If you want to learn detailed information about Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return, this is the place. You will find all of the necessary info about the trip here.
It is just a fabulous feeling when you are doing something that you were actually dreaming of for so long. Being on the legendary trail of Everest Base Camp Trek is one of such feelings.
Doubtlessly, the trek is a dream for explorers across the world. A dreamer of Everest Base Camp Trek can do this trek in several ways. The most common way is the standard trek that goes about 14 to 16 days. It is a lengthy plan that involves round trekking of the trail of about 130 Km long. But there are some shorter itineraries as well.
Experience while Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return is one of them. You will do Everest Base Camp Trek and return by helicopter afterward straight from the Kala Patthar view point on this itinerary. That means you will have to trek for only 65 Km out of 130; the helicopter ride will do the rest of the part. Isn’t this a great plan?
Well, it is. The addition of the helicopter in a trek like EBC makes some important saves. It saves a lot of time that was to be needed for the return trek, and hence it saves energy too. The trek, which is one of the challenging treks, becomes a bit easy as well. One will lower the challenges of the expedition by a half dozen by choosing this itinerary. And all of these unique features of the plan make it stand out from others itineraries.
The best part of the Everest Base Camp Trek and return via helicopter is that you get to experience all of the things. You’ll not only trek and explore the Everest Region, but you will also get a bird’s eye view of the region. You are going to experience both the passing via the traditional settlements like Tengboche, Namche Bazaar, Phakding and flying over these villages.
You will also witness the loaded vegetation of the Sagarmatha National Park; nothing will be left unturned in this trek. In a few words, you will undergo all the experiences Everest has to offer.
All of that will happen without trekking the round trail. Just trek up to Everest Base Camp, know what it is like to do the trek in the Everest region, and then fly back to where it all started.
Significant Highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return
- Start the tour with a picturesque flyover to Lukla.
- Join the ever-exciting trail of Everest Base Camp and retrace the footprints of thousands of trekkers and mountaineers.
- Enjoy being in the Everest Region, which is raw, rural, and heavenly.
- Get to know the culture, tradition, food, and inspiring lifestyle of the Sherpas.
- Ramble through the dense woods of Sagarmatha National Park.
- Walk over the famous suspension bridges that are full of colorful prayer flags.
- Spend evenings at famous villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and more.
- Reach Everest Base Camp(5,545m) and Kala Patthar(5,645m) to experience the beauty.
- Get glimpses of numerous iconic mountains of the region other than Everest like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Pumori, etc.
- Fly straight back to Kathmandu from Kala Patthar in a helicopter by enjoying the picture of the region from the sky.
- Complete the Everest Base Camp Trek within nine days by smartly(Choosing a helicopter ride), avoiding 4 to 6 days.
Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
It is essential to have hints about the best times to do an expedition. If you have the correct information about the best times, you can schedule your journey in the best possible times only. And it becomes even more important when you are planning to do a high altitude and challenging trek like Everest Base Camp. Plus, you will have a helicopter ride on tour. So, the best weather conditions will be needed for this trip.
In that case, Spring and Autumn are deemed as the best times for being on an expedition in Nepal. And on the other hand, Monsoon and Winter are called the low seasons for trekking in Nepal. Let’s find about each of the seasons so that you can know why they called high and low seasons, respectively:
Autumn | September-November
Autumn is the post-Monsoon season, hence, a crystal-clear season to travel in Nepal. The rain takes all of the dust off the landscapes, and you can enjoy a fresh view of Mahalangur Himalayas.
Moreover, the season is attributed to conditions like open bluish skies, warm days, better sunlight, and more visibility, making it a perfect time for outings. The day hours are warmer than the nights. Weather remains just the way you want, stable and calm. You get lots of sunny hours. And the temperature of the higher hills rotates around 15 to 24ºC, which is quite good. So all of these points make it a good season to go.
However, the first few weeks of Autumn until mid-September can be a little rainy, as of Monsoon’s aftermath. Autumn takes over from mid-September only and rules the serenity of Nepal until late November. Therefore, plan your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return in that specific timeline to have a successful trip. But have in mind that the trail will be dotted with numerous other trekkers like you.
Spring | March-May
Spring, the season of flowers, is another season when you can plan Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return. It is the time when temperature and weather in the Himalayas are as stable as they can. A trekker experiences beautiful trekking conditions throughout the season. The temperature of the upper hill areas is around 16 to 23ºC during this season. The bearable temperature is followed by clear skies, green landscapes, and transparent mountains.
