Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return to Lukla - 12 days

Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return to Lukla - 12 days


Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return takes you across the highest trekking trail on Earth. Located at the base of Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain, EBC is the ultimate destination for passionate hikers and adventurers. This Everest Base Camp Short Trek with helicopter return lets you visit Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, the most popular viewpoint in the Khumbu region The route to Mount Everest Base Camp short trek crosses remote Sherpa villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your trekking adventure kickstarts with a thrilling flight to Lukla, the ‘Gateway to Everest’. From Lukla, you begin your short Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return journey and head towards Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. You walk for several days over hilly terrain before finally arriving at your destination. Get awestruck with stunning views of Himalayan peaks, some of the highest in the world. Cross swaying suspension bridges built over thundering glacial rivers. The alpine landscape is covered with pristine pine and rhododendron forests and snow-covered peaks. You will find the trail adorned with Buddhist mani walls, chortens, and colorful prayer flags at intervals. Overnight stops at Sherpa settlements offer a rare chance to observe the traditional Sherpa lifestyle and culture. After your Kala Patthar trek, you return to Lukla by helicopter. This heli flight offers you a chance to fly close to some of the highest peaks in the world. An incredible adventure and cultural experience at an affordable price; this is a trip not to be missed!

How Much Does This Trip Cost?

The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.

Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

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Trip Highlights

  • Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return takes you across the highest walkable trail in the world within a short period of 12 days. 
  • Our itinerary has been designed by experts and helps you reach EBC, the base of Mount Everest, the highest mountain on Earth, and visit Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint in Everest Region, safely in the shortest time ever. The required number of acclimatization days (2 days) will have you tackling high altitudes safely and more healthily. A free day has also been added for emergencies, like flight delays or bad weather. 
  • A helicopter ride to Lukla on the return leg will save you valuable time and energy. You won't have to walk through the same trail again. Moreover, the helicopter ride will give you a rare opportunity to experience the Himalayan mountains from the sky. 
  • Overnight stays at mountain teahouses will let you experience the traditional Sherpa lifestyle and culture.
  • Walk past the Sagarmatha National Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to endangered Himalayan wildlife and flora.
  • Incredible views of the world’s tallest peaks (Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, etc.) during the Kala Patthar Trek

Is This Trip Suitable For You?

  • Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return is a moderately difficult trek. If you are physically fit and can walk for long hours without any difficulty, you can complete this short Everest trek. Prior experience in high altitude trekking can be an added advantage but not essential.
  • On this Everest Base Camp short trek, you spend 8 days on the trail. Maximum time spent walking - 8 hours, minimum - 2 hours.  On average you spend 5-6 hours walking. You carry a light daypack while your heavy luggage will be carried by the porters.
  • 2 acclimatization days (at Namche and Dingboche) for your body to get used to high altitude. The highest point of this short Everest trek is Kala Patthar at 5,550 meters.
  • The Mount Everest Base Camp short trek route is gentle with some steep ascents and descents at intervals
  • While on your Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return, you stay overnight at local teahouses run by Sherpa families

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation
Day 2 Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) and trek to Phakding 2,610m/8,561ft) - 35 minutes flight and 3 to 4 hours (8 km) trek
Day 3 Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 6 to 7 hours (10.5 km) trek
Day 4 First Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 4 to 5 hours (6 km) trek
Day 5 Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,661ft) - 5 to 6 hours (10 km) trek
Day 6 Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - 5 to 6 hours (10 km) trek
Day 7 Second Acclimatization Day at Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m) - 4 to 5 hours (4.5 km) trek
Day 8 Trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,105ft) - 6 to 7 hours (8 km) trek
Day 9 Trek to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,860ft) and hike to EBC (5,364m/17,594ft) - 7 to 8 hours (12 km) trek
Day 10 Hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,204ft), return to Lukla via helicopter
Day 11 Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 35 minutes flight
Day 12 Final Departure

Video Highlights


Route Map

Everest Base Camp Short Trek  Heli Return Route Map Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return Route Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation

A representative from our office will meet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel. Check-in and take a rest. A trip briefing will be held at our office or at your hotel’s lounge later in the day. Meet your guide and if you have any queries you can ask your guide.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2
Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,316ft) and trek to Phakding 2,610m/8,561ft) - 35 minutes flight and 3 to 4 hours (8 km) trek

Drive to the airport and catch your flight to Lukla, the Gateway to Everest. Once you arrive in Lukla you meet the rest of the crew. Sort your luggage and start your Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar Short trek. Walk past Lukla Bazar and head down to Phakding.

It is a short hike and you reach Phakding in about 3 to 4 hours. Cross a bridge over the Dudh Koshi River to finally arrive at the picturesque village of Phakding.

Overnight in Phakding.

Day 3
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 6 to 7 hours (10.5 km) trek

The trail goes through forests of pine and rhododendron. As you head higher you cross many suspension bridges, including the highest of them all the Hillary Bridge over the Imja Khola (river).

Just before you arrive in Namche you get to enjoy your first view of Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, and other 7,000 and 8,000 meter giants. Head to a teahouse and take a rest.

Overnight in Namche.

Day 4
First Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,284ft) - 4 to 5 hours (6 km) trek

Mount Everest and Ama Dablam Mount Everest and Ama Dablam view from Hotel Everest View

Spend a rest day in Namche, the Sherpa Capital. The settlement is carved on a mountainside overlooking the snow-covered Thamserku, Kantega, and Ama Dablam. Take an acclimatization hike to Hotel Everest View and Khumjung Village.

