Experience the Ultimate Mount Everest Adventure: Trek to Base Camp and Return by Helicopter
Kind Reader, are you looking for an adventure of a lifetime that marries the thrill of trekking to the highest mountain in the world with the convenience of a helicopter return? Look no further than the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return! This exciting trek takes you through picturesque villages, lush forests, and across glacial rivers, culminating in the stunning views from the base camp of Mount Everest. And to cap it all off, a helicopter ride will take you back to Kathmandu, giving you a bird’s eye view of the majestic Himalayas.
What is Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?
Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek with Helicopter Return is a brilliant way to trek to the base of Mount Everest with minimum effort. After a thrilling trek of 10 days to the Everest Base Camp, the Helicopter return offers a magnificent view of the Himalayas from an aerial view while adding the thrill of an adventurous helicopter ride. As it is one of the shortest treks to the Base of Mount Everest, this trip is ideal for those who want to experience this region but have a shorter time frame.
The Trekking Route
The trek to Everest Base Camp begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. After landing at Tenzing Hillary Airport (also known as the Lukla Airport), the trek starts towards Phakding passing along an easy and downhill trail. The trek continues further eastward towards Namche Bazaar which is a delightful mountain village which overlooks the Kongde Ri, Thamserku, and the Khumbu La. On the way to the EBC trekkers can experience the amazing view of the Himalayan ranges like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. Phortse, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep are other attractive destinations on the EBC trek route. The trek to EBC ends at the Everest Base Camp situated at an elevation of 17,600 ft. above sea level. On the return journey, the Helicopter ride will fly over the Himalayas from Kala Patthar and land in Kathmandu after an hour-long adventure.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for the helicopter return trek to Everest Base Camp is during the Autumn Season (September-November) or Spring Season (March-May). During these seasons, the weather conditions in the Everest Region tend to be stable, and the temperature is favorable.
Things to Keep in Mind
One must be physically fit to complete the EBC trek with Helicopter Return as it involves long walking hours and visiting places above 5000 meters. As the EBC trek with Helicopter Return is a blend of both a trek and a Helicopter ride, it is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by the trek experts properly to avoid altitude sickness. Additionally, trekkers should carry proper clothing and equipment like trekking shoes, warm jackets, sleeping bags, gloves, hats, and sunscreen.
Benefits of Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is an excellent trekking package for those who want to observe the natural beauty of the Khumbu region in the shortest time. The Helicopter ride adds an adventure to the trek and provides time to enjoy and capture the breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains from above, which otherwise would be challenging to do. Such a trip helps in boosting self-confidence and making trekkers feel rejuvenated, refreshed, and happy.
Cost of the Trek
The cost of the EBC trek with Helicopter Return trek heavily depends on factors like duration, number of people, and the level of comfort. The packages also vary depending upon the season in which the trek is conducted and the services included in the scheme. The EBC trek with Helicopter Return can be an expensive trip compared to a typical trek to Everest Base Camp. It costs around $3,000 to $5,000 per person, including all inclusive. However, the final price may vary depending on the travel agency and trek package.
What to Expect During Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?
An Everest Base Camp Trek is a dream for many hikers who want to challenge themselves and experience the beauty of the world’s highest mountain. For those who are short on time or don’t want to hike both ways, the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return offers the perfect alternative.
The Trekking Experience
The first half of the trek is similar to a regular Everest Base Camp Trek. You will start in Kathmandu, fly to Lukla, and hike through beautiful landscapes, lush forests, and quaint villages. The trek takes you through Sagarmatha National Park and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. You will pass through famous landmarks such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche and Gorak Shep. You will also be able to witness the daily life of the Sherpa people and learn their culture.
The Helicopter Return
The helicopter ride takes you from Gorak Shep to Lukla Airport. On the way back, you will get a bird’s eye view of the entire Khumbu Region. The helicopter will fly close to giant peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Mount Everest. You will also fly over the Khumbu Glacier, which is a rare opportunity to see the glacier from a unique perspective. You will also witness the infamous Hillary Suspension Bridge.
Before boarding the helicopter, you will have breakfast in Gorak Shep while enjoying one last dramatic view of Mount Everest.
Overall, the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is an exciting way to experience the beauty of the Khumbu Region without having to do the full trek.
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Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
The best time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is the pre-monsoon season (February to May) or post-monsoon season (late September to December). During these periods, the weather is stable, and the skies are clear, offering excellent visibility of the mountains throughout the trek. In the monsoon season, the trail becomes muddy and challenging, making it difficult for trekkers to walk on. During the winter season (January and February), the trail is covered with snow, which can increase the level of difficulty in the trek.
Pre-Monsoon Season
The Pre-Monsoon season (February to May) is one of the best times to do the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return. During this time, the weather is perfect, and the trail is at its best condition. The temperature is mild, and the skies are clear, allowing excellent views of the mountains throughout the trek.
