Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 12 Days

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Trip Facts

  • Duration 12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Transportation Private Vehicle, Domestic flight and Helicopter
  • Activity Trekking and Helicopter Ride
  • Best Season Feb - May and Sept- Dec
  • Group Size 2 - 16 People
  • Trip Start/End Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude 5545m/18,192ft

Highlights

  • Enjoy a panoramic helicopter flight from Gorekshep to Lukla 
  • The adventure begins at the airport, one of the most challenging in the world.
  • Explore the lively Sherpa city of Namche Bazaar in the Khumbu region.
  • Visit the ancient Tengboche Monastery, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views
  • Trek through this UNESCO-listed national park to see the diverse flora and fauna
  •  Khumbu Glacier on your way to Everest Base Camp.
  • Standing at the base of the world's tallest peak, Mt.Everest
  • Hike up to Kala Patthar for a close-up view of Everest and other Himalayan giants.
  • Mount Everest, Lhotse Nuptse Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks are visible.
  • Finish your trek by taking a thrilling flight back to Lukla. 

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Overview

Helicopter Trekking packages are a reliable and quick way to return from Everest Base Camp. Instead of walking, take a Helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Kathmandu/Lukla. These packages are ideal for travelers who are time-bound.

The Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return is a thrilling journey that efficiently and quickly reveals Himalayan beauty. This unique trip combines the best of both worlds - trekking through the Khumbu Region and exploring hidden gems via shared helicopter tours.

The Everest Base Camp trip begins with a scenic flight between Kathmandu and Lukla. The journey starts in the altitude zone above the Dudh Koshi River. The trail takes you up and down the valley, with sections of suspension bridges decorated by Buddhist prayer flags. After strenuous trekking, a helicopter return from the Everest Base Camp reduces the switchback downhill steps and saves you valuable time. Enjoy the trekking to EBC, and the helicopter ride back to Lukla and experience the thrill.

Everest Base Camp Trip with a helicopter return Trek surpasses your imagination of exploring the alpine Khumbu region's diversities of nature and culture. This adventurous Himalayan journey covers the major attractions of the alpine Sherpa valleys, flora, and fauna of the Sagarmatha National Park and offers breathtaking snowy pinnacles. The trip becomes much more enticing once you avoid all the downhill steps by taking a shared helicopter ride back from Kalapatthar to Lukla, which is beneficial to save your time and energy.

Trek to Everest Base Camp is rich with its unique culture and ethnicity. Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung are rich in spirituality and history, with many cultural monuments and monasteries. The Everest Base Camp Trail allows trekkers to acclimatize by hiking in the surrounding area. This helps them discover rich cultural facts. Cultural vibes inspire and motivate you to finish the journey to Everest Base Camp.

As you enter Sagarmatha National Park, the views of the grassy land and glacial terrain will amaze you. Mountain goats, preserved especially, often greet trekkers. The Himalayan scenery is a treat for wandering spirits with positive vibes. The rocky terrain is visible above 5000 meters as you cross the glacier. Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar can be seen on the other side. The sight of the humongous peaks such as Mount Everest (8,848,86 meters), Lhotse (8848.86 meters), Makalu (Ama Dablam), and other nearby summits is a truly overwhelming experience.

The best season for the Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return trip includes spring and autumn to witness the magical mountains and enticing surroundings. Often the days become warm and favorable to walking. However, these are quite crowded seasons. To customize the Helicopter for Everest Base Camp Trip and Return schedule, contact Adventure Club Trek. We operate the Trek with our professional team of guides and porters.

Adventure Club Trek also offers different Helicopter Treks and Tours as given by Everest Base Camp Heli Trek –7 Days and 8-day EBC Gokyo Lake Helicopter Trek for those who want to enjoy the Trek relaxing with comfort in the best hotels and tea houses in the mountain.

Why choose to walk when you can fly Back?

Everest Base Camp Trek now offers a helicopter return from Gorakshep to Lukla. Experiencing the Himalayas from above, and tracing the familiar route, adds a whole new extent to the journey. The aerial perspective of the majestic Himalayan range is nothing short of awe-inspiring, amplifying the significance of the Everest adventure. Following a night's rest in Lukla, where time can be spent leisurely and discovering the town's charm, the trek culminates in a helicopter flight to Kathmandu the next day, completing the Everest Base Camp experience in an exhilarating and memorable way.

When is the Best time for EBC Trek with Helicopter Return?

The best time for the Helicopter trek to Everest is from March to May and mid-September to the end of November. Most days during this time of year are clear, with fabulous views of peaks and Mt. Everest. March to May falls from spring to pre-summer when days are longer with enough sunlight for views to enjoy the mountain panorama. However, days can get windy and cloudy sometimes in the afternoon, even snow in higher elevations. Around this time, the hills are lively with wildflowers blooming with riots of colors, especially the Rhododendron (the national flower of Nepal). mid-September to the end of November is another best time for the Base Camp Tour as most days are clear with stunning views of the peak. However, the temperature can sometimes drop to the freezing point.

