Everest Trek with Helicopter Return - 9 Days

TA Starbased on 7 reviews
Everest Trek with Helicopter Return - 9 Days
  • Duration9 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Maximum Altitude 5545m
  • Activity Trekking and Helicopter ride
  • Group Size 1-16
  • Accommodation Hotels in Kathmandu and Teahouses in the mountains
  • Meals Breakfast in Kathmandu and Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • Best Season March to May and September to December

With a helicopter return from Gorakshep to Kathmandu, All Nepal Hiking provides a 7-day Everest Base Camp Trekking package. A combination of trekking and a helicopter ride makes up this quick Everest trekking package. The 7-day Everest Base Camp Trek is an action-packed journey that brings you face-to-face with some of the region's most amazing sights, including Buddhist monasteries, Chortens, Mane walls, and Buddhist rock paintings. You'll also visit Namche Bazaar, a naturally endowed market, and an exciting swing bridge that spans a raging river. 
The greatest option for time-constrained trekkers who wish to complete the entire trail quickly is this Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return. With an added helicopter flight, it offers the experience of actual trekking.

Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

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Knowing the best times for an expedition is crucial for planning, especially for challenging treks like Everest Base Camp in Nepal. Spring and Autumn are considered prime seasons for these journeys due to favorable weather conditions.

Autumn (September-November):
Autumn follows the Monsoon season, offering clear skies and stunning views. The rain cleanses the landscapes, providing a fresh perspective of the Mahalangur Himalayas. With warm days, ample sunlight, and great visibility, this season is ideal for trekking. Temperatures range from 15 to 24ºC in higher elevations. While the first few weeks might still have some rain, Autumn's stable and calm weather lasts from mid-September to late November. It's a popular time, so expect other trekkers on the trail.

Spring (March-May):
Spring, marked by pleasant temperatures, stable weather, and blossoming landscapes, is another excellent time for Everest Base Camp treks. Temperatures range from 16 to 23ºC in higher areas. Clear skies, green surroundings, and transparent mountains create a beautiful trekking experience. Spring is busy, drawing numerous trekkers worldwide. Although not as crowded as in Autumn, the trails are still quite populated. Visibility is enhanced due to sunny days. Choose April for the best conditions for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return.

Summer (June-August):
Summer brings rain and cloudy weather to Nepal. From June to August, rainfall is common, affecting visibility and making trails slippery. Trekking during this time is challenging due to mud, leeches, and mosquitos. The trails are less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. However, trekking in Summer is not ideal for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return due to unstable weather conditions. Late August is relatively better, with lower precipitation levels.

Winter (December-February):
Winter, lasting from December to February, is cold and less frequented by trekkers. The daytime temperature ranges from 9 to 12ºC, and higher elevations experience freezing temperatures. The colder conditions present challenges, but some trekkers undertake low-altitude hikes. Snowfall is possible in higher areas, making higher altitude treks more difficult. While Winter offers snow-covered views and a fresh ambiance, operating helicopter tours in snowy Himalayan regions can be risky.

Remember that each season has its advantages and challenges, so plan accordingly based on your preferences and priorities for your Everest Base Camp expedition.

What to expect during a normal trekking day?- Everest Base Camp Trek 9 Days

The difficulty of the 9-day Everest Base Camp Trek primarily stems from the altitude rather than steep ascents or descents. The trail to Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar is considered moderately challenging. The itinerary for the Everest Helicopter Trek includes a direct return from Gorakshep to Kathmandu after visiting Everest Base Camp (5364 m) and Kalapathar (5545 m), significantly reducing the walking time to 4 days due to the helicopter ride.

Accommodation during the trek is in teahouses or lodges, offering a range of comfort levels from basic to more luxurious options. Meals are available from a varied menu with both local and Western dishes. While there are upscale accommodations along the trail, especially before Tengboche, beyond this point, trekkers typically share rooms or stay in standard lodges. If you're interested in luxury trekking in the Everest region, it's advisable to consult with our travel planners in advance.

The 9-day Everest Base Camp Trek presents a journey starting at Kathmandu (1300 m) and reaching up to Kalapathar (5545 m). Over the course of these 9 days, trekkers encounter a remarkable variety of landscapes and vegetation. The lower portions of the trail are covered in deciduous temperate forests, while the middle section features alpine vegetation, and the highest parts exhibit tundra vegetation. The route encompasses a diverse range of experiences, from cascading hills and riverbanks to moraines and glaciers.

