Places such as Ghandruk, Poon Hill, and other mid-hill villages can be cold in the early morning and after sunset. During sunny days, however, walking can still be comfortable.

This makes December a good choice for travelers who want a short Himalayan trekking experience without spending two or three weeks at extreme altitude.

For example, Poon Hill can be a strong December option because the trek reaches a much lower elevation than routes that cross major Himalayan passes.

Mardi Himal can also be considered, but conditions become colder and more winter-like as you climb. Always check the current trail and weather conditions before departure.

High-Altitude Areas

This is where December becomes much more serious.

At high elevations, temperatures can fall well below freezing at night. Snow and ice can also affect trails, and strong winds can make conditions feel even colder.

The Nepal Tourism Board lists Everest-region conditions from December to February as snowy, with daytime temperatures around 5°C in the park area.

For high-altitude routes, the challenge is not simply the temperature. You also need to think about:

• Snow-covered trails
• Icy sections
• Shorter daylight hours
• Cold nights
• Wind exposure
• Closed or limited accommodation in some areas
• Higher risk of delays from winter weather

That is why December should not be treated as an ordinary trekking month for high Himalayan routes.

Best Things to Do in Nepal in December

December can actually be a fantastic month if you choose activities that match the season.

1. Take a Short or Lower-Altitude Trek

If you want Himalayan scenery without dealing with extreme winter conditions, choose a shorter trek.

Good options to consider include:

• Poon Hill Trek
• Ghandruk Trek
• Lower Annapurna routes
• Selected Mardi Himal itineraries, depending on current conditions

These routes let you experience mountain villages, forests, sunrise views, and Himalayan landscapes without spending the entire trip at very high altitude.

The key is to choose the route based on your experience and current winter conditions rather than simply choosing the most famous trek.

2. Trek to Everest Base Camp With Proper Preparation

Everest Base Camp is possible in December, but it is not the easy version of the trek.

The main advantage is that the popular autumn crowds have dropped. You may get a quieter experience and beautiful winter mountain scenery.

The disadvantages are more important:

• Very cold nights
• Snow and ice
• Possible trail changes
• Fewer available services in some areas
• Greater need for warm clothing
• More demanding conditions at high altitude