The best December treks are the lower, sunny routes: Poon Hill, Mardi Himal in good conditions, and short Everest panorama itineraries. Skies are usually dry and clear, but nights are cold and snow can close high trails. Annapurna Base Camp and Langtang need caution, and very high passes are best left for other months. Conditions vary year to year.
Why December works for trekking
December sits in the dry winter season. Rain is rare, haze is often low, and mountain views can be sharp in the early morning. The trade-off is cold. Days at lower altitude can feel pleasant in the sun, while nights and early mornings drop well below freezing as you climb.
Daylight is also shorter, so walking days start early and finish by mid afternoon. Teahouses are open on the popular routes, though some higher lodges close or run with limited food and heating.
This is general seasonal information. Weather is not predictable, so build a spare day into any plan and keep your return flights flexible.
Lower routes that suit the month
Poon Hill is the easiest December choice. Its highest point is about 3,210 m, so cold is manageable with a good down jacket, and sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges are a highlight when the sky is clear. Our standard Poon Hill trek runs 9 days.
Mardi Himal is also popular in winter, but its upper ridge can hold snow, so the high camp section depends on conditions. Our Mardi Himal trek is 11 days, and your guide may shorten the final climb if the trail is icy.
Treks that stay low, such as village loops near Pokhara, give the most reliable walking in cold weather.
High routes that need caution
Annapurna Base Camp sits at about 4,130 m. In December the upper stretch can be snowy, and avalanche risk on the approach is taken seriously by guides and lodge owners. Some years it is fine, in others the last section is closed or slow.
Langtang is cold in December, and the upper valley around Kyanjin can have snow and frozen water. It is possible with proper kit and flexible days, but it suits experienced cold weather trekkers better than first timers.
The Annapurna Circuit crossing of Thorong La and the Three Passes route are generally poor choices this month, since heavy snow can block the high passes. If you want a high trek, ask us about the current outlook first.
Everest region in December
Everest Base Camp is possible in December, and many trekkers enjoy the quiet trails. Expect very cold nights, frozen taps and cold dining rooms in the upper villages. Flights to Lukla can be delayed by wind or cloud, so the 14 day itinerary needs a buffer.
If you are unsure about the full trek, a shorter Everest panorama itinerary around Namche Bazaar and nearby viewpoints gives you the mountain scenery with less time at height and less exposure to the coldest nights.
Whatever you choose, carry a four season sleeping bag or arrange a warm one, plus thermal layers, gloves and a hat. Altitude illness can occur in any season. If symptoms such as headache, nausea or unusual tiredness appear, do not climb higher, and descend if they worsen.
Planning checklist for a winter trek
A few habits make cold season trekking easier:
- Book flights and transfers with a spare day, since weather delays happen
- Pack layers you can add and remove rather than one very heavy jacket
- Drink warm fluids often, as cold hides thirst
- Start walking early to use the warmest hours
- Ask your guide each morning about trail and snow conditions
If you are travelling from India, carry valid photo ID such as a passport or voter ID. Currency rules for Indian notes in Nepal can change, so check the current position before you travel.
Common questions
Is December a good month to trek in Nepal?
Yes, for lower and mid altitude routes. Skies are usually clear and dry, but it is cold, especially at night. High passes and upper valleys can have snow, so choose your route and spare days with that in mind.
Can I do Annapurna Base Camp in December?
Sometimes. Snow and avalanche risk on the upper approach can slow or stop the trek, and conditions vary each year. Allow extra days, follow your guide on route decisions, and be ready to turn back.
Which December trek is best for beginners?
Poon Hill is the usual pick. It stays around 3,210 m at its highest, has comfortable villages along the way, and gives good sunrise views. Pack warm layers because mornings are cold.