Throughout the Everest Base Camp Trek 9 Days, you'll be treated to views of renowned mountains, including:

- Everest (8,849 m)
- Makalu (8,463 m)
- Lhotse (8,516 m)
- Cho Oyu (8,188 m)
- AmaDablam (6,812 m)
- Pumori (7,161 m)
- Cholatse (6,440 m)
- Thamserku (6,608 m)
- Island Peak (6,160 m)
- Nuptse (7,861 m)

This trek offers a comprehensive experience of the Khumbu region. Additionally, the inclusion of a helicopter tour from Gorakshep to Kathmandu elevates the journey's luxury factor. Observing the Everest Base Camp trail and the Gokyo Lake Valley from a helicopter provides breathtaking visuals. This trip combines the rich narratives of both walking the trail and soaring above the majestic hills, creating a truly exceptional adventure in Nepal.

 

Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, scientifically termed acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common concern among those embarking on the Everest Base Camp trek with a helicopter return. Rapid gains in altitude necessitate proper acclimatization to prevent AMS.

AMS symptoms encompass headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. If unaddressed, it can escalate, leading to high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE).

Mitigating the risk of AMS involves gradual ascents, adequate hydration, and refraining from alcohol and tobacco. Carrying medications like acetazolamide is advisable, alongside a preparedness plan for managing AMS indicators. With thoughtful planning and AMS awareness, your journey to Everest Base Camp can be both secure and enjoyable.

Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Recommended Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return:
 
1. Warm Clothing: Including a waterproof jacket, insulated pants, gloves, hat, and scarf.
2. Backpack: Choose a high-quality backpack with sufficient space for essentials, water, food, and personal items.
3. Hiking Boots: Sturdy boots with good grip and ankle support for varied terrain.
4. Sleeping Bag: A warm, comfortable sleeping bag suitable for cold altitudes.
5. Tent: A durable tent designed for high-altitude conditions, able to withstand wind and snow.
6. Headlamp: Essential for navigating in low light conditions.
7. Water Bottles: Carry at least two bottles to stay hydrated.
8. Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protection against UV rays at higher altitudes.
9. First Aid Kit: Basic supplies like pain relief, bandages, antiseptic wipes, etc.
10. Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability on challenging trails.
11. Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered during the trek.
12. Passport (valid for 6 months), travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage, passport-sized photos, flight itinerary, doctor's recommendation if needed, completed medical form for altitude sickness, proof of payment, permits (TIMS card, Sagarmatha National Park), emergency contact info, valid Nepal visa, and cash for expenses and emergencies.

Tailor your packing list based on individual preferences and needs, ensuring you're well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return.

 

Highlights
  • Lifetime Experience at the summit of Mt. Everest (8,848.86m), the highest point on Earth.
  • "Sagarmatha," the World's Highest National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • combination of the EBC travel with the luxury helicopter flight.
  • Enjoy the gorgeous mountainous landscape of Nepal, including villages, jungles, rivers, and more.
  • A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride in a thrilling helicopter.
  • The ideal vacation in Nepal would include a trip to the base camp of Mount Everest.
  • Fulfill your desire to see the Sherpa homeland and learn about its distinctive culture.
  • Discover Khumbu Glacier, Ica Fall, and Himalayan Shangri-La.
Itinerary

The 7- day Everest Base Camp trip is an excellent choice for travelers with limited time. The trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, then a short hike to Phakding. The route continues through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche before arriving at Everest Base Camp. After spending a night at the Base Camp, the climb continues to Kala Patthar for spectacular views of Mt. Everest before returning to Lukla. The trek provides an unparalleled experience of the Khumbu region, Sherpa culture, and the highest peak in the world.

  • Max. Altitude:2,610
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 
The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar is difficult yet beautiful. The journey begins with a suspension bridge crossing over the Dudh Koshi River, followed by a climb through lush woods of rhododendron and magnolia trees. As the journey continues, you will pass through little settlements such as Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsalle. Monjo is the entrance point of the Sagarmatha National Park, a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO with a varied mix of vegetation and fauna. The hike concludes with a challenging ascent to Namche Bazaar, the largest settlement in the Khumbu region. Along the route, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the neighboring mountains, including Kwangde, Thamserku, and Nuptse. When you arrive at Namche Bazaar, you'll have time to recover and acclimate to the altitude while visiting the town. Namche Bazaar is a lively trading hub and cultural center where you may explore the local market, museums, and monasteries. The town also has beautiful views of the Himalayas, including the famed peaks of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
 

  • Max. Altitude:3440m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We can tour Namche Bazaar which is the primary town of the Everest or Khumbu region and has government offices, ATMs, internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and a colorful market. Our guide will take you to explore around the nearest villages or hike up to Syangboche Everest View hotel for a couple of hours to resist your body with high elevation). 
 

