EBC Trek with Heli Return - 12 days

Things to Know
  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Altitude 5,555 m/18,225 ft
  • Trip Type Trekking/Hiking
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time Mar-May, Sep-Nov
What You’ll Do
  • Embark on the adventurous trek to Everest Base Camp.
  • Experience the thrilling combination of a trek and an opulent helicopter tour over the mountains between Gorakshep and Lukla.
  • Get to know Namche Bazaar, the entrance to Mount Everest.
  • Endure the climate, and take in the scenery of the Himalayas.
  • Witness the beauty of Kalapatthar, Tengboche, and many Sherpa Villages in between.
  • Tour some of the old Buddhist monasteries in the Everest Khumbu region.
  • Climb Kala Patthar (at a height of 5545 meters)
  • Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture, and take delight in the hospitality.
  • Take in the breathtaking panorama of the Khumbu glacier and icefall.

The Everest region (Khumbu), located in Nepal's Himalayan region, is well-known for its stunning landscape and the warmhearted nature of its Sherpa residents. Since the climb to Everest Base Camp is a visual treat for the eyes and includes the striking mountain views, it is one of the most admired tourist destinations to date. Technical expertise is required for High Pass, but if you are in good shape and have adaptability, you will be fine. The journey is exhilarating and well worth your patience. During the walk, you will see some of the world's tallest mountains.

The helicopter tour trip from Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, is the main lure of this journey. You are going to have an enjoyable excursion because the distance is short enough for you to trek to EBC and take a helicopter to return. The journey is ideally suited for those who desire an extremely thrilling and adventurous vacation but lack an abundance of time to devote on it. You have the opportunity to enjoy some of your limited vacation time in Nepal's majestic Himalayan region. The journey is enjoyable as well as less time-consuming.

The 12-day journey to the EBC generally starts in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The following day, we arrive in Lukla and begin our climb from there. As a result of the helicopter being rented from Gorak Shep, you will experience the aerial view on the flight back to Lukla. The other component includes a helicopter tour over the magnificent Gokyo Lake, a well-known trekking location for climbers passing through the country's Everest region. Talking about the exception, the journey starts from Ramechhap/Manthali which is at a distance of 5/6 hours from the capital. This route is followed during the month of March, April, May, October, and November. And the rest itinerary will remain as it is.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal (1400 m)

Day 02: Head to Lukla from Kathmandu (2800m/9,184ft) or drive to Manthali/Ramechhap (474 m) and take 20 minutes flight to Lukla- Trek to Phakding (2652m/8700ft)

Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar from Phakding(3440m/11283ft)

Day 04: A day in Namche Bazaar (3440m/11283ft)

Day 05: A Trek to Tengbochefrom Namche (3860m)

Day 06: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410 m)

Day 07: Spend a day in Dingboche for acclimatization.

Day 08: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4950m)

Day 09: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5160m). Trek to EBC (5,364m) and return to Gorakshep.

Day 10: Trek from Gorak Shep to Kalapathar (5555m) & return to Lukla by Helicopter

Day 11: Flight, back to Kathmandu or Manthali from Lukla.

Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

  • Altitude1400m
  • AccommodationHotel

Our team will receive you at the airport on your arrival day. Using a private four-wheeler, we'll escort you to the hotel and help you settle in. You can spend the remaining day exploring Thamel. In the late evening, there we'll be a welcome dinner.

  • Altitude2845m
  • AccommodationTeahouse

Manthali to Lukla Flight: (March, April, May, October, and November)
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight: (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December)
Duration: 35 mins flight from Kathmandu, 5-6 hrs drive & 20 mins flights from Manthali, & 3-4 hrs trek

During non-peak seasons such as January, February, June, July, August, September and December day 02 of this tour features a direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

However, the peak season calls for the drive to Manthali from Kathmandu and a 20 minutes flight to Lukla. The drive takes about 5 to 6 hours. And the option has to be implemented during the season due to air traffic expansion. As soon as you continue the journey to the naturally rich Khumbu district, you will feel blessed. In contrast to the city, Nepal's eastern region offers you the pristine and breathtakingly gorgeous Khumbu area. Your eyes are treated to breathtaking mountain vistas, verdant hills, and raging rivers before you even get at Lukla.

