Everest Base Camp Heli Trek
Private Group Journeys

Everest Base Camp Heli Trek

Hike to Everest Base Camp and return by Helicopter

  • duration 13 Days
  • Trekking
  • Culture Tours
  • Moderate
    Moderate

A conventional Everest Base Camp trek takes 14-16 days and traverses 130 km for a round trip. We have designed this itinerary for those who are short on time. The Everest Base Camp Heli Trek cuts short by half the distance yet, keeping its essence intact. Also, it captures the best of two worlds, trekking through land and its charm and a surreal aerial view of villages and mountain ranges. Simply follow the usual trekking trail to the Everest base Camp. But on the return journey, take a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu from Gorakshep. The fascinating part of this Heli Trek is that you enjoy the most stunning aerial views of the Khumbu glacier, Everest, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and many others as the helicopter rises from Gorakshep.

The breathtaking journey for our Everest Base Camp Heli Trek begins with a flight to Lukla, taking us past dense forests and small Sherpa settlements. As we approach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest Base Camp and the center of Sherpa culture, we spend two nights to acclimate. After, the trail ascends through alpine woodlands, rhododendron forests, and along steep ridgelines and river gorges to Gorakshep, where we reach the Everest Base Camp. Next morning we will visit the Kalapatthar(5550m) view point, and then board a helicopter for the flight back to Kathmandu, avoiding the walk to Lukla to catch the flight to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2. In Kathmandu
Day 3. Fly to Lukla-Trek to Phakding
Day 4. Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 5. In Namche Bazaar
Day 6. Trek to Tengboche
Day 7. Trek to Dingboche
Day 8. In Dingboche(Excursion to Nangkartshang hill)
Day 9. Trek to Lobuche
Day 10. Trek to Gorakshep & Everest Base Camp
Day 11. Hike to Kala Patthar-Fly to Kathmandu
Day 12. Free day in Kathmandu.
Day 13. Departure

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
activity Activities Included
Trekking Culture Tours
accommodations Accommodation 3-4* hotels with modern amenities in Kathmandu, tea houses/village lodges during the trek.
meals Meal Only breakfast in Kathmandu with one welcome dinner, while all meals during the trek
seasons Best Seasons Best during the spring and the autumn.
route Route Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding-Namche-Tengboche-Dingboce-Lobuche-Gorakshep-Kathmandu
best Best Months March, April, May, October, November

best Good Months February, September

best Lean Months June, July, August

best Not Recommended Months January, December

Trip Highlights

    • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sights in Kathmandu.
    • Take a spectacular mountain flight to Lukla.
    • Experience the unique Sherpa culture and their generous hospitality
    • Visit the Everest Base Camp at 5364m
    • Experience the breathtaking view of sunrise over the snowcapped peaks from the summit of Kalapatthar at 5644m
    • Enjoy the remarkable views of the Khumbu Glacier.
    • Encounter the breathtaking views of Mt. Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Nuptse (7861m), Pumori (7161m), and surrounding mountains in the Khumbu region.
    • Get close to the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest(8,848m).
    • Take a fascinating helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Kathmandu.

Detailed Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Flying into Kathmandu on a clear day is an unforgettable experience, with the majestic Himalayas in the backdrop. Once you arrive, you will be greeted by our friendly guide who will take you to your hotel. We have not planned any activity on this day, relax in comfort of your hotel or take the chance to explore the neighborhoods on your own. Later in the evening, we will have dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu

MEALS:
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Day 2:

In Kathmandu

Today we will visit some UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Kathmandu Durbar Square is the former palace used by the Kings of Nepal, we will visit the Durbar square area along with various temples and monuments. After the visit, we will drive to Boudhanath stupa, Boudanath stupa is the largest buddhist stupa in Nepal. Circumambulate along with the pilgrims and visit the monasteries around. After lunch we will drive to visit the Pashupatinath temple, the holiest hindu temple in Nepal. Later in the evening, we will have a short discussion regarding the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 3:

Fly to Lukla-Trek to Phakding

This morning we will take a spectacular 30-minute flight to Lukla. The flight to Lukla, in itself is a thrilling adventure because the Tenzing Hillary airport at 2860m is one of the highest situated airports in the world. The flight offers good views of the mountain peaks. We will meet our porters, who will carry our bags at the airport. We will gather our gears and head for Phakding along the Dudh Koshi river. The trail goes through scenic landscape, forests and local villages. We will cross over a suspension bridge and arrive at Phakding. Overnight in Phakding.

All flights to Lukla during the peak trekking season(1st April-30th May & 1st Oct-30th November) will operate from Manthali airport in Ramechhap.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: Lukla at 2860m/Phakding at 2610 m
Duration Duration: Flight 30min/Trek 3hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 4:

Trek to Namchhe Bazaar

From Phakding, the trail passes through tranquil pine and rhododendron forests along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, past picturesque Sherpa settlements, such as Bengkar, Chumao, and Monjo. Upon crossing the Hillary Suspension Bridge, we enter the Sagarmatha National Park , and the first glimpse of Mt. Everest comes into view at Chautara. The trail then embarks on a steep uphill hike to Namche Bazaar, a vibrant mountain town that is also the center of Sherpa life and culture. Here, trekkers can find various shops selling souvenirs, trekking gear, and other necessary items. Cafeterias, banks, hotels, and a bakery also await convenient visits, along with money exchange counters for last-minute shopping before ascending further to the Everest region. Overnight in Namche Bazaaar.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3440m
Duration Duration: 6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 5:

Namche Bazaar(acclimatization day)

