Everest Base Camp Trek in February

Trekking the foothills of the highest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest (8848m) is an incredible experience. The spectacular Everest region is one of the most trekked paths in the world. The trails are well marked and geographically diverse. There are relatively less number of trekkers at this time of the year and you can enjoy the pleasant trek without any hassle.

Are you planning to trek the Everest region in February? Then you might wonder that is Everest Base Camp trek in February even doable? Well, let me assure you that trekking is February not only possible, but you will also get some of the best views of the breathtaking snow-capped mountains in all its glory. The unobstructed view of the mountains produces for some of the best photographs of the region.

February is a month with unique weather conditions as during this month the winter chills makes way for the beautiful spring. It is obvious to think the weather around Everest Base Camp will be quite cold in February. Well, it is undoubtedly cold in the morning and the night but the days are warm, which makes for a pleasant trekking environment.

During late February, the conditions improve as the temperature climbs up and makes for a perfect trekking experience. That does not mean the trekking in the early parts of February is not possible. If you can brave the cold weather and with proper packing of warm clothing, you can trek the Everest Base Camp in the early part of February as well.

I have explained some of the frequently asked questions regarding Everest Base Camp trek in February. Read further for more detailed information and book your trip as soon as possible!

Highlights of The Trek

• Trekking at your own pace in a peaceful environment
• Enjoying the facilities of the teahouses, lodges along the trail at a bargain price
• Experiencing the winter paradise of the Everest region
• Breathtaking sunrise view from Kala Patthar
• Clear, unobstructed view of the mountain range on a backdrop of a clear blue sky
• Passing through the conservation area of Sagarmatha National Park
• Awe-inspiring views of Mt. Everest, Mt Ama Dablam, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse and other snow-capped mountains
• A cultural exploration of local Sherpa people and their Incredible hospitality

Standard Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu. (1300m)

Day 02: Free and arrangement day.

Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2860m) Then trek to Monzo.(2804m), 10 KM Approx.

Day 04: Trek from Monzo to Namche Bazaar.(3445m), 4 KM Approx.

Day 05: Rest Day in Namche Bazaar.

Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3850m), 9.5 KM Approx.

Day 07: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4350m) 11 KM Approx.

Day 08: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4950m). 11 KM Approx.

Day 09: Trek from Lobuche to Ghorakshep (5160m). Trek to Everest Base camp  5,364 m  and down to  Ghorakshep. 15 KM Approx.

Day 10: Trek from Gorak Shep to Kalapathar (5554m). Trek down to Phireche, 13 KM Approx.

Day 11: Trek from Phireche to Khumjung Village (3753 m)

Day 12: Trek from Khumjung Village to Manjoo (2840m)

Day 13: Trek from Manjoo to Lukla

Day 14: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Want to know detailed itinerary? Follow: Everest Bas Camp Trek Detailed Itinerary

The Weather Around Everest Base Camp in February

As the weather transitions from winter to spring in February, a unique trekking opportunity dawns upon us. The temperature starts to warm up during the day, but the nights are still frigid and windy. You can expect the maximum temperature to reach 6 °C (43 °F) and the minimum temperature to fall to -16 °C (3 °F).

However, the weather in the Everest region is unpredictable and a quick change in the conditions from sunshine to rain can happen within hours. It is ideal to plan your trek for the late February as the weather begins to warm up. The trek in early February is a lot more challenging as the cold can cause you a lot of hassles, but with proper gear and preparation, it is doable nevertheless.

The temperature also changes according to the level of elevations. Lower elevation trails are milder and more humid, and higher elevations have colder nights and mornings as one can expect. The wind is also a key factor to consider while trekking in the Everest region. During this period of the year, you can expect the wind speed to fluctuate from 8 to 12 mph at the region.

Warm insulating clothing and sleeping bags should be of priority of any trekker. The days are usually clear, but in the high elevations, there could be some snowfall. Check the weather forecast before you start your trek for the day. You might have to stay at the lodge if the weather worsens.

The temperature of different places along the Everest Base Camp trek:

[table id=7 /]

Why Trek Everest Base Camp in February?

