The Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is a 10-day journey that combines the adventure of trekking with the convenience of a helicopter return. Starting with a breathtaking helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, you'll trek through lush forests, picturesque Sherpa villages, and along stunning mountain trails. With acclimatization days built in, you’ll have ample time to adjust to the altitude while exploring the culture and landscapes of the Khumbu region. After reaching Everest Base Camp and witnessing the sunrise from Kala Patthar, you’ll return to Kathmandu by helicopter, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
Best Seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek
The optimal times for the Everest Base Camp Trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and the best trekking conditions. During these seasons, you'll experience vibrant rhododendron blooms in spring and crisp, clear views in autumn.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty Level
This trek is considered moderately challenging and is suitable for trekkers with a good level of fitness. The route includes long days of hiking, varied terrain, and significant altitude gain. Proper acclimatization and preparation are essential for a successful trek. With the right mindset and physical readiness, this trek is highly rewarding.
Acclimatization Tips for High Altitude
To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, it’s essential to acclimatize properly. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Drink plenty of water, walk at a steady pace, and avoid alcohol. Listen to your body and inform your guide of any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Required Permits for the Everest Base Camp Trek
Two main permits are required for this trek: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These permits are included in the package, and our team will handle all the necessary arrangements, ensuring a smooth trekking experience.
Essential Packing List for the Trek
Packing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and successful trek. Essential items include a good pair of trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, a sturdy backpack, and personal medication. We provide a detailed packing list to help you prepare for all weather conditions and ensure your comfort throughout the trek.
Altitude: The trek reaches high altitudes, with Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters. Proper acclimatization is essential, and extra rest days are included to help with this.
Physical Fitness: This trek requires moderate to good physical fitness, as it involves long trekking days at high altitudes, but the helicopter return eases the effort of coming back.
Helicopter Flight: The helicopter return may be subject to weather conditions, so flexibility in the itinerary is essential.
Best Time to Trek: The trek is best done during spring (March-May) and autumn (Sept-Nov) when the weather is stable, and skies are clear.
You will begin with a warm welcome to Nepal by our team. In the evening, you will meet your guide and fellow trekkers for a welcome briefing. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss the trek, ask questions, and get to know your group. Overnight at the hotel.
Start your adventure with an exhilarating helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and sets the tone for the incredible journey ahead. Upon landing in Lukla, you'll meet your porters and begin your trek to Phakding. The trail descends through lush forests and charming villages, following the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight in Phakding.Start your adventure with an exhilarating helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and sets the tone for the incredible journey ahead. Upon landing in Lukla, you'll meet your porters and begin your trek to Phakding. The trail descends through lush forests and charming villages, following the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight in Phakding.
Today’s trek takes you from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest. The trail crosses several suspension bridges, passes through pine forests, and offers your first glimpse of Everest. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more rugged and the air thinner. Namche Bazaar, a bustling market town, is the perfect place to acclimatize and enjoy the local culture. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization is key to a successful trek. Spend the day exploring Namche Bazaar, visiting the local market, and hiking to the Everest View Hotel. This hike offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, and helps your body adjust to the altitude. In the afternoon, visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Leaving Namche, the trail ascends gradually with stunning views of Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse. As you approach Tengboche, the landscape changes to alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. Tengboche is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. The monastery’s setting, with Ama Dablam in the background, is truly breathtaking. Overnight in Tengboche.
Today’s trek takes you to Dingboche, a picturesque village surrounded by majestic peaks. The trail descends through forests and crosses the Imja Khola before climbing up to the village of Pangboche. As you continue, the landscape becomes more barren and alpine, with fewer trees and more rugged terrain. Dingboche is a perfect place to acclimatize and enjoy the mountain views. Overnight in Dingboche.
Spend another day acclimatizing in Dingboche. You can take short hikes to nearby viewpoints, such as Nagarjun Hill or Chukhung Valley. These hikes offer stunning views of Makalu, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks. Acclimatization days are crucial for your body to adjust to the altitude, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trek. Overnight in Dingboche.
Leaving Dingboche, the trail climbs up to the Pheriche Pass and continues along the Khumbu Glacier. The terrain becomes more rugged, with stunning views of Pumori, Nuptse, and other peaks. You’ll pass through the small settlement of Thukla, where you can see memorials for climbers who have lost their lives on Everest. Lobuche, your destination for the night, is a small village nestled among towering peaks. Overnight in Lobuche.
