In a world full of tourism possibilities, Nepal is a paradise for adventures like high-altitude trekking. It is a mountainous country inbuilt with eye-pleasing mountains, hills, basins, valleys, and dun areas that attracts visitors from around the globe. It is home to the world’s highest mountain ranges, which feature the tallest peak Mount Everest and many others above 8000 meters. While trekking has been a popular activity in the country, the customization of available hikes has attracted even more people. On that note, Exciting Nepal brings one unique blend of treks, Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter.
Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter offers trekking opportunities and an unforgettable trip through rugged terrains, scenic landscapes, and remote villages.
We all know that high-altitude treks in Nepal are designed for those ready to challenge and test their physical and mental limits. Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to delve into the pristine beauty of the country, especially the Himalayas, people, culture, tradition, natural landscapes, and landmarks.
This trek takes you over an altitude of above 5,000 meters, which can be breathtaking. It also offers you the experience of crossing through high-altitude passes and glaciers, which puts your physical and mental levels to the test.
You should know that this trek is not only designed for conquering the base camp, mountains, and other natural perks. It is also an opportunity to delve into Nepalese local culture and lifestyle. You will find the people’s warm and welcoming nature and get to taste traditional Nepali cuisines.
Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter offers an unforgettable adventure combining all the breathtaking landscapes around the Khumbu region and a return by Helicopter. This is what makes it more unique and different from other packages. It doesn’t matter whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker; you can still get the most out of our customized and unique blend of the trek. Here are some of the things that you should consider before embarking on this beautiful hike. Let’s explore this in detail.
Highlights Of Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter
- Get 360 views of majestic mountain peaks like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and many more.
- Reach Cho La Pass at an altitude of 5,420 meters above sea level.
- Explore the Five Lakes series in the Gokyo Valley, which features crystal-clear water and stunning scenery.
- Climb Gokyo Ri Peak
- Immerse yourself into the local Sherpa culture.
- Visit Tengboche Monastery and get insights about Buddhism around the place.
- Reach Everest Base Camp and explore its beauty and surroundings.
- Reach Kala Patthar at 5,644 meters and view 360 views of mountains, sunrise, and sunsets.
- Helicopter Ride from Kala Patthar to Kathmandu
Outline Itinerary - Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter
Day 01: Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2700 meters)
Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 meters)
Day 03: Rest/Acclimatize in Namche (3440 meters)
Day 04: Trek to Tengboche. (3860 meters) | 5 hours
Day 05: Tengboche to Dingboche (4350 meters) | 5.30 hours
Day 06: Day trip to Chhukung valley and back to Dingboche | Acclimatization
Day 07: Dingboche to Lobuche (4910 meters) 5 hours
Day 08: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters), then back to Gorak Shep (5180 meters)
Day 09: Hike to Kalapattar (5545 meters) and trek back to Dzongla (4620m.)
Day 10: Dzongla to Thangna (4650 m.)
Day 11: Thangna to Gokyo (4750m.)
Day 12: Climb Gokyo Ri (5483m.), return to Gokyo and Fly back to Kathmandu by Helicopter
Detailed Itinerary - Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter
Day 01: Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2700 meters)
Location: Lukla | Phakding
Lukla Altitude: 2860 Meters
Phakding Altitude: 2700 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
First, you will have to arrive in Kathmandu from your home country, where you will land at Tribhuvan International Airport. From there, you will take another short flight to Lukla. It takes around 30 to 45 minutes to reach Lukla Airport from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal.
Lukla Airport is considered a very dangerous airport in Nepal, with only a runway of 1729 feet. However, there's nothing to worry about. The experienced pilots with extensive backgrounds and histories ensure your safe landing in Lukla.
From Lukla, you will take a hike to 2700 meters in Phakding. You must climb uphill through the rugged and seasonable path to reach Phakding village. Though this hike is physically demanding, the natural beauty of this region is always there to cherish you up for your next step.
Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 meters)
Location: Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3440 Meters
Accommodation: Guest House
From Phakding Village, you will now hike to Namche Bazaar, which is 3440 meters above sea level. Namche Bazaar is one of the most attractive towns in Nepal - it features diverse Sherpa settlements with lots of hotels and guest house services. Also, this place is known as the "Gate To Everest" as the Everest Base Camp Trek, and Everest Expedition starts from here.
You can observe the modernized settlements with shops, bars, and lounges in restaurants and hotels. Also, Namche Bazaar has brought several assimilated Western-world features that might be in logistics, food, or other services.
From Phakding, you will have to hike for around 5 to 6 hours to reach Namche Bazaar. And the views of the mountains are undeniably vibrant and mind-blowing. Tonight you will stay at a guest house.
Day 03: Rest/Acclimatize in Namche (3440 meters)
Location: Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar Altitude: 3440 Meters
Accommodation: Guest House
Activity: Acclimatization
On the third day, you will take the whole day to rest. You will acclimatize your body to retain the energy for the following hikes left in your Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter package. By this time, you will already reach 3440 meters above sea level, and your body will be physically drained. So you will focus on resting and regaining energy and stamina. Avoid the intake of nicotine, caffeine, and alcoholic products, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Also, focus on eating healthy and nutritious food for energy.
Besides resting, you can visit nearby places that are very stunning to see from Namche Bazaar.
Day 04: Trek to Tengboche. (3860 meters) | 5 hours
Location: Tengboche
Tengboche Altitude: 3860 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
You will leave Namche Bazaar on the fourth day of your Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter package tour early in the morning. You will catch an uphill trail through the rocky terrains and dense rhododendron forest leading to Tengboche village.
The total time to reach Tengboche Village from Namche Bazaar is around 5 hours. One of the most alluring attractions is Tengboche Monastery, an ancient Tibetan Monastery that gives you insights into Buddhism. If you are about to visit this monastery, dress well and respect the monks and their culture and lifestyle.
You can see chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags around the monastery. With the help of monks, you can get a glimpse of Buddhism practice in the monastery and this region. You will stay at a tea house on the fourth night of your tour.
Day 05: Tengboche to Dingboche (4350 meters) | 5.30 hours
Location: Dingboche
Dingboche Altitude: 4350 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
On the fifth day of your tour, you will elevate your altitude by 500 meters; safety is crucial during this phase. Do check your safety kits and ensemble yourself with oxygen supplements to remain out of danger of the hazards like altitude sickness.
You will start your trek early in the morning after breakfast and walk straight for around five and a half hours to reach Dingboche. During the hike, you will see the scenery of mystic mountain peaks featuring the mountains from the Mahalangur ranges. Also, you will be crossing through the bamboo and rhododendron forests, where you can get an opportunity to see wildlife and plants.
Once you reach Dingboche at 4350 meters above sea level, you will rest and stay overnight at a tea house.
Day 06: Day trip to Chhukung valley and back to Dingboche | Acclimatization
Location: Chukung Valley
Chukung Valley Altitude: 4,730 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
You will now take a day trip to Chhukung Valley at 4730 Meters above sea level on the sixth day. You will be elevating around 400 meters from the previous altitude, so ensure you are well prepared for the high altitude.
You will climb through the sloppy uphill route, which is rocky and rugged. Your sturdy boots and physical fitness may help you pass the way here. You will reach Chhukung Valley, located at the left fork of the Imja Khola.
After sightseeing around the valley, you will return back to Dingboche for Acclimatization. Since you have elevated your altitude over 4500 meters above sea level, your body needs proper resting and nutritious food for retaining energy. Tonight you will stay at a tea house.
Day 07: Dingboche to Lobuche (4910 meters) 5 hours
Location: Lobuche
Lobuche Altitude: 4910 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
On the seventh day of your Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter, your target destination will be Lobuche. It is a small village with several natural riches and viewpoints to watch sunrise, sunsets, and surrounding mountain peaks. The village, which is 4910 meters above sea level, is mainly used as a lodging camp during their journey in the Everest region.
