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Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return

Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return

Overview And Highlights

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek is a unique and exhilarating trekking experience that combines hiking to Everest Base Camp with a scenic helicopter flight. It offers a convenient and time-saving alternative to the traditional trekking route, allowing you to witness the grandeur of the Everest region in a shorter duration.

The journey typically begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small airstrip in the Everest region. From Lukla, you embark on a trek through picturesque Sherpa villages, lush valleys, and rugged mountain trails, gradually ascending towards Everest Base Camp. Along the way, you'll pass through iconic landmarks like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep.

Once you reach Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), you'll have the opportunity to experience stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest. It's a momentous achievement to stand at the base camp where mountaineers start their ascent to the world's highest peak.

After spending some time at Everest Base Camp, the helicopter flight becomes the highlight of the trek. A helicopter will pick you up from Gorak Shep or a nearby location and take you on an awe-inspiring aerial tour of the Everest region. This flight allows you to witness panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, among others. It's a remarkable way to admire the Himalayas from a unique perspective.

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek is popular among those who have limited time or prefer a more comfortable trekking experience. It eliminates the need for an arduous return journey on foot and provides an efficient way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Everest region.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Everest Base Camp trek is considered to be moderately difficult. While it does not require technical climbing skills or equipment, it still poses several challenges due to the high altitude and rugged terrain.

The trek involves hiking in the Himalayas, with the starting point typically at Lukla, located at an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). From there, trekkers gradually ascend to Everest Base Camp, situated at an elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).

The main difficulties encountered during the Everest Base Camp trek include:

High altitude: Altitude sickness is a significant concern as you climb higher. It's crucial to acclimatize properly by ascending gradually and allowing your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels.

Long duration: The trek to Everest Base Camp usually takes around 12-14 days, covering a distance of approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) round trip. It requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina to hike for several hours each day.

Challenging terrain: The trail consists of steep ascents, descents, and rocky paths. You may encounter narrow, uneven trails, suspension bridges, and occasional exposure to heights. Trekking poles and sturdy footwear are recommended to navigate the terrain.

Weather conditions: The weather in the Everest region can be unpredictable and harsh, particularly at higher altitudes. Trekkers should be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, and potentially challenging weather conditions.

Despite these challenges, thousands of trekkers complete the Everest Base Camp trek every year. Adequate preparation, physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and following the guidance of experienced guides and porters can greatly enhance your chances of a successful and enjoyable trek.

Food and Accommodation in Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you to the base camp of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. When it comes to food and accommodation during the trek, here's what you can expect:

Food:

Tea Houses: Along the trail, you will find tea houses or lodges at regular intervals. These tea houses provide meals and snacks to trekkers. The food options are typically a combination of Nepali and Western dishes. You can expect items like dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), noodles, pasta, momos (dumplings), soups, pancakes, eggs, and a variety of snacks. The food is generally hearty and filling to provide energy for the trek.

Menu options: Most tea houses have a menu with a variety of options, but do keep in mind that the availability of certain items may be limited or seasonal due to the remoteness of the region. As you gain altitude, the options might become more limited, and the prices may increase due to the increased difficulty of transportation.

Safe drinking water: It is essential to stay hydrated during the trek. While tap water is not considered safe for drinking, you can buy bottled water or use water purification tablets or filters to treat the water from local sources. This helps reduce plastic waste generated from bottled water.

Accommodation:

Tea Houses: Along the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will find tea houses or lodges for accommodation. These tea houses provide basic lodging facilities, such as private or shared rooms with beds, blankets, and pillows. The rooms are usually simple, and you may need to bring your sleeping bag or rent one at the tea houses.

Shared facilities: Tea houses have shared bathrooms and toilets, which may not always have running water. Hot showers are usually available for an additional cost, and in some cases, they may be free if you dine at the tea house.

Availability and reservations: During the peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), the tea houses along the trail can get crowded. It is advisable to make reservations, especially during these busy periods, to ensure you have a place to stay. Your trekking agency or guide can help you with the arrangements.

