Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return to Lukla -12 days

Trip Introduction : Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return to Lukla.

"Adventure the Quickest and Scenic Ways to Everest Base Camp with Short Heli Flights"

Everest Base Camp Trekking is the fastest way to cover all the best scenic places in the high Khumbu and Everest Regions. It is a great and swift adventure where walking takes you to your dream destination at Everest Base Camp with a climb of the high Kalapatthar Hill Top, then flying to Lukla, saving you more than two days of long walks.

Everest Trekking In a perfect adventure, especially for travelers with limited holiday duration but with a keen interest in treks to reach the foot of number one Mt. Everest, Join in this wonderful walk of ten days that fulfills your lifetime vision of being closest to the world's highest mountains.

Where does the Everest Base Camp Trek start from, and what should I Expect?

Everest Base Camp Trekking starts with a normal, short panoramic flight to reach Lukla, a town with a unique airstrip named in tribute to legendary mountaineers Tenzing and Hillary. From Lukla, walk on a nice, pleasant, picturesque trail, walking through interesting Sherpa villages lined with religious monuments of prayer stone walls and spinning wheels.

The walk takes you to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, listed as a world heritage site (Sagarmatha is the name for Everest in Nepalese, while Sherpa call it Chomolungma in Tibetan), where the walk follows the Dudh-Koshi River within a gorge and valley lined with tall, dense tree lines of rhododendron, magnolia, oaks, blue pines, and firs.

Soon adventure climbs on a wide, winding path to reach the famous Namche Bazaar, tagged as "Bazaar," where the weekly colorful and busy Saturday market holds an interesting place to observe local Sherpa culture and Custom.

Namche Bazaar onward, an ideal place for a free day to support acclimatization against AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), from here onward, heed slowly as altitude gains along with close views of Mt. Everest and adjoining series of peaks with magnificent-looking Ama Dablam.

The walk continues into the cool shade of alpine woodland to a ranch at an awesome scenic spot. Tengboche is a place with a beautiful monastery located in the midst of a green forest and surrounded by an array of peak ranges with views of Mt. Everest and the close south face of Mt. Ama Dablam.

a wonderful place for views as well as a short tour of the monastery, where once a year a great colorful festival is held called Mani-Rimdu during the months of October or November as per auspicious dates from the Buddhist Lunar Calendar.

From Tengboche onward, head north past the last permanent village of Pangboche, where the rest of the journey overnights around the temporary settlements of Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorakshep, which provide good, simple lodges for travelers.

As the walk continues, we are heading closer to our final target of reaching Everest Base Camp, standing on the foot of world number one with several names for one single tallest peak (Everest, Sagarmatha, Chomolungma, Peak IV, also called the Third Pole).

Everest Base Camp is flooded with expedition camps in the peak season of mountaineering during April and May. Enjoy dramatic views of massive Khumbu Ice-Fall and glaciers with giant peaks like Mt. Nuptse, Lhotse, and Pumori that tower above you.

Mind-owing, after a great, glorious moment, and views, the adventure is a climb up to the high Kalapatthar hilltop on the tallest trek, offering a mind-blowing, spectacular panorama of the mountain range with Everest at the closest distance.

Helicopter return from Gorakshep to Lukla.

Enjoying fantastic views descend to Gorakshep, where you board a chopper for a short scenic flight to reach Lukla for your last overnight halt around the high Khumbu and Everest Areas. Your next early morning flight in a smaller aircraft will bring you back to Kathmandu after a superb adventure and experience on Everest Base Camp Trekking.

Helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla using Turbine Robinson R 66 Helicopter USA, H-125 or AS-350B3, MSN 8477 or AS 350 B series of helicopters manufactured by Euro-Copter
Group Size: Minimum 2 to 3 people, maximum 5 people

Note that in the case of five persons, the helicopter takes three people first and drops them at Pheriche, then goes back to Gorakshep and takes two people from Gorakshep and takes them to Pheriche, then loads up the remaining persons from Pheriche and at once takes all of them back to Lukla. This is because of the air density and pressure at high altitudes, which don’t allow carrying more than three people at once at an altitude above 4000 meters.

