Govt Licence no: 5968/2009
Call Whatsapp/Viber
+977 9849 116 284
Mail Us
nepaleverestguide@gmail.com

Everest Base Camp Trek and Helicopter Return

3 Jul 2024 Santosh Gauli

Langtang trek and helicopter return from kyanjin gompa

Trip Information:

The Everest Base Camp Trek and helicopter return is a thrilling and unique way to experience the beauty and majesty of the world’s highest mountain. The trek begins with a short flight by plane from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region and the starting point of the trek.

From Lukla, trekkers will begin their journey by hiking to Phakding, a small village located on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. The trail to Phakding is relatively easy and offers great views of the surrounding mountains.

From Phakding, the trail continues to Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region and the gateway to Mount Everest. Namche is a fascinating place to explore, with its colorful markets, traditional Sherpa culture, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

After Namche, the trail continues to Dingboche, a picturesque village located at the base of the Imja Tse mountain. Dingboche is a great place to acclimatize and explore the surrounding area before continuing to Gorakshep.

Gorakshep is the final stop before reaching the base camp of Mount Everest. This is where trekkers will spend the night before embarking on the final leg of the trek to the base camp. The trail to the base camp is Gradual rocky terrain and strenuous, but the views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest, are truly breathtaking.

Once at the base camp, trekkers will have the opportunity to explore the area and take in the awe-inspiring views of the mountain. After visiting the base camp, trekkers will return to Gorakshep for the night before flying back to Kathmandu via helicopter.

The entire trek typically takes 7-10 days and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who are physically fit and are comfortable hiking at high altitudes. It’s important to note that the cost of the trek can vary depending on the number of people in the group and the level of service desired. The peak trekking season for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek – 8 Days is in Spring (February-May) and Autumn (September-November) because the weather is relatively stable and mild during these months.

Helicopter rescue from Everest Base Camp in case of altitude sickness or other Emergencies

EBC helicopter trip
The helicopter landed at Kalapatar to observe Mt. Everest and the entire Everest Himalayas.

Helicopter rescue from Everest Base Camp is possible in case of altitude sickness or other emergencies. However, due to the high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions, it can be challenging to operate helicopters in the area. Helicopter rescues are typically conducted by specialized teams who have experience in the region. It is important to note that helicopter rescues can be expensive and should only be considered in life-threatening situations. It is also essential to have proper travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuations before embarking on any high-altitude expeditions.

Altitude sickness on the Everest Base Camp trek:

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek takes trekkers to elevations above 5,000 meters, where the air is thin and the body needs to adjust to the lack of oxygen. Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common concern for trekkers on this trek. Symptoms of AMS can include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, and dizziness.

To avoid altitude sickness, it’s important to acclimatize properly by ascending gradually and allowing the body time to adjust. It’s also important to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and heavy exertion. Trekkers should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of AMS and should descend immediately if they experience any of these symptoms.

It is also recommended to consult a doctor before starting the trek as well as carrying medication such as Diamox or Acetazolamide to assist in the acclimatization process.

It’s important to note that the risk of altitude sickness increases with altitude and that some individuals may be more susceptible to it than others. However, by taking the necessary precautions and being aware of the signs and symptoms, trekkers can greatly reduce their risk of altitude sickness on the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek.

Best time for Everest Base Camp trek:

The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp is during the Spring (February to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is relatively stable and mild, making for the best trekking conditions. The temperature is pleasant, and the sky is usually clear, providing great views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, during the autumn season, the climbing expeditions to the summit take place which makes it more interesting. Monsoon season and winter can be challenging due to heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and low visibility respectively. It’s important to be well prepared and consult a doctor before embarking on the trek.

About food & Accommodation on the Everest base camp trek:

The Everest Base Camp trek offers basic accommodation in a combination of lodges and teahouses. These facilities provide comfortable beds, blankets, and pillows. Meals are also available at these lodges, which include a mix of traditional Nepali dishes and Western cuisine. The food and accommodation are relatively basic and may not meet urban standards, but it is adequate for the trek. The cost of food and accommodation is often included in trekking packages, but trekkers can also choose to pay separately. As you move to higher altitudes, facilities are less available, so trekkers should pack accordingly and be prepared for the increase in the cost of food and accommodation.

Fitness and health requirements for a helicopter trek to Everest Base Camp.

