5550m, Kalapather
2 Days arrival & Departure
2 Days Rest day
7 Days Trek
1 Day Flight
March, April, May
October, November, Dec
11 Breakfast,
9 Lunch
9 Dinner
2 Nights at Hotel in Kathmandu
9 Nights at Lodge
Private Vehicle, Flight, Helicopter
Overview
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return offers a unique and thrilling way to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. This package is perfect for adventurers seeking to explore Mt. Everest region in a shorter time frame.
Despite its shorter duration, the trek doesn't compromise on adventure or scenic splendor. Covering approximately 65 km, it provides an unforgettable journey to the foothills of Everest. By concluding the trek with a helicopter return from Gorakshep (5,140 meters), the trekking duration is halved, reducing the strain of one of the world's toughest treks. The helicopter ride offers a bird's-eye view of majestic mountain ranges, high-altitude settlements, valleys, and lush hills, providing a perfect conclusion to this high Himalayan adventure.
Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return Details
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return from Gorak Shep to Lukla is ideal for adventurers seeking a shorter yet luxurious exploration of Everest Base Camp. This journey combines the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas with the convenience of a helicopter return tour, offering an unforgettable experience.
Venture on a scenic 35-minute flight to Lukla, the starting point for Everest Region Treks. From there, trek through Sherpa settlements, entering the Sagarmatha National Park and crossing suspension bridges to reach iconic villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pangboche, and Lobuche. Finally, arrive at Everest Base Camp, a moment of celebration amidst breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
The adventure continues with a climb to Kala Patthar, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the world's highest peaks, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Descend to Gorak Shep and conclude the trek with a scenic helicopter flight back to Lukla, enjoying spectacular views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys. Further ahead, take a thrilling flight from Lukla to Kathmandu ending your adventurous Everest endeavor.
Route
After a flight eastward from Kathmandu, within 30-35 minutes, you'll land at Lukla, home to the renowned Tenzing-Hillary Airport, nestled amidst towering hills and boasting a modest commercial town. From Lukla, your trek follows the Dudh Koshi River basin, leading northwards to Phakding before embarking on a steep ascent towards Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa settlement shaped like an amphitheater. Namche Bazaar serves as a bustling hub for last-minute essentials and entertainment options.
Continuing onwards, the trek traverses through remote Sherpa settlements, passing through Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorakshep until reaching the ultimate destination, Everest Base Camp. While the journey mirrors the classic Everest Base Camp Trek from Lukla, the return leg offers a less strenuous option with an AS350 B3 Helicopter awaiting at Gorak Shep for a thrilling aerial journey back to Lukla.
Compared to traditional treks in the Everest region, this unique trek presents an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Everest range massifs from a bird's-eye perspective. As you ascend during takeoff, prepare to be mesmerized by the picturesque vista featuring Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Ama Dablam, Mount Nuptse, Mount Khumbutse, and more, painting a breathtaking scene against the horizon.
Best Time
The best time for trekking to Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return are during the spring and autumn seasons. While trekking remains possible in summer and winter, these seasons pose challenges due to adverse weather conditions, requiring prior trekking experience.
Spring, spanning from March to May, offers a blend of warm temperatures and captivating mountain landscapes. Similarly, autumn, from September to November, boasts pleasant weather and breathtaking mountain vistas in Nepal.
Winter, occurring from December to February, brings cold temperatures and snow-covered terrain, yet offers stunning mountain views. Despite rains in the lower regions, trekking remains viable in the upper regions during summer, from June to August, though it is less favored due to potential weather uncertainties. That being said, opting for a trip during this period allows for a quieter experience. Below given table shows the range of temperature in various months in Everest region along the year.
Month | Temperature | |
Upper Extreme | Lower Extreme | |
January | 5°C | -20°C |
February | 7°C | -17°C |
March | 9°C | -10°C |
April | 12°C | -5°C |
May | 15°C | 0°C |
June | 18°C | 5°C |
July | 20°C | 7°C |
August | 20°C | 7°C |
September | 18°C | 5°C |
October | 12°C | -5°C |
November | 9°C | -10°C |
December | 7°C | -15°C |
Difficulty
For beginners, especially those unfamiliar with Himalayan trekking, embarking on the Helicopter Return Everest Base Camp Trek can be daunting due to the rugged terrain and potential hazards along the route. Each day of the journey requires a minimum of 5 to 6 hours of hiking, navigating steep inclines and declines on challenging terrain. Physical and mental fitness is essential for this demanding trek, as it involves traversing remote, mountainous landscapes with elevations exceeding 4000m, increasing the risk of altitude sickness.
