Trip Overview
Highlights
- A short Everest base camp trek with plenty of acclimatization days.
- You may save the three days of walking by taking a helicopter from Kala Patthar to Kathmandu.
- A great EBC route for hikers with little time to experience the highlands.
- Get to see the breathtaking grandeur of the eastern Himalayan mountain ranges as seen from both the ground and the sky.
- Trek through picturesque Sherpa villages and rhododendron woods.
- Become acquainted with the local mountain communities and learn about their distinctive way of lifGo to Hotel Everest View as a diversion.
- Scenery of all kinds and glacier walking.
- Catch a stunning dawn from Kala Patthar from the Everest base camp while standing there.
Itinerary
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Day 01 : International Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport (KTM) you will be greeted by Sawasdee nepal’s representative. You will be then transferred to Hotel . After check in, you can either take a rest, hang around in the city, it all depends upon your interests and condition. In the evening we will organize a “Welcome Dinner” at an excellent traditional Nepalese Restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal.
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Day 02 : Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding
Upon our early breakfast, we will be escorted to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), a gateway destination from where our trek begins. After an adventurous 40 minute flight above the breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. This is one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating in a dramatic landing on a hillside surrounded by high mountains peaks. Upon arrival at Lukla, we meet our other crew members and after some packing and arrangements, we start our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. To assist in acclimatization, we only have a short hike today. However, if interested in additional activities we can take a side trip to a nearby monastery. Overnight in Phakding.
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Day 03 : Phakding - Namche Bazaar
Today’s our trek starts in the morning after breakfast. The walk today is pleasant with few short uphill and downhill with multiple crossings over Dudh Koshi River and magnificent view of Mt. Thamserku (6,608m/21,675ft) from the Benkar village. We cross more bridges and reach entrance of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, where our trekking permits are checked in order to keep record of trekkers and local trekking staffs as well. A descend and a gradual walk brings us to Jorsale, the last village until Namche Bazaar. The walk is enjoyable through the river bed and we reach Hillary Suspension Bridge. Now, as we climb up hill towards Namche Bazzar, closer and magnificent sight of Kwangde Peak, its sister peaks, Kusum Kangaru, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Tawache, and many other fabulous mountains will be viewed closely. We stop at Chautara to admire the view. Finally, we reach the colorful village of Namche Bazzar, the main gateway of Khumbu region. Overnight in Namche Bazzar.
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Day 04 : Namche Bazaar: Rest day
This is the first of the three scheduled “acclimatization” days. Health experts always recommend us to stay active and moving during the rest days instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day hike to Thame or visiting Khunde or relaxing and exploring Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazzar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery and a colorful market each Friday evening and Saturday. If we trek a few hundred vertical feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides will take us to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarter of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plant and animal life of the Everest region. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
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Day 05 : Namche Bazaar - Tengboche
Upon breakfast in Namche, we set out towards Tengboche, enjoying superb view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam and close up view of Thamserku. Our trek follows more or less smooth trail with few ups and downs which will not bother us as the magnificent view of the Himalayas keeps our company all through the journey. Along the way, we can spot wildlife musk deer, a herd of Himalayan Thar and multicolored pheasants. The trail goes gradually down up to Kayangjuma. The path eventually reaches Sansa, which is the major trail junction to Gokyo valley and Everest Base Camp. The track then follows through the pine forests and after we cross the prayer flags festooned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, we reach Phunki Thenga, a small settlement with a couple of teahouses and a small army post amidst the alpine woods. After having a relaxed lunch at Phunki Thenga, we gear up for a slightly tougher climb through the pine forests before we reach Tengboche. Tengboche is a great place for close up views of Mt Ama Dablam, Mt Nuptse, and Mt Everest, and it has the biggest Buddhist Monastery of the Khumbu region. We pay our visit to the monastery the same day at around 3 pm to witness the ceremony in the principal and popular monastery of Everest region. Overnight stay at a lodge at Tengboche.
