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Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter

5 - Excellent
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Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter 9 Days, Moderate

Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter begins with a short domestic flight to Lukla. From Lukla, we rely on our own feet for the rest of the journey. On the very first day, you will also get to explore the taste of an intoxicating blend of mountain views and the local Sherpa culture. Nights will be spent mostly in lodges and enough time for acclimatization will be allocated whenever great significant altitude shift is involved. You don’t need to climb Everest or any other mountain for an adventure experience; you will realize at the end of the trip.

Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Moderate

A moderate trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a good level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours.

Max Elevation: 5,644.5 m (Kalapatthar)

The highest point of the trek is a perfect vantage point to get close-up views of Everest, Pumori, Ama Dablam, etc.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Comfortable accommodation with basic facilities during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

Healthy and Hygienic 3-course meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Stable weather and temperature offer clear views and comfortable trekking trails.

Trip Route:

Lukla – Phakding – Namche Bazaar – Tengboche – Dingboche – Lobuche – Gorakshep -Everest Base Camp – Gorakshep – Kalapatthar – Gorakshep- Helicopter fly out to Lukla

Trip Highlights

  • Exciting Helicopter Fly Out to Lukla from Gorakshep
  • Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kalapatthar viewpoint (5644.5 m)
  • Attractive Khumjung village and other Sherpa settlements
  • Impressive views of Everest, Lhotse-Nuptse Wall, Ama Dablam, and Kantega
  • Sherpa locals, lifestyle, and culture
  • Mountaineering Museum in Namche Bazaar
  • Numerous monasteries, lamaseries, and temples including the famous Tengboche Monastery

Trip Overview

Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter begins with a short domestic flight to Lukla. From Lukla, we rely on our own feet for the rest of the journey. On the very first day, you will also get to explore the taste of an intoxicating blend of mountain views and the local Sherpa culture. Nights will be spent mostly in lodges and enough time for acclimatization will be allocated whenever great significant altitude shift is involved. You don’t need to climb Everest or any other mountain for an adventure experience; you will realize at the end of the trip.

Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter follows the Dudh Koshi River (upstream) and passes through Dudh Koshi Valley surrounded by Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru peaks. After reaching the colorful Namche Bazar and Tengboche we finally ascend to Kalapatthar, the highest point of our trail. You will also explore the Mountaineering Museum in Namche Bazaar, and witness mountain life in Khumjung, and many monasteries, lamaseries, and temples during the trip, including the famous Tengboche Monastery.

You will trek to Kalapatthar early in the morning. Kalapatthar is the most important for its massive views of the entire Himalayas. Enjoy the Himalaya views like Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,864 m), Mt. Pumori (7,156 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,153 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,513 m) and many more. Descend to Gorakshep and fly out to Lukla on a shared helicopter.

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Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter Gallery

Taking off Helicopter from the mountain with passengers
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Everest Base Camp Trek via Jiri

Trip Outline

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Trek preparation day
Documentation works (Issue of Permits, Paper works), (Optional: Sightseeing in UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu)

Day 03: Kathmandu – Lukla (flight) (2860 m) – Phakding (trek)
Scenic flight to Lukla, start trek to Phakding with guide and porters.

Day 04: Phakding (2610 m) – Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Trek to the vibrant Sherpa capital Namche Bazaar which is the gateway to the Everest Base Camp.

Day 05: Acclimatization
Spend the first acclimatization day hiking to the Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village (3,790 m) tour.

Day 06: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche (3867 m)
Trek to Tengboche which is home to the largest Tengboche Monastery in the Everest region.

Day 07: Tengboche – Dingboche (4410 m)
Trek to only barley-grown place Dingboche where you experience an increase in altitude, so trek slowly.

Day 08: Acclimatization
Spend the second acclimatization day hiking to the grand Nangsar Tshang Peak (5,083 m) or the beautiful Chhukung Valley.

Day 09: Dingboche – Lobuche (4940 m)
Trek pass Khumbu Glacier moraine to reach Lobuche.

Day 10: Lobuche – Everest Base Camp (5364 m) – Gorakshep (5164 m)
Adventurous trek to reach the iconic Everest Base Camp and return.

Day 11: Gorakshep – Kalapatthar (5644.5 m) – Sharing Helicopter Fly Out to Lukla
An exciting Helicopter Fly Out to the vantage point Kalapatthar for a close-up of Everest and other peaks views and returns to Lukla via helicopter.

Day 12: Lukla – Kathmandu flight (1400 m)
Back to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 13: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter that provide basic facilities (beds, quilts, and pillows) but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are inside the teahouses except in the higher regions. During the peak season, room sharing must be done. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions. Pay an additional cost for services (Wi-Fi, laundry, hot water, and showers). Everest Links is an internet provider and there is Wi-Fi up to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Trekkers can munch on bakery items, continental foods, and coffee in Namche. There are a variety of meals to choose from on the menu. (Nepali Dal-Bhat, steamed mo: mo, hot thukpa, soup, porridge, pancake, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc.). Please inform your food menu preference earlier if there is any.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 1-2 per bottle.

