Everest Base Camp Trek and Return By Helicopter
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Trip Duration
7 Days |
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Region
Everest Treks |
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Country
Nepal |
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Group Size
2 to 15 Person |
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Best Season
Autumn And Spring |
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Max Altitude
5555M |
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Moderate level treks usually above 7 days. Altitude can reach 5000 meters with 5-6 hrs of hike per day. Moderate refers to neither easy walk nor tough. High altitude may matter on walking speed and distance. Acclimatization may be required.
| Trip Grade Moderate |
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Activities
Nepal Trekking
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Everest Base Camp Trek and Return By Helicopter Overview
Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) is on every trekker’s bucket list — this luxury Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return makes that dream more accessible, efficient, and exhilarating. You’ll hike through the breathtaking Khumbu Valley, pass through legendary Sherpa villages, and stand face-to-face with the world’s highest peak.
Rather than retracing your steps downhill, you’ll board a helicopter at Gorak Shep and fly over Everest, the Khumbu Glacier, and other Himalayan giants. It’s the best Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return for those seeking comfort, thrill, and time efficiency in one life-changing adventure.
Trip Highlights:
- Scenic Flight to Lukla: Experience a thrilling flight to one of the world’s most dramatic mountain airports.
- Namche Bazaar & Sherpa Culture: Explore the heart of Sherpa traditions and visit the Everest View Hotel.
- Tengboche Monastery & Himalayan Peaks: Visit Tengboche Monastery, framed by Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Ama Dablam (6,812 m)— a spiritual and scenic gem.
- Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar: Stand at Everest Base Camp and enjoy a sunrise summit view from Kala Patthar (5,545m).
- Glacier & Peak Views: Trek past the Khumbu Glacier, where you will see Nuptse, Amadablam, Tabuche, Thamserku, Kangtega, and other peaks.
- Memorial Pass at Thukla (4,802m): Honor climbers at the Everest Memorial while surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
- Helicopter Return from Gorak Shep: End your trek in style with a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Kathmandu, skipping the descent and soaking in breathtaking aerial views.
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek- Ultimate Hiking Plan
This luxury Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return – 11 days blends rugged adventure with aerial elegance. Hike through the heart of the Khumbu region, reach iconic spots like Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, and skip the return trek with a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Kathmandu.
It’s the best Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return for those who want the full trekking experience without the long descent — perfect for travelers short on time but big on ambition.
Things to Consider Before Trekking to EBC
- Physical Preparation: This trek requires solid fitness. Focus on cardio & strength training to boost endurance for 5-6 hour hiking days.
- Acclimatization: Plan gradual ascents and include rest days to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Weather Conditions: The best times to trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September – November) for clear skies and stable temperatures.
- Permits and Regulations: Obtain necessary permits, such as the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entrance Permit before trekking.
- Packing Essentials: Bring thermal layers, a quality sleeping bag, sturdy trekking boots, and a personal first aid kit.
Everest Base Camp Trek Altitude Breakdown
Understanding elevation is key to planning your pace and acclimatization strategy. Here’s the altitude profile:
| Location | Elevation |
| Lukla | 2,860m/9,383ft. |
| Phakding | 2,610m/8,563ft. |
| Namche Bazaar | 3,440m/11,286ft. |
| Tengboche | 3,860m/12,664ft. |
| Lobuche | 4,940m/16,207ft. |
| Gorak Shep | 5,164m/16,942ft. |
| Everest Base Camp | 5,364m/17,598ft. |
| Kala Patthar | 5,545m/18,192ft. |
This structured altitude plan supports acclimatization and prepares you for the ascent to Kala Patthar — the highest point on this trek.
Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty & Fitness Requirements
The Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return is a moderate-level trek that lasts 11 days and reaches up to 5,555m at Kala Patthar. While no climbing skills are needed, the altitude, terrain, and hiking duration require serious physical preparation and acclimatization.
Key Challenges:
- High Altitude: Oxygen levels drop by nearly 40% above 3,000m, increasing the risk of altitude sickness.
- Daily Duration: Expect to trek 5-6 hours daily on mixed terrain — rocky, uneven, and occasionally snowy.
- Trail Conditions: Steep climbs, descents, and high-altitude passes demand good balance and stamina.
