Accommodations on Everest Base Camp Trek : Expert Guide

Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in the world, attracting thousands of adventure seekers each year. It is a challenging trek that takes you through stunning landscapes, rugged mountain trails, and picturesque villages. One of the most critical aspects of the trek is accommodation, as you need a comfortable place to rest after a long day of hiking. This blog post will discuss the different types of accommodation available on the Everest Base Camp Trek, their features, and costs, and provide tips on choosing the best accommodation.

Types of Accommodation in Everest Base Camp Trek

The two main types of accommodation available on the trek are hotels/lodges and tea houses. Hotels and lodges offer more amenities, such as attached bathrooms, hot showers, and comfortable beds, but they are also more expensive. On the other hand, tea houses are basic accommodations offering shared rooms, common bathrooms, and simple meals. It’s important to note that as you ascend higher into the mountains, the availability of hotels and lodges thins down, and tea houses become the primary option for accommodation.

Accommodation Features in Everest Base Camp Trek

Room Types

Hotels/Lodges and Tea Houses offer different types of rooms based on your preference and budget. Single rooms are the most expensive option and provide a private space for one person. Double rooms are more affordable and suitable for two people who do not mind sharing a bed. Dormitory rooms are the most economical option and trekkers usually share one with multiple beds.

Toilet Facilities

Toilet facilities in hotels/lodges and tea houses vary depending on the location and the accommodation type. Most hotels/lodges have attached bathrooms with western-style toilets and hot showers. However, at higher altitudes, the basic toilet facilities consist of squat-style toilets. In tea houses, toilets are mostly shared and consist of basic squat-style toilets.

Heating Options

Heating options in hotels/lodges and tea houses are essential, especially during winter. Some hotels/lodges have fireplaces or wood-burning stoves in the common areas to keep the guests warm. Some tea houses also have similar heating options. However, electricity may be limited at higher altitudes, and heating options may not be available. In such cases, one can rent electric blankets or sleeping bags for an additional fee.

Electricity Availability

Electricity availability in hotels/lodges and tea houses is limited, especially at higher altitudes. In most tea houses, electricity is available only in the dining area and may be turned off during certain hours. In hotels/lodges, electricity is usually available in the rooms, but it may be unreliable. Charging your electronic devices may be possible for an additional fee, and bringing a portable charger for backup is recommended.

Hot Water Availability

Hot water availability in hotels/lodges and tea houses varies. Most hotels/lodges have hot water is available 24/7, and you can take a hot shower anytime. In tea houses, hot water may be limited, and you may need to ask the host for hot water to be provided for an additional fee. In some tea houses, hot water is available only during specific hours.

Wi-Fi Availability

Wi-Fi availability in hotels/lodges and tea houses is limited, especially at higher altitudes. In most hotels/lodges, Wi-Fi is available in the common areas and may be free or available for an additional fee. In tea houses, Wi-Fi may not be available, or it may be limited to specific hours.

Additional Amenities

Some hotels/lodges offer additional amenities, such as laundry services, restaurant facilities with a wide range of cuisine options, and even spa services. However, these amenities are unavailable in tea houses and are mostly present at lower elevations.

Accommodation Locations

Lukla

Located at an altitude of 2,860 meters, Lukla is a small town that serves as the gateway to the Everest region. The town boasts several hotels and lodges that cater to trekkers and mountaineers. Accommodation in Lukla is generally more expensive than in other parts of the trek, owing to its accessibility. However, the lodges and hotels in Lukla offer a comfortable stay with modern amenities such as electricity, hot showers, and western-style toilets. Lukla also has a variety of food options to suit different tastes.

Phakding

Situated at an altitude of 2,652 meters, Phakding is the first stop on the Everest Base Camp Trek after leaving Lukla. The small village has a few basic hotels and lodges that offer affordable accommodation to trekkers. Accommodation in Phakding typically consists of shared rooms and bathrooms, and hot water availability may be limited. However, most hotels and lodges in Phakding have electricity and charging facilities for electronic devices.

Namche Bazaar

Located at an altitude of 3,440 meters, Namche Bazaar is the largest town on the Everest Base Camp Trek and serves as the commercial hub of the region. The town has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, lodges, and teahouses. The accommodation in Namche Bazaar is more expensive than in Phakding, but still affordable. The hotels and lodges in Namche Bazaar offer attached bathrooms with hot water availability, and some also provide Wi-Fi and charging facilities for electronic devices. Additionally, the town has a variety of restaurants that cater to different dietary requirements.