Wonderful view of the mountains

Why do we trek? One of the primary reasons to trek is to experience the gorgeous beauty of the mountainside in all its glory. The Everest Base Camp trek in February offers you just that and more. The magnificent view of the snow-capped mountains is a major attraction of the Everest Base Camp Trek in February.

The wind blows away the clouds in the region, providing outstanding views of the Himalayas. The winter conditions make the world’s most extraordinary landscapes look stunningly beautiful. The breathtaking panoramic views in the winter wilderness is a thing of beauty.

Empty trails

The month of February isn’t the peak season for tourists in Nepal. The major tourist destinations are practically empty, and you can enjoy the trail in a peaceful environment. You can walk through the snow-covered trails in quiet while observing the beautiful panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range.

There is no denying the fact that the Everest region gets overcrowded during the peak season. Tea houses and lodges are almost always full, and you will have to share your room with fellow trekkers or sleep in the hall. But during the off-season, there are very few trekkers on the trail, and you will not encounter any hassle regarding your stay along the trail.

Bargain price

Everest Base Camp trek during the offseason is a budget travelers paradise. The prices of everything drop significantly, including accommodation, flight, meals, and others. Besides these, there are many off-season offers as well to attract tourists. So, if you are a budget backpacker wanting to trek the Everest region, then the month of February is ideal for you

Food and Accommodation along the Everest Base Camp Trek in February

The tea houses and lodges are almost empty because of the offseason. You can get all the facilities like cozy beds, sleeping blankets, hot showers, hot meals at a bargain price. Since February is not a peak tourist season, you can enjoy your stay in a peaceful environment.

The overcrowded Everest region becomes quiet in the offseason, and you can use the facilities at these places without any hassle. If you feel cold during the night, you can rest near the fireplace in the kitchen. Furthermore, hot showers will be at your disposal at any time of the day.

You will not need to book in advance to find an excellent place to stay. However, it is advisable to book early in any case to be safe from any inconvenience. These little places serve you healthy and nutritious meals made from the local products. Do not expect anything fancy but the meal is nutritious enough for you to get energized for the trek.

Trekking Trails for the Everest Base Camp Trek in February

The Everest Base Camp trek from Lukla is quite popular and rightly so. But the trek option is not limited to this route as there are multiple routes along the trek with each route providing a unique perspective of the region.

After taking the adventurous flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, your trek journey starts officially. The classic trail passes along the settlements of Phakding, Namche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorakshep, and Everest Base Camp respectively before taking the route back to Lukla.

If you love some added challenge, then the Cho la and Renjo la pass trail and Gokyo-EBC trail is ideal for you. The trek is quite challenging as you will have to walk along in a glacial path. The gorgeous Gokyo Lakes will overwhelm you along this trek. You will also be passing through the stunning Cho la and Renjo la mountain passes.

Alternatively, there is the Jiri-EBC trail, which replaces the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla with a trek from Jiri instead. Overall, there are plenty of options to choose from, and you can select the best one you like.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

Trekkers will be walking 5-8 hours per day on an average for 12-14 days in the foothills of the Himalayas. The trail around the Everest region one of the most well-marked trekking trails in the world and is easily approachable. If you take the alternative Chola pass and Gokyo lake route them you must add a couple of days to your trip.

The trail moves along the altitude of above 4000m at all times. The temperature, oxygen levels, and air pressure dip to a bare minimum. You will have a tough time breathing, and the risk of Altitude sickness is always present. To cope with the altitude sickness, proper acclimatization, and hydration at regular intervals is a must.

Also, it is advisable to not attempt more than 600m in elevation at any trekking day for your safety. No technical climbing skills are necessary unless you take the Chola Pass route where you will be walking on an icy glacier. Overall, the Everest Base Camp trek in February is moderately challenging primarily because of the weather and the altitude.

Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek in February

Get Proper training

A good training routine before you start your Everest Base Camp trek never goes to waste. Your physical fitness and stamina play a significant role during the trek in the Everest region. A healthy diet also crucial along with the training.

A balanced regulated food with proper water intake is always a must. The training should include cardiovascular activities like cycling, swimming, and others. These activities will help you in the trek immensely.

Pack properly

Proper packing with sufficient protective gear and clothing is quite necessary. You need to dress in layers as you can add or remove layers of clothing based on the weather requirements.

