Thousands of tourists mostly visit Nepal every month and most of them are here to trek. Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most famous trekking destinations here. Mount Everest is definitely the reason behind it.
Getting to the footstep of Mount Everest is a lifetime achievement. Well, journey to the base camp is tougher than you might think.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is possible throughout the year. Every season has their unique appeal and adventure to offer to the trekker.
The best season to trek Everest Base Camp is during autumn and spring. However, October is super pleasant for trekking to a lot of destinations in Nepal.
May marks the end of spring and the begin of summer also known as rainy season or monsoon season. The month of May is in between two seasons. It is among the best time of the year to summit the mountain. So there is a great chance meet many sumiteers.
The weather and climate is comparatively fair than summer. The skies are mostly clear and the morning and evening rewards you with breathtaking sunrise and sunsets view of the Himalayan vista.
With the increase in temperature, be prepared for summer bugs. Sprays and oinmnets will get the job done.
Your experience in Everest Base Camp Trek in May will surely be memorable and a pleasant trekking experience that you will not forget in your lifetime. Be sure to get some training and book your seats early so that you don’t get left out.
Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek in May
The main highlights of the Everest Base Camp trek can be listed below
- Trekking to the footstep of the world’s highest Mount Everest (5380 m)
- Short adventurous mountain flight to and from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Clear blue skies most of the times with beautiful sunrise and sunset view of the Himalayan vista
- Namche Bazaar (3450m), gateway to Mount Everest and world’s highest trade market
- Tengboche Monastery (3867m)
- Gorak Shep (5164m)
- The highest point of the trek, Kala Patthar (5545m)
- View of the majestic mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Cho Oyu, and other surrounding mountain peaks.
- Khumbu Glacier, largest glacier of Nepal.
- Experience a unique culture, tradition, settlement and hospitality of Sherpa or Tibetan culture.
Weather Conditions at Everest Base Camp Trek in May
The weather condition in the month of May at Everest Base Camp ranges from mild to moderate. The days might get super hot as the summer month is at the doorstep. The mornings and nights are cool and sometimes chilly up in the mountains.
The skies are clear in early May but you might experience a downpour or two at the end of May as the rainy season comes right around the end of the May. The monsoon clouds are sometimes early and get around May sometimes. So it is best to check the weather forecast before booking your seats.
As the humidity is higher and the outdoors are pretty dry in early May, you will get the best clear view of blue sky and majestic mountains up on the horizon. The temperature will certainly increase during the daytime and you will need summer clothes while trekking. Be sure to pack your backpack according to the list we have mentioned below.
The temperature at the Everest Base Camp remains cold and chilly even in the summertime as you are close the mountain. The lower region will have a bit harsh temperature and weather due to the possibility of rainfall at the end part of May.
The days are hotter in the lower region and range from 20 to 30 degrees. The morning and nighttime will have a bit chilly feeling but the temperature will not go below freezing. It will remain around 10 to 15 degrees up in the mountains.
Recommended Everest Region Treks for May
If you prefer the winters more than the humid and hot summer and would love to explore the Everest region, there are some popular trekking routes to the popular Everest region.
12 days Everest Base Camp/Kalapatthar Trek
Reaching the Everest Base Camp and then towards Kala Patthar is one of the most popular treks to undertake in Nepal. This 12 days Everest Base Camp/Kala Patthar Trek package is the most dominant trekking package.
The month of April and May attracts a lot of trekkers to the Everest region. The clear skies and the awesome mountain view keeps pushing you forward towards reaching your goal towards the world’s highest mountain.
You can get the chance to witness the world’s highest mountains like Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori and many others without any obstruction.
May is the end of summer so you might still get some rainfall in the lower hilly region. It is still spring but the sun is pretty hot in the daytime.
You will experience a lot of wildlife. And also get to explore different types of flowers and plants. Exploring the amazing landscape and experiencing the diverse culture, tradition, lifestyle, settlement, gesture and hospitality will make your journey memorable.
The trekking journey will after a short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. You will then pass through different rest stops: Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Trek to Gorak Shep and then to the Everest Base Camp.
Highlights of the Trek
- Adventurous scenic flight to and from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Trekking towards the highest point of the trekking, Kala Patthar (5545m)
- Breathtaking up-close panoramic view of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest and other series of mountain range from Kala Patthar
- Traditional and cultural life of the Sherpa people and their lifestyle
- Visiting Tengboche Monastery
- Trekking to Gorak Shep (5160m)
- View of the Khumbu Glacier
Everest Panorama Trek (12 Days)
If you strict on schedule but still want to experience the mountain trek, the Everest Panorama Trek is a great package you would want to book. The up-close 360-degree panoramic view of the majestic Mount Everest along with Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and other surrounding mountain peaks is the main highlight of this trek.