Tengboche

Situated at an altitude of 3,860 meters, Tengboche is a small village famous for its monastery. The village has a few basic hotels and lodges that offer accommodation to trekkers. The accommodation in Tengboche typically consists of shared rooms and bathrooms, and hot water availability may be limited. However, most hotels and lodges in Tengboche have electricity and charging facilities for electronic devices. The village also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Dingboche

Located at an altitude of 4,410 meters, Dingboche is a small village that serves as a popular stopover for trekkers on the Everest Base Camp Trek. The village has several basic hotels and lodges that offer affordable accommodation. The hotels and lodges in Dingboche typically have shared rooms and bathrooms, and hot water availability may be limited. However, most hotels and lodges in Dingboche have electricity and charging facilities for electronic devices. The village also offers stunning views of Ama Dablam and other surrounding peaks.

Lobuche

Lobuche is a small village that serves as a popular rest stop for trekkers on the Everest Base Camp Trek. The village has several basic hotels and lodges that offer accommodation to trekkers. The accommodation in Lobuche typically consists of shared rooms and bathrooms, and hot water availability may or may not be available. However, most hotels and lodges in Lobuche have electricity and charging facilities for electronic devices. The village offers stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding peaks.

Gorak Shep

Gorak Shep is the last stop on the Everest Base Camp Trek before reaching the base camp. The village has a few basic hotels and lodges that offer accommodation to trekkers. The accommodation in Gorak Shep typically consists of shared rooms and bathrooms, and hot water availability may be limited.

Cost of Accommodation on Everest Base Camp Trek

Average cost of Tea House accommodation per night

The average cost of Tea House accommodation per night on the Everest Base Camp Trek ranges from $3 to $10 per person per night, depending on the location and the facilities available. Accommodation in Lukla and Namche Bazaar is more expensive than in other areas due to its accessibility and popularity. Accommodation in Gorak Shep is also relatively expensive due to its proximity to the Everest Base Camp.

Additional costs (food, drinks, snacks)

The cost of food, drinks, and snacks on the Everest Base Camp Trek varies depending on the location and the type of food. Cost of food in Tea Houses ranges from $4 to $10 per meal, depending on the location and the kind of food. The cost of drinks and snacks varies depending on the location and the availability of these items. In general, bringing some extra cash for unexpected expenses and emergencies is essential.

Meals and Beverages on Everest Base Camp Trek

Popular meals and dishes available on the trek

The Tea Houses on the Everest Base Camp Trek offer a variety of meals and dishes to choose from. Some of the popular meals include:

• Dal Bhat (lentil soup, rice, and curry)
• Momo (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables)
• Thukpa (noodle soup with vegetables and meat)
• Fried rice
• Pizza
• Pancakes
• Omelets
• Chapati (flatbread)

Availability of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options

Most Everest Base Base Camp Trek Tea Houses offer vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Vegetarian options include vegetable curries, fried rice, noodles, and soups. Non-vegetarian options include chicken, yak, and buffalo dishes.

Beverages available

The Tea Houses on the Everest Base Camp Trek offer a variety of hot and cold beverages, including:

• Tea (black, milk, lemon, ginger)
• Coffee
• Hot chocolate
• Soft drinks (soda, juice, etc.)
• Beer

Tips for Choosing Accommodation on Everest Base Camp Trek

Importance of Pre-booking

Reserve your accommodation in advance for the Everest Base Camp Trek, especially during the busiest trekking seasons (March to May and September to November). Pre-booking guarantees you a place to stay at each destination and helps you prevent any last-minute worry or disappointment.

Factors to Consider While Choosing Accommodation on Everest Base Camp Trek

When choosing accommodation on the Everest Base Camp Trek, there are several factors to consider, including:

• Location: Consider the location of the Tea House/Lodge and its accessibility to the trekking route and attractions. Accommodation in more remote areas may have fewer amenities but offer more tranquillity and natural beauty.
• Amenities: Consider the facilities available in the Tea House/Lodge, including bedding, toilets, showers, and heating options.
• Cost: Consider the cost of accommodation and the additional costs of food, drinks, and snacks. Tea Houses/Lodges in more popular locations may be more expensive than those in more remote areas.
• Reviews: Consider the reviews of the Tea House/Lodge from other trekkers. Check online reviews and ask fellow trekkers for recommendations.