Everest base camp trek with helicopter return overview
Experience the ultimate convenience on your Everest Base Camp trek with our carefully curated itinerary, offering an EBC trek with helicopter return option.Designed for those seeking to optimize their time and avoid the arduous hike back to Lukla, this perfect plan allows you to relish the beauty of the popular Everest Base Camp trail on foot and then conclude your adventure with a thrilling Helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey as you soar high above the Himalayan wonders, making your EBC trek truly extraordinary. Everest base camp trek with helicopter return introduces you to the world’s highest peak as well as the culture and traditions of Nepal. This 12 day trek to Everest Base Camp will take you to a height of roughly 5,364 meters. It provides panoramic views of many 8,000-meter-high summits. You can witness the incredible view of Pumori, Lhotse, Nuptse, Lobuche as well as the iconic Mt. Everest itself.
Annapurna Region
Spring (March–May)
16 Days
Moderate to Challenging
Larkey La Pass 5,106M
2 to 10 Pax
Highlights
- Fly to Lukla, the thrilling gateway to the Khumbu region.
- Trek through Sherpa villages, crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
- Discover Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa hub where tradition, culture, and stunning
- Explore Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Himalayan
- Hike to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m/16,676 ft) during your acclimatization in Dingboche.
- Stand beneath Mount Everest (8,848.86 m) and other Himalayan giants.
- Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla.
- Visit the historic Tengboche Monastery, framed by Ama Dablam and panoramic Himalayan
- Fly to Lukla, the thrilling gateway to the Khumbu region.
Itinerary
-
Day 01
Fly to Lukla – Trek to Phakding
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla on a scenic mountain flight and begin your Everest adventure. After meeting your trekking crew, start your trek through traditional Sherpa villages, crossing suspension bridges and following the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding. Trek: 3–4 hours
Trek AreaEverest Region
Suitable SeasonMarch-April
-
Day 02
Arrival in Kathmandu (2000m) & Transfer to the Hotel
Experience the ultimate convenience on your Everest Base Camp trek with our carefully curated itinerary, offering an EBC trek with helicopter return option.
Trek AreaEverest Region
Suitable SeasonSpring (March–May)
-
Day 03
Arrival in Kathmandu (2000m) & Transfer to the Hotel
Experience the ultimate convenience on your Everest Base Camp trek with our carefully curated itinerary, offering an EBC trek with helicopter return option.
Trek AreaPokhara
Suitable SeasonSpring (March–May)
-
Day 04
Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m) & Transfer to the Hotel
Experience the ultimate convenience on your Everest Base Camp trek with our carefully curated itinerary, offering an EBC trek with helicopter return option.
Trek AreaAnnapurna Region
Suitable SeasonSpring (March–May)
Price Included
- Fly to Lukla, the thrilling gateway to the Khumbu region.
- Trek through Sherpa villages, crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
- Discover Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa hub where tradition, culture, and stunning
- Explore Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Himalayan
- Hike to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m/16,676 ft) during your acclimatization in Dingboche.
- Stand beneath Mount Everest (8,848.86 m) and other Himalayan giants.
- Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla.
- Visit the historic Tengboche Monastery, framed by Ama Dablam and panoramic Himalayan
- Fly to Lukla, the thrilling gateway to the Khumbu region.
Price Excludes
- Fly to Lukla, the thrilling gateway to the Khumbu region.
- Trek through Sherpa villages, crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
- Discover Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa hub where tradition, culture, and stunning
- Explore Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Himalayan
- Hike to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m/16,676 ft) during your acclimatization in Dingboche.
- Stand beneath Mount Everest (8,848.86 m) and other Himalayan giants.
- Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla.
- Visit the historic Tengboche Monastery, framed by Ama Dablam and panoramic Himalayan
- Fly to Lukla, the thrilling gateway to the Khumbu region.
- Stand beneath Mount Everest (8,848.86 m) and other Himalayan giants.
Everest Base Camp Trek date and time
Everest Base Camp Trek Route Map
Download Map
Gears & Equipment
Proper gear is key to enjoying the journey comfortably and safely. Below is a recommended list of essential equipment for this tour. Our guides will conduct a final gear check before departure to ensure you are well prepared.
Clothing
- Insulated down jacket (suitable for cold temperatures)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket & trousers
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Fleece or warm mid-layer
- Trekking pants and quick-dry shirts
- Warm hat, sun hat, and neck gaiter
- Gloves (inner + outer recommended)
Footwear
- Sturdy trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
- Wool or moisture-wicking socks
Personal Gear
- Backpack (30–40L) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold conditions)
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Water bottles or hydration system
Personal Care & Accessories
- Sunscreen and lip balm (high SPF)
- Personal toiletries and quick-dry towel
- Basic personal medication
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Reusable shopping or laundry bag
Important Information
- Insulated down jacket (suitable for cold temperatures)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket & trousers
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Fleece or warm mid-layer
- Trekking pants and quick-dry shirts
- Warm hat, sun hat, and neck gaiter
- Gloves (inner + outer recommended)
Stories from those who journeyed with us
FAQs
-
What are the benefits of returning by helicopter from Gorakshep?
The helicopter return saves several trekking days, avoids the tiring descent to Lukla, and provides a breathtaking aerial view of the Everest region, making the journey truly memorable.
-
Is this trek suitable for first-time trekkers?
Yes. While it is a high-altitude trek, the helicopter return makes it more comfortable by reducing physical strain. Basic fitness and proper acclimatization are still required.
-
What is the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?
This trek follows the classic Everest Base Camp route on foot and replaces the long return hike with a scenic helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla, saving time and energy.
-
Do I need prior trekking experience for this trip?
Experience the ultimate convenience on your Everest Base Camp trek with our carefully curated itinerary, offering an EBC trek with helicopter return option.
Similar Trips
Upper Mustang Trek
Mustang region opened to foreigners in 1992, is by far Nepal’s most controlled trekking area. Mustang is...
Saipal Base Camp Nature Trail
This is not just a trek — it’s a journey deep into one of the most untouched...
Kailash and Upper Humla circuit trek
Kailash & Upper Humla Circuit Trek 2026: Start your spiritual journey to Mount Kailash and the remote...

Download PDF