As soon as you arrive at Lukla Airport, our hiking guide will give you instructions for your first trekking expedition in eastern Nepal. After descending to a location called Chaurikharka and then ascending to the town of Phakding, the trek officially begins. Acclimatization is really important for the trek ahead. The trail will follow Dudhkoshi River throughout. Therefore, the minimal hike will be undertaken with the 2800 m above sea level in mind. It will get your body ready for forthcoming hikes and high-altitude experiences.

You'll spend Overnight at a Guesthouse

  • Altitude3440m
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • Time5-6 hours

A comforting breakfast will help you get your day started. We next proceed on our trip toward the settlement of Benkar. You will undoubtedly be amazed by the panoramic vista of Mount Thamserku there. The trekkers must climb an elevated suspension bridge before they can cross the milky white Dudh Koshi River.

The town of Jorsale is the following stop, followed by Monjo, the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. In order to get ready for Namche Bazaar, you must have your hiking permits inspected. Before arriving in Namche Bazaar, you can take in the picturesque views of the snow-covered peak from Chautara.

You will arrive in Namche Bazaar, a bustling city in the shape of a crescent. We’ll rest overnight at Namche.

 

  • Altitude3440m
  • AccommodationTeahouse

The day will be all about acclimatization and adjustment. It can be also termed as Saving for a rainy day because the following days will be all about higher elevations. You will be the part of witnessing the overwhelming view of the mighty mountains like Everest, Thamserku, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, etc. Namche Bazaar is a bustling city and a hub where we can shop some souvenirs and trekking gears. Also, this can be a great place to explore Sherpa culture. Conversations with the local people is always rewarding. We can hover around the highest airport of Nepal i.e.Syanboche. This can be a good practice for our upcoming day. On the other hand, we can sit at the world’s highest hotel i.e Everest View Hotel. The trekkers always admire the beauty of several mighty mountains from here. We will get down and enjoy our stay at Namche.

  • Altitude3860m
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • Time5-6 hours

On this day, we will depart from Namche Bazaar. After spending some time on the summit, we descend to the Dudh Koshi River at Phungi Thenga. We will climb an exhausting route up to Tengboche after crossing the bridge and the trail is rough.

During the hike, we will pass by Buddhist monuments and mountains including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse. We arrive at Tengboche after a little stroll along the picturesque path through the rhododendron bushes. In Tengboche, we visit the Tengboche monastery and observe Lamas performing a prayer ceremony either in the morning or evening.

  • Altitude4410m
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • Time5-6 hours

The day offers you trips to numerous Himalayan tiny towns. As you walk through the villages, you will get a chance to observe the locals' way of life. As we make our way down through the lush rhododendron trees, the adventure will officially begin. Once you've passed the descent, the ascent continues in that direction. You can see the Birch, Conifer, and Rhododendron trees as well as the lovely Khumbila Khola valley before we reach the summit. You will be greeted by mountains like Mt. Taboche, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Cholatse, and others in this landscape. Before moving downhill to Debuche at Pangboche, we must pass the Pangboche path and the Imja Khola. The Imja Valley, Lobuche River, and Pangboche Monastery are all the next locations accessible after further walking. The final climb of the day is to Dingboche. The place will give you a completely different vibe as the landscape here has small shrubs and no leaves. Dingboche is the destination of today's final ascent. Due to the little shrubs and lack of leaves in the landscape, the location will offer you an entirely different vibe.A well-known summer town in Dingboche where you will find several yaks wandering around the muddy cliffs. The town is quite small, and the farms nearby contain barley, potatoes, and buckwheat. The fields' stone fences shield the crops from breeze and beasts. From here, Lhotse, Amadablam, and Taboche look to be remarkably beautiful.

