Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek (Heli flight back to lukla)

"Experience the thrill of Everest Base Camp Trekking with a Helicopter Return."
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Everest Base Camp Everest Base Camp ViewEverest RegionEverest KalapattharEverest ViewWay To Phereche
Good to Know
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5545 m
  • Group Size 2+
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu
  • Trip Ends Kathmandu
  • Group Style Group and private
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Season March-June and September- December

Highlights

  • A wonderful opportunity to get closer to the  World's Highest Mountain Mt. Everest (8,848 m).
  • Feel a sense of calmness and peace while walking through the trails covered with dense forests and wide species of flowers.
  • Get a bird's eye view of the Himalayas and its surrounding peaks from the high-flying helicopter.
  • An insight into the spiritual center at Tengboche.
  • A chance to get to know the Sherpa people and their traditional way of life and culture.
  • Observe the fantastic Khumbu Icefall and Khumbu Glacier one of the famous glaciers of the Himalayas.
  • The closest view of the Himalayas is with dramatic landscapes of high snow mountains and green hills.

An Advantage Of Booking a Trip with Trekking Planner Nepal.

  • All airports pick up drop by private vehicle (for both international and domestic flights).
  • First aid kit box.
  • Trekking Planner’s sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirt, cap, and duffle bags for porter, city, and trekking route maps – if necessary.
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).
  • We use an oximeter to check your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate, and we provide oxygen.
  • Sim cards are provided by our company for travelers, so there won’t be any networking issues.

Important Notice

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has implemented new rules for helicopter landing at Kalapatthar. In a shared helicopter, there are either 5 passengers or 2 passengers, and the cost is split, and in the case of 5 passengers, the helicopter doesn't land. The cost must be split among two passengers for landing at Kalapatthar.

In a private helicopter, if there are 2 passengers, the helicopter lands, and in the case of 5, it doesn't land. There must be either a single passenger or two passengers for the landing at Kalapatthar.

In both sharing and private helicopters the helicopter lands at the Everest View Hotel for breakfast.

Introduction: Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek (Heli return to Lukla from Gorakshep) 2024/2025

Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the best combo trekking journeys filled with high-flying thrills and an overland adventure. It is an ideal mix of exciting trek that takes you to Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Pattar on foot and then a leisurely helicopter flight from Gorek Shep to Lukla.

This extraordinary trek is best suited for trekkers who have limited time but want to explore the Everest Base camp and its surrounding area. Similarly, trekkers looking to experience Everest both from the land and the air can also fulfill their long-awaited dreams.

From Gorak Shep we take a short helicopter ride back to Lukla. This is one of the most scenic helicopter flights that go over through Kala Pattar and Mt Everest Base Camp. If you trek back from Gorek Shep to Lukla will take you about 3 days but the scenic short flight will take about 10 min to reach Lukla.

Everest Base Camp Trek with helicopter return to Lukla is a journey, you have a few acclimatization days to give your body to adjust to the altitude. You will be acclimatizing in the Sherpa village called Namche Bazar as well as Dingboche. On these days you hike up to a couple of hundred meters and back which will rely on help to adjust to the altitude.  

During your trekking journey, you will be greeted by splendid snow-covered mountains. The natural beauty of this trek is amazing as it comprises the world-famous Khumbu Icefall and Khumbu Glacier.

Besides that, the Khumbu Valley is blessed with diverse topography, exotic terrains, and an ever-changing climate. On the trekking trail of Everest, you will also get to meet people from different ethnic groups. Their warmth and generosity filled with kindness will make you feel at home away from home.

Everest Base Camp trekking trail goes past the dense forest, Sherpa village to the base camp. It is a trek that can be completed in a quick time whereas others take a couple of days more to complete it.

This exciting whirlwind of an adventure takes you to the quaint atmosphere far off from the city sound here alongside spectacular views.

This is a wonderful package to have a faceoff with the Himalayas added with a helicopter ride back can join this trip. We guarantee you that, this will be one of the best experiences that you ever had while making it to the Everest Base Camp ever.

What does a rapid Everest base camp trek with heli return mean?

Rapid Everest Base Camp doesn't mean trekking to Everest rapidly; it means hiking to the Everest base camp shortly. Trekkers will reach Everest's base camp in 8 days. On the ninth day, early morning, trekkers will take a helicopter ride back to Lukla from Gorakhsep. This way, trekkers can complete the trek in nine days and finish the trip quickly without walking around on the same trail. The other benefit is that trekkers can spend the remaining days in Kathmandu in luxury the way they want to and get a bird's eye aerial view from the helicopter flight.

everest-ama-dablam

Where Does Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek Begin and End?

The Everest Base Camp Short Rapid Trek begins from the capital city of Kathmandu. The scenic flight takes you across to the small Himalayan town of Lukla. Once you are here you will start your trek towards reaching the village of Phakding.

