Want to trek on the World’s best trekking destination? Your trek to the base of the mighty Everest is every trekker's dream. Experience this magical experience on a Horse Back to the EBC. This Everest base camp trek is a 12-day trek where you get to ride on horseback for two days to the Everest Base Camp.
At a Glance
Destination
Nepal
Durations
12 days
Trip Difficulty
Moderate to Strenuous
Activities
Trekking/Horse Riding/Heli Shuttle
Accommodation
Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals
B.L.D
Max.altitude
5545m.
Group Size
Min. 2 Pax
BEST TIME
March to May and Sept to Nov.
Trip Overview
This Horse Riding Trek is a less sustainable and unique way to travel to the Base of Everest. Sustainable, because the trip would employ the local horsemen, porters, and guides. The EBC Horse Riding Trek with Heli Return provides you with a spectacular glimpse of the mountains and glaciers. Ride through the rugged terrains and witness the amazing beauty of the Himalayas. Engage yourself in the local Sherpa culture, and visit monasteries and local communities. While this trek is exciting in itself, this adventure offers a different angle on this traditional trek. You can tick off your adventure bucket list with The Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek.
From landing at the most amazing airport, Lukla to trekking to Dingboche and riding to EBC, this adventure on a horse is for you. Beyond the thrill of horseback riding, this journey offers a gateway to the captivating wonders of the Khumbu Region. It also caters to those who desire to explore its beauty but may not have the stamina for extended trekking. Overall, the EBC Horse Riding Trek is a unique and thrilling experience combining horse riding, trekking, and the opportunity to witness the stunning Himalayas.
Who is suitable for Horseback with Helicopter Return Trek
This Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek is for trekkers of all ages and every level of experience. From solo travelers to family trekking holidays, this can be done by everybody. This trek is also for those who have a weak lower limb and are not able to walk for long distances.
But you do need to be physically fit, as you’ll still have to trek to an elevation of 5100 meters or 16728 ft. Because of the elevation, you need to have strong lungs and a good heart to endure the low oxygen level. You will have to trek up to Dingboche from Lukla and ride on a horse to the EBC and return to Lukla via an amazing heli ride.
Highlights of the Horseback with Helicopter Return Trek
Fly to one of the most adventurous airports in the world, Tenzing-Hillary Airport.
Roam around Namche Bazaar, and visit the streets of this charming little village. Also visit the shops, restaurants, cafes, and eateries.
Visit the world’s highest-placed hotel, Hotel Everest View, and watch the panoramic views of Everest.
Visit the Sherpa Museum to learn more about the lifestyle and the culture of the native Sherpas of the region.
Trail through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Trek along the forested trails and witness some rare wildlife of the region.
Get a close-up view of Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Kantega, and Kusum Kanguru.
Witness the Buddhist monks meditating and observing their rituals at the sacred Tengboche Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in Khumbu Region.
Take a glimpse of the early sunrise overlooking Everest, Pumori, Ama Dablam, etc.
Ride on a horse or a pony through the Khumbu region and gaze at the magnificent Khumbu glaciers and valleys.
Ride to the base of the World’s Tallest Mountain, Mount Everest, and be awed by the magnificence of the mountain.
About the Horses
The horses used during the Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek are an indigenous breed of Himalayan mountain horses. These horses are known for their hardiness and obedient nature with resilient nature. They are agile, rider-friendly, and can walk easily in difficult terrain and snow.
The horse minders or groomers will be guiding these horses throughout the trek. They take special care of these majestic animals by grooming them, feeding them, and making sure they’re in top shape.
The Best time to go for the Everest Base Camp Horse Riding Trek and Heli Return
The Nepal Hiking Team highly recommends autumn (Sep-Nov) and spring (Mar-May), as these are the best periods for trekking to Everest Base Camp. It is possible, however, to trek throughout the year. Each season offers unique experiences, so choose a time that suits your schedule and preference.
Autumn offers nice weather with clear views and is a popular trekking time. It also coincides with the Nepali festivals, and you can experience them during this time. Springtime has its charm with flowers in bloom, moderate temperatures, and also a favorite time for trekkers.
Note that the summer season (Jun, Jul, and Aug) attracts fewer trekkers due to heat and rain, especially at lower levels. But the trails are more peaceful, with favorable temperatures, and plenty of greenery.
Early winter provides a quieter trekking experience, but it is cold with potential snowfall. It's not advisable to go trekking in mid to late winter because of the severe cold and the danger of avalanches.