Post-Monsoon Season
The post-monsoon season (late September to December) is another excellent period for the Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return. During this time, the weather is stable, and the skies are clear, offering excellent visibility of the mountains. The temperature is also mild during the day with cold nights. Trekkers can enjoy the trek without any fear of the trail being slippery or muddy due to monsoon rains.
What to Pack for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
Packing for the Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return is a crucial task that requires proper planning. As a trekker, you need to pack the right gear that will help you complete the trek comfortably. Here are some essential items that you must pack for the Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return:
Clothing
Carry comfortable clothing that is appropriate for treks. Pack warm clothes for the night as the temperature can drop significantly. Some of the clothes to pack include warm thermal wear, trekking pants, waterproof jacket, windcheater, trekking boots, woolen socks, and a cap.
Medication and First Aid Kit
Carry a first aid kit, essential medication, and insect repellent. Prevent blisters by carrying moleskin or blister plasters and take care of stomach issues by carrying anti-diarrhea medicine. Also, carry pain relief medicine, allergy medicine, and altitude sickness medicine.
Tea House Trek or Camping Trek
When it comes to trekking in Nepal, there are two types of Everest Base Camp Treks: Tea House Trek and Camping Trek. The Tea House Trek is one of the most popular options as it is a more affordable and less stressful way of experiencing the trek. In this option, trekkers stay in tea houses along the way, which are guest houses that offer warm accommodation and freshly cooked meals. Trekkers can choose from a variety of tea houses and enjoy the comforts of home.
Tea House Trek in Details
The Tea House Trek route takes around 12-14 days and usually follows the same path as the Camping Trek. Trekkers walk for around 5-6 hours per day and stop at tea houses at night. The trek starts from Lukla and moves through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep and finally reaching Everest Base Camp. On the return, you can take a helicopter to Kathmandu from Gorak Shep.
Tea House Trek in Pros and Cons
| No | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Less expensive | Not suitable for camping lovers |
| 2 | Good opportunity to socialize with people | Less privacy |
| 3 | Opportunity to eat local food | Possible unexpected charges for food |
Tea House Trek is a great option for those who are looking for authentic Nepalese hospitality and a budget-friendly option. It is a suitable choice for those who want to enjoy the trek without the hassle of carrying tents and sleeping bags, but prefer some amenities.
Camping Trek in Details
Camping Trek on the other hand is a more exclusive and customized way of doing the Everest Base Camp Trek. In this option, trekkers carry their own tents, sleeping bags, and all the necessary equipment with them. A cook accompanies the groups. Trekkers usually camp in beautiful natural sites, far away from the noise and bustle of the tea houses.
Camping Trek in Pros and Cons
| No | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | More customized way of trekking | More expensive |
| 2 | More independence and privacy | Requires camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, etc |
| 3 | More flexible itinerary | More physically demanding |
If you are an adventure lover and prefer solitude and a customized way of trekking, then the Camping Trek is the right option for you. You can have your personalized itinerary and can choose your camping places. However, it requires more equipment and budget.
Requirements for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
If you are ready to take on the Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return, there are a few requirements that you need to consider before embarking on this journey. One of the most important requirements is getting the right gear. Since this trek is demanding and will take you to high elevations, you need to have gear that is suitable for trekking in cold weather conditions. Some of the essential items that you need to pack for the trek include a down jacket, waterproof trekking boots, and thermal wear.
Trekking Gear
You need to pack the following trekking gear for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return:
| No | Trekking Gear |
|---|---|
| 1 | Trekking boots |
| 2 | Down Jacket |
| 3 | Thermal Wear |
| 4 | Woolen socks |
| 5 | Sun hat and scarf |
| 6 | Toiletries |
| 7 | Sunscreen |
| 8 | First Aid kit |
| 9 | Water bottles |
| 10 | Climbing harness |
Physical Fitness
You need to have a good level of physical fitness for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return. The trek includes long hours of walking, and you will be exposed to high altitudes, so it is recommended that you have prior trekking experience. You should also start exercising and building your endurance levels a few weeks before the trek to ensure that you are physically prepared for the journey.
What to Bring for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
When going on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return, it’s essential that you have the appropriate gear and equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Here are some of the must-haves for your trek:
Clothing and Footwear
Bring lightweight and comfortable clothing that is suitable for trekking in the mountains. Layers are important to keep you warm during cold and windy weather. Don’t forget to bring waterproof jackets and pants to protect you from the rain. Trekking shoes with strong grip and ankle support are necessary as the terrain can be unpredictable.
Trekking Gear
Basic trekking gear includes a backpack, sleeping bag, trekking pole, and headlamp. These will come in handy as you make your way through the trails. You can hire these from local shops in Kathmandu, so there’s no need to buy everything outright.
Personal Items
Aside from your travel documents and money, there are a few personal items that you need to have with you. These include toiletries, sunscreen, and lip balm, as well as medication for altitude sickness. You can also bring a camera to capture all the breathtaking views along the trek.
