Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return

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Set out on an awe-inspiring Everest Base Camp with Heli Return Trek with the Nepal Hiking Team (NHT). This allows travelers to enjoy a magnificent trekking experience as well as savor the breathtaking mountain views with a thrilling Heli ride.
  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration12 days
  • Trip DifficultyModerate
  • ActivitiesTrekking and Heli Tours
  • AccommodationHotel/Guesthouse
  • MealsB.L.D
  • Max. Elevation5545m.
  • Group SizeMin. 2 Pax
  • BEST TIMEMarch to May & Sept - Dec

Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek 

This Everest Base Camp Trek 12-day with Heli Return is a breathtaking journey into the Khumbu Valley, which immerses you in giant peaks. This expedition is a combination of an exciting view of the Himalayas and the intriguing culture of the Sherpas. Moreover, this trek is a great way to make the memories of the mountains that stay in your memory forever.

Like all the Everest Region Treks, this journey also starts with a dramatic flight to the world’s most exciting airport: Lukla Airport. From there, the walk continues through several villages like Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and many more. These villages are all part of the Sagarmatha Conservation Area; thus trekkers walk past flourishing alpines with wild vegetation of the Himalayan Park.

As you move up the Khumbu Glaciers, you can feast your eyes on peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Everest, and more. From the vantage point of Kala Patthar, you can witness the mesmerizing sunrise above the mighty mountains.

After experiencing the stunning view of Everest ranges from land, you then hop on to a helicopter and relive the mountains from the sky. Enjoy the enormous mountains and Khumbu’s stunning scenery from the Helicopter. This brief but incredible sensation of excitement shall stay engraved in your memory.

Overall, Everest Base Camp with Heli Shuttle Trek offers a unique way to view the stunning majestic mountains.

Trip Highlight for EBC with Heli Shuttle Trek

  • Get on a stunning mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, viewing the mountain ranges from the air.
  • Visit Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore diverse Himalayan flora and fauna in a pristine environment.
  • Explore the historical village of Namche Bazar and learn about the mountain lifestyle of the Sherpas.
  • Visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about the diverse culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Sherpa Community.
  • View a 360-degree degree Mountain View from Hotel Everest View, the world's highest hotel.
  • Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery of the Khumbu Region and immerse yourself in its religious atmosphere.
  • Feel the proud achievement of reaching the Base of Mount Everest and get awe-struck by its serene beauty.
  • Hike up to Kala Patthar and take in the breathtaking sight of the sunrise amongst Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, etc.
  • Take a captivating helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Lukla where travelers have a mesmerizing view of the Khumbu Valley and the Everest Region.

Journey to the Base of Mount Everest

Your Everest Base Camp with Heli Shuttle Trek will start when you arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu (KTM). You’ll be received by the Nepal Hiking Team (NHT) member. Then, you will be guided to a hotel in Kathmandu, which is centrally located near the tourist hub and perfect for exploring the surroundings on foot, doing some shopping, and discovering eateries & restaurants.

After spending a night in Kathmandu, you will fly to Lukla from either Kathmandu Domestic Airport or Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, depending on the season. Your 'Everest Base Camp Trek' begins at Lukla Airport.

Once you land at Lukla, the trek follows the Dudh Koshi River through Sagarmatha National Park. After spending a night in Phakding, the journey continues towards Namche Bazaar, where you stay for two nights to acclimatize. You can stroll to the Hotel Everest View, the highest-placed hotel, and admire ancient stupas, Sherpa museums, and Memorial Stones.

Then, continuing your walk-through of the trails to a monastery at Tengboche Village, you can take your time to adore the mesmerizing view of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Thamserku. After arriving at Dingboche, you will be awed by the spectacular Ama Dablam and walk towards Nangkartshang Peak. After Dingoche, you’ll trek towards Nagarjun and then to Lobuche.

Keep following the EBC route; you'll reach Gorak Shep after twists and turns along the Khumbu Glacier, and then finally, you will reach the Base of Mount Everest. You can witness how the Khumbu Icefalls mesmerize you as it unwind the timeless beauty of this region. After a few moments of admiration, you will descend to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

The next day, you hike to Kala Pathar to watch the sunrise rising from Everest and other peaks. After that, you’ll descend to Gorakshep, where a chopper will take you to Lukla and a regular flight will take you back to Kathmandu.

