| Trip code | EBC - Heli Return |
| Package name | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return |
| Duration | 12 |
| Max. elevation | 5545 m |
| Level | DIFFICULT |
| Transportation | All ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | Three-star hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House/Guest House during the trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | Kathmandu - Lukla - Namche Bazar - Tengboche - Dingboche - Laboche - Gorakshep - Everest Base Camp - Kathmandu |
| Cost | USD 2,499 per person |
Your journey commences upon arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport. A representative will greet you, and assist with your hotel transfer, and you'll have the chance to meet your fellow trekkers before a delicious Nepali dinner.
Prepare to embark on a captivating exploration of the Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your day begins with a hearty breakfast, setting the tone for cultural immersion.
Visit iconic sites like Swayambhunath (the "Monkey Temple"), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, where ancient rituals unfold against a picturesque backdrop. Patan Durbar Square showcases exquisite Newar architecture, while Bhaktapur Durbar Square reveals medieval charm.
Lunch introduces you to the flavors of Nepal, with a chance to savor traditional dishes. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide provides insights into the history, culture, and traditions that define this captivating region. This day promises to be a rich tapestry of experiences as you prepare for the upcoming journey to Everest Base Camp.
Your adventure kicks off with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering stunning Himalayan views. Landing at Lukla's unique airport. The trek leads through Sherpa villages, lush forests, and into Sagarmatha National Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy panoramic mountain vistas.
Finally, reach Phakding at 2700 meters, where you'll spend the night
Today's trek leads you from Phakding to the bustling mountain town of Namche Bazaar. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours and is filled with diverse landscapes and cultural encounters.
You'll follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. As you ascend, the trail leads through lush forests of pine and rhododendrons, providing a glimpse of the region's rich biodiversity.
After a challenging ascent, you'll arrive in Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region. This vibrant town, nestled in a natural amphitheater, offers breathtaking views of Everest and neighboring peaks. It's a hub for trekkers and climbers and boasts a lively market where you can find everything from trekking gear to local handicrafts.
Today is a crucial acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. It's essential to adapt to the increasing altitude to ensure your safety and well-being during the trek.
Rather than trekking to higher altitudes, you'll spend the day exploring the local surroundings. You might choose to hike to the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest-altitude hotels globally, to catch breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Alternatively, you can explore the town, visit the Sherpa Museum, or interact with the friendly locals.
This rest day allows your body to adjust to the thinner air, reducing the risk of altitude-related issues. Enjoy three nutritious meals: breakfast (B), lunch (L), and dinner (D), and stay hydrated to support your acclimatization process.
Today's trek takes you further into the heart of the Himalayas as you journey from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche or Deboche, depending on the specific route chosen. This 5 to 6-hour trek offers a mix of stunning scenery and cultural encounters.
Leaving Namche Bazaar behind, you'll continue to ascend along well-established trails. The path takes you through rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of the region's vibrant flora and fauna. The backdrop of towering peaks, including Ama Dablam, accompanies you throughout the journey.
As you reach Tengboche or Deboche, you'll be welcomed by the serene ambiance of these Himalayan villages. Tengboche is renowned for its monastery, where you can immerse yourself in spiritual rituals and enjoy awe-inspiring views of Everest and its neighboring peaks.
Today's trek leads you from Tengboche or Deboche, depending on your route, to Dingboche, a challenging yet rewarding journey. You'll spend approximately 5 to 6 hours on the trail, gradually ascending to higher altitudes.
As you leave Tengboche or Deboche behind, you'll find yourself immersed in the rugged beauty of the Himalayas. The path winds through alpine landscapes, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Lhotse and Ama Dablam.
Dingboche, at an elevation of 4400 meters, is a picturesque village nestled in the Imja Valley. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and Sherpa culture. The terraced fields and stone-walled houses add to the charm of this high-altitude settlement.
Today is a crucial acclimatization day in Dingboche. As you continue to gain altitude, it's essential to allow your body to adapt to the thinner air. This day of rest and exploration is vital for your well-being during the trek.
Rather than ascending to higher altitudes, you'll take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. A popular choice is a hike to Nagarjun Hill, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Makalu and Lhotse. Alternatively, you can explore the village of Dingboche, interact with locals, or simply relax and enjoy the mountain scenery.
Today's trek is a challenging but rewarding journey from Dingboche to Lobuche. The trail will test your endurance as you gradually ascend to higher altitudes, reaching an elevation of 4910 meters.
Leaving Dingboche behind, you'll follow a well-trodden path that takes you deeper into the Khumbu region. The landscape transitions to a more barren and rugged terrain, offering stark beauty and a sense of isolation.
Throughout the day, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, including Pumori and Nuptse. The starkness of the landscape is contrasted by the warm hospitality of teahouses along the way, providing essential sustenance and rest stops.
As you reach Lobuche, you'll find yourself nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and is a crucial stopping point for trekkers on their way to Everest Base Camp.
Today's trek is the culmination of your journey as you make your way from Gorakshep to the iconic Everest Base Camp. This challenging and awe-inspiring trek typically takes about 7 to 8 hours.
Your day begins in Gorakshep, a remote settlement surrounded by a barren, otherworldly landscape. As you set out for Everest Base Camp, you'll trek along rocky paths and across glacial moraines, feeling the altitude and the raw grandeur of the Himalayas.
Finally, you'll arrive at Everest Base Camp at an elevation of 5365 meters. Although you won't be ascending the summit, standing at Base Camp is a momentous achievement. Here, you'll be surrounded by the world's highest peaks, including the majestic Mount Everest. The energy and camaraderie of climbers from around the globe add to the atmosphere.
After taking in the breathtaking scenery and capturing the moment with photographs, you'll retrace your steps back to Gorakshep. This part of the journey offers different perspectives of the landscape and allows you to reflect on the incredible experience.
Your day begins with an early morning ascent from Gorakshep to the famed Kala Patthar, standing at an impressive 5545 meters above sea level. This iconic vantage point promises unrivaled panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants, including the crown jewel, Mount Everest.
As the sun paints the sky with hues of pink and gold, you'll hike to Kala Patthar, a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. The altitude and steep terrain make this a test of your physical and mental endurance. However, the breathtaking vistas that await make every step worthwhile.
Reaching Kala Patthar, you'll be greeted by the sunrise over Mount Everest, casting its first rays upon the world's highest peak. The sight is nothing short of spectacular, and the sense of accomplishment is profound.
After savoring this awe-inspiring moment and capturing it in photographs, you'll begin your descent back to Gorakshep.
From Gorakshep, you'll then prepare for your return journey to Kathmandu by taking a domestic flight. This scenic flight offers one last glimpse of the majestic Himalayan terrain before you bid farewell to the mountains.
As your unforgettable journey through the Himalayas comes to an end, it's time for your departure. This marks the closing chapter of an adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural immersion, and personal triumphs.
You'll check out of your accommodation in Kathmandu and head to Tribhuvan International Airport, where you'll board your flight back home or to your next destination.
As you bid farewell to Nepal, carry with you the cherished memories of the Everest Base Camp Trek with a Helicopter Return. The mountains have left their indelible mark on your heart, and the experiences you've gathered along the way will stay with you for a lifetime.
We hope you take with you not only the photographs and souvenirs but also the spirit of adventure, the camaraderie of fellow trekkers, and a deep appreciation for the grandeur of the Himalayas. Until we meet again on another remarkable journey, safe travels, and may the memories of this expedition stay with you forever.