The Everest Trek with Helicopter Return combines high-altitude trekking with a quicker and more comfortable return, giving you the best of both worlds. This 11-day adventure follows the iconic Everest Base Camp trail before swapping days of descent for a scenic helicopter ride back to Kathmandu. It’s an ideal option for those short on time or wanting to avoid the strain of a lengthy downhill walk.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
You’ll be met at the airport and taken to your hotel in Thamel. There will be time to meet your guide, sort gear, and ask any questions about the trek.
Day 02: Kathmandu to Lukla, trek to Phakding
Take a short scenic flight to Lukla (from either Kathmandu or Ramechhap depending on weather). After meeting the porters and grabbing a hot drink, start walking towards Phakding along a gentle route.
Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing suspension bridges and pine forest. After lunch, there’s a tough climb to reach Namche Bazaar, the main Sherpa town.
Day 04: Acclimatisation Day – Hike to Everest View Hotel
Spend the day adjusting to the altitude with a hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m). Take in your first views of Everest and enjoy a relaxed afternoon in Namche.
Day 05: Namche to Tengboche
Begin with a gradual downhill walk before climbing up to Tengboche. In the evening, you’ll visit Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu.
Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche
Cross a river and pass small villages with panoramic views. The final section includes a brief stretch through a landslide area before reaching Dingboche.
Day 07: Acclimatisation Day
Take a short acclimatisation hike up Nagarjun Hill for more altitude training, then return to Dingboche for lunch and a relaxed afternoon.
Day 08: Dingboche to Lobuche
Follow a gentle trail to Thukla before a steeper climb to the memorials for lost climbers. Continue across the moraine to reach Lobuche.
Day 09: Lobuche to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp
Walk to Gorakshep for lunch, then continue to Everest Base Camp. After spending time exploring and taking photos, return to Gorakshep for the night.
Day 10: Kala Patthar Hike and Helicopter to Kathmandu
Start early to summit Kala Patthar (5,550m) for the best views of Everest. Return to Gorakshep and fly back to Kathmandu by shared helicopter, soaking in aerial views of the mountains.
Day 11: Departure Day
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, or continue your travels if staying longer in Nepal.
This trip starts and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital and the main entry point for most Himalayan adventures. You’ll stay in the lively area of Thamel, well known for its shops, restaurants, and trekking gear stores.
The trek itself follows the classic route through the Everest region, starting in Lukla and passing through iconic locations like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche before reaching Everest Base Camp. The helicopter return offers an incredible way to see the route from above without the need to retrace your steps.
Your first and last nights will be in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu, ideally located for walking access to shops and cafes. Rooms are on a shared basis with en-suite facilities and breakfast included.
On the trek, accommodation is in traditional teahouses, which are simple mountain lodges offering a warm bed, local meals, and a social atmosphere. Facilities vary, with shared toilets and cold water in most places. The teahouses are basic but full of character and a vital part of the Nepal trekking experience.
A good level of fitness is important as the trek includes long walking days and high altitude, though the helicopter return reduces overall fatigue. No technical climbing is involved, but previous trekking experience is recommended.
You’ll also need to be prepared for cold weather, early starts, and basic conditions. Acclimatisation days are built in, but altitude can still be a challenge, so listening to your guide and staying well hydrated is essential.
This centre is run by a team of experienced guides who specialise in trekking and adventure tours across Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. With hand-picked guides from mountain communities and extensive experience in the Everest region, they focus on both safety and memorable experiences.
They’ve worked with thousands of people over the years and continue to give back to the community through local projects and employment. With more than 2500 happy customers and glowing online reviews, their trips offer a friendly, well-organised, and personal approach to adventure.
About the centre
Kathmandu
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