The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is a bucket-list adventure for many, and for good reason. Imagine waking up surrounded by towering, snow-capped peaks, sipping hot tea while the sun kisses the majestic Annapurna I. But before you lace up your boots and hit the trails, understanding the accommodation options along the route is crucial, especially during the summer/monsoon season. This guide, updated for 2025-07-19, will give you the inside scoop on the best tea houses, budget considerations, safety tips, and everything else you need to know for a comfortable and unforgettable ABC trek.
Having trekked to ABC myself several times, I’ve learned the hard way what to look for in a good tea house. From the quality of the food to the friendliness of the staff and, most importantly, the cleanliness of the rooms (especially vital during monsoon!), these factors can significantly impact your overall experience. This isn’t just about finding a place to sleep; it’s about finding a haven where you can rest, recharge, and connect with fellow trekkers.
Understanding Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Unlike some other treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp trek offers a relatively comfortable experience in terms of accommodation. Forget camping unless you specifically choose to do so with a guided tour; the trail is dotted with tea houses, offering basic but generally adequate lodging. These tea houses are simple guesthouses run by local families, providing a room (usually with two beds), blankets, and food. Remember that during peak season, especially around October/November and March/April, tea houses can get incredibly crowded, so booking in advance is highly recommended. During the summer/monsoon, however, you’ll find fewer crowds but need to be extra mindful of potential landslides and trail conditions.
What to Expect from Tea Houses
Tea houses are the backbone of the trekking experience in Nepal. Expect simple rooms with twin beds, often with thin mattresses. Blankets are usually provided, but bringing your own sleeping bag is highly recommended, especially during colder months and for hygiene purposes. Electricity is often limited and may be solar-powered, meaning charging your devices might incur a small fee (around NPR 100-300 per hour). Hot showers are available in some places for a fee (NPR 200-500) but don’t expect high water pressure! Toilets are typically squat toilets, and while some tea houses have Western-style toilets, they are less common. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Key Villages and Tea House Locations on the ABC Trek
The standard ABC trek usually takes 7-12 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization. Here’s a breakdown of key villages and what to expect in terms of accommodation:
- Nayapul/Birethanti: Starting point of the trek. Plenty of options ranging from basic to slightly more comfortable.
- Tikhedhunga: First night stop for most trekkers. Basic tea houses available.
- Ghorepani: Famous for Poon Hill sunrise views. More developed with better amenities.
- Tadapani: A small village with a few tea houses, offering stunning views.
- Chomrong: A larger village with a good selection of tea houses, offering better facilities and views of Annapurna South.
- Dovan/Himalaya: Located in the Modi Khola valley, these stops offer basic tea houses amidst lush forests.
- Deurali: The final stop before ABC, located in a landslide-prone area. Fewer options and more basic facilities.
- Annapurna Base Camp: Limited accommodation, book in advance. Expect basic facilities, incredible views, and cold nights!
Top Tea Houses Along the ABC Route (Summer/Monsoon 2025)
While the quality of tea houses can vary, here are a few recommendations based on my experiences and recent traveler reviews, keeping in mind that conditions can change, especially after the monsoon season. Remember to check recent reviews before booking:
In Chomrong:
Chomrong is a key stop for acclimatization and offers a good variety of options:
- Chomrong Cottage: Known for its friendly service and delicious Nepali meals. Offers clean rooms and decent Wi-Fi (for a fee). Expect to pay around NPR 800-1200 for a double room.
- Panorama Guest House: Boasts fantastic views of Annapurna South. Rooms are simple but clean. Similar price range to Chomrong Cottage.
Between Dovan and Deurali:
Options here are more limited and basic, but still functional:
- Himalaya Hotel (Himalaya): A basic but reliable option. Expect simple rooms and basic meals. Prices are lower here, around NPR 500-800 for a double room.
- Dovan Guest House (Dovan): Offers a similar experience to Himalaya Hotel.
In Annapurna Base Camp:
Accommodation at ABC is very basic and fills up quickly. Booking ahead is essential. Prepare for cold nights and limited facilities:
- Annapurna Base Camp Guest House: One of the few options available. Expect very basic rooms, limited electricity, and simple meals. Prices are higher due to the location, around NPR 1500-2000 for a double room.
- ABC Lodge: Similar to Annapurna Base Camp Guest House in terms of facilities and price.
A Note on Booking
During the peak season, booking tea houses in advance is highly recommended, especially in popular villages like Ghorepani and Chomrong, and of course, at Annapurna Base Camp itself. While booking isn’t always possible during the summer/monsoon season (due to unpredictable weather and trail conditions), it’s still worth trying to contact tea houses ahead of time, especially if you’re trekking in a group. You can usually find contact information online or ask your trekking agency to assist with bookings. Don’t expect sophisticated online booking systems; most bookings are done via phone calls or through trekking agencies.