Trekkers must prepare to encounter various obstacles such as small cliffs, rocky paths, meadows, deep valleys, and boulder-strewn trails. Building abdominal strength and endurance is crucial to overcoming these challenges. The length and difficulty of the trek may prove overwhelming for novices unaccustomed to such conditions.
Cost of Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
The cost of a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla varies depending on the season and time of year of your trek. During the peak seasons of Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November), which are considered prime times for trekking in Nepal, the cost tends to decrease. However, if you're trekking during the off-season of Winter (December-February) or Summer (June-August), prices may be higher.
This fluctuation in cost is primarily due to the availability of helicopters at Lukla during peak seasons and the availability of multiple charter flights for the return journey. It's important to book your flight in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free return journey. Please send us an inquiry and the Himalaya trip will respond back with competitive rates for your requirements.
Helicopters used in this Tour
Different airlines may use various types of helicopters for the EBC trek with Heli return tour, with the choice depending on the company. Typically, an Airbus B350 helicopter is favored for its capability to traverse high altitudes beyond 5000 meters. Alternatively, Robinson R66 and R44 helicopters may be used, but these are limited to lower elevations, with a maximum of 3800 meters.
Helicopters utilized for the Gorak Shep to Lukla route are designed to accommodate a maximum of five individuals. If you have a group of five people, it's advisable to book your return flight through your agent in advance. Alternatively, solo travelers or couples may opt to share the helicopter with other passengers.
Due to the higher elevation at Gorak Shep, the helicopter will first transport three passengers from Gorak Shep to Pheriche, then return to Gorak Shep to pick up the remaining two passengers. Once all five passengers are assembled in Pheriche, the helicopter will depart for Lukla.
Outline
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Fly to Lukla , trek to Phakding 2610m, 8 km walk
Day 03: Trek Phakding – Namche 3440m ,11 km walk
Day 04: Rest day
Day 05: Namche – Tengboche 3860m ,9 km walk
Day 06: Tengboche – Dingboche, 4410m, 10 km walk
Day 07: Rest day
Day 08: Dingboche – Lobuche 4910m, 8 km walk
Day 09: Lobuche – Gorakh shep 5140m – Everest Base Camp 5364m, 11 km walk
Day 10: Visit Kalapather , helicopter return to Lukla
Day 11: Lukla – Kathmandu
Day 12: Final departure home
Daily Itinerary
Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival in Kathmandu
Hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International airport, you will be received by our representative at the arrival gate. You will then board your vehicle and drive towards your respective hotel. The rest of the day is leisure and if you wish to explore the surroundings, we can make necessary arrangements in accordance. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02 Fly to Lukla , trek to Phakding
Fly to Lukla , trek to Phakding
2610m, Phakding 35 minutes flight, 8km or 3 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Your adventure to Everest Base Camp begins with an early morning drive towards Tribhuvan International Airport , domestic terminal. Upon boarding the flight, you will bank eastward towards the Himalayan odyssey, Everest region. This 35 minutes flight is enthralling and full of magnificent views of rural landscape, mountains and hills. Upon landing in Lukla, you will meet your porters and commence the journey. Lukla is a lively village inhabited by Sherpa community members. Walking through the main pathway of this bustling village, you'll come across various shops selling souvenirs, sweets, clothing, as well as numerous restaurants and lodges. Today's trek is relatively short, lasting about three hours, and follows a simple downhill route. Lukla sits at an elevation of 2840 meters, while your destination for the night, Phakding, is at 2610 meters. This part of the journey involves a gradual descent along the Dudh Koshi River as you head towards Phakding for your overnight stay.
Note: All the flight operates from Ramechhap to Lukla in the months of April, May , October and November. You will drive early in the morning from Kathmandu to Ramechhap and fly from there. If you do not want to go Ramechhap, the sharing Helicopter is available from Kathmandu - Lukla.
Day 03 Trek Phakding – Namche
Trek Phakding – Namche
3440m, Namche 11 km or 5-6 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Embarking from Phakding, your journey towards Namche Bazaar will lead you to considerably higher elevations. Departing Phakding, your initial stop is Jorsalle, signaling the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where presenting your permits is obligatory. Soon after, you'll encounter the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, comprising two layers spanning the vibrant Dudh Koshi River. Adorned with vivid Buddhist prayer flags, these bridges infuse your trek with a sense of spirituality. Following the bridges, the path steepens, winding its way along a rugged dirt trail. You'll traverse several sections paved with stones before reaching Namche Bazaar by nightfall.