Leaving Phakding behind you then take to the trial that reaches you to Sherpa inhibited village of the famous Namche Bazaar. This is an incredible village of Khumbu filled with excellent mountain views, culture, and historical wonders. You will acclimatize here for a day take a rest and explore if you feel like it.

The next day the walk takes you ahead on a scenic trail to reach beautiful Tengboche, surrounded by green vegetation as well as snow-capped mountains including Mt Everest. As you walk you will come across tall tree lines with an array of peaks with views of Mt. Everest and magnificent Ama Dablam.  Here you will visit the all-important Tengboche Monastery; one of the biggest and most famous Buddhist monasteries in the Khumbu area.

A move on from Tengboche Monastery will take you towards exciting tree lines, pure wilderness, and windy landscapes. Dingboche is the next destination where you will be heading for. Due to its high altitude, the climate of Dingboche is always cool. The trail that you take is blessed with splendid views of the mountains in the backdrop always giving you a feel of having the mountain extremely close to you.

Further, as you go you will be reaching Lobuche and then Gorakshep. The day you hike from Lobuche to Gorek Shep you hike to Everest Base Camp (5364m) in the afternoon, the main target place on this journey. The next day an early morning final climb from Gorak Shep will then reach you to the all-important Kala Patthar known for its fantastic views of mountains.

Once you are on the top you will be fascinated by the close views of the massive Khumbu Ice-Fall and glaciers. Standing tall at the height of 5,545 m facing the breathtaking panorama of peaks with Mt. Everest and Mt. Pumori at a mere distance is a rewarding encounter.

After spending quality time around the scenic places of high Khumbu, you descend back to Gorakshep. From here you then board a Helicopter for a flight to reach back at Lukla which ends your high-flying adventure into the Everest Base Camp. From Lukla, you board a domestic flight that takes you to Kathmandu. It is a fantastic trekking journey with valuable moments which will certainly make this Short Everest Base Camp Trek with a helicopter return is a memorable one.  

Best season for a rapid everest Trek with Heli Return to Lukla.

Generally, the months ranging from March to May and September to November are the best times for doing this trek. Especially in March to May wildflowers bloom in plenty making it a very refreshing environment for trekking. Also, the morning stays clear with bright sunshine till afternoon and a bit overcast conditions tend to take place only late in the afternoons.

The months of October to early December are the second best time to be here for trekking. As the mountain views are clearer. However, the temperatures drop down to minus degrees Celsius in the morning and night. Also, there is every chance of snowfall in some high areas en route to Everest Base Camp. Despite this, the temperatures during the daytime are still comfortable and are a good time for trekking on Everest.

What kind of food do trekkers get to eat during Everest Base Camp Trek?

During trekking in the Everest Base Camp area, you get to choose various kinds of foods from the lodge/tea house menu. It consists of soups, steaks, sandwiches, Momo, macaroni dishes, pizzas, etc. The tea houses where you stay provide a food menu where you can pick your choice and give the order to your guide. It is advisable to include light foods during lunchtime as it makes you feel lighter and easy while you walk.

For high altitudes, we always recommend garlic soup which is a natural means of preventing altitude sickness along with the Nepalese staple diet of Dal Bhat. Over the years it has been one of the nourishing light and healthily trekking foods and continues to be.
Physical Fitness level, Medical, and Health required for Trekking to Everest With Helicopter Return.

The trail of Everest is not a strenuous trekking trail. Trekkers will be regularly hiking for 4 to 6 hours on average at the trekking trail of Everest. Trekkers and travelers having an average level of fitness can easily complete this trek. If you have any kind of previous trekking experience or regular exercise it will be an added advantage but not compulsory.

However, this trek is not recommended for individuals who are suffering from chronic ailments or have heart or lung diseases. If you suffer from health conditions, it is better to make the trip short by increasing the number of days required to reach Everest base camp by making the camps short.

What are the permits required for Rapid Everest Base Camp trekking?

The Everest Base Camp lies in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The campsite is labeled under the protected region by the government of Nepal. So, to enter the protected region various permits are required. The Permit for the Everest Base Camp trek can be obtained from Trekking Planner Nepal for individuals or groups. Similarly, the permits of Everest Base Camp are compulsory documents that are thoroughly checked along the Rapid Everest Base Camp route by the officials, and if these documents are missed entry inside the area is restricted. The following is the list of documents are permits that are essential for the Everest Base Camp trek along with the cost of permits required to purchase these documents.

Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit

The Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit replaces the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card, which the Khumbu Municipality authorizes. The cost to obtain the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit is as follow:

For foreigners, including SAARC countries (for the first four weeks)

NRP 2,000 per person

Later than Four weeks

NRP 2,500 per person

People can obtain the permit at the check post counter in Monjo or Lukla (Khumbu Pasang Rural Municipality Office). In Kathmandu, there are no substitute offices available for obtaining the permit. However, Trekking Planner Nepal's representative may assist with obtaining this permit for the trek to ensure a smooth process.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

The Everest Base Camp comes under the Sagarmatha National Park which is a protected region labeled by the Government of Nepal. So, to enter the national park, a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit is required at a certain cost. The entry fee for Sagarmatha National Park entry is given below:

For Foreigners: NPR 3,000 per person

For SAARC nationals: NPR 1,500 per person

For Nepalese: NPR 100 per person

Trekkers can obtain the permit from Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board Office. Similarly, the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit can also be purchased from the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Gate in Monjo. During the peak season, there can be difficulty in obtaining the permit as one has to wait in line for the process. So, after submitting the required paperwork, a Trekking Planner Nepal agent can assist them in obtaining the permit in Kathmandu. This will make it possible for them to buy the entry permit without difficulty giving individuals a hassle-free experience.

Outline Itinerary for Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Day 1: On arrival at Kathmandu airport 1,320 m /4,355 ft staff transfers you to the hotel.

Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla 2,820 m/9,300 ft, walk to Phakding village 2,645 m / 8,725 ft - 04 hrs. trek.

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar 3,440 m / 11, 350 ft - 06 hrs.

Day 4: Acclimatization day at Namche and a short scenic hike to the viewpoint.

Day 5: Trek to Tengboche 3,867 m / 12,760 ft-05 hrs.

Day 6: Trek to Dingboche 4,340 m / 14,320 ft - 05 hrs.

Day 7: At Dingboche another rest day for acclimatization with a short hike.

Day 8: Trek to Lobuche (4910m/16109ft) 4-5 hrs walk,

Day 9: Trek to Gorakshep (5180m/16995ft) 3-4 hrs walk and Everest Base Camp (5364m/17600ft) 2-3 hrs walk

Day 10: Climb Kalapathar 5,545 m / 18,297 ft and descend to Gorakshep for breakfast then a short Heli flight to Lukla

Day 11: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu with the afternoon free at leisure.

Day 12: International departure for homeward bound.

    Itinerary
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    Important Notice

    The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has implemented new rules for helicopter landing at Kalapatthar. In a shared helicopter, there are either 5 passengers or 2 passengers, and the cost is split, and in the case of 5 passengers, the helicopter doesn't land. The cost must be split among two passengers for landing at Kalapatthar.

    In a private helicopter, if there are 2 passengers, the helicopter lands, and in the case of 5, it doesn't land. There must be either a single passenger or two passengers for the landing at Kalapatthar.

    In both sharing and private helicopters the helicopter lands at the Everest View Hotel for breakfast.

    • AccommodationHotel moonlight/Hotel Lo Mustang/Hotel Thamel Park
    • Mealswelcome dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time1,320 m /4,355 ft

    You will be arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A representative of Trekking Planner Nepal will receive you at the arrival section. Our representative will be displaying the signboard of Trekking Planner outside the airport terminal that eases with identification. Upon meeting you will be then transferred to your respective hotel by the private vehicle which is most likely located in and around Thamel which is the tourist hub of Kathmandu.

    Later in the day you will get enough time to rest and relax or go for a short walk depending upon your interest. In the evening you will have a short brief about the trek with your guide or company owner regarding how you are going to commence the trekking. Any queries regarding the trek will be answered in this meeting. As the meeting concludes you will be taking part in a welcome dinner held in your honor at an authentic Nepalese restaurant with dance and music. After dinner, you will then retire to you room for an overnight rest. You will spend your first night in Nepal at Kathmandu.

    • AccommodationSee you Lodge/Sherpa Guide
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time2780m/9121ft

    Today morning you will wake up early in the morning and have breakfast or you can take packed lunch from the hotel. After breakfast, a representative from the Trekking Planner Nepal will pick you up from the hotel lobby and take you on a drive towards domestic section of Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight to Lukla. Once you board the plane you will have a 35 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. As you land at Tenzing Hillary Airport you will have a tea break where you will meet with rest of your crew. After the tea break you will initiate your trekking journey from Lukla to Phakding which takes about four hours.

    Soon you start a trek by following a descending downward trail that leads you towards the Dudh Kosi River. Walking at a gradual pace, you will soon reach Phakding, passing through a village, called Ghat. Once you reach Phakding, you will settle in an accommodation place and have dinner. After dinner, you can rest, marking the end of today’s journey. Stay over night in Phakding.

    • AccommodationMoon Light Lodge and Restaurant
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time3,440 m / 11, 350 ft

    Today as you wake up, you will be greeted with a filling breakfast. After breakfast, your trek today continues all along the majestic and torrential Dudh Koshi River taking you to the ancient trading center of Namche Bazaar. As you move ahead you will be greeted by the first views of the Kongde Ri Peak. It then goes past some suspension bridges for a while and then the trail ahead bends towards the beautiful Benkar valleys. Further as you trek you will find beautiful waterfalls, ancient gompa and lush green forests that adorn the surroundings.