Plan your Everest Base Camp with Heli Shuttle Trek with the Nepal Hiking Team. We offer fully customized itineraries and experienced Everest guides to ensure an unforgettable adventure.

Itinerary

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You may arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Upon your arrival, our airport representative will welcome you and explain the program further. He will also help you get transferred to the Hotel. There are no planned activities for the day, so check into the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.

  1. Accommodation:Hotel

You will have an early morning transfer to the airport for your Lukla flight. Depending on the season, you will fly either from Kathmandu or Ramechhap. The flight to Lukla is a lifetime experience in itself. The airfield of Lukla is at a high elevation, and the difference between the two ends of the runway is about an exceptional 60 meters only.

The atmosphere is different from Kathmandu, and you can feel the difference in the air immediately as you land at Lukla. From there, you will trek to Phakding, with an arresting, green landscape with a view of the Kusum Kanguru Himal.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

From Phakding, we will follow the Dudh Koshi River. Ascending through Himalayan pine and cedar forests, we will reach the celebrated village of Namche Bazaar. The village of Namche is a historic trading post where Nepalese and Tibetan traders exchanged salt, dried meat, and textiles in ancient trading times.

Besides being a splendid destination to shop for traditional crafts, Namche also remains the central trading post in the Khumbu that attracts many Himalayan and lowland merchants. Namche Bazaar is located on a hillside and is structured like a natural amphitheater. The views of the Kongdi RI, Mount Everest, Thamserku, and many other peaks from here are quite fascinating. Overnight stay at the Guesthouse at Namche Bazaar.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

This day is especially sectioned for acclimatization. Today, we will hike to the Syangboche Airport (3700m), supposed to be the highest located airstrip in the world. The view of Namche Bazaar from Syangboche is utterly amazing.

Then, we will continue climbing to the Everest View Hotel for great panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Tawache, and many other mountain peaks. The Everest View Hotel is also entered into the Guinness Book of World records as the highest located hotel in the world. It boasts views of Mount Everest from all of its windows. On the way back, we can also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and the Everest Photo Gallery. 

  1. Meals:Breakfast and Lunch Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

We will continue the trek to Tengboche today. The uniform and easy trail lead us towards the view of Mount Everest, descending deep into the Dudh Koshi Valley at Pungki Thanka. From this point, it ascends the right flank of the Dudh Koshi valley to the Tengboche Monastery (3860m). The village of Tengboche is considered the spiritual center of the Khumbu.

The climb is lengthy but is more than adequately compensated by gorgeous views of Mount Ama Dablam and on a clear day, views of Mount Everest and its surrounding peaks as well. The views of the mountain peaks from Tengboche’s ridges are out of this world. The village is also surrounded by rhododendron and pine forests and we can catch glimpses of the Danphe bird as well in the woods.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

Descending through a beautiful forest, we will cross the Imja Khola and trek through the village of Pangboche (3900m). Today is the most interesting trekking day because you will not lose altitude like on other days. You can also enjoy views of Mount Ama Dablam, Mt. Lhotse, and many other peaks along the trail as well.

The route continues through pastures to Dingboche, known as the “Summer Valley”. It has a kilometer-long wall built on the outskirts of the village that serves as a protection for the agricultural crops against the cold winds of the region. It receives more sunlight as well. The crops planted in the village roll serenely against the mountain air.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

This would be your second acclimatization day that requires about 6 hours of trekking to an altitude of 5100 meters. After breakfast, you will ascend to Nagerjun (5100m), a hill located on the flanks of the Chhukung valley directly above Dingboche.

The main aim is to climb high and sleep low. The footpath to Nagerjun becomes steep at times, resulting in a physically strenuous day. Ascending the hill could take up to 5 hours at altitude. From this altitude, there are good views of the Lobuche East (6119m), the Lobuche West (6145m), the Taboche Peak (6367m), Thamserku (6608m), the Kangtega Himal (6685m) and the Ama Dablam (6856m). On a clear day, you can even see Mount Makalu, the world’s fifth highest mountain, including great views of the Pheriche Valley.