Shaped like an amphitheater, Namche Bazaar eagerly awaits your arrival as a lively Sherpa village. Though today's ascent demands effort, the tranquility of this village renders it a fulfilling destination. Functioning as the bustling commercial hub of the Everest region, Namche Bazaar brims with an array of shops, dining venues, pubs, and entertainment establishments. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the village to fully immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and explore the myriad offerings it holds.
Day 04 Rest day
Rest day
3880m, Everest View Point 6km or 3-4 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Today, we enjoyed a well-deserved break in Namche Bazaar. Our morning agenda begins with a hike to Hotel Everest View, a renowned spot offering our first glimpse of Mt. Everest. This excursion promises breathtaking panoramic views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, Kongde Ri, Khumbila, and many other majestic peaks. Depending on our energy levels and preferences, we can opt to extend our trek to Khumjung Monastery or simply return to Namche Bazaar for a laid-back day of relaxation.
Namche Bazaar stands as the largest Sherpa community in the Khumbu region. Beyond its cultural significance, it serves as a bustling tourist hub, replete with cafes, bars, souvenir shops, eateries, and museums. The town exudes a vibrant atmosphere that might pleasantly surprise you. If your visit coincides with a Saturday, don't miss the bustling Saturday Market.
Day 05 Namche – Tengboche
Namche – Tengboche
3860m, Tengboche 9 km or 5-6 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Today you'll embark on a challenging journey from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, facing a substantial elevation gain of nearly 4,000 feet or 1,200 meters. Despite the demanding ascent, this day promises abundant rewards, offering breathtaking views of the distant Everest Mountain Range throughout the trek. Although Tengboche sits only 1,378 feet or 420 meters higher in elevation than Namche Bazaar, the day's hike involves gaining more than double that amount.
The elevation profile chart vividly depicts this challenge, revealing a significant descent halfway along the trail before ascending again, surpassing the initial elevation gain during the latter part of the journey. Initially, the path leads straight ahead, then descends to the Imja-tse river before steeply ascending to reach Tengboche village, offering a picturesque vista of the majestic Mt. Ama Dablam (6812m). Nestled in the heart of Tengboche village lies the largest monastery in Nepal, Tengboche Monastery. If you wish to, you can take part in the daily procession prayer at the monastery. The entry fee for Monastery entry is Rs.300 per person.
Day 06 Tengboche – Dingboche
Tengboche – Dingboche
4410m, Dingboche 10 km or 4-5 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Dingboche, yet another Sherpa settlement, is famed for its flourishing agriculture and domestic animal rearing. These areas offer splendid vistas, inviting you to engage with the locals and explore the bountiful fields. Notably, the primary crop cultivated by most farmers in this region is potatoes. The journey from Tengboche to Dingboche typically lasts around 4 to 5 hours, allowing for lunch breaks. The trekking trail is generally moderate, with only a few steep climbs, and much of it follows the Dudh Koshi river basin. The serene and vibrant panoramic views of Everest from Dingboche are truly mesmerizing, leaving you awestruck as the majestic Everest massifs loom ever closer.
Day 07 Rest day
Rest day
5083m 3-4 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Another day dawns on your Everest Base Camp trek as you take a day to acclimatize in Dingboche, adjusting to the higher elevation. Dingboche, surrounded by captivating peaks, offers continuous allure throughout your stay. For optimal views of the surrounding Everest massifs, consider trekking to NangkarTshang Peak, situated 2000 feet above the village of Dingboche. The roundtrip journey to the peak's summit typically takes 3-4 hours. Embark on this hike after breakfast, returning in time for lunch back in Dingboche. There's ample to discover and observe in Dingboche; spend the remainder of the day exploring the rural Sherpa way of life. Overnight accommodation will be in Dingboche.
Day 08 Dingboche – Lobuche
Dingboche – Lobuche
4910m, Lobuche 8 km or 5-6 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
As you depart Dingboche and make your way towards Lobuche today, you'll notice the gradual increase in altitude. Dingboche serves as a pivotal point for trekkers heading towards Everest's three passes via Chukkung, as well as our own trail. The path to Lobuche leads through the stark terrain at the foot of semi-arid hills for the majority of the journey. After about three hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Thukla, a village serving as a junction for both the Everest Base Camp trek and the Gokyo Lake trek via Chugyuma La (5420m). Opting for the northern route along the Khumbu Glacier, you'll encounter the first pass of this trek, Thokla Pass (4830m), before continuing straight on to Lobuche, situated at an altitude of 4910 meters.Along this route, you'll encounter numerous memorials honoring climbers who have passed away. It's advisable to maintain a steady pace as the elevation is significant and the air is noticeably thin, making breathing more challenging.
