April is one of the two most popular months. Days are warmer than in March, the rhododendron forests flower on the lower trail, and base camp is full of expedition tents. Book flights and rooms early.
Weather
Daytime is pleasant on the lower trail, and settled weather is typical, though afternoon cloud becomes more common as the month goes on. Nights at height are still below freezing. See temperature by month and altitude.
Views and scenery
The rhododendrons are usually at their best in April. Distant views can soften with haze later in the month, so mornings give the clearest mountains.
Base camp atmosphere
Expedition teams are at Everest base camp in April and May, so the tent village is active. Trekkers walk to the camp area but do not enter the climbing camps.
Crowds and flights
Trails, lodges and Lukla flights are busy. Reserve early, expect shared dining rooms and keep a spare day. See buffer days.
What to pack
Layers for warm days and cold nights, sun protection and a sleeping bag suited to freezing nights.
Rhododendrons and colour
April is the month when the lower forests turn red, pink and white. The best colour is usually between Lukla and Namche and again on the climb to Tengboche. It is also a month of long, warm days in the valleys, so you can walk in a light shirt in the morning before layering up as clouds roll in.
Expedition season
April is the start of the Everest climbing season. Base camp fills with tents, yaks carry loads and helicopters ferry supplies. Trekkers can watch the preparations from a respectful distance. Expect it to be busier on the trail and in the lodges, so book flights and rooms early and keep a flexible schedule.
Who April suits
Trekkers who want flowers, warmer days and a lively atmosphere, and who do not mind the crowds.
Rhododendron season
In April the lower valleys bloom with rhododendron, adding colour to the trek. Days are warm, nights chilly and views often clear in the morning.
Why April is a good compromise
April offers warmer days than autumn, long daylight and rhododendron forests in bloom below Namche. Afternoons often bring cloud, so aim to reach viewpoints in the morning. The Everest climbing season starts this month, and you will see expedition teams moving between camps near Base Camp.
Weather and gear
Expect snow showers at higher stages and wetter conditions lower down than in autumn. Pack a waterproof shell, a warm layer and sun protection. Nights at altitude are still cold, though less severe than in November.
What our guests say
Excerpts from trekker reviews on our reviews page.
“Everything was handled professionally and with great attention to detail, from permits to on-ground support.”