    Once you are at Benkar you will be greeted by magnificent views of Thamserku (6623m) and the sacred Khumbila Peak (5765m). Observing these peaks you will halt for some time at Monjo. This place is also known as the gateway to the Sagarmatha National Park. Next you trek ahead through to the Jorsale village until you reach Larja Dobhan, for making a cross over a high suspension bridge. This is where the rivers of Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi meet each other.

    You then embark on the trail that goes steep till Namche Bazaar. On the way to Namche, you get to see splendid views of the majestic peaks such as Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m) and Nuptse (7879m). This gives you a sense of relief and satisfaction during the ascent on the steep section.

    Namche Bazaar is a renowned buzzing town of the Sherpa highlanders. It is a perfect place for acclimatization and a center for day hikes. Namche Bazaar still retains its ancient culture, traditions, and heart-warming hospitality. Once you reach Namche you can explore the area or you can settle in your accommodation place. You can have dinner at your accommodation option and rest for the night. Stay overnight in Namche.

    • AccommodationMoon Light Lodge and Restaurant
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time3,440 m / 11, 350 ft

    This is your first acclimatization day in Namche on your Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek. Today after breakfast you will take a short hike for adapting your body to low oxygen level and explore the places in and around Namche. After taking a good rest you will trek a short distance to a museum which is known as Sagarmatha National Park Museum. It showcases the traditional customs of the Sherpa people and an iconic statue of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa is present there for photographs.

    Later, you also get to hike up to Syangboche and continue to walk to the Everest View Hotel. From this hotel, you can see a panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Everest (8,848 m) with a stunning sunrise and sunset over the Khumbu peaks. Later in the afternoon hike down to Namche. You can also continue on various activities in and around Namche like Irish Bar, Saturday Market, Sherpa Cultural Museum and many more. After a wonderful experience in Namche, you can head back to your hotel for dinner or eat at any place of your interest. After dinner you can settle in your accommodation option and spend the night in Namche.

    • AccommodationTrekkers Inn/Paradise Lodge
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time3,867 m / 12,760 ft

    Another day of exciting trek continues as usual. You will continue towards the trail from Namche to Tengboche. Today the trek takes you across the rushing glacial waters of the Dudh Kosi with magnificent views of the mountains.  Trekking on further you will gain altitude until you reach the famous place Tengboche which is known for its age-old monastery known as Tengboche Monastery.

    A look inside the monastery lets you explore its ornate wall hangings, sculpture of Buddha, musical instruments and robes of the Lamas. Besides that, in the evening you can take part in its evening or morning’s prayer ceremony but depends upon the scheduling of the trek. The fascinating thing about Tengboche is that only male monk reside here who bless every trekker that walk the Everest Base Camp trekking trail.

    After immersing in the culture and spirituality of Tengboche Monastery you can go to your accommodation option and have dinner. After dinner you can rest for the night. Stay overnight in Tengboche.

    • AccommodationDingboche Resort/Yak Lodge
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time3,867 m / 12,760 ft

    Today after breakfast, you will leave Tengboche behind and follow the trail that drops to Debuche, crosses another exciting suspension bridge on the Imja Khola. From here the trail climbs to Pangboche amongst thousands of mani stones that are encrypted with Tibetan mantras and chants.

    From this point onwards it an uphill trek that continues, until you reach to the traditional Sherpa village of Dingboche. Here you will get exquisite views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam.  Before we head for the trek further you take time to rest to avoid altitude sickness. Upon reaching Dingboche you will settle in an accommodation place and have a filling dinner. After dinner you will rest and spend overnight in Dingboche.

    • AccommodationDingboche Resort/Yak Lodge
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time3,867 m / 12,760 ft

    Today is your second day for acclimatization and rest which will be held in Dingboche. As you wake up have a filling breakfast and continue to explore the sherpa village of Dingboche. Today, after a good rest you will hike to Nangkartshang Peak which is located just above Dingboche. This is an excellent peak for getting splendid views of the charming Ama Dablam peak. The hike will last for about 2 hours where you will spend 20 minutes mesmerizing the beauty of nature.

    If the weather stays clear, you get to see the excellent view of Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Img Valley, Mt Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Taboche quite nicely. Afterwards you can return to Dingboche and explore the area further. You can enjoy several international cuisines while interacting with local shopkeepers at Dingboche. Tsu chiya (Tibetan tea), Apple pies and fresh arabica rooster beans coffee are some of the popular choices among trekkers. Similarly, if you still have some time in the afternoon, you can spend either by strolling around the village or taking rest.  Once your acclimatization day is completed you will head back to your hotel for dinner. After dinner stay overnight at Dingboche.

    • AccommodationOxygen Altitude Home/Pyramid Lobuche
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time3,867 m / 12,760 ft

    In the morning, have breakfast and start the trek with a gradual and an easy paced ascent from the settlement of Dingboche towards Lobuche. You will be passing through the grazing areas of cattle and the beautiful mountains that gives you a pleasant trekking experience.

