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Everest Base Camp trekking with helicopter return

from 25 reviews
Best Price
Price starting from

$2,999 USD 2,799

per person

Duration

13 days

Max. Elevation

m

Group size

2+

Level
MODERATE
Transportation
Private Vehicle/Tourist Bus/Flight
Best Season
March-June & Sept-Dec
Accomodation
Double/Twin shearing in hotel/lodge
Meals
Full board (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) in Trekking & Breakfast basis in City
Starts at
Kathmandu
Ends at
Kathmandu
Trip Route
Kathmandu-Lukla-Namche-Tengboche-Dingboche-Lobuche-Gorek Shep-Everest Base Camp-Kalapathar-Gorek Shep-Kathmandu

Highlights


  • Scenic and cultural adventure in the comfort of best available luxury lodges.
  • Rooms facing views of mighty Himalayan peaks in the harmony of Sherpa culture.
  • Explore traditional villages and monasteries adorned with Buddhist religious artifact.
  • Daily views of high snowcapped peaks with the marvelous scenery of rolling green hills.
  • Walking into serene alpine woodland in the close backdrop of high  Mt. Everest.
  • Panoramic flights both ways with exciting walks to the base of world number one peak.
  • Adventure in the harmony of homely comfort with warm Sherpa traditional.


Introduction 


A trip that includes both trekking and a helicopter journey from Everest Base Camp is available. These excursions, which normally begin and conclude in Kathmandu, let visitors see the grandeur and majesty of the Himalayas without completing the whole walk to base camp. The helicopter flight from the base camp normally takes about an hour and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys below.
When you reach the base camp, you will have the opportunity to explore the region and learn about Mount Everest's history. You may also get the opportunity to interact with local Sherpas and learn about their culture and way of life. After spending some time at the base camp, the tour will conclude with a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu.

The base camp's high altitude might also be an issue to consider, since some people may suffer from altitude sickness. Before scheduling this sort of journey, it is best to speak with a doctor and travel operator.

Why book an Everest Base Camp helicopter tour?


There are several reasons why someone might want to join a trip that involves a helicopter journey to and from Everest Base Camp:
Time constraints: The entire walk to the base camp might take 7–12 days, depending on the terrain and the trekker's speed. Due to time limits or other obligations, this may not be practical for everyone. A trip with a helicopter return allows you to see the splendor of the base camp in less time.

Physical limitations: the trek to the base camp entails several hours of daily trekking and climbing across rugged terrain. This may be difficult for those who are in poor physical condition or have mobility issues. You can bypass the physical challenges of the trip by booking a tour with a helicopter return.

Cost: Trekking trips that include a helicopter return are often more costly than treks that require the entire journey to be completed on foot. They may, however, be a more inexpensive choice for those who wish to visit the base camp but do not have the time or physical capabilities to do the entire walk.

Comfort: A tour with a helicopter return allows you to travel in comfort, avoiding the physical demands of the trek. The entire journey to base camp provides beautiful aerial views of the mountains and valleys below, as well as extra time to tour the base camp and interact with local Sherpas.

Is an Everest base camp trek with a helicopter return ideal for you?


It is important to consider your physical abilities and comfort level when deciding whether to take a tour that includes both a trek and a helicopter ride to and from Everest Base Camp. The trek to the base camp involves walking for several hours each day and climbing over steep terrain, and it may not be suitable for people who are not in good physical condition or who have mobility issues.

If you are interested in experiencing the beauty and majesty of the Himalayas but do not want to complete the full trek, a tour with a helicopter return might be a good option for you. These tours are typically more expensive than tours that involve completing the full trek on foot, but they may be a more affordable option for people who do not have the time or physical ability to complete the full trek.

It is also important to consider the cost of the tour and whether it is within your budget. You should also consider the time constraints of the tour and whether it fits with your schedule. Finally, you should consult with a doctor and a travel agent to ensure that the tour is safe and suitable for you.

When is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?


The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp is based on your individual interests and the type of excitement you prefer. In general, the ideal months to trek to the base camp are September through November and March through May, when the weather is dry and sunny. These are the peak trekking seasons, and the routes are normally in good shape. Temperatures at the base camp are also moderate, with highs around 15-20 degrees Celsius (60-68 degrees Fahrenheit) and lows around -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit).

The weather can be particularly cold and dry throughout the winter season (December to February), with temperatures dropping well below freezing at night. At higher elevations, snow is widespread, and the trails can be slippery and difficult to cross. This is a fantastic time to trek if you want a more challenging and less crowded experience.