The time of Spring season is also the busiest period on the trekking trails. Thanks to the weather conditions that drive hundreds of people across the globe to the tracks here. However, it may not be as crowded as in Autumn. It is good news to those who look for peaceful and less-crowded times. Enhanced visibility is another perk of traveling during Spring. Due to the clear and sunny days, trekkers love doing trekking in this period of the year.
Also, this is the most preferred time for Mount Everest Expedition and others too. Just remember that the first few weeks of Spring are a little colder than the rest. Hence, April will be the suitable month to pick over other Spring months for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return.
Summer| June-August
Summer is much about rainfall and the cloudy season in Nepal. It is the time when the country records the hottest temperature along with the wettest weather. All over, from June to August, there are very high chances of rain outbreaks. The mountains are often behind the clouds. However, the mountains open up nicely after the rainfall, which is such a treat to watch.
During this time, trekking trails of Nepal are not populated as in other seasons. The routes are slippery, muddy, and wet due to the regular rainfall. There are possibilities of landslides as in these months that can block the trails. To trek in Summer is like trekking amidst numerous challenges. The leeches, mosquitos all over the trail can make your trekking hard. However, you can enjoy the peaceful trails if you trek in Summer in Nepal.
If you are planning Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return during Summer, the plan may not work. As for the unstable weather conditions, you have to face uncertainties. The helicopter service is hazardous to operate under challenging conditions. Nevertheless, if you do not have any other free time than this, go for either late August. By the end of the season, the precipitation level is relatively low compared to the peak time.
Winter| December-February
It is pretty chilly during the Winter season, which lasts from December to February. The country experiences the coldest time of the year during this season. As of the extreme cold, the number of trekkers arriving in Nepal also decreases.
You can expect a temperature of around 9 to 12ºC in the daytime and even low in the night hours. The higher areas like Everest Base Camp are the coldest ones. Up there, the temperature is below the freezing level, which is normal during Winter.
Yet, this season sees plenty of trekkers walking around the trails of Nepal. They accept the added challenges of the winter season and do these treks. It is okay to do low-altitude hikes or short excursions. Such tours do not get affected by snowfall. If you move to the higher outings, the region can receive immense snowfall. That snowfall can further increase the challenges of the hike.
Traveling in Nepal in Winter has its perks. You can expect snow-loaded views of the higher areas of the country. The mountains look newly decorated with snow, and everything looks fresh during this season. If you can take on the extreme temperature and snowfall, this season is operable for treks. However, it is risky to operate helicopter tours when there are high chances of snowfall up in the Himalayas.
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Food and Accommodation during Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return
Finding foods and eateries is not a problem while doing Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return trip. There are loads of tea houses along the route, providing a wide range of food items. The tea houses are the most common eating places in the EBC trek. The locals operate them to serve the visitors. They have been selling food items from various cuisines like Chinese, Indian, Continental, and Local(Nepalese).
You can get food items like Noodle Soup, Dumplings, Macaroni, Pizza, Spaghetti, and more. Yet the most popular is “Traditional Dal Bhat.” The cuisine is known as the trekking food in Nepal, and it is available in almost every teahouse. Likewise, the tea houses also serve beverage items like tea, coffee, and energy drinks. There are some bakeries as well at various stops of the trek. Talking about water facilities, you can get drinkable water from the teahouses. However, you can also drink water from the water taps along the trail. Make sure you use water purification tablets to purify it.
On the other side, you will get plenty of places to settle for the nights during the trek. Teahouses offer the food and drinks and accommodation facilities as well. Twin-sharing basis rooms are the most common room types in these sorts of teahouses. In there, you can expect two beds, a table, with all the bedclothes. You will not get an attached bathroom, though; you have to use a shared toilet. The rooms are clean and worth the price you pay for them. However, do not expect luxurious rooms in every teahouse you enter. Yet, the common facilities like hot showers, WIFI, and electronic charging are accessible in those places for extra charges.
