Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 12 Days

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Join the 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return and discover the dramatic diversity of the high-altitude Himalayan landscape. Walk through ancient Sherpa villages while soaking in breathtaking views of towering mountain peaks. Designed for seasoned trekkers, this adventure perfectly blends high-altitude challenge with rich cultural experiences, offering a truly rewarding journey along the legendary Everest trails.

This Everest Base Camp trek with heli return includes an exhilarating flight to Lukla, deep cultural immersion in the Sherpa heartland, and two essential acclimatization days before reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and the iconic viewpoint of Kala Patthar (5,555m). After completing the trek, enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight back, soaring above the Himalayas for a memorable and comfortable return journey.

Duration
12 Days
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Country
Nepal
Max Altitude
5,555 meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Group Size
Flexible
Activities
Trekking and Hiking
Best Time
March - May | Sep - Dec

Nature Lovers Treks and Tours takes you on a spectacular 12-day high-altitude adventure to the foot of the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest, with a scenic helicopter return from the mountains. Designed for experienced trekkers, this premium EBC journey with heli return traverses picturesque Sherpa villages and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan giants, while ensuring a faster, more comfortable and unforgettable return journey.

Delve deep into the Sherpa heartland as you explore unique culture and mountain lifestyles along trails that pass through the dramatic Dudh Koshi Gorge, cross thrilling suspension bridges, and wind through the rugged Himalayan terrain.

Your 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return begins in Kathmandu or Ramechhap (Manthali) with a scenic flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla. From Lukla, you start your trek into Sagarmatha National Park, walking through lush forests and alpine landscapes as the altitude gradually increases. Along the way, you visit famous landmarks such as Namche Bazaar—the bustling trade hub of the Khumbu—and the spiritual center of Tengboche Monastery.

This trek presents real physical challenges, but the rewards are extraordinary. You will be treated to constant views of the Himalayas, including the Khumbu Icefall, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse. To ensure your safety and success, we include two essential acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the altitude.

After reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and climbing Kala Patthar (5,555m) for the best panoramic views of Everest, you will enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight back over glaciers, valleys, and towering peaks—turning your return journey into one of the highlights of the entire adventure.

Fulfill your Himalayan dreams in just 12 days—with comfort, safety, and style.
Secure your Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return today. 2026/2027 slots are limited.

Why Go on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?

Standing at the foot of Mount Everest is every trekker’s dream. Nature Lovers Treks and Tours makes this dream even more special by combining the classic EBC trek with a luxurious and time-saving helicopter return.

Here are the top reasons to choose this trip:

Reach Everest Base Camp: Follow the legendary trails of the Khumbu region through beautiful Sherpa villages and dramatic Himalayan landscapes to reach Everest Base Camp. Witness the mighty Khumbu Icefall and the lively expedition atmosphere where climbers prepare for their summit attempts.

Sunrise View from Kala Patthar (5,555m): Kala Patthar is the highest point of your journey. You’ll start before dawn to reach the viewpoint just in time to watch the sun paint Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse in golden colors—one of the most iconic mountain views in the world.

Deep Sherpa Cultural Experience: Visit traditional villages, ancient mani walls, prayer flags, and famous monasteries like Tengboche. Experience warm Sherpa hospitality and learn about their high-altitude lifestyle and Buddhist traditions.

Scenic Helicopter Return: Instead of retracing the same trail, you’ll fly back by helicopter over glaciers, deep valleys, and massive Himalayan peaks—saving time and adding a once-in-a-lifetime aerial experience to your journey.

A Typical Day on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Your days begin early to take advantage of stable mountain weather. After a hearty breakfast (often Tibetan bread or porridge), you’ll start trekking with your guide through landscapes that shift from forests to alpine terrain.

Lunch is taken at a teahouse along the trail, usually with a filling dal-bhat meal. In the afternoon, you continue trekking at a steady, comfortable pace, allowing your body to adapt to the altitude.

By late afternoon, you reach your teahouse. Evenings are spent relaxing in the dining hall, sharing stories, playing games, and enjoying dinner. Your guide will brief you about the next day’s plan before you rest.

Cost of Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 2026/2027

Nature Lovers Treks and Tours offers an all-inclusive package for this premium Himalayan adventure. The cost depends on accommodation choices, group size, and helicopter logistics.