The monsoon season in Nepal lasts from June to August, and the region is prone to severe rainfall and thunderstorms. The trails may be muddy and slippery, and there is a greater risk of landslides. The trails may be less busy because it is considered the off-season for trekking. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and the routes may be in poor shape, making the walk more difficult.

Ultimately, the best season for trekking to Everest Base Camp depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you are looking for.

How should you prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek?


The trek to Everest Base Camp is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that requires a detailed plan. You can prepare for the trek by doing the following things:

Get in shape: The trek to the base camp entails trekking for several hours each day and climbing across steep terrain, so physical fitness is required. Begin a training program that involves both cardiovascular (running or cycling) and strength training (such as squats and lunges).

Acclimatize: The base camp is located at an elevation of around 5,380 meters (17,600 feet), which is far higher than most people are accustomed to. Allowing your body time to acclimate to the high altitude can help reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Before beginning the trek, consider spending a few days in Kathmandu (1,400 meters/4,600 feet) or Lukla (2,800 meters/9,200 feet).

Pack wisely: The weather in the Himalayas may be fickle, with temperatures varying from pleasant during the day to bitterly cold at night. Bring layers of clothing that you can easily add and remove, as well as a warm cap, gloves, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots.

Get vaccinated: Some vaccines, such as those for hepatitis A, COVID, and typhoid, are advised for visitors to Nepal. To establish whether medicines are appropriate for you, speak with a healthcare provider or a travel clinic.

Travel insurance: It is important to get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuations, as these can be costly in the event of an emergency on the trek.
Hire a trustworthy guide: Hiring a local guide for the journey to the base camp is strongly advised. A guide can provide useful information about the route, local culture, and safety, as well as assist you in adjusting to the high altitude. Hire a reliable guide with prior experience leading treks in the area.

Climate and weather conditions while trekking to Everest Base Camp


The weather and climate in the Everest region change depending on the season and altitude. The best months to trek to Everest Base Camp are September through November and March through May.

The weather can be particularly cold and dry during the winter months (December to February), with temperatures plunging well below freezing at night. At higher elevations, snow is frequent, and the trails can be slick and difficult to walk.

The summer months (June to August) are the monsoon season in Nepal, and the region is prone to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The trails may be muddy and slippery, and the risk of landslides is higher.

At the base camp (5,380 meters/17,600 feet), the weather is cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from -10 to 10 degrees Celsius (14 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and dropping well below freezing at night. It is important to bring layers of warm clothing and be prepared for changes in the weather.

Accommodation facilities Everest Base Camp Trek


You will have the option of staying in lodges (commonly known as teahouses) or tents during your climb to Everest Base Camp. The lodges are small guesthouses positioned along the trekking trail that offer basic lodging and meals. They often have shared dormitory quarters with bunk beds and, in some cases, private rooms. Most lodges feature a dining area where you can eat and chat with other trekkers.

The tents are usually provided by the trekking company or the guide, and they will be set up for you at designated campsites along the way. The tents are basic and may be shared with other trekkers. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and a sleeping pad, as these are not provided.

The accommodation facilities on the trek to the base camp are basic and may not be the same as what you are used to at home. It is important to remember that you will be in a remote and rugged environment, and the facilities will reflect this.

Trekking to Everest Base Camp: Local Culture and Religion


The Sherpa people, a Tibetan Buddhist minority renowned for their strong mountaineering history, live in the Everest region. The sherpas have a strong cultural and spiritual connection to the mountains, and they play an important part in the region's tourism economy.

You will have the opportunity to learn about Sherpa culture and their way of life during your climb to Everest Base Camp. Along the walk, you may witness prayer flags, Mani walls (walls adorned with stone tablets inscribed with the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum"), and chortens (stupas), all of which are key parts of Tibetan Buddhist culture. In the villages, you may also come across monasteries and lhakhangs (little temples), which are frequently utilized for prayer and meditation.

The Sherpas are polite and welcoming people who will be delighted to share their culture and customs with you. When visiting temples and monasteries, it is important to be respectful of their culture and religion, as well as to follow local customs and traditions.

Travel Insurance for Everest Base Camp


It is essential to get travel insurance for your Everest Base Camp climb to protect against unforeseen situations such as medical crises, evacuations, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen luggage.

When choosing a travel insurance policy, be sure it includes coverage for high-altitude treks as well as emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Consider obtaining trip cancellation and interruption coverage in case you need to cancel or shorten your vacation due to unforeseen circumstances.

