nepal everest base camp trek helicopter fly backnepal everest base camp trek helicopter fly back

Everest Base Camp Trek With Heli Return

  • Duration11 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max Altitude 5,545 M (18,192 ft)
  • Group Size Max 5
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu

Trekking to Everest Base Camp and Flying Back by Helicopter: We have the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return available for individuals looking for an amazing experience that requires minimal time commitment. With this thrilling alternative, you can hike to Everest Base Camp and experience the sheer magnificence of the mountain while returning to Lukla via a picturesque helicopter ride after your journey. This offers a unique aerial view of the Himalayas and shortens the total trek.

Nepal Everest Base Camp Heli Trek Highlights

  • Scenic flights to Lukla and helicopters back from Gorakshep
  • Picturesque villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche
  • Acclimatization days for a safe and enjoyable trek
  • Hike to Everest Base Camp, the starting point for Everest expeditions
  • Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan giants
  • Sunrise from Kalapatthar, a breathtaking vantage point

Trekking in the high Himalayas of Nepal is the ultimate adventure for trekkers throughout the world. We're not sure what would excite hikers more if Nepal were home to eight of the world's fourteen tallest peaks. By far the most famous and tallest of them all, standing at 29,029 feet, is Mount Everest. Being the most popular peak, it attracts a lot of visitors and admirers, and many of them are prepared to go on the Everest Base Camp expedition (EBC trip).

The Everest Base Camp (5364 m/17598 ft) is a small settlement that serves as the starting point for the Everest ascent and is located at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall. Reaching this area, which lies hundreds of metres above the Khumbu Glacier, requires either a helicopter flight or a foot path. Since EBC is literally located above a flowing glacier, there are no permanent housing buildings there; instead, guests are supposed to sleep in insulated tents.

The Traditional Everest Base Camp Trek Route Remains Valid;

This option follows the same basic schedule as our traditional Everest Base Camp expedition. You'll walk the same route while soaking in the stunning scenery, Sherpa culture, and the process of gradually becoming acclimated to the altitude. You won't have to walk back downhill from a high elevation, like Gorakshep, to Lukla, saving you time and energy.

Advantages of Trekking to Everest Base Camp and Returning by Helicopter:

Shorter Total Trip Time: This option is perfect for people who have a restricted number of vacation days because it allows you to complete the Everest Base Camp trip in a shorter amount of time.

Scenic Helicopter Tour: Take in breath-taking vistas of Everest and the surrounding peaks during a helicopter trip above the Himalayas.

Less strain on the knees: If you have pre-existing knee problems, it may be better to forego the downhill walk.

Enjoy Base Camp on Everest in Style:Experience the wonders of Everest Base Camp in a pleasant and effective manner with the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return. For adventure seekers who are pressed for time but still want to take on this legendary Himalayan challenge, it's the ideal choice.

Now let's talk about the features of our Everest Base Camp Trek Heli Return trip packages, which include both the traditional trek and the the  helicopter return.

Everest Base Camp Trek Heli Return Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (TIA) airport, escort to hotel.
  • Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and trek to Phakding.
  • Day 3: Phakding to Namche
  • Day 4: Namche acclimatisation and Hiking day to Hotel Everest View
  • Day 5: Namche to Tengboche
  • Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche
  • Day 7: Dingboche acclimatization; explore around.
  • Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche
  • Day 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep: Trek to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorakshep
  • Day 10: Gorakshep to Kalapatthar: Gorakshep fly to Kathmandu by helicopter.
  • Day 11: Final departure or extension of your holiday in Nepal

Nepal Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty:

The EBC Trek is considered a moderate trek due to the high altitude. While the trails themselves aren't technical, the lack of oxygen and long distances can be challenging. Expect to feel fatigue, especially above 5,000 metres.

The Best Seasons for the EBC Trek:

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather conditions for the EBC Trek. Clear skies and comfortable temperatures make for enjoyable trekking. Avoid the monsoon season (June–August) due to heavy rain, and flights to Lukla might be cancelled and delayed. 

Can Beginners Join This Nepal EBC Trek?

While beginners can participate, a good level of physical fitness is crucial. Train your endurance beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.

Altitude Sickness on the Everest Helicopter Return Trek:

Altitude sickness is a concern at high altitudes. Proper acclimatization is vital. Staying hydrated and ascending gradually helps prevent altitude sickness.

