Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 11 Days Best Itinerary

Highlights of Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 11 Days

A short picturesque flight to Lukla and an adrenaline-pumping landing at the iconic Tenzing Hilary Airport
Extraordinary Viewpoints ascension opportunity including Everest View Hotel, Top Danda, Nagarjung Hill to witness the panorama of the incredible mountains
A historic conquering of Kala Patthar at 5550 m
The best panoramic views of Everest, Nuptse, Cholatse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and many more
Leaving your footprints at the legendary Everest Base Camp
Adventurous and stylish ride in a helicopter from Gorak Shep to Lukla
Exploration of Pangboche Monastery and its cultural heritage
Experiencing the high-altitude life
Meeting with other adventurers

Trip Overview

Join Hill Sherpa for an exotic adventure known as Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 11 Days which will take you on an epic journey of Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar within a matter of nine days. This is your chance to follow in the footsteps of some of the most courageous and adventurous souls in history.

Through our Everest Base Camp Heli Trek, you will have the unique chance to explore one of the earth’s most impressive natural treasures and glimpse the modest but strong Sherpa communities that call these mighty mountains home.

The famed Everest Base Camp nestles in the Everest Sagarmatha National Park of Solukhumbu region in eastern Nepal. On this remarkable journey, you will reach an impressive elevation of 5364 m when you mark the Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 11 Days with your footprints.

Although the camps are made of just rocks and snow, it is a remarkable site that offers some phenomenal vistas of Khumbu Icefall, Nuptse, Pumori, and Khumbutse. The next day’s climb to Kala Patthar is one hell of a journey when you reach the respectful elevation of 5550 m.

The summit offers the unbelievably magical sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche, Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse, and many more Everest base camp treks,

Everest Base Camp Heli Trek is as the cherry and the cake, after this marvelous sighting, you will return to Lukla in the grandest style via a private helicopter. You will be walking through the itinerary and clouds with the massive mountains of the planet beneath your feet from the Everest region.

Our 11-day Everest Base Camp Heli Trek will also allow you to get acquainted with Buddhism and the culture of the rich Sherpa people, who live in harmony with nature. Colorful Buddhist temples hide the secrets of these ancient civilizations, which we will certainly explore in this tour.

Overall, our incredible tour is certainly the ultimate family getaway designed to delight every individual. No matter the time or the season, we are prepared to take you on an extraordinary experience at Everest Base Camp Heli Trek, but the magical experience will be most pronounced in spring and autumn.

How does our journey begin?

Our 11-day Everest Base Camp Heli Trek begins in Kathmandu, where we get to know the capital of Nepal. Then, we continue up to a higher altitude by taking a flight to Lukla, and then our trekking journey begins. Past the authentic villages of Phakding, Namche, Phortse, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Goraskhep, we will arrive at Everest Base Camp.

Then, the following day, we hike up to the summit of Kala Patthar and return to Lukla by flying in a helicopter.

Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 11 Days Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, Pick up / transfer to Hotel

Namaste, Tashi Delek, and Welcome to Nepal! We are delighted to be your trusting companion for your 11-day Everest Base Camp Heli Trek. Our local guide with a Hill Sherpa sign will cordially receive you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will get acquainted with the rest of the group at the hotel.
Please rest properly after the long flight. Our guide will brief you before the hike in the evening and explain how each day will go. Please retire early to charge up for the hike towards Everest Base Camp.

Duration

30 mins

Max Altitude

1400 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 02: Kathmandu to Lukla then trek to Phakding

In the early morning, we will head to TIA for a 36-minute flight to Lukla. This is the starting point of our trek to Everest Base Camp Heli Trek. Already on the plane, we can see Everest and Kanchenjunga rising towards the sky.

Our strong Sherpa crew will welcome us at the Lukla Airport, where we can witness for the first time the impressive view of Mount Kongde Ri (6187 m). After our breakfast in Lukla, we will begin the trek along the Dudh Koshi River, walking past the charming street of the town.

As we approach the last border of Lukla, our guide will get the Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit.
We will now hike along the relatively easy and straightforward path to reach Phakding. We will cross the small villages of Cheplung, Chaurikharka, and Thadokoshi, where the massive Mount Kusum Kangaru (6367m) will rise before our eyes.

We will now gently climb down to Ghat Village with the beautiful company of Mount Khumbila (5761 m). We will then reach Phakding, where we will stop for the night in a nice teahouse. The day ends with a delicious Nepali dinner.