Difficulty Level of Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return
Everest Base Camp Trek and Return by Helicopter is not an easy piece of cake at all. Thanks to the helicopter return, it is just a little easier than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek. You have to endure several problems while doing this expedition. Let’s find out what are they down below:
Trekking Distance and Hours
As the trek starts from Lukla and ends up at Everest Base Camp, you will cover a total distance of around 65 Kms. To cover the distance on time, you will have to walk for about 5 to 8 hours daily. The trail is not as easy as you think; it is full of regular roughs, ups, and downs. Walking such a distance on such a trail in a single day can be a little difficult for novice trekkers. People with prior trekking experience can endure the distance and trekking hours. This problem is prone to those who are not highly experienced.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude is something that keeps increasing in this trek. The trek you are planning to do is one of the highest altitude treks. Kala Patthar(5,554m) is the ultimate point to complete this trek. And you will start this trek from Lukla, which stands at an altitude of 2,860m. You can guess now what altitude you will gain during this trek.
When you gain a significant amount of altitude like on this trip, there is always a risk of altitude sickness. The altitude sickness is not a good indication for trekkers doing this sort of trek. Trekkers have to go through difficult times due to the condition. Immediate treatment and emergency evacuation can be required for those who get crumbled to the illness.
Novel Weather
The weather of the Everest Region is quite different from other regions. Trekkers who are not comfortable with the conditions in the Himalayas can face minor problems here. The temperature up in the mountains is always crisp and chilly. Someone from the low altitudes may find it tough to settle with the temperature. Likewise, the weather is pretty unpredictable; it can change anytime in any manner. If you are not open-minded to this fact, then you can face more troubles during the tour.
Strenuous Trail
The route of Everest Base Camp Trek is strenuous, demanding, and challenging. Those who go on this trek have to go through the steep and rough trails. If you are not prepared to take on this sort of trial, you will undoubtedly face challenges. There can be times during the trek when you might want to give up, especially the beginners. If you are not comfortable walking such a trail, you have to do some training and preparation. Or else this difficulty is natural for you.
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek Return back by Helicopter
It is information for those who might get confused on the packing list for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return. The following list is the basic one, and you can add it up as per your requirement. However, do not pack useless things and increase the weight for the trek. Be a wise backpacker!
Clothing
- Base Layers
- Insulation Layer
- Waterproof Jacket
- Trekking Trousers/Pants
- Hiking Shorts
- Trekking Shirts
- Down Jacket
- Fleece Jacket
- Breathable Underwears
Headwear
- Hat
- Beanie
- Neck Gaiter
- UV Protected Sunglasses
Handwear
- Inner Gloves
- Insulated Outer Gloves
Footwears
- Hiking Boots
- Sandals
- Warm Trekking Socks
- Gaiters
Toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Toilet paper
- Wet Tissues
- Lip Balm
- Soap
- Toothpaste and Toothbrush
- Hand Sanitizer
- Pee Funnel
- Feminine Hygiene Products
Miscellaneous
- Day backpack
- Raincover
- Sleeping Bag
- Liner
- Ear Plugs
- Trekking Poles
- Headlight with Extra Batteries
- Water Bottle
- Quick Drying Towel
- Lock
- Camera
- Portable Power Bank
- Books
- Cards
Documents
- Travel Insurance
- Passport Sized Photos
- Visa
- Passport
Read more on: Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List
How to get yourself ready for Everest Base Camp Trek?
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return involves at least 65Km long trek. In that expedition, you have to trek for anywhere around 5 to 8 hours daily. It may sound easy to the experienced trekkers but not the novice ones. It can turn into a problematic piece of cake for those who are not so good at trekking.
This read is for those who are seeking how to prepare themselves for Everest Base Camp Trek. Read all of the topics and start the preparation right away.
Cardiovascular Training
Cardiovascular training is all about increasing the oxygen levels in your body. In a trek like Everest Base Camp Trek, your body’s oxygen plays a vital role. If you have a fit cardio level, your body can produce more oxygen and helps in fighting altitude sickness. Therefore, you should do cardiovascular training like swimming, running, jogging, hiking, stair climbing, and uphill hike.
Doing that will allow you to have an excellent cardiovascular system in yourself. Start this training at least 5 to 6 months before the trek date and be consistent. The more often you do these sorts of activities, the more ready you will become for the trek.
Strength Training
Everest Base Camp Trek asks for high strength from every trekker. If you do not think you have muscular strength, then do strength training as well. In this program, the main focus is to strengthen your body’s various parts like muscles, shoulders, back, abdomen. To sum up, it is about strengthening your body to take up challenges during the trek.
As you know, Everest Base Camp Trek involves strenuous and steep trek. You have to keep on walking on such trails by carrying a heavy backpack on your back. Therefore, you should consider building up your strength level. For this, you can hit the gym regularly at least 5 to 6 months before the date. Go to the gym and do sit ups, pullups, crunches, or whatever; just make your body enduring one.
