Everest Base Camp Hotels During The Trek-A Full Guide
Last Updated on Aug 6, 2023
On a Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, you will not find traditional hotels. Instead, you'll encounter teahouses for your overnight stay. These Mount Everest base camp hotels are cozy, basic shelters that provide food and a warm bed.
The teahouses are usually family-run and offer a unique, cultural experience. They are a safe, friendly space for trekkers to rest, eat, and interact with other travelers. Despite being basic, these Everest Base Camp hotels cater to your essential needs during the trek.
Although teahouses aren't as fancy as typical hotels, they are a vital part of the Everest Base Camp Trek experience. These places, often set amidst stunning landscapes, offer an unforgettable opportunity to embrace the local culture and meet fellow adventurers.
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Accommodation Types in Everest Base Camp Trek
Before embarking on the adventurous journey to Everest Base Camp, understanding your accommodation options is crucial. The trail offers different types of lodging that cater to varying comfort levels, budgets, and experiences. These include hotels/lodges, teahouses, and even camping. Let's explore what each accommodation type entails to help you prepare for your Everest adventure.
Hotel/Lodges
In the lower altitudes of the Everest Base Camp trek, you'll find hotels or lodges. They're more expensive than teahouses, but they provide more amenities, like private bathrooms and sometimes internet access. Despite the cost, they offer added comfort and are usually quite safe.
Teahouses
Teahouses are basic, budget-friendly accommodations found throughout the trek. Prices vary, but they're generally affordable. These places are often busy during the trekking season, but they provide a warm bed, hot meals, and an opportunity to socialize. Teahouses are safe, but it's a good idea to keep valuables with you.
Camping
Camping is less common on the Everest Base Camp trek, primarily due to the convenience and affordability of teahouses. However, some trekkers prefer the adventure of sleeping in a tent under the stars. Camping requires carrying more equipment and may cost more due to additional gear requirements. It's generally safe, provided you follow standard camping safety guidelines.
Elevation-wise hotels during Everest Base Camp Trek
Understanding where you'll rest each night during the Everest Base Camp Trek is important. Let's discuss accommodation options based on the elevation of each location.
Hotels in Lukla and Phakding
Your trek begins in Lukla (2,860m or 9,383ft), where about 30 plus hotels await. These hotels usually cost around $5 without the attached bathroom per night. However, the attached bathroom hotels are quite expensive in the region ranging from $20-30 per night. Next is Phakding (2,610m or 8,563ft) with similar prices and 25 hotels. Both offer private rooms, hot showers, and a range of meals.
Namche Bazaar (3,440m or 11,286ft) has over 60 hotels. Prices here can reach up to $10. The attached bathroom hotels here in Namche are also quite expensive costing $20-30. Here, you'll find comfortable beds, Western and local food, and even some Wi-Fi spots. Namche gets busy during trekking seasons, so book in advance.
Hotel Everest View
The Everest View Hotel, sitting at an impressive altitude of 3,880 meters, is not just any hotel in the Himalayas. As you step into its dining area for breakfast, you're greeted with panoramic views of Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks. The breakfast spread includes traditional Nepali options like 'Dal Bhat' (rice and lentils) as well as Western favorites. Lunch and dinner menus are diverse too, offering both local flavors and international dishes, ensuring trekkers get the energy they need for their journey.
Due to its prime location along the Everest Base Camp trek route, the hotel can get quite packed, especially during the trekking seasons in spring and fall. A night's stay can range from $250 to $500 per night, depending on the room and season. It's wise to book in advance, especially if you're trekking during peak times. The high altitude means it can get chilly, but the rooms are equipped with warm blankets to keep you cozy.
In Tengboche (3,860m or 12,664ft), about 2 hotels and around 5 teahouses offer basic rooms for $7. Despite being simple, they provide warm meals and necessary facilities. The menu features local dishes like dal bhat and a few Western options.
Hotels in Debuche
When you travel through Tengboche, you can get the hotels in Debuche in abundance. This place includes around 10 hotels at the same price as Tengboche.
Hotels in Dingboche
Dingboche (4,410m or 14,469ft) hosts approximately 30 hotels. Prices range from $5-$30. With the increasing altitude, accommodation gets simpler, but you'll still get essential amenities and hearty meals to energize you.
At Lobuche (4,940m or 16,207ft), there are nearly 6 hotels. Costs can range from $10 and above due to the remote location. They're basic but offer shared rooms, a dining area, and local food options.
Himalayan Eco Resort, Lobuche
Hotels in Gorakshep
Gorakshep (5,164m or 16,942ft), with about 6 teahouses, offers a final resting point costing $10-$30. Facilities are basic, but they provide warm food and a sense of community before your final push to Everest Base Camp.
No accommodation at Everest Base Camp
Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m or 17,598ft), you'll find no accommodations. This is a moment for taking photos, celebrating your achievement, and starting your journey back down. Make sure you have a plan to return to Gorakshep for your overnight stay.
