Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Overview

  • Duration: 11 Days
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Destination: Everest Region
  • Starts/Ends: Lukla/Kala Patthar
  • Best Time: Spring & Autumn
  • Travel Style: Trek & Helicopter Flight
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,644 m

Highlights

  • Enjoy the thrill of the Kathmandu Lukla commercial flight
  • Follow the footsteps of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary to the base of Mt. Everest, Everest base camp
  • Explore the mountain villages and the life of the inhabitants
  • Close encounters with Sherpas and learn their culture
  • Adventurous trail, full of lush forests, streams, rivers, and bridges
  • Hike to Everest View Hotel and Nagarjuna Hill
  • Experience walking on glaciers and steep trails
  • Witness gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar and 360-degree mountain views around you
  • Diverse landscapes and jaw-dropping aerial panorama of the snow-capped mountains during the helicopter flight to Kathmand

"Trek to Everest Base Camp and return to Kathmandu by helicopter on this special package. It's a short trek in the Khumbu region full of adventure and thrills from day one."

Among all the Everest base camp trek packages, the Everest base camp trek with helicopter return has become the most famous one in recent days. It's an 11 days trek through beautiful Sherpa villages and lush rhododendron forests to the lap of Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world. This iconic trek combines a helicopter return from Kala Patthar, which makes this particular package very appealing. 

You not only get to see jaw-dropping mountain landscapes during trekking but also get to see unparalleled aerial panoramas of the Himalayas. After the long & difficult walk, you get rewarded with a sensational helicopter flight experience. All the passengers get full window seats to enjoy the flight. It'll be a comfortable ride. 

If you are looking for something unique in the Himalayas, then you should definitely consider the Everest base camp trek with a helicopter return package. We assure you one of the most adventurous treks of your life. We'll arrange everything for you, from reserving accommodation on the trail to obtaining permits on your behalf. You can expect a hassle-free trek with us. 

Peek into the mountain lifestyle & culture

The Khumbu region is home to communities like Bhotiyas, Sherpas, Rai, Limbus, etc. The locals along the Everest base camp trail are very welcoming and friendly. They are deeply attached to their roots and practice their ancient Tibetan Buddhism traditions. As you pass by different villages, you'll get to see their daily lifestyle. 

Life in the mountains is very simple yet gratifying. You'll learn it on this trip. While trekking, you get a chance to explore some ancient monasteries like Tengboche and Pangboche. You'll come across many stupas, prayer wheels, prayer flags, and chortens on the way. Everest base camp trek with helicopter return is also a culturally enriching journey. 

Mountains & landscapes

The mountain views during the Everest base camp heli trek are breathtaking. The landscape changes from lush green valleys to moraines & glaciers as the trek progresses. You get to see the stunning panorama of Mt. Everest (8,849 m), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m), Mt. Cholatse (6,440 m), Mt. Thamserku (6,608 m), Island Peak (6,160 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), etc during the trek. 

During hikes to viewpoints like Everest View Hotel (3,962 m) and Nagarjuna Hill (5,100 m), you'll get to relish fantastic mountain scenery. The trek lets you catch many beautiful sunrises & sunsets. The sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,644 m) is the most incredible one. And the bird's eye view of the Himalayas at the end of the trek is something you can eagerly look forward to.

Itinerary summary

Everest base camp trek with helicopter return itinerary is divided into two parts. The first is trekking, and the second is helicopter flight itself. The trek begins with a commercial flight from Kathmandu to Lukla airport (2,860 m). From Lukla, the trail descends to Phakding village (2,610 m) on the same day. You'll sleep low to avoid chances of altitude sickness. The trail goes through Monjo village (2,835 m) the next day. 

From here onwards, Sagarmatha National Park begins, so we register our permits at the checkpoint. Trekking through lush forests and crossing numerous suspension bridges, you'll ascend to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). This iconic Sherpa town has all the modern facilities, including WiFi, internet cafes, restaurants, ATM lounges, etc. 

We have two acclimatization days in our Everest base camp helicopter trek itinerary. One in Namche Bazaar and another one in Dingboche. These acclimatization days will give you the opportunity to explore the village and spend more time with the locals while adjusting to the elevation. Namche Bazaar has famous hiking options to the Everest View Hotel (3,962 m) and Khumjung Monastery (3,790 m). 