Important Point
Sometimes, due to unfavorable weather conditions, less visibility, and high air traffic at TIA (especially in spring and autumn months), the direct flight to Lukla from the capital will be diverted to Ramechhap/Manthali Airport. We will drive to the domestic Ramechhap/Manthali Airport in private transport for four hours and fly to Lukla for 20 minutes.

Duration

flight 36 minutes / 3 hrs trek

Max Altitude

2650 m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar

After breakfast, we will follow the road along the Dudh Koshi River with the mesmerizing view of Mount Thamserku (6609 m) in the front. The small town of Benkar will greet us and lead us to Monjo, an entry point to Everest National Park. We will then climb to Jorsalle, where we will stop to eat a good lunch.

After lunch, we will continue to walk gently for about 30 to 40 minutes to reach the famed Hilary Suspension Bridge. As we cross the bridge, we can see the sacred mountain of Taboche, 6495 m. We will continue ascending for about an hour to reach the Everest View Point, locally known as Top Danda (3140 m). For the first time, Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse will reward us with their beautiful views.

Now, we will hike along a steep path up to Namche Bazaar, the capital of the Sherpas, and the gateway to Mount Everest. It is full of people, small shops, and hotels. Here, we will rest in a nice lodge and enjoy completing the first two days with flying colors.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

3440m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 04: Acclimatization Hotel Everest view

Today is the first rest day in the Khumbu region, which is a must as we have already crossed the altitude of 3000 m. We will follow the major principle of acclimatization and hike to the 3880 m high world-famous Everest View Hotel.

We will climb steeply for over an hour to reach the Hotel. The route is equally marvelous and offers a splendid panorama of Kongde Ri, Khangtega, Pachermo Peak, Tangerito Peak, Samdur Peak, and many more.

At the hotel terrace, we will have a fantastic panorama of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Lhotse, Taboche, Cholatse, and Nuptse in the background as we enjoy a cup of tea. After the tea break, we will now hike down to Namche and explore its markets, museums, and monasteries.

Duration

2-3 hrs

Max Altitude

3,880m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 05: Trek to Phortse village

Shortly after breakfast, we will set off on a lovely hike to Phortse. First, an easy trail will lead us to Sanasa, and then we will tackle the steep climb for about an hour and forty minutes through pine and rhododendron forests and reach the most beautiful Mong La Danda at 3973 m. The magnificent views of Cholatse, Taboche, and the entire Khumjung village will make us stop here for lunch.

Now, we will march downwards for about 35 minutes to reach Phortse Thanga. From here, we will cross the hanging bridge over Dudh Kshi River and go up for about two hours till we reach Pheriche Village- a charming village to spend the night.

Duration

6-7 hrs

Max Altitude

3860m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 06: Trek to Dingboche

Leaving Phortse, we will take the high trail, which is considered one of the most beautiful trails with outstanding views of huge mountains and deep valleys. Dingboche, located at the foot of the soaring Ama Dablam mountain, is another attraction. Today, we have great chances to witness musk deer, mountain goats, and several different bird species.

But first, we will walk past the dense jungle of rhododendrons and ascend for about three hours to reach Upper Pangboche. This small Sherpa town hides the 400-year-old monastery that has preserved the Yeti Scalp for many years. With a bit of luck and request, we may be able to see the scalp.

After the monastery visit, we will resume our uphill walk to Shomare, where we will pause for our lunch break. After the best lunch with the company of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Nuptse, we will move forward and step into the Imja Khola Valley.
The trail from here is now easy, and gentle climbing for a while will lead us to Dingboche, where we will spend two nights to acclimate ourselves.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

4,410m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 07: Acclimatization hike to Nagarjung peak

Since Dingboche is at an altitude of about 4,410 meters, it is important to rest and acclimatize here to prepare for reaching higher altitudes. We will, therefore, make a morning excursion to Nagarjung Peak for about three hours. This peak is also locally known as Nangkartshang Hill Viewpoint, famed for the remarkable views of Makalu, Baruntse, Island Peak, Chopola, Ama Dablam, Ambigetshen, Thamserku, Khankaru, Taboche, Cholatse, Lobuche peak, Nirukhang, and Amphu Laptse.

