Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek 9 Days

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Trip Duration 09 Days
Group Size 2-12 people
Maximum Altitude Kalapathar (5,644m)
Difficulty Grade Moderate
Start & End Point Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Seasons Mar-May, Sept-Nov

Trip Highlights of Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek 9 Days

  • Scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
  • Walk through the ecologically enriching Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Explore the Everest Base Camp, the base of the world’s highest mountain.
  • Visit the biggest monastery in the region, Tengboche Monastery.
  • Witness a wide range of Himalayan sceneries.
  • Take a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu, offering bird’s eye views of the Himalayan landscape.

Overview of Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek 9 Days

The Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is a remarkable and exciting journey. It leads you to the base camp of the World’s tallest peak, Mount Everest. This is an exceptional option for those who have limited time. This journey is for those who cannot trek to the Everest Base Camp. This tour takes you to one of the highest peaks on earth in a short period.

Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is one of the most renowned trekking tours. Every year, thousands of visitors enter Nepal hoping to tick off the point to reach here. They have a bucket list of stepping on the base camp of the tallest peak. Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, must be on your list if you are an adventure lover.

But, as alluring as the trek might seem, it requires a lot of effort, time, and energy. So, many people need help to provide the necessary things. The Everest Base Camp trek with Heli return is the best option for such trekkers. The tour can be completed in 9 days. Once you reach the top, you will not have to worry about descending the same way back.

The trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. It is a small mountain town situated at an altitude of 2,800 meters. Lukla is the gateway to the Khumbu region and the starting point of the trek to the Everest Base Camp. From Lukla, you will trek to Namche Bazaar, a lively town at 3,440 meters.

Namche Bazaar is the hub of the Khumbu region. It is also the biggest and most commercialized town in the area. It is a perfect place to acclimatize to the high altitude. You will spend a day exploring the local market and nearby villages in Namche Bazaar. Staying in Namche Bazaar will help you acclimatize to the altitude.

The next destination of your Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is Tengboche. It is a scenic village famous for its monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. After Tengboche, you will trek to Dingboche. It is another beautiful village with stunning views of Mount Ama Dablam. Here, you will have the second acclimatization day of your trek.

After Dingboche, the trek further leads you to Lobuche. It is the last village before the Everest Base Camp and is famous for its stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier. The next day, you will trek to the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek at 5,364 meters.

You will have time to explore the base camp. Similarly, you can capture the moments the majestic peaks surround you. After spending time at the base camp, you will have a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu. Flying over will give you sights of the breathtaking Himalayas from a different side.

In conclusion, the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is a thrilling and unique journey. It is a distinctive way to experience the magnificence of the Himalayas. So, it is worth witnessing the dazzling beauty of Mount Everest.

Itinerary of Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek 9 Days

DAY
01

Day 01: Early Morning Flight to Lukla and Trek up to Phakding

This is the first day of your Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. You will begin the day early in the morning with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. It is a short flight of around 40 minutes. You can see stunning sights from the flight of the wide range of peaks. The flight below gives you an outstanding view of small settlements and landscapes.

Once you land in Lukla, you will begin hiking toward Phakding. Before you start the walk, you can shop at Lukla. Several gear shops, ATMs, and pharmacies are available here. The hike to Phakding takes you on a trail alongside the river. It usually takes 3 to 4 hours of walking. Overnight stay in Phakding.

Multiple 40 min, 3-4 hrs trek
Accommodation Guesthouse
Meals Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Lukla (2860m), Phakding (2,652m)
DAY
02

Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Today, the trail takes you to the town regarded as the gateway of the Everest region, Namche Bazaar. It is also the biggest town in the area and the most commercialized one. The trek for the day begins by crossing a suspension bridge. You walk alongside the Dudhkoshi River.

You will pass through several forests. You come across the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint in Monjo. Here, you must show all your permits and get them checked. As you resume the walk, you can get sight of several peaks towering above the small settlements.

You walk around 4 to 5 hours through the forests, rivers, suspension bridges, and villages. You will finally arrive at Namche Bazaar and spend the night. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

Walking Day 4-5 hrs
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Namche Bazaar (3440m)
DAY
03

Day 03: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

This is the first acclimatization day of your Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. Giving your body much-needed time to adjust to the higher altitude is crucial. Today, you can explore around the town.

You can explore local cafes, restaurants, shops, and traditional museums. You can also go for a short hike around the nearby hills. All these will help to get acclimatized to the altitude better.

You can walk up to Everest View Hotel. The hotel is at one of the highest points. Or you can explore the Sherpa villages like Khumjung(3,780m) and Khunde(3,860m).

There are several more options for you, like exploring Syangboche Airport. After roaming the village and exploring, you will return to your hotel for the night’s stay. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Namche Bazaar (3440m)
DAY
04

Day 04: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

Bidding farewell to Namche Bazaar, today you will head toward Tengboche. The walk begins with an uphill climb. Then, it proceeds to a downhill trail. You can view several giant peaks on the way as you walk.

As you continue walking, you will soon encounter a lush green forest. Once you cross the woods, there is a suspension bridge. The trek further takes you through uphill climbs and offers stunning scenery.

