Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

star5 reviews on TripAdvisor
Breakfast At Everest Views Hotel 3880M During the Everest Helicopter Tour
Key Information
  • Destination:Nepal
  • Duration:12 Days
  • Trip Grade: Moderate
  • Max. Altitude:5,545 m/18,192 ft (Kala Patthar)
  • Starts/Ends:Kathmandu / Kathmandu
  • Trip Style:Private and Group Join
  • Group Size:2 Pax to 10
  • Best Time:Spring & Autumn

The Everest base camp luxury trek is all about adventure with comfort. It is a bit expensive EBC trek package that includes luxury lodge accommodation, private washrooms with Western-style toilets, hot showers, a variety of food options, and a helicopter return from Gorak Shep.

If you are not on a very tight budget and can spend USD 700 to USD 1000 extra, we highly recommend you choose the Everest base camp luxury trek with helicopter return. You will have a much better trekking experience in terms of infrastructure, and the journey will be much more manageable.

Additionally, the itinerary is also short. You can complete the trek in under two weeks, making it perfect for travelers on two-week holidays. Our Everest base camp luxury trek itinerary includes two acclimatization days, giving trekkers ample time to enjoy nature and mountains. It is also a very effective EBC itinerary to avoid altitude sickness.

Why should you do the Everest base camp Luxury trek with a helicopter return?

The EBC luxury trek is all about added services to make the journey comfortable and lavish. This package is meticulously curated, selecting the top-notch luxury lodge accommodations in all the villages. Likewise, after hiking to Kala Patthar, you will take a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Kathmandu.

The helicopter flight saves three days of walking back to Lukla. The trail is the same as before, so you will not miss anything. Moreover, the helicopter flight allows you to witness the aerial panorama of the Himalayas that very few trekkers get to behold. The flight will be very relaxed and smooth.

Another added benefit of Luxury Trek is that services like hot showers, WiFi, and charging are included in the room cost. So, unlike the standard EBC trek package, you do not always have to pay extra money for these services. Similarly, get a better dining option along the way with food ranging from famous dal bhat and thukpa to pizza, burgers, etc.

What can you expect during the Everest Base Camp Luxury trekking?

Trekking to Everest Base Camp, the lap of the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, is adventurous, whatever way you choose to do it. Reaching the base camp is definitely a huge achievement, and the feeling will stay with you forever, but the journey is even more incredible.

You will explore the lushness of the Himalayan foothills. The trail goes through rhododendron and magnolia forests, following the Dudh Koshi River in the first few days. You will cross many suspension bridges along the way. The Tenzing Hillary Bridge right before Monjo is the longest one and will take your breath away.

Spend nights in beautiful villages and enjoy the hospitality of the locals. Enjoy the mountain lifestyle, fresh meals, rejuvenating air, and various gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Spend two nights in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche villages. During your time here, hike to the Hotel Everest View and Nagarjuna Hill.

The trail ascends and descends through forests, villages, and terraced fields. Once you go beyond Dingboche, you can see a drastic change in the landscape. The terrain is much more steep and rocky. You will walk on glacial tracks. Pass by memorial chortens of climbers before reaching Lobuche village.

From here, ascend to Gorak Shep. This is the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. You will also hike to Kala Patthar from here. The sunrise from Kala Patthar will be spectacular. Likewise, you will also see a jaw-dropping view of Everest from here. After the hike, take a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu.

The trek offers views of many mountains, including Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft), Makalu (8,463 m/27,766 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m/25,791 ft), Thamserku (6,608 m/21,680 ft), etc. The experience you will have during the luxury Everest base camp trek with helicopter return is worth every penny you spend.

Trek preparation

Given the physical challenges of the Everest Base Camp trek, we recommend that trekkers exercise and improve their stamina and endurance before the trek starts. With decent fitness, you will enjoy the hike much more. This trek is definitely for beginner trekkers, but that doesn't mean it will be easy.