Best Seasons for Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return.

The best season for Everest Base Camp Trekking is generally considered to be from the beginning of September to November, which is the autumn season in Nepal. During this time, the weather is generally clear and dry, offering excellent visibility of the surrounding mountain peaks, including Mt. Everest. The temperature is also comfortable during the day, with warm sunshine and cool nights.

Spring (March to May) is also a popular time to trek to Everest Base Camp, as the weather is generally mild and the flowers and rhododendrons are in bloom, creating a beautiful landscape. However, the trails can be crowded during this time, and the weather can be less predictable, with occasional rain showers. Overall, if you want the best chance of clear weather and stunning views of Mt. Everest, autumn is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp.

Climate and Weather.

The Himalayan climate can be unpredictable sometimes, even in the best seasons, where April, May, and the first week of June will be the best times during the spring when days are longer and there are enough sunlight hours.

Morning and nighttime in the shade can be cold, with much lower temperatures around higher areas above 3,000 m.

Other months from September to November are also great times for treks around Kanchenjunga Base Camp and other areas of the Himalaya, when days are clear for views and to summit the top of the peak, although the autumn season is much colder with extreme cold during the morning and nighttime, when sunlight is much shorter.

What are the temperatures during the Everest Base Camp Trekking return?

The temperature on the Everest Base Camp Trekking trail can vary greatly depending on the season and altitude. Here is a general temperature guide for each season:

• September to November.: During the daytime, the temperature at lower altitudes (below 3,000 meters) can range from 0°C to 12°C. As you gain altitude, the temperature drops, and nighttime temperatures can be below freezing, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F).
• March to May: During the daytime, temperatures can range from 0°C to 10°C at lower altitudes, with nighttime temperatures ranging from 0°C to -5°C (32°F to 23°F). As you gain altitude, the temperature drops, and nighttime temperatures can be below freezing.

What sort of foods are available during the Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return?

During the Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return, you can expect to find a variety of foods to fuel your journey. Here are some examples of the types of foods that are typically available:

• Nepalese cuisine: You will find plenty of traditional Nepalese dishes along the trekking trail, such as dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), momos (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), and thukpa (a hearty noodle soup).
• Western-style food: Many tea houses and lodges along the trail also serve western-style food, such as pasta dishes, pizza, sandwiches, and burgers.
• Breakfast foods: You can expect to find a variety of breakfast foods to start your day, including pancakes, omelets, porridge, and toast.
• Snacks: Along the trail, you can also find a variety of snacks, such as chocolate bars, energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit.
• Hot Drinks: Tea and coffee are available at most tea houses and lodges, and you can also find hot chocolate and other hot drinks to warm you up on chilly days.

It's important to note that the availability of specific foods may vary depending on the tea house or lodge you visit. It's always a good idea to bring some snacks and energy bars with you in case you can't find what you're looking for, and to check with your tour operator or guide about any dietary restrictions or preferences you may have.

What types of accommodations are available during Everest Base Camp Trekking?

During the Everest Base Camp Trek, there are various types of accommodations available along the trekking route to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some examples of the types of accommodations you can expect to find:

• Tea Houses or Guest Houses: Tea houses or guest houses are the most common type of accommodation along the trekking route. They are small lodges or inns that offer basic facilities such as a bed, a shared bathroom, and a communal dining area. Some tea houses have hot showers, while others may only have cold water. These accommodations are usually owned and operated by local families, providing an authentic experience of Nepalese culture and Hospitality.
• Luxury Lodges: In recent years, luxury lodges have also opened along the trekking route, offering more comfortable and upscale accommodation. These lodges often feature private rooms, ensuite bathrooms, hot showers, and other amenities such as Internet and electric blankets.

Notes for luxury lodges You need to get in touch with office representatives, and we have to make the bookings as fast as possible as there are a smaller number of luxury lodges, so we need to book them up in advance.

How to prepare for Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return.

Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return requires physical and mental preparation, as well as proper planning and gear. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Physical Fitness: The Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return involves several days of trekking, which requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. You should start a regular exercise routine, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and hiking, to prepare for the trek.
• Altitude Training: The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return involves reaching high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness. You should consider doing some altitude training before the trek, such as hiking at high altitudes or using an altitude training mask.
• Packing List: You should prepare a packing list of essential items you will need during the trek, including warm clothing, waterproof jackets and pants, comfortable hiking boots, a sleeping bag, a headlamp, a water bottle, and other necessary gear.
• Travel Insurance: You should purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency evacuations, and trip cancellations. This is important, especially for the helicopter return, as it can be costly.
• Acclimatization: The Everest Base Camp Trekwith Helicopter Return includes acclimatization days, where you stay in one place to help your body adjust to the altitude. It's important to follow the itinerary and take these acclimatization days seriously to prevent altitude sickness.
• Mental Preparation: The Everest Base Camp Trekwith Helicopter Return can be challenging, both physically and mentally. You should mentally prepare yourself for the trek by visualizing it, setting achievable goals, and focusing on the positive aspects of the experience.

In summary, preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return requires physical fitness, altitude training, proper gear and packing, travel insurance, acclimatization, and mental preparation. With proper preparation and planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

Altitude sickness and how to prepare for altitude sickness during Everest Base Camp Trekking.

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common concern for trekkers who are trekking to high-altitude destinations such as Everest Base Camp. AMS occurs when your body is unable to adjust to the lower air pressure and reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. It can range from mild symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea to severe conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

Here are some ways to prepare for altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp Trek:

• Ascend Slowly: One of the best ways to prevent altitude sickness is to acclimatize properly by ascending slowly. It is recommended to stay an extra day or two at the higher altitude to allow your body to adjust to the lower air pressure and oxygen levels.
• Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water and fluids to avoid dehydration, which can exacerbate altitude sickness symptoms. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you and increase the risk of AMS.
• Eat Light and Nutritious Food: Eat light and nutritious food, including carbohydrates and high-calorie foods, to maintain your energy level. Avoid heavy and oily foods, which can make you feel nauseous and affect your digestion.
• Consider Medication: There are medications available to prevent and treat AMS. Consult with your doctor before the trek and ask about prescription medications.
• Be Aware of Symptoms: Be aware of the symptoms of AMS and monitor yourself and your fellow trekkers for any signs of altitude sickness. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.
• Seek Medical Attention if Needed. If you or anyone in your group experiences severe symptoms of AMS, it's essential to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical attention immediately.

Remember, altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or previous experience. It's essential to take it seriously and be prepared to prevent and treat it during your Everest Base Camp Trekking.

Is Travel Insurance Required during Everest Base Camp Trekking with a Helicopter Return?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return. Trekking at high altitudes comes with inherent risks, including altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and challenging terrain. A good travel insurance policy will cover any medical emergencies, evacuations, trip cancellations, or delays that may occur during your trek.

When purchasing travel insurance for your Everest Base Camp Trek, Trekking Planner Inc. wants their clients to include the following coverage:

• Emergency Medical and Evacuation Coverage: This coverage will pay for medical expenses and emergency evacuation if you suffer from any illness or injury during the trek.
• Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage: This coverage will reimburse you for non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or interrupted due to unforeseeable events such as natural disasters, strikes, or illness.
• Baggage and Personal Items Coverage: This coverage will protect your luggage and personal items against loss, damage, or theft.
• Adventure Sports Coverage: Make sure that your policy covers adventure sports, including trekking at high altitude, helicopter evacuation, and other related activities.

It's essential to read the policy carefully and understand the terms and conditions before purchasing. Make sure to declare any pre-existing medical conditions and ensure that your policy covers them.

Also, keep a copy of your travel insurance policy and emergency contact numbers with you during your trek. In case of an emergency, notify your travel insurance provider and seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

What are some of the Mountains we see along the way on the trail to Everest Base Camp?