After a total walk of around 5 to 6 hours, you will finally arrive in Tengboche. It is home to the biggest monastery in the region, Tengboche monastery. Overnight stay in Tengboche.

Accommodation Guesthouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Tengboche (3867m)
DAY
05

Day 05: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche

It is time to leave the beautiful village of Tengboche behind and head toward Dingboche. On the way, you will also get to explore the Pangboche village. You pass through diverse landscapes and lush green forests.

The walk takes around 5 to 6 hours to arrive in Dingboche finally. You can further see the mani walls, prayer flags, and view of several mountains on the way. Overnight stay in Dingboche.

Walking Day 5-6 hrs
Accommodation Guesthouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Dingboche (4,630m)
DAY
06

Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Today marks the second acclimatization day of the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. As you have crossed the height of 4000 m, you need to rest to adjust.

You can hike around the village today to get a close-up view of mountains like Lobuche East (6,119 m), Lobuche West ( 4,940 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), etc. You can also go around the village to explore and learn about the local culture and way of living. Overnight stay in Dingboche.

Accommodation Guesthouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Dingboche (4,630m)
DAY
07

Day 07: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche

It is time to begin yet another day filled with spectacular sceneries and thrill. Today, you start trekking toward Lobuche from Dingboche. You will first reach the village of Dughla before arriving in Lobuche.

You can witness the panorama of several mountains, such as Mount Ama Dablam, Mount Cholatse, and Mount Lhotse. You continue to trace your steps toward Lobuche. After a total walk of 5 hours, you will reach Lobuche, where you will spend the night. Overnight stay in Lobuche.

Walking Day 4-5 hrs
Accommodation Guesthouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Lobuche (4,950m)
DAY
08

Day 08: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, then to Everest Base Camp, and return to Gorakshep

It is a big day for you. You will finally be heading to Everest’s base camp after a week of trekking through villages. The walk starts early in the morning as you head to Gorak Shep. A few hours of walking on a rugged trail leads you to Gorakshep. You will rest briefly before you resume the walk to Base camp.

From the Gorak Shep, it takes a few more hours of a trek through the uphill and rugged path to reach Everest base camp. You will spend some time there to relish the magnificent sights of the peaks. You can capture the moment before you descend to Gorakshep. Overnight stay in Gorakshep.

Walking Day 6-7 hrs
Accommodation Guesthouse
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude Everest Base Camp (5364m)
DAY
09

Day 09: Trek from Gorakshep to Kalapathar and back; Return to Kathmandu via Helicopter from Gorakshep

This is the final day of your Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. You will begin the day early in the dawn to catch the sunrise view from the highest vantage point, Kala Patthar. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy a close-up view of the wide range of peaks, including Mount Everest.

Once you enjoy the sights, you will hike back to Gorakshep. You will take all your belongings and prepare to return to Kathmandu by helicopter. The helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Lukla is down with the best aerial view. From Lukla, we take a regular flight to Kathmandu.

During the flight, you can view the Everest mountain range all along. The experience of flying above those giant peaks is a surreal feeling. This will mark the end of your 9 days adventurous trek to the Everest base camp.

Helicopter
Meals Breakfast & Lunch
Altitude Kalapathar (5,644m), Kathmandu (1,400m)

Fixed Departure Dates

Note: We can run a trip for solo travelers, couple, friends and family with children. Our private trips are running everyday. If you are looking for a group joining trip please contact us.

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Essential Information - Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek 9 Days

Best time for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek

The best time for the Everest Base camp heli return trek is autumn and spring. Autumn runs from September to November. At the same time, the spring season runs from March to May.

During the autumn, the weather in the Himalayas is dry and stable. Visitors get to see clear skies, offering you excellent visibility of the mountains. The temperatures during this season are mild during the day. This makes it easier to trek in the high altitude.

They are keeping all the advantages of trekking during these months aside. Remember, this is also one of the peak seasons for trekking in Nepal, including the Everest region. As a result, the trails can be crowded.

Yet, the views of the mountains and the scenery are breathtaking. Autumn is also a great time to experience local festivals and culture.

Another best season to embark on this Trek is the spring season. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies. Another perk of trekking is the spring, a time of the blooming flowers and vegetation. Full blooms provide a colorful and picturesque view.

The temperatures are also mild during the day. It helps make it convenient to trek at higher altitudes. Like autumn, spring is also the peak trekking season in Nepal. So, you might encounter quite a lot of trekkers on the trail.

Furthermore, there is a higher chance of encountering snow at higher altitudes. Due to this season, trekking can be a little challenging. Even so, the views of the mountains and the colorful scenery make an excellent time for hiking in the Everest area.

As for the winter season (December to February), the weather can be harsh. Trekkers encounter heavy snowfall and low temperatures, making it challenging to trek. The trails can be slippery, and the view can be poor due to fog and snow.

But, the winter season can be an excellent time for experienced trekkers. It is a more challenging and adventurous experience with few trekkers on the trail.