Some things to look for in a travel insurance policy for the Everest Base Camp trek include:
Medical coverage: Choose a policy that provides coverage for medical emergencies, including altitude sickness and other illnesses that may occur during the trek.

Evacuation coverage: Choose a policy that provides coverage for evacuations by helicopter or other means in case of a medical emergency or other unforeseen event.
Trip cancellation and interruption coverage: Choose a policy that provides coverage in case you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical emergency or a natural disaster.

Baggage coverage: Choose a policy that provides coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage.

It is important to read the fine print of your travel insurance policy and to understand what is and is not covered. It is also a good idea to consult with a travel agent or a travel insurance specialist to determine the best policy for your needs.

Altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp Trek


Altitude sickness, commonly known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common disease caused by rapidly ascending to high altitudes. Headache, nausea, vomiting, exhaustion, and difficulty sleeping are all symptoms of AMS. In severe circumstances, AMS can develop into life-threatening diseases such as high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).

As you ascend higher in altitude, the danger of altitude sickness grows, and it is a concern for trekkers and climbers on the Everest Base Camp journey, as the base camp is located at a height of roughly 5,380 meters (17,600 feet). To lessen the risk of AMS, allow your body time to acclimate to the high altitude by gradually ascending and taking rest days as needed. While at high elevations, it is also important to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and smoking.

If you have AMS symptoms, you should descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible and seek medical assistance if they do not improve. Medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox) may be used to help prevent or treat AMS in some circumstances.
If you have a history of AMS or other medical issues, you should visit a doctor before embarking on a journey to the base camp. Your doctor can advise you on whether the trek is safe for you and give tips for preventing or managing AMS.

Washing and toilet facilities at the Everest Base Camp Trek


You will be staying in lodges (teahouses) and tents along the way to Everest Base Camp. These rooms may have different amenities, but they will normally have basic washing and toilet facilities.

In the lodges, you may have access to a shared washroom with a sink and a western-style toilet. These amenities may be simple and straightforward, lacking hot water and toilet paper. Some lodges may also offer showers, but these may be cold-water showers that are not always available.

In the tents, you will generally be provided with a basic toilet tent with a chemical toilet. These toilets are similar to portable toilets and are designed for use in remote areas. They may not be as comfortable as a western-style toilet, but they are functional and generally well-maintained.

It is important to remember that the facilities on the trek may be basic and may not be the same as what you are used to at home. It is a good idea to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer and to be prepared for the possibility of taking cold water showers.

Trip Itinerary

Day

1

On arrival at Kathmandu international airport via respective airlines, where you will be received by our office staff and guide with a warm welcome then transfer to your hotels in the hub of the city.

After checking into your rooms and getting refreshed join the other groups for a briefing on Everest Base Camp Heli Trekking, our guide offers you with useful important information regarding trek and your stay in Nepal with us.

The evening includes welcome dinner in a nice and authentic Nepalese restaurant with Folk Culture program of Nepal while having your dinner.

Day

2

Morning, depart from the hotel for an exciting tour around Kathmandu at places of great interest,  Kathmandu city and its valley steeped with historical and religious monuments temples and monasteries listed as World Heritage Sites.

After an interesting tour afternoon free to relax and preparation for Everest Base Camp Heli trekking next early morning with a flight to Lukla.

Day

3

Starting early morning transfer to domestic airport for short and scenic flight to Lukla, taking a smaller aircraft (Twin Otter or Dornier) during 30 minutes on air with amazing panorama of Himalayan series of peaks with Mt. Everest, as the plane lands on its unique uphill runways reaching Tenzing & Hillary airport in Lukla.

From here a slow start with few hours of walks on downhill past many Sherpa farm villages with well-tended crops and vegetable fields and terraces with occasional views of snow-capped peaks of Kwangde and Kusum Khanguru, and then reaching our first overnight stop of the trek at Phakding in the comfort of nice and cozy lodge located by the raging Dudh Kosi River. 

Day

4

Today with a long uphill walk to reach at famous Namche Bazaar, starting with the gradual walk following Dudh Kosi River upstream crossing few bridges to reach Sagarmatha National Park entrance near Monjo village.

Sagarmatha for Everest in Nepalese, while Sherpa calls Chomolungma (of Tibetan origin) in both languages, means 'Great Mother', from here a pleasant walk on river bed then climb for few hours into the forested trail with views of snow-capped peaks, as this scenic walk reaches you at exciting Namche Bazaar.

Day

5

A rest day at Namche Bazaar for necessary acclimatization, before heading higher area an ideal spot for the free day at this height above 3,440 m high.