Upon returning, we may also visit the Nangkartshang monastery. Now, we will walk down to our lodge and rest our bodies for the night.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

5,083m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 08: Trek to Lobuche

Today is another beautiful walk, with mountains like Cholatse, Lobuche, and Pumori unfolding before us in this contrasting and spectacular landscape. After breakfast, we will leave Dingbcohe and walk along the stony trail to Dughla. The massive peaks of Taboche (6367 m) and Cholatse (6335 m) will greet us as we have lunch here.

Then, we will ascend vertically to the top of the prominent Pass of Thuk La at 4830 m. it is the memorial plateau where hundreds of memorials were built in memory of people who met tragedies in different mountains of Everest. The Pass also offers the breathtaking vistas of Ama Dablam, Lobuche, and Lobuche Peak Base Camp.

We will now climb down from the Pass and cross the vast alpine pastures. Then, we will overcome the steep ascents along the glacial moraine to reach Lobuche.

Duration

4-5 hrs

Max Altitude

4910m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 09: Trek to Gorak Shep and continue trek Everest Base Camp, then return to Gorak Shep

In the early morning, we will leave Lobuche and walk for three hours to Gorak Shep, the last accommodation point before Everest Base Camp. We will scramble over the Khumbu glacier and watch the impressive mountains of Pumori, Mahalangur, Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Nuptse, along with the northern slope of Everest.

Then, a short, gradual ascent will lead us to Lobuche Pass, known as Thangma Riju in Sherpa. It offers a 360-degree panorama of all the surrounding peaks. We will now tackle the vertical climb along the Changri Glacier and watch the prominence of Kala Patthar for the first time.

We have now arrived in Gorak Shep, which is a spectacular village surrounded by Pumori (7145 m), Lingtren (6697 m),
Nuptse (7745 m) and, of course, Everest (8848 m). Here, we will leave our luggage, eat our lunch, rest for a while, and then ascent to Everest Base Camp.

Traversing the previous Gorak Shep Lake, we will climb vertically to the top of the ridge and reach the legendary base camp of Everest. Please keep in mind that Everest is not visible from here, but the spectacular mountains of Nuptse, Lhotse, Khumbutse, and Pumori are in no way inferior.

After coffee and photos in Base camp, we turn down to Gorak Shep.

Duration

7-8 hrs

Max Altitude

5,364m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 10: Early Morning Hike To Kala Patthar. Fly to Lukla by Helicopter, then fly to Kathmandu via domestic airplane

Now, it’s time for our epic climb towards Kala Patthar. It is at this moment that we will realize the dream and experience the sensational views around the Himalayas. This hike is challenging, but the view from the top surpasses the wildest imagination.
We will start early at 4 am and climb the glacial terrain for about two to three hours to reach the top of the Kala Patthar. The tough climb will be eased with the incredible views of Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse, while Everest will play a peek-a-boo with us.

However, it can’t remain hidden. From the top, we can watch the world’s best sunrise view over Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Amadablam, Lobuche, Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse, and many others.

After our historic, successful ascent of Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, it’s time to bid farewell to the mountains and their villages. We will first make our way to Gorak Shep, have breakfast, and collect our backpacks. Our helicopter will then pick us up and return us to Lukla.

From Lukla, we will board a domestic flight to TIA of Kathmandu. Our Kathmandu crew member will pick us up at the airport and drive us to our hotel.

In the evening, we will enjoy a farewell dinner with our team and the cultural dance show.

Duration

2 to 3 hours

Max Altitude

5,550m

Meals

Farewell Dinner

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu International Airport

Today, it is time to fly home. An unforgettable adventure and ten fantastic days have come to an end. We will drive you to TIA about three hours before your flight time. Thanks for this adventure!

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Excluded

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

Airport picks up / drop off by private car.
Kathmandu sightseeing with a tour guide by private car.
Domestic flights from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu by private airport transportation.
Flight to Lukla from Gorakshep by Helicopter (15 Minutes)
Accommodation, 3* star hotel twin sharing room 2 nights in Kathmandu with breakfast.
All meals during the trekking, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea.
Complementary fresh fruit after dinner.
Accommodation, standard hotel during the trek.
Everest Sagarmatha National Park entry permit & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality fees.
Government licensed holder and speaking English guide.
All staff Wages, food, drinks, accommodations, and insurance.
One strong sherpa helper for carrying your baggage and 1 porter for 2 clients.
Hill Sherpa Trekking first aid kit by guide.
Water purification tablets for tap water, ensure safe drinking water throughout the journey.
Helicopter service will covered by your travel insurance, in case of Emergency.
All government taxes and official expenses.
A sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and trekking poles are provided by Hill Sherpa Trekking but should be returned after the trek (if needed)
Oxy meter for checking pulse and oxygen level every day.
The assistant guide will be provided for groups sizes above 7 people.

