Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return to Lukla

Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return to Lukla - 13 Days

Highlights of Trek

  • Trek to the base of highest mountain in the world , Mt. Everest (8849m)
  • Immerse in typical Sherpa culture and Walk of Life
  • Experience Nepalese highlands with professional mountain experts
  • Gaze at the astounding Everest Vista up-close
  • Adventuresome Helicopter Ride from Gorakshep to Lukla
  • Conquer the diverse landscape and terrain of Sagarmatha National Park which listed as UNESCO world heritage site.

Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most sought after trek in Nepal for its traverse through typical Sherpa settlements and final stop at the base of the biggest mountain in the world, Mt.Everest (8849m). There are various options for you to choose on your trek to Everest Base Camp, you may choose to traverse the entire trip on the Helicopter with our Everest Base Camp Heli Tour or Trek to Everest Base Camp and return via Helicopter to Kathmandu. Another alternative which is even more popular in the recent time is Trek to Everest Base Camp and return via Heli ride to Lukla.

A typical trek to Everest Base Camp begins with a scenic eastward flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Lukla stands at 2860 metres and the Tenzing Hillary airport in Lukla is considered to be one of the most adventuresome journey through narrows gorges of the high hills of eastern Nepal. The runway of this airport is inclined and nestled at the base of a gigantic mountain, which is notorious for being one of the riskiest airports worldwide due to its location and short runway. The trek proceeds through the scenic villages of the Khumbu area, tracing the path of the Dudh Koshi river and navigating through forests containing rhododendron, pine, and fir.

As you climb to higher altitudes, you'll traverse various Sherpa villages, including Namche Bazaar, the entrance to the Khumbu region. Namche Bazaar is a vibrant market town where trekkers can purchase supplies, relax, and get used to the altitude. Following Namche, the trail leads to Tengboche, where visitors can explore the well-known Tengboche monastery and take in magnificent views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. 

The trek from Tengboche takes you through verdant forests of rhododendron, pine, and fir, offering magnificent vistas of the Himalayan range, including famous peaks like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The trail then descends towards Imja Khola river and leads to Pangboche, one of the oldest settlements in the Khumbu region, known for its renowned monastery.

From Pangboche, the path gradually ascends towards Dingboche, located at an altitude of 4,410 meters, and surrounded by stunning mountain peaks offering awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas. Dingboche is a favoured stopover for trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude before continuing their journey towards Everest Base Camp. 

Starting from Dingboche, the path ascends continuously towards Lobuche village, which is located at an elevation of 4,910 meters. The journey from Dingboche to Lobuche is physically challenging and necessitates a high degree of physical fitness and stamina.

From Lobuche, the path proceeds towards Gorak Shep, which is the last hamlet before arriving at Everest Base Camp. The hike from Lobuche to Gorak Shep takes approximately 2-3 hours and is comparatively less difficult than the preceding days' trek. After arriving at Gorak Shep, one can ascend to Kala Patthar, a famous viewpoint that provides breathtaking vistas of Mount Everest and other peaks. Ultimately, the route leads to the final destination of Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,364 meters.

Unlike the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, wherein you would trek back to Lukla the same route you take on your way up, on this trek, you will descend to Lukla from Gorakshep on a helicopter. The Helicopter trup from Gorakshep to Lukla is rewarding with astounding Everest vista on all directions. You will have a eagle eye view of the Everest massifs on your way to Lukla. Right below you is nestled numerous Sherpa settlements that are sparsely distributed and the raging Imja river and Dudhkoshi river comes before your sight during the trip. The journey from Gorakshep to Lukla on Helicopter  takes about 20 minutes of flight time wherein you will savour the beauty of Everest Highland.

Itinerary

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative of Nepal Climbing Adventure  and transferred to your hotel. Our team of mountain experts will conduct a briefing for you pertaining to your trek. The rest of the duration is leisure for you to wander on your own.