Similarly, you have to walk an average of 5 to 6 hours a day, so make sure you are ready for it. If you have any previous/ongoing medical history, visit your doctor and get a consultation on altitude and how it can affect your body. Finally, pack the below essentials for the trek:

  • Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag and sleeping bag liner
  • Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
  • Trekking poles, Sunglasses, Reusable water bottle, Water purification tablets
  • Sun hat or cap and beanie, Scarf/neck gaiter/buff (highly recommended), Gloves, Socks, Dry towel
  • The base layer - underwear, t-shirts, long sleeve, shorts, pants
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket/pant, Puffy down jacket, Fleece jacket
  • Trekking pants and shirts
  • Trekking boots and casual shoes
  • Sunscreen, Lip balm
  • Ointment, general medicine, Diamox, Cough Syrup, Mosquito repellent cream, Band-aid, crack bandage
  • Toilet paper, wet tissue, toothpaste/toothbrush, moisturizer, lip balm, SPF, comb, small mirror, deodorant, etc
  • Map, Ziplock bags, Pillowcase,
  • Passport, Extra copies of passport-sized photos, Cash, documents, permits
  • Snacks, nuts, energy bars, etc

Why do the Everest Base Camp Luxury trek 2024/2025 with us?

At Halesi Treks, you will get international-standard service with a touch of Nepali heritage. We work closely with the locals of the Everest region, so you will be contributing to the local economy. The trip is well organized and supported by our experienced guide and porter.

There will be no communication gap because our team is well-versed in English and many other languages. Likewise, you do not have to worry about hidden charges with us. We currently have the best Everest base camp Luxury trek with helicopter return cost in the market.

Whether you want to follow or change our offer itinerary, we will help you with that. We are very flexible with our itineraries and allow our guests to fully customize them as per their requirements. Bookings are open for the Everest base camp Luxury trek with helicopter return 2024/2025 departures. 

Get in touch with us if you have any questions. 

Itinerary

Expand all Collapse all

You can meet our representatives at the Tribhuvan International Airport's terminal with your name plates or our company's banner. They will welcome you and transfer you to the five-star Yak and Yeti hotel. Later in the day, we will meet for briefing and trek preparation. The day ends with a lovely welcome dinner with our core team. Also, explore the bustling streets of Thamel.

  • Max. Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ft
  • Meals: Welcome dinner
  • Accommodation: Yak and Yeti Hotel

The Lukla flights are mostly in the morning. The flight will be short and scenic. From Lukla, descend to Phakding village to spend the night. It is located a couple of hundred meters below Lukla. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi river, crossing it numerous times via suspension bridges. You will walk past rhododendron forests and small settlements on the way.

  • Max. Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Yeti Mountain Home
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight & 3-4 hours trek
  • Distance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles

From Phakding, the trail continues through rhododendron forests and crosses numerous suspension bridges. Cross the long Hillary Suspension bridge and reach Monjo. Register permits in this village and follow the forested route via rugged uphill to Namche Bazaar

  • Max. Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Yeti Mountain Home
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles

We have acclimatization day today. In the morning, hike to the Hotel Everest View via Syangboche Airstrip. You get to witness breathtaking views of Thamserku, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Everest during the hike. Likewise, visit the Everest Photo Gallery and Sherpa Culture Museum in Namche Bazaar. For the night stay, you will descend to Tashinga.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,962 m/13,000 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

From Tashinga, the trail follows rugged hillsides to Kyangjuma. From here, descend to Phungi Thanga. Crossing a suspension bridge, follow an uphill trail to Tengboche village. Here, visit the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region and descend via lush rhododendron forests to Deboche. The mountain views of Everest and Ama Dablam are excellent from Tengboche.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,320 m/10,892 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Rivendell Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 12.5 km/7.7 miles

The trail further descends to Imja Khola from Deboche village. We will cross the river via a suspension bridge and trek to Pangboche village. Stop at one of the oldest monasteries in Pangboche village and trek from here to Dingboche village. The trail goes past the Shomare and Orsho settlements.

  • Max. Altitude: 4,410 m/14,470 ft
  • Meals: Dingboche Resort
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Distance: 13 km/8 miles

Dingboche is your second resting point. Here, you will go on an acclimatization hike to Nagarjuna Hill. The hiking route is offbeat, so you have to be careful. During the hike, you will get to witness many stunning mountain panoramas, including Cho Oyu, Island Peak, Lhotse, Everest, and Ama Dablam. After the hike, spend the remaining time relaxing.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,100 m/16,732 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Dingboche Resort
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

From Dingboche, you will be trekking above the tree line. The trail is much more steep and rocky. Following a glacier field, ascend to Dughla (4,620 m) via Dusa. From here, follow the Khumbu glacier moraine to Lobuche village. The trail continues to Pyramid, where you will be spending the night. On the way, witness striking mountain views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cholatse, Ama Dablam, etc.

