Accommodation During the Everest Base Camp Trek

Even if most of the focus falls on altitude and experience, one aspect that truly determines your experience each day is where you lodge at night. 

So, whether you are a budding trekker or a first-time adventurer, knowing what lodging has to offer along the way tends to improve comfort, safety, and enjoyment. In this blog, we will look into what accommodation looks like during the Everest Base Camp trek and what you can expect as you move closer to the base of the world's tallest peak.

Types of Accommodation along the Route

Tea Houses

Tea houses are family‐run guesthouses scattered everywhere from Lukla to Gorak Shep. They typically feature dormitory or twin rooms with basic wooden beds, foam mattresses, woollen blankets, and shared toilets down the hall. Meals are served in a central dining room, where fireplace warmth and high‐altitude dal bhat keep you fuelled.

Luxury Lodges

A handful of upgraded lodges in villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche offer private rooms, attached bathrooms with hot showers, electric blankets, and free Wi-Fi (when available). These cost upwards of USD 50 per night but provide the most comfort before tackling the higher camps.

Typical Costs at Key Villages

Phakding

As your first day’s stop at 2,610 m, Phakding has the widest price range—from simple rooms at USD 5 to USD 250 for deluxe suites in a few luxury lodges. Most trekkers pay USD 5–10 for a standard twin room.

Namche Bazaar

At 3,440 m, Namche’s teahouses charge USD 20–30 per night for a private twin with shared bathroom. Some lodges here can run USD 50–70 for attached‐bathroom rooms, especially during peak season.

Dingboche and Pheriche

Above 4,000 m, room rates climb to NPR 1,500 (≈ USD 12) per night and can reach NPR 2,000 when demand peaks. A mid‐altitude trekker’s budget for eight nights of accommodation (Phakding to Lobuche) typically comes to NPR 5,700 (≈ USD 43).

Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp

Gorak Shep (5,164 m) rooms cost NPR 2,000–2,500 (≈ USD 17–21). Base Camp (5,364 m) has no lodges; climbers pitch tents organized by expedition operators.

Facilities and Amenities

Showers and Charging

Hot showers are rare above Namche and cost NPR 200–300 per use; many lodges bundle shower + charging for NPR 500. Electricity is via solar or generator—expect regular outages at higher camps.

Wi-Fi and Communication

Most tea houses offer Wi-Fi for USD 3–5 per hour, but speeds drop as you climb. Mobile coverage exists only intermittently above Tengboche.

Heating and Bedding

Most tea houses supply two to three blankets; electric or solar blankets are available in luxury lodges. Room heaters are extremely rare beyond Namche.

Booking and Seasonality

Peak vs Off-Peak

March–May and September–November are busiest: book Namche and Dingboche lodges at least 4–6 weeks ahead to secure better rooms. In the quieter winter, prices may drop by 10–20 %, but harsh weather increases risk.

Payment and Cancellation

Most tea houses require only payment in cash (NPR, USD) upon arrival. Credit cards are accepted only in the luxury lodges of Namche. Cancellation policies vary—always reconfirm with your trekking agency.

Tips for a Comfortable Stay

• Pack Small: Corridors are narrow; large suitcases won’t fit. Use duffels or backpacks.
• Padlock & Cash: Bring your lock; ATMs are available in Namche but charge high fees.
• Power Bank: With limited charging points, a 20,000 mAh bank can power your devices for several days.
• Footwear Etiquette: Leave trekking boots outside; many lodges provide slippers.
• Respect Local Customs: Remove shoes and hats in tea houses; a small tip for staff is appreciated.

Accommodation is integral to your Everest story. From humble tea houses to upgraded lodges, each night spent above the clouds brings you closer to the world’s highest summit. Safe trekking!