To reach Lobuche from Dingboche, you must walk uphill for around 5 hours. You will pass across green fields, dense forests, and stunning landscapes, so your travel will be worth the energy you put into the route.
You can find several tea houses in Lobuche, which offer services like shared bedrooms or dormitories, logistics, and food.
Day 08: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters), then back to Gorak Shep (5180 meters)
Location: Everest Base Camp | Gorak Shep
Everest Base Camp Altitude: 5365 Meters
Gorak Shep Altitude: 5180 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
This is the day when the first phase of your Everest base camp, Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter, ends. You will reach Everest Base Camp at 5365 meters above sea level, which is physically challenging. You must walk straight for over 6 hours to get to the base camp from Lobuche. The Everest Base Camp offers a scenic view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Manaslu, Cho Oyu, and many more.
You will also be involved in sightseeing activities around the base camp, which are thrilling and breathtaking.
After completing your activities in the base camp, you will return to Gorak Shep at 5180 meters above sea level. It is the last Sherpa settlement in the Khumbu region. You can find very few settlements with stone houses here. Tonight you will stay at a tea house.
Day 09: Hike to Kalapattar (5545 meters) and trek back to Dzongla (4620m.)
Location: Kala Patthar | Dzongla
Kala Patthar Altitude: 5545 Meters
Dzongla Altitude: 4620 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
The ninth day of your tour welcomes you to Kala Patthar, the base of Mount Everest. From here, you can have 360 views of Mount Everest and subsidiary peaks - one of the most stunning viewpoints to watch sunrise and sunsets. You can view Khumbu Glacier, waterfalls, and the long range of Mahalangur Mountain range from Kala Patthar, an iconic and once-in-a-lifetime moment.
You must hike from Gorak Shep early in the morning through the rugged but spectacular sloppy landscapes. Reaching Kala Patthar from Gorak Shep takes around 5 to 6 hours, and you will be engaged in several sightseeing activities.
After your activities are done in Kala Patthar, you will descend down to Dzongla at 4620 meters. Passing through the lush green forest and the downhill trail is the only way to reach Dzongla.
Day 10: Dzongla to Thangna (4650 m.)
Location: Thangna
Thangna Altitude: 4650 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
On the tenth day of your trek, you will reach the beautiful village of Thangna from Dzongla. You will have to walk downhill and descend back to 4650 meters above sea level, where Thangna village welcomes you with its beautiful and stunning natural landscapes.
You can find hospitable people rich in culture and tradition around this place. Your total trekking time is around 5 to 6 hours from Dzongla - you will start your hike early in the morning and pass through the forest areas and terraced fields before reaching your destination. You will stay overnight at a teahouse with basic lodging and food services.
Day 11: Thangna to Gokyo (4750m.)
Location: Gokyo
Gokyo Altitude: 4750 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House/Camp
This is the phase where your second term of Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter starts. You have successfully hiked to EBC and Cho La Pass, and now it's time to reach Gokyo, a tropical landscape rich in several natural perks.
You will walk through the rhododendron and juniper trees in a tropical climate. In this area, you will simultaneously walk through the snowy landscapes, which are sloppy and slipper but thrilling and adventurous. The wildlife and plants you see around this region are unique.
Similarly, due to its harsh climate, you can find only a few settlements around the region. From Thangla, an average trekker needs to walk around 6 to 7 hours on foot to reach Gokyo. Remember walking such a long distance at a high altitude is very dangerous, so ensure you have prepared well for the harsh climate and environment. Tonight you will stay at a tea house - ensure you have carried a warm sleeping bag.
Day 12: Climb Gokyo Ri (5483m.), return to Gokyo and Fly back to Kathmandu by Helicopter
Location: Gokyo Ri | Kathmandu
Gokyo Altitude: 5483 Meters
Activity: Return On Helicopter from Gokyo To Kathmandu
The twelfth day of Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter marks its final and departing day. You will engage in multiple actions this day, from climbing mountain peaks to a Helicopter ride.