Our package typically includes:

  • All permits and park fees
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu/Ramechhap–Lukla)
  • Helicopter return flight from the Everest region
  • Certified trekking guide and porters
  • Full-board meals during the trek
  • Teahouse accommodation

For a detailed quote, please contact our travel experts.

Major Highlights of the 12-Day Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return

  • Scenic flight from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla
  • Trek through beautiful valleys and cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge
  • Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
  • Visit Tengboche Monastery with stunning Ama Dablam views
  • Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
  • Climb Kala Patthar (5,555m) for the best Everest panorama
  • Breathtaking helicopter flight back over the Himalayas
  • Deep cultural immersion in Sherpa villages and monasteries

Customized Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 2026/2027

This 12-day itinerary is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, covering all logistics from transport and flights to guides, meals, and accommodation.

However, we also offer fully customized options:

  • Upgrade to luxury lodges
  • Change helicopter pickup location
  • Extend your trek or add side trips
  • Private or group departures

Tell us your preferences, and our travel experts will design the perfect Himalayan adventure for you.

Short Itinerary & Altitude

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 12 Days

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 12 Days Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400m) and transfer to Hotel

Your 12-day Nepal Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return officially begins upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representatives will meet you at the arrival gates and assist with your transfer to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Upon checking into your hotel, you can explore the vibrant capital of the country and immerse yourself in its incredible atmosphere. In the evening, you will meet our company representative for the trek briefing.

Day 2

Fly from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla (2,860m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m)

After an early morning breakfast in Kathmandu, we transfer to the airport for an exciting scenic mountain flight to Lukla, home to one of the world’s most adventurous airports. The short but spectacular flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and rolling hills of eastern Nepal.

Upon arrival at Lukla, we meet our trekking crew, organize our gear, and begin our Everest Base Camp trek. The trail gently descends through beautiful Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags, following the Dudh Koshi River. This easy first day walk helps you gradually adapt to the trekking rhythm. We reach Phakding, a charming riverside village, and stay overnight in a comfortable teahouse.

Day 3

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Today’s trek follows the Dudh Koshi River upstream, crossing several impressive suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. We enter Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) at Monjo after permit checks.

From here, the trail climbs steeply through pine forests toward Namche Bazaar, the main trading center and Sherpa capital of the Everest region. Along the way, if the weather is clear, you will catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. After reaching Namche, you can explore local bakeries, cafes, shops, and enjoy stunning views of Kongde Ri and Thamserku.

Day 4

Acclimatization Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) from Namche

This is an important day to acclimatize and allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. Instead of resting completely, we take a short acclimatization hike to higher viewpoints.

Options include hiking to the Everest View Hotel, Syangboche Airport, and visiting Khumjung and Khunde villages, home to the Edmund Hillary School and ancient monasteries. From these viewpoints, enjoy spectacular panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega. After the hike, return to Namche for a relaxed afternoon.

Day 5

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)

The trail from Namche offers some of the most scenic views of the entire trek, with magnificent panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. We walk along a beautiful contour trail to Kyangjuma before descending to Phunki Thanga for lunch.

After crossing the river, we begin a steady uphill climb through rhododendron and pine forests to reach Tengboche Monastery, the most important and spiritual monastery in the Everest region. You may attend an evening prayer ceremony and receive blessings from the monks for a safe journey to Everest Base Camp.

Day 6

Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)

Today, we leave the forested zone and enter the high alpine landscape of the Khumbu region. Descending through beautiful forests, we cross a suspension bridge and reach Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa settlements.

From here, the trail continues via Shomare to Dingboche, offering stunning close-up views of Ama Dablam, often considered the most beautiful mountain in the Himalayas. Dingboche lies in a wide, scenic valley surrounded by stone-walled fields and dramatic Himalayan peaks.

Day 7

Acclimatization Hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m) from Dingboche

Another crucial acclimatization day. We take an optional hike either to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m) or toward Chukhung Valley. The hike to Nangkartshang offers breathtaking panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and the Imja Valley.

These hikes significantly help your body adapt to the altitude and prepare you for the higher elevations ahead. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere of Dingboche.

Day 8

Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m) via Thukla Pass

We continue our journey overlooking the Pheriche valley, walking through a stark but beautiful alpine landscape. After reaching Thukla (Dughla), we climb a steep ridge to Thukla Pass, where we visit the Everest Memorial dedicated to climbers who lost their lives in the Himalayas.

