Trekking in Nepal in December: Quiet Trails, Snowy Peaks, and Winter Charm

So you’re thinking about trekking in December? While most people are sipping cocoa and scrolling through holiday sales, you could be walking through frosted Himalayan valleys, sipping butter tea, and waking up to sunrise on snow-dusted peaks.

Let’s bust the myth right here: December trekking in Nepal isn’t off-limits. In fact, for the right kind of trekker, it’s magical. The skies are still clear, the trails are nearly empty, and the mountains? They look like they’ve been dressed for a winter photo shoot.

What’s the Weather Like in December?

December marks the beginning of winter in Nepal, but it’s not brutal—at least not in lower elevations. While nights can be frigid, the days are sunny, dry, and crisp. Snow begins to settle on the high passes, but many treks remain accessible if you’re prepared.

Why Trek in Nepal in December?

• Clear skies and stunning views continue from autumn

• No crowds – perfect if you like solitude and tea house fires

• Easy room availability (and better prices)

• Great time for lower and mid-altitude treks

• Fewer delays at Lukla compared to wetter months

Best Treks for December

December rewards those who go a little off the beaten track or stay below 4,000m. The higher you go, the colder and more snow-prone it becomes. That said, some big names still work beautifully with the right prep.

✅ Everest Base Camp (EBC)

• Still doable in early December, especially the standard route

• Cold, but breathtakingly quiet and peaceful

• Tea houses remain open until late December

• Fewer chances of flight delays than in spring/monsoon

Pro tip: Bring a four-season sleeping bag and thermal liners.

✅ Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

• A wonderful winter choice

• Moderate altitude means snow rarely blocks the route

• Stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare

✅ Ghorepani Poon Hill

• One of the best winter treks

• Short, scenic, and very doable with light winter gear

• Bonus: Sunrise from Poon Hill in December is unbelievably dramatic

✅ Langtang Valley

• Often overlooked but fantastic in winter

• Snow adds charm without making the trail too dangerous

• Experience Tamang culture without high-altitude risks

✅ Lower Mustang & Jomsom

• A great dry-region option for winter

• Epic landscapes with Tibetan Buddhist culture

• Less snow compared to Annapurna or Everest

Treks to Avoid (Unless You’re Hardcore)

• Manaslu Circuit – Snow can close Larke Pass early in the month

• Annapurna Circuit (full) – Thorong La Pass is risky post-November

• High passes like Cho La or Renjo La – Usually closed or dangerous in December

What to Pack for December Trekking

Pack like you’re heading to a mountain village wedding: smart, warm, and layered.

Winter Essentials:

• Down jacket (heavyweight)

• -15°C sleeping bag

• Thermal base layers (tops and bottoms)

• Microspikes (for icy patches)

• Insulated gloves, wool hat, and neck gaiter

• UV sunglasses (winter glare is real!)

• Moisturizer and lip balm (air is dry and brutal on skin)

• Power bank (solar may not be reliable in winter)

What’s It Like on the Trails?

• Quiet: You might not see another trekker for hours

• Chilly: Especially mornings and evenings

• Magical: The snow, the silence, and the stillness hit different

• Social: With fewer trekkers, you actually get to know people

You’ll often find yourself sharing the dining hall heater with a few fellow adventurers, sipping tea and trading stories. This is trekking intimacy at its finest.

Can Beginners Trek in December?

Absolutely, with the right trek and gear:

• Choose low to moderate-altitude treks like Poon Hill, ABC, or Langtang

• Avoid high passes unless you’re experienced and fully equipped

• Hire a guide or porter – they make winter trekking safer and more comfortable

• Don’t rush your itinerary – shorter days mean shorter trekking hours

After Your Trek: December Chill Down South

If you’re freezing by the end of your trek (spoiler alert: you will be), head to Chitwan or Pokhara:

• Chitwan National Park: Sunny jungle safaris, warm weather, and rhinos

• Pokhara: Lakeside cafés, massage therapy, and spa time

Pro tip: Celebrate the holidays or New Year in Pokhara. Lakeside is festive and fun.

Final TrekHeaven Thoughts

Trekking in December is for those who don’t mind the cold in exchange for quiet magic. You’ll walk on empty trails, stay in cozy tea houses, and witness mountains that feel like they’re yours alone.

So, pack that extra layer, say goodbye to crowds, and step into the Himalayas in their most peaceful form.

👉 Plan your December adventure with TrekHeaven

Because winter in Nepal isn’t just a season—it’s a serene, snow-kissed secret waiting to be discovered.