Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
- Duration
- 12 days
- Max altitude
- 5,555 m
- Difficulty
-
Strenuous
Difficulty scale
- Easy Short walking days on good trails below about 3,000 m. Suitable for anyone in ordinary health, including families.
- Moderate 5 to 6 hours a day with some steep sections, reaching up to about 4,000 m. A reasonable level of fitness and a few weeks of preparation walking recommended.
- Strenuous 6 to 8 hours a day, high passes or altitudes above 5,000 m, and remote stretches. Good fitness, prior trekking experience and proper acclimatisation days are essential.
- Very strenuous Long days, multiple high passes or technical sections, sustained time above 5,000 m. For experienced, well-conditioned trekkers only.
- Best season
- Autumn (Sep–Nov) · Spring (Mar–May)
- Group
- Private
- From
- $2,300.00
Overview
The Base Camp trek walked in and flown out. You still walk the whole way up, then take a helicopter from Gorak Shep rather than repeating four days of the same trail, which saves the best part of a week.
Every departure is private and led by a government-licensed Nepali guide, so the plan flexes to your party and to the mountain. Permits, park fees and local taxes are inside the price you see.
Trip highlights
- The full walk in, no shortcut on the way up
- Helicopter out from Gorak Shep
- Saves roughly four days on the descent
- An aerial view of the route you just walked
Day by day
The itinerary
-
Day 1: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) and transfer to hotel 1,400 m Hotel
One of our officials will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, upon your arrival. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.
-
Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,840 m/9,318 ft) from Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) – 35 minutes or drive to Manthali/Ramechhap (474 m/1,555 ft) by shared tourist vehicle – 5 to 6 hours and a 20-minute flight to Lukla (2,840 m/9,318 ft), and then trek to Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft) – 3 to 4 hours 2,840 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
Manthali to Lukla Flight (March, April, May, September, October and November)
During peak seasons, such as March, April, May, September, October and November, the flight to Lukla will be operated from Ramechhap/Manthali due to air traffic expansion. The Manthali/Ramechhap airport is about a 5 to 6 hours drive away from Kathmandu. On this day, we wake up between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM, take an escorted shuttle to Manthali Airport in a shared tourist vehicle, and board a 20-minute flight to Lukla.Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (January, February, June, July, August and December)
The flight to Lukla is typically operated from Kathmandu during nonpeak seasons, which include January, February, June, July, August and December. Please be aware that the decision regarding the operation of flights solely depends on the airline and is influenced by the volume of travelers during a specific month. On this day, we wake up between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM. Our staff will escort you to the domestic airport terminal in Kathmandu, where you will board a 35-minute flight to Lukla.
Prepare your luggage for the trek the day before the flight. You will be arriving at the Tenzing Hillary Airport early in the morning. Breakfast in Lukla. Porters will meet group in Lukla and are assigned to carry luggage. For every two clients, one porter is assigned.Today we trek to Phakding. The trail is straightforward. We head out of Lukla and follow the Dudh Koshi River downhill. The route connects to the Namche Bazaar trail, just above Chaurikharka (2,713 m). Continuing, we come across the small village of Ghat. After a brisk hike, we arrive at Phakding.
-
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft) from Phakding – 5 to 6 hours 3,440 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
After breakfast, we follow the trail alongside the Dudh Koshi River while crossing suspension bridges along the way. After hiking for a while, we come upon Sagarmatha National Park and go through entry permit verification in the Everest region.
As the trek advances, we ascend a steep climb with astonishing perspectives of majestic Himalayas, splashing glacial rivers, multi-colored prayer flags, and sacred mani stones. We arrive in the charming Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar in the early evening.
-
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,286 ft). Hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880 m/12,730 ft) and back – 4 to 5 hours 3,880 m 4-5 hrs Teahouse
Trekking at higher elevations can lead to altitude sickness and other severe illnesses. That is why it is a must to acclimate to the increasing elevation. The initial acclimatization day on the Everest Base Camp Trek is scheduled in Namche Bazaar.
It is the main trading center in the Everest Region run by the Sherpa people. Here you can purchase various things such as trekking equipment, local handicrafts, and souvenirs.
On this day, we acclimate at Namche Bazaar by hiking nearby destinations. We make our way to Sherpa Cultural Museum and discover the history and culture of the Sherpa community.
