Everest Base Camp Trek in October

6th May, 2019

October is the best month for the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek, as it falls within the peak autumn trekking season. This month marks the middle of autumn, offering stable weather, clear skies, and breathtaking mountain views, making it one of the most popular times to trek in the Everest region. In September, there may still be some rain as it follows the monsoon season, while in November, snowfall is possible as winter begins to set in.

If you are planning a trip to Nepal for an unforgettable holiday at Everest Base Camp, this trek is one of the most popular destinations for adventure seekers. Passionate travelers from around the world love visiting Nepal to embark on the Everest Base Camp Trek. This journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, as you will trek to the base of the world’s highest mountain, Everest (8,848 meters). The trek is also a tribute to the brave climbers who have conquered its summit.

We highly recommend October as the best time for the Everest Base Camp Trek. By this month, the monsoon season has ended, providing clear skies and ideal weather conditions throughout Nepal. The post-monsoon climate ensures excellent trekking conditions, making October the perfect time to explore the Everest region.

During this month, the beauty of the Himalayas is at its peak. The mountains are covered in pristine white snow, while the surrounding landscapes showcase stunning natural beauty. The Everest region welcomes you with crystal-clear, panoramic views of the Himalayan range, a deep blue sky stretching over the hills and mountains, and a fresh, clean breeze accompanying you throughout the trek. With such perfect conditions, you are guaranteed an unforgettable Everest Base Camp trekking experience.

Full Board Package Cost for the EBC Trek 

We offer a full-board package for the Everest Base Camp Trek based on trekkers' requirements. Our program includes various packages with different itineraries, depending on the starting and ending points and the trekkers' pace.

The full-board package costs between USD 1250 and 2500. These packages provide an all-inclusive and hassle-free adventure in the Everst Base Camp Trek, typically covering everything from arrival to departure in Kathmandu. This include three nights' hotel stay in Kathmandu, all private transport in Kathmandu and Flight to Lukla and back,  logistics, accommodations, meals, permits, guide and porter services, and a basic first aid kit for the trek.

This full-board package makes planning easy, as all logistics and permits are managed by our agency. Our experienced local guides ensure a safe and enriching trekking experience, while meals and accommodations are arranged so you can focus entirely on the trek.

Highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek

• World’s highest Mt. Everest Base Camp (5363m)
• Kalapatthar (magnificent viewpoint)
• Teng Boche and Pang Boche monastery (worthy about Buddhist religion)
• Nepal’s biggest Khumbu glaciers
• Hillary Museum, Hospital and School
• Namche Bazaar-the Sherpa’s capital town
• UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site Sagarmatha National Park and National Park Museum
• Sherpa old culture museum in Namche
• Explore traditional Sherpa villages & experience their culture, traditions & hospitality (Lukla, Phak ding, Monju, Namche, Pang Boche and Ding Boche)
• Witnessing the beauty of tough mountain trails, waterfalls, and swift-flowing rivers

Everest Base Camp Trek Temperature in October

We have already explained the Everest Base Camp Trek, but you may be wondering about the temperatures throughout the journey. October offers ideal trekking temperatures, as the weather in this region remains moderate. From Lukla to Everest Base Camp, daytime temperatures are warm while trekking, but nights can be chilly. However, the temperatures are generally manageable.

As you ascend towards Everest Base Camp, temperatures gradually decrease with increasing elevation. However, in October, it is neither too cold at higher elevations nor too hot at lower altitudes, making it one of the best times for the trek.

Throughout the Everest Base Camp Trek, daytime temperatures can reach a maximum of around 15°C on average. On sunny days, temperatures may rise to approximately 20°C. At night, temperatures can drop to around -5°C, while on cold mornings at elevations above 4,000 meters, they may fall to -10°C. Occasionally, temperature fluctuations occur due to global warming.

Therefore, it is advisable to check daily weather updates for key locations along the trek. Places like Gorak Shep and Lobuche often experience sub-freezing temperatures. This is why having the right trekking gear is essential for a comfortable and safe Everest Base Camp Trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek Weather in October

It is important to understand the weather conditions in October for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, and bad weather can occur unexpectedly. However, in recent years, October has generally experienced stable and favorable weather in the Everest region.