  • Max. Altitude: 4,970 m/16,306 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: 8000 Inn
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 11.7 km/7.2 miles

On this day, you will reach the Everest Base Camp. From Pyramid, follow boulder fields to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before the base camp. Leave the luggage in the guesthouse and hike to EBC. Spend some time exploring the base camp of Mount Everest and descend back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,364 m/17,598 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Snowland Guesthouse (non-attach washroom)
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Distance: 15 km/9.32 miles

Today, early in the morning, you will hike to Kala Patthar. It is the highest point during the trek. Famous as a viewpoint, Kala Patthar offers a breathtaking view of Mt. Everest and many other surrounding mountains. After the hike, descend to Gorak Shep, and from here, take a thrilling helicopter flight back to Lukla.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,545 m/18,192 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge
  • Duration: 2 hours hike & half an hour helicopter flight
  • Distance: 3 km/1.8 miles

You will fly back to Kathmandu. Our team will take care of your hotel transfer. You will have the whole day free in Kathmandu. It is a great opportunity to visit nearby tourist sites like Monkey Temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Buy souvenirs and enjoy your last day in Kathmandu. We will meet you in the late evening for a farewell dinner.

  • Max. Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast & farewell dinner
  • Accommodation: Yak and Yeti Hotel
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight

Our team will pick you up from your hotel as per your flight departure time. They will use a private vehicle and drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

  • Meals: Breakfast only

Trip Cost Details

What's Included
  • Airport pick-up and drop by private vehicle
  • 5 stars accommodation in Kathmandu for 2 nights with breakfast 
  • 4 nights' accommodation at Yeti Mountain home 
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Regular Flight ticket  from Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu
  • An experienced, English-speaking government-licensed holder trek guide
  • Between 2 clients 1 porter
  • Helicopter/Chopper from Gorakshep to Lukla
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after the trip completion)
  • Halesi Treks duffel bag
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
  • Medical kit Bag (carried by your trek guide)
  • All government and local taxes
What's not Included
  • Nepal entry visa fee 
  • International airfare 
  • Personal Travelers Insurance
  • All kinds of drinks (Alcohol, hot and cold drinks)
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Wifi and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • City Tour in Kathmandu
  • All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strike, etc.

 

Dates & Availability
Starts:Dec 09, 2024Ends:Dec 20, 2024
Price fromUS$1800
AvailabilityAvailable
Starts:Dec 12, 2024Ends:Dec 23, 2024
Price fromUS$1800
AvailabilityAvailable
Starts:Dec 18, 2024Ends:Dec 29, 2024
Price fromUS$1800
AvailabilityAvailable
Starts:Dec 25, 2024Ends:Jan 05, 2025
Price fromUS$1800
AvailabilityAvailable
Starts:Dec 30, 2024Ends:Jan 10, 2025
Price fromUS$1800
AvailabilityAvailable

Regarding the Lukla flight details which may affect your itinerary. During peak seasons, ( March, April, May, October, and November) the flight to Lukla will be operated from Ramechhap/Manthali Airport due to air traffic expansion In Kathmandu Airport, which is about a 5-hour drive from Kathmandu. Whereas, during non-peak seasons, (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December) the flight is operated from Kathmandu.

You have the option to book a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla for an extra charge of USD 550 per person. This price is quoted on a 5-people sharing basis. This is the best alternative to avoid the long drive to Manthali airport.

The Above-given cost is per person and the Above-given Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return fixed departure dates are available for you. If the given date is not favorable then please contact us and we will happily customize your trip on dates more appropriate for you.

Useful Information

Everest base camp luxury trek difficulty

The Everest Base Camp luxury trek lowers the overall difficulty of this world-famous trekking adventure. Each day, walking hours and terrain are the same as a standard EBC trek, but as this is a luxury trek, you will get to enjoy the best amenities that the Khumbu region has to offer. It makes the journey much more bearable and less tiring.