Leaving Namche Bazaar, you cross bridges and walk past rhododendron forests to Tengboche village (3,860 m). Here, you get to explore the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region, Tengboche monastery. The trail then descends to Pangboche village (3,985 m) the following day and goes along terraced fields to Dingboche (4,410 m). You'll hike to Nagarjuna Hill (5,100 m)to acclimatize. 

Dingboche onward, the terrain changes into a treeless, barren area. You will see rocky hills and prominent views of snow-capped mountains. The next point is Lobuche village (6,119 m_. From here, trek through Gorak Shep (5,164 m) and walk on the glacial path to Everest base camp (5,364 m). You return to Gorak Shep for the night stay on the same day, and hike to Kala Patthar (5,644 m) early in the morning. 

At Kala Patthar, enjoy the views, and our helicopter crew will pick you up from there. From here, it's an hour-long flight to Kathmandu. You get to see the gorgeous aerial panorama and fly over the Khumbu Glacier & Khumbu Icefall.

Everest trekking difficulty

Everest base camp heli trek difficulty is moderate. The trekking route to EBC begins with a gentle walk through a forested path and gradually goes through dense forests, pastures, and moraines. The terrain gets rough and steep in many sections. Everest base camp helicopter trekking is recommended to beginner trekkers but do not underestimate the Himalayas. 

The rise in elevation every day brings thin air pressure on the body and increases the risks of altitude sickness. Beyond 4,000 meters, even a short walk will exhaust your body. You walk along steep foothills and glaciers. The services are bare minimum at the upper part of the trail. Endurance and determination to reach Everset base camp are crucial. 

Once you reach Kala Patthar, you do not have to retrace the trail back to Lukla. Descending demands equal effort, and you get to skip this part of Everest base camp trekking. You'll directly fly from Kala Patthar to Kathmandu in a helicopter. 

Booking

To book the Everest base camp trek and return to Kathmandu by helicopter, you have to send us your booking request or contact us at our given number/mail. You can easily book the package through our site. It's a simple process. After we send you the trip confirmation mail, you can begin preparing for the trek and booking flights. 

You can send mail at [email protected] or call us at 9851060902 (Whatsapp/Viber) for immediate support. 

Similar packages

We have other trek packages with helicopter return like Langtang Valley trek with heli return, Annapurna base camp trek with heli return, and Everest view trek with heli return. Not only that, we can tailor-made heli return treks to many other places on our guest's requests.

Itinerary

We pick you up from the international airport on your arrival day. Your hotel is in Thamel, and it's half an hour drive (in traffic) from the airport. Our team will help you with the luggage. We use a private vehicle from the airport to the hotel drop. On a remaining day, we prepare for the trek and later enjoy a welcome dinner in the late evening. 

  • Hotel
  • Welcome dinner

The flight to Lukla is early in the morning. It's a thrilling flight with superb mountain views. Lukla is the starting point of the trek, and porters join the group here. On the same day, you'll descend to Phakding village for a night's stay. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi river and goes through forested paths. You get to witness a glimpse of Mt. Khumbila along the way. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 2,860 m
  • 35 minutes flight & 4 hours trek

The trail from Phakding crosses multiple bridges and goes through lush forests to Monjo village. From here, you walk in the Sagarmatha National Park. The further route to Namche Bazaar ascends through dense forests, passing by beautiful waterfalls and remote villages. On the way, you also cross many streams and suspension bridges. The final ascent is steep, and you reach Namche Bazaar. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 3,440 m
  • 6 hours

Namche Bazaar is the tourist hub of the Khumbu region. It is also a famous resting point. You spend a couple of nights here to acclimate your body. Take this chance and hike to Everest View Hotel. This place offers a stunning panorama of many snow-capped mountains like Lhotse, Everest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku, etc. Also, do not forget to explore the souvenir shops, cafes, and museums of Namche Bazaar later in the day. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 3,962 m
  • 5 hours

This part of the trekking route presents gorgeous mountain landscapes. Leaving Namche Bazaar, you continue trekking through dense rhododendron forests, enjoying a glimpse of giant mountains on the way. You trek through small settlement areas and walk along the hillside above the Dudh Koshi river. The trail leads you to Phunki Thangka, and you cross Imja Khola. Further, trekking through other rhododendron forests, you finally reach Tengboche village. The view of Mt. Ama Dablam is best from this village. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 3,860 m
  • 5 hours