- Weather Extremes: Temperatures can drop to -10°C or lower at higher altitudes, especially at night.
Fitness Requirements
- Cardiovascular Endurance: Running, cycling, or swimming improves lung capacity — essential for thin-air hiking.
- Muscular Strength: Train your legs with squats, lunges, and step-ups to handle sustained climbs.
- Flexibility: Stretching and yoga improve balance and reduce injury risk on uneven terrain.
- Mental Resilience: Expect basic lodging, cold nights, and unpredictable weather. Stay mentally prepared for the elements.
Preparation Tips: Start a 2-3 month training plan with a mix of:
- Cardio workouts (3–5 days/week)
- Strength training (especially lower body)
- Day hikes with elevation gain to simulate trail conditions
- Practice with gear — especially your boots and pack
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
This 11-day Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return combines classic trekking routes with a thrilling flight back from Gorakshep to Kathmandu, saving time and energy while maximizing the experience.
| Total Duration | 11 Days |
| Max. Altitude | Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft.) |
| Return Mode | A helicopter from Gorak Shep |
Outline Itinerary For EBC Helicopter Trek
Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to Hotel. (1300m).
Day 2. Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2860m) Then trek to Phakding. (2650m), 6.2 Kilometer approximately.
Day 3. Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar. (3440m), 7.4 Kilometer Approximately.
Day 4. Rest Day in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5. Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3850m), 9.5 kilometers Approximately.
Day 6. Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m) 11 Kilometer Approximately.
Day 7. Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4930m). 11 Kilometer Approximately.
Day 8. Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5160m). Trek to Everest Base camp 5,365 m and down to Gorakshep. 15 Kilometer Approximately.
Day 9. Trek from Gorak Shep to Kalapathar (5550m). Trek down to Gorekshep, Pick up by Helicopter and Fly back to Kathmandu directly.
Day 10. Shopping Departure or extend your trip.
Everest Base Camp Trek and Return By Helicopter Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Walking Hours: 30 Minutes Drive
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel
Max. Altitude: 1310M
Please Fillup CCMC Form before arrive to Nepal
We will pick up you from the airport, Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your respective hotel by our team.
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla then trek to Monju
Walking Hours: 35 Minutes Airstrip And 5-6 Hours Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Max. Altitude: 2804M
Distance: 10KM
The most unpredictable in the Everest Base Camp trek plan is likely trip to Lukla. We caught the journey again, and this time it was less turbulent and passed quite swiftly with no issues or cancellations (which happen very often). Because early flights frequently depart without issues, we chose the latest departure that was offered. It frequently becomes windy later in the day, which causes aircraft to be delayed or rescheduled
Early this morning, you will be transferred to the domestic airport to catch a flight to Lukla. The 35 minutes Mountain flight is scenic and a perfect spot for mountain-seeing. The view from the flight is more like a trailer for the entire movie that lies ahead in your trek.
Day 3: Trek from Monju to Namche Bazaar
Walking Hours: 4 Hours Trek
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Max. Altitude: 3445M
Distance: 9KM
You will trek to Namche Bazaar from Monzo. The route will lead you into Sagarmatha National Park. Its remarkable beauty has it enlisted under the UNESCO world heritage site. The park is also home to several wildlife inhabitants.
Namche Bazaar lies at 11,270ft and is also an unofficial capital of the Khumbu Region. You will spend the night in a local lodge in Namche Bazaar.
Day 4: Rest Day in Namche Bazaar
Walking Hours: 3 To 4 Hours Day Hiking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Max. Altitude: 3445M
You will need to rest for a day in Namche Bazaar. The rest is a must for acclimatization. However, you will not be spending this day idle. You will be taken for sight-seeing and small hikes around Namche. You will spend the night in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Walking Hours: 5 To 6 Hours Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Max. Altitude: 3850M
Distance: 9.5KM
The route to Tengboche is a spiritual one comprising various monasteries and temples. You will be visiting Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual centre of Khumbu situated at an elevation of 12,700ft.
The trail heads through Kayangjuma towards Sansa and a Pine Forest before entering into Tengboche. You will spend the night in a local lodge.
