Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek – 11 Day
Best Season
Highest Altitude
Trip Overview
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek is the perfect blend of adventure and convenience. The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek  offers trekkers the chance to explore the majestic Everest region without the need to retrace their steps. This 12-day adventure is designed for those who wish to reach the iconic Everest Base Camp and then enjoy a scenic helicopter ride back. This unique return provides a stunning perspective of the Himalayas.
The Journey Begins: From Kathmandu to Lukla
Your journey starts with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From here, the trek takes you through the heart of the Khumbu Valley. You’ll walk along trails surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks. As you progress, you’ll pass through vibrant Sherpa villages, each offering a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of the local people.
Exploring Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery
One of the trek’s highlights is a stop at Namche Bazaar, known as the Sherpa capital. This bustling hub serves as an acclimatization point and a gateway to explore the region’s culture. As you trek further, you’ll visit the Tengboche Monastery. This is one of the most important spiritual centers in the region, set against the backdrop of towering peaks like Ama Dablam. The peaceful ambiance and stunning views make this a memorable stop on your journey.
Reaching Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar
Continuing onward, the trek leads you to the ultimate destination: Everest Base Camp, at 5,364 meters. Here, you’ll stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain, surrounded by awe-inspiring glaciers and icefalls. But the adventure doesn’t end there. The following morning, you’ll hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) for a breathtaking sunrise view of Mount Everest. This vantage point offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Himalayas, making it one of the highlights of the trek.
The Thrilling Helicopter Ride Back
After soaking in the views from Kala Patthar, you’ll board a helicopter at Gorak Shep for an exhilarating flight back to Lukla. This helicopter ride provides stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, offering a unique end to your journey.
Trip Highlights:
- Trek through the heart of the Khumbu region, experiencing the Sherpa culture.
- Visit iconic sites such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Kala Patthar.
- Reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters.
- Enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride back to Lukla with stunning aerial views of the Himalayas.
- Experience the hospitality of Sherpa culture and stay in cozy teahouses.
- Accommodation: Stay in comfortable teahouses during the trek; standard hotels in Kathmandu.
- Meals: Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu.
- Luggage: Porters provided for luggage transport (up to 15 kg per person).
- Internet/WiFi, Electricity, and Water: Available at most lodges along the trekking route (additional charges may apply); complimentary WiFi in Kathmandu hotels.
Essential Items:
- Base Layers: Thermal top and bottom
- Insulation: Fleece jacket and down jacket
- Outer Layer: Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking Clothes: Some pairs of trekking pants, quick-dry shirts
- Footwear: Trekking boots, camp shoes/sandals
- Headwear: Sun hat, warm hat, neck gaiter
- Hand-wear: Lightweight gloves, insulated gloves
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm , headlamp with extra batteries , trekking poles ,50-60L backpack + daypack
Personal Items: Hygiene essentials (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes), Quick-dry towel ,Water bottle or hydration system (2L capacity), Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
Medical Kit: Personal medications, basic first aid, altitude sickness pills
Documents: Passport, trekking permits, travel insurance
Optional: Camera, power bank, Lightweight sleeping bag
Itinerary
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. You will have time to rest and relax after your flight or explore some of the vibrant streets of Thamel. In the evening, you'll attend a pre-trek briefing to meet your guide, discuss the itinerary, and prepare for the journey ahead. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.
Your day starts with a thrilling early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town perched at 2,800 meters in the Khumbu region. The 35-minute flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas, setting the tone for your adventure. Upon arrival in Lukla, you'll meet the rest of your trekking team, including porters. From Lukla, you’ll begin your trek with a gradual descent towards Phakding. The trail takes you through Sherpa villages, terraced fields, and pine forests, offering your first glimpses of the local culture and natural beauty. You’ll arrive at Phakding after approximately 3-4 hours of walking and stay overnight at a cozy teahouse.
After breakfast in Phakding, you’ll continue your trek towards Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. You’ll pass through the entry point of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, where your permits will be checked. The final section of the trek includes a challenging ascent to Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town built on a hillside with stunning views of the Himalayas. This trek will take approximately 5-6 hours. You will spend the night at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar.