Here the day comes to a conclusion, and we'll rest at Dingboche.

  • Altitude5083m
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • Time3-4 hours

The second phase of acclimatization will be at Dingboche. You will enjoy a lovely hike to Nangkartsangpeak on this day. The hike will help your body acclimatize so that altitude sickness can be prevented. The stunning views of the Himalayas will follow you. The peak of the hill is a renowned tourist spot. Ama Dablam (6,812m/22,349ft) looks stunning from the peak. After the 3/4 hour of acclimatization hike, we'll return to Dingboche and spend the rest of the day.

  • Altitude4,930m
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • Time5-6 hours

We begin the day with a trek, and the Himalayas will surround us the entire time. We move past the campsite on the first Everest Expedition. Mt. Pumori will stick around with us as we continue walking till the route dips and twists. The stunning view of the mountains will make you fall in love. This area contains a river. It is passed by as we ascend to Duglha/Thukla city. There are prayer flags flying all across the valley in the town of Dughla. We are travelling from the metropolis to Lobuche.

This term for the moraine is well-known. Look it up! A route that leads to a glacial till, or Khumbu moraine, and stone memorials are located atop a ridge called ChukpiLhara.The vibrant prayer flags enhance the grandeur offered by the snow-capped summits.HimalMahalangur, Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori, etc. are all featured in the picturesque vista. The view also features Mt. Nuptse. We will eventually arrive in Lobuche, a tiny Sherpa village at the base of the mountain. Stay the night at Lobuche.

 

  • Altitude5364m
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • Time6-7 hours

The journey to Everest Base Camp on foot. Early in the morning is when the trek starts. We move to Gorak Shep. The Gorak Shep trek offers vistas of the Khumbu Glacier. At a distance, you will also see the Khumbu Icefall (5,486m). The route slowly rises and falls. Even when we get to Gorak Shep, situations get tougher. When we reach there, we'll take a short break because climbing up and down the large rock is exhausting.

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. You are at the base of the tallest mountain in the world, which you might find hard to grasp. It is fair to feel overwhelmed emotions right now. After all, the EBC journey is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. At the EBC, you will find yourself surrounded by high snow-capped mountains all around. As you enjoy the scenery, you might feel overwhelmed with happiness. After enjoying the views to the heart’s content and taking tons of pictures, you will return to Gorakshep and rest. 

  • Altitude5555m
  • AccommodationTeahouse
  • Time4-5 hrs trek & 15-20 mins flight

Today's hike will be accompanied by an icy breeze. On our climb, we'll reach Kala Patthar, popularly known as Black Rock. In terms of physical effort, the climb to Kalapatthar is exceedingly challenging. 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.

Helicopter transportation will be used to return from Gorak Shep to Lukla. It will take 15 to 20 minutes and the flight will be on sharing basis. Every minute you spend up in the air will be worth your sweat and tough trek. Along with the clouds and the birds, you'll be hovering over the stunning mountains. Every minute of your trip will be recalled, including the trails you followed, the glacial rivers, the hills, the hilltops, and many more.

  • Altitude2850m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time30 min

Today we will fly back to Kathmandu or Manthali. If the flight taken is to Manthali, we will be driving back to Kathmandu on the same day. Otherwise, 30 minutes flight from Lukla to Kathmandu will be taken.

Throughout the journey, the lovely sight of hills and valleys will be an amusement to your eyes. You will be delivered to your hotel room by our airport representative. In your cosy room, you may unwind and sleep. After all, you have just returned from an 11-day, extremely strenuous journey. Alternatively, you can browse the Thamel area's local gift shops. You can pack your bags at the hotel. It's finally here! This is your final night in Nepal. So, You will be served a farewell dinner in a fine restaurant.

 

    Some popular destinations are open for early visits. You are now prepared to travel back to Tribhuvan International Airport with our agent in order to catch your flight out. We are convinced that the trek was enjoyable and pleasant for you. The land of the Himalayas will always welcome you and hope to see you again in Nepal soon.