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Day 06 : Tengboche - Dingboche
Early morning fabled scenic beauty of Tengboche takes our breath away. The mountain panorama includes ranges of Kangtega, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Taboche, Kwangde, Tengboche, Lhotse and Nuptse. After snapping pictures, we start the day journey through the trial that follows through Imja Khola upstream. Descending rapidly from the Tengboche meadow to the river bank, the track traverses a deep forest of birch and rhododendron with magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. As we reach Deboche, a charming place amidst the woods. Upon reaching at this juncture, we pay our visit to Buddhist nunnery. Upon climbing up we come across few Chortens. Upon reaching Pangboche we are amazed at the dramatic views. We further might visit Upper Pangboche to best view the mountains. The trail eventually climbs to Shomare. We notice decrease in tree line after Pangboche and upon reaching Shomare the terrain changes dramatically to rolling arid stretch and an alpine terrain with patches of scrub and isolated pastures. As we reach Orsho the pyramidal peak of Pumori emerges above the mountains ahead. We finally reach cold and windy settlement of Dingboche overlooked by Chortens and prayer flags finally for the night’s rest. Overnight at Dingboche.
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Day 07 : Dingboche Rest Day
Another rest day at Dingboche for acclimatization and a local hike.At Dingboche rest day to enjoy gorgeous views of the mountains as well as forAcclimatization, take a short hike above Dingboche and Imjatse valley for grand Panorama of surrounding mountains including Mt. Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Nuptse,Amadablam’s North Face with Island Peak or Imjatse Himal, free afternoon.
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Day 08 : Trek to Lobuche 4,890 m - 05 hrs.
Starting with a gentle climb to a high ridge, and then following a pleasant main trail to reach Thugla. A few houses serve as Tea Houses here, where the massive Khumbu glaciers melt into a raging river.
There is an excellent spot for lunch. In the afternoon climb a steep ridge to the pass known as Thugla. Here you can see tombs and memorials of mountaineers who ascended Mount Everest or other nearby peaks. The rest of the hike is easy on gentle trails to Lobuche. Here you stay in one of the most luxurious lodges at this high altitude with breathtaking views of Nuptse and Lobuche peaks.
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Day 10 : Lobuche - Gorak Shep - Everest Base Camp - Gorak Shep
The trail to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We pass through the pyramid sign post. Ahead on the trail we see crest of north ridge of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. A small ascent would take us to Thangma Riju from where we perceive 360 degree vista of snowy mountains. Climbing steeply up to the top through the torrent of Changri Glacier, we catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar, a grey-green knoll beneath the Mt. Pumori. As we reach Gorak Shep, we will find snow-capped mountains looming all around us including the top of the world – Mt. Everest. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, we come through the Indian army mountaineers’ memorials. Only upon reaching the Everest Base Camp do we really appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer’s tents stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the Spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. Everest actually is not visible from here. By now we have met the ultimate objective of our trip.
However, the sunset view from Kala Patthar is more admirable than the sunrise view, so it is suggested to visit Kala Patthar today during sunset. As the setting sun’s rays strike the snow capped mountains the resulting scenery is indescribable. For those trekkers who wish to continue to Kala Patthar, our guides and Sherpas coordinate in hiking to Kala Patthar for amazing sunset view today rather than waiting until the next day. Overnight in Gorak Shep at a local lodge.
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Day 11 : Gorak Shep - Kala Patthar - Gork Shep
We start early in the morning to catch the dramatic views from Kala Patthar witnessing the first light of day shining on Mt. Everest. However, we need to get prepared for an early morning, dark and cold temperature (-10 to -14 C) departure beforehand. Further, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself emerging between the west shoulder crest and Nuptse. During the ascent to Kala Patthar we can pause to catch our breath at several outstanding view points to snap pictures. After several hours of ascent, we will be Kala Patthar. From this juncture, we scramble to climb the rocky outcrop near to the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags. As we reach the top, we sit on the Kala Patthar where our eyes rook taking in the unbelievable Himalayan Panorama, wandering from one mighty massif to another. We take as many pictures as we can and take the in view with our mind’s eye to last lifetime. On being back to Gorak Shep, we have breakfast and wait other participants to return back.