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
Walking Hours: 5 To 6 Hours Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Max. Altitude: 4350M
Distance: 11KM
The hike to Dingboche is at an elevation of 14,000 ft. You will also be walking over a suspension bridge that gains its popularity from the spectacular view of the mountain, Ama Dablam.
The valley will slowly begin to open up as you approach the confluence of the Lobuche River. A steep climb across the river will bring you to Dingboche. You will spend the night in a local lodge.
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
Walking Hours: 5 To 6 Hours Trekking
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Max. Altitude: 4950M
Distance: 11KM
Lobuche lies at an elevation of 16,170ft. On the way to Lobuche, you will pass by a number of stone memorials to honor climbers who failed in their attempt to make it to the peak of Mt. Everest.
This route will also offer you views of Nuptse, Cholatse, Thamserku, and several other magnificent peaks. As the trail drops to the Khumbu Glacier moraine, you will gain the closest view of Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori and Mahalangur Himal. You will spend the night in a local lodge.
Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Ghorakshep and Trek to Explore Everest Base camp ( 5364 m) and down to Ghorakshep
Walking Hours: 7 To 8 Hours Treks
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Accommodation: Tea Houses
Max. Altitude: 5160M
Distance: 15KM
This is probably the most thrilling day of the trek. After lunch at Gorak Shep, you will hike up the notorious Khumbu icefall. From here, you will walk to the Everest Base Camp.
You will spend an hour or so exploring the camp side which is affluently gifted with natural scenic beauty. You will trek back to Ghorakshep, and spend the night in a local lodge there.
Day 10: Trek from Gorakshep to Kalapathar (5545m) and Trek down Gorekshep, Pick up by Helicopter and fly back to Kathmandu directly
Walking Hours: 3 Hours Hiking And 2 Hours Helicopter Flight
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel
Max. Altitude: 1310M
Kalapathar ( 5555M) is the highest height you can gain in this trek. It is an excellent viewpoint of Mount Everest. Along with Everest, innumerable spectacular peaks are also visible from Kalapatthar.
From Kalapatthar, We will walk down to Gorekshep, Pick it up by Helicopter and fly back to Kathmandu directly. Pick up from Kathmandu airport and drop you at your Hotel in Kathmandu.
Everest Base Camp Trek and Return By Helicopter Cost
Quotation Can be Different According to Number of Days in Trekking, Your Country of Residence, Number of days in City, Guide quality, Equipments, Flights Company, Hotels quality in City, Transportation Type, Number of Trekkers in your Groups, Teahouses quality of Trekking, Meals what include in Trekking, Other Numerous included Items. For exaxt Cost Please Message us in whatsapp. +977-9841965533
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Domestic flights (Kathmandu- Lukla including the guide) with all applicable taxes.
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Scenic flight from Gorakshep to Kathmandu by helicopter.
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An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide and his/her assistant(s) (every 6 trekkers 1 assistant guide) with meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance.
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Strong, experienced porter(s) (every 2 trekkers 1 porter) with all meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance.
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Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion).
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All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS).
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Comprehensive first aid medical kit (carried by your trek guide).
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Complimentary welcome or farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant in Kathmandu (Optional).
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All government and local taxes, and company service charges.
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Nepal visa fee, International air tickets, travel and medical insurance, emergency evacuation costs.
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Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
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Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (also in the case of early returns or late departures than the scheduled itinerary).
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Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, extra drinks, battery charge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower, etc.).
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Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s).
Trip Gear
Everest Base Camp Trek and Return By Helicopter Related Information
What types of foods are available during Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek?
Depending on the operator and the exact route traveled, the sorts of meals available on the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek may vary, but in general, the food options in Nepal’s mountainous terrain are few and straightforward, with a focus on high-energy, nutrient-dense cuisine.
During the journey, common food items include:
- Lentils with rice
- Veggies and potatoes
- Tonkatsu soups
- Butter and bread
- Breakfast of porridge or oats Snacks of energy bars, chocolate, and peanuts
- Hot chocolate, coffee, and tea
- Instant soups and noodles.
Keep in mind that at higher elevations, fresh vegetable selection and availability may be restricted, and that location and season might have an impact on food quality.