Other Availabilities in Hotels and Teahouses during Everest Base Camp Trek
Aside from providing a place to rest, the accommodations along the Everest Base Camp Trek also offer several other facilities for trekkers' comfort. Understanding what to expect from these services will help you plan better and pack wisely. Let's discuss the food availability and quality, toilet facilities, and other amenities you can find during your trek.
Food Availability and Quality
In hotels and teahouses during the Everest Base Camp Trek, you'll find a variety of foods. At lower elevations, menus include Nepali, Indian, and sometimes Western dishes. As you go higher, the menu simplifies, with staple dishes like dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, and potato-based meals being common. Regardless of the elevation, food quality is generally good, as meals are freshly prepared.
Toilet Facilities
Toilet facilities vary by altitude. In lower regions, most hotels have Western-style flush toilets. In the teahouses at higher altitudes, you might find simpler squat toilets. While many teahouses have indoor toilet facilities, some may require a short walk outside. It's essential to carry your toilet paper as it's often not provided.
Other Amenities
At lower elevations, some hotels offer amenities like Wi-Fi and hot showers, usually for an extra cost. As you ascend, these comforts become less common. Most teahouses provide blankets, but carrying a sleeping bag is recommended for added warmth. Charging facilities for electronic devices are usually available at an extra fee. Despite the simplicity, teahouses, and hotels always provide a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Cost range of Hotels during the Everest Base Camp Trek
After understanding the types of accommodations and their facilities, it's important to consider their costs during your Everest Base Camp Trek. Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the trekking season, the altitude, and the specific services you use. Now, let's take a closer look at the cost range of hotels and teahouses along the route to help you budget your adventure.
Everest Base Camp Hotel Price Range
Tips for Choosing Hotels during Everest Base Camp Trek
Choosing the right accommodation can enhance your Everest Base Camp Trek experience. A few helpful tips can make the selection process easier: 1. Consider the trekking season: The demand for accommodations can rise during peak trekking seasons. Booking in advance can help secure a spot in your preferred lodges or teahouses.
2. Identify your comfort needs: Some trekkers prefer more comfort and are willing to pay extra for amenities like private bathrooms and Wi-Fi, usually found in hotels or lodges. Others are okay with basic facilities provided by teahouses.
3. Budget your trip: Knowing the average cost for accommodations at each altitude can help you budget your trek effectively.
4. Read Reviews: Check out reviews from fellow trekkers about their experiences with specific lodges or teahouses. This can provide valuable insights.
5. Be flexible: Sometimes, the best experiences come from unexpected places. If a teahouse or hotel is full, don't be disheartened. The next one might offer an even better experience.
6. Respect local customs and environment: Being respectful will enhance your experience and help maintain a positive relationship with the local community.
7. Pack wisely: Remember, amenities vary with altitude. Pack essential items like a good sleeping bag, personal hygiene products, and necessary trekking gear.
FAQs
How much does it cost to do base camp Everest?
The cost to trek to Everest Base Camp can vary widely based on the level of comfort, guide services, and additional expenses. It typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000, excluding international flights.
Can you camp at Everest Base Camp?
No, camping is not allowed at Everest Base Camp for trekkers. The camp is for climbing expeditions and research teams only. Trekkers usually spend a few hours at the base camp and return to Gorakshep or Lobuche for an overnight stay.
Is Everest Base Camp worth it?
Absolutely! While challenging, the trek to Everest Base Camp offers breathtaking views, cultural experiences, and a sense of achievement. However, the trek's worth depends on individual interests and physical capabilities.
Is Everest Base Camp dangerous?
Like any high-altitude trek, it comes with risks, including altitude sickness. But with proper acclimatization, a well-planned itinerary, and a knowledgeable guide, these risks can be significantly reduced.
How long do you stay at base camp on Everest?
Most trekkers spend only a few hours at Everest Base Camp for photographs and rest before returning to Gorakshep or Lobuche for an overnight stay.
Does anyone live at Everest Base Camp?
No one permanently lives at Everest Base Camp. It's occupied temporarily by climbing expeditions during the spring climbing season.
Are attached bathrooms available in Everest Base Camp Trek?
Attached bathrooms are usually found in hotels at lower elevations. Higher up, most teahouses provide shared bathroom facilities.
Is a hot shower available in Everest Base Camp Trek?
Hot showers are often available at lower elevation lodges and some teahouses for an extra fee. As you ascend, hot shower facilities may be limited or unavailable.
Final Thoughts Embarking on the Everest Base Camp Trek is a truly enriching experience. Your choice of accommodation - whether a Mount Everest base camp hotel or a humble teahouse - plays a significant role in this journey. Each offers a unique blend of comfort, culture, and camaraderie that enhances the overall adventure. So, as you plan your trek, consider your comfort needs, budget, and remember to respect local customs. After all, the journey is as remarkable as the destination, and each step brings you closer to the heart of the Himalayas. Happy trekking!
