Everest Base Camp Trek in September

Everest Base Camp Trek in September

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is one of the best experiences you can have, as it takes you on an unforgettable journey amidst the iconic mountain peaks, including Mt. Everest.

It is crucial to choose an ideal time to trek to EBC because it is one of the most difficult trekking routes in Nepal. For this reason, the Everest Base Camp Trek in September is one of the best trekking months.

The best seasons to have the Everest Base Camp Trek are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May).

As September falls in the autumn season, it offers stunning mountain views with clear skies and a warm daytime, making it perfect for trekking in the Himalayas.

The weather in the Himalayas is often unpredictable, so it is important to check the weather before embarking on the trek.

But in September, you can get more stable weather, making it perfect for trekking without facing difficulties because of the weather.

In this blog, you will get all the information on the Everest Base Camp Trek in September that will help make your trek even more exciting.

Weather During Everest Base Camp Trek in September

The autumn season in Nepal starts in September, which means you can witness the stunning visuals of mountain peaks with clear skies.

The mild and warm weather of September welcomes every trekker passionate about trekking in the Himalayan landscapes of Nepal.

The weather during the Everest Base Camp Trek is different according to the altitudes, as the lower altitude has more stable weather than the higher altitude.

The trek to EBC generally starts in Kathmandu, which has sunny days with hot weather during the day.

Similarly, as we gain altitude, the temperature increases gradually, making the weather cooler. Whereas in places like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche, the weather is almost similar.

As we reach the base camp, the weather is warmer, as the days are sunny but the nights are colder, and it gets up to minus 5 degrees Celsius.

Here is the weather and temperature chart at different altitudes during the Everest Base Camp Trek in September.

Remember that weather at higher altitudes changes quickly, so it is important to be well prepared if you are going for Everest Base Camp trekking.

For a better experience, you need to be well aware of the weather. And if you are new to Nepal, then it will be ideal to book with a trekking agency that is more familiar with the weather in Nepal.

Benefits of Trekking to Everest Base Camp in September

September is one of the months of the autumn season, which is considered the best season for trekking on the landscapes of Nepal.

The autumn season comes after the monsoon season, so you can expect a dust-free environment, less precipitation, and clear weather that makes hiking ideal.

As September is the first month of the autumn season, you can have the best time with mild temperatures, stable weather, and clear skies.

With the end of monsoon season, you can have clear trails, and the weather is generally sunny and mild. More than that, you can expect fewer crowds on the trails, as October and November are the peak seasons.

So, why the Everest Base Camp Trek in September? With these perks of September, you will get ideas on why trekking to Everest Base Camp in September is more advantageous.

Clear and Stable Weather

The September month in Nepal comes with clear and stable weather, making it perfect for trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal.

You can expect clear and stable weather at almost all the altitudes you will cover during the trek. But sometimes the weather can change frequently at higher altitudes.

The monsoon season typically ends in late August or early September, so the weather in September is generally clear and sunny.

In September, the skies are clear, offering spectacular views of the mountain ranges, including the iconic Mt. Everest (8848.86m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,855m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), and many other surrounding peaks.

The fewer clouds, with mild and sunny days, make it perfect to have the scenic trek through the popular stops like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, etc. of the EBC trek.

Scenic Flight and Amazing Views

As September has clear, mild, and sunny weather, you can enjoy the beautiful scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

Also, in Nepal, you can take a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu only in September. Whereas in October and November, you are required to drive to Ramechhap from Kathmandu and take a flight from there.

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla generally takes 45-50 minutes. During this time, you can enjoy the stunning aerial views of the lands of Nepal, major cities, and lush forests.

The flight takes you to Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which is one of the most dangerous airports in Nepal. The airport in Lukla welcomes you with stunning views of mountain ranges and Sherpa civilization.

A scenic flight with views of lush hills and mountain ranges above is definitely the coolest kick-off to the journey.

Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu Region of Nepal, is the major hub where you can start your trekking journey, and it has stunning views of the mountain ranges.