Hotel Everest View lies above Namche and offers a mesmerizing view of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.  Khumjung Village is an old Sherpa settlement with a monastery (that houses the scalp of a Yeti) and the first school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in the Khumbu Region.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 5
Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,661ft) - 5 to 6 hours (10 km) trek

on the way to tengboche On the way to Tengboche

Leave Namche and head to Tengboche. Tengboche is a small village with few houses. The village is named after its monastery Tengboche Gompa, the largest and the most important Buddhist monastery in the Everest region. You can visit the monastery with your guide and witness a Buddhist prayer ritual.

Overnight in Tengboche.

Day 6
Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - 5 to 6 hours (10 km) trek

Wake up early and catch the sunrise over Ama Dablam, a mountain that lies close to Tengboche. Ama Dablam is regarded as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.  After breakfast, hit the trail to Dingboche. As you walk past the 4,000 meters mark, you can feel the effect of high altitude. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 7
Second Acclimatization Day at Dingboche (4,410m/14,465ft) - Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m) - 4 to 5 hours (4.5 km) trek

Hike to Nagarjun Hill lies close to the village. The vegetation turns sparser and the tree line vanishes. The landscape turns stark and barren. No technical climbing is required to climb the hill. It is an uphill ascent. From the top, you can enjoy 360-degree views of Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Makalu, Lhotse, etc.

Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 8
Trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,105ft) - 6 to 7 hours (8 km) trek

Take the trail to Lobuche. Walk past Thukla and Thukla Pass. Thukla Pass is decorated with stone memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives climbing Mount Everest. Among the memorials are those dedicated to Rob Hall and Scott Fischer, whose tragic Mount Everest expedition is the subject of Jon Krakauer’s bestselling book “Into Thin Air” and the movie “Everest.”

There is also a memorial dedicated to one of the finest Nepalese climbing Sherpas, Late Babu Chiri Sherpa. He broke the world record for climbing Everest without supplementary oxygen and staying at the summit for 21 hours, and reaching the summit in a record time of 16 hours and 56 minutes. Lobuche has a few teahouses offering basic facilities.

Overnight in Lobuche.

Day 9
Trek to Gorak Shep (5,140m/16,860ft) and hike to EBC (5,364m/17,594ft) - 7 to 8 hours (12 km) trek

Near Gorekshep Near Gorekshep

This is D-Day of your Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar Short Trek. You walk up to Everest Base Camp, your destination. As you will be walking above 5,000 metres, you need to keep your face slow and steady. After reaching Gorak Shep, head to a teahouse. Have some food and after a bit of a rest, hike to Everest Base Camp.

The trail follows the Khumbu Glacier. The loose rocks and dirt on the trail can be tricky. Walk carefully as you step on the moraine. Once you reach EBC, take pictures and enjoy the incredible views. Though the summit of Mount Everest is not visible from EBC you can enjoy the views of the Ice Fall, Nuptse and Lhotse. If your trip is during climbing season you can see the colourful tents of the expedition groups.

Later return to Gorak Shep, have a warm dinner and have an early night. Overnight in Gorak Shep.

Day 10
Hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,204ft), return to Lukla via helicopter

Kala Patthar Helicopter Landing at Kala Patthar

Wake up early and start with your Kala Patthar trek. Kala Patthar is the most popular viewpoint in the Everest region. Kala Patthar trekking takes you right above Gorak Shep.

From here you can enjoy 360-degree views of some of the highest peaks in the world- Mount Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Lhotse, etc. At 5,550 meters, Kala Patthar is the highest point of your trek.

Later descend to your teahouse, bid goodbye to the trekking crew (porters and assistant guides). You board a helicopter and fly to Lukla. Fly close to the mountains and savor the bird's eye view of some of the highest peaks in the world.

Overnight in Lukla. 

Day 11
Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 35 minutes flight

Bid goodbye to your Sherpa crew and fly to Kathmandu. Once in Kathmandu, check in at your hotel and take a well-deserved rest or explore the city on your own.

Walk down Ason Bazaar, the oldest market in Kathmandu and shop for souvenirs or visit some of Kathmandu’s iconic landmarks.

Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Day 12
Final Departure

You will be driven to the airport 3 hours before your flight’s departure. If you want to indulge in more Himalayan adventures, do let us know. We have some delightful itineraries that might interest you. We can also customize your itinerary as per your needs.



Best Time to Travel & Weather Condition

Spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November) are considered the best seasons for Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return. The weather stays dry and clear during these times, making it ideal for trekking and enjoying unobstructed views of mountains. The days are warm and the nights chilly. On the downside, however, these are peak seasons, and the trails get crowded and busy.

During spring, the hillsides are verdant and covered with wildflowers, including rhododendron blooms. The climbing season and the Everest Base Camp are also transformed into a tented city filled with climbers and Sherpa guides.

Autumn is the most popular season for Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return. With the end of the wet monsoon season, which clears the skies of dust and impurities, you can enjoy crystal clear views during this season. Timing your trek around October will allow you to experience the most important festival in the Everest region, Mani Rimdu. This festival is held in the monasteries of Tengboche, Chiwong, and Thame. 