The Everest Base Camp Trekking Trail offers breathtaking views of some of the world's highest and most iconic mountains. Here are some of the mountains you can see along the way:

• Mount Everest (8,848m): The star attraction of the trek, Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepali, is the highest peak in the world. The base camp is located at an elevation of 5,364 meters and offers stunning views of the mountain.
• Lhotse (8,516m): Lhotse is the fourth-highest mountain in the world and is located adjacent to Mount Everest. The summit of Lhotse is connected to Everest by the South Col, a vertical ridge that separates the two peaks.
• Nuptse (7,861m): Nuptse, meaning "west peak" in Nepali, is a neighboring peak of Mount Everest and Lhotse. Although it's not as high as its neighboring peaks, it offers stunning views of its steep slopes and jagged ridges.
• Ama Dablam (6,812m): Ama Dablam, meaning "mother's necklace" in Nepali, is a beautiful peak that stands out along the trekking trail. It's known for its steep, pyramid-shaped peak and is considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
• Thamserku (6,623m): Thamserku is a stunning mountain located in the Khumbu Region of Nepal. Its unique shape and proximity to the trekking trail make it one of the most photographed peaks in the region.

These are just a few of the many mountains you can see along the Everest Base Camp Trekking Trail. The views of the Himalayan range are truly awe-inspiring and are sure to be a highlight of your trekking experience.

Why go on a trek with Trekking Planner Inc.?

There are several reasons why you may consider going on a trek with Trekking Planner Inc. Here are some of the reasons:

• Expertise and Experience: Trekking Planner Inc. has been operating trekking and adventure tours in Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and India for over two decades. They have a team of experienced and professional guides, porters, and support staff who are well-versed in the trekking routes, cultures, and traditions of the Himalayan region.
• Tailor Made Itineraries: Trekking Planner Inc. offers personalized itineraries to suit your individual preferences and requirements. They can customize your trekking itinerary, accommodations, transportation, and activities based on your interests and needs.
• Safety and Security: Safety and security are paramount during trekking, and Trekking Planner Inc. takes this seriously. They provide necessary equipment, first aid kits, and oxygen cylinders during the trek to ensure your safety.
• Competitive Pricing: Trekking Planner Inc. offers competitive pricing for their trekking packages without compromising on quality or safety.
• Sustainable Tourism: Trekking Planner Inc. is committed to sustainable tourism and responsible travel practices. They work closely with local communities, support eco-tourism, and promote responsible tourism practices to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment and local culture.
• Customer Reviews: Trekking Planner Inc. has received excellent customer reviews and feedback for their services. They have a high level of customer satisfaction and are recommended by many satisfied clients.

In summary, Trekking Planner Inc. offers expert guidance, tailor-made itineraries, safety and security, competitive pricing, sustainable tourism practices, and excellent customer reviews. They are a reliable and reputable trekking company to consider for your next adventure in the Himalayas.

What are some of the difficulties during Everest Base Camp Trekking with a Helicopter Return?

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging and demanding trek that requires physical and mental preparation. Here are some of the difficulties you may encounter during the trek:

• High Altitude: Altitude sickness is a common problem during the Everest Base Camp Trek due to the high altitude. The base camp is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters, and the trek involves a gradual ascent to higher elevations, which can cause altitude sickness.
• Harsh Weather Conditions: The weather conditions in the Everest Region can be harsh and unpredictable. It can be extremely cold and windy, especially during the winter months. The trekking route is also prone to snow and ice, which can make the trail slippery and dangerous.
• Long and Challenging Walks: The trekking trail involves long and challenging walks with steep inclines and descents. You need to have a good level of physical fitness and endurance to complete the trek.
• Basic Accommodation and Facilities: The accommodation and facilities during the trek are basic, with limited access to hot showers, electricity, and phone signals. You need to be prepared for basic living conditions during the trek.
• Remote and Isolated Location: The Everest Base Camp Trek takes place in a remote and isolated location where access to medical facilities and emergency services is limited. It's important to have a good travel insurance policy and be prepared for emergencies.

In summary, the Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenging and demanding trek that requires physical and mental preparation. You need to be prepared for high altitude, harsh weather conditions, long and challenging walks, basic accommodation and facilities, and a remote and isolated location. However, with proper preparation, guidance, and support, it can be a rewarding and life-changing experience.