After a short rest, you will start the descent back to Dingboche. The walk back at altitude takes about 2 hours. After lunch, you can take a well-deserved rest, as afternoon temperatures could drop rapidly as the sun sets over the mountain tops.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

Trekking along a broad valley floor to Dughla, we will be passing the Trekkers Aid Post at Pheriche (4240 m). This trek is staffed by Western volunteer doctors and supported by the Himalayan Rescue Association, which offers treatment and consultation to trekkers. Continuing up the valley, we will be gaining altitude. We will come out of the valley to descend to the yak pastures of Lobuche.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

After a short climb through meadows, you can look down at the Khumbu glacier. Straight ahead lies Kalapatthar – the best vantage point to view the entire south face of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks.

After a couple of hours, we will get to Gorakshep and continue our journey to the Everest Base Camp. There is not much elevation gain, but there are a lot of ups and downs and, combined with altitude, this can be an exhausting trek. But the journey is worth it. After approximately 3 hrs of hiking, you will arrive at the base camp. You can also enjoy a magnificent view of the Khumbu glacier and icefall, where the Everest expeditions first began.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

The day starts with a hike up to Kalapatthar (5545m), the best viewpoint to witness Mount Everest in all its glory and the spectacular Himalayan range. After spending time looking at the magnificent views of the mountains from Kalapatthar, we will trek back to Gorakshep for breakfast. Then the most thrilling part of the journey commences- the helicopter ride! From Gorakshep, you will get a helicopter ride to Lukla.

The view of the mountains from the helicopter is quite amazing! Looking at the landscape below also presents splendid sights. The terrain below looks like a colorful green and white carpet laid out in the landscape. It is a matter of amazing Himalayan views and rolling hills. The helicopter view of the Himalayan Rivers is like watching a silver ribbon cutting across the land. The experience is quite enriching and full of marvelous and gorgeous sights.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse

You will say goodbye to the mountains and take a flight back to Ramechhap or Kathmandu from Lukla today, depending on the trekking season. The return flight to Ramechhap or Kathmandu from Lukla takes about 20/30 minutes.

Note: From March to May and September to November, all Lukla flights will be from Ramechhap, which involves a 4-hour drive.

  1. Meals:Breakfast Included
  2. Accommodation:Hotel

Breakfast at the hotel, and approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight, a representative from the Nepal Hiking Team will take you to the airport for your departure.

  1. Meals:Breakfast Included

Cost and Date

Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.

The Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 12 days Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.

    Cost Includes

    • All ground transports in a private vehicle, including airport transfers
    • Two nights (twin sharing beds) accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
    • Full board meals with tea/coffee (Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner) during the trek
    • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek, we provide you attached bathroom with hot shower at Lukla, Phakding, and Namche
    • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
    • Round trip flight Kathmandu – Lukla, and Lukla – Kathmandu including departure taxes
    • Service of Heli shuttle from Gorakshep to Lukla.
    • Duffle bag for the trekking
    • Down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek, if required
    • Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
    • First aid medical kit
    • Sagarmatha National Park Permits fee
    • TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
    • Government taxes and office service charge

    Cost Excludes

    • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
    • Travel insurance
    • International airfare
    • Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying the US $ 50 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying the US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
    • Cold drinks Inc. coke, water, Fanta, etc.
    • Snacks and other personal expenses
    • Hot shower during the trek except for Phakding, Namche, and Lukla
    • Personal trekking equipment
    • WiFi internet during the trek
    • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and driver

    Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return Route Map

    Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return Map

    Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return Video

    Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return FAQs

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    Why Nepal Hiking Team

    We’ve led Everest treks for over 17 years and bring unmatched local knowledge to every Heli Shuttle departure. Our licensed Sherpa guides are born in the Khumbu region and know the trail, terrain, and altitude challenges inside out. From the moment you book, we take care of everything—permits, domestic flights, quality lodges, and your helicopter return—so the journey runs smoothly from start to finish.

    We keep our groups small for better attention and flexibility, and our pricing is fully transparent. With over 2,300 verified five-star reviews, our reputation speaks for itself. If you’re looking for the right team to handle your EBC Heli Shuttle Trek with expertise and care, we’re proud to be that team.

    Yes, you're very welcome to join the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek as a solo traveler. We run fixed departures throughout the season, and if no other trekkers join your selected date, your trip will still run as planned at the solo rate of US$3400.

    The helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla is already arranged for you, so there’s no need to coordinate with others or worry about seat sharing—it’s all handled in advance.