Lukla and Helicopter Flights

You will be flying to and from Lukla via a fixed-wing carrier. After completing your trek to EBC, on Day 10, you board a helicopter from Gorak Shep and fly to Lukla. From Lukla, you catch a normal flight (fixed wing) back to Kathmandu.

The helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla saves you time and energy. The flight above tall mountains, glaciers, and Sherpa settlements is an awesome aerial experience, one you will remember forever. The heli flight also lets you skip the tedious return trek via the same route to Lukla.

Flying to the Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla has its own challenges. The chief among them is the weather. The airport is built on a narrow plateau, over a cliff. Navigating the plane along the short and narrow runway is difficult when strong winds whip across the mountains. Surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world, the weather here is unpredictable and changes frequently. It would be clear and sunny one minute, and the next moment the clouds will appear, and everything will turn hazy. Flights operate only when the weather is stable and visibility clear.

The chances of your Lukla flight getting canceled cannot be ruled out. If this happens, your trek may get extended by a day or two. So come prepared and keep buffer days so that you may not miss your international flight.

If there is a long delay due to bad weather, we will secure a space for you on a helicopter flight. The cost for the heli flight is not included in the trip price and should be borne by you.

Due to congestion at the Kathmandu airport during the high season (spring and autumn), flights to and from Lukla now operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. The airport lies 132km (4hrs 30mins drive) from Kathmandu.

However, airline companies operate their first and last flights directly from Kathmandu and Lukla (KTM-LUKLA-KTM). If you book your trip early, we can try to secure a place for you on the direct flight to or from Lukla. It will be easier and more comfortable to fly directly from Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa, instead of making that additional journey to Ramechhap.

Helicopter Flights to Everest Region will operate from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.


Entry Permits & Requirements

The permits needed for the Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return are:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and
  • Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. Unlike other treks in the Nepal Himalaya, you won’t be needing a TIMS (Tourist Information Management System) card.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board’s Office in Kathmandu or at the park’s entrance gate in Monjo by paying NRS 3000. For citizens of SAARC countries, the fee is NRS 1500. You need to fill out the permit form and show your passport or a copy of your passport.

To get the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit, you need to be in Lukla. You have to pay NRS 2000 for the permit at the rural municipality counter, which lies at the edge of the village.

You won’t have to worry about queuing up to get the permits as the company, or our guides will arrange all the permits for you.


Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization

Remember, you will be trekking to the world’s highest trekking destination, Everest Region. The highest elevation you will reach is 5,550m above sea level. In this environment, there is less oxygen which will make breathing a bit difficult.

To let your body get used to the thin air, you need to walk slowly and steadily and keep your body hydrated. If you try to hasten and walk fast to reach your destination in less time, chances are you may suffer from AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness.

AMS symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, etc., are seen at elevations above 2000 meters. Usually, these symptoms occur once you reach Namche or beyond Namche.

Taking Diamox and a good night’s rest may work for mild cases. Drinking plenty of fluids (water, tea, soup, etc.) and keeping your body hydrated will also help keep the sickness at bay. One should take the necessary precautions to ensure that the condition does not worsen. But if the symptoms worsen, one may have to return to a lower elevation and get medical help.

There are clinics at Lukla, Namche, and Pheriche which offer basic care for minor ailments. In the worst-case scenario, an air evacuation will be arranged, where the patient will be flown to Kathmandu to receive medical aid. AMS, if untreated or ignored, can take your life.

Acclimatization is very important on a high-altitude trek like the Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return. Your body needs time to get used to thin air which can be done by resting at a lower altitude before reaching a higher elevation level.

Our experts have included two days in the itinerary for acclimatization. You will be spending extra days at Namche (3,440m) and Dingboche (4,410m) to acclimatize successfully before trekking further.

The chart given below will give you a rough idea about the oxygen level in the atmosphere on the trail.

 

Altitude

Oxygen Level

Lukla

2,840m/9,318ft

73%

Namche

3,440m/11,286ft

64%

Dingboche

4,410m/14,469ft

58%

Lobuche

4,910m/16,109ft

53%

Gorak Shep

5,140m/16,864ft

52%

Everest Base Camp

5,364m/17,598ft

50%

Kala Patthar

5,550m/18,209ft

50%


Drinking-Water

It is important to keep your body hydrated on the trail as dehydration also causes AMS. One should drink at least 3-4 liters of fluids daily.

We dissuade you from buying bottled water as it adds up to the thrashing problem in the mountains.  Moreover, like everything else, bottled water is also expensive in the mountains.

We highly recommend you to carry a reusable water bottle with you, one that can hold hot water.

You can use one with a steri pen or an inbuilt filtration system like LifeStraw.

You can also use water purification tablets to treat the water. While the water in the mountains tends to be pure and without impurities, it’s better not to take chances and filter or treat the water before drinking.

Using chlorine or iodine tablets to treat the water may alter its taste. You can add flavored electrolyte powder (readily available at pharmacies in Kathmandu) to mask the bitter chemical taste. Adding electrolyte to your drinking water may also be beneficial as the minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.) you lose while walking gets replenished.

Teahouses offer boiled drinking water at an additional cost. It can cost anywhere between 1 USD to 4 USD. Up to Namche, you may have to pay around 1 USD per liter or pot (every teahouse uses a different sized pot). The price increases gradually as you climb higher. You pay the highest for boiled water at Gorak Shep, i.e., 4USD.