How Difficult is  EBC Trek with Helicopter Return

The Everest Base Camp Trek with a helicopter Return from Gorak Shep can be considered a moderate trek. Some travelers find it to be an easy trek. The only problem you will face is the high altitude. Everest Base Camp Trekking has the most increased accessibility, except for parts such as Tengboche, Thugla Pass, and Lobuche-Gorak Shep moraine trek along Khumbu Glacier. You'll be able to complete the Gorak Shep hike with our guides and two acclimatization breaks. You'll also fly back to Kathmandu or Lukla. You will get the best possible return on your Everest Trek.


Accommodation on 12-Day EBC Trek with Helicopter Return 

Adventure Club Trek will provide the best tea house for your 12 Days on Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek. Up to Namche Bazaar, you'll receive a twin-sharing room with an attached bathroom. After Namche Bazaar, You'll be accommodated in neat, clean rooms where you can expect thoroughly washed bed sheets and pillowcases. You'll get clean blankets and cozy spaces for overnight accommodations.

Meals on 12-Day EBC Trek with Helicopter Return 

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return offers the best food at each Tea house. We will serve you delicious meals on this trek until Gorak Shep and back to Lukla on the last night of this trek in the Himalayas. You can enjoy Nepali and Western dishes for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Breakfast: Breakfast can include toast, bread, omelets, honey and butter, oatmeals, chapatis, muesli cereals, beans, coffee, tea, hot milk, or lemon ginger tea.

Lunch and Dinner: You can choose from various dishes for lunch and dinner, including dumplings with vegetables, fried rice with a tuna or omelet sauce, pizzas, burgers & sandwiches, steaks, Tenduk with cooked vegetables, and spaghetti.

Drinking-Water EBC Trek with Helicopter Return 

Adventure Club provides all the meals on the trek but needs to provide water. The best option is to treat the local water with chlorine/iodine tablets or a steripen. The tea houses will give you good quality free water and, you can also get along the trail but, you will need to treat it. If you are using the tablets, make sure they dissolve completely (about 30 mins). On most treks, you can buy mineral water along the trail. A liter of mineral water at lower-elevation tea houses costs around USD 1 but at higher elevations can cost up to $4, so the cost can add up.

Itinerary

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Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you will be welcomed by a representative from Adventure Club Trek. After sorting out your customs formalities (visa and so on), you will be transferred to your respective Hotel in Adventure Club Trek’s private vehicle. After resting at your Hotel, you will attend an orientation about your trek led by the trekking leader over a welcome dinner.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude1,300m/4,264ft

We start our trip early in the morning. So, we packed breakfast and drive to the domestic airport. You can have your breakfast while waiting for the flight. The 40-minute impressive Himalayan flight offers gigantic Himalayan views, scattered hillside settlements, and woods. Landing at the Lukla airstrip, meet the further crew (if you are in a group, the porters will join from Lukla  2800m/9184ft, pack the stuff, and embark on the trekking from the trail above the Dudh Koshi River. If you don't have breakfast at Kathmandu, then have breakfast at Lukla and begin the trek. The tempting Sherpa settlements, tingling yak bells, and picturesque landscape do not let you feel that you are already at the destination for today at Phakding. Overnight stay in Phakding.

Manthali to Lukla Flight (March, April, May, October, and November)

During peak seasons, such as March, April, May, October, and November, the flight to Lukla will be operated from Ramechhap/Manthali due to air traffic expansion. The Manthali/Ramechhap airport is about a 4 hours drive from Kathmandu. On this day, we wake up at 2:30 a.m., take an escorted shuttle to Manthali airport on a shared tourist vehicle, and board a 20-minute flight to Lukla.

Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December)

 The flight to Lukla is typically operated from Kathmandu during nonpeak seasons, which include January, February, June, July, August, September, and December. Please be aware that the decision regarding the operation of flights solely depends on the airline and is influenced by the volume of travelers during a specific month. On this day, we wake up at 5 to 6 a.m. Our staff will escort you to the domestic airport terminal in Kathmandu and board a 35-minute flight to Lukla.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2,651m/ 8700f

After breakfast, we begin the uphill journey after having breakfast at the hotel. En route, we cross some steel bridges with colorful prayer flags hanging on both sides of the bridges. Today, we officially enter the Sagarmatha National Park, which begins from Jorsalle, and check in our permits. Have lunch, take a short break, and proceed through the uphill trail to the horseshoe-shaped town of Namche Bazaar. Even the first glimpse of the roof of the world can be explored. Overnight stay in Namche Bazar.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3440m/11286ft

Acclimatization is essential for trekkers hiking to high elevations to get used to the climate and situation. For the speedy adjustment to the higher altitude, we walk to Syangboche and ascend to the Everest View Hotel, which is considered to be located at the highest place. From the hotel, we get a splendid view of the Himalayas; Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and others. After having tea or a coffee break, we gradually descend to the Sherpa villages of Khumjung, where we will have lunch. You may also visit the Khumjung Monastery. The legend has it that the monastery houses a Yeti’s scalp.

When we return to Namche, we may choose to relax or enjoy roaming about the town. You may visit the Sherpa museum to learn about the Sherpa culture and the history of mountaineering, or nearby Thame, a historic village. It is worth visiting the school established by Sir Edmond Hillary, the first person to climb Mt Everest. Overnight stay in Tengboche.

