Do you believe when we say Everest is for all seasons, just like all of Nepal is? While spring and autumn are coveted as the best seasons to do, the Everest Base Camp Trek during summer/monsoon is totally worth the go. No weather is bad weather in the mountains. You might find it likely odd. But you won’t deny it when it comes from an explorer, will you?
As quoted by Sir Ranulph, a British explorer, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing” trekking the Everest region during summer is an utter example of it. The summer beauties in the Everest region get absolutely exceptional. You wouldn’t have a clue this rugged terrain could get so verdant until you witness it for yourself. And to witness this sight - equivalent to nature’s magic - you have to make it to the trek in summer. While Lukla flight cancellations and delays might test the best of your patience, on the other side, the entire Khumbu will bloom vibrant to address your presence in this season.
The month of June marks the arrival of the monsoon in Nepal and reaches its peak in July until bidding a farewell for the year in August. These months are considered as off-season in a commerce point of view. But, based on the trekking experience, this season has its own charms comes second to none. If comfort is placed at rock-bottom, Everest Base Camp Trek during monsoon is so much more than meets the eye. In fact, you even don’t have to put your comfort at stake for that matter. Provided Everest region is merged in the Trans Himalayan region, it is far less affected by the monsoon. The trails are not the driest, but still easy to walk. If you are picturing a slushy-muddy trail, you are totally wrong there. And for the view, don’t expect shiny peaks to look at you the whole time. But as the cloud clears, the mountains shall unveil for you like never before.
If Everest calls you in what is no more an odd season and never was, you should definitely go for it. Here are the reasons why you should do the Everest Base Camp Trek during summer/monsoon:
Tranquil Trails
The Everest region doesn’t see as many trekkers in summer as it does during spring and autumn. Because there is a stigma around the so-called bad weather conditions during this season, not many people prefer to trek in this season. So, you will have the trails all to yourself. If you are wondering whether the trails would be muddy, then don’t get worried. The trails will only be wet because of the rock formation.
And for the view, it’s absolutely not as bad as people fear. The mountains will frequently surprise you with a peek from behind the clouds. This sight comes second to none of the clear-cut panorama. Furthermore, you will have the freedom to enjoy the best hospitality at the best of the guesthouses. No rush and no big fuss. The serenity is a godsend along with the season.
The Verdant Landscape
In summer, the alpine vegetation is at its best in the Khumbu region. The otherwise barren-rugged hillsides get enveloped in viridescent vegetation during this time of the year. The vibrant blooming of the rhododendrons paints the forests into a piece of art, somewhere bright white, somewhere pastel pink and somewhere deep red. The chirping of birds and nibbling of yaks in the turf meadows are exciting. Your heart will get happy at the sight of happy yaks getting to feed on the rich fresh pastures. Despite the lower concentration of oxygen at altitudes, the air will feel fresh and the surroundings rejuvenating.
Fine Temperature
The best part about trekking in the monsoon is that you will have a fine temperature. The daytime temperature does not exceed 25 degrees even when the sun is up. And at altitudes above 4000 meters, the morning/night temperature will drop to as low as negative 10 degrees. Usually, lower altitudes below 3,500 meters receive drizzle for the rainfall. And it occasionally rains above 4000 meters. Definitely not like the monsoon in your head, is it? Perks of the Trans Himalaya!
Stunning Sights of the Himalayas
Although monsoon clouds subdue the horizon for most of the time, it only takes one wind blow for the clouds to clear out, revealing majestic mountains. The view of the mountains amidst the patches of clouds is surreal indeed. Usually, the mornings remain clear, and you have higher chances of admiring the sunrise in the mountains. Even if the day gets gloomy, you will still have an amazing hiking experience.
As amazing as monsoon trekking is, there are certain things you need to be cautious about. Lukla flights tend to get delayed and canceled frequently during monsoons. So, having a few buffer days in your trip schedule is a must. Well, the weather is busy the way it should be. Take a few simple cautions and the monsoon trek is totally worth it.
