EBC Trek With Helicopter Return

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(1st Day of Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)

Tribhuvan International Airport is well connected and our friendly staff from Himalayan Dream Team will be waiting for you there. Kindly look for “Your Name” or our logo. After meeting, about 40 minutes drive will comfortably reach your hotel.

After reaching the hotel, check in, freshen up, and take some time to rest. If you feel good, you can also step out and explore the nearby areas.

In the evening, you will have the special welcome dinner hosted by the Himalayan Dream Team. Authentic Nepali food will be served, and your guide for trekking will be introduced to you. We'll also provide a brief teaser for the trek.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(2nd Day Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return) )

Do not forget to have your trekking bags packed and ready for the day after breakfast. Today you will have an engaging cultural driving tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu, led by an expert city guide.

✦ Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Holy Swayambhunath Stupa has the distinction of being one of the oldest stupas as well as the sacred site for Nepalese Hindus and Buddhists. It also provides mesmerizing views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. When moving around the stupa you will be greeted by monkeys who inhabit the areas around the stupa.

✦ Pashupatinath Temple

The next stop is Pashupatinath the holiest Hindu Temple in Nepal which is built on the edge of the Bagmati River. This revered place is also a typical Hindu cremation site which is always a striking place to behold the soul of Nepalese culture.

✦ Kathmandu Durbar Square

After lunch today, we shall proceed to Kathmandu Durbar Square which houses an ancient royal palace complex with intricately carved wooden temples around it. The entire area is part of the glorious heritage of Newar civilization and if you are lucky, you will be able to see some locals in traditional costumes which would be great for photographs.

✦ Local Spice and Vegetable Markets – Indra Chowk and Asan

Spend the last part of the day enjoying the local markets of Indra Chowk and Asan. This part of the town is colorful with fresh fruits and vegetables along with lots of spices that are perfect for people who enjoy street photography as well as for those who want to experience a different side of Kathmandu. Later, go back to your hotel and rest and prepare for your trek in the Himalayas.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(3rd Day Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)  

Get ready to put your best foot forward for a trek that includes real steps this time!  

✈️ Important Seasonal Considerations:  

Peak Season: March to May and September to November  

Because of congestion in the Kathmandu District, the Trekking Flight is now operated from Manthali Airport (Ramechhap). As such, we plan set off from Kathmandu in the early morning hours of 1 AM to 3 AM, drive to Manthali for about 5 – 6 hours, then take a flight for about 20 minutes to Lukla (2860m above sea level).  

Off-Peak Season: January to February, June to August, and from mid-winter  

As expected, almost all flights now directly go to Kathmandu from Lukla, without previously stopping at Manthali. The only thing you will be provided is land transfer to the domestic airport from there, which is a 35-minute flight to Lukla.  

🚁 Additional helicopter flight:  

I think for those of you who do not look forward to this long and tedious drive to Manthali Airport, it would be worth it to spend $550 (price based on 5 people sharing) for a helicopter from Kathamandu to Lukla. This is more pleasant and time-saving compared to other choices in peak seasons. 

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(4th Day Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)  

We mark day 4 with an early breakfast in Phakding and begin trekking towards our next stop, well-known Sherpa town and Khumbu Region hub, Namche Bazaar (3,440m). 

The journey is quite adventurous as we trek alongside the Dudh Kosi River and pass through idyllic villages and pine forests. Get ready for crossing some suspension bridges alongside the well-renowned Hillary Bridge, which provides breathtaking views of the waterfall from high above.

We stop at Monjo where we check into the Sagarmatha National Park. Here, we have to show our permits and we then continue through the gorgeous wooded area. Like every trek, this too has thinning air and strenuous workout at higher altitudes. The views, as always, are a treat to the eyes.

There's a final steep uphill hike left and if the weather is on our side, then you will see some beautiful glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, and many other famous peaks.

After an exhausting day, we reach the most happening and largest Town in Khumbu region, Namche Bazaar. As expected from a sherpa town, it showcases steep culture accompanied by vivid markets and majestic views of the neighbouring ranges. Ideal for some well needed rest and further illuminating the process of adapting to higher altitude areas.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return

(5th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)  

As part of rest and recuperation, Namche Bazaar (3,440m) is a marked point on the route as it allows the Trekker to adjust their body to the altitude with the plan of reaching even greater heights later. We won't gain too much altitude from this point, but will hike up to a higher point and come back, abiding by the golden rule of "climb high, sleep low."  

“Sherpa Cultural Museum” is the starting point where we hike up. This place is dedicated for learning the Sherpa people, their mountaineering legacy, and the rich culture of the Khumbu region.  

We then continue our climb towards the world-famous Hotel Everest View (3,880m) from Syangboche Airport (3,780m) , the highest airstrip in Nepal. And during that, we will enjoy panoramic views of some of the most iconic peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.  