Budgeting for Accommodation and Food on the ABC Trek
The ABC trek is relatively budget-friendly compared to some other treks in the Himalayas. However, costs can vary depending on your choices and the time of year. Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs per day (in NPR):
- Accommodation: NPR 500-2000 per night for a double room (depending on location and season). Expect to pay more at higher altitudes.
- Food: NPR 2000-3000 per day (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Prices increase as you ascend. Dal Bhat is the staple meal and is often the most economical option.
- Drinks: NPR 500-1000 per day (water, tea, coffee). Bottled water is readily available but contributes to plastic waste. Consider using a water filter or purification tablets.
- Charging Devices: NPR 100-300 per hour.
- Hot Shower: NPR 200-500 per shower.
Therefore, you can expect to spend around NPR 3000-6000 per day on accommodation and food, excluding trekking permits, TIMS card, Nepal visa costs, and transportation to and from Pokhara. For a 10-day trek, this translates to roughly NPR 30,000-60,000 (approximately $250-$500 USD). Remember to factor in extra expenses for souvenirs, tips for porters and guides (if you hire them), and any unexpected costs.
Trekking Permits, TIMS Card, and Nepal Visa
Before embarking on the ABC trek, you’ll need the following permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Approximately NPR 3000 per person.
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card: Approximately NPR 2000 per person (organized trek) or NPR 4000 per person (independent trek).
You can obtain these permits at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Make sure to bring your passport, passport-sized photos, and cash. A Nepal visa is also required for most nationalities. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or apply in advance through the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country. Visa fees vary depending on the duration of your stay.
Safety Considerations During the Summer/Monsoon Season
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp during the summer/monsoon season (June to September) presents unique challenges. While the trails are less crowded, the risk of landslides, heavy rainfall, and leeches increases significantly. Here are some essential safety tips:
- Check weather forecasts regularly: Be aware of potential rainfall and landslides. Local guides and tea house owners can provide valuable insights.
- Hire a guide: A local guide can help you navigate the trails safely, especially during adverse weather conditions. They are also familiar with the terrain and can provide valuable information about the local culture.
- Pack appropriate gear: Bring waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking boots, and a raincoat or poncho. A waterproof backpack cover is also essential.
- Use trekking poles: Trekking poles provide stability and reduce strain on your knees, especially when descending steep slopes.
- Be aware of leeches: Wear long sleeves and trousers, and tuck your trousers into your socks. Use insect repellent containing DEET.
- Drink plenty of water: Stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes.
- Acclimatize properly: Ascend gradually to avoid altitude sickness. Spend an extra day in Chomrong or Deurali to acclimatize.
- Inform someone of your itinerary: Let your family or friends know your trekking plans and check in with them regularly.
- Carry a first-aid kit: Include essential medications, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
- Be prepared to turn back: If the weather conditions are too dangerous, don’t hesitate to turn back. Your safety is the top priority.
Practical Tips and Insider Knowledge
Here are a few extra tips to enhance your ABC trekking experience:
- Learn a few basic Nepali phrases: Knowing a few words like “Namaste” (hello), “Dhanyabad” (thank you), and “Mittho chha” (delicious) can go a long way.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering temples and monasteries.
- Bargain respectfully: Bargaining is common in Nepal, but do it politely and respectfully.
- Try the local cuisine: Dal Bhat is a must-try, but also explore other Nepali dishes like momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and sel roti (rice bread).
- Be mindful of waste: Pack out all your trash and avoid using single-use plastics.
- Tip generously: Tipping is customary in Nepal, especially for porters and guides. A tip of 10-15% is generally appreciated.
- Bring a power bank: Electricity is often limited in tea houses, so a power bank is essential for charging your devices.
- Download offline maps: Download offline maps of the Annapurna region to your phone to help you navigate the trails.
Remember to pack light but smart. Every gram counts when you’re trekking at high altitude. A comfortable backpack, sturdy trekking boots, and layers of clothing are essential. And most importantly, be prepared to embrace the unexpected. The ABC trek is an adventure, and things don’t always go according to plan. But with the right preparation and a positive attitude, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion: Your Annapurna Adventure Awaits
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a challenging but rewarding adventure that offers breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and a chance to connect with nature. By understanding the accommodation options, budgeting wisely, and prioritizing safety, you can ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime! Don’t forget to obtain your trekking permits, TIMS card, and Nepal visa before you go. Share your own experiences and tips in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your ABC adventure!