It's worth noting that the facilities and services in the Everest region have been continuously improving, but they are still relatively basic due to the remote location. It's always a good idea to be prepared and carry essential items like warm clothing, a sleeping bag, and any specific snacks or medicines you might need during the trek.

Is it safe to use a helicopter during the  Everest Base Camp Trek?

Helicopter flights to Everest Base Camp are generally considered safe, provided that certain conditions are met. It's crucial to choose a reputable and experienced helicopter operator that follows strict safety protocols. Ensure that the pilot has the necessary qualifications, experience in mountain flying, and knowledge of the specific challenges posed by the Everest region.

Weather conditions in the Everest region can be unpredictable and severe, with strong winds, low visibility, and rapidly changing weather patterns. Flight operations are highly dependent on favorable weather conditions. Operators will often cancel or postpone flights if weather conditions are deemed unsafe. It's essential to respect these decisions and not attempt to fly in adverse weather.

Altitude is another factor to consider. Everest Base Camp is situated at an elevation of around 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). Flying at high altitudes poses certain risks, including the potential for altitude sickness. It's advisable to acclimatize properly before embarking on a helicopter flight to Everest Base Camp and follow any guidelines provided by the helicopter operator.

While helicopter flights are 100% safe, it's important to remember that aviation, particularly in mountainous and remote areas, carries inherent risks. Stay informed, choose a reputable operator, and prioritize your safety at all times.

How to prevent altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp Trek? 

Preventing altitude sickness at Everest Base Camp, which sits at an elevation of approximately 5,380 meters (17,600 feet), requires careful planning and acclimatization. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of altitude sickness:

Gradual ascent: It is crucial to allow your body enough time to adjust to the high altitude. Ascend gradually, following a well-planned itinerary that includes several rest days at intermediate elevations. This allows your body to adapt to the decreasing oxygen levels.

Physical fitness: Before your Everest Base Camp trek, it is beneficial to engage in regular physical exercise to improve your cardiovascular fitness. Stamina and endurance training can help prepare your body for the physical demands of high-altitude trekking.

Hydration: Stay hydrated throughout your journey. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to keep your body well-hydrated. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Balanced diet: Maintain a nutritious and balanced diet during your trek. Include foods rich in carbohydrates for energy, as well as fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals. Adequate nutrition helps support your body's adaptation to high altitudes.

Medications: Consult with a healthcare professional before your trek to discuss the possibility of using medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox). This medication can help prevent altitude sickness by stimulating breathing and assisting with acclimatization. However, it should be used under medical guidance.

Slow and steady pace: During your trek, maintain a slow and steady pace to conserve energy and reduce strain on your body. Avoid overexertion, as it can increase the risk of altitude-related issues.

Listen to your body: Pay attention to any symptoms of altitude sickness, which may include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, descend to a lower altitude and rest until you feel better. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical assistance.

Altitude acclimatization days: Take scheduled rest days at designated acclimatization points along your route. These days are crucial for allowing your body to adapt to the altitude. Use this time to rest, relax, and explore the surroundings without ascending further.

Oxygen supplementation: In severe cases of altitude sickness, supplemental oxygen may be necessary. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical help to assess the need for oxygen therapy.

Remember, altitude sickness can be a serious condition, and it's essential to prioritize your health and safety during your Everest Base Camp trek. Be well-prepared, listen to your body, and follow the guidance of experienced guides and medical professionals.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Nepal Unique Treks staff will receive you at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu and bring you to the hotel.  If you arrive earlier time on the day we have time to discuss our trip. 

Accomodation
3 Star Categories Hotel
Elevation
1345

After Having breakfast we will introduce you to the tour guide. Tour Guide will take you to visit Swayambhunath and people have known popularly as the Monkey Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Hindu Temple Pashupatinath, And live god Kumari In Basantapur Durbar Squire Or,  Patan Durbar Squire on your choice. Our Tour Guide Will help you to explore Our Heritage sites, Local Culture, religions, and people's lifestyle 

Early afternoon returns back to Hotel. Introducing with trekking guide. And the guide will help you to check your trekking gear. if not have enough, and good gear for the trek you have to buy things in Thamel. The guide will help you. 

