Everest Base Camp Trek and Fly Back by Heli

On the second day of the Everest View Trek, you will start by taking a thrilling 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The flight itself is an adventure, as you soar over picturesque landscapes and get a glimpse of the majestic Himalayas. Upon landing in Lukla, you will begin your trek towards Phakding. The trail initially descends through rhododendron and pine forests, following the Dudh Koshi River. The trek to Phakding usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 9 kilometers. Phakding is situated at an altitude of 2,651 meters and offers a comfortable resting place for trekkers. Here, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning mountain views, preparing yourself for the days ahead.

Overnight in Hotel [B]

Flight: 40 min

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

On the third day of the Everest View Trek, you will continue your trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, a vibrant and bustling town located at an altitude of approximately 3,440 meters. This day involves a moderate but rewarding hike through the beautiful landscapes of the Khumbu region. The trail from Phakding to Namche Bazaar follows the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges along the way. As you trek, you will be surrounded by lush green forests, with occasional glimpses of the towering peaks in the distance. The trail gradually ascends, and you may experience some uphill sections that challenge your stamina. However, the effort is well worth it as you enter the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity and stunning mountain vistas. After several hours of trekking, you will reach Namche Bazaar, the commercial and cultural hub of the Everest region. Namche Bazaar is a vibrant town filled with shops, cafes, lodges, and trekking gear stores. It is an ideal place to acclimatize, as you will spend two nights here to adjust to the altitude.

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

On the fourth day of the Everest View Trek, you will take a well-deserved acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Acclimatization is crucial to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. You can explore the Namche bazaar as the town offers various attractions and activities to make your acclimatization day enjoyable and fulfilling.

You can start by visiting the Sherpa Museum, which provides insights into the local Sherpa culture, their mountaineering history, and the flora and fauna of the Everest region. It's a great opportunity to deepen your understanding of the region and its people. You may also choose to hike to the nearby villages of Khumjung or Khunde. These villages provide a glimpse into the traditional Sherpa way of life and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In Khumjung, you can visit the famous Khumjung School, established by Sir Edmund Hillary, which supports the education of Sherpa children. Another option is to hike up to the Everest View Hotel, which is renowned for its panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks. It's a perfect spot to capture breathtaking photos and soak in the majestic scenery.

Throughout the day, make sure to hydrate well and take it easy to allow your body to acclimatize properly. It's also a good opportunity to rest and relax before continuing the trek.

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

On the fifth day of the Everest View Trek, you will trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche. This day involves a scenic hike through beautiful landscapes, offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and an opportunity to visit the renowned Tengboche Monastery. Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail initially descends towards the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross suspension bridges and ascend gradually, enjoying the panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks. The trail takes you through rhododendron forests, small Sherpa villages, and open meadows, creating a diverse and captivating trekking experience.

After several hours of trekking, you will reach Tengboche, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,867 meters. Tengboche is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, one of the most significant monasteries in the Khumbu region. The Tengboche Monastery holds great spiritual and cultural importance for the Sherpa community. It provides a serene setting, surrounded by majestic mountains. From Tengboche, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other prominent peaks. The panoramic vistas create a magnificent backdrop for photography and a sense of awe-inspiring beauty. At the end of the day, you will find comfortable accommodation in Tengboche, allowing you to rest and reflect on the day's trekking experiences.

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

On the sixth day of the Everest View Trek, you will leave Tengboche and make your way to Dingboche. This day involves a scenic trek through the picturesque landscapes of the Everest region, with gradual ascents and stunning mountain views. Leaving Tengboche, the trail descends through lush forests and crosses the Imja Khola (river). The trail to Dingboche offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other majestic Himalayan peaks. The landscape transitions from forests to alpine meadows, adding to the beauty of the journey. Dingboche, located at an altitude of around 4,410 meters, is a charming Sherpa village nestled in the Khumbu Valley. Upon reaching Dingboche, you can enjoy the breathtaking mountain vistas, relax at one of the tea houses or lodges, and explore the village. Dingboche is known for its terraced fields, where locals grow barley, potatoes, and buckwheat.

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Dingboche, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Everest region, serves as a vital resting point for trekkers and climbers en route to iconic peaks like Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, and Imja Tse. This charming village captivates with its natural beauty, featuring terraced fields shielded by sturdy stone walls, safeguarding essential crops like barley, buckwheat, and potatoes from the harsh mountain elements and wandering livestock.

During our journey, we dedicated a day to acclimatization in Dingboche, a crucial step in adapting to the high altitudes. This rest day allowed us to explore the surrounding area through invigorating day hikes to either Nagarjun Hill or Chhukung Valley. These excursions rewarded us with breathtaking panoramic vistas of prominent peaks like Makalu, Lhotse, Chalotse, Taboche, and the iconic Ama Dablam, making our Everest adventure even more awe-inspiring and memorable.

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

Our day's journey commences with a gradual ascent towards Duglha, located at the terminal moraine of the majestic Khumbu Glacier. As we press onward, the path becomes steeper, leading us to Chupki Lhara. Here, a poignant collection of stones adorned with prayer flags serves as memorials to legendary figures, including Scott Fischer, the American mountaineer, and Babu Chiri Sherpa, the revered Nepali mountain guide, both of whom lost their lives during ambitious Everest expeditions.