You will be witnessing the diverse Tibetan culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Sherpa people in the Khumbu region. Visiting numerous monasteries and most importantly Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Everest region, is another highlight of this trek.
You can also get a glimpse of the wildlife such as Himalayan Thar, musk deer, pikka (mouse hare) weasel, ghoral, jackal, long-tailed bird, other exotic wild animals in the region.
The Everest Panorama Trek starts from a short adventurous flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, after which you will trek on foot along the Dudh Koshi river, Namche Bazaar, and end at Tengboche village. You will be getting an amazing panoramic view of the Everest along with the other mountain peaks on this luxurious trekking.
Highlights of the Trek
- Short scenic flight to and from Kathmandu to Lukla.
- Short trekking route
- Breathtaking up-close panoramic view of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest along with Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Changtse and Mt. Ama Dablam
- Witness the diverse Tibetan lifestyle, culture, and tradition of the Sherpa people
- Namche Bazaar (3438m)
- Crossing of Dudh Koshi River
- Tengboche Monastery, largest monastey of the Everest Region
Shivalaya–Gokyo-Chola Pass–EBC Trekking
The classic route that has been popular since the first successful climbers. The Shivalaya–Gokyo-Chola Pass–EBC Trekking route is often called the classic trekking route.
This route is quite long so be sure to work with your schedule. Since you will be spending a lot of time at the mountains, allow the socio-cultural lifestyle touch you. You will love the hospitality.
The trek starts from Kathmandu with an eight-hour long scenic bus ride to Shivalaya (1700m). You will then trek from Shivalaya to Bhandar, through Sangba Danda and Deurali Pass, Likhu Khola, Kinja, Junbesi, Nunthala, KhariKhola, Surkhe, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, Gokyo Ri, Thagnak, Dzongla, Lobuche and finally reach Everest Base Camp.
From here you will head back to Gorak Shep, Kala Patthar, and then return taking the same route to Namche Bazaar and head towards Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu.
Highlights of the Trek
- Scenic bus ride to Shivalaya with changing landscapes
- Spectacular view of the mountain peaks like Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Changtse and Mt. Ama Dablam
- Traditional and cultural lifestyle of the Sherpas in the Everest region
- Namche Bazaar (3438m)
- Dudh Koshi river and valley
- Visiting the famous Tengboche Monastery
- Trekking to Gokyo Ri (5463m)
- Crossing of Cho La pass (5420m)
- Panoramic view of the mountain vista from Kalapathar (5400m)
Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak
Reaching the Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak takes extra effort and preparation for climbing mountains. This trek is renowned for reaching the Everest Base Camp with some exciting, adventurous mountain climbing to the Island Peak at the altitude of 6189m.
The trekking can be physically demanding as you will have to climb the peak. But it is worth all the effort you put into.
Some of the majestic mountain peaks visible from the Island peak are Mt. Ama Dablam, Mr. Lhotse, Mt. Mera Peak, and Mt. Everest.
The trekking journey starts after a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. You will then walk through rest stops, including Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pheriche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep and trek to Everest Base Camp. Further, you will trek the Kala Patthar, Dingboche, Chukkung and finally trek to Island Peak. From here you will prepare to return the same way to Chukkung, Tengboche, Namche Bazaar, and Lukla.
The time of April and May is best for mountain climbing. So, it is the best option for those who want to trek and have the mountain climbing experience in Nepal.
Highlights of the Trek
- Mountain climbing of the Island Peak (6189m)
- Majestic up-close and eye-level view of the mountain peaks from the Island peak such as Mt. Ama Dablam, Mr. Lhotse, Mt. Mera Peak, and Mt. Everest.
- Stepping your foot at the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mt. Everest
- Tengboche Monastery
- Climbing Gorak Shep and Kalapatthar
- Namche Bazaar, the highest marketplace in the world
- Witness traditional and cultural lifestyle of the Sherpas
Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in May
Everest Base Camp in May is quite fun as this is the last month of the spring. You will get to experience the natural beauty in the hilly area. The flowers bloom and all the trees come alive.
The trekking trails might get muddy and slippery if it rains. The weather can drastically change up in the Himalayas so be prepared with proper gear.
