Drinking Water And Food on Everest Base Camp Trek: Plan & Go

What foods are available during the trek to Everest Base Camp?

During the trek to Everest Base Camp, a variety of food options are available at teahouses and lodges along the route. These options range from local Nepali dishes to familiar Western foods.

Breakfast typically includes hearty choices like porridge with honey, eggs prepared in various styles, toast with jam, pancakes, and Tibetan bread.

For lunch and dinner, trekkers can enjoy traditional Nepali dishes such as Dal Bhat, a nutritious meal of rice and lentils served with vegetables and sometimes meat, and momos, which are dumplings filled with vegetables or meat.

Western options like pizza, pasta, and fried rice are also common, providing comfort food for weary travelers. Snacks such as biscuits, chocolate bars, dried fruits, and nuts are readily available, offering quick energy boosts along the route.

Hydration is key, with a variety of drinks like tea, instant coffee, and hot chocolate widely offered.

Vegetarian and some vegan options are available, though choices become more limited at higher altitudes, and it’s beneficial to inform teahouse staff of any specific dietary needs.

Overall, the food on the EBC trek is designed to be energy-dense and easily digestible, ensuring that trekkers stay nourished and energized throughout their journey.

Cost of food and water in Everest Base Camp Hike

Planning your budget for food and water on the Everest Base Camp trek involves thoughtful consideration, especially as costs tend to increase with altitude due to logistical challenges.

For breakfast, you'll find a variety of options, such as hearty porridge, pancakes, and eggs, typically priced between $3 to $8. Lunch and dinner choices like Dal Bhat, momos, and pasta range from $5 to $12, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Snacks like chocolate bars and biscuits are available for approximately $2 to $5. Staying hydrated is essential, with bottled water costing around $1 to $3 per liter at lower altitudes and $3 to $5 at higher elevations. Boiled water, priced between $1 to $4 per liter, is a more economical and safer alternative.

Consider investing in purification tablets or a portable filter, which range from $10 to $30 initially but provide a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to ensure safe drinking water throughout your trek.

Indulging in hot drinks like tea and coffee, priced from $1 to $5 per cup, offers a comforting break during your journey, with slight variations depending on altitude.

To manage expenses effectively during your trek, plan ahead by budgeting wisely, carrying sufficient cash, and packing snacks and water purification tools.

• Related Article: Everest Base Camp Trek Cost

Unique and the best food on the Everest base camp trek

The food on the Everest Base Camp trek is unique and special, which is not only delicious but also offers a cultural experience. Some of them are:

• Sherpa Stew (Thukpa): A traditional Sherpa dish, Sherpa stew, or Thukpa, is a hearty soup made with noodles, vegetables, and often meat like yak or chicken.

• Tsampa: It is a staple food for Sherpas, made from roasted barley flour. It is often mixed with tea, milk, or water to form a dough-like consistency.

• Riki Kur (Sherpa Pancake): This is a potato-based pancake, often served with yak butter, honey, or local cheese.

• Dhido and Sukuti: Dhido is a traditional Nepali dish made from millet or maize flour, often served with vegetable curry and gundruk (fermented leafy greens).Sukuti is a type of dried meat, typically yak or buffalo, that is spiced and often served with rice or as a snack.

Everest Base Camp Tea Houses Menu

Teahouses on the Everest Base Camp trek offer more than just meals; they also provide essential shelter and accommodation for travelers. These establishments play a crucial role in the trekking experience, offering cozy places to rest and rejuvenate. If you need detailed information about lodging options, consider checking out the guide on Accommodation on EBC Trek.

Breakfast Options

• Porridge with Honey
• Banana Pancakes
• Toast and Scrambled Eggs
• Tibetan Bread with Jam
• Chapati with Honey
• Cereal with Milk

Lunch and Dinner Choices

• Dal Bhat (Rice with Lentil Soup)
• Vegetable Fried Rice
• Momos (Steamed Dumplings)
• Sherpa Stew (Thukpa)
• Noodle Soup
• Pasta with Tomato Sauce
• Pizza (Various Toppings)
• Vegetable Curry with Rice
• Yak Steak with Potatoes

Snacks and Side Dishes

• Popcorn andFrench Fries
• Samosas
• Biscuits and Cookies
• Chocolate Bars and Doughnuts
• Dried Fruits and Nuts

Beverages

• Black and Milk Tea
• Hot Chocolate and Coffee
• Fresh Lemon Tea
• Juices and Soda
• Tibetan Butter Tea (Po Cha)

Staying Hydrated: Drinking Water on Everest Base Camp Trek

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining health and performance during the demanding Everest Base Camp trek, particularly at high altitudes where dehydration can exacerbate altitude sickness.