From here, the trail gradually ascends to Lobuche, offering dramatic views of Pumori, Nuptse, and Lobuche Peak. The cold, high-altitude environment reminds us that we are now deep in the heart of the high Himalayas.

Day 9

Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,164m) and hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

Today is the most important and emotional day of the trek. We walk along the Khumbu Glacier to Gorakshep, have lunch, and then continue toward Everest Base Camp.

The trail winds through rocky moraines and glacial terrain until we finally reach Everest Base Camp, standing face-to-face with the Khumbu Icefall and surrounded by towering Himalayan giants such as Nuptse, Pumori, and Khumbutse. After celebrating and taking photos, we return to Gorakshep for the night.

Day 10

Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m) & Helicopter Flight to Lukla

Early in the morning, we hike to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint in the Everest region. From the summit, enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and the entire Khumbu Glacier — this is the best close-up view of Everest you can get without climbing it.

After descending to Gorakshep, we prepare for the spectacular helicopter flight back to Lukla. The flight offers unforgettable aerial views of glaciers, valleys, and Himalayan peaks, turning the return journey into a luxury Himalayan experience.

Day 11

Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu/Ramechhap and transfer to the hotel

Another breathtaking flight to refresh your soul, retracing your path back to Kathmandu to relax, rejoice, and gently wind down after an arduous journey.

Day 12

Final Departure from Nepal

Your 12-day Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return officially concludes today. Prepare to leave the hotel for the airport at least 3 hours before your boarding time. Nature Lovers Treks and Tours representative will assist in transferring to Tribhuvan International Airport in a private vehicle.

Still Confused?
No worries. Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop on a private vehicle
  • Premium Hotel in Kathmandu on the Bed and Breakfast basis
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu/Manthali – Lukla – Kathmandu/Manthali including airport transfers
  • Shared Helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla (charter a helicopter privately for an additional fee)
  • Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park entry permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
  • Accommodation during the trek at the best available tea houses/lodges (twin sharing basis)
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits
  • Professional, government-licensed English-speaking trek guide
  • Salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, and transportation for the guide
  • First aid medical kit carried by the guide
  • Complementary company t-shirt, company duffel bag & a route map
  • Complementary farewell dinner
  • Trek completion certificate
  • All government taxes and service charges

Excludes

  • International airfare and Nepal entry visa fee (payable on arrival at Kathmandu airport)
  • Meals and sightseeing in Kathmandu
  • Travel insurance (must cover emergency evacuation and medical expenses)
  • Porter service
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Extra night(s), outside of the plan
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled water, and snacks during the trek
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and other personal expenses at lodges
  • Tips for the field staff (highly recommended)

Dates & Availability

Select Departure Dates
Mar 2026
Apr 2026
May 2026
Sep 2026
Oct 2026
Nov 2026
02 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
13 Mar, 2026
Ends on Friday
Guaranteed
US$2199
US$2499
09 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
20 Mar, 2026
Ends on Friday
Guaranteed
US$2199
US$2499
16 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
27 Mar, 2026
Ends on Friday
Guaranteed
US$2199
US$2499
23 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
03 Apr, 2026
Ends on Friday
Guaranteed
US$2199
US$2499
30 Mar, 2026
Starts on Monday
10 Apr, 2026
Ends on Friday
Guaranteed
US$2199
US$2499

Add-Ons & Options

Hire a strong helper and trek with ease—your porter carries up to 25 kg in total: 20 kg for you and 5 kg of their own.

Finished your trek? Fly straight back to Kathmandu on a luxury helicopter—enjoy stunning aerial views while avoiding trekking crowds and the Lukla flight.

The most important gear for the EBC trek includes a warm down jacket, a sleeping bag rated to –20°C to –30°C, trekking poles, and microspikes for snowy trails. These essentials can be heavy, costly, and inconvenient to bring from home—but no worries. You can easily rent all of them from us and return them after the trek.

Have you heard of Mountain Lodges of Nepal—the luxury hotel group operating premium lodges in the Everest region? Stay in the most comfortable lodges available and enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by skilled chefs. This is your ticket to a truly refined Himalayan experience.