Accommodation, Food, & Drinks During the Everest Heli Trek:

The EBC region boasts the most developed trekking infrastructure in Nepal. You'll find comfortable lodges with basic amenities like hot showers. Food options cater to trekkers, with local Sherpa specialties alongside familiar dishes. Remember to bring your own water purification tablets or purchase bottled water throughout the trek.

Transportation Flights and Helicopters:

Your EBC trek package will cover all necessary land transportation. This includes airport transfers (arrival and departure) in Kathmandu, a scenic flight to Lukla, and a helicopter from GorakShep.

Everest Trekking Permits:

A Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit are mandatory for the EBC Trek. The Everest Trek permits are included in this Everest Base Camp trek heli return trip package.

Trip Preparation & Fitness for the EBC Trekking Holiday

  • Train your stamina for long hikes with elevation gains.
  • Pack appropriate clothing and gear for varying weather conditions.
  • Research altitude sickness symptoms and prevention measures.

Alternative Routes to Reach Nepal Everest Base Camp:

Cost & Budget of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek

The starting price for our 11-day Everest base camp trek package is $2100 USD. We offer fair and open pricing; upon request, you will receive a comprehensive summary of the costs. All of your land transportation costs, three meals a day for the duration of the trek (apart from in Kathmandu), domestic airfare to Lukla Airport, the helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Kathmandu, all necessary lodging during the trek, a licenced, experienced English-speaking guide, porters and assistant guides are included in our Everest base camp trekking heli return tour package.

Along with lodging, meals, gear rentals, daily salaries, and insurance coverage for the entire trekking team—including guides and porters—this Everest Base Camp Trek will also cover these costs. We will pay for your permit costs, all official taxes, a first aid package with the essential medications for the hike, sleeping bags (rated for -20 degrees Celsius), and duffel bags for each member of the party.

Internet access and device charging on the Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal.

There are electricity facilities at every location along the route, so you won't have to worry about running out of battery. As an aside, you may receive bills from some lodges for using their internet and charging your devices; we will not cover those costs. You will have access to a cell phone network all along the trail, which sets this Himalayan trekking route in Nepal apart from most others. However, the altitude will affect the network connection strength, and certain locations may not have any network connectivity at all.

Your additional costs for the EBC Trek.

The gratuities you may choose to leave for the porters and guides, visa fees, overseas airfare, emergency services costs (very unusual), hot showers, wifi bills, device charging bills, and travel insurance costs are all considered additional expenses. Basically, there are additional costs for everything outside of the services we offer.

Essential Trekking Gear and Equipment For Everest Base Camp Heli Trek

You will need essential gear, equipment, and clothing for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek. One porter will carry luggage for two people, so the luggage weight limit is 10 kg per trekker. You can store your extra luggage at your hotel, which is safe, or you can store it in our office.

Head

  • Sun hat
  • Winter hat or insulating hat
  • Headlights
  • Face
  • Sunscreen
  • UV protection Sunglasses

Hands

  • Gloves depending on the season.

Body

  • Hiking shirts
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Fleece jacket: 1
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • T-Shirt
  • Polypropylene underwear
  • Down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket and pants

Footwear

  • Hiking Boots
  • Thick wool socks and thick, light socks
  • Flip-flop

Essential gear

  • Daypack 20/30 Litre
  • Water bottle and camel water bag: helpful
  • Water purification pills
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag (-15 bag is best in high-altitude trekking)

Toiletries

  • Medium-size drying towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Deodorant floss
  • Wipes

Extra items

  • First aid kit
  • Notebook and pen
  • Camera: lenses

Things to Know Before Booking the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek.

The Nepal Everest Base Camp journey is a highly sought-after journey, drawing thousands of enthusiastic hikers who follow the EBC trail each year. You may anticipate having a great time while taking in unique views of everything from verdant, rural villages to enormous peaks that make you feel insignificant. As the most popular Himalayan trekking location in Nepal, you might meet some new friends along the way. You will always cherish our 12-day Everest base camp trip with helicopter return. You won't be able to resist sharing the photos from your adventure on social media. The scenes are simply too amazing not to share. Overall, our 12-day EBC trekking package is tailored to provide the best possible experience. Our goal is to ensure that your journey goes as smoothly as possible. That's our primary objective. Anticipate a hassle-free journey to Nepal's remote Himalayas, where you will visit traditional Sherpa villages and learn about their customs, among many other experiences.
 