Everest Base Camp Daily Trekking Distance/Outline Itinerary.

The trek to Everest Base Camp typically takes around 12–14 days, depending on the specific route taken and the pace of the trekker. Here is a breakdown of the daily trekking distance with night stops:
Day 1: Lukla to Phakding (2,610 m): 8 km, 3–4 hours.
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m): 11 km, 5–6 hours.
Day 3: Namche Bazaar: Rest Day for Acclimatization.
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870 m): 10 km, 5–6 hours.
Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m): 9 km, 5–6 hours.
Day 6: Dingboche: Rest Day for Acclimatization.
Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 m): 12 km, 5–6 hours.
Day 8: Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,160 m) to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and back to Gorakshep (15 km, 8–10 hours).
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and back to Gorakshep, then trek down to Pheriche (4,371 m) (15 km, 8–10 hours).
Day 10: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (20 km, 6-7 hours).
Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla, 19 km, 6-7 hours.
Day 12: Fly from Lukla back to Kathmandu.

It's important to note that these distances and times are estimates and can vary depending on individual fitness levels, weather conditions, and the pace of the trek. Trekking Planner Inc. recommends rest days for acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

Water, Electricity, and Internet during Everest Base Camp Trekking.

During the Everest Base Camp Trek, access to water, electricity, and the internet can be limited in some areas. Here's what you can generally expect:

• Water: Drinking water is essential during the trek, and it's recommended to bring a water bottle and a way to purify the water. While bottled water is available along the route, it's not environmentally friendly and can be expensive. Many tea houses and lodges have filtered or boiled water available for a small fee, and you can also use water purification tablets or a water filtration system to treat the water from streams or taps.
• Electricity: Most tea houses and lodges along the trekking route have electricity, but it can be unreliable and often limited to a few hours in the evening. You can charge your devices for a fee at the tea houses, and it's recommended to bring a power bank as a backup.
• Internet: Internet access is available in some tea houses and lodges, but it's usually slow and unreliable. The Wi-Fi is often available for a fee, and the speed can vary depending on the location. It's best to be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of the trek.

It's important to note that the availability and quality of water, electricity, and internet can vary depending on the specific tea house or lodge, the time of year, and weather conditions. It's always a good idea to bring backup supplies and prepare for the possibility of limited access to these resources.

Local Culture and Religion around Everest Base Camp and the Trail.

Sherpa are the natives of Everest and other higher Himalayan regions; the word "sherpa" comes from Tibetan, where "east" is for sher and "pa" means people. Sherpas migrated around the high Himalayas of Nepal, around the mid-east and far eastern Himalaya ranges from eastern parts of Tibet.

Way back in more than 400 years of history, the Sherpa were normally farmers and livestock herders, like cows and yaks, interwoven with a strong Buddhist religion and fascinating cultures that you can witness walking around villages.

In every Sherpa village, one can find a monastery; some are older than 500 years, like the monastery of Thame and Pangboche villages, while the famous Monastery of Tengboche is much older, having been destroyed by a huge fire in 1991 and rebuilt to its original shapes.

As you walk from village to village, you will come across many prayer walls and religious monuments of stupas (domes) with rows of spinning prayer wheels.
Sherpa men were the earlier pioneers as mountain and trekking guides and still hold the post till the present.

Information About Flights.

From October 2019 on, most scheduled flights to Lukla from Kathmandu will run and operate from Manthali Town Airport. Flying into Lukla from Kathmandu domestic airport or flying back from Lukla to Kathmandu has been changed by the Nepal Government Civil Aviation Authority.

Since April and October 2019 onward, flights to Lukla resume from Manthali town airport, which is the main headquarter of Ramechhap District, Province No. 03 of Nepal.

The drive from Kathmandu to reach Manthali airstrip takes approximately 5 hours. which is about 154 km. approx. 500 miles from the capital Kathmandu, where a drive takes you on the B.P. Highway (a newly built tarmac road).