In Namche spend the day with a scenic hike to viewpoints on top Namche facing Mt. Everest-Amadablam and other range of peaks, afternoon explore the streets and shops, Namche holds a colorful and busy Saturday Market once a week.

Day

6

From Namche walk leads on a gradual scenic path with downhill to Imjatse River at Phung-Tenga for lunch, afternoon uphill climb into rhododendron, pines, fir forest with grand views of snowcapped peaks.

After few hours of climb reaching ahyangboche Monastery, enjoy marvelous views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Kangtenga, Thamasarku, Kwande with magnificent Amadablam, an afternoon with time to visit its interesting monastery and observe monks and priest on prayer.

Day

7

Morning on the downhill for an hour towards Imjatse River, after crossing a bridge walking into an open country where tree lines stop for few short juniper and rhododendron bushes, uphill for a while to reach at Pangboche village at 3,900 meters.

This is the last permanent village before Dingboche and beyond, from here a slow climb to Somara for lunch and continue to walk with the climb to Dingboche village for an overnight stop, located within scenic Imjatse valley with excellent views of Amadablam and Island Peak.

Day

8

A rest day for proper acclimatization here a short hike up to Nakarjung hills for better views of surrounding peaks with Mt. Makalu towards east adjoining.

For some energetic people optional walk to Chukung at 4,760 m high, a small settlement within Imjatse valley offers incredible views of Island Peak, Lhotse Shar, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam.

Day

9

After a nice and pleasant stop at Dingboche, as our morning walk lead to short climb facing excellent views, and then walk on a gradual scenic trail to Thugla for lunch, this is where massive Khumbu glacier melts into a raging river.

From here trail Pheriche and Dingboche trail join towards Everest Base Camp, after a break a steep climb for an hour to Thugla pass, witness stone memorials of unfortunate climbers who died climbing on Mt. Everest, Lhotse or other high mountains. From here a nice walk to Lobuche for an overnight stop.

Day

10

Today our adventure takes you at Everest Base Camp our main goal and highlight of the trip walking for few hours with the short steep climb in between glacier and moraine, then reaching at Gorakshep, beneath the lofty peak of Pumori and Kalapathar rocky hill.

Walk continues towards Everest base camp, at base camp enjoy views of massive Khumbu Ice Fall and glaciers, after an exciting time with the experience of a lifetime retrace the journey back to Gorakshep for an overnight stop.

Day

11

Early morning climb to Kalapathar at above 5,545 m high, highest point of the adventure with magnificent views of mountains includes Mt. Everest at close distance, after a great time on top descend back to Gorakshep for breakfast.

From Gorakshep, our adventure completes on taking a chopper flight to Kathmandu with grand views of mountain range all the way to Kathmandu.

On reaching Kathmandu domestic airport transfer back to your hotel with a free afternoon to relax after a great and wonderful time on Everest Base Camp Heli Trekking.

Day

12

Today a free day in Kathmandu reserved extra day in case of flight delay and cancellation in Khumbu and Everest high region, due to unfavorable bad weather conditions which can occur sometimes as Himalaya weather can be unpredictable.

If all goes well as per our guideline set itinerary, one can enjoy this day relaxing with individual activities or join in for another exciting tour around Kathmandu at places of interest.

Day

13

Last day in Nepal, country of Himalayan wonders and as per your international flight time depart for homeward bound or to next respective connecting destinations.

Our staff and guide transfer you to Kathmandu airport after a mesmerizing memory and great time on Everest Base Camp Heli Trekking.

Inclusions

Includes

  • All airport pick up drop off by private vehicle (for both international and domestic flights)
  • 03 night twin/double sharing accommodation on BB at 3 star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu with private vehicle (entrance fees extra)
  • Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu flight with airport departure tax
  • National Park entrance fee and Trekkers’ Information Management System ( TIMS card)
  • A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking, well-trained, Government license holding guide. Price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
  • 02 guest to 01 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation and equipment
  • Your cost includes insurance, wages, food and lodging for both your guide and porter. We take excellent care of our guides and porters, they are like family to us.
  • Best available twin sharing lodge accommodation during the trek (private bathrooms with hot showers are provided at Phakding, Namche and Lukla)
  • Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
  • Snacks of biscuits/peanuts and seasonal fresh fruits dessert during the trek
  • All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary

Excludes

  • Your Nepal Visa fees (should bring small accurate fees in USD and 02 passport size photos)
  • All the International air fare from and to Kathmandu (no need to pay departure tax for international flight)
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation
  • In case of extra more nights accommodation, lunch and dinner in city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of itinerary
  • Your Personal expenses such as ( laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc)
  • The Tips to the trekking crews and drive
  • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control
  • Anything not included in service includes column