Today is set aside for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You can explore Namche Bazaar, visit local markets, cafes, and bakeries, or hike up to the Everest View Hotel for a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. This optional hike also takes you through the quaint villages of Khumjung and Khunde, where you can visit the Hillary School and Khunde Hospital, built by Sir Edmund Hillary. In the afternoon, you can return to Namche for some rest and relaxation. Overnight at a teahouse in Namche Bazaar.
Leaving Namche Bazaar, you will embark on a scenic trek to Tengboche, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region. The trail offers spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as it winds through rhododendron forests and across the Imja Khola River. After a gradual descent, you will climb up to Tengboche, home to the region's largest and most significant monastery, the Tengboche Monastery. Here, you can witness a Buddhist ceremony and enjoy the serene ambiance of the place, with a stunning backdrop of the Himalayas. Overnight at a local teahouse in Tengboche.
Today, you will trek from Tengboche to Dingboche, passing through the villages of Deboche and Pangboche. The trail descends through lush forests before crossing the Imja Khola via a suspension bridge. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more barren, with fewer trees and more open meadows. You will trek through the quaint village of Pangboche and continue on a gradual incline to Dingboche, known as the "summer valley" of the region, where you will stay overnight at a teahouse.
Dingboche is a beautiful village nestled in the Imja Valley, and today you’ll take another acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude. You can choose to relax and explore the village or take a short hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m), which offers stunning views of Lobuche East, Kangtega, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks. This hike also helps with acclimatization by promoting higher altitude exposure. You will return to Dingboche and spend the night at a local teahouse.
The trek from Dingboche to Lobuche is a gradual ascent, taking you closer to Everest Base Camp. The trail passes through Dughla (Thukla), where you’ll see memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. A steep climb up to Thukla Pass is followed by a relatively easier trek along the Khumbu Glacier’s lateral moraine to Lobuche. The day’s trek offers magnificent views of peaks such as Pumori, Lingtren, and Khumbutse. You will spend the night at a teahouse in Lobuche.
Today is the day you reach Everest Base Camp! You’ll begin with a gradual trek to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a brief stop for lunch, you will continue to Everest Base Camp, following the trail that winds along the Khumbu Glacier. At base camp, you’ll be surrounded by glaciers, icefalls, and towering peaks, standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain. After spending some time at base camp, you will trek back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay at a teahouse.
You’ll start early in the morning for a hike to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek, renowned for its panoramic views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The sunrise view from Kala Patthar is truly spectacular and an unforgettable highlight of the trek. After soaking in the views and capturing memories, you will return to Lukla by a helicopter , enjoying stunning aerial views of the mountains.
After that you will board on a helicopter proceeding back to Kathmandu. Hence, the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek comes to an end. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your flight time, you may have some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu. Our representative will assist you with your departure, bidding you farewell and hoping to see you again for another adventure in the Himalayas.
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Mr. Shishir Dhakal
Price Inclusion
- Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
- Airport pickups and drop-offs in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Domestic flight (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu).
- Helicopter return from Everest Base Camp to Lukla.
- An experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed guide.
- Porters to carry luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers).
- Sagarmatha National Park permits and TIMS.
- First aid medical kit.
- All government and local taxes.
Price Exclusion
- International airfare.
- Nepal visa fee.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, etc.).
- Tips for guides and porters.
Additional Information
Trip Map
Meals and Accommodation on Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek
In Kathmandu, you will stay in a standard hotel equipped with modern amenities, including complimentary WiFi. This comfortable accommodation allows you to relax and prepare for the trek.Along the trek, you’ll stay in teahouses that provide cozy rooms with basic amenities. Rooms are typically shared or twin-sharing setups, with communal dining areas where you can enjoy meals and socialize with other trekkers. Facilities like hot showers, charging outlets, and WiFi are available in most lodges, though additional charges may apply.
Full-Board Meals including Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided during the trek, featuring a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and international influences. Common dishes include dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, soups, and potatoes, all providing hearty sustenance for trekking
In Kathmandu, Breakfast is included at your hotel. For other meals, you’ll have access to a range of local and international dining options in the city.
Best Season for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek
The optimal times for trekking to Everest Base Camp are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when stable weather and clear skies make for favorable conditions.
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild temperatures with blooming rhododendrons and clear skies.