Internet Connectivity

Despite being the world’s highest trekking trail, internet connection (though erratic and irregular at some places) is available in the Everest Region.

You can connect with your loved ones while trekking, post updates, and upload pictures on social media. You may have to pay extra for using the Wi-Fi hotspot at the lodges en route.

It will be cheaper and easier to get a sim card (preferably Ncell) in Kathmandu and purchase internet data that could last you for your entire trip. Ncell offers 3G connectivity up to Everest Base Camp (5,364m).

Everest Link, another local internet provider, also offers paid internet access on the trail. You can purchase the username and password at any of the teahouses or shops along the trail.

Packing Checklist for Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need much-complicated gear and equipment for an Everest adventure. Here’s a basic checklist of the essential items that you should not forget to bring with you during your Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return:

  • A sturdy pair of trekking boots with good ankle support
  • Rucksack or daypack (30 liters) with a waterproof cover
  • Trekking pants and waterproof trousers
  • T-shirts or shirts
  • Down Jacket
  • Wind/ waterproof light jacket
  • Fleece jumper or jacket
  • Inner Thermal (top and trouser)
  • Socks and underwear
  • Sunglasses, sun hat, woolen cap, or balaclava
  • Inner and outer gloves
  • Headlamp, power bank, and extra batteries
  • Sun protection cream, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer
  • Towel, flip-flop or rubber sandal, toiletries
  • Water bottle and water purification tablets
  • 4 season Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner

These are only some of the essential items. Find a more detailed list by clicking here.

Most of the trekking equipment is available on hire in Kathmandu. You can keep your baggage light by only packing the essential items and renting or buying the rest in Kathmandu. Shops in Thamel offer branded as well locally made gear and equipment.

You can leave your spare luggage in your hotel’s storage room. It is completely safe and free. But do make sure to lock your luggage before leaving it at the storage unit.    


Guide(s) & Staff Arrangements

Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return takes you to the highest trekking trail in the world. Having an experienced local guide accompanying you will enrich your trip in so many ways. Trekking with a person who has in-depth knowledge of the mountain will also keep you safe and secure.

When you book a trek with us, we pair you up with one of our local guides. All our guides have experience of more than 10 years and have a vast knowledge of the area you are visiting. They have completed the trekking guide course and have the required government license to work as mountain guides. They can communicate in English and have received training on wilderness first aid and crisis management.

A chief guide or trek leader will lead the trek. For every 4 trekkers, there will be an assistant guide assisting them personally. One porter will carry the luggage of 2 clients. Make sure that your luggage does not exceed 15 kg, as the porter can only carry a weight of 30 kg.

We believe in the ethical treatment of our staff. All our Guides and Porters are provided with weather-appropriate gear and clothing to battle the harsh weather in the mountains. Before the start of a trek, we ensure that our mountain guides are fully insured. They are given fair wages and treated with respect.

We seriously follow the guidelines set by IPPG (International Porter Protection Group) and offer assistance to porters to develop other skills. A portion of the booking fee goes to fund the education of our field staffs’ kids.


Travel Insurance

For Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return, you need a good travel insurance policy that offers you coverage for all activities and altitudes included in your itinerary. The highest altitude you reach is 5,550 meters, and your travel insurance should offer you suitable coverage up to this elevation.

Though we take your safety as our number one priority, we cannot rule out mishaps and emergencies that may occur at this altitude. There is less oxygen in the environment, and trekkers usually suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness, proving to be fatal if not treated on time.

Walking in a treacherous mountain environment also exposes you to physical injuries. Therefore make sure that your insurance covers the cost of all injuries and emergencies that you can possibly face during this trekking adventure.

Your insurance policy should especially cover the cost of helicopter evacuation and hospitalization in case of an accident or medical emergency, as these happen to be quite expensive. Check for vaccination requirements as some travel insurance policies makes it mandatory to immunize yourself before you leave your country. 

Before you decide on a policy, be mindful and don’t forget to read the fine print. It would be advantageous for you also to choose a company that offers insurance cover on domestic and international flight cancellations and lost or stolen baggage.


Trip Safety

We ensure the safety of our clients by following all safety protocols during the trip. This itinerary has been designed by travel experts and veteran guides who have trekked on this route innumerable times.

To prevent AMS, the required number of rest days has been added to the itinerary. Our guides always carry a first-aid kit and pulse oximeter (to measure the oxygen level in your blood) with them. The guides assigned to you have more than 10 years of experience and know what steps to take during an emergency. They are well-trained in wilderness first aid and crisis management.

If a client shows symptoms of AMS and needs to descend to a lower elevation, an assistant guide will escort them and will follow the safety protocol. He will closely monitor the client’s condition and take the required steps needed for the client's well-being.

If he/she feels alright after a night’s rest, the guide will escort the client back to join the group. But if the condition worsens, the client will be escorted down to Lukla or get airlifted to Kathmandu for expert medical aid.


A typical day on the Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Trek.

A typical day on the trail begins with a wake-up call at around 6 AM by your guide. Freshen up and get ready. Pack your belongings and head to the dining area for breakfast by 7 AM. Check your luggage for the final time and fill your water bottle before you hit the trail by 8 AM, along with your guide.

