Ask most travelers about the best time to trek in Nepal, and they will say “October” or “November.” And they are not wrong. Those months are spectacular.
But ask a seasoned trekker or a local guide for their secret favorite month, and many will whisper: December.
December is the quiet after the storm. The autumn crowds have gone home. The skies are still impossibly blue. And the mountains wear a fresh dusting of snow like a winter coat. Yes, it is cold. But for those willing to pack an extra layer, December offers something precious in modern travel: solitude.
Here is everything you need to know about trekking in Nepal in December—where to go, what to pack, and why this “off-season” month might be the best-kept secret in the Himalayas.
Why Trek in Nepal in December?
December marks the beginning of winter in Nepal, but don’t let that scare you off. The month delivers conditions that, for many trekkers, are actually preferable to the peak seasons.
The Pros: What Makes December Special
| Factor | December Reality |
|---|---|
| Crowds | Trail traffic drops 35-40% compared to October/November. You will often have viewpoints entirely to yourself . |
| Visibility | Clear skies prevail 28-30 days of the month. Visibility reaches 80-150 kilometers on clear mornings . |
| Teahouse Availability | Walk-ins are accepted everywhere. No fighting for the best room or waiting for dinner . |
| Costs | Flights, accommodations, and tours often come at discounted rates. Budget travelers find excellent deals . |
| Wildlife Viewing | Dry conditions in Chitwan and Bardia make animal sightings more frequent as wildlife gathers near water sources . |
The Cons: What You Need to Prepare For
- Cold Temperatures: At high altitudes, nights can drop to -15°C to -20°C. You need proper gear .
- Shorter Days: Only about 10.5 hours of daylight. Start trekking by 6:30-7:00 AM to complete stages before dark .
- Snow Risk: High passes above 4,500-5,000 meters can become impassable. Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit often closes from December onward .
- Lukla Flight Delays: Morning fog can delay flights to/from Lukla 3-4 days per month. Always build in buffer days .
Temperature Guide: What to Expect at Different Altitudes
December temperatures vary dramatically depending on where you are. Here is your cheat sheet :
| Location | Altitude | Daytime Temp | Nighttime Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 1,400m | 16-20°C (60-68°F) | 3-7°C (37-45°F) | Mild days, chilly mornings. Great for sightseeing. |
| Pokhara | 800m | 18-22°C (64-72°F) | 7-10°C (45-50°F) | Sunny, pleasant. Perfect base for Annapurna treks. |
| Lower Trekking (Poon Hill) | 2,000-3,200m | 5-12°C (41-54°F) | -2 to -5°C (28-23°F) | Cold nights, clear days. Snow possible at higher elevations. |
| Mid-Altitude (ABC, Langtang) | 3,500-4,200m | 0-8°C (32-46°F) | -5 to -15°C (23-5°F) | Snow on trails. Microspikes recommended. |
| High Altitude (EBC, Gorak Shep) | 4,500-5,500m | -5 to -10°C (23-14°F) | -15 to -20°C (5 to -4°F) | Extreme cold. Biting winds. For experienced trekkers only. |
Best Treks in Nepal for December
Not all treks are equal in December. The key is choosing routes that stay below 4,500 meters or are well-protected from the harshest winter conditions.
1. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (4-5 days) – Best for Beginners
If you only have a week and want guaranteed stunning views without extreme cold, this is your trek.
Poon Hill stands at 3,210 meters, and the sunrise view from its summit is legendary. The rhododendron forests between Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani hold frost crystals on clear December mornings, creating a magical atmosphere you won’t see during the busy seasons .
- Max Elevation: 3,210 meters
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- December Conditions: No snow below 3,000 meters. Temperatures at Ghorepani drop to -2°C at night.
- Why December: Fewer crowds mean you can enjoy the sunrise viewpoint with space to breathe.
2. Mardi Himal Trek (5-7 days) – Best Hidden Gem
Photo by Arun Ghimire on Unsplash
This is Nepal’s rising star, and December turns it into a fairy-tale escape. You walk a knife-edge ridge to 4,500 meters with Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) so close you could almost touch it .