The nights are freezing in the Everest region so you should carry extra down jackets and comfortable sleeping bags to cope with the cold. A trekking pole helps you guide along the trail. You should also pack trekking shoes, gloves, ski-goggles, emergency lights, sunscreen, and other stuff you find necessary.

Acclimatize and hydrate regularly

Acclimatization is a process where you let your body adapt to the changing environment. The process includes going uphill and downhill at a steady pace. It relaxes your body helps you cope with the altitude sickness.

Hydrating regularly is another vital aspect of acclimatization. The process increases the oxygen levels in your body and makes your trekking adventure a success.

Start your trek early

Starting early helps to reach your trekking destination for the day before it turns dark. You will have to trek for almost 7-8 hours during the day. The weather in the Everest region is unpredictable, and the risk of unexpected snowfall is always present during the trek. Hence, to reach your destination safe and sound, you should always start your trek for the day early.

Hire a guide and a porter

A local guide helps you to identify the trail under challenging conditions and provide local information essential for the trek. The guide will also help you understand the local culture and tradition so that you won’t do any activities that might offend the locals. Some trekkers confuse a guide with a porter. A porter carries your luggage during the trek lifting the weight off your back.

Prepare for Altitude sickness

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a high altitude trek that moves along 4000m at all times. The oxygen levels and air pressure dip to a bare minimum contributing to the altitude sickness. The Himalayan Rescue Mission’s health post at Pheriche provides information and medical services related to altitude sickness.

Get your necessary Permits

The TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit is a must for any trekking activity in Nepal. Trekkers do not require the TIMS permit if he/she has a local permit. There are also local permits issued at Monjo, Chubu region for a fee of USD 20, and also in Kathmandu in the office of Nepal tourism.

There is another permit issued at the Sagarmatha National park. Trekkers need to show and register their permits at several checkpoints around the region. You can get this permit at Monjo or Kathmandu at the cost of USD 30, with added government tax. If you are trekking from Jiri to Lukla, then you will require the Gauri Shankar National Park Permit at Shivalaya checkpoint at the cost of USD 20.

Get a Travel insurance

Getting travel insurance is quite necessary. Accidents can happen at any time, and you need to stay protected at all times. Injuries might also require helicopter evaluation for some cases, and the helicopter ride might cost around $5000 to $10000.

Therefore, getting travel insurance is a crucial exercise. The travel insurance comes in handy in case of flight delays and cancellation due to unfavorable weather conditions.

The Items You Need for Everest Base Camp Trek in February

If you seek to trek the Everest Base Camp region in early February, then you should be properly equipped with proper gear and clothing. It will be quite cold during the nighttime, and without appropriate clothing, there might be a risk of frostbite.

You should pack warm insulating clothes along with sleeping bags in case the blankets are not enough. The weather in late February will be considerably warmer, and if you are seeking to trek the Everest region at this time, then you don’t have to pack heavy.

Another thing to remember is to carry layers of clothing rather than a bulky jacket so that you can add or remove layers of your garment according to the condition. The list of items that you need for the Everest Base Camp Trek in February are:

• Trekking trousers
• Warm Down Jacket
• Waterproof trekking shoes
• Thermals
• Fleece jackets
• Insulating gloves
• Large backpack (60l)
• First aid kit
• Trekking Poles
• Sleeping bags
• Woolen hats
• Pair of Sunglasses
• Trekking tops
• Traditional Maps/ Google maps
• Sunscreen
• Snacks
• Toiletries (Tissues, wet wipes, soap, shampoo, Moisturizers, sanitizers, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
• Water Bottles and water purifying tablets or purifiers
• Notebook and pen
• Camera

Conclusion

The Everest Base Camp in February is a perfect adventure. The cloud-free skies and beautiful views of the mountains make this trek exceptional. The trek during late February is ideal as it is the transition phase from winter to spring.

That does not mean the trek in the early part of February is not possible. The conditions might be a little colder but with sufficient protective gear and proper preparation the trek of the Everest Base Camp in early February is doable.

You can enjoy the facilities at your accommodation at a bargain price since these places will be almost empty due to the offseason. Overall, if you are an avid trekker, then the Everest Base Camp Trek in February is a perfect adventure.