     

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    Trip Map
    EBC Trek with Heli Return - 12 days map
    Useful Info

    Accommodation and Meals

    The accommodation and meals during the Everest base camp trekking are simple. You stay overnight in lodges along the way that offer twin shared rooms and a common washroom. For solo trekkers, we book single rooms (on request) that can be a little pricey. The rooms are small with clean bedding, good enough to spend the nights. You can carry a sleeping bag for more comfort.

    The Everest base camp trek package cost includes three meals a day in the mountains. You get breakfast, lunch & dinner. The menu has a good variety of options, so you will not have a hard time finding food that suits your taste. Dal bhat is the best meal if we see nutritional values, cost, freshness, and taste. Other than this, there are many Nepali, Tibetan, and Continental items available.

    Note: You will have to focus on more fluid consumption because you need to stay hydrated.

    Altitude Sickness

    Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness) is inevitable during the trek in Nepal. You will be spending many days above 3,000 meters and go above 5,000 meters multiple times too. What makes three passes trekking safe with us is our itinerary. We have a perfect balance of elevation rise and sleeping low with ample acclimatization days. Likewise, our experienced and trained mountain guide will keep an eye on your health while trekking. We use an oximeter and other devices to monitor your blood sugar level. The group will be equipped with all the necessary medicines and first aid kits to provide an immediate response in case of any medical emergency.

    In case, the trekker gets altitude sickness symptoms such as vomiting, headache, nausea, difficulty in breathing, insomnia etc., the mountain guide takes the necessary actions to subside the symptoms before gaining any further altitude.

    Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is very important for Everest base camp trekking. Because of the underlying risks of altitude sickness and other unseen events, we need travel insurance as a backup to provide instant medical rescue to our guests if needed. Travel insurance is only for extra safety and the chances we use it is very low. We need emergency air evacuation (up to 6,000 meters) and medical bills in your travel insurance.

    Best Season

    The spring and autumn seasons are the best time to hike to Everest base camp. These two are the trekking seasons in Nepal and carry the most suitable weather for any Himalayan excursion. Spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November) have stable weather and mild climate conditions. There is no rainfall or snowfall to do any kind of delays.

    The mountain panoramas are crystal clear, and the bright & breezy days make everything magical. Likewise, the beginning of these two seasons also decorates the trails with seasonal flowers and colourful leaves. The beauty of the Khumbu region is on another level if you trek in spring & autumn.

    Electricity and Water

    A Nepali telecommunication company called Ncell has a network up to Everest base camp. So, you can get their sim and use cellular data throughout the trek. It is also an economic option and also lets you use the internet while walking.

    Do know that the network might not be stable all the time, and there are blind areas where you may not get any signal. Wifi is available in some villages. You can use it by paying a few extra bucks. To charge your devices, lodges offer separate charging stations. It cost you some money though. Carry spare batteries and a power bank for more convenience. Likewise, there is only one ATM in the Khumbu region which is in Namche Bazaar. You have the last chance to withdraw any money in Namche Bazaar.

    Drinking water, a vital element of the journey requires mindful consideration. To maintain hydration levels and prevent altitude sickness, a daily fluid intake of 3 to 4 Liters is recommended. This includes tea, soup, and plain water. Trekkers can purchase bottled water from mountain shops or utilize water-purifying tablets. Given that tap water in the mountains is unsuitable for direct consumption, water-purifying tablets or pumps ensure safe drinking water. Opting for purifying tablets minimizes complications and environmental pollution compared to bottled water. Bottled water prices vary by location but generally cost around NRs 150 Per Liter

    Lukla Flight Information 

    Due to air traffic expansion, the flight to Lukla is managed from Ramechhap/ Manthali. The months include March, April, May, October, and November. The Everest region trek may be affected by bad weather conditions; it can be clearly said that the flight to Lukla may get cancelled due to runway problems, air traffic problems, and bad weather. The trekkers are requested to manage two/ three days extra so that the cancelled day can be covered up.

