Everest Base Camp Heli Trek trekking

E v e r e s t   B a s e   C a m p   H e l i   T r e k

Everest Base Camp Heli Trek combines trekking and helicopter return, offering stunning mountain views.

Region

everest

Duration

13 Days

Walk

5 - 7 Hrs

Elevation

5545m

Best Season

Spring/Autumn

Accommodation

Hotel + Lodge + Tent

Price

$3,595 USD

Trip Overview

The Everest Base Camp Heli Trek combines the thrill of trekking with the luxury of a helicopter ride, offering unparalleled views of the majestic Himalayas. Starting in Kathmandu, your adventure begins with a scenic flight to Lukla (2,860 m), the gateway to the Everest region. From here, the trek follows the Dudh Kosi River, winding through vibrant rhododendron and magnolia forests.Acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital, and Dingboche, a serene village nestled below Ama Dablam, allow you to adjust to the altitude while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

As you ascend to Lobuche, you’ll experience a dramatic change in the landscape, entering a frozen wilderness of icy rivers and glacial terrain. The journey to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) is a highlight, bringing you to the base of the world's tallest peak. The following day, a trek to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) rewards you with awe-inspiring views of Everest and the cascading Khumbu Glacier.

After an exhilarating morning at Kala Patthar, you’ll enjoy breakfast in Gorak Shep before boarding a helicopter for a spectacular flight back to Kathmandu. This trek is an ideal choice for adventurers seeking a blend of rugged trekking and luxurious travel. Helicopter tours to Everest Base Camp typically range from $1,200 to $2,500 per person, depending on the package and group size.

Group Discount

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Kathmandu: Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu or Bhaktapur. A short briefing will follow concerning the necessary formalities and your trekking itinerary. Depending on your arrival time, you may spend your free time visiting nearby sanctuaries or resting.
  • Day 2
    Trek Preparations and Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley: Half-day sightseeing tour of UNESCO Bhaktapur and Kathmandu, including Buddhist and Hindu temples and shrines reflecting ancient local traditions. Free time to explore the city or rest while trekking permits are finalized. In the evening, sample a delicious traditional Nepali dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
  • Day 3
    Kathmandu to Phakding: Early morning flight to Lukla (30 minutes). Begin trekking north from Lukla airstrip to Chablung, crossing the Tharo Koshi river via suspension bridge. Continue past Ghat to Phakding for an overnight stay.
  • Day 4
    Phakding to Namche Bazaar: Follow the Dudh Koshi river through forests and villages. Enter Sagarmatha National Park and cross several suspension bridges before reaching Namche Bazaar, the main trading center of the region, for an overnight stay.
  • Day 5
    Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar: Day hike through Khunde and Khumjung villages with panoramic views. Return to Namche Bazaar after enjoying the sights and a gradual descent.
  • Day 6
    Namche Bazaar to Tengboche: Trek through side valleys with ups and downs to Kenjoma, then descend to Phunki Thanga. Climb through forests to the saddle where Tengboche Monastery sits, offering magnificent Himalayan views. Overnight in Tengboche.
  • Day 7
    Tengboche to Pheriche: Descend through forests to Deboche and cross the Imja Khola river. Ascend past Pangboche village and through alpine meadows to Pheriche, a labyrinth of walls and pastures.
  • Day 8
    Acclimatization in Pheriche: Spend an additional day acclimatizing with a hike to Chhukung for views of Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Return to Pheriche for the night.
  • Day 9
    Pheriche to Duglha: Ascend the valley from Pheriche to Phalang Karpo, crossing streams and climbing onto the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier before reaching Duglha.
  • Day 10
    Duglha to Lobuche: Climb the Khumbu Glacier's terminal moraine to Chukpilhara, a memorial area for fallen climbers. Continue to Lobuche, a summer settlement with stunning sunset views of Nuptse.
  • Day 11
    Lobuche to Gorak Shep: Trek through meadows beside the glacial moraine, crossing side moraines to reach Gorak Shep. Visit Everest Base Camp before returning to Gorak Shep for the night.
  • Day 12
    Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Kathmandu via Helicopter: Climb Kala Patthar for panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks. Return to Gorak Shep for breakfast before a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel upon arrival.
  • Day 13
    Kathmandu: Departure from Kathmandu or continuation of onward travels in Nepal.

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Four nights of hotel accommodations with breakfast in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur
  • Licensed and trained trekking guides
  • Porters for carrying goods and supplies
  • All accommodation during the trek
  • All meals and hot beverages while trekking
  • Transportation to and from the trailhead
  • All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
  • National Park/Conservation Area entry permit
  • Equipment such as sleeping bags, tents, and mattresses
  • Cooking equipment (if required)
  • Camp-site charges (if required)
  • Insurance, medication, and equipment for staff
  • Coordination of Quick Rescue service (costs covered by your insurance plan)

Cost Excludes

  • International airfares
  • Travel and trekking insurance
  • Excess baggage charges for luggage over 16kg and hand baggage over 5kg on domestic flights
  • Visa fees
  • Airport departure tax
  • Rescue charges
  • Drinks (cold and alcoholic)
  • Personal expenses
  • Permit and liaison officer fees (if applicable)
  • Lunches and dinners not included during trekking