Additionally, it’s crucial to drink enough of water while hiking, especially at high altitudes, to stay hydrated. On most trails, it’s simple to find clean drinking water, either from nearby natural sources or by buying bottled water.
What types of accommodations are available during Everest Base Camp Trek Return by Helicopter?
Depending on the operator and the route traveled, different types of lodgings may be made available during the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek. However, in general, hikers may anticipate staying in straightforward but cozy lodges, commonly referred to as “tea houses,” along the way.
Simple twin-bed rooms with common bathrooms are available in tea houses. Bring a decent sleeping bag and appropriate clothing for chilly nights at high altitudes since not all tea houses may have electricity or hot water.
In some locations, there are even more opulent lodges and campers that provide superior amenities including private rooms, hot showers, and restaurant-style eating.
It’s crucial to remember that accommodations along the path can range in quality, so it’s a good idea to do some research and compare your alternatives before committing to your walk to make sure you find the ideal mix of comfort and price.
Everest Base Camp Trek and Return By Helicopter FAQ'S
No, the EBC Helicopter Trek cost differs for foreigners, Indian, and Nepalese citizens due to variable permit fees.
Yes, it is cheaper to book the trek in a group because shared costs lower the per-person price.
The factors influencing the cost of the trek are the number of trekking days, group size, guide quality, hotel standards and meal options, seasonal pricing variations, and inclusions like private vs. shared helicopter return.
No, helicopters can’t fly in bad weather due to visibility issues and flight safety regulations.
Yes, the EBC trek is suitable for beginners with proper training, fitness, and acclimatization.
No, Special training is not required for this trek, but stamina-building hikes and cardio will help you complete it.
The Everest Base Camp Trek’s success rate is over 90% with proper acclimatization and a guided itinerary.
Yes, altitude sickness is common above 3,000m, but gradual ascent and hydration reduce the risk.
If you get sick or injured during the trek, guides provide first-aid response and, in serious cases, arrange helicopter evacuation.
The insurance required for this trek must cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation above 5,000m.
Yes, it is safe to return by helicopter from the Everest Base Camp as flights are routine and pilot-certified.
Yes, you can take a helicopter both ways by booking the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour option.
Yes, the helicopter return has a weight limit of 220-240kg per flight, shared among other trekkers.
Yes, Everest Base Camp is crowded during peak trekking seasons like spring and autumn.
Absolutely! Everest Base Camp is worth visiting for its mountain views, cultural immersion, and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Yes, you usually lose 3-5kg during the Everest Base Camp trek due to continuous hiking and diet.
Everest Base Camp Trek and Return By Helicopter Reviews
We have Everest Base Camp trekking and back to Kathmandu by Helicopter. Have a tour guide. Our Guide call Narkubir, he is professional Normal English is Normal, punctual on time. Hospitality is good. Highly appreciated by the company services.
I was traveling alone in Nepal to take Everest base camp trekking and It was fantastic to take this with helicopter back to Kathmandu with Mission Himalaya, his guide Ranjit Rai made a great job showing and explaining me The Himalaya range Sherpa culture and Monastery of Everest region. And Birendra show me the beauty of Kathmandu.
My lifetime dream to see “Top of the world,” by my open eye not by computer photo. It makes me success by Mission Himalaya treks. I trekked 7 days from Lukla to Gorakshep. Day 1 Kathmandu to Lukla flight and Phakding, second day Namche, third-day rest in Namche. Fourth-day Tengboche, fifth-day DingbocheSixth-day rest in Dingboche, 7th day Lobuche, 8th-day Gorakhshep, and 9th is my best day morning beautiful view from Kala Patthar and back to hotel take breakfast and take a scenic flight helicopter back to Kathmandu. No need to trekking back from the same way and the flight was amazing, take it the world highest mountain see by helicopter. Tks the company and their guide and porter.,
The views were spectacular when finishing the trek and back from a helicopter from Gorakhshep to Kathmandu. Flight attendants are very nice and informative, showing me and other passengers in the helicopter names of peaks and snow high mountains. Trekking from Lukla to Gorakhshep was so well managed bt guide Rangit and porter Saran Rai. Overall, my trip to Nepal is one of the best experiences in my life. Mission Himalaya Success to manage our Nepal trekking and Heli back.
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