Trekking in December in Nepal is a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to experience the beautiful landscapes and stunning views of the Himalayas. While the temperature in Nepal in December can be quite cold, the clear skies and dry weather make it an ideal time for trekking. Trekkers can choose from a range of treks, from the challenging Everest Base Camp Trek to the easier Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The trails are generally less crowded in December, providing a peaceful and tranquil trekking experience. In addition, December is a festive month in Nepal, with several cultural festivals taking place, offering trekkers the opportunity to immerse themselves in local traditions and culture. Overall, trekking in Nepal in December is a thrilling and rewarding experience that should not be missed by adventure seekers.

Temperature:

The temperature in Nepal in December can vary widely, depending on the altitude of your trek. In lower altitude regions such as Kathmandu, the temperature during the day can range from 15°C to 20°C, while at night it can drop to 5°C to 10°C. In higher altitude regions, such as the Annapurna region or the Everest Base Camp trek, the temperature during the day can be as low as -10°C to -15°C and at night, it can drop to -20°C to -25°C.

Weather:

December is generally considered a dry month in Nepal, with very little rainfall. However, in some parts of the country, especially in the mountainous regions, snowfall is common. The weather can be quite clear and sunny during the day, but it can get very cold at night. Trekking in Nepal in December requires warm clothing and good-quality sleeping bags to ensure that you stay comfortable.

Climate:

Nepal has a diverse climate, ranging from tropical in the lowlands to arctic in the higher elevations. December falls in the winter season in Nepal, which is generally considered to be the best time for trekking. The clear skies and the dry weather make it an ideal time to go trekking in the mountains.

Festival:

December is a month of festivals in Nepal. One of the most important festivals is the Bisket Jatra, which is celebrated in the city of Bhaktapur. The festival marks the start of the Nepali New Year and is characterized by colorful processions, music, and dancing. Another important festival in December is the Tamu Lhosar, which is celebrated by the Gurung community in Nepal. The festival marks the end of the harvest season and the start of a new year.

Benefits:

Trekking in Nepal in December has many benefits. The clear skies and the dry weather make it an ideal time to trek in the mountains. The trails are less crowded, which means that you can enjoy the natural beauty of Nepal in peace. The views of the mountains are spectacular, and you can see some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest.

Preparation:

Trekking in Nepal in December requires careful preparation. You will need warm clothing, good quality sleeping bags, and sturdy trekking boots. It is also important to bring a good quality backpack and a waterproof jacket. You should also make sure that you have the right permits and that you are in good physical shape before you start your trek.

Vegetation:

The vegetation in Nepal varies according to altitude. In lower altitude regions, such as Kathmandu, the vegetation is predominantly tropical, with lush forests and vegetation. In higher altitude regions, such as the Annapurna or Everest regions, the vegetation is alpine, with sparse trees and shrubs. You can expect to see oak forests, and juniper forests as you trek through the mountains.

Recommended Treks in December:

• Everest Base Camp Trek: This is a popular trek that takes you to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. The trek offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and takes you through remote Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and beautiful landscapes. The trek is challenging, but the rewards are worth it.
• Annapurna Circuit Trek: This trek takes you through the Annapurna region, one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to experience local culture and traditions. The trek can take up to 3 weeks, but it's worth it.
• Langtang Valley Trek: This trek takes you to the Langtang Valley, located north of Kathmandu. The trek offers a great opportunity to experience local culture, as well as stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek is relatively easy and can be completed in 7 to 10 days.
• Upper Mustang Trek: This trek takes you to the Upper Mustang region, located in the northwestern part of Nepal. The trek offers a unique experience, as the region is a restricted area and requires a special permit. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, as well as the opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: This trek is a great option for those who are short on time. The trek takes you to the Poon Hill viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek can be completed in 5 to 7 days.
• Manaslu Circuit Trek: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you around the majestic Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. The trek offers a challenging but rewarding experience, taking you through remote villages, beautiful landscapes, and stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek starts in the village of Soti Khola and follows the Budhi Gandaki River, passing through lush forests and traditional Gurung and Tibetan villages. The highest point of the trek is the Larkya La Pass, which offers breathtaking views of Manaslu and the surrounding mountains. The trek typically takes 14-16 days to complete and requires a special permit as it is a restricted area. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a great alternative to the crowded Everest and Annapurna regions and offers a unique opportunity to experience the culture, traditions, and natural beauty of Nepal.