Everest Base Camp Heli Trek
Trip Overview
Everest Base camp Heli Trek is the shortest and luxurious trek to Everest base camp for those who don’t have plenty of time enough to do return trek back to Lukla. The biggest setback of classical Everest Base Camp is that you trek the same trail to Everest Base Camp and have to trek back the same trail unless you take a longer, challenging trail through Cho La pass and Gokyo Valley.
So, if you dream of doing the Everest Base Camp Trek in the shortest time possible, we recommend you to do Everest Heli trek in which you trek to fly to Lukla from Kathmandu, trek to Everest Base camp, and after exploring Everest base camp and Kalapatthar you fly back to Kathmandu directly from Kalapatthar or Everest base camp.
Despite Everest Base Camp Heli Trek is designed to do in the shortest time possible, it does not affect the safety, acclimatization, exploration of natural and cultural aspects on the trek because while trekking to Everest Base Camp you take two acclimatization days to acclimatize well with altitude, you hike through Sherpa villages, enjoy the Himalayan vistas and savor every sort of things you need to experience on Everest Base Camp Trek. At last upon reaching Everest base camp trek and Kalapatthar, you take a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu enjoying the Himalayan views in about one hour’s comfortable chopper instead of the grueling trek back to Lukla.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Our airport representative will welcome you and explain the program further. There are no planned activities for the day, so check into the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2652m/8699ft) Duration: 3 hours
Early morning transfer to the airport for Lukla flight. The flight to Lukla is a lifetime experience in itself. The airfield is at high evaluation and the difference between the two ends of the runway is about an exceptional 60 meters only. Trek to Phakding with an arresting, green landscape with the view of Kusum Kangraru. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m/11283ft) Duration: 6 hours
We follow the Dudh Koshi, ascending through Himalayan pine and cedar forests, to the celebrated village of Namche Bazaar. The village of Namche is a historic trading post where Nepalese and Tibetan traders exchange salt, dried meat and textiles.
Besides being a splendid destination to shop for traditional crafts, Namche remains the central trading post in the Khumbu that attracts Himalayan and lowland merchants. You will spend two days at Namche for acclimatization, visit local markets and spend time with your team. On the hike we capture our first glimpses of Everest and neighboring peaks. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 04: Namche Bazar and Everest View Hotel
This day is especially sectioned for acclimatization. We will hike to Syangboche Airport (3700m), supposed to be the highest airport in the world, then continue climbing to Everest View Hotel for great panoramic views of the Everest, Lhotse, Amadablam, Tawache etc. On the way back, we visit Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 05: Trek to Tengboche (3860m/12660ft) Duration: 5 hours
The uniform and easy trail leads us towards the view of Mount Everest, descending deep into the Dudh Koshi Valley at Pungki Thanka and from this point, it ascends the right flank of the Dudh Koshi valley to Tengboche Monastery (3860m). It is the spiritual center of the Khumbu. The climb is lengthy, but is more than adequately compensated by gorgeous views of Mount Amadablam and on a clear day, views of Mt. Everest and its surrounding peaks. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 06: Trek to Dingboche (4410m/14464ft) Duration: 5 hours
Descend through a beautiful forest, cross the Imja Khola and trek through the village of Pangboche (3900m); perhaps today is the most interesting trekking because you will not lose altitude like on other days and you will enjoy views of Mt. Amadablam, Mt. Lhotse & other peaks; the route continues through pastures to Dingboche, known as the ‘summer valley’. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 07: Dingboche to Nagerjun (5100m/16728ft) and return Duration: 6 hours
This would be your second acclimatization day that requires about 6 hours of trekking to an altitude of 5100m. After breakfast, you ascend Nagerjun (5100m), a hill located on the flanks of the Chhukung valley directly above Dingboche.
The main aim is to climb high and sleep low. The foot path becomes steep at times, resulting in a physically strenuous day. Ascending the hill could take up to 5 hours at altitude. From this altitude there are good views of Lobuche East (6119m), Lobuche West (6145m), Taboche Peak (6367m), Thamserku (6608m), Kangtega (6685m) and Ama Dablam (6856m). On a clear day, you could even see Makalu, the world’s fifth highest mountain, including great views of the Pheriche Valley.
After a short rest, you start the descent back to Dingboche and the walk at altitude takes about 2 hours. After lunch, take a well-deserved rest, as afternoon temperatures could drop rapidly as the sun sets over the mountain tops. You will also spend a second night in Dingboche. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche (4910m/16105ft) Duration: 5 hours
Trek along a broad valley floor to Dughla, passing the Trekkers Aid Post at Pheriche (4240 m). This trek is staffed by western volunteer doctors and supported by the Himalayan Rescue Association, which offers treatment and consultation to trekkers. Continue up the valley, gaining altitude. We come out of the valley to descend to the yak pastures of Lobuche. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 09: Trek to EBC (5364m/17594ft) & back to Gorekshep (5181m/16994ft) Duration: 8 hours
After a short climb through meadows, look down at the Khumbu glacier. Straight ahead is Kalapattar – the best vantage point to view the entire south face of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks. After a couple of hours we will get to Gorekshep, and continue our journey to the Everest base camp. There is not much elevation gain, but there are a lot of ups and downs and, combined with altitude, this can be an exhausting trek – but the journey is worth it. After approximately 3 hrs of hiking, you will arrive at the base camp and enjoy a magnificent view of the Khumbu glacier and icefall, where the Everest expeditions begin. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 10: Hiking to Kalapattar (5545m/18188ft) – Gorekshep – Kathmandu by Helicopter
This is another significant day of the trek. We will begin hiking early in the morning to witness stunning sunrise views from Kala Pathar (5545m). It is the best viewpoint for observing Mount Everest as well as other magnificent Himalayan range. After that, we will walk back to Goraksherp. Finishing our breakfast, we will experience comfy helicopter ride to return back Kathmandu. While soaring above, you will experience idyllic aerial views of the stunning landscape as well as gigantic Himalaya range. Overnight at hotel, breakfast included.