Mental Training
Mental Training is equally important if you are daring Everest Base Camp Trek. The trek is one of the most challenging treks in the world. Trekkers of this trek have to be mentally prepared to face the challenges. A mentally unprepared trekker may think of giving up quite quickly during the tour. That is why you have to be aware of the difficulties of the excursions like rugged trekking trails, trekking hours, altitude factors. Also, you have to be open to the available services and facilities during the trek. That awareness will help you find ways to avoid or endure those challenges.
Altitude Training
Altitude Training happens by itself if you do all of the above training correctly. Cardiovascular and strength training will make you fit enough for the trek, and so will mental training. You will have to face altitudes only during the tour. What you can do during this time is following the precautions. If you are keeping your body hydrated and you are strolling, you will avoid mountain sickness.
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Some Tips for a safe Everest Base Camp Trek and Return via Helicopter
Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging adventure to do unless you follow helpful tips. We have presented some of the must-follow tips for your Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return trip. If you follow all of the below-written tips, you will have a safe and memorable experience; you can mark our words.
Plan the trek at the right time
If you have read the best time of making this trip, which we have explained earlier, you know the right time for this expedition. Plan the trek at the right time to have a safe journey. As you know, the correct times have the right weather conditions. You do not have to face any weather challenges at all. Trekking during the right time becomes a more effortless experience.
Prepare Accordingly
If you have chosen Everest Base Camp Trek, then you have to prepare accordingly. You should get involved in training like cardio, strength, mental, and altitude training. Moreover, you have to start arranging all things for treks like visas, equipment, insurance, and gear. If you are up to all of the required preparation, you will not face any difficulties during the tour.
Pack the Essentials Wisely
If you have packed your backpack for the tour wisely, you will thank yourself later on. Most of the trekkers do not take this thing seriously and pack everything they see. They also choose quality-less gear, and as a result, they have to face various problems. To avoid such challenges, you have to pack your backpack wisely. Put the things that are useful and durable during the trek.
Choose a licensed Agency
A licensed agency has various perks when it comes to trekking in Nepal. Such agencies plan your trip thoroughly and safely. From the arrival to the departure, they stay with you altogether. Everything becomes so easy if you choose a licensed agency for doing an expedition in Nepal. They are someone who has been helping people to make trips in Nepal.
We, Exciting Nepal, one of the leading tour operators in Nepal, can be your authorized agency for the trek.
Hire a trekking guide or porter
Hiring a guide and/or porter is recommended if this will be your first trek in Nepal. The trekking conditions are very much identical to this region. You surely need someone to guide you in the right direction and someone to carry your heavy backpacks. Doing that, you explore the beauty and happenings of the trek on your own. The guide and porter will look after all the other things for you.
If you choose to make this trip with us, we will find an experienced porter and guide for your comfort.
Take Altitude Sickness Seriously
You cannot take altitude sickness lightly. The illness is the dark side of the trek. Every trekker on the trail to Everest Base Camp can get exposed to this sickness. If you get caught by it, you have to face any sort of circumstances. Thus, you need to follow the precautions like trekking slowly, drinking enough water, and not smoking and drinking alcohol. If you follow all of them, then only you can remain on the safe side.
Cost Information of Everest Base Camp Trek and Return Via Helicopter
The total cost of doing Everest Base Camp Trek and Return by Helicopter with the team of Exciting Nepal is $2,800 only. The price is the most reasonable one that you can get from the local agencies. We will mention the includes and exclude the cost to give you a detailed idea about the cost of the expedition.
Day 01: Early Morning Flight to Lukla and Trek up to Phakding
Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Day 03: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Day 04: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Day 05: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Day 07: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
Day 08: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, then to Everest Base Camp, and return to Gorakshep
Day 09: Trek from Gorakshep to Kalapathar and back; Return to Kathmandu via Helicopter from Gorakshep
Detailed Itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek 9 Days Helicopter Return
Day 01: Early Morning Flight to Lukla and Trek up to Phakding
Flight Duration: 40 minutes
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Trek Distance: 6.5 Km Approx.
Starting Point: Lukla(2,840m)
Ending Point: Phakding(2,610m)
Get yourself ready for the trip! You will leave your hotel for the airport early in the morning. The Everest Base Camp Trek and Return by Helicopter will kick off here. You will join the aircraft that will take you straight to Lukla from Kathmandu. You are allowed to take 15Kg luggage in total on the flight to Lukla. Make sure you meet the luggage requirement. After some 40 minutes of airtime, you will land at Lukla airport, one of the dangerous airports in the world. While in the air, you will enjoy such a quality view of mountains and landscapes.