Food
B
Accomodation
3 Star Categories Hotel
Elevation
1345

Today our Everest Base Camp Trek starts in 5 hrs and is a 144 km drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap Manthali Airport. On the first day of trekking, you will enjoy local villages, beautiful rafting rivers, and landscapes.  you will arrive in Ramechhap. 

As possible early morning flight to Lukla. Enjoy a short mountain flight. within 20/25 m you will arrive in Lukla. Then your trek guide will be meeting with Sherpa (Porter). Our local porter will take 2 clients' bags maximum weight of 22 kg. He will carry your duffel bag, and trek together until when you return back Lukla. 

Take some tea or coffee at Lukla, and enjoy a flight from the Buddha Lodge rooftop. Today you will trek 4/5 hrs to rich Phakding 2610.  The trek will be fantastic you will enjoy with Local Sherpa Village, Buddhist Monastery, Chorten, and mani wall trek via the Thado Koshi River. early evening you will hike around villages and also a 200 M hike up to Phakding Monastery, which will help you to adjust your altitude. Overnight In Phakding Guesthouse. 

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Elevation
2860

Today we walk along the bank of Dudh Koshi River, during the day across many exciting suspension bridges to reach Namche Bazaar. On the way to Namche Bazaar, the trail passes through the Sagarmatha National Park which widely changes the steeply breathtaking view. After entry our trekking permits you will have lunch in Jorsalle village, this village is the last one to have food and tea coffee.

As Namche Bazaar is considered the main gateway to Everest Base Camp and summits, it has developed into a town with luxurious guest houses, Hotels, and urban facilities like restaurants, money exchange services, internet cafes,s and fresh bakeries, Local and top branded trekking gear. You need to walk 6/7 hours to reach Namche Bazaar.

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Elevation
3444

Today you will stay in Namche Bazaar. It’s the place from where we can see the first view of Mt. Everest 8848 m.  From here you can see incredible views of the Himalayas with a stunning sunrise and sunset over the panorama of Khumbu Himalayas. Hike up to Everest View  Hotel,  360  Mountains views from the Hotel Lobby and tea garden.

You love to take a short time for tea or coffee. from there some people continued to visit Khumjung village and Yeti Head Monastery but some people returned to the Hotel. it will depend on your health situation. Descending  Namche to recover your tired body. the afternoon enjoy with Mt Everest historical documentary on coffeeshop.  

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Elevation
3444

The dawn calls for a yummy breakfast and you start your trek towards Tengboche enjoying beautiful views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and a close-up view of Thamserku. Your trek follows the gradual trail with a few ups and downs overlooking the glorious view of the great Himalayas. Along the way, you can spot wildlives like pheasant, musk deer, or a herd of Himalayan Thar. The trail goes gradually down up to Kayangjuma Village.

The path eventually reaches Sansa which is the major trail junction to Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp. The track will then penetrate you through the pine forests and crossing the prayer flags festooned bridge over Dudh Koshi River, we reach Phunki Thenga, a small settlement with a couple of teahouses and a small army post amidst the alpine woods.

 A tongue-twisting lunch at Phunki Thenga will be your fuel for the tough little climb steep up through the pine forests before approaching Tengboche. Tengboche is a great place for close-up views of Ama-Dablam, Nuptse, and Everest and it has the biggest Buddhist Monastery all over in Khumbu Region. Late afternoon, we can visit the monastery and pray for success.

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3860

With mountains as its backdrop, the monastery at Tengboche looks more magnificent in the morning. At this moment, you can take pictures of the monastery with the beautiful Himalayan range of Mt. Kwangde and the scenery around you and start your journey as usual. You choose the upper trail for better views on the way to Pangboche.

