CoreTreks Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure at Everest Base Camp in July? Don’t let the rainy season deter you! With proper preparation and a spirit of adventure, you can witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Take the leap and challenge yourself to conquer the trails, experience the Sherpa culture, and bask in the breathtaking scenery. Seize this opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.
It’s time to lace up your boots, embrace the rain, and make your dream of reaching Everest Base Camp a reality. Join us on this incredible journey and let the wonders of the Everest region in July leave an indelible mark on your soul. Take action now and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!
In July, Nepal experiences abundant rainfall, which deters many trekkers from venturing onto the trails. However, those who adequately equip themselves with reliable rain gear and anticipate potential travel disruptions can still enjoy a rewarding trek to Everest Base Camp. Here is what you can anticipate during this month.
Weather
July falls within Nepal’s monsoon season, characterized by daily rainfall and generally warm temperatures. It is worth noting that the Everest Region experiences its highest precipitation levels of the year during July, along with August. However, if you come prepared for the wet conditions and accept the possibility of obscured views due to rain clouds, trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is usually feasible during this month.
In July, Namche Bazaar offers comfortable temperatures, with an average high of 60°F (16°C). As you ascend higher into the mountains, temperatures become cooler and rainfall decreases. Conversely, lower elevations are more prone to rain, which can lead to landslides and muddy paths. However, it’s important to mention that even during the monsoon season, rainfall doesn’t typically persist throughout the entire day.
Crowds & Costs
During early July, there is a possibility of encountering expeditions returning from Everest Base Camp (EBC) after their climb or attempt to summit the peak. The climbing season typically spans from May to June, as the onset of the monsoon brings challenging and hazardous conditions, making it impractical for climbers to continue. However, apart from these returning expeditions, it is unlikely that you will come across many other trekkers on the EBC trail in July. This month is considered a low-season for trekking.
One advantage of traveling during the low season is that finding accommodation in decent teahouses should not be a struggle. However, it’s important to note that some teahouses may be closed during this season. Find more about Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Breakdown.
Recommended Routes
If your goal is to trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in July, it’s important to be prepared for varying rainfall levels throughout different elevations. Lower elevations are likely to experience the highest amount of rainfall, although it’s important to note that even in the Everest region, there are no areas considered truly “low” in terms of elevation. As you ascend higher, the rainfall generally decreases. However, regardless of elevation, rain clouds can still obstruct views, even when it’s not actively raining. If you’re willing to tolerate a few days of trekking in the rain, you may still have the opportunity to visit EBC under favorable conditions.
Alternatively, if you prefer to explore the Everest region without trekking all the way to EBC, a viable option in July is to base yourself in Namche Bazaar and embark on day hikes from there. This approach allows you to enjoy the amenities of Namche Bazaar, such as cafes, shops, and even museums, during days when the weather is unfavorable. Namche Bazaar can be reached within a two-day trek from Lukla.
What to Bring
When trekking in July, it’s essential to pack the appropriate gear to tackle the rainy conditions. Here are some items to consider bringing:
- Good waterproofs: Invest in high-quality rain gear, including a waterproof raincoat and rain pants, to keep yourself dry during showers or steady rainfall.
- Sufficient clothing: Pack enough clothes to ensure you have dry attire each day. This will help you avoid wearing wet clothes from the previous day. Quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabrics are recommended.
- Umbrella (optional): Consider bringing an umbrella for lighter showers, as it can provide additional protection. However, for consistent rainfall, a comfortable raincoat and rain pants are preferable.
- Entertainment: While opinions on bringing entertainment items such as books, e-readers, or playing cards may vary among trekkers, it can be wise to have a source of entertainment in case of delays or being confined due to rain. You may find it helpful to bring a book or other forms of entertainment to pass the time.
Additionally, I recommend checking out a comprehensive guide, like the “Trekking Gear List for Everest” to ensure you have all the necessary equipment and supplies for your Himalayan trek.
Getting There & Away
In July, the most efficient and convenient way to reach the Everest region, as well as any other month, is by flying from Kathmandu to Lukla. However, it’s important to note that flights are frequently subject to delays or cancellations due to various conditions in Kathmandu, Lukla, or along the route. These chances of disruptions are even higher during July. If you plan on flying to or from Lukla, it is advisable to allocate ample time to account for potential delays and ensure you have sufficient buffer time for important international connections. Additionally, bringing some entertainment can help pass the time during possible waiting periods.
While traveling overland may seem like an alternative to avoid flight delays, it is not recommended in July. Overland access to Lukla, such as the ‘Pioneers’ Route’ from Jiri to Base Camp, is susceptible to road blockages caused by landslides. Therefore, relying on overland transportation to reach Lukla during this time of the year is not advisable.
Also read: Best time to Trek to Everest Base Camp