Today, wake up early if you want to catch a gorgeous sunrise. Have breakfast and begin trekking towards Dingboche village. The trail crosses a suspension bridge right after coming out of Tengboche village over the Imja Khola. Following the trail, you reach Pangboche village. From here, the route gets narrow, and you reach the next village called Orsho. The trail follows the lower route to the bank of Imja Khola, and passing by mani walls & chortens, Dingboche arrives. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 4,410 m
  • 5 hours

You take an acclimatization day in Dingboche village too. This will be your last resting point before reaching EBC. You have an optional hike to Nagarjuna Hill. This hike is necessary to acclimate your body, and you get to see breathtaking mountain landscapes too. Enjoy the remaining day in Dingboche, exploring and relaxing. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 5,100 m
  • 4-5 hours

From Dingboche, the trail ascends to Thukla. This part of the trail gets much tougher because of the increase in elevation. Likewise, the scenery changes to barren hills and snowy mountains. Following a steep uphill path, you soon begin walking the moraine of Khumbu Glacier and reach the top of Thukla pass. The trail further goes through grassy pastures and rocky terrain to Lobuche. You can see mountains like Nuptse and Taboche dominating the sky. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 4,910 m
  • 5-6 hours

Today, it's a long trekking day. You reach the Everest base camp. From Lobuche, the trail steeply ascends to Gorak Shep. From here, you walk by small streams and glacial moraines to the base camp of Mt. Everest. The high altitude and thin air make the walk very difficult. However, once you reach the Everest base camp, the views and the feeling of standing at EBC will make you forget all the hardships. After spending some time, trek back to Gorak Shep for a night's stay. 

  • Lodge
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • 5,364 m
  • 8 hours

It is the last day of the trek. Kala Patthar is located just above Gorak Shep, and it is the last destination of our trek. You leave Gorak Shep before sunrise and hike to Kala Patthar following a steep, rugged trail. From this viewpoint, you can see mesmerizing views of giant mountains all around you. Soon, the helicopter will be there to pick you up, and enjoying the aerial panorama of the Himalayas, you come back to Kathmandu. 

Our team will drop you at the hotel. You are free to roam around and shop. In the late evening, we meet you over a farewell dinner and also give you a trip completion certificate. Enjoy lively Thamel streets before returning to your hotel.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast & farewell dinner
  • 5,644 m
  • 4 hours trek & 1-hour flight

Contact us to custom-create the EBC helicopter itinerary. As per the changes done in the itinerary, the cost of the package may change too. If you wish, you can also do the luxury Everest base camp trek with a helicopter return.

Essential Info

A normal day during the Everest base camp trekking: day-to-day itinerary

Your day-to-day itinerary during the Everest base camp trek with helicopter return involves getting up early and progressing towards the next destination. You enjoy a scrumptious breakfast with snow-capped mountain views. The trail leaves the village and goes through lush forests & small settlement areas.

You'll learn about the mountain lifestyle and get to see the lifestyle of Sherpas on the way. With the increase in elevation, the trail only gets steeper and more remote. The facilities will get limited and expensive. The Everest base camp trek ends once you reach Kala Patthar and fly back to Kathmandu in a helicopter on the same day. 

Altitude sickness

The Everest base camp trekking with heli return has risks of altitude sickness given the high elevation. Though most trekkers do not suffer from altitude sickness, you never know how your body may react to altitude change. So, it's better to be careful and have precautions. 

Our Everest base camp trek itinerary has acclimatization days. So, you'll get ample time to rest and adjust to the elevation. Do not rush while trekking, and take your time. Be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness like headache, insomnia, nausea, breathing issues, and loss of appetite. 

The best way to avoid altitude sickness is by keeping yourself hydrated and not gaining more than 500 meters a day. Also, keep yourself away from alcohol while gaining elevation and sleep low. Do carry medicine to subside early symptoms of altitude sickness.

Everest trek preparation

To prepare for Everest base camp trekking, the best thing you can do is go on frequent hikes and walk to build up your walking hours. As the trek requires a minimum of 6 hours of walking every day, it's better to get your legs ready early. Likewise, you can do activities like swimming, cycling, running, etc to build your stamina. In the gym, you can train your body for high endurance and strength.