Day 09 Lobuche – Gorakh shep – Everest Base Camp
Lobuche – Gorakh shep – Everest Base Camp
5364m, Everest Base Camp 11 km or 7-8 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Following breakfast at your lodging in Lobuche, you'll set out on a relatively short trek lasting around 3 to 4 hours to reach Gorak Shep. However, this leg of the journey elevates beyond 5,000 meters, so it's essential to remain vigilant for symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness. The initial part of the trek remains mostly level, occasionally inclining as you near Lobuche Pass. Yaks are a common sight along the route, employed for logistical purposes. The trail from Lobuche to Gorak Shep guides you through the extensive glacial moraines of the Khumbu Glacier. It entails navigating narrow, rocky paths across the glacier, leading to Gorak Shep via uneven terrain. Upon arrival at Gorak Shep, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic vista of the Everest mountain range enveloping you. Following lunch in Gorak Shep, you'll gear up for your excursion to Everest Base Camp.
The path from Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp unfolds across relatively even ground but is strewn with large rock boulders, glacial moraines, and sandy terrain, tracing alongside the debris left by the Khumbu Glacier. Everest Base Camp itself presents a remarkable spectacle, extending across the vast glacial expanse. Here, you'll stand at the gateway to the Khumbu Glacier, marking the initial step toward the summit of Mt. Everest. Following an exploration of the base camp, you'll return to Gorak Shep for your overnight accommodation.
Day 10 Visit Kalapather , helicopter return to Lukla
Visit Kalapather , helicopter return to Lukla
5550m, Kalapather 3 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Starting from Gorakshep, you'll embark on an exceptional hike towards Kalapathar, a highlight of today's adventure. The journey involves a challenging uphill trek from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar. Initially, the trail leads to the base of Kalapathar and then continues along rocky and uneven terrain towards the summit. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Everest panorama. After approximately 30 minutes at the summit, you'll descend back to Gorak Shep to begin your return journey. Following your hike, you'll be escorted to the departure spot for our helicopter at Gorak Shep. The typical duration of the helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla is approximately 15 minutes, subject to weather conditions. The flight offers picturesque views as it navigates through the narrow gorges of the Khumbu region. Along the way, you'll pass over the small villages that served as your stopovers on your ascent to the base camp. Upon reaching Lukla, you will disembark the Heli and will head to your hotel where you will stay for the night.
Day 11 Lukla – Kathmandu
Lukla – Kathmandu
1340m 35 minutes flight B, Hotel
You will take an early morning flight that leaves Lukla. The aerial trail will follow through banking west flying over the rural landscape of the area. You will witness the surreal views of Himalayan mountains to the north which will include: Gaurishankar range, Langtang Range and Rolwaling range. After 435 minutes of thrilling flight, you will land at the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Hereon after, our representative will pick you up and drive towards your hotel in Kathmandu. Rest of the day is leisure for you, so, unwind at the hotel or explore the alleyways of Kathmandu.
Note: All the flight operates from Lukla to Ramechhap in the months of April, May , October and November. You will drive from Ramechhap to Kathmandu. If you do not want to go Ramechhap, the sharing Helicopter is available from Lukla - Kathmandu.
Day 12 Final departure home
Final departure home
B
You will be driven to the airport terminal on your scheduled flight time. We bid farewell until your next Himalayan adventure in Nepal.
Whats Included?
- Pick-up and drop-off service at Trivuwan International Airport in Kathmandu by private Car/Van/Bus depending on group size.
- 2 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu on BB Plan.
- Sagarmatha National park fee and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entrance fee.
- Kathmandu- Lukla - Kathmandu flight ticket with Airport departure tax.
- Gorak Shep - Lukla by Helicopter.
- All the meals (11 Breakfast, 9 Lunch, 9 Dinner) with 9 Nights at Lodge accommodation during the trek.
- 2 Hot Shower (One in Namche and One in Lukla ).
- One English speaking government certificate holder trekking guide and trekkers 2:1 porter.
- Guide and porters: foods, accommodation, insurance, salary, flight ticket, and equipment etc.
- First Aids Kid.
- Seasonal fresh fruit such as Apple and Pomegranates etc.
- Duffel Bag.
- Fingertip Pulse Oximeter (we use every day to check your oxygen level and pulse in your body to avoid high risk ).
- Himalaya Trip T-shirt.
- 13% government VAT and official charge.
Whats not Included?
- International airfare and visa fee (15 Days US$30 and 30 Days US$50).
- Hotel and meals in Kathmandu.
- All the drinks like tea, coffee, Coke, Fanta, mineral water, boiled water, hot shower, battery charge etc.
