Trip Fact

Destination

Everest

Duration

11 Days

Difficulty

Moderate to Challenging

Group Size

2-16 Persons

Max altitude

5545m.

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Activities

Trekking / Hiking / Heli

Accommodation

Hotel & Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

Private

Start from

Kathmandu

End at

Kathmandu

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is a perfect blend of Himalayan adventure and comfort. This 11-day journey allows you to experience the thrill of trekking to Everest Base Camp while avoiding the return hike with a spectacular helicopter flight over the Himalayas.

Starting from the vibrant city of Kathmandu, you’ll fly to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. The trek follows a classic trail through Sherpa villages, across hanging suspension bridges, and into the high alpine world of glaciers and towering peaks.

Along the way, visit Namche Bazaar, the bustling mountain town, enjoy a stunning view from Hotel Everest View, and spend nights in cozy mountain lodges. After reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and the famous viewpoint of Kala Patthar (5,555 m), your journey concludes with an epic helicopter ride back to Kathmandu, soaring above the world’s most iconic mountains.

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return highlights

  • Scenic flight to Lukla (or seasonal drive to Manthali) and thrilling airstrip landing
  • Trek through iconic Sherpa villages like Phakding, Namche, and Pangboche
  • Enter Sagarmatha National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Acclimatization hikes to Hotel Everest View & Nangkartsang Peak for stunning vistas
  • Visit Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region
  • Epic mountain views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Makalu & more
  • Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m) — the foot of the world’s tallest peak
  • Sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,555m) — the best close-up view of Mt. Everest
  • Scenic helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Lukla
  • Return helicopter to Kathmandu with time to relax or explore

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return itinerary

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you with a warm welcome and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle.

Later in the day, attend a pre-trek briefing where you’ll meet your guide and receive final instructions about your adventure. Enjoy your first evening in Kathmandu soaking in the charm of this historic city.

Overnight: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Not included

Depending on the season, your Lukla flight may depart from either Kathmandu or Manthali (Ramechhap).

  • Peak Season (Mar–May, Oct–Nov): Early morning drive (5–6 hrs) to Manthali, followed by a 20-minute flight to Lukla.
  • Off-season: 35-minute direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

After landing at Lukla (2,840m), your trekking journey begins. Descend along the Dudh Koshi River, passing mani walls, chortens, and traditional Sherpa villages before reaching Phakding.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Phakding
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s route takes you across multiple suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, through pine forests and charming villages like Monjo and Jorsalle.

Enter Sagarmatha National Park and ascend to Namche Bazaar—the bustling heart of the Khumbu region. En route, catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest from Top Danda.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Namche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is a vital rest day for altitude adaptation. Hike to Hotel Everest View for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and more.
Return to Namche for a relaxed afternoon exploring local markets, museums, bakeries, and coffee shops.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Namche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail contours above the Dudh Koshi River, offering glorious views. Pass through lush forests and villages like Sanasa and Phunki Tenga before a steep ascent to Tengboche.

Visit Tengboche Monastery, the most revered spiritual site in the region, with its serene setting and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Tengboche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Descend through rhododendron forests to Debuche, cross the Imja Khola, and climb to Pangboche, home to the oldest monastery in the Khumbu.
Enjoy lunch in Somare before trekking through arid landscapes to Dingboche, surrounded by peaks like Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and Lhotse.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Dingboche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A second acclimatization day. Hike to Nangkartsang Peak for 360° views of Makalu, Everest, Ama Dablam, and more.
Return to Dingboche and enjoy the rest of the day relaxing in cozy tea houses or browsing local shops.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Dingboche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier, with views of Cholatse and Taboche. Stop at Thukla for lunch, then ascend to the emotional memorials of fallen climbers at Thukla Pass.
The final stretch to Lobuche reveals snow-draped giants like Pumori and Nuptse.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Lobuche
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A milestone day! Trek past glaciers and ice fields to reach Everest Base Camp, standing beneath the shadow of the world’s tallest mountain. Celebrate your achievement before heading back to Gorak Shep.

Overnight: Guesthouse in Gorak Shep
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start early to ascend Kala Patthar for the best sunrise view over Mount Everest. Return to Gorak Shep for breakfast.

Then board a shared helicopter ride back to Lukla (15–20 minutes) and continue by air to Kathmandu (approx. 45 minutes).
Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening with your trekking team.

🚁 Note: Helicopters above 4,500m can only carry 3 passengers at a time. In such cases, a shuttle system (via Pheriche) is used.

