Overview:

December is the beginning of the winter season in Nepal. December offers a blend of serenity, the perfect amount of snowfall, and amazing landscapes. As the peak tourist season tapers off, this time will be perfect for solitude seekers and people wanting to experience snowfall while trekking. Although December brings colder temperatures, it also brings spectacular mountain views and clear skies. This period is considered by many as the perfect time for a short day hike, but it is an equally favorable period for trekking in Nepal.

Trekking in places with elevations above 4000 meters may not be suitable, but plenty of places have lower elevations. These places are equally majestic and accessible. As the tea houses and lodges are still open around this time, trekkers do not have to worry about accommodation. You can choose to trek in early December, as winter has just begun in Nepal. In this article, let’s explore all the aspects of trekking during December in Nepal.

Why you should trek in December in Nepal

  1. Lowest Rainfall: December receives the lowest rainfall in Nepal. Many trekkers hate monsoons because the trails get wet and slippery during them. So, if you’re trekking in December, you don’t have to worry about the rainfall, making it a very good choice for trekkers.
  2. Proper Accommodation: As autumn and spring are the peak trekking seasons in Nepal, trekkers can get proper accommodation in December. All the tea houses and lodges are vacant, which gives trekkers plenty to choose from. Tea houses usually remain closed from January to February.
  3. Fewer People: During December, the trails are usually empty. Solitude seekers can enjoy the quiet trails with amazing views. During autumn and spring, crowds can affect your trekking experience. So, December can be a perfect choice due to fewer people on the trail.
  4. Perfect Amount of Snowfall: December usually receives the perfect amount of snow, which is neither heavy nor scarce. The snowfall makes the landscape even more mesmerizing. Unlike January or February, which receive heavy snowfall, December receives little snow, which is perfect for trekkers.
  5. Frozen Lakes: During December, you can witness frozen lakes in the Everest and Annapurna regions. These lakes create perfect photography opportunities for enthusiasts. Trekkers can witness these lakes around this time of the year.
  6. Amazing Views: Due to the clear skies, winter usually has unobstructed views of the Himalayas. Trekkers can walk beneath the crystal clear skies in winter.

Best Places To Trek During December in Nepal

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

This classic and popular trek is favorable all year long. As the accommodation and other facilities are pretty good in this region, trekkers usually choose it. The maximum elevation you’ll reach during this trek is 4130 meters. As the elevation is not too high, trekkers can easily trek in this region during December. As a thick layer of snow gets deposited on the trail, navigation can be a bit tough around this time of the year. The maximum temperature in December in this region stays below 10 degrees Celsius, and the minimum stays around negative 5 degrees. Trekkers can enjoy the amazing views of this famous trek. From changing landscapes to unique local culture, this is an all-rounder in terms of treks in Nepal. Here are some quick info on this popular trek:

ABC
Annapurna Base Camp (Source: Facebook)

 

  • Trek’s Duration: 7-8 days
  • Maximum Elevation: 4130 meters
  • Location: Annapurna Region, Kaski District, Nepal
  • Starting & Ending point: Pokhara
  • Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Langtang Region Trek

Situated in the northern part of Nepal, Langtang is one of the most remote valleys in the country. Located inside the Langtang National Park, this famous trekking destination is favorable during December. Although the valley is close to Kathmandu, it is unhinged by modernization. The Langtang Valley, Kyangjin Gompa, and Gosaikunda Lake are some of the famous trekking destinations in this region. During the month of December, the forest turns barren, and you can witness less wildlife. The weather remains warm during the daytime, but the temperature drops significantly at night. Peaks like Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Tsangbu Ri are clearly visible due to clear skies. Here are some important info on this popular trek:

Langtang Region
Langtang Region Trek (Source: Facebook)

 

  • Trek’s Duration: 6 days
  • Maximum Elevation: 5050 meters
  • Location: Langtang Region, Rasuwa District, Nepal
  • Starting & Ending Point: Syabrubesi, Rasuwa
  • Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

One of Nepal’s easiest yet rewarding treks, the Ghorepani and Poonhill are popular viewpoints in the Annapurna region. This trekking route is suitable for all kinds of trekkers. You will be walking through beautiful rhododendron forests and green hills. The sunrise view from Poonhill is famous worldwide. The beauty of this trek in December is the clear blue sky and the wonderful views. The panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machchapucchre, and Dhaulagiri are simply breathtaking. From Pokhara, you will be driving to Ulleri, where your trekking starts. This trek can easily be completed in 2-3 days. People with limited time can trek in this region and witness amazing mountain scenery. Here are a few information on this trek:

  • Trek’s Duration: 2-3 days
  • Maximum Elevation: 3210 meters
  • Location: Annapurna Region, Kaski District, Nepal
  • Starting & Ending Point: Pokhara
  • Trek Difficulty: Easy

Also Read: A Short Trek With Breathtaking Views: Dhampus Sarangkot Trek