Safety update: our trekking groups are safe, and our routes are running as planned. Read full flood notice.
Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return – 9 Days
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Quick Information
|
Weather |
Weather | -15°C to 18°C | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Duration |
Duration | 9 Days | |
|
Difficulty |
Difficulty | Moderate | View Difficulty Detail |
|
Accommodation |
Accommodation | Lodges | |
|
Meals Included |
Meals Included | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | |
|
Best Season |
Best Season | Sept, Oct, Nov, March, April, May | |
|
Transportation |
Transportation | Flight + Helicopter | |
|
Daily Activity |
Daily Activity | Approx. 5 – 6 hours | |
|
Religion |
Religion | Buddhism | |
|
Ethnic People |
Ethnic People | Sherpa, Rai | |
|
Geographic Terrain |
Geographic Terrain | Mountain, Forest, Village, Glacier | |
|
Region of Nepal |
Region of Nepal | Everest Region, Khumbu | |
|
Max. Altitude |
Max. Altitude | 5364m./17701ft. |
9 Days Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return adventure includes the classic trek to Everest Base Camp with the luxury of a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu. Traverse the magical land of Khumbu Valley and its riches on the Everest Base Camp Trek. The trek is a glorious trip across the Sagarmatha National Park, one of Nepal’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Likewise, the cultural richness of the ethnic Sherpa people is equally alluring as well. All in all, this Trip is a perfect depiction of Nepal’s diversity in nature and culture.
Safety is prioritized, and acclimatization days are included to mitigate the risk of altitude sickness. The best seasons for this trek are autumn and spring. Moderate physical fitness and travel insurance covering medical emergencies and helicopter evacuation are required. Accommodations are in teahouses and hotels, and meals include a variety of Nepali, Asian, and Continental dishes. Communication facilities like mobile networks and Wi-Fi are available along the route. This trek is ideal for those seeking an immersive Himalayan experience with the added convenience of a helicopter return.
Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return Highlights
- Explore the Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Glacier, and Icefall.
- Enjoy the trek across the Sagarmatha National Park.
- Visit the various Sherpa villages like Tengboche, Thukla, and Lobuche
- Relish the panorama of the Everest Himalayas, including Mt. Everest (8848m), Lobuche (8516m), and Cho Oyu (8188m).
- Spectacular mountain views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
- Reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp.
- Sunrise trek to Kala Patthar for panoramic views.
- Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
- Helicopter ride back to Kathmandu with aerial Himalayan views.
- Comfortable teahouse stays along the route.
- Visits to ancient monasteries and trails with prayer flags.
- Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar with its vibrant markets and cafes.
- Altitude: Reaches 5,364 meters at Everest Base Camp, requiring acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.
- Distance and Duration: Covers about 130 kilometers over 10-14 days, with daily walks of 5-8 hours.
- Terrain: Varied terrain includes rugged paths, steep ascents and descents, and river crossings.
- Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures and the possibility of snowfall.
- Physical Fitness: Requires good cardiovascular fitness and strength, with training recommended before the trek.
- Technical Skills: No technical climbing skills are required, but comfort with rugged terrain is essential.
- Support: Hiring guides and porters can enhance the experience and assist with safety.
- Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is essential.
- Reward: Despite challenges, it offers breathtaking scenery and a rewarding adventure.
9 Days Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Itinerary
Day 1
Fly to Lukla – Trek to Phakding
|
Trekking Time Average |
8km Uphill hike (Avg. 3hrs) |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
Khumbu Traveler’s Guest House or Hotel Sherpa |
|
Altitude |
(2650m./8745 ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
The Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter returns trip begins in Kathmandu. The day starts relatively early as you pack your bags and drive to Tribhuvan International Airport. Embark on a domestic flight to Lukla. The scenic half-hour-long flight takes you over the pristine forested hills and deep ravines towards Lukla. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy your breakfast and embark on the trek’s first day. Enjoy a scenic trek along the pristine Dudh Koshi River to Phakding village.
Day 2
Trek to Namche
|
Trekking Time Average |
14km. Uphill hike ( Avg. 05 hours) |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
Sun Shower Hotel or Khumbu Lodge |
|
Altitude |
(3440m./11352ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After breakfast, you will begin your trek to Namche Bazzar, one of the most famous towns in the Khumbu region. You first make your way to Monjo, a small town that is the entry point to the Sagarmatha National Park. Along this trail, you can view a variety of flora and fauna as you make your way past the forests of rhododendrons, pines, oaks, and deodars. You will make your way through small settlements such as Jorsalle along the way and cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. After trekking for about 5 hours, you will arrive at Namche Bazzar. Overnight in Namche Bazzar.
