One of the most memorable parts of a trek in Nepal, especially as part of AW women's group, is not just the landscapes, but the way you experience them. A big part of that is staying in tea houses, simple mountain lodges that are at the core of Himalayan trekking life. They may be basic, but they offer something unique: community, warmth, and a true taste of mountain hospitality.
A tea house (or trekking lodge) is the standard accommodation while trekking in Nepal. They provide a bed, meals, and a space to rest- often in remote locations where every beam, blanket, and biscuit has made its way up the mountain by foot, donkey, or yak.
As part of AW's women's Nepal trek, we always aim to book the best available lodges. But it's important to know: the higher and more remote you go, the more basic the facilities become. That's simply part of trekking life in the Himalayas.
Rooms are usually twin-share, with wooden beds, a mattress, a pillow, and a blanket or duvet. We always recommend bringing a good-quality sleeping sheet/sleeping bag liner for extra comfort.
The rooms aren't heated, so your down jacket and thermal layers will come in handy. Your room may or may not have power outlets, and if you're lucky, a small hook for your jacket. But these rooms are made for one thing: sleeping after a big day on the trail.
The heart of every tea house is the communal dining room: a shared space where meals are served, boots dry by the stove, and conversations flow over mugs of tea. You'll likely find a heater in the dining area, but not in the bedrooms, so layers and a headlamp are your best friends.
Tea houses typically serve local meals like dal bhat (lentils, rice, vegetables), which is filling, tasty, and keeps everyone on the same page when it comes to kitchen capacity. Other common dishes are momos (dumplings) Thukpa (a filling noodle soup) and fried rice. Pancakes, porridge, breads and omelettes are common breakfast fare. Many tea houses also offer simple versions of Western dishes, but the further you trek, the simpler the menu becomes.
Bathroom facilities vary. In some villages, you might have access to a shared hot shower or even an attached bathroom (often for an extra cost). Higher up, you'll find more basic, shared squat toilets and cold water only- sometimes not even running water if the pipes are frozen.
Showers become optional as you gain altitude- wet hair and freezing temperatures don't mix well, and re-wearing dusty clothes is just part of the fun. Bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitiser, and a small bar of soap to help with hygiene on the trail.
Electricity is inconsistent and usually solar-powered. Charging your phone or camera is possible in some tea houses (for a small fee), but not guaranteed. We recommend bringing a portable power bank, setting your phone to airplane mode, and embracing the digital detox when needed.
Laundry facilities aren't available while trekking. A small stash of biodegradable detergent can help you wash essentials by hand if needed, but be prepared for things to dry slowly. You'll likely end up tying damp socks to your pack and letting the sun do its job.
And yes, everyone's wearing the same clothes for days- no one cares, and it quickly becomes a badge of honour.
Adventurous Women offers an amazing opportunity to explore Nepal with a group of like-minded women. Check out our 2026 tour details here: Nepal Tea House Trek Adventure