  • Max. Altitude:3440m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche is breathtakingly magnificent. The trail winds through deep woods of rhododendron, juniper, and fir trees, with animals such as musk deer and Himalayan thar seen on occasion. The path also provides breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail ascends towards Kenjoma, where we'll briefly break for tea or snacks. We'll continue hiking through woods and suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, which provides a thrilling crossing over the raging Dudh Koshi River.  We'll drive through small towns and chortens, Buddhist stupas, and prayer flags flapping in the breeze as we approach Tengboche. Tengboche is a lovely settlement with a well-known monastery and magnificent views of the Himalayas. We'll spend the night in Tengboche at a tea house, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and immersed in the distinct Sherpa culture.

  • Max. Altitude:3,860 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6/7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch Dinner

The Tengboche-Dingboche trek is a popular route in Nepal's Khumbu region. The trail winds through the Himalayan terrain, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The climb from Tengboche to Dingboche is around 11.5 kilometers long and takes 5-6 hours. From Tengboche, the journey begins with a hard descent towards the Imja Khola River. After crossing the river, the trail ascends through rhododendron and juniper trees until the stunning Pangboche valley opens up. You will pass through various tiny villages and experience the breathtaking grandeur of the Himalayan scenery along the way. The trail also provides stunning views of peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Dingboche is a popular stopping point for trekkers en route to Everest Base Camp. The settlement is located at an elevation of 4,410 meters and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's also a great area to acclimate before ascending to higher levels. Overall, the journey from Tengboche to Dingboche is a moderate trek appropriate for most people of average fitness. However, adequate acclimatization and safeguards are required to avoid altitude sickness. Employing a local guide to guarantee a successful trip is also advised.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:4410m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, after having our breakfast we will head to Nangkartshang peak for acclimatization hike. Our goal is to gain altitude during the day and sleep low during the night. After reaching the top, we get the spectacular views of Makalu (8485m), Lhotse (8516m), Ama Dablam (6812m), Kantega(6782m), Cho Oyu (6160m). 

 

  • Max. Altitude:5610m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours hike
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We ascend to the steep terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The top of the ridge is filled with prayer flags and stones which are memorial shrines for climbers who lost their lives on Mt. Everest. As the trail drops to the Khumbu Glacier moraine, we find ourselves facing several great peaks including Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori, and Mahalangur Himal. As we are crossing Khumbu Glacier we can also see Mt. Nuptse.

  • Max. Altitude:4900 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trek to Everest Base Camp is not very difficult. We ascend and descend mostly on a glacier path. There is also a lot of meandering on rough terrains. As we reach the base camp, we enjoy the incredible melt patterns and admire the gently rounded ice towers on the upper part of the Khumbu glacier. The Everest Base Camp is stunningly beautiful. We can enjoy amazing views of Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori mountains from the base camp. After soaking in the beauty, we walk back towards Gorak Shep where we catch Helicopter to return to Lukla. 

  • Max. Altitude:2800m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours hike and 15 mins helicopter ride
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trip from Lukla to Kathmandu takes around 35 minutes and provides spectacular views of the Himalayan environment. Several airlines operate it, and it usually departs early in the morning. Although the pilots are competent and well-trained, the Lukla airport is regarded as one of the world's most perilous. You can take a cab or a private transfer to your hotel or other locations in Kathmandu once you arrive.

  • Max. Altitude:1300m
  • Time:30 mins flight
  • Meals:Breakfast

 

Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek Tips

Below are some recommendations for those embarking on the Everest Base Camp trek with a helicopter return:

1. Conduct research to familiarize yourself with the trek's route and potential hazards.
2. Engage in regular walks to build your fitness, aiding in acclimatization to higher altitudes.
3. Pack essential clothing, equipment, and supplies for the journey.
4. Consider obtaining travel and health insurance prior to the trek.
5. Ensure you possess all necessary travel documents and required visas.
6. Plan in advance for accommodations, transportation, and meals during the trek.
7. Budget adequately for the hike and any additional expenses that may arise.
8. Familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs to interact harmoniously with the residents.
9. Seek medical advice to assess any pre-existing health conditions that could be exacerbated at high altitudes.
10. Opt to hire a guide or porter to provide assistance during the trip.
11. Finally, approach the Everest Base Camp helicopter return trek with patience, a willingness to embrace new experiences, and a positive mindset in order to enjoy the journey fully.

