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Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, EBC, Kalapattar
Country
Nepal
Duration
11 Days.
Best Season
Mar - Apr / Oct-Nov.
Group
Private.
Max. Altitude
5545 M./18192ft.
Accommodation
Hotel and Lodge.
Transportation
Flight - Helicopter - Private Vehicle.
Fitness Level
Moderate.
Overview
“This distinct Everest Base Camp Trek with helicopter return tour package constitutes a fabulous journey to Everest region through the popular Everest trail as well as the helicopter tour. Within a limited period of time experience a wide range of adventure amidst the majestic mountain range and traditional Himalayan Sherpa culture.”
Take a breathtaking helicopter flight to return after the famous Everest Base Camp trek. To get to the base of Mount Everest, you go through Sherpa settlements, iconic Namche bazar, historic monasteries, and stunning scenery. Fly back to Lukla with breathtaking Himalayan vistas instead of making the lengthy descent.
For people with huge aspirations but little time, this is the different approach for an iconic adventure.
Enjoy a picturesque 15 - 20 minute helicopter trip back to Lukla instead of the long descent. Experience breathtaking helicopter ride overlooking at the flying vistas of Everest, glaciers, and Himalayan villages - a memorable and different than usual way to conclude your journey.
The trail to Everest base camp is well known for the marvelous views of highest mountains, lush forest, tapering ridges, giant glaciers and many more.
Our special package to EBC offers two distinct experiences from the single journey. From the land you will be drenched with the awe-inspiring view of highest mountains including Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Cho Yu (8201m), Nuptse (7855m) and many other snow capped peaks touching the horizon, and from the sky you will enjoy the bird’s eye view of the same mountain ranges, turquoise lakes, massive glaciers and every other aspects of Khumbu region.
The Everest base camp trek starts from Kathmandu from where the flight takes you to Lukla. From Lukla following the popular Everest trail via Namche-Tengboche. Apart from its scenic features the trail exhibits the lives of Sherpa community with their traditional attire, foods and culture. In addition, walking through artistic Buddhist monasteries and museums, suspension bridges enrolled in prayer flags, we reach the Everest Base Camp nestled in the giant Khumbu glacier. The return to Lukla from base camp is made via helicopter which provides amazing view of mountain ranges of Everest region.
Helicopter experience
Helicopter ride from EBC to Lukla: A view like no other
Finishing up with your iconic Everest Base Camp trek, the helicopter return will offer scenic finale to your amazing journey. The alternative to retracing the same trail that you used earlier to get to Everest base Camp (5345m), and Kalapattar (5545m) you will rise above the rugged terrain of Khumbu region while admiring the breathtaking aerial experience.
As the helicopter lifts up from Kalapattar (5545m) you will be treated with a panaromic view of Himalayan giants - Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori - spreading out beneath you like a living mountain map. Glacial rivers, icefalls, and remote Sherpa villages come into view in a way only possible from the sky.
The flight will be full of visual drama lasting up to 20 minutes. As you fly above Gorekshep, Lobuche, Dingboche, Tengboche you will remember the trail that you hiked on couple of days earlier in the high altitudes. The ride ends at Lukla Airport, known as one of the most scenic airports in the world, where you'll reconnect with your flight back to Kathmandu or continue your adventure. However, if you wish to ride back to Kathmandu it is possible too.
Lastly, skip the long descent and enjoy a scenic 15 - 20 minute helicopter ride back to Lukla. Witness stunning aerial views of Everest, glaciers, and Himalayan villages - an unforgettable and time-saving way finish to your trek.
$2,100/person
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Itinerary
Daily Schedule
Show detailed Itinerary
Day
1
Arrival at Kathmandu (1350 M.)
Accomodation:
4 star Hotel.
Meals:
Breakfast.
Transport:
Private Vehicle.
Upon landing on international terminal of Kathmandu, one of our team member will take you to your hotel by a private vehicle. There will small briefing about the trip during evening.