Those participants who plan to visit Everest Base Camp today will have early breakfast to start early as Everest base camp hike takes longer time (4 – 5 hrs) than the Kala Patthar hike. Upon return back to Gorak Shep, the group will have lunch together.Overnight in Gorak Shep at a local lodge
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Day 12 : fly to Kathmandu by Helicopter
Morning (4 am) climb Kalapathar at 5,545 m and then fly to Kathmandu by helicopter. Ride to Lukla, refuel the helicopter, and continue to Kathmandu. Overnight at the hotel.
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Day 12 : Final Departure
The journey within the mountains of Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but we just trade emails to travel companions and organize our photos. If we have more time we can do some shopping or sightseeing. At last approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight, a representative from Sawasdee Nepal escorts us to the airport. On our way to home we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure trip in the wonderful country of Nepal.
What's Included
- All airport and hotel transfers
- Accommodation in Kathmandu room with breakfast
- Welcome and farewell dinners
- All accommodation and 3 meals a day during the trek
- Helicopter fee
- Domestic flights and airport departure taxes
- An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader and Sherpa porters to carry luggage including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
- Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
- All necessary paper work and permits (National park permit, TIMS )
- A comprehensive medical kit
- All government and local taxes
Included
- Nepal Visa fee (bring small denomination USD cash and two passport photographs)
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu(and also in the case of early return from mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Excess baggage charges,Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
- Tips for guides and porters
Excluded
Equipment List
Usefull Information
Fixed Departure
Start Date | End Date | Space Left | Price | Discount | |
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05/10/2023 | 30/12/2023 | 2 | 3000 | 2600 | Book Now |
Trekking Video
Faq
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What is the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?
This trek is a modified version of the traditional Everest Base Camp trek. It involves trekking to Everest Base Camp via the same route as the standard trek and then returning to Kathmandu or Lukla by helicopter, allowing trekkers to save time and energy.
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How long does the trek take?
The duration of the trek can vary, but it typically takes around 10-12 days, including the trek to Everest Base Camp and the helicopter return.
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What is the cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?
The cost can vary depending on factors Sawasdee Nepal offers on this package, the services included in the package, and the time of year. It's important to choose a reputable agency such as Sawasdee Nepal to ensure a safe and well-organized trip.
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Do I need special permits for this trek?
Yes, you will need the same permits required for the standard Everest Base Camp trek. These include the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. sawasdee nepal will typically arrange these for you.
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What is the best time for this trek?
The best times for this trek are the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally clear, and the views are stunning.
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Do I need to be an experienced trekker for this trek?
While you don't need extensive trekking experience, it's essential to have a reasonable level of physical fitness and be prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking. The trek involves walking for several hours each day, and altitude-related issues can affect anyone.
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Is it safe to fly back in a helicopter?
Flying back in a helicopter is generally considered safe. However, weather conditions in the Everest region can be unpredictable, and flights may be delayed or canceled due to bad weather. Sawasdee Nepal will monitor weather conditions and ensure your safety.
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What should I pack for this trek?
You should pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a down jacket, rain gear, a good quality backpack, trekking poles, and other essential trekking gear. It's advisable to consult with Sawasdee Nepal for a detailed packing list.
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Can I do this trek independently, or do I need a guide and porter?
While it's possible to trek to Everest Base Camp independently, having a guide and porter can enhance your experience and make the journey more comfortable. They can assist with navigation, carry your heavy backpack, and provide valuable insights about the region.
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Do I need travel insurance for this trek?
Yes, it's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes and emergency helicopter evacuation. Check the terms and coverage of your insurance policy to ensure it meets your needs.
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Trek Details
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Best Seasons September to December, March to May
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Group Size 2+
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Duration 11 Night/12 Days
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Maximum Altitude 5364m.
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Trek Difficulty Moderate
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Accommodation On Lodge
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Transportation Domestic Flight/ by land