Best Trek in December in Nepal

Overview

December often gets overlooked for trekking in Nepal, but it’s quietly one of the best months for the adventure if you are prepared for winter conditions. By early December, the monsoon is fully behind you. As such, you are left with stable, dry weather and almost no rainfall. Valleys see daytime temperatures of 5°C to 15°C. Meanwhile, the temperatures at higher elevations drop to -5°C to -10°C at night. Snow dusts the peaks and occasionally the trails, but it rarely blocks some of the main trekking routes.

Furthermore, crowd levels fall sharply in December. With fewer trekkers than in October, you can enjoy the journey amidst quieter paths. The teahouses are more easily available. And the nightly rates are also low.

Views are exceptionally clear, with the Everest, Annapurna and Langtang ranges standing out against deep blue skies. Kathmandu and Pokhara add a festive touch with Christmas lights and New Year celebrations.

The trade-offs are shorter daylight, as the sunset is around 5 PM and colder nights. So, proper gear is essential. Among Nepal’s many options, the 10 treks highlighted here — from short valley walks to classic base camp routes — are reliable and rewarding in December.

Whether you are new to trekking or looking for solitude, the journey to the best trek in December in Nepal is waiting. Just pack layers and plan smart and you are ready to explore the wonders of the Annapurna and Everest Base Camp treks in December. The Everest Panorama Trek is a more accessible option. Other best Nepal treks in December are — Mardi Himal Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek, Mohare Danda Trek, 3 Days Kathmandu Valley Trek, Khopra Danda Trek and the Pikey Peak Trek. Choose the one that best suits you and set off for the winter adventure.

Highlights

December may be winter, but it’s the secret season for flawless Himalayan panoramas
Enjoy the peace of open paths, easy teahouse stays, and friendlier prices due to fewer crowds
Stable, dry weather as the monsoon’s long gone; days are sunny, trails are dusted with snow, and visibility is unmatched
Annapurna Base Camp — step into a snowy amphitheater surrounded by 8,000-meter peaks
Everest Base Camp — it’s the classic trek in winter mode, featuring frozen lakes, glowing peaks and almost no traffic
Everest Panorama — a shorter, gentler way to meet Everest face-to-face and perfect for a one-week adventure
Mardi Himal — walk ridge lines so close to Machhapuchhre with quiet trails all to yourself
Langtang Valley — trek through Tamang villages and glaciers wrapped in soft snow and mountain silence
Mohare and Khopra Danda — community-run routes where warm fires, Magar smiles and wide horizons await
Pikey Peak — Hillary’s favorite Everest viewpoint still delivers, and witness sunrise over snowfields and that calm, endless sky
Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk — a quick escape with golden sunrises over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, no heavy gear needed
Kathmandu Valley trek — easy winter hikes through heritage towns, forest ridges, and timeless temples near the city

Book Your Trek with Us

Ready to tackle the best treks in Nepal in December? Come trek with Radiant Treks. Our local guides grew up on these trails — they will keep you steady on icy patches and make sure you are sipping hot tea by the fire each night.

We sort out permits, porters, guides and comfy teahouses so you can just walk, breathe and soak it all in.

Shoot us an email at info@radianttreks.com or WhatsApp Gokarna at +977-9849294113.

Check us out at www.radianttreks.com for full details.

Let’s make those crisp Himalayan mornings your next favorite memory — grab your spot before they are gone!

Best December Treks

Challenges and Difficulties of ABC Trek during January

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

If you have dreamt of standing in a natural amphitheater surrounded by 7,000–8,000-meter giants, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) is your December ticket. At 4,130 meters, the sanctuary feels otherworldly under a dusting of snow. Think crisp -4 °C days and -10 °C nights that make the stars pop. Early December keeps things manageable and light snow adds sparkle without blocking the trail.

Radiant Treks offers Annapurna Base Camp treks of 13 days, 10 days as well and 6 days. The trek begins with a short drive to Nayapul from Pokhara. You may take a flight or drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Then begins an easy walk to Tikhedhunga.

In the following days, you climb through Gurung villages and rhododendron forests to Sinuwa. The route then reaches Deurali, acclimatizing with hot lemon tea. The push to the Annapurna Base Camp is worth the trek — sunrise over Annapurna I, Hiunchuli and Machapuchhre is pure magic. Descent includes a well-earned soak in Jhinu Danda’s natural hot springs.