Today is a rest day in Namche Bazaar, allowing for acclimatization and altitude adaptation. To make the most of the day we suggest a short hike up to Everest View Hotel past Syangboche airstrip. There is also the option to continue further up to visit the Hillary school and two of the local Sherpa settlements; Khumjung and Kunde. After exploring the local area, you can also visit the Sherpa Culture Private Museum, the Everest Photo Gallery, or stroll around the local market. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3440m
Duration Duration: 3-4hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 6:

Trek to Tengboche

From Namche, we will begin our journey towards Tengboche, a small hamlet well known for the Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. Descending down to the Dudh Koshi Valley at Phungi Tenga, we will pass through rhododendron-laden forests and quaint villages, with spectacular views of some of the region’s highest peaks, such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. The trail winds through the valley, eventually ascending to Tengboche. Overnight in Tengboche.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3860m
Duration Duration: 5hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 7:

Trek to Dingboche

We will descend from Tengboche to the Imja River valley, following the trail to Dingboche, also known as the summer valley. Along the way, we observe yak herders and grazing yaks in meadows. We cross several suspension bridges and hike past small Sherpa villages. The mountain vegetation changes to short bushy alpine vegetation and we come across prayer walls and colorful prayer flags swaying in the Himalayan breeze. Finally, we reach Dingboche, where we get the breathtaking views of the Amadablam, Cholatse, and Nuptse. Overnight in Dingboche.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4410m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 8:

Excursion to Nangkartstang hill

Today is a day dedicated to acclimatization as we continue our journey. Our destination for today is the majestic Nagarjuna (Nangkartshang) Hill, towering at a height of 5073m. Nangkartshang hill point provides stupendous view of the Imja Valley and the magnificent peaks of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Lobuche. This will help us to adapt to the high-altitude and prepare ourselves for the upcoming challenges that lie ahead. Overnight in Dingboche.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: Nangkartshang hill at 5073m
Duration Duration: 3-4hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 9:

Trek to Lobuche

We will set off from Dingboche and head towards Lobuche, a small Sherpa settlement nestled against the backdrop of the majestic Lobuche Peaks. It is an uphill climb with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, and eventually, we hike along the Khumbu Glacier to Thukla. At Thukla, we will come across a memorial yard of those Sherpas and climbers who lost their lives in their pursuit to conquer the mighty Mt. Everest. Along the way, , we will witness a remarkable transformation in the terrain, transitioning from lush forests to sparse alpine shrubs, with the towering peaks of Nuptse and Pumori standing tall on either side. Overnight in Lobuche.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4940 m
Duration Duration: 5hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 10:

Trek to Gorakshep-Hike to Everest Base Camp

Today is one of the most anticipated days of the trek, as we make our way to Gorakshep, the last human settlement before reaching Everest Base Camp. The first part of the journey involves a flat walk that gradually turns into an uphill hike, past rock fields and glaciers until we reach Gorakshep, where we will have our lunch. After lunch, we will hike alongside the Khumbu glacier moraine towards Everest Base Camp. The Everest Base Camp offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape and the snow-covered peaks. After enjoying the beautiful of the, we will then make our way back to Gorakshep for the night. Overnight in Gorakshep.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: Everest Base Camp at 5364m/Gorakshep at 5140m
Duration Duration: 7-8 hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 11:

Hike to Kalapatthar-Fly to Kathmandu

We will wake up early before sunrise and hike to Kala Patthar, one of the best vantage points for the best panoramic views of Everest, Nuptse, and the entire Everest range. Catch the sight of the enchanting golden rays of the sun falling upon the mighty peak and enjoy the moment, and then we shall hike back to Gorakshep for breakfast. After breakfast, we will board on a helicopter and fly back to Kathmandu with everlasting memories. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Duration Duration: 1hr
Day 12:

Free day in Kathmandu

We have set aside this day as a free day, which you can spend as you please. You might wish to go souvenir shopping for your loved ones or, if you prefer, you can request a sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley to witness its unique culture and history. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Day 13:

Departure

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

MEALS:
Breakfast

Cost Information

The cost is based on no. of participants to offer the lowest possible cost.

Included

    • All airport & hotel transfers by private vehicle.
    • Accommodation in 3-4* category hotels in Kathmandu and a local village lodge/tea house during the trek.
    • Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu, while all meals are included during the trek.
    • One welcome or farewell dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu
    • Sightseeing as per itinerary with entrance fees.
    • English-speaking local trekking guide, along with a porter(1 porter for every two-member).
    • One-way domestic flight to Lukla.
    • Return flight from Gorakshep to Kathmandu in a helicopter.
    • Necessary paperwork and permits (TIMS/National Park fee/Rural Municipal fee).

Not included

    • Nepal Visa fee.
    • International flights.
    • Lunch and dinner not included in Kathmandu.
    • Expenses of personal nature: tips, laundry, telephone, bar, beverages, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, etc.
    • Hot shower during the trek.
    • Rescue & travel medical insurance.
    • Trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, unforeseen circumstances, or early return from the trek.
    • Anything not mentioned in the included section.

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
activity Activities Included
Trekking Culture Tours
accommodations Accommodation 3-4* hotels with modern amenities in Kathmandu, tea houses/village lodges during the trek.
meals Meals Only breakfast in Kathmandu with one welcome dinner, while all meals during the trek
route Route Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding-Namche-Tengboche-Dingboce-Lobuche-Gorakshep-Kathmandu
group_size Max Group Size maximum of 4 pax
seasons Best Seasons Best during the spring and the autumn.
best Best Months March, April, May, October, November

best Good Months February, September

best Lean Months June, July, August

best Not Recommended Months January, December

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Everest Base Camp Heli Trek