Day 3
Acclimatization / Excursion around
|
Trekking Time Average |
Excursion around |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
Sun Shower hotel or Hotel Khumbu |
|
Altitude |
(3440m./11352ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Today is a rest day; you can undertake a scenic tour around the village. Later, you will briefly hike to the Everest View Hotel, Khumjung and Khunde villages. After exploring Namche Bazaar, you’ll trek uphill for an hour to reach the Everest View Hotel. Have tea/coffee there, and then walk to Khumjung Monastery. A small Sherpa village of Khumjung is home to Khumjung Monastery, which has preserved the remains of Yeti, an abominable snowman. Walk past the scenic Syangboche Airport towards Khunde village. You will visit Tenzing Hospital at Khunde. You can see the equally beautiful Edmund Hillary School en route to Namche Bazaar.
Day 4
Trek to Debuche
|
Trekking Time Average |
15km Uphill Hike (Avg 6hrs) |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
Hotel Good Luck or Rivendell Lodge |
|
Altitude |
(3650m./12405ft. |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Leaving Namche Bazaar, you’ll begin trekking upstream along the Dudh Koshi River. A steep hike takes you towards Phunki Tenga village. The trail continues alongside the mesmerizing view of Ama Dablam (6856m) and climbs over 427 meters in altitude. Tengboche village is home to Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Everest Region. The 100-year-old monastery celebrates the history of Tibetan Buddhism. It also hosts the annual festival of Mani Rimdu in October. You will walk further descend to Debuche. Overnight in Debuche.
Day 5
Trek to Dingboche
|
Trekking Time Average |
11km Uphill Hike (Avg 5hrs) |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
Hotel Good Luck or Similiar category |
|
Altitude |
(4350m./14355ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Wake up to the beautiful view of Ama Dablam (6856m) in the east. After enjoying your breakfast, you’ll embark on the trek. Leaving Tengboche, you’ll begin trekking uphill along the Dudh Koshi River to reach Debuche village. You’ll leave the forested path behind and start climbing the rocky terrain. The trail drops to the pristine Imja Khola (River) and begins to rise again en route to Pangboche village. Walk past thousands of Mani stones en route to Shomare. The day ends at Dingboche village, a remote Sherpa village.
Day 6
Rest day – Acclimatization
|
Trekking Time Average |
Hiking Uphill 03 hrs |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
Hotel Good Luck or Similiar category |
|
Altitude |
(4350m./14355ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Today, you’ll spend the day acclimatizing at Dingboche. To better utilize this day, you can take an adventurous hike to the local Nangkartshang peak (5083m), named after the century-old Nangkartshang monastery. From the top, you can catch the natural sights of Mount Taboche (6367m), Ama Dablam (6856m), Island Peak (6189m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8463m.) and Mount Everest (8848m). Retrace your path back to Dingboche village overlooking the beautiful Mt. Amadablam (6856m). Overnight in Dingboche.
Day 7
Trek to Lobuche
|
Trekking Time Average |
8km Uphill Hike (Avg 4hrs) |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
National Park Hotel or Similiar category |
|
Altitude |
(4900m./16170ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Leaving Dingboche, you’ll begin climbing towards Lobuche village. The trail on this day’s trek goes past Pheriche and Thukla village. Leaving the quaint Pheriche village, you’ll start climbing towards Thukla, where you can see the Climber’s Memorial Park. The park, built in memory of climbers who lost their lives while climbing Mount Everest, remains the highlight of the region. Leaving Thukla, you’ll continue trekking uphill along the Lobuche Glacier towards Lobuche village. Overnight in Lobuche.
Day 8
Trek to Gorakshep – Excursion to EBC
|
Trekking Time Average |
02 hrs uphill hike to Gorakshep – 05 hrs round excursion hike to EBC |
|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
Hotel Himalaya Inn or Similiar category |
|
Altitude |
(5180m./17094ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Leaving Lobuche, you’ll begin climbing towards the remote Gorakshep village. The trail goes uphill along the Lobuche Glacier and Khumbu Glacier towards Gorakshep. After a brief rest, you’ll embark on a short excursion to the Everest Base Camp. The trail rises towards the east and goes along Khumbu Glacier towards Everest Base Camp. Enjoy the pristine sights of the climber’s base camp, Khumbu Glacier, and Khumbu Icefall from the base camp. A few of the mountains visible from the base camp are Pumo Ri (7165m), Lingtren (6749m), Khumbutse (6608m), and Nuptse Peak (7861m). Retrace your path and head back to Gorakshep for an overnight stay. Overnight in Gorakshep.