The Everest Base Camp luxury trek difficulty is moderate. Trekkers have to be physically fit to do this trek. Prior trekking experience is not necessary, but we recommend you go on a few day hikes if possible. As the elevation rises each day, there is a risk of altitude sickness. However, with proper precautions, you can avoid it.

The trekking route is rugged. The trail to EBC continuously ascends and descends. Traversing lush forests, ascend to glacier moraines. Your willpower and determination are important to complete the trek. To make the trek a bit more doable, we have added a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla. So, you do not have to retrace the trail back to Lukla.

Altitude difference:

Starting the trek from Kathmandu at 1,400 meters (4,600 ft), you will fly to Lukla (2,846 m/9,337 ft). Because of the drastic change in altitude in 35 minutes of flight, you will descend to Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft) to spend the night. This descent will help you adjust to the elevation change.

From here, the trail gradually ascends to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,598 ft) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m/18,192 ft). We have two acclimatization days in our luxury Everest Base Camp trek itinerary in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche village.

Trek distance & daily walking hours:

The Everest Base Camp luxury trek covers a total distance of 65 kilometers (40 miles). You will trek 9 to 11 km (5.5 to 6.8 miles) each day. It means 5 to 6 hours of walking every day.

Tips for beginner trekkers:

If you are a beginner trekker, we highly recommend you exercise daily or get involved in some kind of cardio activity like cycling, swimming, running, etc, to build your stamina before the trek starts. Or you can do both. Research the trek and understand what the journey takes for you to reach the base of the highest mountain in the world.

*Note: If you have never explored the Himalayas before, then you have to understand no Himalayan trek is easy, even though it says beginner-friendly. You have to put effort both physically and mentally. With that being said, if you are determined, you can definitely complete most treks, including the Everest Base Camp luxury trek.

Emergency response:

If the situation demands to get you out of the Khumbu region, we will use helicopter evacuation. Our rescue team stays on standby during our trips in the Himalayas and provides prompt evacuation. In case of minor injury or illness, our trained guide will provide you first-aid.

Is travel insurance necessary for an Everest base camp luxury trekking 12 days?

Yes, travel insurance is necessary for the Everest Base Camp luxury trek with helicopter return. With the help of travel insurance, we can provide you with helicopter rescue on time if needed. Your travel insurance must cover helicopter evacuation up to 6,000 meters as well as medical bills. It is a safety net for you during the crisis in the mountains.

Best time to trek to Everest Base Camp luxury trek with helicopter return

The best time to do the Everest Base Camp luxury trek with helicopter return is from March to May and September to December. These months include spring and autumn seasons, which have steady weather and a mild climate- quite important for a hassle-free trekking experience. The clear sky and less chance of precipitation keep the helicopter and commercial Lukla flights on time.

Likewise, trekking between June to August (summer/monsoon) and December to November (winter) is not recommended, especially in the summer/monsoon season. These are off-seasons for trekking in the Himalayas because of poor weather conditions. If you are well prepared, you may trek in winter, but flights are not always on time.

Accommodation

As the name of this package suggests, you will stay overnight in extravagant hotels and lodges during the Everest Base Camp luxury trek with helicopter return. In Kathmandu, we will book the Yak and Yeti hotel for you. It is a five-star hotel with top-notch service. Likewise, during trekking, you will spend nights in luxury lodges, which provide a very comfortable and appealing atmosphere in the remote mountains.

The rooms will be single or twin-shared with private washrooms in all villages except Gorak Shep. You do not have to pay extra money for services like hot showers, charging, WiFi, etc. Unlike the basic lodges, the interior and experience in luxury lodges are drastically different.

Meals

Meals will be top-notch, with a decent variety during trekking. You will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek. Likewise, in Kathmandu, we provide all breakfasts and two complimentary dinners. The menu during the trek includes dishes like dal bhat, momo, steak, macaroni, burgers, pizza, stew, rice, curries, chapati, thukpa, pies, porridge, soups, etc.

You will also get a wide variety of bakery items and freshly brewed coffee. Boiled drinking water is available for free of cost to refill your reusable water bottles. You are free to buy extra food and drinks if you wish on your own. We recommend budgeting USD 15 to USD 20 for each day for additional snacks and beverages.

Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Testimonials
What Our Clients Say?
Tripadvisor
Similar Trips