Everest base camp trek in monsoon the weather changes a lot and few people trek the Himalayas. The trek to Everest Base Camp is among the world’s most challenging and rewarding treks. Every year, thousands of trekkers go to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. While the trek is popular throughout the year, Some trekkers prefer to travel during the monsoon season, because they want less crowded along the trail, which runs from June to September.
In this article, we will explore what you can expect when trekking to the Everest Base Camp during the monsoon season and how to prepare for the journey.
Table of Contents
- Should you Trek to Everest Base Camp in Monsoon?
- Fewer Crowds
- Lush Scenery
- Experience Local Life
- Challenges to Trek Everest Base Camp in Monsoon
- Muddy Trails
- Cloud Cover
- Increased Humidity
- Altitude Sickness
- Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in Monsoon
- Plan Your Trekking Route
- Carry Proper Trekking Gear
- Stay Hydrated
- Take a Rest
- Check Weather Conditions
- Conclusion
Should you Trek to Everest Base Camp in Monsoon?
The monsoon season in Nepal runs from June to September. The country faces heavy rainfall, making trekking challenging. Weather in monsoon can become unpredictable, with clear days followed by sudden downpours. Trails can become muddy and slippery, and landslides are a possibility. But, despite the challenges, the monsoon season has its unique advantages.
Fewer Crowds
One of the most significant advantages of trekking during the monsoon season is that far fewer crowds are on the trail. Some people prefer to avoid trek during peak season. (but many people want to trek during the peak season because of the good weather) but the weather can change at any time in the Himalayas. If you are such a person, monsoon trekking can be your thing. It, of course, comes with some challenges. But, the trek can be much more peaceful and enjoyable trek without crowds, especially when you get to enjoy the serene nature all by yourself.
Lush Scenery
Another advantage of trekking during the monsoon season is the lush greenery that covers the hillsides. The rain brings new life to the landscape, with the hills covered in greenery, flowers blooming, and waterfalls down the hillsides.
The lush green forest is sure to take breaths of the trekkers during monsoon. The monsoon rain adds a whole lot of beauty to the forests. When the green hills are in the foreground of the snow-capped mountains, it blesses you with a stunning view.
The trails are also quieter this season, providing trekkers with a more peaceful and serene experience.
Experience Local Life
The monsoon season is an important time for farmers and the local community. The rains bring new growth, and farmers can be seen working in the fields, planting and harvesting their crops. Trekking during monsoon helps you to get a deeper insight into the local life and witness the rural communities. You may even participate in local festivals and celebrations this time of year.
The monsoon season also offers an opportunity to witness a unique aspect of the Sherpa culture. During this season, the Sherpas perform the annual Mani Rimdu Festival, which celebrates the victory of Buddhism over Bon, the pre-Buddhist religion of Tibet. The festival at Tengboche Monastery involves traditional mask dances, chanting, and prayers. It is an excellent opportunity for trekkers to witness and experience the Sherpa culture firsthand.
Challenges to Trek Everest Base Camp in Monsoon
Trekking to Everest Base Camp during monsoon season comes with its challenges. The trails can be slippery and muddy, a bit more difficult. The risk of landslides and rockfalls also increases during this time of year.
Muddy Trails
The rain can make the trails slippery and muddy, making navigating difficult. Be prepared with the proper gear, including waterproof hiking boots and rain gear. It’s also important to be aware of landslides and flash floods, which can be dangerous in some areas.
Cloud Cover
The best part about trekking to the Everest Base Camp or any other region in Nepal is the breathtaking views of the mountains. During monsoon season, reducing visibility. It can be difficult to see the surrounding mountains and landscapes. It can also make it challenging to identify the trail and follow the right path. Moreover, the clouds tend to obscure the views, but still, we see the mountains.
Increased Humidity
The humidity levels in the region can be high during the monsoon season. It can make the trek feel more demanding. The high humidity levels can cause dehydration and exhaustion, making it challenging to complete the trek.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is another risk that trekkers must be aware of, regardless of the season.
The humidity in the air makes it harder for the body to acclimatize to the higher altitudes. Take extra precautions, and acclimatize properly. Take it slow, allowing the body to adjust to higher altitudes. You should be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in Monsoon
Plan Your Trekking Route
Plan your trekking route before embarking on the journey. You need to plan the routes and check with the locals for updates on trail conditions. Do your research and choose a safe and appropriate route.
It is also better to hire local guides and porters. They can also help you guide through muddy and slippery trails. You can also learn about the local culture. And most importantly, they will safely take you to Everest Base Camp.
Carry Proper Trekking Gear
Trekking to Everest Base Camp during the monsoon season requires proper trekking gear. Carry waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking boots, and a good-quality backpack. Carry a rain cover for your backpack to protect your gear from getting wet. Here is the link to Nepal Trekking Gear.
Stay Hydrated
Monsoon weather is humid and hot, making it challenging to stay hydrated. Trekkers need to carry enough water or a water purifier to stay hydrated. Drinking fluids such as water and tea is essential to stay hydrated.
Take a Rest
The trekking trail can be slippery and muddy, which makes walking difficult. Trekkers need to rest and avoid walking on slippery trails to prevent accidents. It is also important to rest and acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.
Check Weather Conditions
Check the weather conditions before embarking on the journey. During the monsoon season, there may be heavy rainfall, which can make it challenging to trek. Trekkers need to check the weather conditions and plan their trekking. As usual, the weather changes a lot in the Himalayas.
Conclusion
Overall, the Everest Base Camp trek is an excellent adventure whether you do it during monsoon or any other season. Everest Base Camp Trek in monsoon has challenges and advantages, which might make for a memorable trek. It is more challenging than other seasons, and you should be ready for the challenges.
But considering the positive aspects like the Lush Nature, Fewer Crowds, and Better experience of local culture, it is undoubtedly an exciting trip of your lifetime. We recommend you trek to Everest Base Camp once in your lifetime. Welcome to Nepal and explore the Himalayan country outdoor adventure in this happyland. We’re happy to organize your trip contact us.