Itinerary

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Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return: Itinerary Note

This itinerary outlines the 11-day Everest Base Camp Trek with a helicopter return from Gorakshep. While the classic Everest Base Camp Trek takes longer, this option allows you to experience the majesty of Everest Base Camp and the Himalayas in a shorter timeframe.

    Important:

    • Due to the high altitude, proper physical fitness and preparation are crucial.
    • Be prepared for potential weather delays, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
    • Pack appropriate clothing and gear for varying weather conditions.
    • The itinerary may be adjusted based on weather or unforeseen circumstances.

    Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel.

    • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
    • Airport to Hotel Distance: Approx. 6-7 Km
    • Maximum Elevation: (1,350m) 4,428ft
    • Airport Pickup: Yes 

      This morning, we'll take a scenic domestic flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest Base Camp. After landing, we'll embark on our trek, following a gentle path to Phakding, a charming village nestled at 2,610 metres.

      • Accommodation: Lodges
      • Walking Hours: 4 hours max
      • Lukla to Phakding Distance: 8 Km
      • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
      • Maximum Elevation:  (2,800m) 9,184ft
      • Overnight: Phakding, 2610 M
      • Max. Altitude: (2,652m) 8,698ft
      • You will visit: Lukla - Phakding
      • Walking Hour: 4

        Our journey continues with a moderate hike through forests, along steep trails, and across suspension bridges. We'll arrive at Namche Bazaar, a bustling hub known as the "Gateway to Everest." Here, you can explore the shops, cafes with Wi-Fi, and even the highest Irish pub in the world! Namche Bazaar also serves as a crucial acclimatization point, allowing our bodies to adjust to the increasing altitude.

        • Accommodation: Lodges
        • Walking Hours: 6-7 hours max
        • Phakding to Namche Distance: 12 Km
        • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
        • Maximum Elevation:  (3,440m) 11,283ft
        • Overnight: Namche Bazaar

          Today's focus is on acclimatization. We'll embark on a hike to the world-renowned Hotel Everest View, perched at an impressive 3,880 metres. This luxurious lodge boasts breathtaking views of Everest, making it a truly unique experience. (Note: While EBC offers stunning scenery throughout, Hotel Everest View is a special feature of this trek.)

          • Accommodation: Lodge
          • Walking Hours: 3–4 hours max
          • Everest View Hotel Distance: 5 Km
          • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
          • Maximum Elevation:  3880 M
          • Overnight: Namche Bazaar

            Leaving Namche Bazaar behind, we'll ascend towards Tengboche, a picturesque village named after the historic Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture, admire the surrounding peaks like Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and explore the Tengboche Nature Trail.

            • Accommodation: Lodge
            • Walking Hours: 6 hours max
            • Namche to Tengboche Distance: 10 Km
            • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
            • Maximum Elevation:  (3,870m) 12,684 ft
            • Overnight: Tengboche Monastery

              Our journey takes us to Dingboche, the last Sherpa village on the trek route. This peaceful village offers stunning views of Lhotse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam. Dingboche is another crucial  Aacclimatization stop, allowing for a slower ascent and a better adjustment to the high altitude.

              • Accommodation: Lodge
              • Walking Hours: 6 hours max
              • Namche to Tengboche Distance: 10 Km
              • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
              • Maximum Elevation:  (3,870m) 12,684 ft
              • Overnight: Tengboche Monastery

                Spend a relaxing day exploring Dingboche. Interact with the friendly locals, learn about their way of life, and soak in the majestic mountain scenery. You might even spot yaks and mules, vital for transporting goods in this remote region.

                  Today's hike leads us to Lobuche, arguably the most scenic village on the trek. Prepare to be in awe of panoramic views of snow-capped peaks against clear blue skies. Lobuche serves as a base camp for climbers attempting Lobuche Peak. Enjoy a comfortable stay in a cozy lodge with basic amenities.