What makes Mardi Himal special in December is the unobstructed close-range view of Machhapuchhre from a perspective unavailable on any other trek. The upper ridge offers a 270-degree panorama of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Dhaulagiri .
- Max Elevation: 4,500 meters
- Difficulty: Moderate
- December Conditions: Light snow between High Camp and Upper Viewpoint. Daytime 1-14°C, nights as low as -8°C.
- Why December: Only 15-30 trekkers per day on this route, compared to 150-300 on Poon Hill .
3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek (10-12 days) – Best Moderate Trek
Photo by Redmaz Pham on Unsplash
Standing in the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 meters, surrounded by 7,000-8,000-meter peaks, is life-changing any time of year. In December, it is magical.
The amphitheater of peaks—Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli—comes into full clarity without the afternoon cloud buildup common in October. Light snow dusts the trail above Deurali from mid-December onward, adding sparkle without blocking the path .
- Max Elevation: 4,130 meters
- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
- December Conditions: Days around -4°C, nights -10°C. Microspikes recommended above 3,800 meters.
- Pro Tip: Soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda on your way down. You will have earned it.
4. Langtang Valley Trek (7-10 days) – Best Wilderness Near Kathmandu
Langtang Valley Trek
Langtang Valley sits just 50 kilometers north of Kathmandu but feels worlds away. The trek to Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870 meters passes through Tamang villages, yak pastures, and forests of oak and rhododendron.
December brings crystal-clear views of Langtang Lirung and the surrounding peaks. The trail stays snow-free up to Kyanjin Gompa in early December, and teahouses remain open and welcoming .
- Max Elevation: 3,870 meters (or 4,984 meters if you climb Tserko Ri)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- December Conditions: Daytime 5-10°C, nights -5 to -10°C.
- Why December: The transition from subtropical forests to alpine meadows in just two days is dramatic and stunning in winter light.
5. Everest Panorama Trek (7-10 days) – Best Everest Experience Without the Extreme Cold
Want to see Everest without spending two weeks at -20°C? The Everest Panorama Trek tops out at Tengboche (3,860 meters), where you can sip tea with 360° views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
The route follows the classic EBC path to Namche Bazaar and then to Tengboche Monastery, where monks chanting at dusk creates a moment you will never forget .
- Max Elevation: 3,860 meters
- Difficulty: Moderate
- December Conditions: Nights around -5°C, manageable for most trekkers with proper gear.
- Why December: You get the Everest region experience without the extreme cold and risk of the full Base Camp trek.
Treks to Avoid in December (Or Approach with Extreme Caution)
Not all routes are wise in December. Here is where to think twice:
| Trek | Max Elevation | December Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Annapurna Circuit (Thorong La) | 5,416 meters | The high pass is often closed due to heavy snow from December to February . |
| Everest Base Camp (full trek) | 5,545 meters | Possible, but nights at Gorak Shep hit -20°C. Only for well-prepared, experienced trekkers . |
| Three Passes Trek (Everest region) | 5,500+ meters | Multiple high passes with avalanche and ice risk. Extreme cold. Not recommended . |
| Manaslu Circuit (Larkya La) | 5,106 meters | High pass prone to closure from heavy snowfall. Remote with limited support . |
| Upper Mustang | 3,800-4,000 meters | Extremely cold and windy. Many teahouses close for the season. |
What to Pack for December Trekking
This is not the time to travel light. Winter trekking demands proper gear. Here is your essential packing list:
Clothing (The Layering System)
- Base Layer: Thermal tops and bottoms (merino wool recommended)
- Mid Layer: Fleece jacket or lightweight down vest
- Outer Layer: Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants
- Heavy Insulation: Down jacket rated to -15°C or lower
- Trekking Pants: 2 pairs (one insulated for higher altitudes)
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots: Broken in, with good ankle support
- Wool trekking socks: 3-4 pairs
- Camp booties/sandals: For teahouse evenings
Accessories (Do Not Skimp Here)
- Microspikes or crampons: Essential for icy trails above 3,500 meters
- Trekking poles: With snow baskets
- Warm hat (beanie): Covers ears
- Balaclava or neck gaiter: For wind protection
- Liner gloves + insulated gloves/mittens
- Sunglasses: With UV protection (snow glare is intense)
Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping bag: Rated to -15°C or -20°C. Teahouse blankets are not enough
Other Essentials
- Headlamp with extra batteries (days are short)
- Water bottles with insulation (or a thermos for hot tea)
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm (snow reflection burns)
- Power bank (cold drains batteries faster)
- First-aid kit (including Diamox for altitude)
Practical Tips for December Trekking
1. Start Early, End Early
Sunset is around 5:00 PM. Aim to start trekking by 6:30-7:00 AM to complete your day’s walk before dark .