Afterward, we hike up to Syanboche Airport (the highest airport in Nepal) and Hotel Everest View (the highest hotel on the planet). Gorgeous vistas of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other peaks can be seen from here.
-
Day 5: Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m/12,664 ft) from Namche Bazaar – 5 to 6 hours 3,860 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
The trail to Tengboche is rocky. The route descends early in the day and then climbs up to Tengboche.
Begin the trek advancing along the Dudh Koshi River. Witness the enchanting sight of the mountains along the way. Advance to Phungi Thenga, passing through lovely rhododendron forest.
On moving further, you arrive at Tengboche with an astonishing view of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Nuptse. The stunning views of lush rhododendron forest, glacier, rivers, and monasteries along the trek is rewarding.
After arriving in Tengboche, we visit the Tengboche monastery and observe Lamas performing a prayer ceremony either in the morning or evening.
-
Day 6: Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m/14,469 ft) from Tengboche – 5 to 6 hours 4,410 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
After spending a night in Tengboche, we head for Dingboche in the morning. The trek moves on to Deboche through the alpine forest, and we cross Imja Khola via a suspension bridge.
On the way, we come across a wall inscribed with stones. Later in the day, you will be rewarded with a captivating view of Ama Dablam. After we ascend to the village of Pangboche and follow the trail leading to Imja Valley.
At long last, we reach Dingboche village after making an ascent.
-
Day 7: Acclimatization Day. Hike to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m/16,676 ft) and back – 4 to 5 hours 5,083 m 4-5 hrs Teahouse
After acclimating for the first time at Namche, we will have a rest day today. Adapting to the increasing altitude and changing environment is essential for the human body to prevent altitude sickness.
Today we acclimate by making a hike to Nangkartsang peak. The view of Ama Dablam from the peak is awe-inspiring. After the acclimatization hike, you can explore the village or relax in the teahouse.
-
Day 8: Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m/16,109 ft) from Dingboche – 5 to 6 hours 4,910 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
On this day, we leave for Lobuche by hiking a gentle climb to Thukla. From this point, you’ll be stunned by the splendid sight of Taboche and Cholatse. Continuing, we pass through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and stone memorials.
These stone memorials are constructed in the memory of the departed souls of climbers, adorned by colorful prayer flags. After a brisk hike, we arrive in Lobuche village. The massive mountain vistas of Nuptse, Lobuche, and Pumori can be seen from the village
-
Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,598 ft) and then back to Gorak Shep (5,190 m/17,028 ft) – 8 to 9 hours 5,364 m 8-9 hrs Teahouse
Today there are two sections of the trek. First, the trail follows the route to Gorak Shep and then to Everest Base Camp.
After having breakfast, we leave Lobuche hiking along the Khumbu glacier while enjoying the magnificent view of Mt. Nuptse. Soon we reach the village of Gorak Shep.
From this point, we continue our trek all the way to Everest Base Camp. The trail ahead is challenging as it is rugged terrain. The captivating view of Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall is visible along the way.
Once we reach base camp, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, Khumbutse, and surrounding peaks.
It’s a great feeling to be present at the base of the world’s highest mountain. In addition, we may encounter expedition teams and climbers during peak seasons. We then retrace the path back to Gorak Shep.
-
Day 10: Early morning Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m/18,225 ft) and then descend to Gorak Shep (5,190 m/17,028 ft) – 4 to 5 hours. Shared flight to Lukla (2,840 m/9,318 ft) on Helicopter – 15 to 20 minutes 5,555 m 4-5 hrs Teahouse
Today we hike to the highest point of the Everest Base Camp Trek, Kala Patthar. The hike begins very early in the morning with a breathtaking sunrise view over the giant mountains. Kala Patthar is an excellent vantage point for the incredible view of Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and Mount Everest.
We descend to Gorak Shep to have breakfast, and then fly down to Lukla on a helicopter.
The helicopter flight is on a sharing basis. It’s not a private charter flight. If you want a private ride, please contact us for the price. Please note that in altitudes above 4,500 meters, the helicopters can land but can’t take off with more than 3 passengers.
So, if there are more than 3 people, the helicopter will take 3 people in the first shuttle and drop them off at a designated point below 4,500 meters. The point is usually the village of Pheriche.