Here are some tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in May.
Hire a Professional Guide
Trekking in May means, peak time for a lot of trekkers. During this time, all the tea houses and guest houses are pre-booked. Pre-booking could help you find the best tea houses in the area with good rooms.
You will also need to start your trek early. A professional and experience guide will provide you with this information along with other vital information.
An experienced guide will also have better understanding of the region’s rules and regulations and will help you communicate well with the locals.
Get a porter
No matter what the season is, you should always be prepared and pack wisely. You cannot carry less and regret later. Do not compromise on the gear.
You are not advised to carry your own backpack. As you go higher, the air there is thinner even your own body weight feels burdensome. So, carrying your own backpack and trekking could make your trip exhausting.
Train Yourself
Trekking in the month of May should be quite plesant. So you will not require advanced training. However, you need to be trained to trek in Nepal.
If you aren’t physically fit, you will have a hard time ascending towards the higher altitude region and you wouldn’t want to return back.
Longer Daylight
Most of the trekking in the mountains starts early in the morning and ends at daytime. This is due to the less daylight and windy situation up in the mountainous area.
Though the days are longer in the month of May, we suggest you start your trekking early so that you have plenty of time afterwards. Also, the days are pretty hot in May so it is best if you reach your destination early.
Advance Booking
The best season to trek Everest Base Camp is in autumn and spring seasons. May is spring, peak time for Everest Base Camp trek. Advance booking will get rid of a lot of future hassles.
Hydrate well and take care your body
Hydrating your body while trekking is the key. If you ignore staying hydrated, you might face several health complications such as high altitude sickness.
Maintain a slow yet steady pace. Proper rest at the acclimatization stops is one of the most important parts of your trekking. Do not avoid it.
What to Wear for Everest Base Camp Trek in May?
As the month May marks the end of the spring season and the begin of rainy season (monsoon and summer), it is wise not to take the heavy winter clothing with you. You can be prepared with some warm woolen clothes just in case.
Here’s a list of things that you might require for Everest Base Camp trek in May:
Head and Hands
- Big sun hat
- Polarized UV sunglasses
- Scarf or bandana
- Waterproof and windproof gloves (optional)
Jackets
- Windstopper jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Down jacket (optional)
- Synthetic insulated jacket
Clothing:
- Thermal innerwear
- Convertible hiking pants
- Hiking undergarments
- Moisture-wicking tops
- Loose comfortable T-shirt
- Long sleeve shirt
Footwear
- Normal socks
- Warm hiking socks
- Hiking boots
- Hiking sandals
- Hiking gaiters (optional)
Equipment List
Below is the list of trekking packing list regarding the equipment that you may need while trekking in the month of May. These lists aren’t compulsory and you can make your own personal list. Only pack things that you need and travel light but do not miss out anything important.
The equipment is heavy and you might have a hard time carrying them from your country. It is best if you buy/rent them in Kathmandu. There are a lot of places around Thamel where you can get it.
Toiletries and Personal Hygiene
- Moisturizer
- Antibacterial sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Sunscreen cream
- Shampoo and conditioners
- Tissue or toilet paper
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Quick drying towel
- Feminine hygiene products
Accessories
- Trekking Poles
- Sleeping bag (if you feel uneasy sleeping in the local bed)
- Headlamps and extra batteries
- Insulated water bottle
- Extra plastic bags (to store your garbage along the way and to keep your things dry)
- Waist bag for small items
- First aid kit
Additional Recommended Items
- Binoculars (optional)
- DSLR Camera
- Extra batteries for your DSLR Camera
- Maps of route and mountains
- Personal documents
- Polar blanket and pillowcase (for personal hygienic stay)
FAQS
How is the weather at Everest Base Camp in May?
The weather in Everest Base Camp remains moderate in the month of May. Since it is the end of the spring and beginning of the rainy season or the summertime, you can expect some downpour in the lower region. The upper region will have perfect weather in the morning and evenings. It might get a bit hotter at daytime along the trekking trail. Overall, the weather is quite fine then the summer season in the month of May. Do take extra precaution and get updates of the weather forecast in the year you are trekking.
How difficult is to trek EBC in May?
The month of May is still at the end of the spring season. So it is trekking season in Everest Base Camp. Regarding the question of how difficult is it to trek Everest Base Camp, you might have to train your body to walk at least 5 to 7 hours per day uphill and downhill.
Above 3,000 meters the air gets thinner so you need acclimatize well.