Overnight: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 

Your unforgettable Himalayan adventure concludes. Our team will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.
If you’d like to extend your trip with a jungle safari in Chitwan, spiritual exploration in Lumbini, or a cultural tour of Bhutan or Tibet, let us know!

Meals: Breakfast

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • International and domestic airport pick-up and drop-off in Nepal
  • 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a Bed & Breakfast (BB) plan – twin-sharing basis
  • Accommodation in local teahouses during the trek (twin-sharing basis)
  • Local Government Entry Permit (Trek Card)
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit (Everest Permit)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Daily breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) – vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available from the teahouse menu
  • 1 farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a traditional Nepalese restaurant with a cultural dance show, hosted by the Adventure Friendship Team
  • First-aid kit carried by Adventure Friendship team
  • 1 duffel bag provided by Adventure Friendship to carry your trekking luggage
  • Experienced, English-speaking licensed trekking guide
  • Insurance for guide and porter, including emergency evacuation and medical expenses
  • All meals for guide and porter during the trek
  • Guide and porter salary as per industry standards, recommended by tourism associations
  • Porter service for luggage carrying (1 porter per 2 guests, max 20 kg per porter)

What’s Not Included

  • International flight tickets
  • Domestic flight tickets (Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla)
  • Helicopter cost from Gorakshep or Lobuche to Kathmandu (Group sharing basis)
  • Nepal visa fees (payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, drivers, and staff
  • Expenses incurred due to extra days beyond the scheduled itinerary (due to weather, flight delays, etc.)
  • Personal expenses, including drinks, laundry, souvenirs, gear rental, hot showers, WiFi, and electronic charging
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section
  • Travel insurance (must cover both medical and emergency evacuation, with a minimum coverage of USD 100,000)
  • Extra transfer costs for transportation between Kathmandu and Ramechhap (in case of Lukla flight via Ramechhap)

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return cost & dates

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Additional Information

Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return Trekking Gear & Packing List

Clothing:

  • Base layers (thermal tops/bottoms)
  • Fleece jacket or down jacket
  • Waterproof/windproof outer shell
  • Trekking pants and shorts
  • Gloves (lightweight + insulated)
  • Warm hat and sun hat
  • Buff or neck gaiter
  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts

Footwear:

  • Waterproof trekking boots (broken-in)
  • Camp shoes/sandals
  • Wool and synthetic socks

Gear & Equipment:

  • Backpack (35-45L) with rain cover
  • Sleeping bag (rated to -15°C, can be rented in Kathmandu)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Water bottles + purification tablets or filter
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Lightweight towel

Toiletries & Personal Items:

  • Toothbrush, paste, biodegradable soap
  • Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
  • Quick-dry travel towel
  • Basic first-aid kit (band-aids, blister pads, painkillers)
  • Personal medications

Miscellaneous:

  • Power bank & charging cable
  • Passport + photocopies
  • Trekking permits (managed by company)
  • Cash (Nepali Rupees) for personal expenses along the trail

Photos

Everest Base Camp Helicopte Tour
Return to Kathmandu by Helicopter from Everest
Mount Pumori

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp Heli Trek?

Moderate to challenging. It involves 5–7 hours of trekking daily on uneven terrain. The helicopter return makes it less strenuous than the classic round-trip trek.

What is the highest altitude reached on this trek?

The highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,555 m (18,225 ft). Everest Base Camp itself is at 5,364 m (17,598 ft).

 

Is prior trekking experience required?

No previous trekking experience is required, but good physical fitness is essential. Beginners with active lifestyles can complete the trek with proper acclimatization.

Are helicopter flights included in the package?

Yes, a shared helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla and then to Kathmandu is included. Private charter options are available at an additional cost.

What permits do I need?

You’ll need:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
    All permits are arranged by your trekking agency.

What type of accommodation is provided?

  • Kathmandu: 3-star hotel with breakfast
  • Trekking trail: Mountain teahouses/guesthouses with basic amenities and local meals.

What is the best season for EBC and Helicopter Return Trek?

  • Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov) are ideal for clear skies and stable weather.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb) is cold but quiet.
  • Monsoon (Jun–Aug) is not recommended due to rain and flight delays.

Are there altitude-related risks?

Yes. Acclimatization days and gradual ascent help reduce the risk. Guides monitor symptoms of AMS and can arrange helicopter evacuation if needed (insurance required).

Can I rent gear in Kathmandu?

Yes. Sleeping bags, down jackets, poles, and other gear are widely available for rent at affordable rates.

Is Wi-Fi or charging available on the trail?

Yes, most lodges offer Wi-Fi (for a fee) and charging facilities. Bring a power bank and extra batteries.

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