There are fewer trekkers on the trekking trail in December. As a result, the teahouses are quieter and you get a better chance to chat with locals. As there is light snow dust, microspikes help on icy stone steps. And a -10 °C sleeping bag is non-negotiable.

ABC trek is the iconic Nepal trek, just wrapped in winter solitude.

Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp trek is the bucket-list classic, and December wraps it in raw, quiet beauty. At 5,364 meters, the camp sits under a blanket of snow; Gorak Shep nights dip to -17 °C, with daytime highs around -10 °C and biting winds. Early December keeps the route open — clear skies, fewer crowds and the Khumbu Icefall glowing under moonlight.

Radiant Treks offers different packages for this journey, considered one of the best Nepal treks in December. You may choose our 12-day itinerary. Or opt for the 15-day-long trek. There are packages of 7 days and 10 days, too. And the Luxury Everest Base Camp trek can be another option for the December trek.

All these treks begin with the roller-coaster Lukla flight. From there, you head to Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and Sherpa coffee. By the time you reach Dingboche, the air gets thinner and the cold is extreme. In the following days, the journey takes you to Lobuche and then Gorak Shep before arriving at the Everest Base Camp. The pre-dawn climb to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) delivers that iconic Everest sunrise — worth every frozen toe. Descent feels faster with gravity on your side.

In this December journey, you will need crampons for icy moraine, a -15 °C sleeping bag and extra buffer days for Lukla’s unpredictable weather.

December in Everest Base Camp? It’s solitude, challenge and the world’s highest selfie spot — without the October crowd.

everest 3 pass beautiful view of the himalayas from gokyo ri

Everest Panorama Trek

Want Everest without the full Everest Base Camp trip? The Everest Panorama Trek in December delivers the goods in 7 days. You top out at Tengboche (3,860 m), sipping tea with 360° views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam.

The route starts with the classic Lukla flight. After landing at this thrilling airport, you hike to Phakding and climb to Namche Bazaar for bakery croissants and acclimatization. Then, it is the hike through the forest trail that leads to Tengboche Monastery — monks chanting at dusk is pure magic to witness. Finally, you return via Namche and then to Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu.

It is one of the popular winter treks in Nepal that offers a unique adventure experience. And December keeps it mild with temperatures going down to -5 °C at night. Expect light snow on pines. Otherwise, trails are mostly clear.

Teahouses stay open in December and and you will likely have the monastery viewpoint to yourself. But do not forget to pack a -10 °C rated sleeping bag and warm layers.

It’s the best trek in December in Nepal for families, photographers, or anyone craving Everest vibes without the nearly 2-week-long trek.

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is Nepal’s rising star, and December turns it into a fairy-tale escape. You will walk a knife-edge ridge to 4,500 meters with Machhapuchhre’s peak so close you could almost touch it. It’s short, scenic and perfectly doable in 5 days, that too amidst December weather.

The itinerary kicks off in Kathmandu — you drive to Pokhara, followed by a drive to Dhampus on the next day. Then hike to Forest Camp through oak and rhododendron forests and push to Badal Danda. Finally, you make a final push to the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). The view of sunrise over Annapurna South is heavenly. Then descend to Siding village via Badal Danda and jeep to Pokhara.

In this journey, December brings temperatures ranging between 1°C and 14°C. The nights may be as cold as -8°C. In addition, there can be a light snow blanket and this makes the forest glow.

Meanwhile, trails are quiet and teahouses cozy in December. And the ridge feels like your private balcony. Pack microspikes for navigating icy sections and carry a -10°C rated sleeping bag to brave December weather.

It is another option for your December trek in Nepal if you want a quick adventure sans crowds.

Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley trek feels like stepping into a living postcard, and December gives it a hushed, snowy soul. You will wander through the Tamang villages rebuilt after the 2015 earthquake. The journey also takes you to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) and Tsergo Ri for glacier views that steal your breath.