Throughout the trek, you will experience several stunning views with glimpses of Mt. Everest and other towering peaks. The beautiful alpine forest and rhododendron flowers add beauty to nature, which you can encounter during the trek in September.

Less Crowd

During the trek to Everest Base Camp in September, you can expect less crowds because October and November are considered the peak seasons.

With fewer crowds on the trails, you can have a better experience hiking in the Himalayas. Also, you can enjoy the views from the several viewpoints without any disturbance.

As accommodation options are less when you continue covering up the higher altitudes, it is less likely to get a better option if the crowd is higher.

You can choose the best teahouses available with better services freely. In addition, you can have better access to food, water, etc. throughout the trek.

With more space on the trails and teahouses, you can enjoy trekking better with your companions.

Festive Season

September is one of the festive seasons in Nepal, where you can see people celebrating different festivals, including Indra Jatra, Teej, and Dashain.

Dashain, as in the major festival of Nepal, falls between September and October. After days of trekking, you can even participate in the festivals as the local people are welcoming.

Indra Jatra is widely celebrated in the Kathmandu Valley.

Teej, on the other hand, is one of the major festivals celebrated by the women of Nepal.

This month, you can trek to Everest Base Camp, encountering a festive environment in different stopping locations.

Experience the Local Culture of Sherpa Community

The Sherpa Community is the largest civilization in the Khumbu Region of Nepal. During the journey, you will pass through several Sherpa villages that will provide you with opportunities to learn about the unique culture of the locals.

The lifestyle of the Sherpa community is different from that of the people living in the hilly and terai parts. Because of this uniqueness, the culture is more fascinating to travelers.

The behavior of the people is welcoming, and the hospitality they offer is top-notch.

The locals will treat you better when you are trekking or staying at the teahouse.

The Sherpa community follows the Buddhist religion, which has different beliefs and cultures, making it unique and fascinating.

Also, on the trails, you will get to see several monasteries where you can learn more about the Buddhist religion with local Sherpas.

The fewer crowds in this month also provides more chances to interact with the Sherpas and monks of monasteries.

Lush Greenery with Picturesque Villages

On your trek to Everest Base Camp in September, you will experience the lush greenery of the forests. The monsoon rain rejuvenates the landscape, turning the Everest region into a lush and vibrant green paradise.

With the picturesque villages, the scenes during the trek are even more exciting.

Alpine forest is common throughout the trek, and you have to trek through dense forest. With the lush green views, you will even enjoy more hiking through the forest.

The valleys and hillsides are covered with colorful wildflowers, making the scenery even more beautiful and photogenic.

Major Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek in September

• Clear, mild, and comfortable weather for trekking
• Stunning sceneries with lush greenery and picturesque Sherpa villages
• Warm and sunny days, perfect for hiking in Himalayas
• Clear skies offer spectacular views of mountain ranges and several towering peaks
• Fewer crowds, making the trail, teahouses and services more accessible
• Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla
• Opportunity to witness several festivals, including Dashain, Indra Jatra, etc.
• Getting to know more about the Sherpa culture and traditions
• Stunning sunrises and sunsets from viewpoints without worrying about crowds

Everest Base Camp Trek in September Itinerary

For trekking to Everest Base Camp in September, you can have this itinerary that can provide you with better routes and better accommodation on the way.

• Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu (1,400m), Transfer to the Hotel and Pre-trek meeting in the evening
• Day 02: Scenic flight to Lukla (2,860m) from Kathmandu (45-50 minutes), Sightseeing around Lukla and Trekking to Phakding (2,610m) [Avg. Trekking Duration: 3-4hours]
• Day 03: Trekking to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) from Phakding and overnight stay at Namche Bazaar [Avg. Trekking Duration: 5-6hours]
• Day 04: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar, sightseeing around Namche Bazaar, shopping at the marketplace and hiking to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) [Avg. Trekking Duration: 2-3hours]
• Day 05: Trekking from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867m), visiting the Tengboche Monastery [Avg. Trekking Duration: 5-6hours]
• Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360m) Trek and overnight stay at Dingboche [Avg. Trekking Duration: 5-6hours]
• Day 07: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,490m) Trek, passing through Thokla Pass and overnight stay at Lobuche [Avg. Trekking Duration: 4-5hours]
• Day 08: Trekking to Gorak Shep (5,164m) from Lobuche [Trekking Duration: 2-3hours], keeping the belongings at teahouse, hiking to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and returning back to Gorak Shep [Trekking Duration: 2-3hours]
• Day 09: Early morning trek to Kala Patthar (5,644m) from Gorak Shep [Trekking Duration: 2-3hours], witnessing the beautiful sunrise from Kala Patthar and hiking to Pheriche (4,371m) [Trekking Duration: 5-6hours]
• Day 10: Trekking to Namche Bazaar from Pheriche, exploring Namche Bazaar and overnight stay at the teahouse [Avg. Trekking Duration: 6-7hours]
• Day 11: Tracing the way back to Lukla from Namche Bazaar and enjoying the last day of trekking in the Himalayas [Avg. Trekking Duration: 7-8hours]
• Day 12: Scenic Flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu [45-50 minutes flight]
• Day 13: Departure and Airport Drop

Everest Base Camp Trek in September Map

In September, you can trek to Everest Base Camp following this route, as shown in the map.

The route on the map takes you through several trekker hubs, including Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Phakding, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Pheriche.

Tips for Trekking to Everest Base Camp in September

If you are planning for the trek to Everest Base Camp in September, then here are some tips that will help you make your trek easier and more exciting.

• Book in advance: While September is less crowded than the peak seasons, it is still a good idea to book accommodation and flights in advance. Or, you can get the package from a trekking agency, which will manage for you.
• Permits: Get the necessary permits, including the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card, Sagarmatha National Park Permit, and Khumbu Pasal Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.
• Cash and Supplies: Keep enough cash (Nepalese rupees) as there are limitations on ATMs in higher altitude. It’s better to take snacks, energy bars and specialized gears from Kathmandu.
• Physical Fitness and Acclimation: Get involved in the physical fitness as it requires and average 5-6 hours of hiking every day. Acclimatization is important, so make sure you stay at higher elevations for no more than 300-500 meters per day.
• Hydration and Water Purification: Carry reusable water bottle and water purification tablets as you can find water in water resources. Water is expensive when you reach higher altitudes.
• Carry a light Bagpack: It is important to have a light backpack because you have to trek for hours, and with heavy loads, it will be difficult to walk on the landscapes of Himalayas.
• Altitude Sickness Prevention: As you reach higher altitudes, there are higher chances of getting altitude sickness. Decend immediately if you experience severe symptoms like nausea, dizziness, or severe headaches.
• Weather and Clothing: Get prepared for all kinds of weather. The weather in Everest region is mostly unpredictable, so it is better to be prepared early. Include warm clothes in your backpack, as nights in Everest region are colder and reach minus degree temperatures.

Everest Base Camp Trek in September Cost

The cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek in September is dependent on the services, accommodations, and days you plan to choose.

In general, the cost of trekking to EBC is about USD 1,290 to USD 1,500, depending on the trekking agency you choose.

If you are planning on trekking solo, then you need to hire a Government-liscensed guide who will assist you in your trek.

The government of Nepal has banned solo trekking in Nepal to minimize the risks trekkers can face while solo trekking.

You can check the cost of hiring a guide and porter at Blue Lake Adventure by visiting the link.

Packing List for EBC Trek in September

It is important to have the right gear and packing list if you are trekking to Everest Base Camp.

Better gear can assist you better throughout the journey.

Here, you can get information about the right gear you need to have so that you can have a better experience of trekking without going through difficulties due to a lack of proper gear.