Nepal has a significant monsoon season, followed by autumn, which begins right after the monsoon ends. October falls in the middle of autumn. The monsoon rains help clear the atmosphere by washing away dust and pollution, resulting in crisp, dry, and clear weather. This is why the weather at Everest Base Camp in October is considered fantastic.

There is a slight chance of rainfall, but it rarely affects the spectacular views. The weather during the Everest Base Camp Trek remains stable most of the time, though occasional light rain may accompany your journey for a short distance.

The fresh, clean air enhances visibility at viewpoints like Kala Patthar, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. Clear skies and good weather also highlight the beauty of the landscapes, lush forests, and mountain vistas along the trail.

In rare cases, if the weather worsens slightly, you may experience light rain or snowfall at higher elevations, but this is unlikely to disrupt your trek. Rainfall or snowfall in October is uncommon in this region.

With good preparation and the right mindset, your trek will be an incredible experience. The Everest Base Camp Trek in October is an excellent choice, as stable weather and breathtaking scenery ensure a smooth and rewarding journey.

Accommodation during the EBC Trek in October Month

There are various lodges along the Everest Base Camp trek. The available lodges and guesthouses provide clean rooms and delicious food. Our trekking guide will help you find the best hotels in each town. In some villages, there are luxurious hotels, but they are more expensive than the normal teahouses. Ultimately, you can choose based on your budget.

October is the main trekking season in Nepal, as well as in the Everest region.

If you are trekking to EBC as an individual trekker, it can be very difficult to get rooms for accommodation because the teahouses will be busy during this peak season. In the busy months, you may have to share accommodations with other travelers (of the same gender) or sleep in the dining room. Additionally, there will likely be long queues for meals due to the busy schedule. Most guesthouses provide extra blankets for an additional charge, but it is highly recommended to carry your own warm sleeping bag for the night.

Food during the EBC Trek in October

Every teahouse and lodge along the EBC trek has a menu with nearly identical food items, offering a variety of options, including both local and international dishes. The cooks are skilled, but the meals may taste different from Western cuisine. Since meat is scarce and not always fresh in the mountains, we recommend trying vegetarian dishes.

Dal Bhat is a highly recommended meal during the EBC trek, as it is served with rice, lentil soup, vegetables, pickles, and papad. The food menu includes a variety of dishes like burgers, pizza, momos, soups, potato dishes, meat items, bakery items, fried foods, and more.

If trekkers are in a large group (more than six people), it is highly recommended to order the same dishes for lunch and dinner. This is especially important during the busy October month, as it can take a long time to prepare all the food.

Drinks:-

During the Everest Base Camp Trek, you'll find a variety of drink options available at the tea houses lodges and tea shops along the trail. Here are some common drink choices you can expect during Everest Base Camp Trek:

Hot Drinks:
Tea:There are many different types of hot tea such as black tea, green tea, herbal tea, spiced tea (Nepali tea), Ginger tea, milk Tea are readily available. These hot teas provide warmth and comfort, especially in the colder altitudes.

Coffee: Most of the lodges offer the coffee items but Instant coffee is normally available at tea houses during the Everest Base Camp Trek. While the quality might vary like milk and black, it's a warm and energizing option.

Hot Chocolate: it is a delightful treat for those seeking a sweet and warm beverage.
 Ginger Lemon Honey Tea:This is a popular drink for its potential health benefits and soothing properties during the high altitude trekking. 

Bottled Water: Bottled water also is available at teahouses for purchase. It's necessary to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes, to prevent altitude sickness. Purchasing bottled water becomes more expensive as you ascend to higher altitudes, it’s a good idea to use a refillable water bottle and use water purification methods when refilling from local sources.  Our team will provide guidance on the proper usage of water purification methods, ensuring your hydration needs are met responsibly and economically during the journey.

Soft Drinks: Must of the teahouses offer canned or bottled soft drinks like cola, Pepsi, soda, and fruit juices. Availability will be limited at higher altitudes due to the logistics of transportation.

