Everest Base Camp Trek Return by Helicopter - 9 Days

This spectacular Everest Base Camp Trek with a helicopter return offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and luxury in the heart of the Himalayas. Beginning with a scenic flight to Lukla, the journey follows the classic trekking trail through Sherpa villages, lush forests, and the vibrant mountain town of Namche Bazaar. As you gradually ascend through Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche, the landscape transforms into rugged alpine terrain with breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks.

Your trek reaches its highlights with a visit to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and an early-morning ascent of Kala Patthar (5,545m), the finest viewpoint for a close-up panorama of Mt. Everest. After this unforgettable Himalayan experience, you enjoy a thrilling helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, giving you a rare aerial perspective of the Khumbu region.

This itinerary is designed for trekkers seeking a complete Everest experience with added comfort and an exciting helicopter return.

  • Day 1 Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) and Trek to Phakding (2,652m)

    Day 1: Your Everest adventure begins with an exhilarating scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, one of the most spectacular air routes in the world. As the aircraft approaches Lukla, you are greeted with breathtaking aerial views of Himalayan peaks and terraced hillsides.

    Upon landing, you meet your trekking crew and begin your journey on foot. The trail descends gradually toward Cheplung village, passing through charming Sherpa settlements, mani walls, fluttering prayer flags, and lush forests. Along the way, you catch beautiful glimpses of Mt. Khumbila and Kusum Kanguru.

    After a pleasant 3–4 hours of walking, you reach Phakding, a peaceful village on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. Rest at your lodge and prepare for the next day’s climb.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Place: Lukla
    • Altitude: 2800
  • Day 2 Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

    After breakfast, you continue trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges— including the famous Hillary Bridge. The trail takes you through the picturesque villages of Jorsale and Monjo, where you officially enter Sagarmatha National Park.

    From here, the trail becomes steeper, winding through dense forests rich with Himalayan flora and fauna. As you climb higher, the air becomes crisper and the scenery more dramatic.

    After a challenging final ascent, you reach Namche Bazaar, the vibrant trading hub of the Khumbu region. The colorful town welcomes you with stunning views of Thamserku and Kongde Ri.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Place: Namchebazar
    • Altitude: 3440 m
  • Day 3 Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (Explore)

    Today is your first acclimatization day to help adjust to the increasing altitude. After breakfast, you can enjoy a short hike to Syangboche Airport or the Everest View Hotel, which offers your first panoramic view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.

    Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant market streets of Namche, visiting the Sherpa Cultural Museum, or relaxing in cozy cafés. Proper rest today ensures safe elevation gain ahead.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Place: Tengboche
    • Altitude: 3,860 m
  • Day 4 Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)

    Leaving Namche, the trail gradually ascends, offering clear views of Everest and Ama Dablam. You descend to the riverside and cross the Dudh Koshi River before beginning a long uphill climb through pine and rhododendron forests.

    After a rewarding hike, you arrive at Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest and most spiritual monastery in the Khumbu region. The monastery sits against a spectacular backdrop of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Nuptse.

    In the evening, you may have the chance to witness the monks' chanting ceremony.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Place: Dingboche
    • Altitude: 4,410 m
  • Day 5 Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)

    Your morning begins with a descent through rhododendron forests toward Debuche. Crossing the Imja River via a suspension bridge, you continue climbing gradually to Pangboche, enjoying close-up views of Ama Dablam.

    From Pangboche, the trail becomes more open with alpine landscapes as you move higher toward Dingboche, also known as the “Summer Valley.” The village is surrounded by stone walls that protect crops from harsh winds.

    Upon arrival, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Place: Lobuche
    • Altitude: 4,910 m
  • Day 6 Rest & Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (Explore)

    This is your second acclimatization day, allowing your body to adjust to high elevation. You can take an optional hike to Nangkartsang Peak, which offers spectacular views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak.

    Spend the rest of the day resting, hydrating, and exploring the beautiful village of Dingboche.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Place: Everest Base Camp
    • Altitude: 5,364 m
  • Day 7 Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m)

    After breakfast, you head toward Dhungla, passing through yak pastures and highland terrain. The trail becomes steeper as you climb toward Chupki Lhara, an emotional memorial site with monuments dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest.

    From here, the path follows the Khumbu Glacier, offering stunning views of Pumori, Nuptse, and Khumbutse, before finally reaching Lobuche, a small but important settlement for trekkers.

    • Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Kala Patthar
    • Altitude: 5,545 m
  • Day 8 Trek to Gorakshep (5,160m) – Everest Base Camp (5,364m) – Return to Gorakshep

    Today is one of the most awaited days of the journey. The trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep is a gradual climb along the rocky moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. After checking in and having lunch at Gorakshep, you begin your hike to Everest Base Camp.

    The trail is rugged, but the reward is immense: reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m), surrounded by the Khumbu Icefall, towering peaks, and a surreal glacial landscape. Spend time taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

    After enjoying this lifetime moment, hike back to Gorakshep for dinner and rest.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Gorekshep
    • Altitude: 5160m
  • Day 9 Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) – Helicopter Flight Back to Kathmandu

    Before sunrise, you begin your final challenge: the steep ascent to Kala Patthar, one of the best viewpoints for a close-up view of Mt. Everest. The climb is demanding due to altitude but incredibly rewarding.

    From the summit (5,545m), you witness a majestic 360° Himalayan panorama featuring Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding peaks glowing in the morning light.

    After absorbing the magnificent views, return to Gorakshep for breakfast. Soon after, you board a helicopter for a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Khumbu region, Sherpa villages, and terraced landscapes.

    Once in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. A farewell dinner is organized to celebrate your successful Everest journey.

    • Meals: Breakfast + Farewell Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Kathmandu
    • Altitude: 1400m