While a helicopter trek to Everest Base Camp requires less physical exertion than a traditional trek, it is still essential to be in good health and have a moderate level of fitness. Participants should be able to handle high-altitude conditions and the rigors of flying in a helicopter. It is recommended to consult a physician before embarking on the trek to assess overall health and fitness. It is also essential to acclimatize properly to the high altitude and be aware of any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect the journey.

After completing your Everest Base Camp trek, consider taking a short 1-3 day trip to explore more of the country.

A. Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour

B. Nagarkot tour for sunrise on a private car/jeep

C. Chandragiri Tour in Kathmandu

D. Pokhara Tour

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu city (1,350m/4,428ft)

Upon landing at the Kathmandu TIA airport, you will be greeted by our airport representative who will escort you to your hotel. After checking in, you will have time to freshen up and rest. Later, we will meet you at your hotel to discuss the details of the trek and take care of any remaining payments.

Day 02: Early flight to Lukla then trek to Phakding (2651m/8700ft)

We will wake up early to catch a Twin Otter plane to Lukla, an 8km journey taking 30 minutes. Upon arrival, we will meet our group and begin our trek to Phakding. The trail is a gradual descent through Cheplung, Thadokoshi, and Ghat, taking about 3 hours of easy walking. Along the way, we will pass by farming lands, Gompa, and Sherpa huts, and enjoy views of the holy, unclimbed mountain of Khumbila. We will spend the night in the spread-out Sherpa village of Parking.

Inclusive in the package: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3438m/11,280ft) – About 6 hour walk

We will have an early breakfast and follow the trail along the Dudh Koshi River. The first 2-3 hours of walking will involve a gradual ascent, passing through local villages such as Toktok and Manjo, before reaching Jorsalle. At Manjo, we will check our permits and then descend to Jorsalle for lunch. The trail then gradually climbs to the highest bridge before a steep ascent to Namche. Today we will cross suspension bridges and walk through pine forests to reach Namche Bazaar, a large Sherpa village with 50 lodges. We will spend the night in Namche Bazaar.

Inclusive in the package: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 04: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft):

We start our trek in the morning after breakfast, the first 20 minutes will be ascending, then an easy walk to Sanasa with views of snow-capped mountains. After Sanasa, the trail gradually descends through the pine forest to Funky Thanga, where we will stop for lunch. The trail then steeply climbs to Tyangbuche, a 5-6 hour walk covering 10km on zigzag trails. We will spend the night in Tyangbuche.

Inclusive in Package: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 05: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft): 9km, 5 – 6 hours

We will descend and trek through a forest into a lush, green valley and Rhododendron forest. Along the way, we will have a spectacular view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. As we walk down to Debuche, we will follow Ijma Khola and the trail will slightly climb to Pangbuche, crossing a bridge. The views of the surrounding mountains will be even clearer after Pangbuche village. The trail will continue to gradually climb into the Ijma valley, where we will cross a small bridge over Pheriche Khola, and make a final ascent to Dingboche. We will stay overnight in Dingboche. The trek is about 9km and takes about 5 hours.

Inclusive in the Package: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 06: Dingboche: acclimatization

We will spend another day resting in Dingboche, as it is a high-altitude location. We will have a late breakfast, then hike up Nagarjun Hill for 2-3 hours. The rest of the day will be spent resting in Dingboche for acclimatization.

Inclusive in the package: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07: Dingboche to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft) – 7km, 5-6 hours walk

We start our walk with a gradual 2.5-3 hour climb to Dhukla (4645m), located at the end of the Khumbu Glacier massif. The trail to Lobuche will be steeply uphill from Thukla for about an hour to Chupki Lara, where we can see an array of stones, prayer flags, and memorials for those who have lost their lives during the climb. Some notable memorials include American mountaineer Scott Fischer and 10-time Everest climber Sherpa Babu Chhiri Sherpa. After the memorial, the trail gradually climbs but is easier than before. We will follow the Lobuche Valley along the bank of small streams coming from Lobuche and then reach Lobuche, a small area with few lodges and similar accommodations. We will spend the night in Lobuche.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 08: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft) visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft): 13km, 6-7 hours

We will start the day early with breakfast in Lobuche and trek for about 3 hours to reach Gorak Shep. The trail will be easy for the first 1.5 hours, then we will cross rocky, volcanic, zigzag trails before reaching Gorak Shep. At Gorak Shep, we will have lunch and continue to the Everest Base Camp, passing the Gorak Shep lake and the Indian Army mountaineers memorial. The trail can be confusing, so it is best to follow the guide. We will pass through rocky dunes, zigzag trails, small streams, and old icy trails before reaching the EBC. The base camp offers a colorful contrast to the gray surroundings, especially in spring. From the base camp, we can view the mountains of Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori. We will return to Gorak Shep for the night. Overnight in Gorak Shep.