Accommodation
Hotel

Take a scenic flight to Lukla and start your trek to Phakding. The flight from Kathmandu heads eastward after take off flying parallel to the northern Himalayan mountains. Landing at Lukla airport has been considered a thrill-some activity by most of the trekkers for its exotic location and inclined runway. It's a 45 minutes flight before you land.  The trail then  follows the Dudh Koshi river and descends before reaching Phakding where you will spend the night.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

Continue your trek to Namche Bazaar, the largest village in the Khumbu region. The trail passes through pine forests and offers stunning views of Mount Everest and other peaks.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

Spend a day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the altitude. You can take a hike to the Everest View Hotel, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

The trail from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche passes through rhododendron forests and offers stunning views of Mount Everest and other peaks. Visit the famous Tengboche monastery in the evening.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

The trek from Tengboche to Dingboche takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Overnight in Dingboche.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

Spend a day in Dingboche to acclimatize to the altitude. You can take a short hike to Nagarjun Hill for panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

The trek from Dingboche to Lobuche is physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness and stamina. The trail passes through beautiful mountain landscapes and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

The trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep is relatively easy compared to the previous days' trek. After reaching Gorak Shep, hike up to Everest Base Camp and enjoy the stunning views.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for panoramic views of Mount Everest and other peaks. After the hike, return to Gorak Shep and take a helicopter back to Lukla.

Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Guesthouse

Take a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu and spend the rest of the day exploring the city and shopping for souvenirs.

Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel

Due to experience of the past, we added a buffer day [contingency purposes) in the even your Lukla flight is delayed or cancelled. However, if everything runs smoothly and you still have this extra buffer day left then you can participate in some extension activities which can be arranged by Nepal Climbing Adventure on request. The optional activities may include visiting places/landmarks of your choice, adventure sports, shopping or anything you'd like etcetera. 

Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel

Depart Kathmandu for your onward destination.

Meal
Breakfast

What's Included?

  • All airport and hotel transfers
  • Welcome and farewell dinner
  • Flight between Kathmandu to Lukla and back
  • Helicoper ride from Gorakhshep to Lukla
  • Accommodation and meals during the whole of the trek
  • 3 nights in a 3 star hotel in Kathmandu
  • All necessary paper works and permits
  • Government and local taxes
  • An experienced English speaking trekking guide, assistant trek guide (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide), porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, food, lodging and all equipment.
  • A comprehensive medical kit

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal Visa fee(bring small denomination cash USD and two passport photographs)
  • International airfare
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Extra night accommodation apart from the schedule due to any reasons
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and in case of early return than the scheduled itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for travel guides or porters

FAQ's

Q: What is  Everest Base Camp Trek, Return to Lukla via Heli?

A: Everest Base Camp Trek, Return to Lukla via Heli is modified version of your classic Everest Base Camp Trek whereby you would trek from Lukla to EBC and descend back the same way on foot. However, with this trek, you will board a helicopter from Gorakshep and fly to Lukla directly shortening your trek to 12 days.

Q: How much does the Everest Base Camp Trek, Return to Lukla via Heli cost?

A: The cost of the trek can vary depending on the time of the year you choose for this trek. Usually, the cost incurred during the trek are constant but the accommodation you choose  while in Kathmandu and other amenities you choose during the trek (Single Supplement Room, Extra Porter, Snack, Drinks and other personal expenses) differs the cost factor.Generally, the trek can cost anywhere from $ XXXX to  $XXXX per person.

Q: Do I need to have previous trekking experience for this trek?

A: Having past experience with high altitude trekking is definetely helpful for this trek as you will know what to prepare for and what to expect. However, this trek is also suitable for beginners as we ascent to the Everest Base Camp with numerous stopovers in between. Also, there are 2 days set aside for acclimatization which will adapt you to higher elevation.

Q: When is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek, Return to Lukla via Heli?

A: During Spring and Autumn the weather is relatively stable with clear blue skies. The average temperature during Autumn in Nepal ranges from 19 °C to a minimum of 8°C whereas Spring temperature ranges from 25°C to -15°C in the night. This weather pattern remains similar in the Himalayan belt. The weather is dry and clear during the period. Hence, Autumn and Spring are the perfect weather time period for 

Q: What should I pack for the trek?

A: You should pack warm and comfortable clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a backpack, and other essentials like a, sunscreen, and sunglasses.. Please check our article: Essentials Packing List for Trekking in Nepal.

Q: Is altitude sickness a concern on the trek?

A: Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the trek, as you will be trekking at high altitudes. It's important to take proper precautions, such as acclimatising slowly and drinking plenty of water. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, or dizziness, it's important to inform your guide and seek medical attention if necessary.

Q: What is the accommodation like on the trek?

A: Accommodation on the trek is basic but comfortable, with teahouses or lodges along the way. You will have a private room with a bed and a shared bathroom. Some lodges may also have hot showers for an additional cost.

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Nepal?

A: Yes, you will need a visa to travel to Nepal. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport in Kathmandu or from a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country.

 

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