We are frequently asked why we choose to stay in lodges instead of tents on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Some companies argue that camping offers more freedom and comfort. We maintain that this is absolutely not true in the Khumbu Region of Nepal and here is why.
1. Tea Lodges are an important part of the cultural traditions of Buddhist traders and pilgrims who have traveled between Nepal and Tibet for centuries. Lodge design today follows old traditions and reminds visitors of the rich history and culture of the region. Nearly all Sherpa lodges are constructed in a similar fashion following these long-standing tradition. The main room of the lodge is a large rectangular shape surrounded by windows with window seats and tables on three sides. In the middle of the room is a wood stove to keep the area warm. Traditionally, travelers and pilgrims slept on the window benches in these common rooms. Today, travelers stay in bedrooms located elsewhere in the main lodge or more commonly in adjacent buildings and the main room is used as the space for dining, socializing and relaxing.
The typical layout of a lodge along the trails to Base Camp
The locals are always happy to welcome travelers.
Relaxing in our cozy beds in Namche
2. A selling point companies use to promote tent treks is that the food catered to the group and the team has their own cook. Berg Adventures treats meals the same way any tenting trek does which means we do not buy our meals from our lodges. We carry all of our own dishes, utensils and cookware as well as all of our own food. We also bring our own cook and support staff who will expertly prepare three meals plus a large afternoon snack every day. By bringing our own staff and supplies we can offer a higher level of service and can control the food safety and hygiene of the meals we prepare. Plus, we provide a greater level of variety offering a mix of local dishes and comfort foods from home. Think of it this way, when you trek with us, you get the benefit of having expedition quality meals and you get to stay in lodges!
What a treat! Climbers enjoy a fresh home-made dinner from Yangzing and Jeyta’s famous apple pie for dessert after an ascent of Island peak.
3. Relaxing in the warmth of the lodge dining room is a wonderful way to end a long day of trekking. While bedrooms are rarely heated in the Khumbu, the dining rooms are. These dining rooms are a great hub of activity where you get to mingle with climbers, other trekkers and locals too. When you camp, you can end up feeling secluded and really miss out on the camaraderie of traveling in Nepal.
Relaxing at the lodge with hot tea and snacks during one of our rest days
Playing cards is a favorite pastime of trekkers spending much of their time in the lodges.
4. Wally Berg has been traveling to Nepal annually (often bi-annually) for over 25 years. During that time, he has developed close friendships with many lodge owners and other locals. This means you will be treated like family when you stay at or eat lunch in our carefully selected lodges. You’re not just part of any regular trekking team, your part of the Berg Adventures Team!
Climbers spending some quality time together outside of their lodge.
BAI guide Ang Temba and his wife Yangzing have always been a part of Berg Adventures treks to Base Camp. One of our favorite places to visit is their lodge in Pangboche where we are always treated like family!
Join Berg Adventures in Nepal and see the difference for yourself. Upcoming trip dates for our Everest Base Camp Trek can be found here. If you’re looking for an added challenge, ask us about climbing extensions on Island Peak and Lobuche Peak. We also offer expeditions on Mount Everest and Ama Dablam.