- Temperature:
- Lower elevations (2,860m to 3,500m): 10°C to 20°C during the day, 0°C to 5°C at night.
- Higher elevations (up to 5,545m): -5°C to 10°C during the day, -15°C to -5°C at night.
- Highlights: Vibrant landscapes and moderate temperatures create ideal trekking conditions and beautiful views, especially for climbing Kala Patthar.
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Stable and clear skies with comfortable temperatures.
- Temperature:
- Lower elevations (2,860m to 3,500m): 10°C to 20°C during the day, 0°C to 5°C at night.
- Higher elevations (up to 5,545m): -5°C to 10°C during the day, -15°C to -5°C at night.
- Highlights: Post-monsoon clarity offers breathtaking views, making it one of the most popular seasons for trekking and capturing panoramic vistas of Everest.
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cold conditions with potential snowfall at higher altitudes.
- Temperature:
- Lower elevations (2,860m to 3,500m): 0°C to 10°C during the day, -5°C to 0°C at night.
- Higher elevations (up to 5,545m): -10°C to -5°C during the day, -20°C to -10°C at night.
- Challenges: Fewer trekkers and quieter trails. Colder weather and potential snowfall can make some areas more challenging to access.
Monsoon/Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Warm and humid at lower altitudes, with frequent rain.
- Temperature:
- Lower elevations (2,860m to 3,500m): 15°C to 25°C during the day, 5°C to 10°C at night.
- Higher elevations (up to 5,545m): -5°C to 10°C during the day, -10°C to -5°C at night.
- Challenges: Rain and fog may limit views, but the lush landscapes and quieter trails provide a unique experience for those who trek during this season.
Equipment Checklist
For the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek, a mix of comfort and functionality is key to fully enjoying the journey. This checklist covers essential items to ensure you’re well-prepared for both the cultural tour and the high-altitude helicopter experience.
1. Clothing
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms for warmth and comfort. Lightweight, breathable materials are ideal.
- Mid Layers: Fleece or lightweight down jackets to provide warmth in cooler conditions.
- Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jackets to protect against unpredictable weather. Look for breathable options.
- Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants. Thermal pants may be useful for cooler early mornings.
- Gloves, Hat, and Buff: Warm gloves, a woolen hat, and a buff or neck gaiter to keep you comfortable in colder air at higher altitudes.
- Trekking Socks: High-quality, moisture-wicking socks (3 pairs recommended) to prevent blisters and keep feet dry.
2. Footwear
- Trekking Boots: Waterproof, sturdy boots with good ankle support. Be sure they are well broken-in to avoid discomfort.
- Camp Shoes or Sandals: Lightweight footwear for comfort at tea houses or lodges.
3. Backpack and Storage
- Daypack (20-30 liters): A comfortable pack with a rain cover for essentials like water, snacks, and extra layers.
- Dry Bags or Ziplock Bags: To protect electronics, documents, and clothing from moisture.
4. Trekking Gear
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable poles can help with stability and reduce strain, especially on rough terrain.
- Water Bottles and Purification: Reusable water bottles with purification tablets or a small filter to ensure access to clean water.
5. Health and First Aid
- Personal First Aid Kit: Essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF sunscreen and lip balm to protect against intense UV rays.
- Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes: Useful for hygiene when water is limited.
6. Personal Items and Extras
- Snacks and Energy Bars: Lightweight, high-energy snacks for a quick boost.
- Sunglasses with UV Protection: Protect your eyes from strong sunlight and glare.
- Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning landscapes; bring extra batteries or a portable charger.
- Personal Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a small quick-dry towel.
- Cash: Bring enough local currency for expenses along the trail, as ATMs are not available in remote areas.
7. Documents
- Passport and Visa: Carry your passport, visa, and copies in a waterproof pouch.
- Permits: TIMS card and any relevant permits, like the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit.
- Travel Insurance Details: Ensure comprehensive coverage for high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses.
Final Tips
- Pack Light: Aim to keep your daypack under 10-15 kg for a more enjoyable trip.
- Layer Up: Layering is crucial for adapting to Nepal’s varied weather. Bring versatile, easily removable clothing.
- Double-Check Essentials: Before setting off, confirm you have all necessary items for a comfortable and safe tour.