To avoid walking in the heat and enjoy clear mountains' views, you make an early start. En route, there will be short breaks to enjoy the views and take photographs. You stop for lunch at a local teahouse around noon or mid-day. After a quick rest of about an hour or 40 minutes, you get back on the trail and continue till you reach your overnight stop.

Upon reaching the stop for the night, you head to your teahouse, check in, and have some rest. Tea with some light refreshments (cookies or biscuits) will be served at 5 PM.

Exchange stories or play cards with other trekkers and sherpas till dinner is served (around 7 PM). After dinner, your guide will brief you about the next day’s trek – the route you will take, difficulty, where you will stop for lunch, etc. Afterward, retire for the night and have a well-deserved rest.

On average, you may have to walk 6 to 7 hours daily. The trek to Phakding is the shortest and the easiest, while the hike to Everest Base Camp from Lobuche on the 9th day could possibly be your toughest. On Day 10, a hike to Kala Patthar for the sunrise view is scheduled. So you will have to wake up before 4 AM to reach Kala Patthar before sunrise. Your guide will share the details regarding the hike during the after-dinner briefing on Day 9. 


Responsible Travel

Travel responsibly and try to limit any negative impact on the environment. Limit the use of plastic and be mindful of throwing waste in the mountains. When you trek with us, you will be supporting local communities (from the guides and porters to teahouse owners). We, as a company, support sustainable tourism and patronize local businesses. We partner with service providers who work towards saving the environment.  As an active member of KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project), we make sure that our trips are environmentally friendly.

Altitude Map

Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return 12 days Altitude Map

Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return to Lukla FAQs

Teahouses offer boiled and filtered drinking water to trekkers for a price. Though you can purchase bottled water, we discourage the use of plastic bottled water on the trail because of the adverse effect on the environment. You can bring along with you a reusable bottle nd fill it up with drinking water. 

Your guide will check the condition of the water of the filtered water before you purchase it. Please be assured that our guide will thoroughly check whether the water has been boiled and treated properly before you drink it.

In all our Everest Treks the teahouses that we use have western toilets. In luxury lodges and teahouses in the lower elevations the rooms come with attached bathrooms and hot showers. At higher elevations the facilities may be a bit basic and you may have to share the bathroom with other travellers. Please do note that in case of extreme cold, the water in the toilet basin may freeze and you may have to use an Asian (also known as ‘squat’) style of toilet that is located outside. Please do carry toilet paper rolls with you at all times. It is important that you carry enough rolls of toilet paper and hand sanitizer while trekking.

Each day you can expect 5 to 7 hours of walking, covering around 10 to 14 km. However when you reach 3500m, you will be walking around 5 to 7 hours but the distance covered will be less as you will be walking slowly at higher altitudes. We want you to know that all our itineraries are flexible and can be altered by weather, geographical and physical condition of the individual participants.

Yes, wifi hotspots are available on the Everest Base Camp trail. But please do keep in mind, due to the mountainous terrain the network maybe erratic. Often times the signal gets lost or the strength is poor.

No, the summit of Mount Everest is not visible from Everest Base Camp.  Rising above 8000 metres, the mountain is just too gigantic to be viewed in its entirety from its base. The summit of Everest can be viewed from Kala Patthar and from places en route to EBC. If you want to view Mount Everest without having to trek to Everest region, you can do it by driving to Nagarkot, taking an Everest Mountain Flight and an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour. The best view you get of Mount Everest is from Kala Patthar.

When you are up in the mountains in Nepal, we would suggest you to be ready for anything. Weather forecasts for Lukla are never correct and different sources will give you different information. If it is a really bad day in terms of weather, the airlines will themselves cancel the flight and you might have to wait till the weather clears. Yes, flying in high altitude is never easy, even on a clear sunny day, the plane might face turbulence because of the wind blowing from the mountains. But overall the flight to Lukla is very exciting and it’s an experience that you will never forget

There is mobile network in the Everest Region. If you get a local SIM (Ncell or NTC) you can use your mobile phone to communicate easily. As this is a mountainous area the network may get erratic at times. At most places the network is good enough for internet use and video calls. Our climbing guides also carry a Satellite Phone for emergencies.

These are the best months to do this trek, as the weather is mild and the temperatures range from 12 to 15 degrees. The skies generally remain clear and the days are pleasant and warm. You can expect an occasional spring shower and hazy weather during spring. The mountain views are stunning in September, as there is more snow on the mountains. Nights can be freezing as the temperature dips after sun down.

As Everest Base Camp is situated at a high altitude of 5,364 metres, you spend only 1 to 2 hours at the base camp. Since the base camp lies at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain Mount Everest, the hike to EBC is probably the highlight of your trek. Though one cannot view the summit of Mount Everest from the base camp (as the mountain is too huge) you can get close up views of the massive walls of Everest, Khumbutse, Lingtren and Nuptse. The Khumbu Icefall appears spectacular. Though the icefall lies close to the Base Camp, it is not possible explore it as you need proper climbing gear to walk on it. But you get to explore the actual base camp of the Everest expedition groups. During climbing season, it is like a mini city of tents and you get to meet mountaineers (sometimes celebrities too!) from different countries attempting to summit Mount Everest. After taking pictures and soaking in the magnificent views you descend down to Gorak Shep again. Please do note the visibility of mountains depends on the weather. If it’s foggy you may not get good views of the mountains.

