Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Overview

Our trekking has created a special trekking package for those eager to reach Everest Base Camp (EBC) but with limited vacation time. This 12-day short yet action-packed trekking itinerary is designed to fit your schedule and budget. You’ll arrive at the base camp just like every other trekker, but the advantage of this package is that you won’t need to trek back to Lukla. Instead, you’ll have the opportunity to fly directly back to Kathmandu from Gorak Shep via a helicopter, saving you both time and energy.

Similar to other EBC treks, you will traverse through Sagarmatha National Park, spend a day in Namche Bazaar, and immerse yourself in the Sherpa lifestyle. Throughout the journey, you will be treated to stunning views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Thamserku, Pumori, and many more. The best vantage point for these majestic mountains is from the summit of Kala Patthar, where you can enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of the mountain range.

We will have a helicopter ready for you at Gorak Shep, allowing you to fly back to Kathmandu while taking in breathtaking aerial views of Gokyo Lakes, numerous peaks, and spectacular landscapes. This short yet thrilling trek to EBC promises to provide you with a sense of achievement and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Route to Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Your Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return begins in Kathmandu, where our team welcomes you and assists with preparations. During the main trekking seasons (spring and autumn), you’ll drive to Ramechhap for a short flight to Lukla. In the off-season, direct flights from Kathmandu may be available. The trek starts from Lukla, following the scenic Dudh Koshi River valley through Phakding and on to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa town where we spend an acclimatization day.

We then continue the ascent through Tengboche, known for its beautiful monastery and panoramic mountain views, before heading to Dingboche and Lobuche. After acclimatizing at higher altitudes, we reach Gorakshep, the final village before Everest Base Camp. From here, we trek to the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak. The next morning, a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) offers a breathtaking panorama of Mt. Everest and surrounding giants.

Instead of retracing the trail, you’ll board a helicopter at Gorakshep and enjoy a dramatic aerial journey back to Kathmandu, flying over glaciers, mountain valleys, and iconic Himalayan peaks—an unforgettable finale to your Everest adventure.

Accommodation during Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

In Kathmandu we provide comfortable accommodation in 3-star hotels with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis.(Private room accommodation can be organized at an extra cost)
During the trek, we provide comfortable teahouse accommodation on a twin-sharing basis. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging are available at an additional cost

Meals and Drinking water on Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

During the trek, you will be provided with three fresh and nutritious meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—served at local teahouses. You can choose your meals from the teahouse menu, which typically includes traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), as well as a variety of options such as Tibetan bread, momos, noodles, fried rice, soups, pasta, pancakes, and eggs. The meals are simple yet freshly prepared and offer the energy you need for high-altitude trekking.

Staying hydrated is essential during the trek. While bottled water is available for purchase along the trail, we highly encourage the use of a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. Our guide will provide water purification tablets or drops so you always have access to safe drinking water throughout the journey.

Required Permits for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3,000 per person.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: NPR 2,000 per person

Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Autumn (September to November) – Most Popular Season:
Autumn is the ideal time for the Everest Base Camp Trek. The skies are clear, the mountain views are stunning, and the weather is stable. This is also the busiest season on the trail, offering a vibrant atmosphere and excellent flying conditions for the helicopter return.
Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended:
Trekking during the monsoon is challenging due to heavy rain, slippery trails, flight delays, and limited mountain visibility. However, the landscapes are lush and green. It’s suitable only for experienced trekkers seeking solitude and don’t mind unpredictable conditions.
Winter (December to February) – Cold but Scenic:
While the trail is peaceful and the mountain views remain breathtaking, winter brings freezing temperatures, especially above 4,000 meters. Snowfall can block passes and affect flight operations, including helicopter returns. Trekking is possible but requires preparation for extreme cold.
Spring (March to May) – Second Most Popular Season:
Spring brings warm days, rhododendron blooms, and clear skies. It’s a great time to trek with fewer crowds than in autumn and reliable conditions for both trekking and the helicopter flight back from Gorakshep.