Everest Base Camp Trek: Helicopter Return to Lukla

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Helicopter and Mt. Ama Dablam
Everest Base Camp Trek: Helicopter Return to Lukla
Everest Base Camp Trek: Helicopter Return to Lukla
Duration13 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5,545 m
Group Sizeany
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleHeli Trek
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

Overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek and Return Back by Helicopter to Lukla (Everest Helicopter Trek) is a trek filled with adventure and scenic views through a helicopter ride. This trek package is the most demanding and loved by nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers because of the helicopter return to Lukla after days of an adventurous journey.

Along the journey, you will get to witness the scenery of Mt. Everest and its surrounding peaks. This trek is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a travel lover and nature enthusiast to enjoy exotic flora and fauna along with the majestic glacial lakes, rivers, picturesque Sherpa villages, and thrilling trails.

Nothing can beat the experience of a birds-eye view of the Khumbu region with the Everest Base camp trek return by helicopter to Lukla. Your journey starts with a 30-minute scenic flight to the most extreme airport in the world, Lukla. The trek began with a scenic and vibrant walk through the lush green forest of Rhododendron and beautiful Sherpa villages alongside the stunning Dudhkoshi River. 

After that, the trail gradually ascends through the unique Sagarmatha National Park to Namche Bazaar, crossing numerous suspension bridges along the way, climbing on a steep trail, and spending a day in the most lavish and beautiful Shapland in Namche before leaving for the Tenboche monastery in the Khumbu region.

Furthermore, you’ll continue towards Pangboche, Dingboche village, and rest another day before leaving for Base Camp. Continuing hiking above the high altitude takes you to the Sherpa memorial in Thukla Pass, crossing Khumbu Glaciers, Lobuche Village, and finally, you’ll arrive at the last camp, Gorakshep. 

After your arrival in Gorakshep, you will explore the area along with the base camp. The next morning, you will hike to the Kalapatthar viewpoint to witness the panoramic views of popular peaks like Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Island Peak, and many more.

The helicopter will come to Gorakshep to pick you up. From the helicopter, you’ll get to see the stunning vistas of mountains, villages, trekking trails, and landscapes like the bird. That's why we call the EBC with helicopter return from Gorakshep to Lukla a must-do trip that gives you a lifetime experience. You can check out Travel Advice and About Us.

Also, try the Mount Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour 2024. This trek is for those who want to see the stunning mountain vistas but are beginners or are physically unable to do the trek. This trek is quick and easy, and it gives you a beautiful memory that will last forever. So, don't miss this beautiful opportunity. 

in addition, there is another customized package that you may like. I am talking about the luxury Everest base camp trek with a helicopter return. This trek is the addition of luxury and premium services to the classic Everest base camp trekking with a helicopter return. 

If you want to do luxury trekking in the Everest region, we can customize the luxury Everest base camp trek with a helicopter return for you. If you choose us, it's our responsibility, and we promise to provide you with the best Everest base camp trek with helicopter return. This is a beautiful option to enjoy the adventure and thrill, along with the premium facilities and services.

Besides the trek and Heli ride, you are supporting the local economy as well, collecting lifetime memories, and promoting Nepal’s tourism at the same time. This trip is the most exciting and popular in the Everest Region. Mystic Adventure Holidays offers you the different Everest Base Camp Trek packages that you can check out in our trekking in the Everest region section.

Likewise, we also offer the genuine Everest Base Camp Trek costs at an affordable rate. While minimizing the cost, we keep safety as our main priority. To know more in detail about the custom-made Everest base camp trek itinerary or Everest base camp helicopter tour price, feel free to contact us anytime. The below option itinerary skips the day tour in Kathmandu and then finishes the 12-Day Everest Heli Trek.

Also, check out the Everest Base Camp Heli Tour Reviews section to learn about previous trekkers' experiences with Mystic Adventure Holidays. 