No, we do not spend the night at Everest Base Camp as there are no teahouses or lodges there. Moreover it is advisable and more comfortable to spend the night at a lower elevation. After enjoying the views we trek down to Gorak Shep and stay overnight at a local teahouse.

You need to be in good shape and have an ability to walk 6 – 7 hours uphill and downhill per day. This trek is suitable for passionate trekkers. Positive attitude, excellent health, and strong determination are required for successful finish. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Besides, it is advisable to trek with a highly reputed trek operator like us, with experienced guides who can help you with significant mental preparation with a personal touch.

Regarding the difficulty, the only challenging factor is the altitude. Our Everest Base Camp trek itinerary provides ample time for acclimatization. Neither ropes nor ice picks are needed for this trip and no vertical climbs are involved. Novice travelers in a good physical shape, who exercise regularly, has positive attitude and has healthy heart and lungs can easily complete this adventurous trip.

You can either buy bottled mineral water or fill up a reusable water bottle with boiled or sterilized water. During the trek, the teahouses or lodges serve you bottled and filtered water which is generally safe and have to be paid for. A liter of water would cost anything between 1 to 4 USD. As you go higher the cost of all commodities, including water, increases. But do note there is no dearth or scarcity of drinking water at teahouses. We encourage our guest to use iodine and other purifying agents to treat the water before drinking.  You need to drink at least 3-4 litres of water each day to stay hydrated at higher altitudes.  Keeping your body hydrated helps you to keep away the symptoms altitude sickness.

No, the company won’t provide drinking water or any extra drinks or beverages other than the ones that are specified in the trip cost.

Please do note that if you are traveling in a group, a member falling sick won’t disrupt your trip. While the sick person will be taken care of, the rest of the group will be able to continue with the trip.

If someone becomes ill on the trail your trekking guide will take the sick person’s condition on account and decide he or she shall continue with the trek or return to a lower elevation and wait for the rest of the group. If his or her condition is serious then the person will be flown by air ambulance to Kathmandu or Pokhara for expert medical attention. An assistant will take care of the sick person, while the rest of the group shall proceed onwards and complete the trip as per the itinerary. 

If you want to add extra activities and sites to your itinerary it can be done. Our Travel Consultant will help you customize your trip. Just let us know which places you want to visit and what you want to do and we will add these in your itinerary.

While tipping is not mandatory it is a nice way of showing your appreciation to the people who have helped you enrich your holiday experience. It all depends on how far you are pleased and satisfied with their services. There is no fixed amount, but many of our clients offer 8-10 percent of the total tour price as tips.   

We would recommend all our clients to purchase travel insurance before booking any of our treks. Trust us you will have a pleasant holiday knowing that you have a good insurance cover. In the event of any sickness or injury while trekking in the mountains, the cost of emergency treatment and evacuation will be considerable. Therefore, traveling with an insurance cover is strongly recommended for everyone who signs up for any of our trips. But be careful while choosing a policy as some policies make special exceptions for adventure travel.

Do read the fine print. Before buying insurance make sure your insurance company is aware of your travel itinerary and is agreeable to cover all activities being undertaken during the trip. Such as if you are planning to trek or climb (mountaineering expedition) in the Himalayas, your insurance must cover emergency air ambulance/helicopter rescue including medical expenses. For a group tour in an urban area, insurance cover of air ambulance or helicopter rescue is not mandatory. While booking a trip with us you need to send us a copy of your insurance policy (e.g. your insurance certificate) or carry it with you while you come for the trip.

No, you cannot get insurance in Nepal. Please also note that Third Rock Adventures does not arrange or sell insurance.

Please do note, all our trekking itineraries incorporate adequate number of acclimatization days. You will get an extra day’s rest at a lower elevation to prepare your body for a walk up in the higher reaches.

AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness usually occurs due to the lack of oxygen in the atmosphere in high altitudes. Our body is not used to walking in high altitude and it requires a lot of time to adapt to thin air in the mountains. Technically there is no way of stopping AMS but you can surely prevent it by following the given tips:

  • Keep your body hydrated. Drink at least 4 liters of water daily.
  • Give up smoking, alcohol and caffeine, the major causes of dehydration and headache.
  • Go slow- it’s not a race. Take plenty of time to acclimatize to the increase in altitude.
  • Don’t skip the acclimatization day. Take Diamox, an over-the-counter pill used to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness.

We carry a first-aid box with us while trekking. But if you want you can carry along some essential medicines like ibuprofen, codeine, paracetamol, lozenges, anti-diarrhea tablets and diamox for AMS.

You need to have local currency to purchase items on the trail. While Lukla and Namche in the Everest Region may have lodges that would accept payment with cards, we strongly advise to carry enough local cash with you to buy essential items en route. You can exchange your currency at any of the money exchange centres in Kathmandu or use your credit or debit card at the local ATMs to get local currency.

Most of the guides in our adventure company come from the mountainous areas. They are carefully selected on the basis of their experience, leadership skills and personal aptitude. We provide guides that are experienced and fluent in English. With the objective of sustaining local communities, we employ guides from different ethnic backgrounds who have adequate knowledge about the culture, ecosystem, flora and fauna, geography and history of Nepal.