Upon landing in Lukla, you will start the trek to Phakding. But before that, you can do some necessary shopping at Lukla as there are several gear shops, ATMs, and pharmacies. After shopping and breakfast, you will join the trail to Phakding. As you leave Lukla for a while, you will come across an office where you have to get the trekking permit or permit checked.
The trail from Lukla to Phakding is an easy one. The path is easy to maneuver as the trails are stone-stacked; the route-way is pretty comfortable. You will not face many challenges on this day as you have to walk a few uphills only. Passing several small settlements through suspension bridges, you will move towards Phakding. It will be time when you will get to communicate with the locals.
Moreover, there will be loads of fauna and trees along the route, and mountains will also start to appear. You will also walk by the riverbed of Dudh Kosi River, which is a treat to your ears. The short but pleasant trek will come to its end once you reach Phakding. Overnight in one of the teahouses.
Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Trek Distance: 8.Km Approx.
Starting Point: Phakding(2,610m)
Ending Point: Namche Bazaar(3,440m)
The second day is about trekking from Phakding to Namche Bazaar. It will be one of the longest days of Everest Base Camp Trek Return Back by Helicopter. The trek for the day will start by crossing a suspension bridge to leave Phakding. After some minutes of trekking, you will reach Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit Checking Counter, where you have to show your permit.
Ticking your permit, you will move further towards Namche Bazaar. You will trek on the trail that has lots of stairs. While you move ahead, you will notice plenty of views of broad valleys, rivers, and peaks. You will also trek through several tiny Sherpa settlements. As this is a long trekking day, you will stop in one of the villages to have lunch and rest. You can expect to interact with lots of locals today. That will give you a hint of their lifestyle and culture.
Soon after that comes the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park located at Monjo. You have to show your entry permit there. Then you will follow the beautiful downhill trail that runs by the Dudh Koshi River. In this way, you will encounter the rich vegetation of the protected site. Crossing the river via several of the suspension bridges dotted with prayer flags, you will keep on trekking until you see Namche arriving.
The picturesque views keep coming as you carry on trekking. If the trekking day is clear, you can also view Mt Everest from this day. But you have to walk a steep trail to enjoy the view. You will gain some elevation as well as you reach Namche Bazaar by the evening. Just before getting in Namche, you have to pass via a checkpoint where you need to show your permits yet again.
Then you finally arrive in Namche Bazaar, the most happening place in the Khumbu region. It is a place where you can go shopping, hangouts, and ATMs. Located in the lapses of the mountains, Namche Bazaar is a fine place to spend a day or evening. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 03: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
An acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar is a must for everyone who is aiming for Everest Base Camp. This sort of rest day helps trekkers to get used to the newly gained elevations. Trekking any further than Namche Bazaar without proper acclimatization is pretty risky in Everest Base Camp Trek. Therefore, you will invest this day just to become comfortable with the heights.
This day will bring a short hike around Namche for your acclimatization purpose. The hike makes your body ready for the adventures yet to come. You will have several hiking options on this acclimatization day. You can walk up to one of the highest located hotels, Everest View Hotel. Or else you can go and explore the big Sherpa villages like Khumjung(3,780m) and Khunde(3,860m). There are more options like reaching Syangboche Airport, visiting the Sherpa Culture Museum, and Sagarmatha National Park Information Center.
To get to spend a day around Namche Bazaar is such a blessing. Being around this place, you can see the breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Mt Everest, and more. Likewise, it is a perfect place to connect with the locals and their inspiring lifestyle. While you explore this place, your body will acclimate to the heights. You can end this fantastic day by having a friendly hangout at one of the happening places in Namche. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 04: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Trek Distance: 9.5Km
Starting Point: Namche Bazaar(3,440m)
Ending Point: Tengboche(3,860m)
It is time to bid goodbye to Namche Bazaar after spending two nights here. You will join the uphill trail to leave the town to reach the sandy path. As you proceed ahead, the course becomes more straight and easy. You can easily see several mountains, including the giant, while trekking on the path.
After trekking through the path for some time, the track will go downwards to the deep forest. In this process, you will lose some elevation while walking downhill amid woods. The downhill trek will end upon reaching a suspension bridge.