Radiant Treks has an 8-day itinerary as well as a 10-day itinerary for the Langtang Valley trek in December. It starts with a jeep travel from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. Then, continue the journey with a forest walk to Lama Hotel, climb to Langtang Village and then reach Kyanjin Gompa. Then, opt for a dawn hike to Tsergo Ri (5,000 m) and descend afterwards. Finally, you drop back through snowy Bamboo to Syabrubesi.

It is an example of the best trek in December in Nepal. It is suitable to be in the Langtang region in this winter month as December has tolerable daytime temperatures between -5°C and 10°C. However, the nights are cold with -15°C temperatures. Winter-rated sleeping bag and clothing in layers are your best friends in this situation.

Meanwhile, the December trails here are dusted with white — perfect for crisp photos and zero crowds. Likewise, teahouses stay open, easing your journey. But make sure to carry microspikes to walk the trail safely.

It’s one of the best treks in Nepal in December for culture, quiet and a heartwarming Himalayan journey.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is Nepal’s perfect short-and-sweet winter getaway. In just 7 days, you will stand at 3,210 meters watching the sun paint Dhaulagiri and Annapurna gold. And no epic fitness is required for accomplishing this journey.

The route starts with a quick drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Nayapul. It then follows a gentle walk to Tikhedhunga before hiking via the famous stone stairs to Ghorepani — tough but doable. The pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill is necessary for that legendary sunrise. After that, the route descends to Tadapani. Next, loop through Gurung villages to Ghandruk and then jeep back to Pokhara.

You need not worry about trekking in December as the journey is comfortable in this first month of winter. Temperatures are between 8°C and 15°C during the day and up to -5°C at night. There may be a light snowcap on Poon Hill.

The trails of this trek are also quiet in December. In addition, homestays are uncrowded, and the Gurung welcome is warm.

Pack a winter-rated sleeping bag. And start the trek early every day to beat the chill.

This winter trek in Nepal is best for families, photographers, or anyone craving a quick Himalayan sunrise without breaking the bank.

Mohare Danda Trek

The Mohare Danda Trek offers a quieter and more peaceful alternative to the well-trodden Annapurna trails. You will climb to 3,300 meters along community-run ridges, waking to 360° views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. And in the December trek, you can do so without another trekker in sight.

The 4-day itinerary of Radiant Treks starts in Pokhara, followed by a drive to Patichaur. Then, it is time for an easy walk to Lespar. Along the trail, you meet the Magar families who built the eco-lodges before arriving at Mohare Danda. You can view the sunset from the viewpoint tower here. Ultimately, you descend to Ghandruk via Tadapani before driving back to Pokhara.

This short and low-altitude journey, without doubt, is one of the best Nepal treks in December. That is because this month features peaceful snow flurries in the region. Temperatures range between 0°C and 10°C during the days. At night, they dip to -8°C. The trails stay open and teahouses glow with solar lights and wood stoves. Similarly, locals share homemade alcohol by the fire.

You should pack microspikes and a -10 °C sleeping bag to deal with winter challenges.

Nonetheless, this winter trek is for sustainable travel and solitude, and it offers a feeling like you have discovered a secret Nepal.

Kathmandu Valley Trek

The Kathmandu Valley trek of 3 days is your low-key winter escape. There are no altitude headaches to deal with. You just hike to enjoy the heritage and the Himalayan glimpses. You will loop through ancient towns and hilltops, all under 2,000 meters, in this trek. Nonetheless, the snow-capped Ganesh Himal can be seen teasing you on the horizon.

The plan of Radiant Treks keeps it simple — start with a drive to Shivapuri Forest, Sundarijal and then hike up to Chisapani. From there, you trek to Nagarkot for the sunrise view. Finally, you trek down to Changunarayan Temple and drive back to Kathmandu.

December is one of the best times for this short trek. The temperatures are mild — they are between 10°C and 20°C days. The mornings are cold, but they turn into clear views later in the days. There is no snow on the trails. Look forward to just the festive lights in the temples and New Year’s buzz in Thamel. Pack a light jacket and comfortable shoes.

It is the best trek in December in Nepal for culture lovers, families, or anyone wanting a soft landing into the Himalayas before flying home.

Khopra Danda Trek

The Khopra Danda trek in December takes you off the main Annapurna circuit to a 3,660-meter ridge where the only sounds are wind and your boots on snow. It’s community-run, authentic and December makes it feel like your own private Himalaya.