Journey Summary
Once you land at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), one of our members will receive you at the arrival gate. They will then transport you straight to the hotel and brief you about your itinerary once you check in. No activity is planned for the day, so you can roam around your surroundings.
The next day, you’ll get on a flight to Lukla. Either you’ll take a flight from Kathmandu Domestic Airport or Manthali Airport, Ramechhap. You’ll be able to glimpse at the snow-covered mountains while on flight. After you land at Lukla, you start your trek to Phakding, crossing the Dudh Koshi River.
You’ll now trek to Namche Bazar through the Sagarmatha National Park and cross the Hillary Bridge, the highest suspension in Khumbu Region. Namche is also known as the Capital of the Sherpa of this region. You’ll acclimatize here at Namche, you can roam around the streets and visit shops, cafes, and restaurants. Also, visit the Highest Placed Hotel, Hotel Everest View, and watch the panoramic view of Everest, Nuptse, and many more.
Then you move towards Tengboche, famous for its massive Buddhist monastery, which is the largest in the Khumbu Region. After Tengboche, you go towards Dingboche. Passing through lush forests, trek past the village of Pangboche. You’ll acclimatize for the second time by climbing to Nagarjun Hill.
From here, you’ll start your horse ride to EBC. You continue through a barren trail and you’ll just see mountains as far as your eyes can see. Once you arrive at Lobuche, you’ll be presented with a splendid panorama of the Himalayas. From Lobuche, you ride towards Everest Base Camp (EBC) alongside the Khumbu Glacier. After reaching Gorak Shep after riding for a while, you finally reach Everest base Camp. You take in the achievement and the view of the Mighty Everest. Your horse ride ends when you reach Gorak Shep and rest after a tiring day.
The next day, you hike up to Kala Patthar before the sunrise. You can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Changtse, Ama Dablam, and other mountains. After viewing the glorious view, you return to Gorak Shep and fly back to Lukla via a Helicopter.
After you land at Lukla, you take a rest there and wait for your flight the next day. Early morning, you catch your flight back to Kathmandu where our member will be waiting for you to transfer you to the hotel. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can spend the day either roaming around Kathmandu or visiting the local surrounding market. You’ll be transferred to the airport by our representative from the hotel and bid you farewell.
We are dedicated to ensuring that your trip becomes an unforgettable memory. So feel free to contact Nepal Hiking Team with your needs and we’ll handle all the details to make your journey stress-free.
Itinerary
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Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel. You can check in and you’ll be briefed about your itinerary after your check-in. No activity has been planned for today so you can catch up on your sleep or roam around your surroundings.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla then trek to Phakding (2,652m/8,699ft). Walking Distance: 8 km, Duration: 3 hours
Either you’ll take a flight from Kathmandu Domestic Airport or Manthali Airport, Ramechhap. The flight to Lukla is as thrilling as your upcoming horse-riding trek to Everest Base Camp. You get your first glimpse of the snow-covered mountains from the flight.
After arriving in Lukla, you start your trek to Phakding, crossing the Dudh Koshi River. The trail goes up and down and crosses a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River before arriving in Phakding, your first overnight stop.
Note: Flights to and from Lukla will operate via Ramechhap during the peak seasons from mid-March to the end of May and from mid-September to early December.
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft). Hiking Distance: 10 to 12 km, Duration: 6 hours
After breakfast, you continue walking on the picturesque route enjoying the untouched nature. The trail meanders past Sherpa settlements, pine forests, silvery waterfalls, and a gurgling river. At Monjo, you enter the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After a brief rest, you continue your journey and soon cross the Hillary Bridge, the highest suspension in Khumbu Region. You reach Namche soon after crossing the bridge.
Namche, set on the side of the mountain is regarded as the Sherpa capital. Restaurants, cafes, lodges, and shops line the street. You trek to your lodge which offers amazing views of Thamserku, Kantega, Kusum Kangaru, and Khumbila.
Day 04: Acclimatization - Day Hike Everest View Hotel, Distance - 3 to 4 km, Duration: 3 to 4 hour
You spend this day at Namche, letting your body adapt to high altitude. You can hike to Hotel Everest View which lies above Namche. The hotel is one of the highest-placed hotels in the world and offers panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Kantega, Kongde Ri, Thamserku, and other Himalayan giants.
If you have the energy you can also walk or ride to the neighboring villages of Khumjung and Kunde where the first school and health center was established by Sir Edmund Hillary's 'Himalayan Trust'.
There's a Sherpa Culture Museum which you can visit to learn more about local Sherpa culture and the history of the Mount Everest pioneers.