Soak yourself in the views and take some well-deserved pictures before heading back down to grab lunch in Namche. The rest of the day is relatively calm as we have a relaxed afternoon ahead of us. Spend the rest of the day strolling through the town’s amazing bakeries, cafes, gear shops, and local farmer’s market. Or if a peaceful rest is what you seek, feel free to enjoy in utter silence.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(6th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return) 

This vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar (3,440m) Tengboche (3,860m), which is home to the most revered monastery in Khumbu region, literally translates to ‘monastery on a hill’.

As we start with a gentle descent along the Dudh Koshi River, beautiful forests of pine and rhododendron pray for our sight. Distant views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku are also ready to enrapture our sight, giving us a sneak peak to the beauty of the Himalayas.

The tranquil village of Tengboche is surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayas and offers panoramic mountain vistas. If time allows, we can join the monks for their daily prayer ceremony which is a spiritual experience reflecting the true essence of this majestic land.

Monastery on a hill is literally what the village Tengboche means. It translates to Khumbu region's most revered monastry which I am sure all of you are super excited to visit.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(7th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)

After spending the night in Tengboche, we prepare for trekking towards Dingboche (4,410m). first we go down to the village "Deboche“, cross the Imja Khola with a suspension bridge and go through the alpine forrest.

Along the way, we see mani walls with sacred buddhist carvings and also have great close views of The Ama Dablam, which is one of the most magnificent peaks in The Himalayas

We now continue to the Sherpa village of Pangboche, where the tree line starts to vanish. Leading toward the Imja valley, the trail starts to ascend gradually toward Dingboche, the picturesque village which is primarily surrounded by towering peaks and vast open terrains.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(8th Day of the Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)  

Today is our second acclimatization day which allows rest and time to heal. Hence the body will heal adjust to higher altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.  

To support this process, we will give a go at Nangkartsang Peak 5083m which has astonishing Ama Dablam views alongside Makalu and Island Peak on a clear day. The climb is optional and the aim is to “climb high, sleep low.”  
Dingboche is at 4410m. When you return, rest and eat something hot or go for a walk around the serene village set in the hills of the Himalayas.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
9th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

As part of the day’s activities, we start with an easy climb from Dingboche (4,410m) towards Thukla, with wide valley views at the step. Taboche and Cholatse, the stunning peaks, rise sharply ahead and we will be able to see them as we ascend.

The trail from Thukla is steeper until us reaching a ridge filled with stone memorials built in honor of climbers who perished in the Himalayas. The memorials adorned with colourful prayer flags, this site is a powerful place to pause and reflect. 

After a short but steady hike across the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, we arrive at the small settlement of Lobuche (4,910m). The best part is we are surrounded by soaring peaks like Nuptse, Lobuche, Pumori etc which we can enjoy after settling down in the evening.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return

(10th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return)

What Day 10 omits is the enormous excitement and contentment the day offers is on reaching Everest Base Camp situated at an altitude of 5,364m.

Commencing from Lobuche (4,910m), we begin a steady hike, following the path beside the Khumbu Glacier. It is a difficult trek, but the views of the mountains Mount Nuptse, Pumori and the frozen landscape around us are of great value. After approximately 2–3 hours, we get to the last settlement before base camp-Gorak Shep (5,164m).

After a short rest and light meal, we carry on towards Everest Base Camp. The trail may be rugged and challenging but the views around of the Khumbu Icefall, glaciers and other towering peaks make it easier. 

Getting to base camp is something one can never forget. Standing at the world’s most extreme altitude with the highest mountain Everest and other Himalayan peaks Bordering You, which include, but are not limited to, Nuptse, Khumbutse and Pumori makes you feel on top of the world. You will probably witness dozens of expedition camps set up during peak climbing seasons and hustle-bustle before summit attempts. 

After we return to Gorak Shep for the night, all the memories captured while taking pictures will be cherished immensely.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return

(11th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)

Today’s agenda features an early morning trek to Kala Patthar (5,545 m ), which is the highest elevation point of the trek. Enjoy a stunning sunrise view of Everest and an unobstructed view of Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and many more from the top.

We head back to Gorak Shep for breakfast and then get ready for our shared helicopter flight to Lukla.

Because of the altitude restrictions, helicopters from Gorak Shep have a limit of 3 passengers. If there are more passengers, a short shuttle through Pheriche will be organized to pick everyone up before flying directly to Lukla.

Flight time is about 20-25 minutes depending on the weather and the size of the group.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(12th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)  

Breakfast will be served at the hotel. We will take a morning flight back to Lukla and then to Kathmandu (or Manthali depending on the season).  

Peak Season - Mar to May and Sept to Nov: flights land at Manthali Airport / followed by 5-6 hour drive to Khatmandu.  

Off Season - Jan to Feb, Jun to Aug, Dec: flights land directly in Khatmandu (approx. 35 mins)  

You will be taken to your hotel in Kathmandu by shared tourist transportation.  

Helicopter Option:  You may upgrade your ticket to a direct helicopter flight from Lukla to Kathmandu for USD 550 per person (5 people share the cost). This is a great way to avoid the long drive from Manthali during the peak season.

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(13th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)

EBC Trek With Helicopter Return
(14th Day of Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return)