    Yes, private trips are available every day for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. You don’t need to follow our fixed departure dates. If you're traveling with friends or family, we can run the trek on your preferred dates at no extra cost for groups of two or more. It’s a flexible option that allows you to set your own pace and customize the experience.

    Solo travelers can also book privately, though there is an added charge for one-person departures.

    The key difference is that the 12-day Heli Shuttle Trek includes an overnight stop in Lukla after your helicopter flight from Gorakshep, followed by a regular flight to Kathmandu the next morning.

    In contrast, the 11-day Everest Base Camp Heli Trek is a more relaxed option as it includes two nights in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu and a direct helicopter transfer from Gorakshep to Kathmandu, eliminating the overnight stop in Lukla and saving travel time on the return.

    Highly Recommended for You: Neither of these itineraries includes a reserve day before the trek or a buffer day after. We highly recommend adding one extra day in Kathmandu after the trek as a precaution.

    Both treks follow the same route to Everest Base Camp and use the same lodges along the trail. The 16-day standard Everest trek includes two additional nights in Kathmandu and a full round-trip on foot—ideal for those who want to experience the entire trail at a more relaxed pace.

    The 12-day Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek is better for trekkers short on time. Instead of walking back down from Gorakshep, you’ll board a helicopter to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu the next day, cutting out the return walk while still covering the whole route on the way up.

    Yes, we’re happy to customize the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek based on your preferences. Whether you'd like to add rest days, include side hikes, upgrade accommodations, or adjust the return flight with a direct helicopter to Kathmandu, we can tailor the trip to match your travel style and schedule.

    Arrival and Visa

    Yes, most nationalities can get a Tourist Visa on Arrival at Kathmandu airport or certain land borders. You can fill out the online form in advance or use airport kiosks.

    Please have your passport (valid for at least 6 months), arrival card, and visa fee ready. Some countries are not eligible—please check in advance. Visas can be extended in Kathmandu.

    Yes, airport transfers are included in the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek package. When you arrive in Kathmandu, our representative will be waiting outside the arrival terminal holding a sign with “Nepal Hiking Team.”

    We’ll then take you directly to your hotel. Your departure transfer is also covered, and we’ll schedule it based on your outbound flight time. If you arrive early or stay extra nights, we’ll adjust the timing accordingly.

    For the 12-day EBC heli Shuttle trek, our package includes accommodations at a comfortable 3-star hotel in Thamel—typically the Woodapple Hotel & Spa or a similar property, depending on availability.

    If you'd like to upgrade to a higher-category hotel, we can arrange that for an additional cost. Let us know your preference in advance so we can plan accordingly.

    If you're arriving early or leaving later than the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek itinerary, we’re happy to arrange extra nights for you. An additional night at the hotel included in our standard package costs USD 50 for a twin or double room and USD 45 for a single. The rate covers breakfast and all government taxes. We’ll adjust the booking based on your travel plans.

    Yes, absolutely. You can leave your extra bags at the hotel while you're on the trek; they'll keep them safe until you return.

    Before the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek begins, we hold a detailed pre-trek briefing at your hotel in Kathmandu. One of our team members will meet you along with your guide to review your itinerary, share the latest trail and weather updates, and explain helicopter arrangements.

    You'll also receive your trekking gear, and we’ll collect copies of your passport and insurance details. This is the perfect time to ask any final questions or discuss anything you’d like clarified before the trek begins.

    Booking and Payment

    Booking is quick and straightforward. Select your travel dates on our website, fill out the booking form, and confirm your reservation with a 20% deposit using your card.

    If you'd rather pay later or prefer a wire transfer, you can choose the “Book Now and Pay Later” option—we’ll email you a separate payment link. Once your deposit is received, we’ll confirm your trek and send the full itinerary.

    The remaining balance can be paid in Kathmandu before the trek starts, either by card, cash, or bank transfer.

    Yes, you can cancel your trek if you’re unable to travel. Please email us your cancellation request, and we’ll take care of it from there. While the 20% deposit is non-refundable, it will remain as a credit that you can use for any future trip with us.

    We always recommend reviewing our booking and cancellation policy in advance so everything is clear before confirming.

    Transportation: Lukla flight and Heli

    Direct flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are available only during the low trekking season. In peak months—typically from late March to mid-May and late September to November—Lukla flights operate from Ramechhap Airport instead, due to air traffic restrictions at Kathmandu’s main airport.