                  • Accommodation: Lodge
                  • Walking Hours: 6-7 hours max
                  • Dingboche to Lobuche Distance: 12 Km
                  • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
                  • Maximum Elevation: (4,900m) 16,076ft
                  • Overnight: Lobuche

                    Get ready for a rewarding day! We'll reach Gorakshep, a small village at 5,165 metres, offering the last stop before Everest Base Camp. Though no permanent residents live here, Gorakshep plays a vital role as a business hub for Sherpas catering to trekkers. After a brief rest, we'll embark on a hike to Everest Base Camp, the starting point for Everest expeditions. Take photos, soak in the atmosphere, and witness the sheer scale of Everest firsthand. We'll then return to Gorakshep for the night.

                    • Accommodation: Lodge
                    • Walking Hours: 8–9 hours max
                    • Dingboche to Lobuche Distance: 15 Km
                    • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
                    • Maximum Elevation: (5,364m) 17,598 ft
                    • Overnight: Gorakshep (5164 m) 16,942 ft

                      Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Everest from Kalapatthar, a vantage point offering incredible panoramic views of surrounding peaks. After capturing this unforgettable moment, we'll board a helicopter for a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping, a relaxing massage, or a cultural heritage tour (upon request).

                      • Accommodation: Kathmandu Hotel
                      • Walking Hours: 3 hours max
                      • Gorakshep to Kala Patthar Distance: 1.5 Km
                      • Included Meals: Breakfast
                      • Maximum Elevation: 5545 m (18192 ft)
                      • Overnight: Kathmandu

                        Our staff will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to the majestic Himalayas and your incredible Everest Base Camp adventure with a helicopter return.

                          Cost Details
                          Includes
                          • Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and Dinner) in Trekking
                          • Lukla Flights tickets (Domestic)
                          • Helicopters return from Gorakshep.
                          • Accommodation during the trek (local lodge)
                          • Government-registered local expert Sherpa guide,
                          • Porters and duffle bags for the trek
                          • Sagarmatha National Park fees and Khumbu local entry fees
                          • In cities, accommodation includes breakfast.
                          • Welcome dinner.
                          • Equipment and clothing for porters and staff.
                          • Insurance for all staff and porters.
                          • Transportation as per itinerary, including airport pickup and drop-off
                          • First Aid Kit.
                          • Everest Region Trekking Map for Each Member
                          • Salary, allowances, expenses and insurance for all staff, including porters
                          Excludes
                          • Nepal visa: Multiple entry for 30 Days, USD 40
                          • Lunch and dinner during hotel stay in Kathmandu
                          • Personal gear and clothing (available on hire)
                          • Tips for guides and porters
                          • Table drinks, snacks, personal insurance, and medical evacuation in case of emergency
                          • Expenses incurred due to accidents, landslides, strikes, political unrest, etc.
                          Good to know

                          Major Festivals and celebrations in Nepal

                          We are suggesting some of the biggest and most interesting festivals of Nepal, which are celebrated in the capital city of Kathmandu and in various parts of Nepal. You can plan a Nepal vacation or the 12 days Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek accordingly so you can experience more Nepalese cultures and participate in the festive events.

                          Mani Rimdu Festival in Tengboche Monastery

                          The Tibetan lunar calendar is used to determine the Mani Rimdu festival's date. The Mani Rimdu is performed in Tengboche during the ninth Tibetan month, which usually coincides with the full moon in October or November.The 15th, 16th, and 17th of November 2024 have been set aside as the Mani Rimdu Festival dates.

                          Dashian Festival (Inside Nepal)

                          The longest and most significant celebration in Nepal is Dashain. The ten-day event honours the triumph of good over evil. Equal numbers of Hindus and Buddhists participate in the holiday. Dashain is a time for gathering with family and friends to rejoice. It's a joyful, peaceful, and joyful time.  Festival Dates: October 10, 2024–October 15, 2024

                          Indra Jatra in Kathmandu

                          Indra and his mother, Dagini, are honoured during the eight-day joyful festival of the Newari community in the Kathmandu Valley in order to obtain their blessing for the upcoming harvest. The chariots of the living goddess Kumari, Ganesh, and Bhairav will be the main attractions of the festival, as will the Lakhey and many cultural mask dances around Kathmandu Durbar Square. Lord Indra is a particularly revered deity in Hindu societies where a good harvest is crucial since he has an avatar as the god of rain. 

                          Who will be my trek guide for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek?

                          You will be walking with a highly experienced mountain sherpa guide who can speak English. If you want a guide in another language for the Everest Helicopter Return Trek, such as German, Spanish, French, Japanese, Chinese, or Korean, please let us know, but there will be an additional cost.

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