Everest Base Camp Heli Trek Highlights

  • A scenic flight to Lukla Airport.
  • Trekking through the alpine forest in Sagarmatha National Park. 
  • Stunning views of the world’s highest peaks like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori, and so on.
  • Acclimatization in the popular Sherpa land, Namche Bazaar. 
  • Get a chance to encounter exotic fauna such as snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, Musk deer, Himalayan monal, and red pandas. 
  • Experience Sherpa culture, practices, and traditions, along with local, delicious, and nutritious food and their hospitality. 
  • Experience Tibetan Buddhism and ancient monasteries like Tengboche Monastery and Pangboche Monastery, along with Buddhist shrines, prayer flags, mani walls, and stupas. 
  • Experience the breathtaking helicopter ride above the Khumbu region. 
  • Hike to the Kala Patthar Viewpoint (5,545 m) for panoramic views of mountains, glaciers, and valleys. 

WHY CHOOSE MYSTIC ADVENTURE HOLIDAYS FOR EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK: HELICOPTER RETURN TO LUKLA ?

3S: Safety, Success, and Satisfaction

Booking an Everest Base Camp Trek: Helicopter Return to Lukla package with Mystic Adventure Holidays offers superior service and benefits. Here’s why:

Planning your trip with Mystic Adventure Holidays means paying the lowest cost with no commission fees. Additionally, you'll benefit from:

  • Client Safety: Our trips are organized with the utmost safety in mind.
  • Best Price Guarantee: Ensuring you get the best value.
  • Free Transfers: Complimentary airport-to-hotel and return transfers in a private vehicle.
  • Expert Guides: Trained, government-licensed local guides with extensive route knowledge.
  • Support for Locals: Helping local communities earn a living through tourism.
  • Health Monitoring: Oximeters to monitor oxygen levels during high-altitude EBC treks.
  • Medical Preparedness: Guides equipped with medical kits to handle any situations that may arise.
  • Essential Gear: Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets.
  • Free Storage: Secure storage at our office for extra luggage during your tour.
  • Convenience: Duffel bags for transferring items to be carried during the journey.
  • Porter Service: A free porter to help carry your heavy bags.

By choosing Mystic Adventure Holidays, you ensure a safe, successful, and satisfying adventure in the Himalayas.

Trip Gallery
Itinerary

At Mystic Adventure Holidays, our intention is always to follow the Everest Base Camp Trek: Helicopter Return to Lukla Itinerary. However, due to the nature of travel, we may need to make slight changes because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather-related cancellations or delays of domestic flights, natural disasters like landslides, newly enacted laws, political unrest, or trekkers' health issues, including altitude sickness. While the itinerary is brief and fixed, it also includes flexible areas. Therefore, we advise travelers to allow a few extra days in Nepal.

We highly recommend that you arrive one day before the trip starts to rest and purchase any necessary clothing, gear, and equipment for the hike. You can also use this extra day for a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, acclimatizing, or rescheduling international flights in case of potential weather delays or domestic flight cancellations.

We appreciate your flexibility and look forward to providing you with an unforgettable adventure!

It is our regular day-to-day itinerary if you are looking for a customized itinerary. Don't hesitate to contact us. 

Trip PlanExpand all

Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city, is located in a valley surrounded by picturesque green hills on all sides. Assume you enter through the flight (Airways). The Mystic Adventure Holidays representative will be in the airport terminal with our company flag. Nepali CultureThe traditional greeting is to press one's palms together in front of the chest and utter "Namaste" (which means "I greet the god within you"). Depending on the level of the person you are welcoming, you may greet them with a nod of the head or a bow, as well as khadas (Buddhist shawls) or garlands and a crimson tika (tilak) on your forehead. Garlands and tilaks are used in Nepal to signify honor when someone comes.to wish you a hearty welcome. After welcoming you, our representative will drop you off at your hotel and assist you with the check-in process. If you come by road, our representative will greet you at your location.

There will be no activities scheduled for you. You can relax, and if you wish to explore, you may do so on your own. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu

Before visiting Nepal, you may have learned how to greet someone with a 'Namaste' or thank someone with a 'Dhanyabad'. However, it's important to note that Nepal is an ancient civilization with its own set of ideologies and mannerisms. Here are some social etiquettes specific to Nepal that can help you avoid being disrespectful or humiliating in public. Nepal's roads are unpredictable. Roads are usually congested, resulting in numerous traffic backups. Most places lack traffic lights, forcing drivers to rely on hand gestures from police officers. Visit religious places and UNESCO-listed places.