    Ramechhap is about 132 kilometers from Kathmandu, and we arrange early morning ground transportation to ensure you reach the airport on time.

    Lukla flights are weather-dependent, and delays or cancellations can happen at any time of year. If your flight is canceled, the usual solution is to wait and fly the next day.

    For those on a tighter schedule, we can help arrange a shared helicopter—typically an extra around USD 450 per person, plus the cost of the guide’s seat. Since the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek doesn’t include a buffer day, we strongly suggest adding one to your itinerary to stay flexible in case of disruptions.

    Yes, you can upgrade to a helicopter flight between Kathmandu and Lukla to avoid the drive to Ramechhap. This is a shared flight and costs approximately USD 500 per person after adjusting for the value of the regular ticket.

    The helicopter flies directly from Kathmandu to Lukla or vice versa. Advance booking is required, and the cost of the guide’s seat is shared among the group.

    The total baggage allowance on the Lukla flight is 15 kilograms per person—10 kg for checked luggage and 5 kg for hand carry. This limit includes your personal belongings along with the trekking gear we provide, such as the duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket.

    After you hike up to Kalapatthar and return to Gorakshep, a helicopter will pick you up from the helipad and fly you to Lukla. You'll spend the night in Lukla and then catch a regular flight to Kathmandu the following morning.

    All helicopter arrangements are pre-booked, and our team will coordinate the timing based on weather and air traffic conditions.

    Eligibility: Who can Trek & Difficulty

    The 12-day Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. While the altitude and daily walking hours require good fitness, the helicopter return from Gorakshep makes the overall experience more manageable. The trek is suitable for first-time trekkers as well as those with previous hiking experience.

    You'll walk approximately 65 kilometers (about 40 miles) in total, including scenic side hikes to the Everest View Hotel and Kalapatthar. Since there’s no need to walk back from Gorakshep, the descent is shortened significantly.

    The best times to do the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November). These months offer the clearest skies, stable weather, blooming rhododendrons, and stunning mountain views.

    We also run this trek in winter and monsoon for those who prefer quieter trails and a more off-season feel, but conditions can be colder or wetter depending on the time. For the best overall experience, we recommend trekking during the main spring or autumn season.

    There’s no strict age limit for the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek. We’ve guided children as young as four and seniors well into their 70s on the classic EBC route. With the helicopter return, this version is more accessible and reduces the physical strain of walking back.

    For young kids or older trekkers, we recommend adding a few extra days on the way up to allow for better acclimatization and a safer, more enjoyable pace. Alternatively, you can check our specially crafted package for seniors and kids.

    Trekker's well-being and safety

    Travel insurance isn’t mandatory to enter Nepal, but we do require it to join the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. This protects you in case of emergencies and ensures you're covered for medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, and high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters. Your policy should also include coverage for trip cancellations and travel delays.

    You can check with providers like Genki Traveler, AXA, Allianz, or World Nomads, or explore options available in your home country.

    To prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return, focus on building stamina and endurance. Regular hiking, brisk walking, and uphill training will help condition your legs and lungs for the altitude.

    Strengthen your core and legs through light cardio and low-impact exercises. Break in your hiking boots well in advance and make sure all your gear fits comfortably. Since this is a high-altitude trek, it also helps to mentally prepare and choose the right season for your journey.

    The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to trek at a steady pace and give your body time to adjust. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days to help with the gradual ascent. Make sure to drink plenty of water, eat well, and avoid alcohol while gaining elevation.

    Always listen to your guide’s instructions and let them know right away if you feel unwell—they’re trained to recognize symptoms early and take the right steps to keep you safe.

    Vaccinations are not required to travel to Nepal, and we don’t require any for joining the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek. However, you may consider a rabies vaccination, as the trail passes through villages where stray dogs can occasionally be seen.

    For personal medical guidance, it’s best to consult with your doctor or travel clinic before your trip.

    Yes, the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek itinerary includes two acclimatization days—one in Namche Bazaar at 3,440 meters and another in Dingboche at 4,410 meters.

    On these rest days, you’ll take short hikes to higher elevations and return to your lodge to sleep lower. This gradual adjustment helps your body adapt to the altitude and significantly lowers the risk of altitude sickness.

    Trekking gear

    For the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, you’ll need basic trekking gear including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a down or insulated jacket, a waterproof shell, gloves, a hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. A comfortable daypack is essential for carrying your daily items like snacks, water, sunscreen, documents, and a camera.