Additional Requirements and Essentials for the EBC Trek With Helicopter Return:

1. Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
2. Comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage
3. Two recent passport-sized photos
4. Duplicate of your flight schedule
5. Medical endorsement from your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions
6. Completed medical form addressing altitude sickness concerns
7. Confirmation of trek payment
8. Essential permits like TIMS card and Sagarmatha National Park permit
9. Emergency contact details
10. Valid Nepali visa
11. Vital travel documents such as passport, visa, and travel insurance papers
12. Adequate cash for personal expenses, tips, and unforeseen situations
13. A well-equipped first aid kit and any personal medications if necessary.

Make sure to have these items prepared and organized to ensure a smooth and secure Everest Base Camp trek with a helicopter return experience.

Notes: The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is redirected to Ramechhap due to traffic congestion and a high influx of tourists during the high season. The high tourist season in Nepal is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In the season of tourism, there are many international and domestic flights operating in different sectors which is more than capacities of the small Tribhuban international airport. Due to this reason, there is the problem with air traffic and delays in Lukla flights too. Lukla flights are only in the morning time and it does not fly during day time due to heavy wind and foggy weather on the way to Lukla. If the flights are from Ramechaap, there is no issue of air traffic and flight duration is also less than from Kathmandu. Flight to Ramechhap will add 5 hours approx. to your journey. It seems like an added inconvenience but let’s see the brighter side

Route Map
Everest Trek with Helicopter Return - 9 Days map
Cost Details
Includes

 

  • Domestic flight tickets + Airport taxes for both ways (Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu) 
  • Helicopter Ride from Gorakhshep to Lukla 
  • Domestic Airport Transfer - one way 
  • Guide during the trek (his salary, food, insurance, accommodation, Our Company Sherpa guide Kathmandu/ Lukla their flight tickets)
  • Your food 3 meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek in the guest houses.
  • Porters (their salary food, insurance, accommodation from Lukla, 1 porter for two clients)
  •  Your accommodation in the mountain(Normal but neat & clean on twin sharing basis) in the teahouse during the trek
  • Permit fees (Sagarmatha National Park)
  •  TIMS card (Trekker’s Information Management System)
  • Medical kits
  • Register your name in the embassy
  • All Government tax
Excludes

 

  • All bar bills during the trek (soft drinks, hot drinks & alcoholic drinks)
  • Hotel in Kathmandu
  • International Airport Transfer
  • Monument entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu
  •  Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
  •  Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
  •  Travel insurance is required for emergency rescue and evacuation.
  •  Sweets, Cigarettes, Telephone bills, hot showers, Battery Charges, Wi-Fi, Heater Charge,s and your expenses, equipment during your trek beyond I mentioned above in a price included a section
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips for trekking staff and drivers (Tipping is respected but it is not obligatory) 
     
Clients Reviews
  • green star

    10 out of 10 EBC and Goyko Lake experience

    My husband and I completed the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass with All Nepal Hiking and had the best experience. From the start Jasmine was an incredible resource for all the logistics leading up to the trip, she went above and beyond to take care of us and customize our experience. Jasmine is very well connected and was able to get us a helicopter to Lukla when other operators were bottlenecked. She is also a lovely person we enjoyed getting to know!

    Our guide for the trek was Dinesh and our porter was Raja. We could not have done the trek without either of them. From the start they took such good care of us, kept us at a good pace avoiding any altitude sickness but still making good time with safety as the number one priority. It was no easy feat carrying our bags 80+ miles but Raja crushed it and went above and beyond with customer service and making us laugh along the way.

    Dinesh was professional and hospitable and taught us how to play Dhumbal our new favorite card game! I was struggling with some of the vertical descents on narrow pathways but he was right by my side the entire time taking care of me. Dinesh is very kind and compassionate, we plan to do future treks with him and consider him a good friend after our experience.

    Highly recommend All Nepal Hiking, their staff is incredible and allowed for a once in a lifetime experience!

    M
    Melinda YozampUnited States,Nov 2024
  • green star

    Everest Base Camp

    Thank you all Nepal Hiking for a wonderful trip. It was well organised by your team.
    Had the best stays and you guys ensured to provide us with great hospitality.
    Very thankful for a memorable trip

    K
    KirtiIndia,Oct 2024