February is now with us and it is one of my favorite months of trekking in Nepal. February marks the end of winter in Nepal and it also marks the start of the high season.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp can be done in February as well.
This might comes as a surprise to some, but Everest Base Camp Trek in February is still possible. Actually, when you think about hiking, you might not automatically think “winter”. As the colder months are not an especially popular time to explore on foot.
I particularly like to hike in February, because of cooler temperature and the ideal time for landscape photography.
Everyone knows Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most famous trekking destinations in the world. Travellers from the different corner of the world come to Nepal just to step in the base camp of Mt. Everest once by following the footstep of Sir Edmund Hillary.
Autumn and spring season both are best trekking season in Nepal but flooded with tourists.
Although the snow makes the route significantly challenging, the views afforded are phenomenal. The trail itself is quite an adventure.
I’ll assure you’re going to be incredibly busy having a great time and admiring the incredible winter wonderland of snow covered mountain peaks, lush valleys full of native flora, fauna, birds, and animals.
Weather Conditions of Everest Base Camp in February
February marks the end of the winter months in Nepal. Actually, during this time of the year, the days are quite beautiful and warm.
First of all, it’s important to note that the weather in Everest region is unpredictable and change fast. No matter what time of the year you visit, you can experience quickly changing periods of rain, cloud, sunshine, and wind.
During this month, temperatures might range from 4°C to -15°C. At night, particularly in the winter season, temperatures can drop a few degrees below zero.
Temperatures do vary depending on the altitude. Trekking routes go up and down valley and mountains. Lower elevations are milder and more humid and higher elevations can bring much colder nights and mornings.
Besides the temperature, the wind is also a key factor to consider while Everest Base Camp trekking. During this period, the wind speed fluctuates from 8 to 12 mph at the base camp.
Despite its extra challenges Everest Base Camp Trek in February can be fun.
Highlights along the Everest Camp Trek in February
Yes, it’s cold, but February has plenty of other good stuff going for it. During this month, along with the trail, the scenery is just stunning. I bet, you would be glad and thank yourself for taking an opportunity to fully soak in the constant amazing views of Himalayas.
Lukla
You’ve heard or not that the flight into Lukla Airport is one of the scariest but the most adventurous airports in the world. Lukla is a small town and has an airport with a single runway. From Lukla, you’ll begin your Everest Base Camp trek.
Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is also known as the gateway to the Everest region. It lies at an altitude of 3,440 m from the sea level. While trekking in the Everest region many trekkers rest here for altitude acclimatization. It is also main trading center and hub for the Khumbu region.
Tengboche Monastery
Tengboche Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 3,867 meters and also the largest Gompa in the Khumbu region. It is the leading Buddhist center where many pilgrims and travelers get a blessing from residing Rinpoche. From here, the view of Everest Base Camp, the summit of Kala Patthar and Mt. Everest is clearly visible.
Gorak Shep
Gorak Shep is probably the last trekking stop during the Everest Base Camp trek. During the 1950s, this place was used to be the original base camp for the climbers. It is located at 5,185 m, so you may not have a pleasant experience at this altitude. But all this will be a part of a fun and after arriving at Everest Base Camp worth the effort.
Kala Patthar
Kala Patthar is located right at the foot of Mt. Pumori (7,161 m) and above Gorakshep on the way to Everest Base Camp. Kala Patthar is famous among the trekkers as it is a most accessible point to view Mt. Everest. Besides, the view of Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Ama Dablam are also spectacular.
Other Recommended Treks in Everest Region
If you’re a fan of cold winter temperatures and want to explore the Everest region then here are few other popular trekking routes that can be connected with Everest Base Camp trek in February. The below trekking package connect different major places of Khumbu region with Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak
Everest Base Camp trek with Island Peak is a popular trek that combines Everest Base Camp trek with Island peak.
After successful ascent, Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp the route descend back to Dingboche and head towards the Imja Khola valley to the base of Island peak.
You will get close up view of some of the world’s highest mountain, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Ama Dablam. Also, you’ll get a chance to cross the rarely trekked Kongma La Pass (5,535 m) and visit Everest Base Camp.
Shivalaya to Everest Base Camp Trekking
The Shivalaya to Everest Base Camp trekking is considered to be the most authentic trek in the Everest region. One of the main reason is that it follows the same trails that the trekkers used in an early stage.
Instead of taking a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, this trek starts with 7-hour long bus ride to the town of Jiri where the trek begins. Throughout the trial, you’ll walk through small mountain villages and admire the stunning views of snowy peaks.
Along the trail, you’ll encounter the Sherpa people and experience their culture and traditions. Although, hiking from Jiri to Everest Base Camp is quite challenging, you’ll remember this trip for the rest of your life.