You pass through several Buddhist Chortens and Mani walls and small villages. The place where you stop for lunch not only serves delicious food but also allows an unbelievable close-up view of Mt Ama Dablam. In the afternoon, you walk north to Pheriche or take the Eastward trail beneath the towering North face of Mt Ama Dablam.

From here onwards, the walk is fairly moderate as you enter the Imja Valley. The valley gradually unfolds as you approach the confluence of the Lobuche River. You descend into the river and begin the last and steepest climb of the day up to Dingboche Village.

On arrival at Dingboche, you will see a beautiful array of fields enclosed by stone walls to protect barley, buckwheat, and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals. Relax your painful body inside the warm blanket with the melody of Dingboche.

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Elevation
4407

After breakfast Hike up to the viewpoint which is 300 m from the Guesthouse. From the viewpoint of the outstanding view of massif Makalu,  and its surrounding landscapes. Including Mt Amadablam, Khantega, Kwangde, Cholatse, Island Peak, and many more.  Trek back to Dingboche after lunch take a shower and do laundry if needed.  Explore Sherpa village to spend your afternoon. Overnight stay at Guesthouse. 

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Guesthouse
Elevation
4410

Weak up early in the morning, beautiful sun rays come through your windows, Stretch your body by doing some movements and start your day with a climb to Duglha through the Khumbu Khola valley. You will have some tea, coffee, or snacks, or if you are hungry your guide will arrange to have lunch. 

After a 30-minute break in Thukla, we start a trek ascending to Dugla pass 4830 m,  it will take 1 hrs 20 m. Once we reach the top of Dughla Pass, we will see many stupas, Chhorten, and memorial parks come into our sight. These are for all those trekkers and mountaineers who died while attempting to climb Everest.

The place was giving a different vibe, was it good or bad feelings?  Walking around the painful memories of the great mountaineers, we started ascending further to where the trail was leading us. The trail was getting exciting as we were trekking higher. We reached the glacial moraine of Khumbu Glacier.

The walk along the arid terrace with awesome views of mountains, when you approach the yak herder's place called Dusa, the valley begins to narrow and you continue through Phulung Karpo, the campsite of the first successful Everest Expedition in 1953.

Above Phulung Karpo is Chola Lake. As you move on, the majestic view of Mt. Pumori (7138 m/ 23418 ft) comes into your eyesight. As the trail descends and curves, Mt. Pumori disappears from view and gradually you come across a roaring stream.

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
4940

The trekking trail to Gorakshep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. You will trek continue through the pyramid.  Ahead on the trail, you see the crest of the north ridge of Mt. Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. A small climb would take you to Thangma Riju from where you perceive a 360-degree vista of snowy mountains.

Climbing gently up to the top through the torrent of Changri Glacier, You catch your first glimpse of Kalapatthar, a grey-green knoll lower than Mt. Pumori. As you reach Gorakshep, you will find snow-capped mountains looming all around you including the top of the world - Mt. Everest view. You almost certainly will have worn out by now so you take some rest have your lunch and get on the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once-vast Gorakshep Valley.

Continuing straight ahead, you come through the Indian army mountaineers' memorials. Only upon reaching the Mt. Everest Base Camp, you will be thankful for the Everest climbers who daringly stepped the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall.

Mountaineers' tents stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings, especially in the spring. Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Khumbuste, and Mt.Pumori are the mountains you can view from the Base camp. Everest is not visible from where you stand. You have to ascend more till Kalapatthar to snap the beauty of Mt Everest. Return to Gorakshep overnight.

Food
B, L, D
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
5180

Today is the highest point of your trek. Stretch you're your legs early in the morning to catch the remarkable views from Kalapatthar with the first light of day shining on Mount Everest. However, you need to get prepared for an early morning 4 am dark and cold temperature (-10 to -14 C) departure beforehand. Further, there is always the potential for a chill wind which is quite common.

Familiar peaks such as Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbutse, and Mt. Changtse tower to the East even as Everest begins to reveal itself emerging between the west shoulder crest and Mt. Nuptse. During the ascent to Kala Patthar, you can pause to catch your breath at several marvelous viewpoints to snap pictures.