    Gears and Equipment

    • Sleeping Bag, Trekking shoes (Water-Proof), Warm socks and down jacket, Water Proof trousers and jacket, Lipbalm and shades, Electronic gadgets(your choice), Earplugs, Warm high-necks, gloves, Scarf, Towels, First Aid Kit, Lip Balm, Sunscreen and lotion, Protein bars, Re-usable water bottles and purifier tablets, Head Lamps, Power Bank / Charger

     

    FAQs

    • You will need the following documents:

      • Citizenship certificate(photocopy) for Nepali Citizens
      • Certificate of Origin for International Citizens
      • 2 pp sized photos
      • A copy of the International Flight Ticket
      • A copy of the travel insurance policy

    • A guide is there to assist you in going forward and making alternative plans and arrangements when unanticipated occurrences happen.Our hiking leaders are experts in this field. Regarding the trip, you will have the most amazing trek experience with our leaders. There is no need to hire an extra guide.

    • The ideal times to trek the Everest Base Camp with Heli Return are in the spring (March to early June) and the autumn (Mid-September to November). The trek is possible any time of the year and we can customize it as per your preference. But we normally advise avoiding the rainy months of July and August and undertaking this walk during the favoured times of the year. The weather in the mountains can be slightly chilly in January and February. However, you can be well prepared with gears and necessities if you want less crowd on the trail during winter.

       

    • It is very difficult to predict the weather in the Everest region. The best idea is to be prepared for every rainy, snowy, sunny or foggy day. The temperature may range from 25 degrees to -20 degrees. It differs from season to season. We can’t predict what the Himalayas have to offer. We may have to postpone our plan because of the weather sometimes. Winter and monsoon may be extremely challenging; thus spring and autumn are the best seasons for this trek.

    • You can easily obtain your visa for Nepal upon arrival after paying the visa fees at different counters in airport. You can carry USD for visa fees and the fees vary according to the days for which you will be staying. The cost is USD 30 for a 15-day tourist visa, including numerous entries, or USD 50 and USD 125 for a 30-day or 90-day tourist visa.

    • Our airport agent will pick you up and transfer safely to your hotel.

    • Credit cards may not be the best option as it includes transaction cost. You can carry 20-30USD per day which will be enough. This is for water, souvenir shopping and some extra.

    • A certain percentage of deposit must be made at the time of booking so that your itinerary is secured. The rest amount can be paid upon arrival or before arriving.

    • Trekking demands your body to be capable of handling inconsistent mountainous terrain while holding a backpack. Long-distance treks, bicycle riding, running, and uphill hiking are all effective forms of exercise. Before going on a trek, you should exercise for not less than an hour, four to five times per week.

    • Your daypack plus duffel bag are counted in the 15 kg (33 lb) luggage restriction for the Lukla flight. You may be charged an extra amount per kilogram if your daypack exceeds more than the permitted load. We advise you to pack no more than 15 kilograms.

    • Natural spring or tap water can be found along the trek and in guesthouses but must be treated. To save money, you can also carry a purification tablet or reusable bottle with built-in filtration so that the water from local taps can be filled and filtered for drinking. It is recommended to buy boiled water from the teahouse to ensure safe drinking water as an alternative. You need to carry a water bottle that can carry both hot and cold water.

    • Our tour guides undergo thorough training and possess first aid certification. Our guides will monitor your condition and level of oxygen using an oximeter during the trip. Through the guides, our main office continually receives information on your health and whereabouts. If an emergency occurs you must evacuate the patient by either land, or at times of a life-threatening emergency, by rescue helicopter.

    • Anti-allergic and typhoid vaccines are also recommended but not compulsory. You need to have your whole body check up and know blood group. This information will help us hep you during emergency situations.

    Price fromUS$1600US$1950(per person)
    We Offer Group Discount Price
      
    1 - 4 paxUS$1700
    5 - 12 paxUS$1650
    13 - 20 paxUS$1600
    US$1700

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