Day 9
Hike to Kala Pathar – Fly to Kathmandu by Helicopter.
|
Trekking Time Average |
04 hrs Up/Downhill hike to Kallapathar – 01:45 hrs fly to Kathmandu |
|---|---|
|
Altitude |
( 1295m./4729ft.) |
|
Included meals |
Breakfast |
You’ll wake up early as you embark on a short hike to Kala Patthar, the tourist landmark in the Everest Region. After the rigorous climb through the rocky moraine, you’ll arrive at the top from where you can catch the excellent view of Mount Everest (8848m), Nuptse (7861m), Lhotse (8516m), Khumbutse (6608m), Pumo Ri (7165m), and Ama Dablam (6856m) among many other mountains. Retrace your path and begin heading down to Gorakshep village. After breakfast, you will fly back to Kathmandu.
You will be invited to a farewell dinner courtesy of Nepal Alternative Treks at Nepali Cosine in the evening, followed by a cultural show.
What’s Included
- Pick Up at Tribhuwan International Airport and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu .
- Lodge (Twin share) accommodation during the trekking.
- All meals ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ) during trek.
- One experienced, well trained, fluent English speaking, friendly, specialized in Everest region and government authorized trekking guide
- 1 Porter per 2 Trekkers and keep luggage weight under 10kg per person.
- Guide and porter’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance and transportation etc.
- Kathmandu/ Lukla plane and fly back to Kathmandu by Heli.
- Sagarmatha National Park fee and Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry fee.
- Overland transportation as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A trekking map, duffel bag, first aid kit box, Oxygen saturation check up everyday, water purification and trekking completion certificate .
- Farwell dinner .
- Public Liability Insurance.
- Assistance for emergency rescue evacuation.
- All kind of service charges and government tax .
What’s Not included
- Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
- Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, mineral water, beer, hot shower, hot water, laundry, phone bill etc.
- Personal Travel insurance.
- International Flight Tickets.
- Nepal Tourist Visa Fee
- Tips for guide and porters .( Highly suggested).
Add-ons and Options
These add-ons make your classic Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return more complete, with arranged hotels, city and jungle tours, rafting, and easy access to rental gear.
While booking online, choose your trekking date, then scroll down on the checkout page and tick the extra services you’d like us to include.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (USD 40 per night for a double/twin-share room with breakfast): We can arrange comfortable hotel stays in the city before and after your trek, ensuring hassle-free arrival and departure.
- Tour to Pokhara (USD 30 per person for a full-day city tour): Relax by peaceful lakes, enjoy mountain views, and rest in a calm setting after your high-altitude adventure.
- Chitwan National Park Tour (USD 140 per person for 2 nights 3 days): Experience jungle safaris, canoe rides, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting for a refreshing lowland escape after the mountains.
- Rafting at Trishuli River (USD 45 per person): Enjoy a fun white-water rafting trip with exciting rapids, adding extra adventure to your journey’s end.
- Rental Gear: We provide easy-to-use trekking gear at the start of the trip, so you don’t have to bring heavy or extra equipment from home. Down jacket (USD 12), sleeping bag (USD 12), poles (USD 12), and crampons/spikes (USD 12).
- 1-hour Everest Scenic Flight (USD 300 per person): Enjoy a 1-hour mountain flight to see Everest and the Himalayan range from the air, with private airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu included. This is a scenic flight only with no landing.
Best season for Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return
-15°C to -6°C
-15°C to -5°C
-10°C to 0°C
-5°C to 4°C
0°C to 10°C
5°C to 15°C
7°C to 18°C
7°C to 18°C
5°C to 15°C
-5°C to 5°C
-10°C to -2°C
-15°C to -5°C
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times for the Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return. The weather is mild and stable, which makes it ideal for trekking. During this season, rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding vibrant landscape colors. Clear skies provide excellent visibility of the mountains, including Everest, making it perfect for photography and scenic views. However, spri g is also a popular trekking season, so that the trails can be busy with trekkers.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another prime season for the Everest Base Camp trek. Post-monsoon, the weather is generally clear and dry, with stable temperatures. Crystal-clear skies offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, ensuring a visually stunning trek. Like spring, autumn is also a popular time for trekking, so expect crowded trails. The favorable weather conditions make it a preferred choice for many trekkers.
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings cold temperatures and the possibility of snow, making the Everest Base Camp trek more challenging. However, those who brave the cold are rewarded with serene, less crowded trails and stunning, crisp views of the snow-covered mountains. The clear wine skies can offer excellent visibility, but trekkers need to be well-prepared for the harsh conditions.
Monsoon (June to August)
The monsoon season is characterized by heavy rains, slippery trails, and limited visibility due to clouds and fog. Trekking during this time is more complex and less popular due to the challenging conditions. However, the landscape is incredibly lush and green, with fewer trekkers on the trails. For those who don’t mind the rain and want to experience a quieter trek with vibrant greenery, the monsoon season offers a unique and different perspective of the Everest region.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Route Map
Join our group departures
Available dates.
Our scheduled group tours offer fixed departure dates, providing an excellent opportunity for travelers to join our small group trips.
