Everest Base Camp Trek in January can be a memorable trip for those who prepare better for winter and cold since it is a peaceful time, the trails get empty, and the sky looks clear.
Everest Base Camp Weather in January
Generally, the weather in Everest in January gets colder as the temperature can go as low as -7 to -15 degrees celsius at night. However, when you are in a cozy room under the layer of blankets having mercury hit, then it is tolerable. The daytime is reasonably tolerable as the temperate ranges from 1 to 5 degrees.
Before Trekking in EBC in January was considered to be off-season, but now the number of trekkers is increasing this month. However, the trekkers must be aware of their preparation before starting the trek. Fortunately, the trail, teahouses, and beautiful mountain views still can be ensured at this time.
What about Lukla Flight in January?
Lukla flight is operated from Kathmandu since it is off-season and a very less number of flights depart to Lukla. But the flights can be canceled or delayed due to fog in Kathmandu and snowfall in Lukla. Fortunately, the weather is quite stable at this time.
Teahouse/Lodges
Very less number of teahouses remain open in the trail in the month of January. You can find at least 1 lodge or teahouse is opened. However, it can not be ensured which one will be opened. Although it is an off-season, the prices of the rooms do not fluctuate; it remains intact. While you may get discounts on flight tickets and get offers from hither and thither.
Things to be considered for Everest Base Camp Trek in January
- Do not travel alone. We highly advise you to find the best trekking agency to make your trip safe. As already mentioned above, the trail would be empty. So, at least, it is better to hire a guide and porter (At least a guide cum porter). Unfortunately, if you fall into some kind of trouble, s/he will be there to help you.
- The best preparation for trekking gear includes warm-insulating clothing and a sleeping bag. Make sure, you bring warm clothes.
- Make sure to check weather forecasting
- If you find worse weather or the weather gets worse, it is wise to descend down or stay at a teahouse or lodge near you.
- Every day, start the trek early in the morning and end before sunset as the daytime is shorter; it gets dark and colder in the evening.
- Don’t rush while you trek – Keep going slowly because you may fall into acute mountain sickness.
- Do not forget to buy travel insurance that covers an altitude above 5000m.
Festivals in January
In Nepal, there are a few numbers of festivals mostly celebrated in the month of January. When you come to trek to Everest, then you may also celebrate this festival in Nepal.
- Maghe Sakranti (Makar Sakranti) – It is a festival of Ghee, Chaku, and Tarul (Yam). Especially, it is celebrated by Hindu people. It marks the first day of the sun’s transit into the Makara (Capricorn) signaling the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days.
- Basant Panchami (Saraswati Puja)
- Sonam Lhosar – It is celebrated by the Tamang and Hyolmo people of Nepal, Sikkim, and Darjeeling as a new year festival.