    Ahead you will be trekking past the chortens, Mani walls and stupas. Moving forward from here you will get excellent views of the Tabuche Peak (6495m), Ama Dablam Mountain and many more. You will go past the glacial valleys and vast landscape before making a climb onto the valley of Dughla. This is perhaps the last human settlement before traveling further to the base camp.

    Further as you go you will get to discover one of the most touching sections of this trek. A trek of almost an hour will lead you to the height of the high ground overlooking the Khumbu valley, called Chukpo Lari. A monumental place where you will find various tombs built in memory of the mountaineers who laid down their lives during their expedition to conquer Everest. You can observe the area and pay tribute to the beautiful souls. From here the trail descends down taking you to the western side of the valley after walking over the glacial moraines of the majestic Khumbu Glacier. From the memorial site you will reach Lobuche in about an hour and half depending upon the pace.

    Once you reach Lobuche settle in an accommodation place, freshen up and wait for dinner to be served. After dinner you can rest in your room and spend overnight in Lobuche.

    • AccommodationYeti Inn/ Everest Inn Pvt. Ltd
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time3,867 m / 12,760 ft

    Today is one of the most awaited and exciting days of your entire Everest Base Camp Trek. You will be heading straight for the Everest Base Camp so be sure to wake up early and have a filling breakfast to gather all the energy required for the section. You will also need to be aware and take precautions against acute mountain sickness in this kind of altitude and trek sensibly.

    You will be leaving Lobuche after having an early morning's breakfast. Trekking forward from Lobuche reaches you to Gorakshep taking to the lateral moraines of the Khumbu Glacier past the Italian research center. Overcoming the rocky paths, you cautiously walk avoiding the icy pinnacles and occasional crevasses in the Khumbu region.

    Ahead the trail ascends over the Lobuche Pass you will reach to the section that is squeezed by large glaciers of Changri Nup and Khumbu. Afterwards, in a very short time frame, you will find yourself at Gorakshep which is the highest location in Everest Base Camp trekking where teahouses are available. Thus, Gorakshep is a popular choice among trekkers to make a halt for having your lunch and for an overnight stay before reaching the Everest Base Camp.

    After a small break and refreshing moments, you will then move on to your final destination, which is the Everest Base Camp. You will be trekking on a rocky path and onto the New Moraine Route, until you reach the base camp. The moment you reach here the overwhelming sight of the number of yellow tents and camps are lined up by the climbers in the peak season, at the Everest Base Camp is phenomenal.

    To be able to get here and observe the surroundings gives a delightful feeling that just cannot be expressed in words. Especially when you are in the lap of the world’s tallest peak. So be sure to click photographs in front of the iconic Everest Base Camp rock. Not only that you shall get completely lost in the beauty of the sunset visible from the base camp. Similarly, as you cherish the memories of these extraordinary moments, we retrace back to Gorakshep. Once you reach Gorakshep, you will rest and reminisce most of your journey today while enjoying your dinner. Stay overnight in Gorakshep.

    • AccommodationHikers Inn Lukla
    • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time5,545 m / 18,297 ft

    Today is both an enduring and a rewarding day of your trek as you will need to wake up super early for sunrise view from Kalapatthar. The first part of the morning is spent in climbing Kalapatthar which takes about three hours from Gorakshep. The ascent is demanding yet worth a climb, as the panoramic views that you get of the magnificent Everest standing at 8,848 m is breathtaking. In addition, with the panoramic views the sunrise view that portrays the golden shadow over the Mount Everest and surrounding mountains is a sight to see that promises to keep the viewers bedazzled.

    From here wherever your eyes go you get to see the splendor of giant peaks such as Nuptse, Pumori, Chagatse, Lhotse and many more. Besure to take photographs and spend some time exploring the Khumbu glacier. After spending some quality time, you will then make a quick descent to Gorak Shep and have a hearty breakfast. Next you then fly down to Lukla on a helicopter. In a matter of few minutes, you reach Lukla. On the helicopter flight you will get a different approach of exploring the Everest region. After landing at Lukla you will settle in an accommodation place and rest. In the evening you will have dinner and stay at Lukla for the overnight.

    • AccommodationHotel moonlight/Hotel Lo Mustang/Hotel Thamel Park
    • MealsBreakfast and farewell dinner
    • Max. Altitude/Time1,320 m /4,355 ft

    This is your last day of the trekking journey up into the mountains. You will enjoy your breakfast and bid goodbye to the Everest region. For the last time you will take a look at the mountains and then board a flight back to Kathmandu. However, remember that you will need to arrive at the Tenzing Hillary airport minimum of two hours of your scheduled flight. Similarly, the flight from Lukla is affected by bad weather condition so delay of flight is common. Besides that, on arrival in Kathmandu, you will be safely transferred to your hotel room by our guide safely who will be waiting at the domestic arrival section. Afterwards the representative will help with the check in at the hotel. After which you will rest and later in the evening you will have a farewell dinner. After dinner you will be escorted to the hotel where you will spend the night.