- Your trekking gears.
- Your travel insurance which should include the emergency rescue.
- Tips for guide and porters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
There are two Base Camps on Everest. The south Base camp is Nepal side and North Base Camp is from China.
The cost to trek Everest Base Camp will depend on which package you have taken, For Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return will cost you USD 1725 - USD 1925 per person.
There are different package and during of this trek . If you choose Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return, it will be 10 Days trip. You will hike 6 days, 2 days acclimatization day and 1 day helicopter return and last day is flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
Fitness is very important for this trek. Regular walking steps up and down hill will be helpful for you. Accept that, you do walking , treadmill, cycling, cardio exercises etc.
The Lodges have bed, bed sheets, pillow and light blankets. You have to bring -20 C' Sleeping bag for this trek.
Sleeping at Lobuche 4910m and Gorak Shep 5140m with visiting Everest Base Camp 5364m and Kalapather 5550m are most difficult part of this trek.
There are different categories Lodges are built on the route of Everest Base Camp. You may choose Budget, comfortable, Luxury Lodges according to your budget.
In our pass history, 90 - 95% trekkers successfully reach the Everest Base Camp . But 5-10% trekkers get altitude sickness.
If you are physically fit and no problem walking step up and step down hill , you can do this trek.
Mt. Everest 8848.86m is the world highest peak in the world. So, trekkers or adventure lovers wants to see Everest and visit Everest Base Camp, so it is so popular.
March, April, May, Mid September, October, November and mid December are the best time to visit Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return.
Highest point of Annapurna Circuit is Thorong La Pass 5416m and Highest Point of EBC Trek with Helicopter return are Everest Base Camp 5364m and Kalapather 5550m. Everest Base Camp is harder than Annapurna Circuit because you will need to sleep at Lobuche 4910m and Gorak Shep 5149m to do EBC and Kalapather. For Annapurna Circuit , highest point to sleep at Thorong Phedi 4450m and go over the Thorong La pass and descend to Muktinath at 3760 m.
Important Note
Available of the trip
We organise small group private trip. If you are 2 or more people in your group, you may book any dates.
Travel Insurance
The travel insurance is need in case of any emergency. It is recommend to have. If you are doing short and low elevation trek, you can do normal insurance. But if you are doing high altitude or adventure trek, you should have emergency rescue.
Last Minute booking
Normally, trekkers plan the trip before 3-9 months. Some trekkers decide the trip in last minutes. It is also possible to book your trek at last minutes. For the Last minutes booking, you need to make a full payment.
Tipping
Tipping is highly expected. Our staffs try their best during the trip. After the trip, Tipping is expected. It is not fixed amount or percentage. We recommend the tipping according to their services.
Safety
When you are travelling, the safety is most important. For the safety of our clients, we trained our guide and porters. They are all register trekking / Tour / Climbing guide and experience porters.
Extra personal expenses
For the extra expenses, it is good to bring USD / Euro / Pound Sterling or ther currency. You may change to Nepali Rupees (NPR) at Tribhuwan International Airport or near your Hotel in Kathmandu. You will use only Nepali rupees during the trip.
Nepal visa
Accept few countries , you will get on arrival Nepal’s Visa at the Tribhuwan International Airport or Nepal board. I recommend to fill up Nepal Visa online form and bring it with you. It will be faster and easy for you and visa fee is recommended to bring cash US dollar. You can’t pay by using credit card.
Trip extension or Itinerary Disclaimer
We organize small group private trip. The trip extension is possible but you have to figure out when you booking the trip.
Group joing and Fixed departure
Most of the time, we have small group private trip. Group joining or fixed departure will be available only at the clients request.
Luggage store
You are not taking all the lugguage on the trek. You will take only necessary gears on the trek and rest of the gears, you will store at your Hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara or in our office in Kathmandu. All the Hotels have free luggage store services. It is more convenient to store at your Hotel.
Responsible travel
- Ask permission to photograph people.
- Do not remove or purchase antiques, it is illegal.
- Avoid wearing revealing clothes and avoid outward displays of physical affection.
- Do not anything to disturb environment or wild animals.
Domestic flight
Normally, domestic flight is not on time. If you have international flight with domestic connection flight. It is always better to keep some gaps.
Trek Booking
For the Booking, we need passport copy, passport size photo by email or What's App and 20% deposit.
Why Himalaya Trip ?
- Fast response
- Small group private trek
- Safety is top priority
- Recommended on TripAdvisor
- Tailor made itinerary
- Seasonal package
- 200 plus trekkers take service every year
- 30-40% repeated customer