Everest Base Camp: Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse Info

Planning to stay near Mount Everest and chase that iconic sunrise or starry night? Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse is one of the most popular choices for travelers visiting Everest Base Camp. To help you plan your stay smoothly, I've put together 15 of the most common questions about this guesthouse—all with straightforward, friendly answers that cut through the confusion.

1. Where exactly is Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse located?

Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse sits right opposite Rongbuk Monastery, a sacred Buddhist site nestled at an altitude of 4,980 meters. It's just a short distance from the new Everest Base Camp—around 4 kilometers away. Its location means you're only about 12 kilometers in a straight line from the summit of Mount Everest, offering unbeatable views of the world's tallest peak without having to travel far.

2. What types of rooms are available at Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse?

The guesthouse has around 30 rooms that can accommodate up to 100 guests in total. You'll find twin rooms and dorm rooms here, with dorm options ranging from 2 to 5 beds per room—single rooms aren't available. All beds come with clean bedding and electric blankets, which are a must for staying warm at this high altitude. Each room also includes basic amenities like a washbasin, a small desk and a few chairs. Some rooms even have windows that frame stunning views of Mount Everest or the surrounding snow-capped mountains, so keep an eye out for those if you want to wake up to epic scenery.

3. What facilities does Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse offer?

While the facilities are basic, they're more than sufficient for a comfortable stay at Everest Base Camp. You'll have access to electricity, which is great for charging your cameras, phones and other gadgets. Hot and cold water are available, though the water pressure can be a bit low at times. The guesthouse has its own clean squat toilets. Wi-Fi isn't available here, but don't worry—mobile phone signal is surprisingly good, so you can still stay connected with friends and family.

4. What kind of food can I get at the guesthouse?

The guesthouse has a simple restaurant that serves basic Chinese and Tibetan dishes. You'll find staples like steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables—and thukpa, a hearty noodle soup that's perfect for warming up in the cold. They also offer plenty of sweet Tibetan tea, which is a local favorite and great for combating the chill. If you're not a fan of local cuisine, it's smart to bring some packaged or dried food with you. Keep in mind that meals here are a bit more expensive than in cities like Shigatse or Lhasa, and you might have to wait a little while during busy times.

5. Is Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse open year-round?

No, it shuts down and remains closed throughout the winter season. For winter trips to Everest Base Camp, our travel agency will arrange your stay at Basong Village, which is the nearest settlement to Mount Everest for a convenient and cozy experience. A tiny number of standard hotel rooms are available for visitors with special needs. You can request an accommodation upgrade for your trip when confirming your tour booking, and we will handle the arrangement accordingly.

6. How do I get to Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse from Shigatse or Lhasa?

The most convenient way to get to Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse is by tour vehicle. Public transportation to Everest Base Camp is limited, especially for foreign travelers, so joining an organized tour or arranging a private transfer is the way to go. From Shigatse, the journey takes around 5 to 6 hours, and from Lhasa, it's about a 2-day drive with stops along the way to acclimate to the altitude. Our Tibet travel agency can arrange comfortable, reliable transportation for you, complete with experienced drivers who know the mountain roads well—we'll even handle all the necessary permits, so you don't have to worry about a thing.

7. Do I need to book in advance?

Absolutely, especially during peak season. The guesthouse has a limited number of rooms, and they fill up fast between May to October—these are the popular months for clear views of Everest. Even winter trips demand advance planning—make sure to apply for your Tibet Travel Permit well ahead of time, or your journey may face avoidable delays.

8. What's the average cost of a stay at Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse?

Prices vary depending on the season and room type. Dorm beds are the most affordable option, usually ranging from $20 to $30 per person per night. Twin rooms cost around $50 to $80 per night. Keep in mind that prices tend to go up during peak season. Meals are extra, with most dishes costing between $5 and $15.

9. How cold is it at the guesthouse?

It gets very cold at Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse, especially at night—temperatures can drop well below freezing, even in summer. Every bed comes with an electric blanket, which does a great job of keeping you warm while you sleep. The restaurant has a couple of stoves in the center, so you can huddle around them to warm up while waiting for your food. Be sure to pack warm, layered clothing—thermal underwear, down jackets, and thick socks are a must.

10. Do I need any special permits to stay at Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse?

Yes, like all areas of Tibet, you'll need a Tibet Travel Permit to visit Everest Base Camp and stay at Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse, as well as the Aliens’ Travel Permit. These permits can't be applied for on your own—you must get it through a registered travel agency. If you're entering Tibet from Nepal, you'll also need a Chinese Group Visa. Our agency handles all permit paperwork for our clients.

Conclusion

The biggest attraction nearby the Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse is Rongbuk Monastery itself—just a short walk across the road. It's one of the highest monasteries in the world and well worth a visit to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.