There is a checkpoint right across the bridge where you have to show your permits to move further. After getting your permits checked, you will head upwards now to gain some heights. The trail is uphill and a bit rocky to walk. It is better to trek slowly while you are gaining elevation. Keeping it slow, you will walk several uphills and downhills through the place full of fauna. There will be some view to look at after every uphill climb.
Trekking and enjoying the scenery, you will push for the last stretch to reach Tengboche. The final portion is a comfortable one as it is a gradual climb. You will see the Tengboche Monastery in the backdrop as you come nearer to the village. The settlement is famous for the monastery. You will get a warm welcome by the blessings of the monastery and the breathtaking mountain view off the village. Overnight rest at one of the lodges. There are several teahouses in Tengboche.
Day 05: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Trek Distance: 11.Km
Starting Point: Tengboche(3,860m)
Ending Point: Dingboche(4,410m)
After cherishing the early morning in Tengboche with lots of views, you will leave the village. The trek will start with a descent into the woods. Then you will pass via a small town, Deboche while sliding. There are some teahouses in this village as well working as alternatives to the Tenboche’s accommodations. Moreover, the uphill starts just after leaving Deboche behind. You will gain some altitude in every step forward.
Mt Ama Dablam will look more natural and clear as you move up along with the inscribed stones. A suspension bridge will take you to another side of the valley where you can view peaks more vastly and quickly. You will maneuver through the valley, climbing the stone stairs slowly. The walk will gain elevation gradually as the day passes on. It is no hard work to climb the steep sections today. The uphill parts are slightly upwards.
The fifth day of Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return bestows the best views of Ama Dablam, the most iconic mountain on the planet. Along with that, the better visions of Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest will keep on coming as you trek ahead. Then you will reach Shomare, the village close to Dingboche. Later the trek shall continue until you cross the river via a bridge and reach the Dingboche. Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
You shall not trek any further from Dingboche without spending an acclimatization day in the Dingboche. Conversely, you will perform short acclimatization day hikes up to Nangkartshang Peak. After getting breakfast, you will leave Dingboche to reach the peak. You will keep all of your belongings at your teahouses; a day pack will be better for the day.
The walk will take you to the tip of the peak from where you celebrate the view of the vast valley. Nangkartshang Peak(5,083m) is a peak that separates the valley from Imja valley. It will be a hike of around 5.6km(round) which will last for 5 hours. This hike will have slight elevation gain, and that will make you acclimate to the new altitudes. Throughout the hiking trail, you will enjoy views of Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu, and more. The landscapes that you will encounter on this day are equally picturesque.
Having spent the acclimatization day doing a hike of Nangkartshang Peak, you will trace back to Dingboche. This day will make you ready for the difficult days yet to come. Do not rush while returning from the top, the trail is relatively slippery with small rocks. Once you reach back in Dingboche’s teahouse, you will take enough rest for the upcoming big day.
Day 07: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Trek Distance: 11Km
Starting Point: Dingboche(4,410m)
Ending Point: Lobuche(4,910m)
Now you will move towards Lobuche in your quest to Everest Base Camp. You will leave this beautiful village Dingboche through the same hiking trail that you used a day before. This time you will not head upwards. You have to join the straight route. Walking the course, you will move deep in the valley and pass via Pheriche, one of the famous villages of the region.
Through the village, you will move further in the valley by gaining some altitude. The day’s track is not that tough to walk, but you have to remember, you are gaining elevations. That is the reason you should never rush while in higher altitudes. Moving further, you will also pass by Thukla(Dughla), a small town with a few teahouses. You will stay in the village for some time to rest and eat something. Make sure you get enough food and rest; the last section is the toughest one.
It will be 1 hour of the uphill climb that is serpentine mostly. You have to keep pushing until you reach the top(Thukla Pass), where there is the Everest Memorial, a place dedicated to the lost souls in the Everest Expedition. The climb is worth climbing as you will come across the breathtaking view of Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding region. Throughout the day, you will have plenty of stunning views to cherish and capture while crossing the valley.
Doing the rest of the hike is relatively easy as the trail becomes straight after the climb. You will see Lobuche village with peaks like Lobuche Peak and Nuptse in the background. There are only a few teahouses in Lobuche, and you will choose one of them. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 08: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, then to Everest Base Camp, and return to Gorakshep
Trek Duration: 7 to 9 hours
Trek Distance: 15Km
Starting Point: Lobuche(4,910m)
Ending Point: Gorakshep(5,125m)
Highest Point: Everest Base Camp(5,364m)
Day 8 of Everest Base Camp Trek 9 Days Helicopter Return has some actual trek for you. The day has two trekking parts: from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and then to Everest Base Camp. You can guess how much of the walk is to be done on this day. The day will test all of your preparation, hard work, and excitement. You will start the day by eating a heavy breakfast at Lobuche.