Alcoholic Beverages: All teahouses offer a limited selection of alcoholic beverages like beer, rum vodka and local beverages like Tongba and Raksi. You should keep in mind that alcohol can dehydrate you and might have a more marked effect at higher altitudes.

Festive Atmosphere & Local Culture in October during the EBC Trek 

October is not only the best trekking month for the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek but also a vibrant time to experience Nepal’s rich culture and traditions. Two of Nepal’s biggest festivals, Dashain and Tihar, usually fall in October, creating a festive atmosphere along the trekking route.

• Dashain Festival (Biggest Festival in Nepal) 

Dashain is Nepal’s biggest Hindu festival, celebrated for 15 days to honor the goddess Durga’s victory over evil. The main celebrations during this festival include worship, animal sacrifices, family gatherings, and receiving Tika (a red mark on the forehead) and blessings from elders. Many Nepali guides, porters, and teahouse owners take short breaks to celebrate with their families.

For trekkers, Dashain offers a unique cultural experience. You may see locals wearing new clothes, flying kites, and celebrating with traditional music and food in villages along the trekking routes.

• Tihar (Festival of Lights) 

Also known as Deepawali, Tihar is a 5-day Hindu festival dedicated to various animals and the bond between brothers and sisters. Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche host the best celebrations during Tihar. Key highlights for trekkers include:

• Kaag Tihar (Crow Day): Crows are fed as messengers of good fortune.
• Kukur Tihar (Dog Day): People honor dogs by placing tika and flower garlands on them.
• Gai Tihar & Laxmi Puja (Cow & Goddess of Wealth): Houses and teahouses are decorated with oil lamps and candles.
• Govardhan Puja (Ox Day): Oxen and bulls are worshipped.
• Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Day): Sisters put tika on their brothers' foreheads, wishing them a long life.

Villages and teahouses along the EBC trail are lit up with candles and oil lamps, creating a magical atmosphere. You may see locals singing and dancing (Deusi-Bhailo tradition), and some may even invite you to join in

• Buddhist Influence in the Everest Region in October 

Since the Khumbu region is predominantly Sherpa and Buddhist, you'll also witness many Buddhist cultural aspects, including:
Prayer flags and mani walls (stone-carved Buddhist prayers) along the trek.

• Monasteries like Tengboche Monastery, where monks perform daily prayers.
• Butter lamps and chants inside monasteries during evening prayers.

Visit Tengboche Monastery to experience Sherpa Buddhist traditions and even witness prayers and rituals performed by monks.

• Teahouses and Local Hospitality in October 

Due to the festival season, teahouse owners and locals are especially warm and welcoming. Some teahouses might serve special festival foods, such as:

• Sel Roti – A deep-fried rice bread, often eaten during Dashain and Tihar.
• Chang (Local Rice Beer) – A popular festival drink in the Sherpa community.

Ask your teahouse hosts from your guide about festival customs—they love sharing their traditions with trekkers!

Difficulties you might face during the EBC Trek in October

While October is one of the best months to trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC), there are still some challenges or difficulties you might face due to busy trekking season, the high altitude, weather conditions, and the flight to Lukla from Ramechhap.  

• Crowded Trails and Tea Houses 

Since October is the peak season for trekking, the Everest Base Camp Trek can be quite busy. This means you'll be trekking alongside many other trekkers, which can sometimes lead to crowded tea houses, especially during peak hours in the evening, as well as busy trails in popular trekking areas like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Gorak Shep. Therefore, it is advisable to book your tea house accommodation and flights to Lukla in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Limited Availability of Accommodation 

Since it's the peak trekking season, teahouses along the route can be fully booked, especially in higher-altitude villages like Gorak Shep or Dingboche. The rooms may be smaller and more crowded, with fewer options for solo trekkers. Waiting for rooms might become a regular occurrence as trekkers arrive at the same time. Therefore, it's important to reserve rooms early where possible or be flexible with accommodation.

• Weather Challenges (Variable Conditions) 

The weather in the Himalayan areas can be unpredictable. While October typically offers clear skies and pleasant conditions, the weather in the high Himalayas can change suddenly. You might encounter snowstorms or rainfall, especially in the higher sections. Morning temperatures can be very cold, particularly above 4,000 meters. High-altitude areas like Gorak Shep and Kala Patthar may still experience strong winds that make the conditions feel colder than they actually are. Therefore, it's important to pack warm layers, a windproof jacket, and rain gear for unexpected weather.