Still Confused? Consult an Expert

Equipment Lists

Nepal Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return: Necessary Gear and Equipment Checklist

Head
+
  • Trekking Hat/Cap
  • Headlamp/Flashlight (with extra batteries), good quality
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Woolen hat /Beanie (for cold weather)
  • Bandana/Buff (for dust and sun protection)
  • Sunblock (Sunscreen) (SPF 40 or higher)
  • Insect Repellent (for lower trekking areas)
Upper Body
+
  • Base Layer Shirt: Two (moisture-wicking, breathable fabric)
  • Trekking Jacket: A pair of lightweight (water-resistant/windproof)
  • Insulating Layer: A pair (fleece, down jacket, or sweater for warmth)
  • Rain Jacket/poncho (lightweight, waterproof)
  • Trekking Trousers/Pants: Two pairs (comfortable and durable)
  • Long-sleeve shirt: 1 pair (for sun or insect protection)
  • Underwear: Two pairs (moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric)
  • Compression Garments (for reducing muscle fatigue, optional)
  • Gore-Tex or a similar waterproof jacket
Lower Body
+
  • Trekking Pants: Two pairs (convertible into shorts if needed)
  • Thermal Leggings: one (for cold weather)
  • Shorts: Two (optional, for warmer weather)
  • Knee Guards/Support (for those who need extra knee protection)
  • Hands: Protect your hands with warm gloves
  • Light inner gloves (for lower-elevation trekking)
  • Insulated or down gloves (high-altitude trekking)
  • Waterproof gloves (wet season)
Foot Wear
+
  • Trekking Boots/Shoes (comfortable, waterproof, with good grip and ankle support)
  • Gaiters (to protect from mud, snow, or rocks entering boots)
  • Thick Socks: Two pairs (merino wool or synthetic, moisture-wicking)
  • Lightweight Socks: Two pairs (for warmer weather or layering)
  • Sandals/Flip-flops (for campsite/rest stops)
Miscellaneous
+
  • Sleeping bag
  • Drying towel
  • Trekking Poles
  • Cash (extra Nepali rupees for additional ex
  • penses)
  • Backpack + 60 L. (Rucksack) (with rain cover and hydration system)
  • Hydration System/Water Bottles/Camelback
  • Water Purification Tablets/Filter
  • Snacks (Energy Bars, Dried Fruits, Nuts
  • First Aid Kit (with basics like bandages and antiseptics, as per personal need)
  • Portable Power Bank (to charge devices)
  • Camera or Smartphone (to capture the views)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, etc.) Feminine hygiene products as needed
  • Wet wipes
  • Emergency Whistle
  • Dry bags
  • Clothing Layer
  • Hand sanitizer

Essential Information

Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Spring (March to May) and Autumn to Early Winter (September to December) are the most ideal seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return in Nepal. These periods offer stable weather conditions, mild temperatures, and minimal chances of rainfall. Visibility is usually excellent, ensuring a safer and more scenic trekking and flying experience.

Spring brings warmer temperatures and colorful landscapes. In the lower regions, forests bloom with vibrant rhododendrons and wildflowers, making the trek especially beautiful. The days are longer, allowing more comfortable trekking hours. Although occasional light rain is possible, it rarely affects the overall journey.

Autumn is the most popular season for the Everest region. It is famous for crystal-clear mountain views and outstanding visibility. You’ll enjoy uninterrupted panoramas of Himalayan giants such as Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Mount Everest. As this is peak season, the trails can be busy, so we highly recommend booking your Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return well in advance.

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return – Difficulty Level

The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is considered a physically demanding high-altitude adventure. The trek involves walking across rugged Himalayan terrain and reaching elevations above 5,500 meters. Rapid altitude gain and long trekking days make proper acclimatization essential.

Our itinerary is carefully designed with your safety as the top priority. We include two vital acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. During these days, your guide will lead short hikes to higher elevations following the “climb high, sleep low” principle, helping your body adapt and significantly reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

The helicopter return shortens the descent and reduces physical strain, making the journey more comfortable while still preserving the full Everest Base Camp trekking experience.

Who Can Join the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?

This adventure is ideal for travelers who want a classic Everest trekking experience combined with a more comfortable and time-efficient return journey. It is best suited for:

  • Experienced trekkers with previous high-altitude or multi-day trekking experience
  • Travelers seeking a deep cultural experience in the Sherpa heartland, including monasteries, traditions, and mountain lifestyle
  • Adventure lovers who want to experience the grandeur and serenity of the Himalayas and enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight back

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