Complimentary

  • Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant
  • First aid kit
  • Holiday Tours Nepal’s sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirt, cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
  • Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily during the trek (very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms). This helps ensure your trek is in the safest hands possible.
  • One-hour complimentary spa/massage in Kathmandu after the trek

Frequently Asked Questions

Activity Level rating of Everest base Camp Helicopter Trek

A trekker or walker who is able to hike normally 5-6 hours per day carrying a light weight backpack will be fit enough to do this trekking. There are stone steps up and downs which are uneven and due to some long descents your legs may feel shaky so we recommend the use of walking poles. The maximum altitude of the trek is 5545 m, so you need to be careful about your health and the altitude related risks. To properly acclimatize one needs to walk slowly and drink more water.

Safe drinking water on Everest base Camp Helicopter Trek

Generally, you can find bottled water at lower altitude places but it gets harder to find it in higher elevation places and it gets more expensive. In those higher altitudes we recommend you drink previously boiled water which tea houses sell for a small fee. You can also bring chlorine tablets to purify your water if you wish. Due to lack of regulation on the discard of plastic bottles it is probably better to use boiled water, very helpful for the protection of our environment.

Recharging Batteries of Electronic Items on Everest base Camp Helicopter Trek

Hydro electricity or solar power sources are used to charge your electrical items like camera, batteries, iPod, phone etc. Tea houses or lodges may charge small fee per hour for charging facilities. We recommend buying adaptors before the trip since plugs are limited. In Nepal 220-240 volt power is used and sockets fit round and flat plugs.

Extra Advice for Everest base Camp Helicopter Trek

In your trekking you might come across some beautiful and sweet children and you may want to distribute balloons, chocolates, money and pens as many trekkers have felt same. But it is best not to do so because it encourages them to beg. In the trekking, keep your valuables safe. Do not leave valuables behind. Ensure that you lock your door when you leave your room and do not hang anything outside at night.

Garbage Disposal

Use a dustbin and do not throw anything into the fire. Carry garbage in the way where dustbin facilities are not available and conserve the environment.

Spending Money per Day

It mainly depends upon spending habits, normally you should allocate US$ 9-12 per meal in Kathmandu and Pokhara. On trekking, US$ 10-15 a day is good enough to buy drinks and chocolates.

Travel Insurance for Everest base Camp Helicopter Trek

You should be sufficiently protected and need to have travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation, lost items, liabilities, injuries and medical treatment. Ensure the insurance covers all the activities in the Himalayas. Trekking Planner can offer the appropriate medical response based on your policy and insurance.

Washing and Toilet facilities for Everest base Camp Helicopter Trek

All the guest houses offer hot showers, which can be in the bathroom or can be a bucket of hot water. Please note that at high altitude there may not be enough hot water for all the trekkers. Limit the use of hot water unless the water is solar heated or firewood for the ecological reason. Every lodge has some kind of washing facilities but you must carry a bar of soap. If the water froze then ask your guide to get warm bowl of water.

Toilets are mainly Asian squat style. Toilets are outside your room and it varies in how clean they are. You should not through toilet paper in the toilet hole rather you should use rubbish bin that is kept inside the toilet.

Tea Houses

On this trekking route local people have built tea house lodges with food and beverage facilities. A simple room usually has two narrow beds. While staying in the tea houses you will have the opportunity to interact with the charming local people and experience their hospitality.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a change in a body due to high altitude, decrease in atmospheric pressure makes breathing difficult due to less oxygen. Mainly, it happens above 3300m (10,000ft). Signs and symptoms are as follows:

  • Headache/Dizziness
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • tiredness/fatigue
  • Sleepy but can’t sleep
  • Loss of Appetite

Prevention for this is to dress warmly as per weather conditions, drink and eat plenty, walk slowly and climb high sleep low. Keeping hydrated, but make sure you avoid alcohol.

How Can I Plan and Confirm My Trip?

Holiday Tours Nepal is the government licensed trekking company in Nepal as we can see a photos of legal documents in about us section. Under following terms and condition, we accept your booking:

We require a non-fundable deposit of 15% as down payment in advance in order to book flight tickets, hotel booking and Tims Cards, as well as permits. Booking must be done 5 days earlier and the amount can be either, a Bank Transfer, Western Union, Money Gram, or a Credit Card with the balance payable upon your arrival in Nepal

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