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking base layers (long-sleeve tops and thermal bottoms)
• Insulating layers (fleece or down jackets)
• Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants
• Hiking pants and shorts
• Warm socks
• Hiking boots or shoes
• Beanie or hat
• Gloves
• Sunglasses
• Buff or neck gaiter

Gear

• Backpack (30-40 liters for daily essentials)
• Duffel bag or large backpack (for porter to carry your extra gear)
• Sleeping bag
• Trekking poles for added stability
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water bottle or hydration system (1-2 liters capacity)
• Water purification tablets
• Travel towel (quick-drying)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, etc.)
• Personal First aid kit, if any
• Sunscreen and Lip balm
• Travel wallet to keep important documents and cash

Electronics

• Camera and extra batteries or power bank
• Chargers and adapter (Nepal uses Type D and Type M sockets)
• Mobile Phone with Local SIM card

Miscellaneous

• Trekking permits and identification (passport, visa, and copies)
• Maps and guidebook (optional)
• Travel insurance
• Notebook and pen
• Snacks and energy-bars
• Enough Cash (Nepali rupees)

Which month is better for the Everest Base Camp Trek, September or October?

September and October both fall in the autumn season, so you can expect almost the same weather and temperature throughout the journey.

September, as the beginning of autumn, is less crowded than October, which comes after it.

You can have better views of the stunning mountain peaks in both months. If you are looking for a better experience throughout the trek, then you can consider September rather than October.

I would say September is the best month to have the Everest Base Camp Trek, as flights to Lukla are operated from Kathmandu. In October, you have to take a flight from Ramechhap airport.

October is the peak trekking season in Nepal, so the trails are way more crowded than September.

Although September offers a better time for trekking, there are high chances of getting unexpected rainfall compared to October.

October is best for better visibility, with clear skies that offer stunning views of mountain ranges.

Overall, you can have a better experience trekking to Everest Base Camp in September than October with fewer crowds on the trails, and you can also enjoy better accommodation and services.

Final Say

The Everest Base Camp Trek in September is one of the best trekking experiences you can have in Nepal.

If you plan to trek to EBC, we recommend you plan early so you don’t have to face difficulties in managing.

Trekking to Everest Base Camp can be strenuous if you haven’t trekked to the Himalayas before. Are you a beginner who hasn’t done any treks in Nepal? Here are the 8 best tips for beginners to trek to EBC.

In September, you can have the best time for trekking with better weather, temperature, and accommodation options.

Alternatively, if you are unable to trek in September, you can trek in October, November, or April too.

If you wish to trek in April, then read here about the Everest Base Camp Trek in April.

We wish you the best time trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal. Make sure you take care of yourself and follow the tips we provide in this blog.

THE END

Frequently Asked Questions

Is September a good time to trek to Everest Base Camp?

Ans: Yes, September is one of the best months to have a trek to Everest Base Camp. September offers warm and sunny weather, mild temperatures, and clear skies with better visibility of mountain ranges, including the iconic Mt. Evenerest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, etc.

Is there snow at Everest Base Camp in September?

Ans: Everest Base Camp has high chances of getting snowfalls in the winter season, but there are almost no chances in September as it falls in the autumn season.

What month is best for the Everest Base Camp trek?

Ans: September, October, and November of the autumn season and March, April, and May of the spring season are the best months for the Everest Base Camp Trek. In these months, you can expect clear skies offering stunning visuals of different towering peaks.

How cold is Everest Base Camp in September?

Ans: The average temperature in the Everest Base Camp during the day is about 6-7 degrees Celsius, and the temperature at night can go up to -3 degrees Celsius. So, yes, nights in EBC can be a bit colder. It is important to have proper gear and a sleeping bag to prevent a cold night at the base camp.

Can a beginner do Everest Base Camp?

Ans: For a beginner, the Everest Base Camp Trek can be strenuous. But, by following the best tips for Everest Base Camp Trekking, beginners can also do the trek. You need to have better fitness and be aware of the weather conditions before embarking on the journey.

Is it crowded during the Everest Base Camp Trek in September?

Ans: During the Everest Base Camp Trek in September, the trekkers crowd on the trails and teahouses is lower in comparison to peak months, October and November. With this, you can have a more peaceful experience trekking to EBC.

Do I need to book teahouses or lodges in advance in September?

Ans: While the accommodation in Everest Base Camp Trek in September is less crowded than the peak season, it is still good to book the teahouses and lodges in advance for additional preparation.