• Altitude-Related Health Issues 

Although October offers ideal weather conditions, the high altitude (up to 5,364 meters at EBC) means you'll still face the risk of altitude sickness (AMS). Symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath are common as you ascend. Therefore, it's important to acclimatize properly, trek slowly, stay hydrated, and seek medical help if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.

• Lukla Flights Can Be Delayed or Canceled 

Lukla airport is known for its unpredictability, as it is located in a hilly region. October is a busy time for flights to and from Lukla, and bad weather (clouds, wind) can cause delays or cancellations. Flight delays can result in the loss of a day or two from your itinerary. Therefore, it is important to build in a buffer day for your itinerary in case of delays. Nowadays, all flights operate from Ramechhap to Lukla, so traveling to and from Ramechhap can be a challenge as it is 140 km from Kathmandu.

• Limited Electricity and Charging Options 

As you trek higher during the EBC Trek, electricity becomes scarcer. The availability of charging stations in teahouses is limited, and charging your devices (phones, cameras, etc.) can take longer. Expect power outages or high charging fees at higher altitudes. Therefore, it is important to carry a power bank and solar charger to ensure your devices remain charged.

Packing list for EBC Trek in October

Packing for the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek in October requires preparation for varied weather (cold mornings and evenings, warmer days) and the high-altitude conditions of the Himalayas. Here's a comprehensive packing list to ensure you're well-prepared for the trek:

• Backpack: A 25-40L daypack for daily use (carry essential items like water, snacks, camera, etc.).
• Trekking Shoes: Comfortable, sturdy trekking boots (waterproof) with a good grip for rocky and snowy terrain
• Clothing:  Base Layer, Mid Layer, Outer Layer, Pants, Thermal Layer and Down Jacket
• Accessories: Hat, Gloves, Neck Gaiter or Buff, Sunglasses, Headlamp, Sunblock, Chafing cream or Vaseline for comfort during long days of trekking.
• Water and Hydration:  Water bottles (2-3 liters total),  Water purification tablets or filter (optional but useful for extra safety) or Hydration bladder (optional) for easier drinking on the go.
• Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (14°F) or better for the cold nights at higher altitudes.
• Trekking Poles: Two trekking poles for balance, especially on steeper sections or snowy terrain.
• First Aid Kit: Basic first aid supplies: plasters, antiseptic cream, ibuprofen/acetaminophen, blister pads, bandages, and any personal medications. Altitude sickness medication (Diamox or prescribed by your doctor).
• Camera: Camera and extra memory cards to capture the stunning views. Power bank to charge electronics (limited charging options at teahouses). Phone for emergency contact and maps.
• Toiletries : Toothbrush, toothpaste, and biodegradable soap. Hand sanitizer and wet wipes. Toilet paper (usually not provided at teahouses). Towel (quick-dry, lightweight). Earplugs (optional, for a peaceful night’s sleep in crowded teahouses).

Conclusion 

October is a busy month for trekking and hiking in Nepal. The weather during this month is generally clear and stable, with mild temperatures that are well-suited for trekking. This makes it an ideal month for the EBC Trek.

However, aside from the perfect weather and temperatures, there are some challenges, such as the effects of high-altitude sickness. It is important to take acclimatization days to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. With proper acclimatization, your trekking experience will be much more enjoyable. Additionally, since October is a busier time to visit Everest Base Camp, you will have the opportunity to meet and interact with many other trekking teams along the way.

If you plan to trek to Everest Base Camp in October, you should make arrangements with a reputable team like High Pass Adventure Trekking. You can trust High Pass Adventure to handle all the arrangements for you, ensuring a hassle-free trekking experience. We offer the best autumn package, crafted especially for your convenience, for the Everest Base Camp trek in October at a reasonable price. With us, you will have an unforgettable trip to EBC during the best possible travel time. You will also enjoy breathtaking landscapes in weather that brings out their full potential. Additionally, it's a great time to experience Nepali culture, as it coincides with local festivals.