  • Follow our packing checklist to not miss anything
  • Break-in our trekking shoes and get used to it
  • Book your flight to Kathmandu, once we send you to trip confirmation mail
  • Do not forget to carry your travel insurance documents
  • Meet your doctor before flying to Nepal
  • Have an extra budget for shopping & personal expenses

Best Time for this Trek

The best time to trek to Everest base camp is spring from March to April and autumn from October to November. The clear sky and stunning views make the helicopter flight back to Kathmandu a phenomenal experience. As the weather remains stable mostly, you'll not see any cancellations or delays in the flights. The climate is neither too hot nor too cold still pack a few warm pieces. 

Food & Accommodation

The food option is great on the Everest base camp trek route. You can get fresh bakery items to delicious coffee. The heavy choices are usually dal bhat, burger, pizza, pasta, steak, etc. Likewise, you get momo, noodles, chapati, porridge, curries, thukpa, thenduk, sandwiches, toast, eggs, etc. The drinking water is available in all the lodges. You can refill your water bottle free of cost. 

The lodge accommodation in the Khumbu region is quite decent, and as per your budget, you can choose from budget-friendly to luxury options. During the Everest base camp helicopter return trek, we book rooms in basic but clean and comfortable lodges. You'll be sharing the room with a fellow trekker. All the rooms have two seperate beds with a blanket & pillow. 

Other general information

  • Charging: Charging facilities are available in all the lodges. It's a paid service not covered by the package cost. You can carry spare batteries or a solar charger. Usually, the lodges have separate charging stations around the reception area. 
  • Internet: The Khumbu region has a very good provision of the internet, whether it be cellular or WiFi. WiFi is best at lower altitudes, but the network can get slow from time to time. You have to pay a few bucks for the service. The Ncell (Nepali sim company) has the best service in the Khumbu region. You can even use the internet at the base camp of Mt. Everest using this sim. However, there can be a disturbance in the network. 
  • ATM: There are ATM lounges in Namche Bazaar. You'll not find an ATM anywhere else on the trail. As you'll need cash to buy additional services, withdraw enough Nepali money in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar to last you till the trek. 
  • Luggage: Your backpack should not be more than 5 kg. It's the weight limit set by the airlines for the Kathmandu-Lukla flight. The main luggage will be a duffel bag. Its weight limit per trekker is 10 kgs. 
  • Tipping: You are free to tip our crew whatever amount you wish at the end of the trek. Tips are expected at the end of the trek, so do not feel awkward if our crew approaches you for it. 
  • Crew: Trek with an experienced guide and friendly porter. Our crew is well trained to lead groups to the Everest base camp. They are highly reliable and can handle any adverse situation. 

Tour FAQs

  • Q1. Can helicopters reach Everest Base Camp?

    Yes, helicopters can reach Everest base camp, but landing is difficult because of not enough space. It takes around 10-15 minutes from Lukla to reach EBC in a helicopter. 

  • The Everest base camp trek with helicopter return begins at Lukla airport at 2,860 meters and ends at Kala Patthar (5,644 m). From Kala Patthar, you trek a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu. 

  • The total trekking distance of the Everest base camp helicopter trek is 65 km. 

  • On a daily basis you have to walk 6 hours on average during the Everest base camp trekking. 

  • You will need the Khumbu rural municipality permit and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit for the Everest base camp trek with helicopter return. The permit cost is included in the package cost. 

  • The Everest base camp trek with helicopter return is a moderate trek. This trek is an ideal option for naive trekkers too. The trail has a good balance of gentle and steep terrain. 

  • If you get mountain sickness during the trek, then our guide will give you first aid. If the symptoms do not get controlled after giving first aid, we will airlift you to a hospital in Kathmandu. So, your travel insurance should cover emergency air evacuation. 

  • There is no age limit for the Everest base camp trek with helicopter return. Anyone can be part of this adventurous trek if in good health and can walk 5 hours a day minimum. 

  • You can withdraw cash in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar. There is no ATM in other villages, and the locals do not accept credit cards. 

  • The chances of helicopter flight delay are very low if you are trekking in the peak season. All of our trips are on schedule during the peak trekking season. 

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