Best Time to Trek to Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return
The best time to go on an Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is during Nepal’s autumn and spring seasons. Here’s why:
Autumn Season (September to November)
The autumn season offers clear blue skies and stunning panoramic views with ideal trekking conditions. The weather is dry, and there is less chance of rainfall. During this time, the temperature is also mild and pleasant, making it easier for trekkers to traverse through the challenging terrain.
Spring Season (March to May)
The spring season is another popular time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return. During this time, the weather is ideal for trekking, with moderate temperatures and clear skies. The trail has gorgeous rhododendron blooms that cover the mountainsides in vibrant reds and pinks.
| No | Month | Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | January | -17 to -5 | 15 |
| 2 | February | -16 to -4 | 28 |
| 3 | March | -12 to 1 | 59 |
| 4 | April | -6 to 6 | 94 |
| 5 | May | -3 to 9 | 110 |
| 6 | June | -1 to 11 | 236 |
| 7 | July | 1 to 12 | 409 |
| 8 | August | 2 to 12 | 388 |
| 9 | September | -1 to 10 | 174 |
| 10 | October | -6 to 6 | 45 |
| 11 | November | -13 to -1 | 10 |
| 12 | December | -16 to -5 | 5 |
Note: Please keep in mind that the weather in the mountains is unpredictable, so it’s crucial to always be prepared for any weather conditions regardless of the season.
Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
Unlike the conventional Everest Base Camp trek, the helicopter return trek can be done almost throughout the year. However, it is still recommended that you trek during the best time to ensure the best experience possible. The best times for Everest Base Camp trek via helicopter are pre-monsoon (February-May) and post-monsoon (September-November) seasons. In these months, the skies are clear and the temperature is mild, making it the ideal environment for trekking. During the monsoon season, the trail is slippery, making it difficult to walk. Besides, the clouds can obstruct the majestic views of the mountains.
Pre-Monsoon Season
The pre-monsoon season (February-May) is the suitable time for Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return. At this time of the year, the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. In addition, you get to see the rhododendrons bloom in different colors, adding color to the trail. The trails are dry, and there are fewer tourists, meaning you will have the place to yourself. The temperature ranges from 8°C in the morning and afternoon to -7°C at night, as the elevation increases.
Post-Monsoon Season
The post-monsoon season (September-November) is the other suitable time for an Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return. During this period, the skies are clear, providing an excellent view of the mountains. The temperature is warm, making it possible to trek with comfort. The average temperature ranges from 12°C to -5°C at night. As it is peak season, there are many travelers, and you may not have as much privacy as during the pre-monsoon season. But the vista from the top makes it worth it.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions and concerns about the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return:
1. Is the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return a difficult trek?
Yes, the trek is difficult and requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. However, we have experienced guides who will make the journey safer and more enjoyable for you.
2. Can I choose to do the trek without the helicopter return?
Yes, you can choose to do the trek without the helicopter return option. It is not mandatory.
3. Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Yes, altitude sickness is a common concern on this trek. Our guides will help you properly acclimatize and we recommend bringing medication and consulting with your doctor beforehand.
4. How many days does the trek take?
The trek takes around 12-14 days, depending on the route and pace of the group.
5. Do I need to carry my own gear and food?
No, we provide porters who will carry your gear and we provide meals and snacks throughout the trek.
6. Can I charge my electronic devices during the trek?
Yes, there are charging facilities available at the lodges along the trekking route.
7. What is the best time of year to do the trek?
The best time is from March to May and October to November when the weather is clear and dry.
8. How much does the trek cost?
The cost of the trek varies depending on the itinerary and group size. Please get in touch with us for more information.
9. Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for this trek.
10. What if I become sick or injured during the trek?
Our guides are trained in first aid and emergency evacuation procedures. We have arrangements for emergency helicopter rescue if necessary.
11. Can I bring my own trekking gear?
Yes, you can bring your own gear, but we also provide rental options for those who need it.
12. What if the helicopter flight is cancelled due to bad weather?
In case of a cancelled flight, we will help make necessary arrangements for your return to Kathmandu via alternative transportation.
13. Can I take photos along the trekking route?
Yes, you can take as many photos as you like!
14. Are there any safety concerns on the trek?
While there is always some risk involved with outdoor activities, our guides are experienced and trained to ensure your safety.
15. Can I change the itinerary of the trek?
Yes, we can customize the itinerary to suit your needs, but any changes must be discussed with us beforehand.
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the Everest Base Camp trek, consider taking a helicopter return tour. Not only will you witness stunning panoramas of the Himalayas, but you’ll also get a bird’s eye view of the region.
Until We Meet Again, Kind Reader
Thank you for joining me on this virtual journey to the Everest Base Camp Trek with a breathtaking helicopter return. I hope this article has provided you with valuable insight and a glimpse of what you can expect from this once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the majestic landscapes to the friendly locals and the thrill of flying over the snowy peaks, this trek is truly an adventure of a lifetime. If you ever get the chance to do it, don’t hesitate, just go! Keep exploring, stay curious, and come back for more exciting travel stories. Until next time, Kind Reader, take care and happy travels!