Day 05: Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft). Hiking Distance: 10 to 11 km, Duration: 5 hours
Today's hike is filled with amazing views of the Himalayan mountains. As you slowly walk out of Namche, the trail evens out, and you are presented. You get a close-up view of Ama Dablam, Kantega, and Kusum Kanguru while Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse rise in the distance. Midway you stop for lunch before heading down to the Dudh Koshi River. It's a steep ascent to Tengboche, and you may have to walk steadily and hike up to the village.
Tengboche is famous for its massive Buddhist monastery, which is the largest in the Khumbu Region. You can explore the monastery and attend the afternoon prayer, where you can witness the lamas (monks) chant the mantras and observe the rituals.
Later you head to your guesthouse and take a well-deserved rest.
Day 06: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,464ft). Hiking Distance: 11 to 12 km, Duration: 5 hours
You partly hike down a forested trail. The forests along this trail are home to some rare and diverse wildlife. You cross the Imja River and walk past the village of Pangboche. The snow-covered summit of Ama Dablam appears closer as the base camp of the mountain is just about a couple of hours' walk from Pangboche.
As you go higher you will find the lush forest disappearing and short and stubby grasses covering the landscape. The settlement of Dingboche lies on a gentle valley on the side of a mountain. Here you are above 4000 meters and you can feel the chill and thin air.
Day 07: Acclimatization - Hike to Nangkartshang HIll, Walking Distance - 5 to 6 km, Duration: 3-4 hours
This is your second acclimatization day. To get used to the high altitude you go for a hike to a hill close to Dingboche. Nangkartshang at 5,083m rises above the Chukkung Valley. It's a steep and tough hike but the views are incredible.
You can savor close-up views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Lhotse, Island Peak, Taboche, and Thamserku. After taking pictures and spending some time savoring the views you hike down and return to your guesthouse.
Day 08: Ride to Lobuche (4,910m/16,105ft). Distance: 11 to 12 km, Duration: 5 hours
Today you start your horse ride on a barren trail. There are no trees except mountains everywhere, as far as the eyes can see. Riding on your horse at a comfortable pace, you can enjoy the snowy peaks towering around you.
En route, you cross the Thughla Pass with the memorial stupas dedicated to mountaineers who lost their lives on Mount Everest. Arriving at Laboche, you are presented with a splendid panorama of the Himalayan peaks. Take rest and keep yourself warm and hydrated.
Note: This would be your first horse ride of the trek.
Day 09: Ride to EBC and return to Gorak Shep (5181m/16994ft) Distance - 14 to 15 km, Duration- 8 hours
Leaving Lobuche you ride along the side of the frozen Khumbu Glacier. The path is rocky and there's loose scree which makes riding difficult at times. After reaching Gorak Shep you have your lunch and carry on toward Everest Base Camp 5364m/17594ft. The stark and barren beauty of the landscape is breathtaking. You hike and ride past the Khumbu Glacier and finally arrive at your destination, the Everest Base Camp.
Congratulations you have made it! Take pictures at the EBC and remember views of the Khumbu Icefall, the massive wall of Lhotse, and Nuptse. Far in the distance, you can see the actual EBC where expedition groups have pitched up tents.
You return to Gorak Shep through the same route. It has been a tiring and eventful day, and after arriving at the guesthouse, you can take a well-deserved rest.
Note: The horse ride trip concludes today.
Day 10: Hiking to Kalapatthar (5545m/18188ft) – Gorakshep – Helicopter Ride to Lukla, Duration: 2-3 hours
Wake up before sunrise and head to Kala Patthar, the most popular viewpoint in the Everest region. From the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Changtse, Ama Dablam, and other mountains. The sunrise over these snow-covered giants looks amazing. After enjoying the glorious view you head back to Gorak Shep. After the breakfast, we fly to Lukla by helicopter.
Taking a helicopter ride from Gorak Shep to Lukla is a quick and exciting way to travel in the Everest region. It only takes approximately 15 minutes, and you'll see incredible views of the Himalayas from the sky. This is way faster than the regular walking path, which can take two days. So, picking the helicopter ride saves you lots of time and makes the end of your trip unforgettable.
Day 11: Fly to Kathmandu
During your return flight, you can enjoy the view of the mountains for the last time. Depending on the season, your flight may either land at Manthali Airport in Ramechhap or head straight to the domestic airport in Kathmandu.
After arriving in Kathmandu, you can spend the day as you wish. You can relax at your hotel or explore the local market to shop for souvenirs.