You will start your day by climbing to Gokyo Ri Peak, which is 5483 meters above sea level. You will pass through the forests with a soothing view of Gokyo lakes around the region while you climb this beautiful peak. After climbing Gokyo Ri, you will return to Gokyo and prepare for your return.
You will be led to the Helicopter by your guide, and from there, your helicopter return tour starts, which is the last phase of this journey. You will fly over the Everest region, looking at the beautiful mountain ranges. The peaks of Mount Everest, Lobuche, Ama Dablam, Manaslu, Lhotse, and others can be seen in a 360 bird-eye view, which is a unique and thrilling experience. Similarly, the scenes of local villages, terraced fields, and forest areas will add spice to your flight.
The flight back to Kathmandu will be very comfortable and easy. You will land in Kathmandu within some minutes - reaching the capital city takes around 45 minutes. After you reach Kathmandu, our agent will escort you to your hotel and prepare for your departure from Nepal.
You will carry a life-long experience of Nepal and the Himalayas, vibrant Sherpa culture, insights into Buddhism, forests, wildlife, and hospitable people during your departure.
Trip Cost US$ 2900 Per person
Cost Includes:
- Private transportation to/from airport and hotel
- Standard meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and seasonal fruits during trek
- Tea house accommodations with attached bathroom in Namche and Lukla
- Experienced government-licensed guide with food, accommodations, equipment, and insurance
- Porter for every two trekkers with insurance and expenses covered
- Oxygen tanks (if needed)
- Helicopter Return expenses from Gokyo lake.
- 10kg check-in baggage and 5kg hand carry for flights
- trip flight From Kathmandu to Lukla with airport taxes
- National park permits and TIMS
- Medical supplies, first aid kit, oximeter, and pulse meter checker
- Trekking route map and emergency helicopter service (paid by traveler's insurance)
- Sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles provided
- Ground transportation, government taxes, and official expenses included
Cost Excludes:
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Hotels in Kathmandu.
- Visa fees for Nepal
- Travel insurance (required)
- Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, and souvenirs
- Tips for the trekking guide and porters (recommended)
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu in case of early return from the trek (due to health or other reasons)
- Any additional activities or services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Preparing for the Trek
Physical Preparation
Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter is a series of treks covering three Everest region destinations. While EBC Trek is one of Nepal's physically challenging hikes, the addition of Cho La Pass and Gokyo Trek makes it more complex.
So, to be in line with this trekking collection, you must have outstanding physical fitness and endurance. Our itineraries include several hours of walking daily, which requires excellent physical stamina and energy. To complete it successfully, your body has to have power and stamina synced up with physical fitness. And to gain that, you can prepare by taking short hikes before this trek.
You can expose yourself to other high-altitude treks, so your body adjusts well in the Everest region. We recommend you engage in physical exercises like workouts, cycling, jogging, and cardio-vascular activities to strengthen your muscles. Once you are physically ready for Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter, you can easily navigate through its routes without any hurdles.
Mental Preparation
Your mentality is the factor that matters whether you complete Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter completely or not. If you are well-prepared with your mentality of completing the trek successfully, then you can push yourself harder to the destination.
You should remain optimistic about the outcome of the trek and motivate yourself to take the following steps throughout the hike. Also, if anything unnatural happens or you meet with accidents and injury, do not lose hope and get support from the guides and porters you are with during the trek.
Necessary Permits And Documents
Before embarking on the beautiful journey of Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter, you should obtain the necessary permits and documents. There are three types of tickets required to go on this journey. They are:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit
- Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permit
As we all know, Everest Base Camp lies within the boundary of Sagarmatha National Park, a restricted area designed to conserve wild species of plants and animals. You must buy a license that allows you to enter inside it. It costs around NPR 3000 per person for international trekkers.
Similarly, you must obtain Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit and Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permit, which cost you NPR 2000 and NPR 3000, respectively. You can get these licenses at Monjo Check Post or Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu.