Note: Acclimatization is essential for adaptation to the thin air region, which usually begins above 2700 meters. It helps avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and strengthens your muscle.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3860m/12664ft

After breakfast, we set out the trek through the uphill route to the edge of this beautiful town. Breathing becomes easy after an acclimatization day, so the steady excursion proceeds further. Then the gentle trail begins from the edge, accompanied by the heart-fainting Ama Dablam peak. We stop for lunch at Phunki Tenga. Then we hike down to the Riverside, cross it, and climb straight uphill to Tengboche, a spiritually rewarded town. The tiredness will be refreshed by the cultural vibes and meditating force. Overnight stay in Namche Bazar.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3860m/12664ft

Good morning Tengboche. The sacred land offers good vibes that energize us for the journey today. It kicks off after breakfast with Debuche and continually with Milingo. The Dudh Koshi River valley looks impressive, and the trek leads to another culturally loaded town of Pangboche. It holds the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region and has the Yeti-Skull in the sanctuary. We stop at Syomare for lunch today. Having a rest for a while, we head towards Dingboche, a stone-walled Himalayan settlement. Overnight stay in Dingboche.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4410m/14468ft

We take another rest and acclimatization day at Dingboche on the trek to Everest base camp. The increasing level of thin air can make the journey quite challenging. After breakfast, we take a hike to Nagerjun Hill, located at 5100 meters altitude, bringing a day pack. It is a hike through the steep slope for more than three hours. The majestic peaks of Lobuche East, West, Taboche, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam can be explored during the hike.

Alternatively, Hike to Chhukung escorts to the gateway of the Island's peak climbing point. The hiking becomes fruitful, adjoined by the delighting Everest Himalayan peaks, and back to Dingboche and rest. Overnight at the hotel.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5100m/16,732ft

The impressive landscape and the soaring altitude foreshadow the mythical journey ahead of Dingboche after having breakfast. It matters a lot to unfold abundant adventure tales on the trip. The continual uphill route takes about 2.5-3 hours to cross the Dugh La Pass, where we walk steadily and drink plenty of water. On the way, the memorials on the alpine terrain of Everest summiteers who have given their lives during the expedition make you feel proud of their effort and dare to defend the ultra-challenge. Having lunch on the way, we trek further to our destination today, Lobuche. Overnight stay in Lobuche.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4910m/16,108ft

Wow, a long way to go and many attractions to explore on today's trekking. With respecting the technical route, we embark after having breakfast. Crawling gradually through the rocky terrain and glacial trail, we reach Gorakshep at lunchtime. The beautiful town of Gorakshep offers lodging and food around 5000 meters altitude, which is also the last human-populated area. Having lunch, we leave our backpacks and hike to the Everest base camp (5364m/17,270ft). It's genuinely demanding and tiresome due to the altitude, but the incredible scenery of the world's tallest peak-Mt. Everest quenches your thirst to approach this giant peak from a close point. The back-and-forth trek from Gorakshep is about 4 hours, and after spending nearly 30-45 minutes taking group pictures, we hike down to Gorakshep and rest. Overnight stay in Gorekshep.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5,160m/16,929ft

This morning we will begin to hike to Kalapatthar(5545m/18,192ft) early in the morning. The trail is short; however, with the soaring altitude above 5000 meters, the excursion becomes arduous. Kalapatthar is located at 5545 meters above sea level, which offers 360-degree Himalayan views and the sunrise scenery over the snow-covered Himalayas. Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and the surrounding peaks blaze breathtakingly once the sunrays kiss their summits.

From Gorakshep, we share a helicopter and fly back to Lukla, exploring the picturesque Khumbu region from a different angle. We can also manage a private charter flight, but you need to cover the extra cost, which is a fabulous and luxurious return trip. The trip saves time and relieves you from all the way downhill steps. Overnight stay in Lukla,

Note: The helicopter flight is on a sharing basis. It’s not a private charter flight. If you want a private ride, please contact us for the price. Please note that in altitudes above 4,500 meters, the helicopters can land but can’t take off with more than 3 passengers. So, if there are more than 3 people, the helicopter will take 3 people in the first shuttle and drop them off at a designated point below 4,500 meters. The fact is usually the village of Pheriche. Then, in the second shuttle, the helicopter will transfer the remaining passengers from Gorakshep; it will stop at the designated point to pick up the first three passengers and take all of them to Lukla. The helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Lukla takes about 15 to 25 minutes depending on the weather and the number of passengers.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2800m/9184ft

It's time to bid farewell to this magical town of Lukla. The snowy pinnacles entice us once more before landing at the domestic airport in Kathmandu. After you land, we will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. As most of the flight operations will be in the morning, you will get the whole day for your business-like shopping, massage, and other. We meet in the evening for the farewell dinner and share your thoughts about the trip. Overnight at the hotel.

Note: In case of a flight delay, either you will have to stay in Lukla until the weather becomes apparent, or you can take a helicopter ride. In case of maintenance of a domestic airport in Kathmandu, you may have to fly from Lukla to Manthali Airport and drive further to Kathmandu. The 4 to 5-hour drive may extend due to traffic congestion.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, and Farewell Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude1,300m/4,264ft

Our  Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 12 Day sends here. A representative from the Adventure Club Trek will accompany you and see you off at Tribhuvan International airport a few hours before the scheduled flight to your home.