Our trek of 8 days starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Ghandruk. From there, you trek to Tadapani to Bayeli Kharka before arriving at Khopra Danda. From here, you can see serene views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli and Dhaulagiri. And they shine under the clear skies of December. Meanwhile, rhododendron and pine forests make every step unforgettable.

Next, opt for a dawn hike to Khayer Lake (4,600 m), and then descend. Final days loop back via Ghorepani.

You will hike amid snowy solitude in December when temperatures during the day are between 0°C to 8°C and nights can go down to -5°C. The trails are clear and the lodges run on solar panels. Like every other December trek, pack microspikes and a sleeping bag for winter.

You can call it one of the best treks in December in Nepal because it offers you an opportunity to experience raw Magar hospitality, uncrowded ridges and waking up inside a 360° snow panorama.

Pikey Peak Trek

The Pikey Peak trek offers the Everest view that Sir Edmund Hillary once said was his favorite in all of Nepal — and December’s clear skies prove him right. At 4,065 meters, you’ll stand above the clouds with Everest, Lhotse and Makalu in a silent, snowy frame — no base camp crowds, just pure altitude reward.

Our 7-day itinerary skips Lukla’s chaos. So, you drive from Kathmandu to Dhap Bazaar (2,200 m) and then climb through rhododendron forests to Pikey Peak Base (3,700 m). The pre-dawn hike to the summit viewpoint — sunrise turns the world gold. You may also explore nearby ridges or descend to Junbesi’s Sherpa villages before descending to Salleri and driving back to Kathmandu.

December hits temperatures up to -7°C at the peak. They are between 5°C to 10°C lower down, with light snow making the pass sparkle. Trails stay open, teahouses warm with fresh apple pie. Pack microspikes and a -10°C rated sleeping bag. It’s the best trek in December in Nepal for an uncrowded Everest fix, Hillary history and that sunrise high that chases away any winter chill.

Choosing Your December Trek: A Quick Comparison

Figuring out which is the best trek in December in Nepal doesn’t have to be a headache. It is all about what you are after, from easy strolls to hardcore adventures.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is of a moderate difficulty level. And December’s snowy amphitheater views of the Annapurna massif are breathtaking. It is ideal for scenery junkies wanting that immersive punch.

Langtang Valley keeps it moderate too, with cultural vibes in Tamang villages that are dusted in snow. This trek is great for beginners who want nature and local life in one place.

For the big one, the Everest Base Camp trek is strenuous. And it offers views of sharp peaks without summer dust. The winter trek to this destination is perfect for thrill-seekers chasing icons. And the Everest Panorama trek could be a less demanding option.

Likewise, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is an easy journey, which offers golden sunrises over Dhaulagiri. And even in December, it is good for families or those seeking quick getaways.

The Mohare Danda trek can be termed easy-to-moderate and offers community homestays and budget-friendly valley views.

Meanwhile, the trek in Kathmandu Valley is super easy in December and brings you a mix of temples and mild hikes near the city. It is the best winter trek in Nepal for trekkers with limited time.

The moderate trek of Pikey Peak delivers epic Everest sights off the beaten path with starry nights. If you are a view hunter, this is for you.

Mardi Himal’s trek in December features ridge walks and close-up views of Machhapuchhre in serene forests. It can be ideal for those craving something less crowded. The Khopra Danda trek also offers that ridge experience, along with Magar hospitality.

FAQs

Is December a good month for trekking in Nepal?

Yes — December offers clear skies, fewer crowds, and peaceful trails. It’s one of the most rewarding times to see the Himalayas if you are ready for cold nights.

What are the best Nepal treks in December?

Top picks include treks of Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley, Mardi Himal, Pikey Peak, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Khopra Danda, Mohare Danda, along with the trek of Kathmandu Valley. Each offers clear views and fewer trekkers.

What is the temperature like in December in Nepal?

Days range from 10°C to 15°C in lower valleys, while nights at higher altitudes can drop to –10°C or colder. Packing the right winter gear makes all the difference.

Is it safe to trek to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna in December?

Yes, both trails are open and safe if you trek with a guide. Snow may appear on higher trails. However, the trek routes are maintained and less crowded in the first month of winter.