Everest Base Camp Trek in May: Weather, Tips and More

May is just a few weeks away from monsoon, which could last well into October. Compared to June, the weather in the Mount Everest area in May is a favorable month for trekking, as it is relatively warmer and clearer.

Despite the increase in thunderstorms, you will find the temperatures comfortable while trekking to Everest Base Camp in May. The cloud build-up typically starts in the afternoon. In Lukla (2,860 m) and Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the average temperatures in May vary from a maximum of 4°C to a minimum of -2°C. It gets much colder in Lobuche (4,950 m), where the mercury fluctuates between -2°C and -9°C.

For a monthly breakdown of temperature at EBC, check out our guide on the best time for a trek to Everest Base Camp.

There are many reasons why a Everest Base Camp trek in May is popular:

• Everest Marathon: The Everest Marathon is an annual marathon held on 29 May. It is the highest marathon in the world and it celebrates the successful ascent of Mount Everest by Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary. There are three categories in the event: 70-kilometer Extreme Ultra Marathon, 42-kilometer Full Marathon and 21-kilometer Half Marathon.
• Warm weather: Though the frequency and intensity of rain increase as the month progresses, May is still considered a warm and pleasant month in the Everest region.
• Spring bloom: The views are not just limited to peaks when trekking to Everest Base Camp in May. Along the route, you will also get to see the generous gift of spring: flowers of all colors including primroses and irises, and songbirds adding to nature’s melody.
• Rest stops: Though some lodges might close if rains get heavier, plenty of teahouses along the route remain open in May. This means less stress when it comes to finding food and accommodation.

With rainfall starting to increase in May, it is best to stick to the tried and tested routes to Everest Base Camp, especially if you are a first-time trekker.

• Classic Everest Base Camp Trek: This is the standard trekking route, which an overwhelming majority of trekkers choose. The trek starts from Lukla. The main points on the route are Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Deboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and Everest Base Camp. It will take you around 16 days to complete this trek.
• Everest Base Camp Trek via Jiri: If you want to explore a culturally rich part of the region before joining the main trek at Lukla, you can start your trek earlier from a place called Jiri. Between Jiri and Lukla, you will encounter streams, monasteries, farms and villages and get insights into the culture and traditions of local communities.

Everest Base Camp trek in May can be a lovely experience. It is not yet monsoon proper, so the route to the Everest Base Camp is still easy to navigate despite rain showers. And if it rains, it will only add another layer of drama to the stunning visual spectacle unfolding before your eyes. Reach out to our travel experts in Nepal who can help you choose the ideal trek to suit your budget and interests.

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Cost to Trek Everest Base Camp
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