Note: If you still have a few days after the trekking schedule, you might be interested to experience other adventurous activities like jungle safari,Rafting,Bungee jumping, and paragliding. You may contact the Adventure Club Trek for the arrangement.

  • MealsBreakfast.

Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern while traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary. However, we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline, and illness or injury can occur. To avoid dangerous situations, we may occasionally change the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That being said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

Trip Map

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 12 Days map

Cost Details

Price Includes

  • Arrival and departure transfer by private tourist vehicle
  • Standard twin-sharing Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast as per the Itinerary.
  • Best available twin-sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek. 
  • All meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Government-licensed, English-speaking guides trained in wilderness first aid
  • Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu and Lukla, including airport departure tax
  • Shared Helicopter rides from Gorekshep to Lukla.
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the Itinerary
  • Welcome and farewell dinner.
  • Everest National Park permits, and TIMS permits for trekking.
  • Assistant trekking guides walk with the group to support as necessary.
  • Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Staff costs include their salary, food, accommodation, domestic airfare, and medicine.
  • Insurance covering all staff and porters as per state law
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag ( to be returned after trip completion) 
  • Complimentary Adventure Club Trek T-shirt and trekking map
  • Duffel bag for trekking 
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • Travel and rescue arrangement
  • All government and local taxes.

Price Excludes

  • Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days and USD 50 for 30 days, and US$125 for 90 days)
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu.
  • Insurance with helicopter evacuation.
  • International air fares/flights (fares and flights can be arranged upon request).
  • Personal expenses (alcoholic drinks, bottled water, cold drinks).
  • Personal trekking equipment.
  • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected but not mandatory).

Date & Prices

     
Start DateStart: MondayApril 29, 2024End DateEnd: FridayMay 10, 2024StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $2699

The Published dates are guaranteed departures. If you need a different date than the scheduled dates, we will be happy to create our trips to suit your needs. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for, and our travel experts will help customize your dream destination.

Useful Info

Kathmandu- Lukla- Kathmandu flight Delay Info:

The weather in mountain areas can be unpredictable, affecting flights to and from Lukla. When the weather is good, the Twin Otter planes are reliable. However, flights may be delayed or canceled due to bad weather or technical issues. We can arrange a helicopter to ensure you stay on schedule in case of flight cancellations or long delays. Helicopters can fly in lower visibility than Twin Otters, meeting the Nepal Civil Aviation rules. You can pay for the helicopter flight in US dollars, credit cards, or traveler’s cheques at our Kathmandu office. We provide a receipt for reimbursement from your travel insurance company. The cost for the helicopter flight is $500 per person, or you can opt for a Helicopter Charter at a rate of $3000. We recommend arriving in Kathmandu one day before the trek to allow time for purchasing trekking gear and adjusting to the time difference. Additionally, allocating extra days after the tour will help minimize the risk of missing your international flight in case of any trekking difficulties or flight cancellations caused by severe weather conditions in Lukla.

Acclimatization And High-Altitude Sickness

The acclimatization planned during the trip helps trekkers adapt to the environment with less oxygen. Our body needs time to adjust to higher altitudes. Rushing to the higher elevation without acclimatization may result in acute mountain sickness (AMS), which could be fatal. The trekkers may suffer from AMS above 2,400m/7,875ft as the amount of oxygen becomes less and less with the increase in elevation.

We can categorize AMS into three categories with its symptoms. The trekker suffering from normal AMS feels giddy, gets headaches, has Nausea, and is out of breath, and is suggested not to worry as it disappears after the body gets used to less oxygen. Likewise, trekkers suffering from mild AMS show symptoms of dizziness, muscular pain, insomnia, headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Mild AMS can be treated with anti-headache medicines.

A person suffering from serious AMS shows heightened symptoms, including shortness of breath, even while resting. The trekker with serious symptoms can barely walk, and fluids may start building up in the lungs. The trekker having serious AMS has to be taken to a lower altitude immediately.

 

Advanced cases of AMS

If AMS is not treated in time, it can be life-threatening and lead to edema, a condition in which fluid accumulates in the body's tissues. Following are the two serious altitude sicknesses caused at high altitudes.

 

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)

In HACE, the brain gets swollen, leading to coma and even death. Its symptoms are paralysis on one side of the body, bladder dysfunction, fatigue, bowel dysfunction, loss of coordination, and confusion. Descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible to prevent the worsening of the condition.

 

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

Fluid accumulates in the lungs, which also increases the capillary pressure. Its symptoms include severe shortness of breath at rest, dry cough that produces pink frothy sputum, and fatigue. Important Note: Severe cases of AMS are rare. All our guides at the Adventure Club Trek are aware of the symptoms of AMS and can handle it with care. We prioritize acclimatization, talk about the use of Diamox beforehand, and counsel all our trekkers on the risk and preventive factors before and during the trip. Your safety is our main concern.

 

First-Aid Kit

Our guides and porters are equipped with a basic first-aid kit during regular treks. For expeditions that take on isolated and off-the-beaten trekking paths, a comprehensive first-aid kit is compulsory; the same goes for climbing expeditions.