  • Swoyambhu Nath Stupa
  • Boudhnath Stupa,
  • Pashupatinath Temple,
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square,
  • Patan Durbar Square
Max Altitude: 1,350 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6km

Today's sightseeing tour in Kathmandu will give you a good insight into Nepali art and architecture. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath. All of these monuments hold great importance in the history of Nepal. Later in the evening, you will meet with the trek guide and have a quick briefing session about the trek.

 

Max Altitude: 1,350 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: Full day

After early morning breakfast, you will take a short 30-minute flight to the starting point of the trek, Lukla. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayan mountains. Upon landing at the Lukla airport, meet with the porters and begin descending towards Phakding village. It will be a three-hour trek today. The trail goes along the Dudh Koshi River and lush forests. From Phakding, you will continue trekking towards Monjo, the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park.

 

Max Altitude: 2,840 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: 25-30 min flight & 3 hr trekDistance: 146 km

We will register our permits and begin trekking towards the Namche Bazar. By crossing the Hillary Bridge, you will enter the national park. The trial offers frequent glimpses of Mt. Everest. Along the way, you pass by many small villages and waterfalls. The route to Namche Bazar steeply ascends through dense forests, crossing many suspension bridges and streams.

 

Max Altitude: 3,440 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: 3-4 hoursDistance: 9 kilometers

Altitude: Everest View Hotel, 3,962 Today is our first rest day to acclimatize our body with the elevation. We will spend the day exploring the village and going on a half-day hike to The Everest View Hotel, which offers breathtaking views of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. Likewise, we can also hike to Khumjung village, where you can visit the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region. Later, spend the evening mingling with Sherpas.

 

Max Altitude: 3,880 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: Full day

The trail from Namche Bazar ascends through beautiful rhododendron forests and picturesque mountain villages. You can see a range of mountain views along the way. The view of Mt. Ama Dablam and Mt. Thamserku is impressive as you approach Tengboche. The trail passes the Imja Khola and takes you to your last destination for the day.Here, you will get to visit the largest monastery in the Khumbu region, the Tengboche Monastery. In the evening, you will join Puja.

 

Max Altitude: 3,875 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 10 kilometers

If you can wake up early, then catch the sunrise over Ama Dablam before moving towards Dingboche. Trust us, it will be one of the best sunrises you will see in your life. The trail from Tengboche crosses Imja Khola and passes by the hamlet of Pangboche. You can see many colorful prayer flags, mani walls, chortens, and prayer wheels along the way. The trail goes through Orsho, and you will reach Dingboche village.

 

Max Altitude: 4,410 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 12 kilometers

Today is a crucial acclimatization day to adjust your body to the altitude and let you rest before pushing further toward Everest Base Camp. You will explore the village and hike to the nearby viewpoint to witness breath-taking panoramas of Mt. Kantega, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and many other mountains

 

Max Altitude: 5,080 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: Full Day

The air from here onwards begins to thin as you gain altitude. Likewise, the landscape becomes more bare and desolate. The route gradually climbs towards Lobuche, a fine village located at the foot of Lobuche Peak.

 

Max Altitude: 4,910 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 11 kilometers

It is a big day. The trail finally takes you to the EBC. Leaving Lobuche behind, you will ascend and reach Gorak Shep. Making your way through the Khumbu Glacier, you will walk on boulders, loose rocks, and small craters. 

Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, you will feel a great sense of achievement and see mountaineers getting ready to push toward the top of Mt. Everest. You will not see the top of Everest from its base camp because other giant mountains cover it. Spend some time here and descend to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

 

Max Altitude: 5,364 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard TeahouseDuration: 7-8 hrsDistance: 10-11 km

We wake up early in the morning to increase our chance of clearly seeing Mt. Everest. The ascent of Kalapatthar, or 'Black Rock', will offer the best views of Everest! Once at the top, you will get a 360-degree view of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mt. Pumori (7169 m), Mt. Everest (8848.86 m), Lhotse (8516 m), the Tibetan peak Changtse, Mt. Nuptse (7861 m), and countless other smaller peaks.

This also marks the end of our journey. You will now be boarding the helicopter to Lukla and seeing the Himalayas from above. fly back to Lukla

 

Max Altitude: 5,545 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch& DinnerAccommodation: Standard LodgeDuration: 5 km hike & 30 min flightDistance: 24 km

Another scenic flight from Lukla will take you back to Kathmandu. The flight will be short. You will have an entire day in Kathmandu to explore tourist sites, shop, and relax. Farewell dinner in the evening.

