Weather and Climate of Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp is located on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, about 5,200 meters above sea level. It has stunning mountain views and is the highest point that most tourists can reach when heading to Mount Everest. The area around Mount Everest is divided into a protected area and a living area. Tourists usually visit the living area - the Everest Base Camp located in Tingri County, Shigatse. Due to the extremely high altitude, low temperatures, thin air, and rapidly changing weather conditions, the temperature difference between day and night is large throughout the year. Understanding these temperature patterns can help travelers choose the right season, pack the right clothing, and better adapt to challenging high-altitude conditions.

What is the Weather Like at Everest Base Camp?

The climate at Everest Base Camp is affected by high altitude and plateau monsoons, with lower temperatures and rapid weather changes. Understanding these conditions can help travelers stay safe and comfortable during stay. 

Temperature Characteristics

Everest Base Camp experiences consistently low temperatures throughout the year due to its extreme altitude. Even during the warmest months, daytime temperatures remain cool, while nights can drop well below freezing. Seasonal variations exist, but cold conditions are a constant feature, making it crucial for visitors to keep warm in all seasons. Here's an average monthly temperature chart.

Day–Night Temperature Difference

One of the most notable climate features at Everest Base Camp is the large difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures. Under strong sunshine, daytime conditions may feel relatively mild, especially in late spring and summer. However, after sunset, temperatures fall rapidly, and the feeling quickly turns cold. 

Wind, Sunlight, and Weather Changes

The area is frequently affected by strong winds and intense solar radiation. Clear skies can quickly give way to clouds, wind, snow or rain, and weather conditions can change multiple times throughout the day. In summer, affected by the southeast monsoon, precipitation is the most concentrated and there are more clouds and fog, so you need to prepare rain gear at all times.

Best Time to Visit Mount Everest: Seasonal Overview

The best time to travel is Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) with moderate daytime temperatures and clear air, making them ideal seasons for sightseeing and photography; winter is sunny but extremely cold, and summer may encounter rainfall and clouds.

Winter (November – February)

The temperature is the lowest in winter, which can drop to around -20°C at night. Although there is sunshine during the day, it is still cold. Winds are strong at this time, and snow and ice may occasionally occur. The clear weather in winter is the most ideal season for photography and sightseeing. In the early morning or late afternoon, you can see the magnificent scene of Mount Everest with the sun shining on golden Mountain. At night, the starry sky is clear, which is very suitable for photography.

Spring (March–May)

The temperature gradually rises in spring, and the temperature is moderate during the day, but it is still cold in the morning and evening, and can be as low as about -10℃ at night. The temperature difference between day and night is large, the air is dry, the ice and snow begin to melt, and the glaciers and valleys present a clear sense of layering. Late spring (April-May) enters the transition period to the rainy season, with occasional wind and light snow. On a clear day, you can clearly see the outline of the peaks and glacial crevasses, making it an ideal time for hiking and photography.

Summer (June–August)

In summer, the daytime temperature is relatively warm, about 5℃ to 19℃, but it is still cooler in the morning and evening. Affected by the southeast monsoon. Precipitation is relatively concentrated, and there are occasional heavy rains or clouds, making the mountain peaks looming, especially in the afternoon and evening. The sky is clear after the rain, the outlines of glaciers and snow peaks are clear, and the scenery is vivid. August is the month with the most precipitation, with monthly precipitation of about 100 mm. Summer is suitable for short-distance sightseeing and shooting, but you need to always prepare rain-proof and cold-proof equipment.

Autumn (September – November)

The climate in autumn is dry and stable, with moderate daytime temperatures and cold nights, which can drop to around -13°C. The sky is clear and the visibility is high, making it the best season to enjoy the sunshine and panoramic photos. The contrasting colors of the peaks, glaciers and valleys create stunning scenery. The temperature difference between day and night is gradually narrowing, but you still need to keep warm, especially in the early morning and evening.

What to Wear at Everest Base Camp?

It is recommended to dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in plateau weather. This is very important for comfort and safety during the trip.

Winter (November to April)

Winter is the coldest period at Everest Base Camp, with daytime temperatures mostly below 0°C and nighttime temperatures dropping significantly. Strong winds will further aggravate the cold feeling, and occasionally, snowfall will occur, so keeping warm and windproof is particularly important.

Clothing suggestions:

• Warm base layer + fleece + waterproof and windproof jacket or thick down jacket
• Fleece or windproof warm pants
• Warm hiking boots or snow boots

Accessories:
Gloves, woolen hat, mask, sunglasses

Tips:
Dressing in layers and good wind protection can help in extreme cold conditions. Since the oxygen content is lower at high altitudes in winter, it is recommended to carry a portable oxygen bottle with you, especially for tourists who are sensitive to altitude sickness.

Summer (May to September)

In summer, the daytime temperature is relatively mild, but it is still cold in the early morning and late evening, and the temperature difference between day and night is obvious. Strong sunshine and occasional rain or cloudy weather require a certain degree of flexibility in clothing.

Clothing suggestions:

• Daytime: long-sleeved top + long pants + light jacket
• Night: fleece or light down jacket + thermal underwear

Footwear:
Hiking shoes or non-slip lightweight boots

Accessories:
Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, light gloves (morning or evening or when it’s windy)

Tips:
Pay attention to sun protection and choose clothes made of cotton or soft fabrics to reduce sweating and static electricity. If you are staying or camping at the base camp, it is recommended to bring your own sleeping bag and a spare set of clothes.

Spring and Autumn (April–May/October–November)

The climate in spring and autumn is dry and windy, with a large temperature difference between day and night, but it is generally suitable for viewing and shooting.

Clothing suggestions:

• Thermal underwear + Woolen sweaters or fleece jackets
• Windproof jacket + outdoor trousers

Footwear:
Hiking shoes or non-slip sneakers

Accessories:
Wind hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lightweight gloves

Tips:
Ultraviolet rays are strong on the plateau, so you need to take sun protection measures, such as applying sunscreen, wearing sunglasses and a sunhat. Also, pay attention to hydrating and using moisturizing products to prevent dry skin.

Practical Travel Tips Based on Temperature

Understanding the following tips can help travelers complete the trip more comfortably and safely:

• Protection against cold at night: Even in summer, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, so be sure to pack enough warm clothing and a sleeping bag.
• Accommodation conditions: Accommodation at base camp and along the way is mainly in tents or simple dormitories. Conditions are limited. Please arrange and prepare personal supplies in advance. If you want to stay in a hotel with better conditions, such as Rongbuk Hotel (which provides oxygen supply and floor heating facilities), you need to book 2 months in advance.
• Water, electricity and bathing: The water source in the base camp and some areas passed by is limited and may freeze in winter. The hot water and electricity supply are unstable. It is recommended to bring your own drinking water, toiletries and backup power supply.