  • A bandage in case of sprains.
  • Plasters/ Band-aids and antiseptic ointments for simple cuts
  • Iodine or water filter (optional) instead of buying bottled mineral water
  • Moleskin/Second skin in case of blisters.
  • Aspirin/Paracetamol -painkiller.
  • Oral rehydration salts-Nava Jeevan or Jeevan Jal (orange-flavored ORS)
  • The broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxacin).
  • Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic).
  • Diarrheal stopper (Imodium - optional).
  • Diamox 250/500mg (for altitude sickness).
  • Gel hand cleaner/sanitizer.

Note: We can add medical supplies per the trekkers' unique needs to the first-aid kit given above.

Equipment And Packing List

We recommend that you bring the items to the list below. If your trek is longer or shorter than that, appropriate adjustments can be made to reflect the specific requirements, season, and length of the trip. Adventure Club Trek will provide the items marked with an asterisk (*) at no additional cost. You are welcome to use such articles if you already have them and prefer your own. Many trekking items can be bought cheaply in the Thamel neighborhood of Kathmandu; quality will vary, with the imported from China often being of higher quality. There are also several high-end shops in Kathmandu which carry well-known brands. Since our porters will take your pack, please remember the weight limitation is 15kg (33 lbs since there is nothing there but some prayer flags. Also, please note that you still need to send me a gear list.

* The Adventure Club Trek will lend each trekker a set of down Jackets, sleeping bags,s and duffle bags.

* Our main guide, trained in wilderness first aid, will carry a comprehensive medical kit.

 

Important Documents and Items

  • Valid passport, 2 extra passport-size photos, airline tickets.
  • Dollars, pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepali visa at Kathmandu airport, paying for restaurants and hotels, gratuities, snacks, and buying your own drinks and gifts.
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc

 HEAD

  • A bandana or headscarf is also useful in dusty conditions.
  • Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Prescription sunglasses (if required)

UPPER BODY

  • Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
  • Light and expedition-weight thermal tops
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and jacket *
  • Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable

LOWER BODY

  •  Non-cotton underwear briefs
  • 1 pair of Hiking shorts
  • 1 pair of hiking trousers
  • 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers
  • 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric

FEET

  • 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
  • 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
  • 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, "broken-in")
  • 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and sandals
  • Cotton socks (optional)
  • Gaiters (winter only), optional, "low" ankle high version

HANDS

  • 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
  • 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
  • 1 pair of mittens, consisting of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)

TOILETRIES

  • 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Female hygiene products
  • Small mirror
  • Personal Hygiene
  • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  • Tissue /toilet roll
  • Anti-bacterial handwash

SLEEPING

  • One sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)*
  • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • Rucksack and Travel Bags
  • 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
  • 1 large duffel bag *
  • A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables should have good shoulder padding
  • Small padlocks for duffel-kit bags
  • 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)

MEDICAL

  • Small, personal first-aid kit. (Simple and light)
  • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
  • Anti-diarrhea pills
  • Anti-headache pills
  • Cough and cold medicine
  • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetylpolyamine
  • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills, as they are respiratory depressants.
  • Water purification tablets or the water filter
  •  Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
  • Extras/Luxuries
  • Reading book
  • Trail map/guidebook
  • Journal and pen
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
  • Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)

Visa And Entry Procedures

Everyone needs a visa to enter Nepal except Indian nationals. Citizens of the SAARC nations like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Bhutan do not require a permit for 30 days. Fortunately, getting a Nepal visa is an easy process. Tourist visas are issued on arrival at the international airport and official overland entry points. However, travelers from Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Liberia have yet to be issued visas on arrival. After you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will find electronic kiosks to assist with your visa processing. After taking the completed form and paying the visa fee, you must stay in the long immigration queue for your visa on arrival.

Visitors can now apply for the online visa within 15 days of their arrival date in Nepal. For this, you will need your Nepal hotel address and a digital passport-sized photo that needs to be uploaded to the online application. After submitting the form online, you need to print out the confirmation page, which has to be furnished at the immigration section in Kathmandu airport, along with your passport and the required visa fee. 

Tourists can also apply for a Nepali visa at the local Nepali Embassy or Consulate in their respective countries. Or, they can even mail their visa application to the visa office near their location, but well ahead of time to allow sufficient processing time. Nepal visa information for all categories of travelers and their correspondence cost can be convenient for more information and contact details of the Nepali Embassies and Consulate worldwide.

Whichever way you enter Nepal, you will be given a 15/30/90-day visa as per your requirement. The general Nepal tourist visa fee on arrival for multiple entries is:

15 days – US$30, 30 days – US$50, and 90days – US$125

Tourist visas can be extended for a maximum of 150 days a year, and these extensions are granted only at the Department of Immigration offices in Pokhara and Kathmandu. For more information on Nepal visas, visit our visa information page.

 

Our Trekking Guides/Leaders 

Here at Adventure Club, our staff is like family. We only use locals to support their communities, and we train our staff rigorously to be the best they can be – for you! 

  •  Full first-aid training
  • Guide Training (trekking)
  • English and other common languages (as requested) 
  • Village and Land Conservation 
  • Mountaineering (for specialty expeditions or climbing treks)

All our guides are carefully trained for leadership, as good leadership is vital for your trek to be enjoyable, safe, and successful. Most of our guides grew up in Sherpa country or other mountainous parts of Nepal. Their pride in their region shows itself in the way they lead treks and interface with you. 