Our guides have the required government license to guide tourists. They have all gone through intensive training programs like wilderness first aid, trekking guide training, eco training workshop and rock climbing, ice climbing and mountaineering, which are certified and approved by the government of Nepal.

You can store it at your hotel (most hotels in Kathmandu have storage facilities) or you can leave it at our office.


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99%
Based on 21 reviews


Latest Trip Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.

Kase Joseph
flagsUnited States of America
Nov 28, 2022

EBC and return to lukla via heli

I am so grateful to Naba and his company for organizing this great trek for me. The trek was superb, with my guide Bimal who was energetic and friendly. Everything was simply the best. Highly recommended trek and travel agency.
Best Destination,Good Value,
Yes
Frankie Dunlap
flagsUnited States of America
Nov 28, 2022

Trek to Everest Base Camp

Jerry and I are on 15-day official vacation and did this EBC trek organized by Third Rock. We really enjoyed this trek and the mountains are magical. We were lucky that every day the weather was open. We chose to stay one more day in Kathamndu exploring the world-heritage sites. We absolutely loved our trek and want to recommend Third Rock for anyone willing to do trek in Nepal
For EBC trek and heli tour above the Himalayas
Heli view and the local people's hospitality
Nepal is a beautiful country and you must explore Nepal
Simeon Schultz
flagsUnited States of America
Nov 28, 2022

Amazing Trek

We did this trek and everything went pretty well. Dingboche view as not so great but as we ascended higher the other next day, the weather was clear and the mountains were aweinspiring. Our guide and assistance guide went above and beyond to serve us the best. This shows how concerned are the team and the company to offer us the best service. We are elated to have done this trek through them.
Nora Leclercq
flagsBelgium
Nov 28, 2022

Best Travel Company

Naba was open to all my requests and he customized the itinerary for me. I added an extra day in Namche. While returning from Kalapar, we board a heli to Lukla for the perfect end of this adventure. I reached EBC and had the best photos for my photo gallery.
Best Destination,Good Value,
Yes
Julia Green
flagsUnited States of America
Nov 27, 2022

EBC trek with heli return

My friend leilani suggested me this trek. I was so confused about whether to do 0ver 14 days trek or this one. But I finally chose this trek. It was a wonderful experience. The mountains were in their full beauty and the villages were charming. The local people welcomed our team with great care. We are more thank satisfied with what they offered. They did great job for our satisfaction. And for this, I want to recommend them to everyone who are willing to do this trek.
Bruno Gantzmann
flagsGermany
Oct 24, 2022

EBC adventure

I recently completed 12 days EBC trek and now in India for my India tour organized by Third Rock Adventures. I am help but recommend them for Nepal trek. They have a professional team to organize and manage the trip for you. You can rest assure that you will be served the best.
Basil Thomas
flagsMexico
Oct 07, 2022

Great Trek

I was in contact with my friend Dol and he recommended this itinerary to me. I booked without any hesitation and wholeheartedly loved the adventure to EBC and back on heli. The price was reasonable. Naba helped me with everything before flying to Nepal. I am traveling to Bhutan and I am doing it with Third Rock again.
Leilani Franks
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 06, 2022

EBC heli trek

Highly recommended trekking company in Nepal. I was recommnded by my friends. This trek is great option of 14days trek to Everest Base Camp.
Savva Osipov
flagsRussian Federation
Sep 20, 2022

Everest Base Camp Trip

Our trek to the base camp of everest was organized by Third Rock Adventure and we are satisfied and happy beyond our expectation. They have good chain of hotel in Thamel and have good contact in Everest area. My friends also did ABC and Poon Hill trek with them. We love how they serve us and recommend according to our interest. We recommend them to youl; all you have to do is text Naba on FB or Whatsapp and he will arrange every thig for you with detail information for the trek. You will love it. Just do it.
Nazariy Orlov
flagsRussian Federation
Sep 15, 2022

EBC adventure

I did this trek because I loved the itinerary. After days of the trek, it would be best to fly on a heli from above 5000m to Lukla. The trek went well and we are back home with countless memories.
Clinton Potts
flagsArgentina
May 25, 2022

Beautiful EBC

My cousin and I did this amazing ebc short trek. We talked with Naba and got details for the trek. He was genuine and even came to pickup at the airport. The hotel in KTM was great and the food wasgreat. My guide Rishi helped me do shopping in THamel before flying to Lukla. The trek was moderate for me. We loved the view from Namche and Kala Patthar. The heli service was great as well.
Evan Dawson
flagsUnited States of America
May 21, 2022

EBC + Heli return

The heli return from Kalapatar was full-on adventure and the most exciting part of this trek. We traversed all the way from Lukla to Kalapatar and had the best view there. Heli came to the viewpoint and boarded us to Lukla before heading to Kathmandu. It was the best experience of my life.
Miron Lebedev
flagsRussian Federation
Apr 22, 2022

EBC heli trek

i chose this itinerary as I had few days and it had 2 acclimatization days best for someone like me. I also loved the idea of flying on heli back to Lukla from altitude over 5000m. My guide was really the nicest guide I ave ever met. He would do eveything on his hand to make sure I was enjoying the adventure and that my comfort was great. That said, you cannot seek for luxury at such height and it's an opportunity to taste new lifestyle. I am glad that I did this trek and I am longing for another trek in the Himlayas of Nepal. I will definitely do Langtang trek and with the same guide again.
Luther Protz
flagsGermany
Apr 19, 2022