      Today is the final day of your trek journey in Nepal. One of our airport representatives will drop you to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal. You will be taking back exciting memories of Everest Base camp with you to be cherished forever.

      Not satisfied with this regular itinerary? Make your own.

      Customize Trip
      Trip Map
      Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek (Heli flight back to lukla) Map
      Inclusions
      What's Included
      •  All airport pick up drop off by private vehicle (for both international and domestic flights).
      •  Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant and farewell dinner.
      •  Twin/double sharing accommodation on BB at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu.
      •  Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu by regular flight and Gorak Shep to Lukla by Helicopter.
      •  National Park entrance fee and Trekkers’ Information Management System ( TIMS card).
      •  A high experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking, well-trained, Government license holding guide. Price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
      •  2 guests to 1 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment.
      •  Your cost includes insurance, wages, food, and lodging for both your guide and porter. We take excellent care of our guides and porters, they are like family to us.
      •  Best available twin-sharing lodge accommodation during the trek (we have a private room with attached bathrooms except for Gorek Shep).
      •  Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and tea/coffee during the trekking.
      •  Snacks of biscuits/peanuts and seasonal fresh fruits dessert during the trek.     
      •  First aid kit.
      •  Trekking Planner Nepal’s sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirt, cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
      •  Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).
      •  Oximeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily during the trek (very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms). This helps ensure your trek is in the safest hands possible.
      •  One-hour complimentary spa/massage in Kathmandu after the trek.
      •  All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary.
      • The sharing bus ride from Kathmandu to Ramechhap for the Lukla flight is included both ways.
      • Fresh fruits after dinner every night as dessert during the trek.
      • Cookies and biscuits during the trek for cookie time after reaching the tea house.
      What's Excluded
      •  Your Nepal Visa fees.
      •  All the International airfare from and to Kathmandu.
      •  Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
      •  Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation.
      •  In case of extra nights accommodation, lunch and dinner in the city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from.
      •  mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given period of the itinerary.
      •  Your expenses such as ( laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottled water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc).
      •  The Tips to the trekking crews and drive.
      •  Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather conditions or any event out of our control.
      • Taking a private jeep towards Ramechhap will cost extra, but it will be worth it.
      Departure Dates
      • Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek (Heli flight back to Lukla) departs every day of the year privately.
      • For a sharing basis, pre-booking is required, as there need to be arrangements for a sharing basis.
      • It is better to keep 2 days as a contingency in case the weather goes sideways.
      • This trip is fully customizable. We can customize the trip as per your needs.
      • This trip is available on a fixed departure and a private group basis.
      • This trip can be booked privately if you’re traveling solo, privately, or with family. Have a big group? We can help as per your needs. We can help you make it fit your budget.
      • We accept instant booking and online payment.
      • If the given date is not appropriate for you, please get in touch with us; Trekking Planner also organizes various trips in small groups that can suit you. We recommend you reserve a seat for yourself by booking with us right away for a wonderful experience.
      • (Call or email now for a private trip: [email protected], mobile +977-9851071767 (24 hours)—WeChat, WeChat, and Viber—so that Trekking Planner can happily manage your trip on dates favorable for you.
      Choose month & year
      Departure Date Trip StatusPrice 
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 04, 2024 Sep 15, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 07, 2024 Sep 18, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 08, 2024 Sep 19, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 11, 2024 Sep 22, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 14, 2024 Sep 25, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 15, 2024 Sep 26, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 18, 2024 Sep 29, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 21, 2024 Oct 02, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 22, 2024 Oct 03, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 25, 2024 Oct 06, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 28, 2024 Oct 09, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Departure DateDeparture DateSep 29, 2024 Oct 10, 2024Trip StatusTrip StatusAvailablePriceStarting fromUS$1999
      Essential Info

      If you want to customize the trip or custom hand-picked facilities instead of the whole package, we also have those services, for example.

      • Nepal Trekking Planner can provide customized tailored itineraries for our client’s Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek with a helicopter return needs.
      • Trekking Planner Nepal can conduct the trip by providing a guide and porters-only service for this Everest Base Camp Trek with a helicopter return 12 days.
      • Trekking Planner Nepal can provide accommodation-only facilities for the Rapid Everest Base Camp Trek-12 Days if required.
      • Trekking Planner Nepal can provide flight tickets for Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu
      • Trekking planner Nepal can provide only flight service from Ramechhap to Lukla and Lukla to Ramechhap.
      • Trekking Planner Nepal provides only vehicle service from Kathmandu to Ramechhap and Ramechhap to Kathmandu.

      Note that from April 2024, the flights will take place from Ramechhap, which is around 3/4 hours of drive, depending on whether you are taking a private vehicle or want to join a group to share the cost of a coaster or a bus.

      Driving to Ramechhap for Lukla Flight, don’t forget these things.