Porters Care

Courtesy and respect are fundamental for an enjoyable and worthwhile experience on any team. Our porters are an essential, integral part of each trekking team; as such, they are well-treated and well-paid. After your trek, you will find that they have fully earned your gratitude and respect. We expect all trekkers to keep their baggage weight under 22kgs/40lbs. Adventure Club Trek maintains a full commitment to the rights of our porters, providing them with appropriate clothing, gear, and lodging. In case of serious accident or sickness, they receive the same care as anyone else employed on the trekking team, even including evacuation by helicopter at our expense if appropriate. We fully support the IPPG (International Porter Protection Group), which strives to maintain and improve our porter's working conditions.

Travel Insurance

To be adequately protected in terms of insurance, you will need specialist travel insurance for participation in hazardous activities. A travel insurance policy that covers helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, injury, death, lost baggage, theft, liability, medical treatment, and expenses is strongly recommended. Ensure the insurance covers all the activities you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal, such as trekking and climbing. If you are injured and unable to travel, you can ask for a rescue helicopter from a remote area only if you have definite proof you can pay for it. Adventure Club Trek has an agreement in Kathmandu that guarantees payment for helicopter evacuations. They produce a cash deposit to the helicopter operator and collect the money from you once you have been rescued. Be sure your policy specifically covers mountaineering or alpinism, or you may need help to settle a claim.

Electricity, WIFI, and Battery Recharge

During your trek on the Everest region, electricity is available to recharge your phones, laptops, and iPads from micro-hydropower and solar panels on a paying basis. As for Wi-Fi, there are no hotspots along the trekking trail after Namche. The only two places offering free Wi-Fi are Starbucks Coffee in Lukla and Everest Bakery in Namche. At other places, you need to pay for internet services, which increases gradually with the altitude.

Communication On Trek 

On the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return in Nepal, the internet service will be available at lodges with some extra service charge. You can contact your family and friends from the guesthouses, but as we reach high altitude, the communication will be through the phone for safety purposes. We communicate with all our valuable clients through the team leader at least once daily to ensure you are fine and enjoying the trip. The Adventure Club Trek office in Kathmandu will constantly contact you for help you may need during the trek. Depending on the network you use, there could be a poor signal to the network before the high altitude. Upon your request, we can provide you with a separate local SIM card for a better network. Many places have WIFI service available at an extra cost.

Group Size and Team Composition 

We always form a small group of like-minded people to give them a wonderful and wise travel experience. It provides opportunities to interact and share in a fun-filled environment when out in the wilderness. Generally, our travel group comprises a maximum of 16 members. We need at least two participants to run our fixed departure dates. For private trips, the number of group members does not apply. We always strive to form a team, ensuring that the members are comfortable with one another.

Tipping 

Tipping is optional in Nepal, as most services include a service charge. However, if you want to express your gratitude, you are free to tip drivers and hotel staff. People usually welcome such generosity. When listing your porters or trekking leaders, use your discretion as per the quality of the services. Tip money does not form a part of our employees' wages. However, you can use tipping to show appreciation for excellent service at the end of the trip.

FAQs

  • Q1. How difficult is Everest base camp helicopter Trek?

    The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek is a moderate adventure journey. The Everest Base Camp is at the height of 5364m/17594ft. It can be physically demanding as the trail goes uphill and downhill. Anyone with a good physique and good mental health can do this trek. It does not require to be an expert in mountaineering for doing this trek. During the trekking, you will be walking about 5- 6 hours every day and a maximum of 8 hours on some other days.

  • Representatives from the Adventure Club Trek will receive you with a warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport, the sole international airport in Nepal.

  • The Adventure Club Trek has qualified and certified guides who have fluent English speaking. Most of the porters understand basic English, but do not speak it.

  • Yes, make sure to have both medical and evacuation insurance before coming to Nepal for the Everest Base Camp trekking. You should be careful in choosing a policy while traveling to a Himalayan country like Nepal as some insurance companies may make special exceptions for adventure travel. If you are confused about the insurance, please inform us and we will help you. It is usually better to arrange your insurance in your country before you travel.

  • During the peak season time which falls during the months between September to November and March and May, the weather on the trek is pretty good with clear blue skies and stunning mountain views. Like any other trek in Nepal, the weather varies differently during different seasons. Temperatures during the spring season, i.e. March and May range from 7.5 to 13ºC (45.5 to 55.4ºF) during the day and the night temperature ranges between 1.5 to 6.5ºC (34.7 to 43.7ºF). Similarly, temperatures during the fall ranges between 5.6 to 13ºC (42.1 to 55.4ºF) during the day and the night temperature ranges between 0 to 8.6ºC (32 to 47.5ºF).

  • Yes, our guides are well trained and qualified with fluent English. Some of them have also conversational skills in other European languages.

  • Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Nepal, but during the Everest Base Camp, the credit cards are accepted only in Namche Bazaar.

  • Since there is no ATM in the mountain region past Namche Bazaar, you will need a total of US Dollar 100 to 150 for bottled water, boiled water, toilet paper, showers, electronic device charging, purchasing souvenirs and for optional tips offerings.