Trekkers should plan to drink 3–4 liters of water daily, starting early in the morning and maintaining hydration throughout the day.

Bottled water is available at teahouses along the route, though prices increase with altitude. Boiled water is another reliable option provided at teahouses for a small fee, ensuring safety from waterborne diseases.

Trekkers can also use water purification tablets or portable filters to treat water from streams or taps. It's essential to monitor urine color to measure hydration levels—clear or light yellow indicates adequate hydration.

Not only does drinking water make your body hydrated other liquids such as soups, energy drinks, tea, coffee, etc. also keep your body hydrated.

What foods and drinks should be avoided while trekking to Everest Base Camp?

It's crucial to make wise food and drink choices to maintain health and energy levels. To avoid potential gastrointestinal issues and dehydration, it's advisable to steer clear of raw or uncooked foods such as salads and unpasteurized dairy products that can harbour bacteria.

Additionally, undercooked meats and seafood should be avoided to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Spicy, greasy, and heavily processed foods can be harder to digest, especially at higher altitudes where digestion may already be compromised.

Alcohol and carbonated beverages should also be limited, as they can contribute to dehydration. Tap water and untreated water from natural sources should never be consumed—opt instead for bottled water, boiled water provided at teahouses, or water purified with tablets or filters.

By prioritizing safer food choices and staying hydrated with clean water sources, trekkers can better enjoy their journey to Everest Base Camp while minimizing health risks.

Tips for food and drinking water on the EBC trek

• Check Freshness and Preparation: Verify the freshness and hygienic preparation of food at teahouses.

• Avoid Unfiltered Water: Never drink untreated water from streams or taps.

• Avoid Raw and Unpeeled Foods: Minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses by avoiding raw vegetables, salads, and unpeeled fruits.

• Choose Local Dishes: Always choose local specialties like Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup), which are nutritious, filling, and readily available at teahouses.

• Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Minimize consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration and affect acclimatization to high altitudes.

• Educate Yourself on Water Sources: Learn about reliable water sources along the route from guides or fellow trekkers to make informed decisions.

• Use Insulated Water Bottles: Carry insulated water bottles to prevent freezing at higher altitudes.

• Avoid meat and seafood: They are imported from different parts of a country and it takes time to reach their destination.

FAQs About Foods and Drinks on Trek

Is the food safe to eat on the trek?

Generally, the food at teahouses is safe to eat as they cater to trekkers regularly.

Can I get vegetarian or vegan food on the EBC trek?

Yes, vegetarian food is widely available, and many teahouses can accommodate vegan dietary requirements.

Are there any cultural considerations regarding food and water?

Yes, it’s respectful to support local teahouses by purchasing meals rather than cooking your food.

How do I handle dietary changes or digestive issues?

Introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive issues. Carry medication for common problems like indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation.

Are there any specific drinks recommended for altitude sickness?

Hydrating drinks like herbal teas, ginger tea, and hot lemon water are recommended as they are soothing and help with acclimatization.

How do I manage waste and plastic from food and drink packaging?

Carry a reusable water bottle and use purification methods to reduce reliance on plastic bottles.

Conclusion

Managing your food and water intake is critical to ensuring a safe, healthy, and enjoyable trek to Everest Base Camp.

Prioritizing locally sourced, well-cooked meals supports your nutritional needs and the local economy, while staying hydrated with clean water helps you adapt to the challenges of high-altitude trekking.

It's important to avoid risky foods and untreated water to minimize the chance of illness and to bring along some essential snacks and water purification tools for added security.

With proper planning and awareness, you can savor the unique culinary offerings of the Himalayas and keep yourself energized and hydrated on your journey.

Before planning your trek to Everest Base Camp, read our packing gears blog for a peaceful hike and experience.

Enjoy the breathtaking beauty and adventure of the Everest Base Camp trek, and let these tips guide you in making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Reach Out to the Himalayan Recreation Team, who will guide you and solve your trekking-related problems. We will be at your service 24 hours.