2. Build in Buffer Days
Lukla flights can be delayed by morning fog. Add at least one extra day in Kathmandu before and after your flight . For Annapurna treks, road conditions can also cause delays.
3. Book Teahouses in Advance (Sort Of)
While crowds are smaller, some higher-altitude teahouses may close for the season. Check ahead or travel with a guide who knows which lodges remain open .
4. Hire a Guide
Winter conditions demand local knowledge. A licensed guide can navigate snow-covered trails, manage acclimatization, and handle emergencies. For December treks, this is not an expense—it is an investment in safety .
5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Cold weather masks thirst. Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Eat carbohydrate-rich meals (dal bhat is your friend) to maintain energy and body heat.
6. Watch for Altitude Sickness
AMS risk begins above 2,500 meters. Ascend no more than 300-500 meters per day above this altitude. Know the symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath. Descend if symptoms worsen .
7. Carry Cash
Teahouses and permit checkpoints operate on cash only. ATMs exist in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Namche, and Lukla, but do not rely on them working .
Beyond Trekking: Other December Activities
If trekking is not your only goal, December offers other fantastic experiences:
- Wildlife Safari in Chitwan or Bardia: Dry weather means animals gather near water sources. Rhinos, deer, and even tigers are easier to spot .
- Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing: Clear, crisp days are perfect for exploring Durbar Squares, Swayambhunath, and Boudhanath without the crowds .
- Pokhara Relaxation: Sunny days, snow-capped Annapurna views from your guesthouse, and peaceful Phewa Lake. Paragliding and ziplining still operate .
- Christmas and New Year Celebrations: Kathmandu and Pokhara light up with festive decorations. Many trekking companies host celebration dinners .
Final Verdict: Is December Worth It?
Yes. But with caveats.
December trekking in Nepal is not for everyone. If you hate the cold, go in spring or autumn. If you want guaranteed high-pass crossings, do not come in winter.
But if you crave solitude, crystal-clear mountain views, and the magic of snow-dusted trails with almost no other trekkers in sight, December is your month. The trails are peaceful. The teahouses are cozy. And the mountains? They have never looked better.
Just pack for winter. Hire a guide. And leave your fear of cold at home.
Quick Reference: Best December Treks at a Glance
| Trek | Duration | Max Altitude | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghorepani Poon Hill | 4-5 days | 3,210m | Easy-Moderate | Beginners, families, photographers |
| Mardi Himal | 5-7 days | 4,500m | Moderate | Hidden gem seekers, close mountain views |
| Langtang Valley | 7-10 days | 3,870m | Moderate | Culture, wilderness, proximity to Kathmandu |
| Annapurna Base Camp | 10-12 days | 4,130m | Moderate-Strenuous | Classic sanctuary experience |
| Everest Panorama | 7-10 days | 3,860m | Moderate | Everest views without extreme cold |
*Planning a December trek? Start training 4-6 weeks ahead, book a licensed guide, and invest in quality gear. The mountains are waiting—and they are quieter than ever.*
Namaste, and happy winter trekking.