The transportation during the trek is as scheduled in the itinerary preferred by the travelers which is as follows:

  • Private vehicle transfer to/from the airport in Kathmandu
  • Private vehicle ride to Ramechhap and transfer to/from the airport (only during April, May, October, and November months)
  • Gorakshep – Lukla via Helicopter
  • Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu flight

The ideal seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. There is a high chance of flight cancellation during monsoon and winter. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter requires three compulsory permits i.e. Sagarmatha National Park (SNP), Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

  • Foreigners- NPR 3000
  • SAARC- NPR 2000

Sagarmatha National Park (SNP)

  • Foreigners- NPR 3000
  • SAARC- NPR 1500

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

The Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter is a moderate-level trek with a maximum elevation of 5,644.5 m. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails and gaining altitude can be challenging for trekkers. This trek is suitable for trekkers with a medium level of physical fitness as it does not involve any technicality. Previous experience is preferable.

Fitness:

Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter demands trekkers to have top-notch fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter is 5,644.5 m (Kalapatthar). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

The Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter is a moderate-level trek. Thus, only requires basic equipment and gear which trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek (Toilet and bathroom will be outside of the room); Deluxe accommodation for 3 nights in Kathmandu, on a sharing basis
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Transportation: All ground transportation in a luxury private vehicle. Domestic flight (Kathmandu/Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap/Kathmandu) as scheduled in the itinerary. Gorakshep-Lukla via a shared helicopter
  • Documentation: Trekking permit (Sagarmatha National Park), Khumbu village entry permit, and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use (Use if Required)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward.
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations
  • Your travel insurance, and International Air Fares
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • Excess baggage charges on the Domestic flight (The airlines allow 15 kg per person if the luggage is more than 15 kilos, approx. USD 1 per kilo will be charged additionally)
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive in Kathmandu

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive. 7 km.

On your day of arrival in Kathmandu, we will receive you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. If time permits, we will have a brief meeting in our office.

Hotel

Day 02 Trek preparation day (Optional: Sightseeing in Kathmandu, UNESCO world heritage sites)

While we do prepare your trekking permits, you can enjoy Kathmandu Valley full-day sightseeing with a tour guide and Private Transportation. After that, we will introduce your trekking guide, and briefly about the trip.

Note: (Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu is at an additional cost.)

Hotel Breakfast

Day 03 Kathmandu - Lukla flight - Phakding trek

Elevation: Lukla (2860 m), Phakding (2610 m) 45-minute flight, 3-4 hours trek. 8 km. Elevation loss: 250 m

Our guide will pick you up at 5:30 am and drive to the airport. You will board the early morning flight at 6:30 am and fly to Lukla for about 45 minutes. After breakfast in Lukla, we will walk for about 4 hours to Phakding, a fairly plain terrain inhabited by Sherpas. Afterward, we will follow upstream the Dudh Koshi River and spend the night in a lodge.

Teahouse B+L+D

Get way to Everest region trekking, Lukla airport

Day 04 Phakding - Namche Bazaar

Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 5-6 hours trek. 11 km. Elevation gain: 830 m

We will trek for nearly 6 hours to reach Namche Bazar, the famous town in Solukhumbu. The last 2 hours of this trek will be tougher, but the beautiful sceneries on the way will make you forget your tiredness. The night will be spent in a local teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 05 Acclimatization (Day Hike)

Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 4-5 hours trek. 7 km. Elevation gain: 350 m

To help your body adjust to the high-altitude conditions, we will spend the day for acclimatization. You can do some daytime hiking explore Khumjung village and return to the teahouse at Namche Bazaar for the night stay.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 06 Namche Bazaar - Tengboche

Elevation: Tengboche (3867 m) 5-6 hours trek. 9 km. Elevation gain: 427 m

After a 5-6 hour trek, you will reach Tengboche (3867 m), a perfect viewpoint to observe the beautiful peaks of Ama Dablam and Thamserku and a greater part of the Himalayan range in the Khumbu Region.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 07 Tengboche - Dingboche

Elevation: Dingboche (4410 m) 5-6 hours trek. 10 km. Elevation gain: 543 m

Dingboche (4410 m) lies at about a walking distance of 5-6 hours. Due to the increasing altitude, you will be walking slower than on previous days.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 08 Acclimatization (Day Hike)

Elevation: Dingboche (4410 m) 4-5 hours trek. 10 km. Elevation gain: 673 m

As the elevation rises, the acclimatization rest is essential to adjust the body to the surroundings. Take a short hike to the Nangsar Tshang Peak (5,083 m) which is full of challenges. Despite challenges, the mesmerizing views of Pumori, Cho Oyu, etc. from the top is rewarding. After exploration, descend slowly to a teahouse for lunch.

