avoid this, the best medication is acclimatization. Letting your body naturally adjust to the low oxygen level by staying at the same place an extra day and practicing walking high and sleeping low.
Prior to embarking on the adventurous journey of trekking to the Everest Base Camp, preparations should be made. Whether it is training your body for the challenging altitude and landscapes or gathering all the gear and equipment to keep you accommodated for the trek, it is a crucial step. Here is a brief explanation on how you can prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek in February.
The most efficient way of making sure you have all the things you need for the trek is to make a packing list. By making a checklist, you can avoid missing something important for the trek, especially in winter when even a small item can make a huge difference.
Even if spring is right around the corner, that does not mean that it still isn’t winter in February. It will be cold, and especially in the base camp, Gorakshep, and Kala Patthar, the temperature can drop as low as -20 °C. As the temperature indicates, you need to pack clothes that can withstand extreme cold. Not only that but you will also need additional gear such as sleeping bags, trekking poles, crampons, etc.
After packing the essentials, knowing how and where to use your gear is of great importance. From packing clothes on your backpack to wearing them, it can make a world of difference. Trekking during the cold of February, layering your clothes will prove to be the most effective way to keep yourself warm.
Before anything else, your safety should always come first. And there are a number of ways to make sure you are safe during the entire trek. From physical and mental training prior to the trek to having a good diet during the trek, all are of equal importance.
Make sure your physical health and mental health go hand in hand and learn to know when to take a step back if the trek is taking a toll on your mind and body. Following the rules of the national park, such as not continuing your trek after dusk, is fundamental. Hiring guides will keep you from losing your way, especially when the trail is covered with snow.
Hiring a registered trekking guide will make things a lot easier. Not only will you enjoy an informational trek but you will also not have to go through the hassle of not understanding the language, as the guide will actively help you. It has become mandatory to hire a trekking guide for trekking in Nepal as per the recent regulation set up by the government. It was done keeping the safety of tourists in mind.
You can also take a porter during the trek to make your trek easier and not carry all the heavy load by yourself. While it is not mandatory to hire a porter, they will certainly be a big help if you have a lot of personal belongings that you cannot carry yourself. They will also contribute to your safety. Porters charge anywhere between 25-30 USD per day, while guides typically charge 35-40 USD.
Trekking to the mountains will definitely take a lot out of not only your physical strength but also your mental strength. You should start to train for the trek at least one month prior to your actual trekking date. As it is even colder in February, train your body doing cardio-vascular exercises, which will help to enhance your stamina.
You also need to mentally prepare for the experience of trekking in February. The trails will have uphill paths, and an average walking hour ranges from 5-8 hours daily. Being mentally strong will help to tackle challenges in a smooth manner.
Because it is off-season, there won’t be many trekkers crowding the tea houses. In fact, they’ll most probably be empty and the chances of you being the only one staying are very high. Unlike during the peak season of spring and autumn, where you need to pre-book a room, that won’t be the case during February. You can just trek to the destination and take your pick on which tea house you want to stay at and go there. A few of the tea houses might be closed but that won’t be a problem.
And because there are little to no tourists during this time, you can get grade A services from the owner and maybe even some complimentary services. Although you will have to pay for amenities such as hot water (for drinking and showering), internet, laundry services, etc. But overall, you will get great accommodation services.
Getting permits to trek to the Everest Base Camp is something that is required for all 12 months, no exception. You will need a total of two permits for this trek and an additional one if you choose the old route. The permits required for the Everest Base Camp Trek are:
The main permits are the national park entry permit, as entering a protected area that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site is very important. The second permit is imposed by the locals and benefits the community.
Trekking to the Everest Base Camp in the month of February is not something many people choose but that does not mean it is impossible to do so. In fact, it can be the best time to trek to the base camp to see the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest. Many people have the wrong impression that winter means the trail to the Everest Base Camp will be completely inaccessible. But it is quite the opposite and you can even enjoy the benefits of deals and discounts as you walk through an uncrowded trail.
After you have successfully prepared to accommodate yourself to the colder temperatures with the right packing list of gear and equipment, the rest of the trek will be smooth sailing. Hiring a guide and porter will contribute to your safety and the overall experience. So, if you have any plans to trek to the base camp of the tallest peak on earth, then you can get in contact with us by email or WhatsApp at info@alpineramble.com or +977 9851175531.