      • If you take a private vehicle, you can reach around a 3-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, and the car will pick you up at the hotel or the place you choose.
      • If you’re taking a shared bus or coaster towards Ramechhap, then you have to go from your place towards the bus, and the bus will have other trekkers joining as well, As soon as everyone arrives, the bus or coaster will then move towards Ramechhap airport.

      Everest Base Camp Trekking Tips for Females.

      • Ladies and women need to keep track of their periods.
      • After tracking the periods, always keep two packs of sanitary pads with you.
      • In the mountains, during the cold, you can feel cramps, and bleeding can be a little more than normal, so feel free to let the guide know about the situation and consume painkillers in case of cramps.

      Useful Articles related to Everest Base Camp Trek

      Equipment and Gear List

      trekking iconGeneral

      • Four-season (-20 degree) sleeping bag (We provide rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
      • Puffy down jacket (We provide rental jackets for an additional USD 35)
      • Daypack (25-30 liters recommended) with rain cover

      HeadUpper Body

      • Sun hat or cap (We'll provide you with a trekking cap.)
      • warm woolen hat
      • Scarf/Neck Buff (highly recommended to get saved from wind and cold)
      • Headlamp or mobile torch light for nighttime
      • Polarized sunglasses

      TorsoTorso

      • Technical fabric base layer thermals are light for warmer months, heavy for colder months
      • Technical fabric t-shirts and sleeve sweaters or high-necks
      • Waterproof rain jacket
      • windproof jacket for the walk as it gets windy
      • Fleece jacket or down jacket

      PantLower Body

      • thermals inner
      • Hiking pants at least 3
      • Comfortable pants for teahouses
      • Waterproof, windproof shell
      • Hiking shorts

      GlovesHands

      • Woolen gloves for the tea house
      • Hard-shell windproof outer gloves for the walk

      FeetFeet

      • Marino Wool or comfortable, warm socks
      • Hiking socks
      • Liner socks
      • Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
      • Crampons (For passes)
      • Casual shoes or sandals that are comfortable for the time in the tea house
      • Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow)

      UndergarmentsUndergarments and inner wears

      • Technical fabric/quick drying (can be washed during the trek)
      • Sports bras (women)
      • sleeping clothes as per the comfortability

      MedicineFirst Aid Kits and Medications

      • Sunscreen SPF- 50+
      • Lip balm or Vaseline
      • ointment cream
      • Cough Syrup and strepsils (recommended for Khumbu Cough)
      • Creams and medicines (for any allergies or diseases)

      (Note: Our guides carry medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are recommended.)

      Other essentialsOther Essentials

      • Passport
      • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
      • Reusable water bottle
      • Toilet paper, small soap, and shampoo
      • Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
      • water bladder for the day bag
      • small towel for personal use
      • Pillowcase in case of allergies to new pillows
      • High-protein snacks (such as mountain bars or nuts)
      • Waterproof/dry bags for carrying essential documents, stuff, frequently used items, and money
      • Power bank or extra batteries
      • Cameras and mobile phone
      • Cards/book
      • Pee bottle/ pee funnel for women
      • Trekking poles
      • Whistle in case your voice is not loud enough to stop or start
      • Thermos for hot water during the nighttime
      • We give you a free duffel bag, trekking cap, maps, and t-shirt during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your trekking supplies.
      • For every two participants, we assign one porter. The porter will carry the duffel bag, which should weigh around 10 kg/22 lbs., throughout the walk.
      • Daypack bag for daily used stuff like cash, documents, papers, a water bottle or bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, clothing, etc. (with a waterproof cover).
      • You can store your luggage (on-trekking items) at the hotel in Kathmandu, and we can assist and help.
      • Total luggage for the Kathmandu-Lukla flight is (15 kg/33 lbs.), including duffel (10 Kg/22 lbs.) and backpack (5 kg/11 lbs.)
      • A down jacket with a hood(cap) to be warm in altitudes above 3,000m.
      • We can provide a down jacket for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, you need to pay back the cost of USD 200 per item.
      • We can provide a sleeping bag for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, USD 200 per item must be paid.

      Note: Supplies and gear can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu. Once you are in Nepal, you can buy supplies and gear for hiking if you have spare time. Trekking Planner Nepal representatives will assist you in purchasing the equipment. Thamel a tourist hub, offers a wide range of trekking equipment at affordable prices. Don't wear short clothes inside the monasteries and religious places.

      FAQs

      • Your Everest Base Camp trek and helicopter return trip starts from Kathmandu valley as we take off from the domestic terminal at Tribhuvan International Airport. It ends similarly as it had started off in Kathmandu.

      • The trek is not as difficult at all as you expect but better have some kind of hiking experience. You do not require any kind of technical expertise or mountaineering skills to trek to the Everest Base Camp. There are also no high passes to cross. The only thing you need to be aware of is the altitude. If you do acclimatize properly, eat the right food, and drinks and rest enough, and trek with an experienced guide and porter then you need not worry.

      • It is practically impossible to take the helicopter to the top of Everest. The air is just too thin for most helicopters to produce enough power to lift and remain airborne. Besides that, the type of weather is strong enough to bring down any helicopter.

        Any kind of intentional landing in those conditions is strongly not recommended. There are several factors that limit a pilot's ability to fly to the top of Mount Everest. For much of the year, the mountain is covered in hurricane-force winds and sub-freezing temperatures.

      • On the Rapid Everest base camp trek, the helicopter flies at an altitude ranging from 4,000 m to 5,500 meters high or above in some areas (18000 feet). Flying above 5,000m allows you to get close views of the mountains of the region and beyond other peaks of the Himalayas.

      • All our guides and pilots are expert and highly trained professionals in this field. They have decades of experience leading worldwide customers and have taken them to the Himalayas with great skill and safety. The guides have complete knowledge about the flora-fauna, local culture, history, and traditional life of the villagers up there in the mountains.

        Besides that our pilots are well-trained and flying experts. They have in-depth knowledge and you will be in good hands even at times of emergencies if it arises.

      • You can choose the food you want from the Lodge/Tea house menu and the test of food depends on the place and the altitude. You can also choose local dishes and continental dishes. However, food is cooked by the basic local trainers so the taste may not be the same as you have at your house.

      • There are a few practical challenges that may or may not occur. It ranges from Lukla Flight Cancellation, getting altitude sickness on occasion, Khumbu cough, poor Wi-Fi signals, and getting hot showers.

      • Preparing before trekking to the Everest Base Camp is always a wise decision. You should include and improve your cardio endurance, build stamina, and be comfortable carrying a daypack uphill for long periods at a time. Ideally, you should prepare on a regular basis for at least a couple of weeks before your trek. Try and begin hiking or taking long walks at least 1 day per week. All your focus should be on duration rather than distance.

      • It is always advisable to carry safe drinking water with you wherever you travel/trek. However, you can buy a bottle of mineral water along the way from Lodge.  Our guide also brings a water purification tablet, if you need you can ask and take it from the guide. 

      • It all depends upon the area and the season. In the months of April to May, it is warmer during day time with a cold wind blowing in the mornings and late afternoons. Generally, the temperature drops down in the evening time.  In the months of September to November, it is warmer during the daytime with the cold wind blowing in the mornings and late afternoons. The temperature drops down from -5*C to -8*C in the evening.   

        However, we will suggest you carry the necessary warm gear to stay away from cold

      • Yes, we always have oxygen cylinders ready with us. It is very helpful in times of unexpected health issues or in case of unforeseen emergencies as well.

      • The number of passengers carried largely depends upon the maximum carrying capacity of the particular helicopter that is hired. It depends on how you wish to travel, it will either be a group flight or it can be a private tour. The passengers on your flight are according to your booking preferences and confirmed orders

      • Yes, you can charge your batteries and mobile phones in every place by paying some extra amount. The price of charging may vary in different places. It is wise to bring your power bank which you can charge in Kathmandu and use it in the higher area as charging batteries in the higher area is quite costly.

      • Trekking up into the mountains is unpredictable and there might be health emergency situations. If such thing happens than you will need a quick helicopter ride back to Kathmandu for treatment. Hence, adequate insurance is an essential requirement. You need to make sure that the insurance that you have covers helicopter rescue & medical evacuation expenses at high altitudes.

      • Trekking Planner guarantees the safety, security, and satisfaction of its clients. Our reliable team members always carry all the necessary gear, and first aid kits to face any situation.

        If a trekker falls sick, the guide has the authority to decide whether to continue the hike forward or descend down immediately. In emergencies, we position and inform a helicopter to bring you back to safety. Trekking Planner also uses an oximeter to monitor the oxygen level of trekkers at high altitudes.

      Stress-Free Booking Guarantee
      All-inclusive priceUS$1999US$2099per person
      We Offer Group Discount Price
        
      1 paxUS$2099
      2 - 5 paxUS$1999
      6 - 11 paxUS$1950
      12 - 20 paxUS$1899
      Total PriceUS$2099
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      Client Reviews
      • rating star

        EBC trek with Nepal Trekking planners

        We were a group of 12 that had a custom itinerary created for us . Dipak and our guide Anish were nothing short of remarkable in guiding us,making adjustments on the fly and delivering great service under some very demanding circumstances. You can't go wrong by selecting Trekking Planner as your agency of choice for the EBC hike.

        TripAdvisor
        T
        TricassoUnited States,Nov 07, 2023
      • rating star

        EBC

        My husband and I hike EBC for our honeymoon. Our guide was Binod and he was fantastic. The trip went very smoothly and we had some of the best accommodations all through the trip. Dipak was very organized and always quick to respond to all questions before and during the trip. We highly recommend Trekker Planners and Binod as a guide!

        TripAdvisor
        M
        MRA5Canada,Nov 04, 2023
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