A half-day is free to explore on your own. Visit nearby villages, and interact with locals. You can also spend some time alone peacefully at the bank of the Imja River adoring the surrounding beauty. Stay Overnight at a teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 09 Dingboche - Lobuche

Elevation: Lobuche (4940 m) 5-6 hours trek. 8 km. Elevation gain: 530 m

Our next stopover is Lobuche (4940 m), at about a walking distance of 5-6 hours. Views of Mt. Pumori and Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Lhotse, and many more are the main highlights of the day.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 10 Lobuche - Everest Base Camp - Gorakshep

Elevation: Everest Base Camp (5364 m), Gorakshep (5164 m) 8-9 hours trek. 11 km. Elevation gain/loss: 424 m/200 m

The next segment of your trek, Lobuche to Gorakshep (5164 m) is short and can be completed in about 3-4 hours, just in time for lunch. After resting for a few hours, we will take you on a walk to Everest Base Camp in the evening to see the beautiful sunset over the majestic Mt. Everest. Then we return to Gorakshep for an overnight stay.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 11 Gorakshep - Kalapatthar (5644.5 m) - Sharing Helicopter Fly Out to Lukla

Elevation: Kalapatthar (5644.5 m) 3-4 hours trek, 2 hours’ helicopter flight. 10 km. Elevation gain/loss: 480.5

An exciting day to hike to the vantage point of Kalapatthar which takes 2 hours. Start early to witness stunning sunrise views over snow-covered peaks like Mt. Everest, Pumori, Ama Dablam, etc. The panoramic close-up views of Everest and other surrounding peaks make you forget an hour-long tiring trek hike. Create some memories, and take some snaps quickly as the high altitude can be challenging for some trekkers. Descend to Gorakshep and from Gorakshep, fly out to Lukla on a shared helicopter. Overnight stay at the teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Everest view from kalapatthar Everest & walls as seen from Kalapatthar

Day 12 Lukla - Kathmandu (flight)

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 45-minute flight, 30-minute hotel drive.

Early breakfast at the lodge then take flight back to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, check in to the Hotel, a free & easy day around the city on your own. In the evening enjoy the Live Cultural show with a Nepali typical dinner (or meals of your choice at a decent restaurant in Thamel) offered by Outdoor Himalayan Treks. Night at the hotel.

Note: (In April, May, October, and November, the flight schedule is Lukla-Ramechhap-Kathmandu.)

Hotel Breakfast

Day 13 Departure

We will transfer you to the International airport at your comfortable time, and fly out Home. (Or if you extend your stay in Kathmandu, we will be happy to arrange the airport transfer as of your preferred date and time)

Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter FAQs

Yes, most travelers need a visa for Nepal, which can be easily obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through an online application before arrival.

It is only 9 days with a shared helicopter fly-back from Gorakshep including acclimatization days to ensure proper adjustment to the high altitude.

The difficulty of the trek is moderate due to factors like high altitude, steep ascents and descents, and weather conditions.

The necessary permits for the trek are the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit, and TIMS Permit which can be obtained in Kathmandu or through a trekking agency.

The highest point reached during the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter is Kalapatthar at an altitude of 5,644.5 m which offers panoramic views of Mount Everest and other peaks.

Comfortable teahouses or lodges with basic facilities are accommodations during the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter.

The weather is stable with moderate temperature during peak seasons (Spring and Autumn) but as the altitude rises, it gets colder and windier. Pack wisely and be prepared for changing weather conditions during the trek.

A licensed guide is mandatory for the Everest Base Camp trek which is an advantage as the guide provides valuable support and looks after all your requirements.

Yes, porters make trekking journeys more comfortable which allows you to enjoy trekking freely.

Trekking in the mountains is very challenging. So, before embarking on the trek, trekkers should be in good physical health, and mentally sound, and consult with a doctor if necessary.

The major risks include altitude sickness, extreme weather conditions, strenuous terrain, and potential avalanches. It is important to be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions.

Headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, loss of sleep & appetite, and weakness are the common symptoms of altitude sickness.

Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and salty foods, ascend slowly, eat well, acclimatize properly, follow the guide’s instructions, and immediately inform the guide if you experience altitude sickness symptoms to prevent altitude sickness.

Our client’s health is our priority which is why altitude sickness is managed with proper acclimatization rest days, skilled guides with acclimatization plans, and the use of oxygen supplies and emergency evacuation if necessary.

Vegetarian food options are available during the trek but vegan food options are limited during the trek.

There is a variety of meal options to choose from the menu for the trekkers including authentic Nepalese cuisine to continental cuisines that are healthy and hygienic.

Yes, bottled water is available at teahouses and lodges, but it is advisable to carry water purification tablets or a water filter to minimize plastic waste and ensure access to safe drinking water.

Yes, unlimited hot water is provided for drinking during the Everest Base Camp trek at an additional cost.

Yes, most teahouses and lodges have electricity available which comes at an additional cost. We suggest carrying spare batteries or a portable solar charger as a backup.

The trek package includes basic accommodation, meals, permits, a guide, porters, domestic flights, private vehicle transportation, complimentary use of equipment, and an emergency evacuation service.

The luggage limit on domestic flights to Lukla is generally 10-15 kg for check-in luggage and 5 kg for hand luggage.

The guides use communication devices to deal with emergencies during the trek and are well-prepared for the quick evacuation process.

Yes, the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter itinerary is flexible to customize to a traveler’s preference (time, duration, route, accommodation, meal options, etc.).

To book the Everest Base Camp Trek Return to Lukla by Helicopter with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.