 

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: 25-30 minDistance: 136 km

Here concludes the journey. Today, it is time for you to return home. Our Mystic Adventure Holidays airport representative will send you off 3.5 hours prior to your arrival in Kathmandu, following a traffic jam that we observe, and upon your arrival. will assist you with check-out and transport you to the airport before the time of your flight. Time has come to bid Dieu. We dress you in traditional khada in anticipation of your safe journey and good fortune.  It's time to say farewell. We put you in traditional khada for good luck and a safe flight. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to plan your trip. I am glad to be part of your Nepal journey. I hope you have a wonderful time in Nepal. see you again, Nepal, once, but never enough. Have a safe flight back to your home. Best wishes from Mystic Adventure Holidays.

Max Altitude: 1,350 m Meals: BreakfastDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6km
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Cost Details
Included
  • Airport Pick-up and drop-off by private vehicles ( both domestic and international arrivals and departures)
  • Welcome dinner with a culture show program in a typical Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu City Tour with tour guide and private transportation
  • 3X-night Night Hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu (Aapasara Boutique Hotel) or (Kantipur Village Hotel) similar standard 
  • Full board meals (9 days breakfast, lunch, and dinner), 3 x tea or coffee per day during the trekking, and (day 12: one Breakfast at Lukla) 
  • Round-trip flight tickets from Kathmandu to Lukla Village or from Ramechhap to Lukla (during the peak season)
  • Best available tea house accommodations with twin sharing room during the trekking
  • Professional, experienced, certified, and English-speaking trekking guide for your entire trekking
  • Gorkshep to Lukla Helicopter fee
  • A porter for the two trekkers (an extra 25 USD per day for a solo traveler)
  • Food, Accommodation, Salary, Equipment, Medicines, and insurance for trekking staff
  • Seasonal fruits during the treks after dinner
  • All the necessary permits and entrance fees during the trekking (National Park Entrance + Municipality Entrance)
  • Our trekking leader or guide is carrying a medical kit.
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays T-shirt Trip Map, Nice Design Cup as a Souvenir
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays provides a duffel Bag for putting your things while carrying by Porter (Porter Carry max. -25kg)
  • Trip achievement certificate 
  • All the government taxes and operating charges of the company

 

Excluded
  • International flight tickets 
  • Kathmandu Valley Excursion entrance fees 
  • Excess baggage charge
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal trekking equipment and gear
  • Nepal Arrival Visa: learn more about the visa for Nepal 
  • Tips for your trek guide (Expected at the end of the trek)
  • Tips for porters and drivers (expected)
  • Your travel and rescue insurance, Helicopter rescue, and any insurance-related things (Travel and rescue insurance (Mandatory))
  • Mineral water, soft drinks, hard drinks, showers in the mountains, laundry, and your expenses during the entire Nepal trip
  • Extra-night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary (payment once when starting trip, no refund)
  • Donations for local people, hospitals, and schools (not compulsory)
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Compulsory to Tips For Guide and supporting staff (minimum . 10% of Paying amount)
  • All the expenses, i.e., those not mentioned in the included section
  • Noted: In case you want to cancel or return something that happened on the mountain, you don't get a refund Check the terms and conditions 
Route Map
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek
Altitude Chart
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek
Add-ons & Options

Add-ons & Options

Mystic Adventure Holidays: We've been pioneering Everest adventures for decades. As the competition intensifies, we're thrilled to introduce a range of exclusive add-ons to take your Everest expedition to the next level!

Porter at USD 220: Our expert porter will manage your gear, leaving you free to soak up the wonder of the Everest region. 1 porter can be shared between two persons; keep in mind that he can carry a maximum of 25 kg.

Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Flight at USD 450 Extra: Begin your adventure with ease by taking a scenic helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Avoid long waits and enjoy stunning aerial views as you journey to the Everest region.

The cost of a helicopter ride from Lukla to Kathmandu can vary based on several factors such as the time of year, demand, and specific helicopter service providers. As of the most recent information available, prices generally range from $450 to $650 per person for a one-way flight.

