Trekking vs. Mount Everest Expedition Accommodation
Many trekkers assume they will sleep at Everest Base Camp. However, for standard Everest trekking groups, the trail ends at Gorakshep. Sleeping at EBC is usually reserved for Mount Everest expedition climbers.
During climbing season, EBC is a tent city. These camps are private and permit-restricted. They are the temporary homes of those attempting the Mount Everest summit and are off-limits to casual hikers.
It is possible to sleep at EBC if you book a specific camping trek. This requires a different permit and full camping logistics, as there are no teahouses on the glacier. It offers a taste of the Everest expedition life.
Most trekkers sleep at Gorakshep, the last settlement. From here, you do a day hike to Base Camp and Kala Patthar. It is cold and basic, but the gateway to the Everest summit views.
Unless you are on a specialized camping trip or a summit expedition, plan to visit Base Camp for photos but sleep in the lodge at Gorakshep.