Note : Our fixed group departure dates, services and price is guaranteed even if the group numbers are 1 person to maximum 18 persons. We will provide a guide cum porter if there is only 1 person to operate the trek and one more assistant guide if group size is above 10 persons. And of course, guide cum porter will carry 10 kg luggage
Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return – 9 Days Departure Date
9 Days
Trip Days
15 Sep, 2026
Start Tuesday
23 Sep, 2026
End Wednesday
3
Pax Booked
16
Group Size
USD $2,150
Per Person
Booking Open
Status
9 Days
Trip Days
22 Sep, 2026
Start Tuesday
30 Sep, 2026
End Wednesday
1
Pax Booked
16
Group Size
USD $2,150
Per Person
Booking Open
Status
9 Days
Trip Days
29 Sep, 2026
Start Tuesday
7 Oct, 2026
End Wednesday
2
Pax Booked
16
Group Size
USD $2,150
Per Person
Booking Open
Status
Book a private trip on your own date.
Every journey we create is uniquely tailored to you. Share your interests and passions, and our travel experts will design an unforgettable adventure filled with extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experiences crafted just for you.
EBC Trek With Helicopter Return Meals and Accommodation
The Meals and Accommodation we provide to our consumers are of top quality. Similarly, we have Lodge twin share basis accommodation during the trekking. Similarly, all meals include Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during trekking. Likewise, we provide Western and Nepali foods, which are very healthy. In addition, the lodges we provide are very secure and comfortable, too, so that you can enjoy your time with us and the facility we provide.
Fitness and experience requirements For EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
Everest Base Camp is one of Nepal’s most challenging and extended treks. So, it would be best if you were entirely ready for this trek. This trek is o for physically ill people or inexperienced people. Even a lot of experienced trekkers find it hard to trek here. Because it pushes your body to its limit. So, we recommend you first climb small peaks and then come after to climb this peak.in addition, if you decide to do this trek despite your lack of experience, we highly recommend hiring an experienced guide.
Furthermore, you should not have any heart and blood-related diseases. Most importantly, it would be best to be passionate about the trek. Then you can see the stunning view it provides. Similarly, you will not find it challenging to trek here if you are passionate about it.
EBC Trek With Helicopter Return Climate and weather
At an altitude of 5,364 meters above sea level. The climate and weather are primarily cold in the Everest Base Camp. The average temperature of Everest base camp is -17 degrees Celsius, and trekking is done throughout the year, despite its temperature and weather. Annually, a lot of trekkers trek here. But the best time you could visit here is spring and autumn. You will experience the best climate and weather during this time of the year, which will help you get the panoramic views of Mt. Everest (8848 m), Lobuche (8516m), and Cho Oyu (8188m). But, sometimes, it can vary from season to season.
Cost for Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return
The cost for the Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return can vary widely depending on several factors, including the package type, services included, and personal expenses. Here is a bre k own of the typical costs:
Trekking Package
Standard Package: $2,500 – $3,500
- Includes: Accommodation, meals, guide, porter, permits, domestic flights (Kathmandu-Lukla), and helicopter return from Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu.
Luxury Package: $ 4,000 – $5,500
- Includes: Higher-end accommodations, additional services (like heated rooms), more personalized guide service, and helicopter return from Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu.
Breakdown of Costs
Flights:
- Kathmandu to Lukla round trip: $360 – $400
- Helicopter return from Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu: $1,200 -$1,500
Permits:
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit: $30
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: $20
Accommodation:
- Teahouses/lodges: $5-$50 per night (cost increases with altitude)
- Kathmandu hotels (before and after the trek): $30 – $150 per night
Meals:
- On trek: $25- $40 per day
- In Kathmandu: – $5 – $15 per meal
Guides and Porters:
- Guide: $30-$40 per day
- Porter: $20-$30 per day
Equipment and Gear:
- Rental or purchase of trekking gear: $200 – $500
Insurance:
- Comprehensive travel insurance (including high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation): $150 – $300
Additional Costs
Tips:
- Guides and porters: $ 100 – $ 150 for the guide, $50- $100 for the porter
Personal Expenses:
- Snacks, drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging devices: $200 – $300
Miscellaneous:
- Souvenirs, emergency funds, additional services
These estimates provide a general idea of the Everest Base Camp Trekking costs with Helicopter Return. Prices vary based on specific services, trekking season, and individual preferences.
What People Ask Abouut
EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
Is Everest Base Camp trekking with Helicopter Return route safe for trekkers ?
Can we change money along the trek ? Can we pay by credit card or foreign currency ?
What is the weight limit for porters ? and weight limit for Lukla flight ?
How long will we have to hike each day ?
What kind of toilet facilities are there? Will we be able to take a shower in Mountain ?
Do we need to tip my porter and guide ?
Is it possible to recharge batteries and electronics during the trek ?
Is it possible to communicate with friends and family back home while on trek ?
Related Trips