Ascending for several hours, you reach Kalapatthar. From this juncture, you move quickly to climb the rocky outcrop near the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags.

As you come near the top, you sit on the Kalapatthar where rocks your eyes taking the unbelievable Himalayan landscape, traveling from one mighty massif to another. Liberate as many pictures as you can and take the view with your mind's eye to the last natural life.

On being back to Gorakshep, you have breakfast and wait for other members to return. Rest your fatigue of acclimatization reflecting the erasable beauties of the Himalayas.

After Breakfast 3 3-hour trek to Lobuche Village Then your guide will manage the helicopter to return to Kathmandu from Lobuche, Heli can carry only 3 people with your bag pack, if there are more than 3 members they will return from Pheriche, and from Pheriche to Kathmandu via Lukla Airport they can take 5 people with the trekking bag.

IMPORTANT NOTICE!

Helicopters in the mountains are always busy because many people are suffering from mountain sickness so helicopters will give priority to rescue after that they will give time for Sightseeing and transfer to Kathmandu. Sometimes suddenly we have to Wait for a few hrs the normal schedule. Sometimes it makes delay by bad weather.

In Kathmandu airport, Nepal Unique Treks staff or your guide will transfer to the Hotel in Thamel.

You have free time to do laundry, shopping, and Massage to kill trekking pain.

In the evening, you will be invited by Nepal Unique Treks for a farewell dinner it will be a fantastic festivity together with typical Nepali sets (Thali) and a cultural program.

You can share your experiences there with us and suggest to us the best way to serve other Clients as well the next time. We will congratulate you on completing your trek to Everest Base Camp hosted by Nepal Unique Treks with a certificate. You will be transferred to your hotel for the last night in Nepal.

Including Breakfast, Gorakshep to Kathmandu by Helicopter, Pickup from the Airport to the hotel by tourist vehicle,

Food
L, D
Accomodation
3 Star Categories Hotel
Elevation
1345

After the beautiful sunshine morning will sadly wake up you, your trip in Nepal comes to an end today; our spokesperson will escort you to the airport approx 3 hours before your flight schedule. On your way home, you have plenty of time to plan for your next adventure tour in the amazing Himalayan country.

There will be a heart-touching relationship between you and our company during this trip. Nepal Unique Treks Family will be missing you and praying for your safe departure home.

Note: "The trekking guides and porters we provide are professionals and local peoples; the Nepal Unique Treks team assures you of this fact. For the expedition, tested and certified equipment is suitable to use to avoid any possible accidents or mishaps on your own.

We will respond to any of your queries, if you require any assistance or information you can feel free to contact us from our network." Thank you please Tell to Friend about our work in the mountains.

 

Food
B
Elevation
1345

What Is Included ?

  • All ground transportation  by private vehicles including airport pickup drop 
  • Three-night accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • Full board meals with tea/coffee (Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • The best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek,
  • We provide you attached bathroom with a hot shower at Lukla, Phakding, and Namche
  • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, a porter, and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
  • Kathmandu to Lukla including departure taxes
  • A private helicopter from Gorakshep to Kathmandu
  • Duffle bag for the trekking
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek if require
  • Nepal Unique Treks 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

What Is Excluded?

  • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
  • Travel Insurance
  • Extra night accomodation 
  • Kathmandu Valley Entrance fee $25
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Cold Drinks Inc. coke, water, Fanta, etc.
  • Snacks and other personal expenses
  • Hot showers during the trek except in Phakding, Namche and Lukla
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers

Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return Altitude Profile

Route Map

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Trip Facts

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Accommodation:

Hotel. Lodge .Tea House

Height:

5550 m

Grade:

Adventure

Duration:

12 days

Activity:

Trekking and fly back by Helicopter

Transportation:

Privet jeep/Helicopter (Group Base 4 people)

Treks Type:

Trek / Tour

Best Season:

Spring (March – May) Autumn (Sep – Nov)
background 2800 US$2495
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