Day
2
Drive to Rameshep (4 hours) and fly to Lukla and Trek to Phadking (2652 M.) - 3/4 hour walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Transport:
Private Vehicle / Flight.
In the early morning, you will drive to Ramechhap Airport to catch a flight to Lukla. This short yet exhilarating flight offers an unforgettable adventure in itself. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will begin your trek to Phakding, traversing lush green landscapes with breathtaking views of Kusum Kanguru along the way.
Day
3
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 M)- 6 hours Walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Today we will be hiking along the Dudh Koshi River passing through forest of pine, cedar forest and eventually hike along and reach Namche Bazaar. This historic trading hub for Nepalese and Tibetan merchant who trade goods like salt, dried meat, as well as textile. The place is not good place to buy traditional crafts but it still remains the main trading post in the Khumbu region.
Day
4
Acclimatization Day in Namche. Day hike to Khumjung (3440 M.) - 4 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Today will be our acclimatization day. Today we explore Namche bazaar, visit school made by Hilary, some local museum reflecting Sherpa culture and many more. We will hike thorough many view points and enjoy the views of Himalayas. We enjoy first glimpse of Tangboche peak (6367m), Lotse Peak and many others from a tip of the hill, over the local airport of Syangboche. The unpredictable weather of the Himalayan region makes the day kind of physically demanding. Later in the evening you can interact with fellow trekkers. The second night will be spent in Namche as well.
Day
5
Namche to Tengboche (3860 M.) - 6 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
The easy trail today with amazing views and sound of yak bell will lead you to Tengboche. After following the flat trail we will descend to the valley of Pungki Thanka and ascend right of the river towards the monastery of Tengboche. The day will be accompanied by the views of Amadablam, Everest and other peaks.
Day
6
Tengboche to Dingboche (4410 M.) - 4/5 hrs walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
During the trek, you will descend through a scenic forest, cross the Imja River, and go through the village of Pangboche at an altitude of 3900m. This day's hike provides a unique experience as you will not lose elevation and will have chances to see magnificent mountains such as Amadablam, Lhotse, and others. Your journey will continue through fertile meadows to Dingboche, known as the "summer valley."
Day
7
Acclimatization day two. Day hike to Nagerjun Hill (4410 M.) - 4/5 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
On the second acclimatization day, we will hike to a height of 5100m. In the morning, we will climb Nagerjun Hill for around 6 hours to get a glimpse of various peaks such as Lobuche East, Taboche, Thamserku, Kangtega, and Ama Dablam. On a clear day, it may even be possible to see Makalu. After a brief rest, we will head back down to Dingboche. After lunch, we will relax in Dingboche and spend the second night there.
Day
8
Dingboche to Lobuche (4910 M.) - 5 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
After hiking through a broad valley, we will arrive at Dughla and come across the Trekkers Aid Post in Pheriche, at an altitude of 4240m. The Aid Post is operated by Western volunteer doctors and backed by the Himalayan Rescue Association, providing medical assistance and consultation for trekkers. We will then move up the valley, climbing higher in elevation and leaving the valley behind to reach the yak grazing lands of Lobuche (4910m).
Day
9
Hike to Everest Base Camp (5550m) & Gorakshep return (5164m). - 6 hours walk.
Accomodation:
Lodge.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Today you will hike towards Everest base camp. Today you won’t gain much elevation but moving up and down time and again will be tiring. Once reaching basecamp you will enjoy the view of Khumbu icefall, place where Everest expedition begins. Later, we return to Gorakshep a place that lies somewhere in between base camp and Kalapatthar.
Day
10
Hike to Kalapatthar (5545 M.) - fly back to Lukla by helicopter and fly to Kathmandu by regular flight.
Accomodation:
4 star Hotel.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Transport:
Helicopter.
Today we hike to Kalapatthar and enjoy the views of the mountains like Everest, Nupse, Lotshe, Pumori and many others. We return to Gorakshep for breakfast and fly to Lukla by helicopter. You can enjoy the bird eye view of Everest region while flying on the helicopter.