During the monsoon season (June to August), the Everest region experiences heavy rainfall. This occurs in landslides, too, making it challenging to trek. The trails can be muddy and slippery due to the heavy rain. It’s best to avoid this season for this Trek.

Thus, remember that the weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. So, prepare for weather conditions, including rain, snow, and wind, while trekking.

In conclusion, spring and autumn suit the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. The months of September to November and March to May. This time, the weather is dry and stable, with mild temperatures.

The Difficulty of the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek

The Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is moderate to challenging. It requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina. Trek consists of walking on rocky and uneven terrain; you must be physically healthy.

The altitude plays a significant part in the difficulty level of this Trek. The maximum height you will reach during this Trek is 5644m, which is very high. Thus, taking it slow and walking at your pace is essential to avoid altitude sickness.

The Trek also involves walking for several hours, averaging 5-6 hours daily. It would help if you were prepared for long days of walking or hiking. Ensure that you have proper trekking gear and essential items. Always carry comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothes, and a good-quality backpack.

You can take a few hikes and treks at a higher altitude before the Everest trek. It ensures a fun and good experience during the tour. It will make it easier for your body to adapt to the environment.

The Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is challenging while ascending hills. But, the Trek includes Heli return while on your way back. It makes the journey a little more accessible than other classic Everest treks.

As mentioned earlier, it is one of the most rewarding and distinct treks in the Everest region of Nepal. Yet, it is essential to have the right mindset. Prepare for the challenges of the Trek, including altitude sickness and changing weather. Also, the long hours of walking might be tiring.

Accommodation and food during the Trek

Accommodation

You will have basic but comfortable accommodation facilities during the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. You will be staying in tea houses or lodges along the trekking route. All the teahouses and lodges here offer simple accommodations and meals.

The facilities usually include private or shared rooms with twin or double beds. Some also have dormitory-style accommodations. The rooms are basic and may have attached bathrooms in the lower part of the region. Yet, as you move to higher elevations, the space may come without attached bathrooms. Shared bathrooms in the hallway are available.

The tea houses provide blankets and pillows. But we recommend you bring sleeping bags for extra warmth and comfort. The lodges and tea houses also have shared dining rooms during the Trek. You can enjoy the meaks and talk and socialize with other trekkers.

Also, the level of facility and service you want to experience highly depends on your budget. Some luxury lodges and hotels are available along the trekking route. These teahouses offer more comfort and luxury. They include private bathrooms, hot showers, and high-quality food.

The tea houses and lodges along the route provide basic but comfy lodgings for trekkers. It would help if you prepared for basic amenities, including shared bathrooms and simple meals. Some lodges might charge extra for extra facilities like hot showers and charging.

Food

The food you will get during the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek includes several varieties. You can get Nepali cuisine, local Tibetan food, and some Western food. The food is usually straightforward but filling and healthy. The food focuses on providing the necessary energy and nutrition for the Trek.

Most tea houses and lodges offer Nepali cuisines such as dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables) for lunch. You can eat other options like momos (dumplings). Or you can get Western-style dishes such as pasta, pizza, and sandwiches. The meals are usually served in the tea house’s dining hall or common area. They heat the meal on a stove or fireplace.

Breakfast options include eggs, bread, porridge, pancakes, and tea or coffee. It usually depends on the teahouse. Dinner usually consists of various rice, noodles, and vegetable dishes. It also includes noodles, meat, or fish options such as chicken curry, yak steak, or trout. You get both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options on all the lodges and teahouses.

The food options and quality can vary depending on the location and altitude. Fresh products might not be available at higher altitudes. So, the options may be more limited at higher altitudes.

You can carry personal snacks and energy bars to supplement your diet during the Trek. Remember to stay healthy and hydrated during the tour. It would help if you drank plenty of water and fluids along the trail.

The food during the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is simple but tasty. You get various options to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. Furthermore, it would help if you did not consume alcoholic drinks during the Trek. It can affect your walking pace.

Reviews on Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek 9 Days

5.0

Star Star Star Star Star
Based on 300+ Reviews


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Peter Coxz
Australia
Best guide and fantastic trek
Star Star Star Star Star

I was impressed and happy with the email communication before the nine-day Everest base camp trek. Puru always answered emails and was very helpful. Basu was a fantastic guide.

He always looked after us, especially when we got sick. He has good trust and confidence in him.

I was impressed that we got better rooms in the better tea houses/lodges. I am happy that Basu tried to get the toilet/bathroom in our room.

Perfect tour and the “best” guide. Bikram was also a good porter-very polite.

A big thank you

Peter Cox
Australia

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Ashok S. Prabhu
USA
Best Everest base camp trek 9 days with Heli return.
Star Star Star Star Star

Excellent coordination by the Above The Himalaya company Trekking. Guide Purna Was excellent. Always attentive to the needs of the Everest base camp trek.

In my case, he helped me with my black pan by carrying my day pack & always being with me when I was slow. He helps with reasonable accommodation. He offered sound advice on all overs.

I want to recommend him to anyone. Porter Pratap was excellent. I had bags delivered & picked off on time and never complained! Fantastic person!

Ashok S. Prabhu
USA

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