Day 12: Depart Kathmandu
It's time to bid goodbye to Nepal. After breakfast, our representative will drop you off at the airport before your flight's scheduled departure. If you still haven’t had enough of the Himalayas, you can get in touch with the Nepal Hiking Team, and plan your next mountain adventure.
If the above EBC trek on Horseback with Helicopter Return itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences and specifications.
All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport transfers
Two nights' accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu.
Three daily meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Best available twin-sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek. We provide private bathrooms with hot showers in Phakding, Namche, and Lukla.
Snacks of seasonal fruits during the trek
One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide. Porters (1 porter between 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, and equipment. Accident insurance for all staff
Personal Horse from Dingbuche - Lobuche - Gorak Shep - EBC for two days.
Heli Shuttle from Gorak Shep to Lukla as per itinerary.
Down jacket and sleeping bag use while trekking
Duffle bag for trekking
Trekking map and trip achievement certificate
First aid medicine kit
All required trekking permits, government taxes, and office service charges.
Government taxes & office service charge
Cost Excludes
Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the above itinerary
Personal Travel insurance
International airfare
Nepal entry visa. You can obtain a visa quickly upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. A multiple-entry tourist visa suitable for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 50 or the equivalent in foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 135. Please bring two passport-size photos.
Soft drinks, including water
Snacks and other personal expenses
Hot showers during the trek except when in Phakding, Namche and Lukla
Personal trekking equipment
Internet, and phone call unless it is free.
Tips and gratuities for the trekking crews
Cost and Date
Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.
The EBC trek on Horseback with Helicopter Return set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the -days EBC trek on Horseback with Helicopter Return departure dates don't fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.
July, 2024
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EBC trek on Horseback with Helicopter Return Video
I recently completed the Everest Chola Pass Trek with Nepal Hiking Team, and it was an unforgettable adventure. From start to finish, the experience was seamless and truly exceptional.
Our guide, Uttam, was outstanding. His knowledge of the region, its history, and the local culture was impressive and made each day of the trek enriching and educational. Uttam's professionalism and patience were remarkable, ensuring that we felt safe, informed, and well-taken care of throughout the journey. His friendly demeanor and genuine passion for the mountains added a special touch to the trek, making every moment enjoyable. We shared many laughs each day and always had something to smile about!
We were also incredibly fortunate to have Amar as our porter/Sherpa. Amar was an absolute pleasure to trek with; his strength and dedication were evident as he safely carried our bags across the challenging terrain. Beyond his physical capabilities, Amar's warm personality and helpful nature made him an integral part of our trekking experience.
The Everest Chola Pass Trek itself was breathtaking, with stunning landscapes, challenging passes, and awe-inspiring views. We decided to go the clockwise route enjoying Gokyo valley first before embarking on Cho La Pass and EBC. We had phenomenal views and a perfect weather window for hiking - even the snowy Cho La Pass terrain was enjoyable and made for a real Himalayan experience.
The itinerary was well-planned, allowing us to acclimatize properly and enjoy each segment of the journey to its fullest. The support from Nepal Hiking Team was top-notch, from the accommodations to the meals, ensuring a comfortable and memorable adventure. The evening fruits after dinner were always a nice treat!
I highly recommend Nepal Hiking Team for anyone looking to embark on this incredible trek. Special thanks to Uttam and Amar for making our trek truly exceptional. Their dedication and hard work made all the difference, and I cannot recommend them enough for future trekkers.
I joined on an Everest Base Camp trek with NHT on April 4th, joining as a solo traveler along with three other solo adventurers. Right from the start, our experience was seamless, with Arjun picking us up from the airport. He was not only our driver but also became our primary guide. Alongside him was Ganga Ji, who was exceptionally informative and helpful, clearly explaining all the details of our tour.
Our group consisted of four travelers, two skilled guides, Arjun and Nima, and two dedicated porters. Throughout our journey, the service was outstanding in every aspect. NHT provided top-notch accommodation and meals throughout the trip. They also managed our flights to and from Lukla flawlessly.
What made this trek truly remarkable was the personalized attention we received. Arjun was particularly supportive; we were always strategically placed between the guides, allowing us to trek at our own pace without ever feeling left behind. This thoughtful arrangement ensured a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.
Overall, I would rate this adventure a perfect 10/10. My experience was so positive that I am already planning to join NHT and Arjun for my next adventure. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a well-organized and enjoyable trekking experience.
S
- Excellent
Mr. Shubham
3rd May 2024
✕
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