After arrive at lukla you will catch regular flight to Ramechep and drive back to Kathmandu.
(Gorekchap to Kathmandu direct helicopter flight is avaliable with an extra charge of USD 600 Each. )
Day
11
Final departure to your onward destination.
Meals:
Breakfast included.
Transport:
Private Vehicle.
Our team member will drop you to airport by private vehicle.
Availability
Inclusions
- All necessary domestic & international airport transport as per the itinerary.
- 2 nights 4 star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on BB plan.
- Flight fare from Kathmandu – Lukla. (Only 15 KG luggage per person is allowed).
- Gorakshep to Lukla by Helicopter flight on sharing basis. (Gorakchep to Kathmandu direct helicopter available with extra 600 each.)
- Full board tea house trekking cost with breakfast, lunch, dinner and a cup of tea or coffee with meal.
- Available standard lodges, guesthouses accommodation during the trek (Twin sharing).
- One professional English speaking trekking guide.
- Necessary assistance guide for entire trek.
- The required number of porters to carry the luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests).
- Food, accommodation, salary, transportation, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff.
- Everest National park permit and trekker’s TIMS (Trekking Information management System) card fees.
- Good quality duffel bags during the trekking. (Refundable after finish trekking)
- First aid kit.
- All government taxes.
Excludes
- International airfare, Nepal entry visa fees.
- Lunch, dinner and others expenses in Kathmandu.
- Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water during the trekking.
- Temple and monasteries entry permits fees.
- Extra services than the itinerary.
- Travel insurance and any kind of emergency rescue.
- Helicopter charter fees in case of flight delay or postponed or cancellation due to bad weather.
- Others not mentioned in the above inclusive heading.
Galleries
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The ideal time of year for this trek
The optimum seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek are spring (March to May) and fall (October to November). During this season, the weather is perfect for climbing at high altitudes. The most stunning views of snow-capped mountains and a clear, beautiful blue sky. The hike is always ideal in the months listed above, although you may also go in February and September. Because of the severe cold in December and January, as well as the intense rains that occur during the monsoon season from June to August, we do not advise making this journey during those months.
Emergency and insurance
Having travel and medical insurance is essential wherever you go, especially when trekking in Nepal. The Himalayan terrain is known for its unpredictable weather, avalanches, high mountain passes, alpine trails, and the challenges of peak climbing and mountaineering. One of the most common risks is altitude sickness.
A good travel insurance policy should cover theft, loss, and medical emergencies. When visiting Nepal, it’s highly recommended to choose a plan that includes ambulance services and helicopter evacuation in case of serious injury or illness. This kind of insurance helps protect you from most of the risks you may face while trekking in Nepal.
Guide and Porter
We offer you a knowledgeable group of guides, Sherpa, and porters who are friendly, good communicators, and neutral. The number of guides and porter depends upon your group size. Each of them is capable of managing challenging circumstances and crises. We also offer you a responsible porter to ensure that all of your belongings are handled securely. They will be pushing you in a way that respects your strengths and acknowledges your freedom or space in order to complete the trek successfully. Finally, we offer you the incredible and highly skilled human resources needed for a trip in which every need is met. Since porters can only hold 20 kg, it is advised to bring minimal items.
Trekking gears and equipment
Individual interests and preferences influence equipment selection. The important factor to consider is carrying enough clothing to deal with the Himalayas' unpredictable weather conditions. Personal belongings are carried in your backpack, while the rest is carried by yaks or porters. Waterproof duffel bags are provided by us and will be carried by our responsible porters.
Comparison trekking back VS helicopter return
|
|
Trekking back |
Helicopter return |
|
Duration |
3-4 days |
15-20 minutes |
|
Physical effort |
High |
Low |
|
Views |
Similar views (on the way up to EBC) |
Aerial view |
|
Comfort |
Moderate |
High |
|
Experience type |
Traditional trekking |
Modern day adventure |
|
Ideal for |
Longer holidays |
Time limited & comfort seekers |
Trekking gears and equipment
Individual interests and preferences influence equipment selection. The important factor to consider is carrying enough clothing to deal with the Himalayas' unpredictable weather conditions. Personal belongings are carried in your backpack, while the rest is carried by yaks or porters. Waterproof duffel bags are provided by us and will be carried by our responsible porters.