Inclusive in the Package: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 09: Gorakshep-Kalapather-Gorakshep- Lukla-KTM

We will begin the day early to hike to the Kalapatthar viewpoint, which is 5545m high and takes about 2 hours from Gorak Shep. The viewpoint offers the finest panorama of the Everest range, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Pumori, Khumbutse, Changatste, and many more. After enjoying the view, we will return to Gorak Shep and fly by helicopter to Lukla, a 20-minute flight. From Lukla, we will fly to Kathmandu and spend the night there.

Inclusive in the package: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 10: Departure day

Today marks the end of your Nepal trip. We will arrange for transportation to the airport according to your flight schedule. We hope you had an enjoyable experience with our team and would appreciate your feedback and recommendations. We look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal in the future. Safe travels back home.

Inclusive in the package: Breakfast

Helicopter landing sites and restrictions in the Everest region

In the Everest region, there are several designated helicopter landing sites for rescue and transportation purposes. Some of the commonly used sites include:

  • Kalapathar: This is a popular site for helicopter landings, located at an altitude of 5,545 meters. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest.
  • Everest View Hotel: This hotel is located at an altitude of 3,880 meters and offers spectacular views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. It is a popular spot for helicopter landings and sightseeing tours.
  • Lukla: This is the main gateway to the Everest region, and its airport has a short runway that is suitable for small aircraft and helicopters. It is a common landing site for trekkers and climbers who are starting or ending their journeys.

There are certain restrictions in place for helicopter landings in the Everest region. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) regulates all aviation activities in the region, and helicopters must obtain permits before landing. Additionally, weather conditions can change rapidly, making it challenging to operate helicopters safely. Helicopter pilots must be trained and experienced in high-altitude operations and be familiar with the region’s terrain and weather patterns.

Everest Base Camp to Lukla Helicopter flight cost, and time

The cost and time of a helicopter flight from Everest Base Camp to Lukla can vary depending on several factors, including the time of year, weather conditions, and the tour operator. On average, the flight takes about 15-20 minutes and costs between USD 1110 to USD 1400 per person. Some tours may include additional stops and sightseeing, which can increase the duration and cost of the flight. It is essential to research and compare options before booking a helicopter flight to ensure the best value for money and a safe and enjoyable experience.

Packing and equipment suggestions for a helicopter trek to Everest Base Camp

Here are some packing and equipment suggestions for a helicopter trek to Everest Base Camp:

  • Warm layers, including a down jacket and thermal underwear
  • Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support
  • Sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen
  • Daypack for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and camera gear
  • Personal first aid kit with any necessary medications
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Water bottle or hydration system
  • Cash and credit cards for emergencies and souvenir shopping
  • Lightweight rain jacket and pants
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.

EBC Trek with helicopter return  Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu city (1,350m/4,428ft),

Day 02: Early fly to Lukla then trek to Phakding (2651m/8700ft),

Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3438m/11,280ft) – About 6-hour walk,

Day 05: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft),

Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300 ft): 9km, 5 – 6 hours,

Day 07: Dingboche: acclimatization,

Day 08: Dingboche to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft) – 7km, 5-6 hours walk,

Day 09: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft) visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft): 13km, 6-7 hours,

Day 10: Gorakshep-Kalapather-Gorakshep- Lukla-KTM,

Day 11: Departure day.

Lukla to Everest view Hotel helicopter flight and cost

The cost and time of a helicopter flight from Lukla to Everest View Hotel can vary depending on the tour operator and weather conditions. On average, the flight takes about 10-15 minutes and costs between USD 300 to USD 450 per person. The cost may be higher or lower depending on the number of passengers, the time of year, and any additional services or amenities provided by the tour operator. It is essential to research and compare options before booking a helicopter flight to ensure the best value for money and a safe and enjoyable experience.