Your first goal will be to reach Gorak Shep on time, as your second part starts from there. The trek to Gorak Shep will be through the terminal moraines of Khumbu Glacier. While you walk, the Nuptse and other snow-loaded peaks will tease you regularly. Ensure you don’t get hooked on the view while walking; the trail gets rougher as you move ahead. The path to Gorak Shep is relatively rough and uneven but does not take more than 3 hours. A little later, you will see Gorakshep getting closer with Pumori in the backside. As you reach there, do a quick check-in and lunch, there is still a lot to do.
The second part of the day starts as you leave Gorakshep for Everest Base Camp. It takes around 4 hours to reach the base camp and return. To make that happen, you will join the trail that is adjoining the Khumbu Glacier. Crossing the rough and rocky track and enjoying the unique landscape, you will move closer and closer to Everest Base Camp. Lots of colorful prayer flags will come across and will guide you on the way to the point.
Then you will finally reach Everest Base Camp. It is when your desire to reach the base of the tallest peak in the world will come true. All of your hard trekking days will become worthwhile here. You will take enough pictures of the place and yourself in it. Look at every corner of this legendary place. Look at Mt Everest and other nearby peaks as much as you can. And treasure the whole moment for your lifetime.
Once you explore enough of the place, it will be time to descend back to the teahouse in Gorakshep. The trek will be through the same rocky track. Reach back in Gorak Shep and enjoy the much-deserved rest.
Day 09: Trek from Gorakshep to Kalapathar and back; Return to Kathmandu via Helicopter from Gorakshep
Trek Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Trek Distance: 4 Km Approx.
Starting Point: Gorakshep(5,125m)
Ending Point: Kathmandu(1,400m)
Highest Point: Kalapatthar(5,645m)
As we know, Kalapatthar is a highlights of this trek, The Kalapatthar is known as a best view point of the Mt. Everest as well as which is famous for beautiful sunrise behind the Mt. Everest looks amazing and truly beautiful.
On your last day of the trip, you will progress to Kalapatthar, the so-called best place to view Mt Everest. You do not have to rush anymore as this day has only a 1 to 2 hours trek. You will leave your belongings at the hotel and hike up with a day hiking pack.
As you pass out of the village, you will join a sandy area that heads towards Kala Patthar.
From this area, you can see Pumori mountain just behind the rocky hills. The path is easy to navigate and trek; you will love this part of the day: no strenuous walk, just the picturesque vision of the Everest Region. The most satisfying part about this hike is you get to view the entire Everest region as you reach Kala Patthar. Yet, the trail is as rocky as it can. Do watch out for the sharp rocks out there.
Soon later, you will reach Kalapatthar, the highest point on the Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return trip. You will see Mt Everest like never before; this place provides a clear view of the peak. Glaciers, lakes, and other mountains can also be seen from this viewpoint. By experiencing the site, you will know the reason why it is called the best viewpoint.
Take plenty of pictures before trekking back to Gorakshep following the same route.
You will take all of your belongings and leave the Gorakshep after breakfast. While you are on the brink of ending the tour, the helicopter will warm up for the flight. This Helicopter flight may takes from Gorekshep to Kathmandu will be around 70 minutes in a fine weather excluding ground handling time, The air time can also depend on the weather. You will get to view the bird’s eye view of the Everest Region along the flying time. In this way, you will complete the Everest Base Camp Trek and return by Helicopter. What an adventure you will have!
Trip Cost US$ 2800 Per person
Cost Includes:
- Airport to Hotel transfers on your arrival and departure.
- A professional guide during the trek ( English speaking )
- Porters to carry bag pack. one porter among two trekkers.
- All inclusive for guide and porter with full insurance cover.
- All three meals(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) throughout the trek.
- Tea / coffee during the breakfast.
- Seasonal fruits.
- Teahouse / Lodges accommodations during the trek.
- Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
- Helicopter Return from Gorekshep to Kathmandu after the trek.
- All of the necessary trekking permits.
- All of the ground transportations.
- All of the cost-related trekking permits, government taxes.