    We provide a -15°C sleeping bag, a warm down jacket, and a 70-liter duffel bag, which your porter will carry. Toiletries and other personal gear should go in the duffel.

    For a full gear list, please refer to the Equipment Checklist on our website.

    Yes, we provide a porter for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. One porter carries the combined luggage of two trekkers, with a total weight limit of 25 kilograms, so you can pack around 12 to 13 kilograms in your duffel bag.

    During the trek, you’ll carry your own daypack (a 20–22 liter pack is recommended) with essentials like water, snacks, a warm layer, your passport, and personal items needed during the day.

    Accommodations and Connectivity

    During the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, you’ll stay in twin-sharing lodges that are simple but clean and comfortable. Rooms along the EBC route include proper beds with mattresses, pillows, clean bed sheets, and basic furnishings.

    In lower villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche, we use the best available lodges with attached bathrooms and hot showers. As you ascend higher, the lodges become more basic, with shared toilets and fewer amenities, but still offer warm dining areas and hearty meals.

    If you’d like a private room for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, the additional cost is USD 200 on top of the standard group rate. This covers single accommodation for the entire trip—including hotel stays in Kathmandu and teahouses along the trail.

    Wi-Fi is available in most lodges along the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, especially in lower villages like Lukla and Namche. As you go higher, the signal becomes weaker, and internet access may be slower or unavailable. Lodges often use Everest Link cards for Wi-Fi, which you can purchase along the route. Access charges also tend to increase with elevation.

    Mobile networks like Ncell and NTC offer decent coverage in the lower sections of the trail, but service drops significantly at higher altitudes. If you want mobile data during the trek, we recommend purchasing a local SIM card in Kathmandu. Even with that, expect limited service in the upper parts of the route.

    Yes, it’s possible to stay overnight at Everest Base Camp on a private trek with at least two people. The added cost is approximately USD 450 per person based on a two-person booking.

    We’ll arrange the required permits, tented accommodation, meals, and expedition logistics through a local support team. However, we generally don’t recommend it due to the high altitude of 5,364 meters and the greater risk of altitude sickness. The glacier terrain also makes emergency descents more difficult at night, so this option should be considered with caution.

    During the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, you’ll find Western-style toilets in many teahouses in the lower villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche, and Dingboche.

    As you gain altitude, squat toilets become more common, and facilities are more basic. Most toilets are shared, and in higher or more remote areas, you may also come across simple composting toilets or basic outdoor setups.

    Meals and Drinks

    Meals on the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek are ordered from teahouse menus and freshly prepared at each stop. You'll find a mix of local and international dishes—dal bhat, soups, noodles, fried rice, pasta, pancakes, eggs, and momos are commonly available along the trail.

    The food is warm, simple, and filling, especially after a full day of hiking. As you get higher, the menu becomes more limited, but you’ll still have hearty meals at every stop.

    Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available throughout the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. Many teahouses can adapt meals to suit dietary preferences, especially in lower villages. Nepalese cuisine includes a variety of plant-based dishes, and your meals can be customized as long as we know your needs in advance.

    Please let us know if you have allergies or dietary restrictions so we can inform your guide and arrange with the lodges accordingly.

    To stay hydrated during the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, drink water regularly throughout the day; aim for 3 to 4 liters total. Take small sips often instead of drinking a lot at once. Warm soups, tea, and safe fluids all help with hydration, especially in the cold. Try to avoid too much caffeine, as it can cause dehydration at high altitude.

    Trek Cost & Money Matters

    We recommend bringing around NPR 20,000 to 25,000 in cash for personal expenses during the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. This amount should cover extras like hot showers, Wi‑Fi, device charging, snacks, drinks, and other small purchases at the lodges.

    You can withdraw cash in Kathmandu before the trek. ATMs are also available in Lukla, Namche, and Dingboche, but they often run out of money or go offline, so it’s best to prepare ahead and carry enough Nepali rupees for the full trip.

    Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a well-accepted practice on the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. Many trekkers choose to tip their guide, porter, and support staff as a way to show appreciation for their service and care throughout the journey.

    There's no fixed amount- it depends on your experience and satisfaction. Tips can be given in Nepali rupees or US dollars, and even a modest amount is appreciated by the team.

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