Day 11: Farewell
Finishing our breakfast, we will help you drive to Kathmandu International Airport approximately before 3 hours of the scheduled flight
Breakfast at hotel and approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight, a representative from the Accessible adventure will take you to the airport.
Included
- Ground transports in private vehicle including airport transfers
- Two nights (twin sharing beds) accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek, we provide you attached bathroom with hot shower at Lukla, Phakding and Namche
- One highly experienced, helpful and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
- Round trip flight Kathmandu – Lukla, and Lukla – Kathmandu including departure taxes
- Duffle bag for the trekking
- Down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek, if required
- T-shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate
- First aid medical kit
- Sagarmatha National Park Permits fee
- TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
- Government taxes and office service charge
Excluded
- Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
- Travel insurance
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa
- Cold drinks Inc. coke, water, Fanta etc.
- Snacks and other personal expenses
- Hot shower during the trek except Phakding, Namche and Lukla
- Personal trekking equipment
- Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
Good to Know
Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?
What immunizations will I need?
I am a solo traveler; can I join a group?
Can I book a private trip?
Which hotel do you use in Kathmandu? Can I extend my stay? And how much does it cost?
Can I upgrade my hotel to a luxury hotel in Kathmandu?
What sort of accommodation facilities are available during the trek? And what about showers?
Can you Brief me on meals and water during the trek?
How is Typical Trekking Day like?
Are Internet and Mobile Connectivity available during the trek?
How much time is allotted for acclimatization? What are your safety protocols?
How much spending money do I need for each day on the trek? And are credit cards accepted on the Trail?
Is there a laundry service during the trek?
Can I recharge my electronic gadgets, and what kind of plug, adapter/converter should I use to travel in Nepal?
Can I trek to Everest Base Camp without prior trekking experience?
Is there any alternative way if the flight to/from Lukla is canceled or delayed?
What is the weight limit for the Lukla flight?
Is travel insurance necessary to do the EBC Trek? If so, what type of travel insurance is adequate?
Are your guides qualified to handle a medical emergency?
If I am sick, can I continue the trek after a day's rest?
Are your guides certified by the Government of Nepal?
Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much should I tip?
Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?
Is it necessary to make a down payment to reserve a place on a trek? How to I book a trip?
Can I postpone my trek? If so, how?
Do you accept last-minute bookings?
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Our airport representative will welcome you and explain the program further. There are no planned activities for the day, so check into the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2652m/8699ft) Duration: 3 hours
Early morning transfer to the airport for Lukla flight. The flight to Lukla is a lifetime experience in itself. The airfield is at high evaluation and the difference between the two ends of the runway is about an exceptional 60 meters only. Trek to Phakding with an arresting, green landscape with the view of Kusum Kangraru. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m/11283ft) Duration: 6 hours
We follow the Dudh Koshi, ascending through Himalayan pine and cedar forests, to the celebrated village of Namche Bazaar. The village of Namche is a historic trading post where Nepalese and Tibetan traders exchange salt, dried meat and textiles.
Besides being a splendid destination to shop for traditional crafts, Namche remains the central trading post in the Khumbu that attracts Himalayan and lowland merchants. You will spend two days at Namche for acclimatization, visit local markets and spend time with your team. On the hike we capture our first glimpses of Everest and neighboring peaks. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 04: Namche Bazar and Everest View Hotel
This day is especially sectioned for acclimatization. We will hike to Syangboche Airport (3700m), supposed to be the highest airport in the world, then continue climbing to Everest View Hotel for great panoramic views of the Everest, Lhotse, Amadablam, Tawache etc. On the way back, we visit Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 05: Trek to Tengboche (3860m/12660ft) Duration: 5 hours
The uniform and easy trail leads us towards the view of Mount Everest, descending deep into the Dudh Koshi Valley at Pungki Thanka and from this point, it ascends the right flank of the Dudh Koshi valley to Tengboche Monastery (3860m). It is the spiritual center of the Khumbu. The climb is lengthy, but is more than adequately compensated by gorgeous views of Mount Amadablam and on a clear day, views of Mt. Everest and its surrounding peaks. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 06: Trek to Dingboche (4410m/14464ft) Duration: 5 hours
Descend through a beautiful forest, cross the Imja Khola and trek through the village of Pangboche (3900m); perhaps today is the most interesting trekking because you will not lose altitude like on other days and you will enjoy views of Mt. Amadablam, Mt. Lhotse & other peaks; the route continues through pastures to Dingboche, known as the ‘summer valley’. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 07: Dingboche to Nagerjun (5100m/16728ft) and return Duration: 6 hours
This would be your second acclimatization day that requires about 6 hours of trekking to an altitude of 5100m. After breakfast, you ascend Nagerjun (5100m), a hill located on the flanks of the Chhukung valley directly above Dingboche.