Lukla to Kalapathar helicopter tour time and price

The time and cost of a helicopter tour from Lukla to Kalapathar can vary depending on the tour operator and weather conditions. On average, the flight takes about 20-30 minutes and costs between USD 800 to USD 1200 per person. The cost may be higher or lower depending on the number of passengers, the time of year, and any additional services or amenities provided by the tour operator. It is essential to research and compare options before booking a helicopter tour to ensure the best value for money and a safe and enjoyable experience.

Differences between helicopter tours organized by local companies and international tour operators

There are several differences between helicopter tours organized by local companies and international tour operators in the Everest region:

Experience and expertise: Local companies like Safe Holiday Adventure often have more experience and expertise in the region due to their familiarity with the terrain, weather, and local customs. International tour operators may have a broader perspective but may not have the same level of local knowledge.

Cost: Local companies may be able to offer more affordable prices due to lower overhead costs and a more extensive network of contacts in the region. International tour operators may charge higher prices due to their higher operational costs and brand recognition.

Quality of service: Local companies may be able to provide more personalized and attentive service due to their smaller size and local focus. International tour operators may have more resources to invest in technology, safety, and customer service.

Safety and regulations: Both local and international operators must comply with safety regulations and obtain the necessary permits for helicopter operations. However, international tour operators may have more stringent safety protocols and may have more experience in dealing with emergencies.

Customer support: Local companies may have limited customer support in terms of language and communication, while international tour operators may offer more comprehensive customer support in several languages.

Ultimately, the choice between a local or international helicopter tour operator will depend on personal preferences, budget, and expectations. It is essential to research and compare options before making a decision.

Helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp and surrounding areas

A helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp and surrounding areas is a popular way to experience the beauty of the region without the physical exertion required for trekking. The tour typically includes a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by stops at various scenic locations, including Kalapathar, Everest Base Camp, and the Gokyo Lakes. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas and experience the thrill of flying over remote mountain villages and glaciers. Helicopter tours are typically operated by experienced pilots and specialized tour companies.

Tips and guidelines for a safe and enjoyable Everest Base Camp helicopter trek

Here are some tips and guidelines for a safe and enjoyable Everest Base Camp helicopter trek:

  • Choose a reputable tour operator who has experience in the region and is licensed by the Nepalese government.
  • Make sure you have the necessary permits and visas before embarking on the trek.
  • Acclimatize properly to the high altitude by spending a few days in the region before the helicopter tour.
  • Dress in layers and bring appropriate gear for the weather conditions.
  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Follow the instructions of the pilot and crew during the helicopter flight.
  • Avoid littering and respect the local culture and customs.
  • Have travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuations and other contingencies.
  • Be aware of the environmental impact of helicopter tours and strive to minimize your carbon footprint.
  • Have realistic expectations and enjoy the experience without pushing yourself beyond your limits.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek FAQs⇓

How long does it take to complete the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek?

The duration of the trek can vary depending on the itinerary, but it typically takes around 8-10 days.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the trek?

The maximum altitude reached during the trek is around 5545m at Kalapatthar viewpoint.

How physically demanding is the trek?

The trek involves a significant amount of hiking and climbing at high altitudes, so it is considered to be physically demanding. It is important to be in good physical shape and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

Can non-experienced hikers do the trek?

Non-experienced hikers can complete the trek with proper training and preparation. However, it is important to be aware of the physical demands and to take necessary precautions.

Is it necessary to use a guide or porter during the trek?

While it is not necessary to use a guide or porter during the trek, it is highly recommended for safety and navigation purposes.

How do I get to the starting point of the trek?

The starting point of the trek is typically Lukla, which can be reached by a domestic flight from Kathmandu.

What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

During the trek, accommodation is available in various forms including teahouses, lodges, and camping.

What is the best time to do the trek?

The best time to do the trek is typically between September to November and March to May when the weather is clear and stable.

What should I pack for the trek?

It is important to pack warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, a headlamp, a first aid kit, and other essentials.

What is the cost of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter trek?

The cost of the trek can vary depending on factors such as the itinerary, group size, and the type of accommodation and services used. It generally costs $1200 to USD 2500.

TAGS: Annapurna trek faqs EBCindependentguide EBCtrekdetails EBCtrekguide everest base camp heli tour Everest trek preparation freelanceguideinnepal independentguideinnepal List of Popular treks in nepal Manaslu trekkinginformation Manaslucircuittrek Most popular trek routes Mustangtrekpermit Nepal tour Nepal trekking prayer flag Uppermustangtrek