EBC in Nov.

[egah]

Hi, a friend and I are trekking from Lukla to EBC in Nov. This is our first time. Can anyone tell me what the temperature will be like from Periche to base camp? Are there normally expeditions there this time of the year? We will be camping along the way. Is it a good idea to bring a toilet tent?

Thanks,

David

[Escher]

I wouldn't bother camping on that route. The lodges are so good that there is no need and it is one of the attractions of that area - that you can trek in such a wonderful place and only take sleeping bag and some clothes. Lodge trekking is a lot of fun. Most of the time you will have to camp alongside a lodge anyway and you will have to pay for the privelege. Carrying as little as possible improves your enjoyment a great deal.

So assuming you will stay in lodges then you will encounter -5 c in your room on average for the highest lodges and warmer at lower elevations, unless you have an unusual cold snap, . Camping though I would be prepared for -10 or -15. During the day it is normally t- shirts with a windproof or fleece for when you are sat down as it can be quite pleasant. Evening time and you will appreciate a down jacket.

[egah]

We're going to spend a day and a half at base camp. Are expeditions there that time of year?

Thanks

[Oli]

Nope. The usual expedition climbing season is around June. EBC is likely to be deserted in November.

[julia]

Nope. The usual expedition climbing season is around June. EBC is likely to be deserted in November.

Is that a good or bad thing?

[egah]

It's a good thing. I don't like crowds. That means I can get the choice campsite. I hear the ice fall makes a lot of noise.

[Oli]

That is a matter of opinion.

If you hope to hobnob with expedition crews then go in the spring season. Bear in mind that they may not be overly disposed to hosting a constant stream of trekkers traipsing through their camp, it depends on who you happen to meet.
If you only intend to climb Kalar Patar for a view of Everest, or if you are more interested in seeing the Khumbu Icefall rather than a populated Base Camp, then the season is not so important.

[egah]

What is the average cost to rent a room at a lodge for 2 people? Also the cost to camp?

[Oli]

The cost of the room will be less than the price for the food. Camping does not work out any cheaper. Your daily budget could be anywhere between $15-25US/day - depends on how far along the trail (higher & further from the trail head = more expensive) an whether you plan to subsist on a diet of dhal bhat or drink beer every night.

[egah]

Do the lodges have showers? Also is there internet access in Periche?

[Oli]

Do the lodges have showers? Also is there internet access in Periche?

Not always. Sat phones are slow and very expensive.

[kegarne]

At that time of year best not to shower. You natural body oils will help keep you warm at night.

[yakshaver]

At that time of year best not to shower. You natural body oils will help keep you warm at night.

Usually my last shower on the way up in Khumbu is at hotel Namche in the empnymous Bazaar.
That is also where I have my first shower comming down from wherever I've been...

Though last time I went directly down to Jorsale and stayd the night in a very nice small lodge of a Sherpa guy who spoke very good German. Excellent conditions for the room, brilliantly clean, good shower and food. Nice conversation and atmosphere.


Regarding showering, I firmly believe that my lack of major altitude sickness symptoms are directly linked to not showering above 3500m altitude.

Not showering can also save one from the advances of LYW.