The main aim is to climb high and sleep low. The foot path becomes steep at times, resulting in a physically strenuous day. Ascending the hill could take up to 5 hours at altitude. From this altitude there are good views of Lobuche East (6119m), Lobuche West (6145m), Taboche Peak (6367m), Thamserku (6608m), Kangtega (6685m) and Ama Dablam (6856m). On a clear day, you could even see Makalu, the world’s fifth highest mountain, including great views of the Pheriche Valley.
After a short rest, you start the descent back to Dingboche and the walk at altitude takes about 2 hours. After lunch, take a well-deserved rest, as afternoon temperatures could drop rapidly as the sun sets over the mountain tops. You will also spend a second night in Dingboche. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche (4910m/16105ft) Duration: 5 hours
Trek along a broad valley floor to Dughla, passing the Trekkers Aid Post at Pheriche (4240 m). This trek is staffed by western volunteer doctors and supported by the Himalayan Rescue Association, which offers treatment and consultation to trekkers. Continue up the valley, gaining altitude. We come out of the valley to descend to the yak pastures of Lobuche. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 09: Trek to EBC (5364m/17594ft) & back to Gorekshep (5181m/16994ft) Duration: 8 hours
After a short climb through meadows, look down at the Khumbu glacier. Straight ahead is Kalapattar – the best vantage point to view the entire south face of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks. After a couple of hours we will get to Gorekshep, and continue our journey to the Everest base camp. There is not much elevation gain, but there are a lot of ups and downs and, combined with altitude, this can be an exhausting trek – but the journey is worth it. After approximately 3 hrs of hiking, you will arrive at the base camp and enjoy a magnificent view of the Khumbu glacier and icefall, where the Everest expeditions begin. Overnight at Guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 10: Hiking to Kalapattar (5545m/18188ft) – Gorekshep – Kathmandu by Helicopter
This is another significant day of the trek. We will begin hiking early in the morning to witness stunning sunrise views from Kala Pathar (5545m). It is the best viewpoint for observing Mount Everest as well as other magnificent Himalayan range. After that, we will walk back to Goraksherp. Finishing our breakfast, we will experience comfy helicopter ride to return back Kathmandu. While soaring above, you will experience idyllic aerial views of the stunning landscape as well as gigantic Himalaya range. Overnight at hotel, breakfast included.
Day 11: Farewell
Finishing our breakfast, we will help you drive to Kathmandu International Airport approximately before 3 hours of the scheduled flight
Breakfast at hotel and approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight, a representative from the Accessible adventure will take you to the airport.
Included
- Ground transports in private vehicle including airport transfers
- Two nights (twin sharing beds) accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek, we provide you attached bathroom with hot shower at Lukla, Phakding and Namche
- One highly experienced, helpful and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
- Round trip flight Kathmandu – Lukla, and Lukla – Kathmandu including departure taxes
- Duffle bag for the trekking
- Down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek, if required
- T-shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate
- First aid medical kit
- Sagarmatha National Park Permits fee
- TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
- Government taxes and office service charge
Excluded
- Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
- Travel insurance
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa
- Cold drinks Inc. coke, water, Fanta etc.
- Snacks and other personal expenses
- Hot shower during the trek except Phakding, Namche and Lukla
- Personal trekking equipment
- Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
Good to Know
Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?
What immunizations will I need?
I am a solo traveler; can I join a group?
Can I book a private trip?
Which hotel do you use in Kathmandu? Can I extend my stay? And how much does it cost?
Can I upgrade my hotel to a luxury hotel in Kathmandu?
What sort of accommodation facilities are available during the trek? And what about showers?
Can you Brief me on meals and water during the trek?
How is Typical Trekking Day like?
Are Internet and Mobile Connectivity available during the trek?
How much time is allotted for acclimatization? What are your safety protocols?
How much spending money do I need for each day on the trek? And are credit cards accepted on the Trail?
Is there a laundry service during the trek?
Can I recharge my electronic gadgets, and what kind of plug, adapter/converter should I use to travel in Nepal?
Can I trek to Everest Base Camp without prior trekking experience?
Is there any alternative way if the flight to/from Lukla is canceled or delayed?
What is the weight limit for the Lukla flight?
Is travel insurance necessary to do the EBC Trek? If so, what type of travel insurance is adequate?
Are your guides qualified to handle a medical emergency?
If I am sick, can I continue the trek after a day's rest?
Are your guides certified by the Government of Nepal?
Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much should I tip?
Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?
Is it necessary to make a down payment to reserve a place on a trek? How to I book a trip?
Can I postpone my trek? If so, how?
Do you accept last-minute bookings?