What is excluded?

International airfare tickets.
The entry visa fee is obtained after arriving at the international airport in Kathmandu Nepal.
Additional accommodations, food, and drinks in Kathmandu if you stay an extra day.
Your personal medical & travel insurance.
Dessert, sweet items, chocolate, cake, pie, pudding, and any extra expenses during the travel.
Excess baggage & luggage weight is 10-15 kg maximum.
During the trek hot showers, mobile, camera, power bank for any battery device charging, and Wi-Fi internet.
Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fees are 30 USD per person
Tips for guide & porter.

Departure Dates

Date	Duration	Price	Availability	Join
Sep 03, 2024 - Sep 14, 2024	12 Days	US$ 1230	2 seat	Book Now
Sep 27, 2024 - Oct 07, 2024	11 Days	US$ 2449	2	Book Now
Oct 09, 2024 - Oct 19, 2024	11 Days	US$ 3390	3	Book Now
Oct 19, 2024 - Oct 29, 2024	11 Days	US$ 2650	2 seat	Book Now
Oct 31, 2024 - Nov 09, 2024	10 Days	US$ 2560	2 seat	Book Now
Dec 04, 2024 - Dec 15, 2024	12 Days	US$ 1160	6	Book Now

Note:

We also operated private trips.

Trip Information of Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 11 Days

Best Time

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most popular and best times for Everest Base Camp Heli Trek due to the favorable weather conditions and stable temperatures.

The weather is usually mild and stable, and there is less risk of precipitation. Daytime temperatures can reach around 15-20 °C and drop below freezing at higher altitudes. Nature blooms with colorful flowers and rhododendron forests, and the view of the mountains is generally clearer. However, there may be more hikers on the trails during this period.

Trekking to Everest Base Camp in the winter (December to February) is more challenging and requires more experience and equipment due to the significant amount of snow. The summer/monsoon (June-August) is not recommended for Everest Base Camp Heli Trek due to cloudy days that can cancel your flights and helicopter rides.

Elevation and trekking distance

The Everest Base Camp stands at a respectable elevation of 5364 m above sea level, separated from the charming Kathmandu Valley by a considerable distance of 200 to 300 km. The highlight and the maximum altitude we will reach in our 11-day Everest Base Camp Heli Trek is at Kala Patthar, where we will be at 5550 m above sea level. We will spend the night at the impressive altitude of 5180 m at Gorak Shep.

The beginning point of our trekking expedition is Lukla, which is 135 km from Kathmandu by air. The Everest Base Camp is only 65 km away from Lukla and can be covered by foot within a nine- to ten-day journey.

Maximum/Minimum walk per day

On our 11-day magical journey to Everest Base Camp, our hiking days will only be nine days when we traverse varied terrain, cross long bridges, and overcome glacial mountains. The nine-day hiking journey will require us to cover 10 to 12 km each day with approximately 4 to 7 hours of walking. However, our tenth day will be quite short, exciting, and very rewarding as we make it to the top of Kala Patthar and witness the magical sunrise over the mighty mountain massifs. The incredible reward within a 2 to 3-hour journey is genuinely monumental.

The toughest and most exciting part will be on day nine when we set out to walk for 7 to 8 hours along the challenging glacial rocky path to Everest Base Camp from Lobuche via Gorak Shep.

Difficulty and Acclimatization

Our 11-day Everest Base Camp Heli Trek is a physically challenging trek classified as a medium-difficult trip in Nepal. When we return, we will not complete the circular route but will ride in a Helicopter to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu, thus ending our trip in a day. Still, the nine days of trekking will require you to be in good shape and overcome the high-altitude atmosphere.
Our team has been very careful when planning the itinerary for this program, adapting our tour for everyone’s health. With rest days at Namche, a hike to Everest View Hotel, and a climb to Nangarjung Hill at Dingboche, your body will be well-adapted before you reach Everest Base Camp.

Can a beginner trek to Everest Base Camp?