Then, in the second shuttle, the helicopter will transfer the remaining passengers from Gorakshep; it will stop at the designated point to pick up the first three passengers and take all of them to Lukla. The helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Lukla takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on the weather and the number of passengers.
-
Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu – 35 minutes or Manthali/Ramechhap – 20 minutes from Lukla and same-day drive to Kathmandu by shared tourist vehicle – 5 to 6 hours 5-6 hrs Hotel
Lukla to Manthali Flight (March, April, May, September, October, and November)
The flight from Lukla to Manthali is a 20-minute flight. After that, it is about a 5 to 6 hour drive to Kathmandu. Please note that the driving hours may vary according to the highway traffic condition. You’ll be transferred to the hotel in Kathmandu on a shared tourist vehicle.Lukla to Kathmandu Flight (January, February, June, July, August and December)
The flight from Lukla takes about 35 minutes. After arriving at the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel in Kathmandu via a shared tourist vehicle. Please be aware that the decision regarding the operation of flights solely depends on the airline and is influenced by the volume of travelers during a specific month. -
Day 12: Transfer to the International Airport for final departure
Our thrilling EBC trek with helicopter return has come to an end. You will be escorted to the international airport by one of our airport representatives in preparation for your return trip.
We wish you luck in your future travels and hope to see you again in Nepal soon.
Altitude profile
The climb, day by day
Comfort tiers
Choose your level of comfort
| Amenity | Standardfrom $2,760.00 | Comfortfrom $3,256.80 | Luxuryfrom $4,002.00 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu hotel | 3★ | 4★ | 5★ |
| Trail accommodation | Standard teahouse | Best lodge in each village | Premium lodge where the route has one |
| Porter support | Shared porter | Private porter, lighter load | Extra porter, carry almost nothing |
| Transfers | Shared | Private | Private, throughout |
What's included
Included
- Included: Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel for 2 nights in Kathmandu including breakfast (Private room accommodation can be organized at an extra cost)
- Included: Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation during the trek for 9 nights in the Everest region with attached bathrooms in Lukla, Phakding & Namche.
- Included: All your standard meals during the trek (9 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches and 9 Dinners) including a tea or coffee with each meal.
- Included: Fresh seasonal fruits each day after dinner during the trek.
- Included: Purified drinking water during the trek using Water Filter or water purification tablets.
- Included: All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
- Included: Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
- Included: Kathmandu – Manthali – Kathmandu transportation by shared tourist vehicle
- Included: Shared helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Lukla
- Included: TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
- Included: Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park Permit
- Included: Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee
- Included: 1 duffel/kit bag, trekking map, sun hat, Buff (Neck Gaiter).
- Included: A comprehensive first aid kit, including an Oximeter to check pulse and oxygen levels daily in the mountains.
- Included: Trip completion certificate.
- Included: All administrative expenses and government taxes
Not included
- Not included: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Not included: International flight fare and airport departure tax
- Not included: Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 30 for 15 days visa, USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
- Not included: Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Not included: Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
- Not included: Tips to trekking staff and driver
- Not included: Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Not included: Any expenses other than the Price Include section
Your team
Led by a licensed guide
Every route is led by a government-licensed guide from our team. Licences are on record with us before departure, and you'll meet your guide once your trip is confirmed.
Guide language(s): English, Nepali
Group-size pricing
Walk together, pay less
Every trip is private, so the guide, permits and transfers cost the same however many walk. Sharing them is why the per-person price falls: arithmetic, not a sale.
| Group size | per person | You save each |
|---|---|---|
| 1 trekker | $2,760.00 | base rate |
| 2 to 3 trekkers | $2,300.00 | $460.00 |
| 4 to 6 trekkers | $2,160.00 | $600.00 |
| 7 or more | $2,025.00 | $735.00 |
Per person, including permits, park fees and taxes. Nothing is added at checkout.
Weather
What to expect, month by month
- Autumn (Sep–Nov)The most reliable trekking season: clear air, stable weather and cold nights, right after the monsoon clears.
- Spring (Mar–May)Warmer than autumn, with rhododendron forests in flower and slightly hazier mountain views as the season goes on.
Traveller reviews
What trekkers say
Why book with us