Remember, Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permit is only required for those traveling from Jiri.
Required Gear and Equipment
We have already discussed the preparation for physical challenges around the Everest region in this trek. To make your trek handy, you will need a set of required gear and equipment, including hiking poles, a backpack, sleeping bags, sturdy boots, and other materials.
These might include clothing and skincare items as well. Since the Everest region is very cold, your clothing should be very weather-friendly. Pack windproof and waterproof jackets, thermal layers for inside and outside, warm gloves, socks, hats, sun protection creams, and other required materials to ensure your safety in the harsh climate. Also, remember to pack first-aid kits and oxygen supplements since you are always prone to altitude sickness in high altitudes. And as EBC is at 5,364 meters above sea level, you are always in the danger zone.
Choosing a Reputable Trekking Agency
Check for reputable trekking agencies which can fulfill your requirements and meet expectations. Exciting Nepal is one of many agencies that provide customized Everest Base Camp Tour packages at a reasonable cost.
Similarly, the service of experienced guides and porters with 24/7 customer care support is top-notch. This will enhance your safety and security throughout the trek in the Everest region.
Relevant trips you may like:
- Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek
- Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
- Everest Base camp Cho-la pass trek
Benefits of Returning By Helicopter
After completing Everest Base Camp Trek with Cho La Pass and Gokyo, you will be cherished with a helicopter ride from Gokyo to Kathmandu. And it has its benefits, which are discussed below:
Time-Saving:
When you return to Kathmandu from Gokyo, it only takes around 30 to 45 minutes by air. So it simply means that you will save a lot of time, which could be consumed by trekking up to Lukla. If you have a tight schedule and are short on time, returning by Helicopter covers all your requirements. Meanwhile, you can get rid of strenuous hikes back to Lukla. You will be saving more than 3 to 4 days.
Comfort and Convenience
As mentioned above, you can skip the physically challenging hiking part to Lukla from Gokyo if you return the Helicopter to Kathmandu. You will be relieved as you don't have to carry your heavy backpacks and deal with the potential altitude sickness. You can hop into Kathmandu with the help of a Helicopter.
Safety
The Gokyo to Lukla route is situated at a high altitude, so you are prone to several dangers like altitude sickness, physical weakness, and breakdowns. If you take on a helicopter return package to Kathmandu from Gokyo, then you can avoid all these hazards. You don't have to deal with land-based weather hazards, injuries, or long hikes through rocky terrain.
Unique Experience
Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter is a unique package Exciting Nepal has offered trekkers. This is a different version of the trekking experience that only some people enjoy. You have 360 Bird-Eye views of the surroundings, including the snow-capped mountains that feature peaks like Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and many others. Similarly, you can view the local villages and dense rhododendron forests, Khumbu Glacier, Gokyo Lakes, and other beauties from the air, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Returning by Helicopter from Gokyo to Kathmandu can become a time-saving, safe, and comfortable journey. If you are looking forward to saving time and enjoying a comfortable and safe journey, Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter is perfect.
Conclusion
Overall, Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return by Helicopter can be a rewarding opportunity for trekkers to delve into the beauty of mountains in the Everest region. Though the trek might be physically and mentally challenging, helicopter returns relieve you as you leave Gokyo to Kathmandu. It is a unique package that trekkers might want to opt for to explore the natural beauty of the Everest region and challenge themselves physically. Don't worry about the outcome since you will be landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in a matter of minutes.
You will visit some of the most stunning landscapes, including Mount Everest, Gokyo Lakes, and Cho La Pass. Similarly, you will immerse yourself in the Everest region's vibrant culture, visit local Sherpa communities and monasteries, and taste traditional Nepali cuisine.
If you are looking for an adventure of a lifetime, Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek Return By Helicopter is an excellent option. The combination of both physical and mental challenges relieved by breathtaking scenery and the luxury of returning by Helicopter are the factors that make this journey unforgettable. So align with us to book the package and delve into the awe-inspiring hike.