Continuing our trek, we traverse the undulating terrain of the Khumbu Glacier moraine, which unveils a breathtaking panorama featuring Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori, and the towering Mahalangur Himal. As we advance, the trail gradually eases, guiding us through the valley until we reach our destination, Lobuche. This leg of the journey is not only physically challenging but also emotionally moving, as we pay our respects to those who dared to conquer the world's highest peaks.

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

On the ninth day of the Everest View Trek, you will leave Lobuche and make your way to Gorak Shep. This day is one of the most exciting and challenging days of the trek as you journey to the famous Everest Base Camp (EBC). Leaving Lobuche, the trail gradually ascends as you make your way through rocky terrain and glacial moraines. The trek to Gorak Shep offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Pumori, Nuptse, and Everest.

Upon reaching Gorak Shep, which sits at an altitude of approximately 5,164 meters, you will have a short break before continuing your journey to Everest Base Camp. The trail from Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp is a memorable adventure, passing through the Khumbu Glacier and its fascinating ice formations. As you approach Everest Base Camp, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and excitement. The base camp itself is a temporary settlement used by climbers during their Everest expeditions. Standing there, surrounded by the towering mountains, you can take in the energy and atmosphere of this legendary place. From Everest Base Camp, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Khumbu Icefall and the spectacular Everest massif. You can also witness the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, a symbol of hope and good fortune. After spending some time at Everest Base Camp, you will trek back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay. 

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

On the tenth day of the Everest View Trek, you will embark on an exhilarating journey from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, and then back to Gorak Shep, followed by a helicopter flight to Lukla. This day offers breathtaking views and a unique experience as you conclude your trek in the Everest region. Leaving Gorak Shep, the trail ascends towards Kala Patthar, which is renowned for offering one of the best panoramic views of Everest, as well as other iconic peaks like Lhotse and Nuptse. The trek to Kala Patthar involves a steep climb, but the reward is well worth the effort. Reaching the summit of Kala Patthar, at an elevation of around 5,550 meters, you will be greeted with awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayas. The sunrise view from Kala Patthar is particularly magical and offers a memorable experience. After enjoying the breathtaking scenery from Kala Patthar, you will descend back to Gorak Shep for a brief rest. From Gorak Shep, you will then take a helicopter flight to Lukla, providing a unique perspective of the landscapes you trekked through. The helicopter flight offers a thrilling experience and saves time compared to trekking back on foot.

Overnight in Simple Lodge [B]

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

On your eleventh day, you'll bid farewell to the Himalayas as you take a scenic flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your Everest Base Camp trek. As the plane soars above the mountains, you'll have one last opportunity to take in the awe-inspiring aerial views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest. After the flight upon landing in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind and rest after your adventurous trek. Take some time to relax, reminisce about your experiences, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu. In the evening, you can explore the bustling streets of Thamel, visit local markets, and indulge in delicious Nepali cuisine. It's a perfect opportunity to celebrate the successful completion of your Everest Base Camp trek and to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

Overnight in Hotel [B]

Flight: 40 Min

On the last day, it's time for your final departure from Kathmandu. The last day morning will be free and near the time of your flight. You will be at the airport within the time to board your flight for the onward trip. 

  Ø  The best time for the EBC trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for clear skies and favorable weather. These seasons offer the best visibility and trekking conditions.

  Ø  The trek to Everest Base Camp is considered challenging due to the high altitudes and rugged terrain. You should be in good physical condition and have some trekking experience. The helicopter return helps reduce the strain of retracing the entire trek.

  Ø  While it's not mandatory to have a guide, it's highly recommended. Guides are familiar with the trails, can assist in emergencies, and offer valuable insights about the region.

  Ø  Yes, comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation is highly recommended.

  Ø  The helicopter rides in the Everest region are generally safe, with experienced pilots. Weather conditions can affect flight schedules, so flexibility is crucial.

  Ø  You will need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. Your trekking agency can arrange these for you.

  Ø  Packing essentials include warm clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, a down jacket, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, and a well-stocked first aid kit. A detailed packing list is usually provided by trekking agencies.

  Ø  The helicopter return is usually arranged for the last day of the trek. It picks you up from Lukla or another nearby location and takes you back to Kathmandu. It offers stunning aerial views of the region.

  Ø  Yes, altitude sickness is a concern due to the high altitudes reached during the trek. Acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to help mitigate this risk.

  Ø  The cost can vary depending on several factors, including the trekking agency, the level of service, and the time of year. On average, budget for around $2,500 to $4,000 or more for this trek.

  Ø  Yes, you can explore other areas such as Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass, or Renjo La Pass, but these extensions will require additional time.

  Ø  Highlights include visiting the vibrant Sherpa villages, Tengboche Monastery, and reaching Everest Base Camp, as well as the thrilling helicopter ride back with breathtaking views.

  Ø  Yes, many trekking agencies offer customizable itineraries to suit your preferences and fitness level.

  Ø  You can book the trek in advance through a reputable trekking agency, which is recommended to ensure a smooth experience. However, some people do arrange it in Nepal, but it's less predictable.