  • You can pay the balance with a credit card or in cash (we accept all major currencies) before making the departure on the trek. This is to inform you that we charge 3.5% fee for credit card payments. So, it’s up to you to choose the modes of payment.

  • Certainly, that is possible. You may consult with us in advance on how this might be arranged and we will do our best to find a good solution.

  • Yes, tea houses have electricity in common areas. They do charge an extra fee of Rs 100 Up to Tengboche for charging the battery of a device. Moreover, there are solar panel in the tea houses in higher altitudes above Tengboche which charge Rs 200 to 400.

  • Yes, most of our departures sell out during the peak seasons but during the off-season, we generally have smaller groups. We guarantee all departures. Once you make the deposit, we will certainly organize the trek for you. Your departure can also be scheduled.

  • Your gear will be divided into two packs — you will carry your daypack every day during the trek while your duffle bag will be carried between tea houses by porters. All extra luggage can be left at the hotel before you begin your trek. Every morning, your porters will carry your duffle bag to the next tea house. It will be difficult to assess your gear from your duffle bag until the evening when you arrive at the next tea house. That is to say, you will have to include the gears that you use on daily basis into your day pack. You may keep your daypack as light as possible to make trekking easier. We advise you to carry the essentials including water, snacks, poncho, headlamp, camera, sunscreen lotion etc.

  • It is sometimes the case that trekkers finish ahead of schedule or they end up stopping the trek early for health or personal reasons. If this is the case, please understand that we cannot offer any refunds for unused days on the trek. Please understand that our costs are the same as we have an obligation to pay our guides and porters for the time they have committed.

  • We will lend you the sleeping bags and down jackets which will be enough for you. But if you want extra, you may get them at a rent of US Dollar 2 per day.

  • The coldest temperatures of the year starts from mid-December till the end of January with an average temperature of (-17C/1.4F). The average temperature at the Everest Base camp fluctuates during the spring, but nights are still cold and chilly.

  • Certainly, you will get extra hotel nights, but it is not included in the cost paid for the trek.

  • The best time to visit Everest Base Camp depends on what kind of activities you hope to do.

    Spring (March-May) or fall (October-November) is a suitable time for trekking. The weather remains favorable with clear skies, little-to-no rain, and less chance of problematic snowfall. The trails are the busiest with flocked travelers during the Spring and Autumn.

    Although the monsoon season (June to early September) is not an ideal time to travel to EBC due to wet weather and muddy conditions that can lead to landslides on trails, the temperatures remain warmer. If you do not mind getting a bit wet trekking can be done on this route as the higher you go in altitude, there will be less rain. You can also do trekking in the winter. you will get crystal-clear views of mountains despite extremely cold weather. You will need to be well prepared for freezing conditions. A helicopter tour can be done any time except for monsoon season.

  • We advise you to arrive in Kathmandu at least a day before we start the trek. You will have enough time to buy trekking gears and beat off the jet lag. Having a few days extra left after your trek is also an excellent way to ensure you don’t miss your international flight in case of any difficulty during the trek which might lengthen your trip. Keeping a few extra days gives you a way to cope with the flight cancellation to or from Lukla in case of severe weather.

  • The foods provided during the trek are healthy. We provide you with breakfast and dinner at tea-houses or lodges where we spend night and lunch at other tea-houses on the way. You can choose from varieties of Nepali, Continental, Tibetan and Indian cuisines. Locally produced organic food and seasonable fruits are kept on priority.

    In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in 3-star standard hotel while during the trek, there is basic accommodation available on a twin-shared basis. There will be a common restroom for one floor in the tea-house. However, a single supplement can be served on your request if there is single room available. However, take note that it cannot be guaranteed during the peak season for trekking. At lowland single rooms are available, however, they cannot be found easily at higher altitude.

  • We arrange Three-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu for your luxurious stay at your specified location. They are hygienic and offer amazing space to relax. On the trekking, we arrange your accommodation in the best available mountain lodges. Of course, many of them will not be luxurious as in the cities, but they are clean, have spacious warm dining halls, private beds, and towels. Even hot showers are available in every lodge. But, you may not get a private attached toilet. On group trekking, if you need a single supplement, you need to cover the extra charge.

  • Generally, two seasons are mentioned as the best seasons for trekking and tour in the Everest region. However, if you have a helicopter ride tour option above the Namche Bazaar, winter is another wonderful time to enjoy the Everest Base Camp Helicopter trek and tour.

    Spring:

    Spring is an ideal season for trekking activities in the Everest region. It is the first season of the year which welcomes thousands of trekkers on the Everest trekking trails. The magnificent temperature with warmer walking days allows trekkers to enjoy the trip. However, nights are cold even in spring.

    Autumn/Fall:

    The autumn season is just an incredible time to hike in the Khumbu region. The days are warmer but slightly colder than the spring season. During the night, the temperature falls to the ground level and also to minus. But the accommodation on Everest Base Camp Gokyo lakes helicopter trek/tour, you sleep at 3440 meters as highest altitude, which releases you from worrying about colder nights. But the weather allows exclusive Himalayan views of the Everest region peaks and land at Kalapatthar and the Gokyo Lake.

