What the weather's like
December is usually dry, with clear mornings. The biggest change is the cold. One operator's guide gives about 5 to 10°C during the day and about -8 to -12°C at night in the Everest region, and it gets colder as you go higher. Days are also shorter, so it's best to start early and finish before dark.
Lower down, it's far more comfortable. Kathmandu and Pokhara are often pleasant in the daytime, although mornings can feel cold.
Best treks for December
| Trek | Highest point | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Ghorepani Poon Hill | 3,210 m | Lower altitude, with plenty of lodges |
| Mohare Danda | About 3,300 m | Quiet ridge with community lodges |
| Everest Panorama | About 3,860 m | Everest views without going as high |
| Langtang Valley | About 4,773 m (optional) | Good in early December, but cold at Kyanjin |
| Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m | Possible with care, but check for snow and avalanche risk |
What about Everest Base Camp?
It's possible, particularly in early December, and it's often a lot quieter than in autumn. Nights are very cold, and Gorak Shep is especially harsh. If you go, choose warm gear and a guide with winter experience, and leave extra days for delayed flights. See our season guide.
High passes and snow
Some routes can become difficult or impassable after snowfall, including high passes like Thorong La and Larkya La. Conditions change from year to year, and we didn't find a reliable list of closures. Ask your guide about the latest reports. Be ready to turn back, and keep a spare day or two.
For the Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit, sources generally advise going in early December if you go at all, and only with an experienced team.
Are lodges open?
Many lodges stay open on the most popular routes, particularly lower down. Some higher lodges may close for winter, and we couldn't find a current list. Ask your operator to confirm your specific stops before you set out, and don't assume that the next village will have a bed.
Early or late December?
The month changes as it goes on, and several guides advise going high only in the early weeks.
| Early December | Late December | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Cold at altitude | Usually colder |
| High routes | More realistic with a good team | Harder, with a greater risk of snow |
| Lower routes | Very pleasant | Still a good choice |
| Crowds | Quiet | Quiet on the trail, but holiday flights can be busy |
Daylight matters too. With fewer hours of light, a long walking day leaves little room for delays. A sensible plan means shorter days, an early start and an extra night where needed. If you've got a choice, keep your highest and hardest days for when the forecast looks settled, and don't feel you have to stick to a schedule that was written months earlier.
How we'd choose a December trek
- Staying under about 3,500 m: a low route such as Poon Hill or Mohare Danda is the easiest choice.
- Wanting Everest views: the Everest Panorama trek is lower than Base Camp, though nights are still cold.
- Wanting a big goal: Base Camp is best early in the month, with warm gear and spare days.
Pros and cons
| Good | Less good |
|---|---|
| Fewer trekkers | Cold nights, especially above 3,500 m |
| Often clear skies | Short daylight hours |
| Easier to find lodge rooms | Snow can close high passes |
| Comfortable walking at lower altitudes | Some higher lodges may be closed |
What to pack
- A warm sleeping bag suited to your route. Ask your operator about the temperature rating
- A warm down jacket, hat, gloves and thermal layers
- Good boots, and microspikes if your guide suggests them
- A headtorch with spare batteries
- Sun protection, because snow and thin air increase your exposure
- An insulated water bottle, because bottles can freeze
Staying safe
Altitude sickness doesn't go away because the trails are quieter, and cold can make it harder to spot. Stick to a sensible plan, drink plenty of water, and tell your guide if you feel unwell. Read our altitude sickness guide. The UK government lists hazards above 3,000 m year-round, including sudden weather changes, avalanches and altitude sickness.
Christmas and New Year
Holiday travel can make international flights busy and expensive, and flights within Nepal may fill up too. Lukla flights can be affected by fog and winter weather, so don't plan a tight return. Book early if your dates are fixed.
Common questions
Is December too cold for beginners?
Not on a low route like Poon Hill, as long as you pack properly. We wouldn't suggest a high pass as your first winter trek.
Will it snow?
Possibly, particularly at higher altitudes. Lower routes are usually clear, but snow can fall around Ghorepani, so check before you go.
Is December better than November?
November is usually warmer and more reliable for high routes. December is quieter. Choose based on how much cold you can accept.
Can I still see the mountains?
Often very well. Clear winter skies are one of the best reasons to come, although no one can promise them.
Next steps
Read our full season guide, see easier treks, or ask us what's possible on your dates.
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