Choose our tailored add-ons and experience the Everest region in all its glory. We go the extra mile, so you can go the extra height! Book your adventure today and make every step an unforgettable tale of triumph.

How do you get add-ons?

To get add-ons, you can follow these straightforward steps:

  • Step 1: Click Book This Trip
  • Step 2: Select your departure date
  • Step 3: Add the number of travelers
  • Step 4: Select required add-ons from the listed options
  • Step 5: Fill up the form and provide the correct information 
  • Step 6: Proceed to payment
Essential Info

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek Difficulty 

The Everest Base Camp helicopter trek is one of the most enjoyable and thrilling adventures done in the Everest region due to its high-altitude areas. The EBC heli trek involves the helicopter return from Gorakshep to Lukla, which means it is half as easy as the classic EBC trek.

The overall trek difficulty is calculated only for the trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp. Even if there is a return to Lukla via helicopter facility, you still have to make all the necessary preparations along with the acclimitization strategies. 

The Everest Base Camp is difficult for beginners and moderate for experienced trekkers. During the trek, you have to walk at altitudes between 4000 and 5600 meters. To cope with the altitude-related issues at these altitudes, acclimation is necessary, even for those with previous experience. Read the fitness requirements for trekking in Nepal for detailed information. 

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek Permit 

After decentralization, you no longer need a TIMS card to trek in the Everest region. But you will need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit for trekking in the Everest region areas like Everest Base Camp. Both of these permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Monjo.

*Note: If you are trekking from Jiri, then you will need an extra permit called the Gaurishankar Conservation Area permit, which costs $3000 per person.

Best time to go on Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 

Autumn and spring are the best seasons to explore the Everest Base Camp Heli Trek and enjoy the trek to the fullest. These seasons have moderate climates and stable weather. Along the way, you can see the beautiful flowers blooming during the spring season. 

Autumn adds the warmth of festivity to the environment as the Nepalese celebrate their biggest festivals in this season. Trekking Everest Base Camp in winter is possible, but you have to be well prepared to face cold and possible trail blockage. Monsoon is not a good time of the year to trek to EBC.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek Accommodations

The Everest base camp trekking routes are developed due to the increase in tourists and progress of the tourism industry. Many luxury hotels and budget-friendly teahouses are providing lodging services along with delicious foods and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the area. 

Our Everest Base Camp Trek package includes a lodge stay. The rooms will be small, with limited furniture and a double bed. But you have to share the washroom with other guests in some of the lodges. You will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner based on your package and can choose the food items available on the menus of the respective lodges.

The dishes that you will get include rice, curries, momo, noodles, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, soup, toast, eggs, meat, veggies, porridge, bakery items, tea, coffee, Thukpa, etc. 

Tips to make the journey smooth in the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek:

  • Doble checks all the gear and clothing before embarking on the trek.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle and fill it at the lodges or tea shops along the route. It will save you a lot of money and also keep the environment clean.
  • There is a lack of ATMs beyond Namche Bazar, so withdraw enough cash to use further on the trail.
  • Services like WiFi, hot showers, and charging booths cost you extra money in some places. So, carrying some amount of cash is useful. 
  • You can carry a Nepali SIM card to use cellular data on the way. But there is no guarantee of stable networks all the time. 
  • Carrying extra batteries or a solar charger can help you during the trek and save you from extra expenses.
  • If you are satisfied with the service of the staff or guide, you can tip them. If you are confused about tipping the guide or porter, we recommend: USD 100 to the porter & guide, USD 5 to the tour guide, and USD 2 to the driver.
  • Always walk on the mountainside, especially when yaks and mules are passing by.
  • Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. Hydration is the key to avoiding altitude sickness.
  • Always say namaste to the locals, touching both palms and bending a little.
FAQs

Yes, you can take a helicopter to Everest Base Camp. Check out Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour and Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek to see the itinerary with helicopter drop-off and pickup at the base camp.

We take all possible precautions to proactively ensure the safety and wellness of our trekkers, but rest assured that our guides are trained and experienced in dealing with emergencies. Each guide is trained in first aid. In the case of altitude sickness, you will immediately be taken to a lower altitude. If necessary, your guide will utilize your travel insurance information to call a rescue helicopter, and you will be flown to Kathmandu or Pokhara for medical attention.

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