    Winter:

    Winter is an excellent time to get impressive views and trek with less crowd. Trekking all the way to Everest base camp will be ultra-challenging in winter, but trekking up to Namche Bazaar is great in winter. Taking a helicopter riding tour from Namche Bazaar, the snowy landscape around the alpine Khumbu valleys and the breathtaking Himalayan views of the Everest chain surpasses your imagination.

  • You don’t need to have any previous experience for this trek and tour. This trip is a mixed form of trekking and helicopter ride tour. Therefore, having moderate physical fitness supports for a trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar. If you are prepared with some sorts of fitness, hiking, and outdoor activities, that will be excellent.

  • Our group size ranges from individual trekkers to large groups. But, to make it easy, we customize a group with 12 people, which makes the trekking easy going with the services. However, we also accept the group exceeding 12 people. But the helicopter tour should be divided with 5 people up to 4000 meters and above it, there will be 3 people in each ride.

  • Due to adverse weather conditions or other technical issues, flights may get canceled or delayed to and from Lukla. In such a case, we can rebook your flight for the next day. In order to deal with such an unpredictable situation (adverse weather conditions, flight delays), we recommend you prepare and schedule a couple of extra days for the trek.

    Alternatively, there is an option to charter a private helicopter to ensure you do not miss the deadline for the trekking or the scheduled international flight. The helicopter takes 4 to 5 passengers at a time. A chartered helicopter flight will cost an extra USD 2,500. On a sharing basis, it costs USD 500 per person. The trekkers will have to bear and share the cost of the trekking guide also for the helicopter ride. The price is applicable during emergencies.

    As there are a limited number of helicopters that are also engaged in other activities in the mountains, you will have to be in a queue to get the helicopter flight. The possibility to get the helicopter flight at the requested time is less. So, earlier you book the flight, earlier your turn comes to get the helicopter flight. (Case: Trekkers are liable to the post-trek expenses)

  • We provide boiled water during the trek. With the theme of eco trekking, we do not recommend using plastic-made bottles, therefore, you need to bring a water bottle to fill up the boiled water.

  • You should bring only the items that you will use during the trek. The main pack or the duffle bag provided by the Adventure Club Trek should weigh no more than 10kg/22 lbs which will be carried by porters. We advise you to bring some dry bags inside your duffle bag in order to pack wet clothes, shoes, dirty clothes, etc. There will be one porter to carry two trekkers' main packs during the trek. Apart from this, you should also carry a daypack that weighs about 5kg (11lbs)

  • Yes, all of our staff at the Adventure Club Trek are insured against sickness and injury.

  • We operate both, the group joining and private trekking in Everest and helicopter ride tours. To assure your date, please, have a look at our fixed departure dates. For a private trip, we can customize our itinerary, which makes you convenient with an easy-going schedule. You can get more information with a quick contact with us.

  • Adventure Club Trek prioritizes the safety of our clients. We provide professional guides and porters. They bring a first aid kit along to respond to the primary treatment in case of necessity. We emphasize acclimatization, which makes it easy to adapt to the high altitude. There will be a supplementary oxygen system in the helicopter as this trip is a combined form of a trek with a helicopter tour.

  • operate the trek with our guide and porters (1 porter is provided for 2 trekkers). It avoids the burden of carrying your stuff during trekking. However, you will be carrying the day pack with your essential stuff like a water bottle, camera, and other miscellaneous items that are significant to you.

Reviews

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  • Afaaf S
    Afaaf SUnited StatesDate: April 27, 2017

    Amazing Everest Base Camp trek!

    We booked a guide and porter with Adventure Club after a friend recommended them to us after a trip last year and we were not disappointed. Everything was taken care of, from the flights to the meals to the transportation to and from locations.

    Prakash was a phenomenal guide! Made us feel like we were in control of the pace, taught us about the local culture, and took care of any issues before they arose.

    We loved our experience and would recommend it to anyone!

  • Claire
    ClaireUnited KingdomDate: May 15, 2015

    Fantastic Guides

    A group of ten of us went to Everest Base Camp with Adventure Club in April and it was such a great experience. I mean, the base camp trek is always going to be great regardless of how you get there but for us, it was Sonam, Bhim, and Kali, our guides, who made it incredible. I felt so looked after and they were fun, friendly, and really patient with all of us. By the time we got to where we were staying for the night our rooms were already booked and we just had to sit down and order food. No hassle at all.

    The porters were great too and they only carry two bags which, for me, is really important. We saw too many porters carrying way too much weight on this trek and it means a lot to me that Adventure Club treat their porters fairly.

    Our flight to Lukla was canceled twice due to weather and Birendra made sure we were taken back to our hotel safely, got our flights rebooked, and made sure we were picked up on time in the morning. He dealt with everything, we didn't have to lift a finger. Absolute professional.

    All in all, it's a brilliant company that will look after you from start to finish. All you have to do is show up and walk.

All Inclusive PriceUS $2699(per person)
Show group price
No. of peoplePrice P/P
1 - 1 PaxUS $2699
2 - 2 PaxUS $2189
3 - 6 PaxUS $1865
7 - 11 PaxUS $1685
12 - 16 PaxUS $1479
Total PriceUS $2699

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