Today is the most exciting day of the trek as you reach Everest Base Camp. The trail from Lobuche to Gorakshep follows the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. After reaching Gorakshep, you’ll continue to Everest Base Camp, the starting point for climbers aiming for the summit. Spend some time at the base camp, taking in the incredible views and atmosphere, before returning to Gorakshep for the night. Overnight in Gorakshep.
Rise early for a hike to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for a panoramic view of Everest and the surrounding peaks. The climb is steep, but the sunrise over the Himalayas is a sight you’ll never forget. After descending back to Gorakshep, you’ll take a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, bypassing the trek down and providing an unforgettable aerial perspective of the Himalayas. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Airport transfers
Helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and from Gorakshep to Kathmandu
Accommodation in Kathmandu (two nights) and during the trek
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Experienced and licensed trekking guide and porters
Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
Domestic flight tickets for guide and porters
Comprehensive medical kit
Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
All government and local taxes
International airfare to and from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fees
Travel insurance (must cover helicopter evacuation)
Personal expenses (drinks, souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
Tips for guides and porters
Any costs not mentioned in the inclusions
Trekking Boots: Sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof boots that are broken in before the trek.
Backpack: A durable, comfortable backpack with a capacity of 40-50 liters for carrying personal items.
Sleeping Bag: A warm sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -20°C.
Trekking Poles: Adjustable trekking poles to help with balance and reduce strain on knees.
Clothing Layers: Thermal base layers, fleece jacket, down jacket, waterproof and windproof shell jacket, and trekking pants.
Headwear: Warm hat, sun hat, and buff or neck gaiter for protection against wind and cold.
Gloves: Insulated gloves for warmth and lightweight liner gloves for versatility.
Socks: Moisture-wicking trekking socks and warm thermal socks for cold nights.
Footwear: Lightweight camp shoes or sandals for evenings.
Hydration System: Hydration bladder or water bottles with a total capacity of at least 2 liters.
Sunglasses: High-quality sunglasses with UV protection.
Headlamp: A reliable headlamp with extra batteries.
First Aid Kit: Personal medications, blister treatment, pain relievers, and basic first aid supplies.
Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, wet wipes, and toilet paper.
The cost typically ranges from $1399 to $1500 per person, including all necessary fees and breakfast at the Everest View Hotel.
The total ride duration is around three hours, with additional time spent at key locations like Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
Yes, safety is our top priority. Our helicopters are well-maintained, and our pilots are experienced in high-altitude flights.
Dress in layers and bring warm clothing, including a down jacket, gloves, and a hat. The temperatures can be quite cold at high altitudes.
The trek is considered moderately challenging, requiring a good level of fitness. Trekkers will face long days of hiking, varied terrain, and significant altitude gain. Proper acclimatization and preparation are essential for a successful trek.
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for the Everest Base Camp Trek. It should cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies.
Accommodation during the trek is in teahouses, which are basic lodges offering simple meals and a warm place to sleep. In Kathmandu, you will stay in a comfortable hotel.
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided during the trek. The menu includes a variety of local and international dishes, ensuring you are well-nourished for the journey.
A detailed packing list is provided, including essentials such as trekking boots, layered clothing, a warm sleeping bag, trekking poles, hydration system, and personal first-aid kit.
Yes, the trek requires two main permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These permits are included in the package, and our team will handle all the arrangements.
Our itinerary includes acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the altitude. Our guides are trained to recognize symptoms of altitude sickness and will take appropriate action, including descending if necessary.
Preparation includes regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and hiking practice. It's also important to break in your trekking boots and practice carrying a loaded backpack.
The best times to trek to Everest Base Camp are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable weather conditions, making for the best trekking experience.
The trek is considered moderately challenging, requiring a good level of fitness. Trekkers will face long days of hiking, varied terrain, and significant altitude gain. Proper acclimatization and preparation are essential for a successful trek.
The Everest Base Camp Heli Trek offers a thrilling blend of trekking and luxury, allowing adventurers to experience the stunning landscapes of the Khumbu region on foot before returning by helicopter. This 12-day Himalayan adventure provides an unparalleled view of Mount Everest and its surrounding peaks, combined with the comfort of a swift and scenic helicopter ride back to Kathmandu. Participants can expect challenging yet rewarding trekking days, visits to iconic spots like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery, and an exhilarating helicopter flight over the Himalayas. The Everest Base Camp Heli Trek is perfect for those seeking a unique and efficient way to explore the Everest region.