For Body:
- Gore-Tex jackets and pants.
- Few pairs of trekking t-shirts and trousers (waterproof if possible).
- Heavy down jacket (one).
- Winter hat.
- Winter gloves.
- Waterproof boots.
- Warm inner thermal.
- Enough cotton under liners ( 6 pcs).
- Shocks both heavy and light (5 pairs each).
Personal Supplies:-
- Sun Screen.
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, floss, etc.)
- Hand sanitizer.
- Face/body wipes.
- Neck warmers, lip balm.
- Medications (Ibuprofen, others if necessary).
- Water purification tablets.
-
Hiking poles ,Head lamp with extra batteries
Camera with extra batteries.
- Head lamp with extra batteries
What we offer?
- Sleeping bags (to be returned after trek).
- All the necessary permits.
- Basic Medical Kits.
Faqs
What is the best time of year to do the Everest Base Camp Trekking with helicopter return?
The best time periods for doing the Everest Base Camp Trek are the spring season, which spans from March to May, and the autumn season, which runs from September to November.
Is it necessary to have previous trekking experience before attempting the Everest Base Camp Trekking?
No, it is not necessary to have prior trekking experience but as stated, you need strong will power in order to reach to base camp.
What is the cost of the Everest Base Camp Trekking with helicopter return, and what is included in the package?
The cost of trekking is starting from $2100 and the price may vary with the number of person and the choice of service that you choose to experience on the mountain. The package includes entire trekking cost with three meals a day while on trek, accommodation on Kathmandu.
How long does the trek take, and what is the difficulty level?
Usually this trek takes around 13 days including 1 extra day in case of weather issue. Talking about difficulty, the trails are not that difficult excluding some part of it but you need to have strong determination in order to complete the trek.
What is the altitude of the Everest Base Camp, and how do I prepare for high-altitude trekking?
The altitude if Everest base camp is 5364m/17598 feet. You need to be fit and proper acclimatization on the trails is only way to prepare for high-altitude trekking. However you can practice general cardio before going on the trek.
Do I need any special gear or equipment for the trek?
No nothing special but you need to have good boots, pair of waterproof gloves, warm jackets etc. you can check our equipment list in order to get more insights.
How many people can fit in a helicopter, and how long does the helicopter ride take?
Helicopter can accommodate 5 people including captain, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Lukla from Kalapatthar on a helicopter.
Are there any age restrictions for the trek or helicopter ride?
No there aren’t any age restriction but not any child discounts too. Everyone from child to adult or old, head count is done.
What are the accommodations like during the trek?
Accommodation are basic to luxury, it totally depends on what you want to take. We provide descent, clean accommodation with attach bath on available places in our trekking package.
How long is the flight ?
Approximately 15–20 minutes. 45 minutes from Lukla to Kathmandu if you choose to fly back Kathmandu directly.
Is it safe to fly from EBC ?
Yes, the flights are operated by experienced pilots with high-altitude flight training and modern helicopters.
What can I see during the flight?
You'll fly over Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, the Khumbu Icefall, and several Sherpa villages.
Can I take photos or videos?
Absolutely ! This is one of the most photogenic flights in the world - don’t forget your camera.
How many people can fly at once?
Helicopters usually carry 2 passengers from Gorakchep and drop to Lukla.
Travellers Reviews
C
Christopher Alexander carter
Tennessee USA
Fantastic trip !
I have done Everest base camp trekking with helicopter return as I want to experience best of both. helicopter fly over was amazing and trekking too. Definitely returning for another adventure in Nepal with global holidays adventure.
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$2,100 /person
Talk to an expert
Book Now, Pay Later
Free Cancellation Policy