Everest Base Camp Cho-La Pass – Gokyo Trekking
Everest Base Camp Cho-La Pass – Gokyo Trekking is a famous combined trek of EBC with Gokyo lakes and Cho-La Pass.
This is an excellent trek that connects both Gokyo lakes and EBC with the high pass named called Cho La. This pass is physically demanding during the winter season so you might require special trekking gears.
This trek will reward you with the best two main viewpoints i.e. Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar. En-route is filled with the dramatic landscapes, towering snowy peaks, and beautiful glacier.
5 reason why Everest Base Camp Trek in February is best?
Empty trails
Imagine trekking through quiet and snow-covered trails and only to be rewarded with frosty waterfalls and stunning panoramic views.
Since Nepal in February isn’t at the top of the list for loads of backpackers, you’ll have many of the tourists’ hotspots practically to yourself.
Most of the trekkers complained that during the peak season the trekking route of Everest region is overcrowded. Hotels and lodges are often full. Sometimes you have to share your dormitory/room with strangers or sleep in a dining hall. But in winter the scenario is the opposite as you’ll encounter very few trekkers on the trail.
During this time of year, you’ll have the trail all to yourself.
Best views
Nepal is the country with one of the world’s most extraordinary landscape. The winter conditions can be stunningly beautiful. February has dry and pleasant weather conditions. The sky is often clear you’ll get the most beautiful panorama during this month.
During this time you’ll get a chance to explore new and breathtaking panoramic views, hidden wonders and much more. Venturing out into the winter wilderness, you’ll roll yourself through beautiful frozen forests.
It’s not even that cold
The temperature at lower altitudes during this time isn’t too cold. Trekking around the midday is total fun. Thanks to the mild temperatures, you’ll find that Everest Base Camp Trek in February pretty pleasant. There can be some snowfall and wind at higher elevations. Although the temperatures are low, it is not unbearable. On the trail, the tea houses provide a blanket which you can have with your sleeping bag for extra warmth.
Budget Friendlier
Do you like low budget traveling? To be honest, I love low budget traveling. Many travelers take budgeting the trip as a big challenge. But don’t worry, fortunately, the prices of everything drop by half in comparison to the summer season.
Cheaper in February can be especially:
- Booking the accommodation
- Booking the flight
No Bugs
One of the best things about trekking during this time of the year is not having to deal with mosquitoes and other insects. So, leave the bug spray at home.
It’s not only mosquitoes, but also the trail are free of leeches during this time of year. So trekking during this time means you don’t have to worry about insects that you would have to otherwise.
Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in February
Fewer hours of daylight
During this month, you will have shorter days. You need to be more careful while selecting your route. Remember to start early need to start trekking early in the morning so you reach your destination my mid-day.
Review your gear
Remember, no gear is fit for all expeditions. For example, there is a time when the snowshoes are better and there are times when traditional is better. So, think about that before your rent or buy any of your gear.
However, in winter also depending on the trek you’ll require different gear. If you’re trekking on high altitude or glacier then you’ll need crampons and solid hiking boots. Or if you’re trekking on low land then normal hiking boot are efficient.
Make sure to choose right gear according to different situations. Do enough research. (Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek)
Research the Weather and Be Prepared
Don’t neglect this part. Always be updated with the weather conditions. As severe storms, rainfall, and other weather changes can often develop quickly in the Himalayas. Checking the weather, early and often, is a wise during the cooler months of winter.
With proper planning and preparation, weathering a snowstorm or blizzard can be done more safely. If you fail to keep track of weather conditions then you might keep yourself at greater risk than you might imagine.
Hire a Professional Guide
If you’re traveling on an unknown trail then you need to seek local advice and hire a guide. An official guide will accompany you throughout the trail to discover this wonder of the world.
They’ve got a better idea of the local rules and regulations. They’ll help you to communicate well with locals and offers you to explore the local cultures and history in depth.
For your safety concern, you’re highly recommended to hire a professional guide. (Trekking Guide & Porter on Hire)
Stay Hydrated
Yes, all my dear friends you need to stay hydrated throughout the trail. I know it can be little difficult staying hydrated in cold weather. Water bottles freeze and you don’t feel like drinking too much but you have to. You need to bring insulated, non-insulated and plus a thermos.
Final Thoughts
Everest Base Camp Trek in February only adds to the adventure of it all, with rolling clouds of mist and possibility of snow. Reaching to the base camp added an achievement at this time of the year.
There’s nothing quite like exploring your favorite trails in the winter. Although it might be little chilly, you won’t regret it.
Similarly, you can choose our shorter trek to Everest Base Camp if time doesn’t permit you and also it is perfect for short vacation.
