Everest Base Camp Trek in January 

Everest Base Camp Trek in January is possible. Trekking during January would be perfect if you are not a big admirer of crowded treks. Due to weather conditions, January might not be a suitable trekking season, but it provides one of the best views of the mountains. December and January are one of the coldest months. But even if its climate is freezing point, the trek offers majestic views of the mountains. 

The Everest base camp trek starts from Lukla, and the base camp lies in the Everest region. From the base Camp, you can see one of the highest mountains in nepal and the world, Mount Everest. The base camp lies at an altitude of 5364 m above sea level. It is not considered a short trek, taking around 15 days to complete. To go to the everest base camp, you must take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, and from there, your journey starts. The EBC trek is one of the most famous treks in Nepal.

Weather in Everest Base Camp in January

If you want to trek to Everest in winter, the January Weather in Everest camp would be quite chilly. The Temperature on Everest would be around -5 degrees Celsius to -12 degrees Celsius. The weather in January is quite snowy, with heavy snowfall making the trail difficult, but it offers a wide range of beautiful photographic scenery of the mountains. But those harsh climate conditions can’t stop you if you are a dedicated trekker. The skies would be pretty much straightforward.

We have made a chart to help you understand the temperature of different places along the way. You will experience this while trekking to the camp of the world’s highest mountain, where you can have peace of mind just by looking at the beauty of the Himalayas. At high altitudes, you could experience more temperature change.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Trekking EBC in January 

The Everest Base Camp Trek in January has many pros and cons, depending on the trekker’s preference. Everest base camp offers a wide range of clear Himalayas, which one could enjoy, but at the cost of weather, tea house availability, etc.

The benefits of the everest base camp trek in January are:

• Fewer People: If you are not so comfortable in crowded places, then a winter trek to EBC during January is best for you. You could see very few people along the way, as many people are uncomfortable surviving in harsh climates.
• Majestic energizing views of the Himalayas: When trekking in January, clear skies allow you to enjoy the beautiful mountain range. From the base camp, you can see the peaks of Mount Everest. Also, the view of Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar is one to watch during this period. This is the perfect month for photographers to take mindblowing pictures that could add much value. The constant snowfall on the mountain peaks and the frozen lakes is something a trekker could cherish for life.
• Snowfall and Skating: Snow falls in January, a cold month. The base camp area is all iced, perfect for skaters to try skating. Skating at the base camp of the world’s highest mountain is a dream of many trekkers, so your dreams could be fulfilled during this time.
• Discounts and many accessible facilities: You may see fewer people in January. So, while picking your package deals, they will provide discounts, cut prices, and even provide accessible complimentary facilities. The trek cost will decrease significantly due to discounts. Trekking in January offers many free services.
• Flights and accommodation: January being an off-season, many trekkers don’t come to Nepal and Everest camps. So, during this time, you get to have your desired seats while booking a flight to Lukla, and the lodges and hotels provide discounts and low prices for you to stay at their place. Some even offer food at a discounted price.

The drawbacks of hiking in January to visit Everest base camp are:

• Shorter Days: The days are shorter during January; the sun doesn’t rise early in the morning and sets quite fast in the evening. The explorers will have short days, which will make it hard for them to fully explore the place. It might increase the number of days you have to complete the trek. 
• A clump of snow: At higher altitudes, harsh weather and heavy snowfall could create clumps of snow along the way. The trails are filled with clumps, so you must walk past them. Also, the trail is filled with snow, so you could get confused and go the wrong path. The trek will be pretty long due to the difficulty in walking.
• Frost temperature: January is the coldest month of the year. The temperature goes below the freezing point during January on the everest. The temperature drops significantly at night, making it hard for people to stay warm. January is cold, with an average temperature of around -17 degrees Celsius in the base camp area. 
• Blizzards: On your trip to Everest, keep an ear to the news, as blizzards can come at any time. Always keep yourself updated if you are planning your trek in January. You don’t want to get hit by a snowy, windy Blizzard.

Is Altitude Sickness a Concern While Trekking at the Everest Base Camp In January?

While trekking the everest base camp during January, many people might feel altitude sickness due to the extremely harsh climate and weather conditions. Altitude sickness is a condition where a person’s body can’t adjust to the oxygen available at higher heights.

When their bodies can’t cope with the oxygen availability, they will be out of breath, suffocate, and even die. When there is less oxygen, the body can’t function properly, making it more difficult for trekkers to ascend. Acclimatization to the elevation is essential to maintain a fit body.

There are two ways to overcome altitude sickness: prepare, train your body months before the trek, and take things that help you overcome altitude sickness. You should start to train your body months before your trek. Try short hikes and do a lot of cardio if you plan to trek to everest. While going to Everest base camp, carry medicine that prevents altitude sickness or a small oxygen cylinder. Some natural remedies might be to take raw Garlic with you, which helps with altitude sickness.

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Packing List for Everest trek in January 

Before you go to any place to trek, you should always pack all the necessary things correctly to avoid any disturbances you feel. When you pack essential stuff like shoes, medicine, socks, etc, those things will be helpful when needed. Likewise, before doing treks in the everest region, make sure you carry this critical itinerary we have listed below:

• Sleeping bag.
• A big bag that has enough space to accommodate things.
• A pair of warm socks, jackets, and tracks to keep you warm.
• A pair of trekking shoes, specifically a pair of snow-resistant shoes.
• Medicines for fever, cold, altitude sickness, and food digestion.
• A small Oxygen cylinder.
• Some canned food, dry fruits, and sweet chocolates.

Things to Consider While Trekking EBC in January

January is known for the offseason, so always hire a guide to get familiar with the everest region. Due to snowy terrain and sudden blizzard occurrences, the trek will take a long time to complete. Plan our trek early about the itinerary so when the actual trek begins, you won’t have much difficulty. The trek is quite long, so prepare your body physically and mentally and focus on having a proper diet. It is highly recommended not to trek solo and always be in groups of more than three.

Conclusion

The Everest base camp trek in January might be challenging. Still, the snow and clear skies make it perfect for experienced trekkers to enjoy and be mesmerized by Mount Everest’s beauty. The temperature in the everest region during January will be hard to cope with. Ensure your body has acclimatized to the climate before you trek in January. The daytime temperature at the base camp would be slightly colder than nightfall.

It is highly recommended that you never trek solo at the Everest base camp in January. Always hire a guide and a porter to carry your stuff. The hotels and lodges will be pretty much empty, making you choose, and you will get at a cut-off price.

Frequently Asked Questions by Travellers