The trek to Everest Base Camp is suitable for anyone with good physical fitness and a reasonable level of endurance, as the tour involves several hours of walking daily and some steep climbs. The trek days span nine days, so it is important to have good stamina to cope with the long hikes and the gradual elevation gains.

You should also be able to adapt to increasing altitude. Altitude sickness is a real risk when reaching heights above 5,000 meters. It is important to follow the recommendations for gradual elevation gain.

You should also be mentally prepared to deal with challenges that may arise along the way, such as fatigue, unexpected weather conditions, and terrain conditions.
When you join our organized tour, our experienced guide, who is an expert in navigating the area, will accompany you, ensuring your safety and contributing to a more enjoyable and successful trip.

Preparation and training

Everest Base Camp trekking with Heli return means walking many meters up and down at high altitudes. Therefore, you should be in good shape as possible. Of course, you don’t have to be an elite athlete, but you must start with some training and preparation.

Prepare at least three months in advance by hiking and wearing hiking boots, as they should be well-worn when trekking in the Everest region. Please carry a backpack and practice hill training and using a stair machine.

High altitude will also not be as difficult if your fitness is good, as this gives you better oxygen absorption capacity. Therefore, do at least one interval session on the bike a week and strength train with the help of a personal trainer who can plan the correct exercises that suit your goals.

Alternate Routes

If you are looking for a more convenient option, consider a one-day helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Of course, this option will be more expensive, but if you are in Nepal for just one day, you certainly cannot miss out on an opportunity to see Everest up close.

During this extraordinary trip, you will get to stop over at Lukla Airport for a brief time to explore the town and a 10 to 15-minute excursion at Kala Patthar. Upon returning, you will have about a 1 to 2-hour stop at Hotel Everest View at Syangboche of Namche Bazaar.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness can affect you on the Everest Base Camp trek even if a Helicopter return is incorporated into the tour. Since we will be traversing the high altitude zone, altitude sickness can occur to anyone regardless of age or fitness.

However, our program has paid careful attention to acclimatization days and walks, so the symptoms of altitude sickness, if they occur, can be mild and may include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and trouble sleeping.

To avoid altitude sickness, please ascend the altitude slowly and give the body time to adapt to the changed conditions. Drink plenty of fluids to keep the body hydrated and combat dehydration, which can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness. Be sure to drink enough water and avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as they can increase the risk of dehydration.

Take Diamox if needed to focus on the trip rather than the physical discomforts. If you show symptoms of altitude sickness, it is crucial to stop the ascent and rest at the current location. If symptoms worsen or do not improve after rest and hydration, it may be necessary to make a controlled descent to lower altitudes, where symptoms usually subside.

Transportation, Accommodation, Food and Drink

As a trusted and well-known travel agency in Kathmandu, we always aim to deliver the best to each of our guests. We want everyone to feel like part of the family. Therefore, we offer all the services, including transportation, accommodation, food, and drink.

We offer private vehicles for pick-up and drop-off services and transportation to the airport. Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu, along with a Helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla, are also included in our program.

You will stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with complimentary breakfast every morning. During the trek, you will live in cozy little mountain lodges, which is simple, but everything needed to recover after a day’s hiking is available. Rooms have two beds, and there is a restaurant in each tea house that serves delicious Nepali cuisine. The farewell dinner program will be organized on the tenth day of our program.

Communication, Gadgets charging, and Internet/WIFI

The NCELL network works better than the NTC mobile network in the Everest region. Both networks offer 4G service, which is fast and reliable for internet usage.
The lodges have been rebuilt and are well-equipped with WiFI and a continuous power supply. You can charge your electric gadgets and use the internet at an additional fee. You can also purchase an Everest Link prepaid card for internet connectivity.

Permits

As your representative in Nepal, our guide will obtain the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit in the last town of Lukla.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Base Camp?

A base camp is a temporary camp established at the foot of a mountain or an expedition destination. It is a starting point for climbers and provides a place to rest, organize equipment, and plan their ascent.

How do you handle emergencies during the Everest Base Camp trek?

If any group member has to go down, a guide always follows. We have plenty of support staff on our hikes, so if an accident should occur, the victim will be very well looked after by knowledgeable and experienced staff.

Our guides handle emergency situations; in serious cases, we use helicopter evacuation covered by your insurance.

Every year, our guides undergo a medical course, which each individual must pass in order to continue guiding. Our guides carry a full medical trekking kit and are well-trained in how to use it.