- Trekking gears like Sleeping bag, walking stick, down jacket, Duffle bags for the Porters to carry, etc. (all have to be returned upon the completion of the trip)
- Medical supplies and first aid kit with pulse oximeter.
Cost Excludes:
- Personal travel insurance.
- Visa Fee.
- Personal expenses like alcohol, smoking, tips, and donations.
- Personal trekking gear.
- Hotel in Kathmandu.
- Extra activities in Kathmandu.
| Start Date - End Data | Status | Cost | Book This Trip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/10/2023 - 11/18/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/11/2023 - 11/19/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/12/2023 - 11/20/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/13/2023 - 11/21/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/15/2023 - 11/23/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/22/2023 - 11/30/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/24/2023 - 12/02/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/25/2023 - 12/03/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/26/2023 - 12/04/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/28/2023 - 12/06/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 11/30/2023 - 12/08/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/01/2023 - 12/09/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/02/2023 - 12/10/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/03/2023 - 12/11/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/06/2023 - 12/14/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/09/2023 - 12/17/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/11/2023 - 12/19/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/13/2023 - 12/21/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/14/2023 - 12/22/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/17/2023 - 12/25/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/19/2023 - 12/27/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/21/2023 - 12/29/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
| 12/23/2023 - 12/31/23 | Guaranteed | US$ 2800 per person | Book this trip |
Frequently Asked Questions of Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return
What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return is Kala Patthar(5,645m). Kalapatthar is also the ultimate place of the trek; you will fly back to Kathmandu from there.
Which is the starting and ending point of the trek?
The trek starts from Lukla(2,860m) and it will end after reaching Kala Patthar(5,645m). You will reach Lukla via a flight from Kathmandu, and you will use a helicopter to return from Kala Patthar.
What is the total trekking length of Everest Base Camp Trek and Return Via Helicopter?
The total trekking length of this expedition will be 65 KM. As said earlier, it will start from Lukla and finish once you reach Kala Patthar.
How long will I have to trek during the trek?
You will trek anywhere from 3 to 8 hours daily. On a regular basis, you will be walking for 5 to 6 hours throughout the trip.
What are the required permits for doing this trek?
You will need two permits to do the trek: Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Permit. You can get these permits from the Nepal Tourism Office located in Kathmandu or from the respective counters in the Everest Region.
The Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit cost is around NPR 2000(USD 20) per person and Sagarmatha National Park Permit at around NPR 3000(USD 30) per pax. However, people from SAARC countries can get Sagarmatha National Permit for around NPR 1500(USD 15).
How Difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek and return by Helicopter Trip?
The EBC Trek with helicopter return is more accessible than the standard trek. You do not have to do a round excursion. You will be doing a one-way hike only that is around 65 KM. The helicopter return will avoid the other way’s hike. That is why the tour is not that difficult. However, it still can be difficult for the novice ones.
Will I get caught Altitude sickness on this trek?
It is never sure who and when a person can get caught by the illness in Everest Base Camp Trek. This trek takes you up to around an altitude of 5,645m, and at such heights, sickness is always probable. The only method to avoid it is to prepare rightly for the trek and follow the health precautions during the tour.
What happens If I get sick of mountain sickness during the trip?
You will get the necessary treatment from the team as soon as possible. If your situation is a little out of control, you will be given a quick helicopter rescue. However, you have to pay for the emergency evacuation. If you have travel insurance, that will cover such emergency and unprecedented costs during the trek.
What is the luggage limit for Lukla Flight and a Helicopter ride?
The luggage should not be more than 15 Kgs per pax.
What is the age limit for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return?
Surprisingly, there is no strict age limit for this trip. However, a participant must be capable enough to do the trek of 65 Km in such high altitudes. Indeed, a grown adult would like to do such an expedition.
How can I withdraw cash during the trip?
You can withdraw cash from numerous ATMs available in Kathmandu, Lukla, and Namche Bazaar. There are no ATM stations in other places than those mentioned. So, it is better to unload cash in Kathmandu and before leaving Namche Bazaar. After that, you will not get any ATM stations until you return to Kathmandu.
What are the chances of the trip delay?
Well, that depends on the very weather of the region. If all the conditions are right, the trip will happen right on time and schedule. Otherwise, you need to deal with delays as well. Therefore, it is better to have a flexible travel schedule.
Can I Customize the itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek 9 Days Helicopter Return?
Yes, you can customize the plan, but you have to contact the team about your request. The better the communication, the better will be the result.