Heli Return and EBC trek

fINALLY did EBC trek and heli experience as well. My friend insisted to do this although the price for this itinerary was expensive when compared to regular 14-day EBC trek. I didn't regret a bit. The company looked after us every single day. The local guide spoke good english and had decade of experience. Highly recommended travel company for any trek in Nepal.
Kieran Murphy
flagsUnited Kingdom
Apr 10, 2022

Lukla Heli Ride

It was an amazing adventure to EBC and return by heli. We absolutely enjoyed the trek. The guide made sure we enjoyed every day. Our extra day in Namche and Dingboche was a great deal. We never had a sign of altitude sign although it was our first time. The weather was perfect, but the trail was a bit crowdy. But the guide made sure everything was smoothly operated.
Best and Selected Tours,
Yes
We didn't have time to do 14 day trek.
that few minutes at Kala Patthar.
If you're short on time, you have a great option to hop on a heli back to Lukla.
Xavier Gosling
flagsCanada
Apr 10, 2022

Beautiful Adventure

The three of us did Everest Base Camp Short Trek Heli Return because we had less than 14 days in hand. To overcome that Naba recommended heli return to Lukla from Kala Patthar. It was a perfect itinerary for us. We customized the itinerary to 11 days. The team was cooperative and friendly, and talking about the guide, he was the fourth friend on the adventure with us.
Recommended by Friend,
Yes
Hendrix Lane
flagsCanada
Mar 10, 2022

EBC trek with Heli Return

Trekked up to Kala Patthar and returned to Lukla by Helicopter. It was a superb experience. Everything was just great. Our guide was such an amazing person.
Best Destination,
Yes
Jeremy Farrer
flagsUnited States of America
Sep 13, 2019

Awesome Trekking to Everest Base Camp

Rocked at base camp of Everest with Third Rock Adventures- had lifetime experience! Admittedly without the awesome field staff of Third Rock Adventures, I wouldn't have enjoyed much. First of all, I want to thank my guide, who was superb, superb with every little task and decision he made throughout the trek. Hadn't I followed his decisions, there would have many problems, I realized it the moment he gave me some medicine and my dizziness faded like wind. Our flight to Lukla was thrilling and I enjoyed every second. Our trek started right then- trekked through dramatic landscape, with constant backdrop of majestic mountain. Crossing the suspension bridge was another beautiful moment that I will reminiscence for my whole life. Kala Patthar, the vantage point for breath-taking views of mountains was the best part of this trek. Every day was amazing day, met many foreigner like me who were on their quest to Everest Base Camp. My guide managed for every little things I could not have thought of!!! Imagine on an adventure to the himalayas where only thing you do is enjoy your trek and that's what Third Rock Adventures offer as their quality service to you. I recommend Third Rock Adventures for any trek especially EBC Trek.
embark on this adventure for lifetime experience
Tineke S.
flagsNorway
Sep 13, 2019

the best hike and the best memories

Just spent 12 days hiking with ThirdRockadventures for everestbasecamp, whit the guide Depack. Everything was well arranged from the beginning, and if I had any worries og questions prior to the trip, the third rock would answer any questions at any time, in a very professional way. They picked us up at the airport, and delivered us for departure when the hike was over. Good service from start to end. Depack, the guide, was very lovable and caring all of the way, showing us the best ways of hiking, telling us facts about the mountains surrounding us, and cared for us in the best way all the way. I was never worried for anything, and i I was, Depack would ease me in no time. Depack is a very good, dedicated and experience guide, worth every trust. Leading us the right way, whit good sense of humor, respect, and very good locale knowledge. His English was excellent.
Recommended this trip
Nicolas Tardif
flagsGermany
Sep 13, 2019

Beautiiful EBC trip

Namasste! Nepal ! I learned this from my trip to Nepal. I recently completed EBC Trek. It was beautiiful trip. Thanks to Third Rock Adventures. They are very very good company. I am again coming to Nepal with Third Rock Adventures. I am planning for next adventure to Mera Peak Climbing. One of the travel consultent is already starting to help me with gears and clothing and trainings. I am constantly in touch with them beforehand. Namasste to Third Rock Adventures family
Jasmine Beeton
flagsAustralia
Sep 05, 2019

Perfect trek to Everest

This trek is more than just a trek for me- I have lots of memories from this trek, most of which are new and beautiful. I saw and shared the trail with Yak. My guide shared amazing stories and insight into the trek. I met with Sherpa people and slept at their teahouse. Though this trek was a bit rough for me, my guide made it happen. His experience was really helpful for me. My hike to Kalapatar was amazing. It was a bit cold there but the views were out of this world. The 360 degree view of the Himalayas was truly incredible. And from their, my heli flight was fantastic. I was flying above the mountains. Back in Kathmandu, farewell dinner was perfect. Overall, this trip was a perfect trip. I am so in love with mountains and Nepal. Recently I am planning for another trek to Nepal. I will go with Third Rock Again.
Yes
99%

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Contact Us

USA & Canada
Australia
51 Spring Street, Thomastown Vic 3074
Europe
864 route de la Marqueze, 40230 Josse
Nepal
Keshar Mahal Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tibet
Sera Road/ Tashi Xintsun, Lhasa, Tibet
Bhutan
Changlam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan