Everest Base Camp Heli Return [Luxury Package]

Brief Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu
• Day 2: Helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Lukla, Trek to Phakding 
• Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
• Day 4: Acclimatisation Day at Namche Bazaar
• Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazar to Tengboche
• Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
• Day 7: Acclimatisation Day at Dingboche
• Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
• Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and then trek to Everest Base Camp/Kalapatthar
• Day 10: Sunrise trek to Kalapatthar/Trek to Everest Base Camp. Helicopter from EBC/Gorakshep to Kathmandu 
• Day 11: Sightseeing at Kathmandu
• Day 12: Buffer day - for rest or try activities like Bungy Jumping/River Rafting
• Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu by night, get briefed on the trek the next day. Reach the hotel and have dinner. Detailed trek brief, equipment check and team bonding activities by Trek Lead. Stay the night in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Phakding

Altitude: 8,563 ft (2,610 m)

Trek Duration: 3-4 hours, 8 Km

Today early morning we will be transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for an early morning helicopter ride to Lukla (2,800m a gateway destination from where our trek begins. After an adventurous 40-minute helicopter ride above the breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. Lukla has one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating with a dramatic landing on a hillside surrounded by high mountain peaks. Upon arrival at Lukla, we meet our other crew members, and after some packing and arrangements, we start our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. Overnight at a lodge.

Day 3: Namche Bazaar

Altitude: 11,286 ft (3,440 m)

Trek Duration: 5-6 hours, 10 Km

You start the trek by walking through a beautiful pine forest. The trail takes us along the Dudh Koshi River through many suspension bridges, one of which is the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. First, we catch the wonderful prospect of the glimpse Mt Thamserku (6,618 m). Through the settlement of Benkar, Chumoa, and Monjo, we come to the check post and entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. We pass through the last village of Jorsale before reaching Namche Bazaar. The trail climbs through the forests and bridges until we reach the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. After a final steep ascent of about two hours, we get the first view of Mt. Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. Upon this juncture, we rest here to admire the view. We still need to hike about 1.5 hours to reach Namche Bazaar, a gateway to Mt. Everest and the main trading centre of this region. We stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 4: Namche Bazaar Acclimatisation

Today is the first of the two days set aside for "acclimatization". Health experts recommend we stay active and moving during the rest day too instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day's hike to the Everest viewpoint or relaxing and exploring Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazzar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery, and a colourful market. Overnight stay at a lodge.

Day 5: Tengboche

Altitude: 12,697 ft (3,870 m)

Trek Duration: 5 -6 hours, 10 Km

Upon breakfast in Namche, we set out towards Tengboche, enjoying a superb view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam and a close-up view of Thamserku. The trail today is more or less smooth with few ascents and descents. The view of the magnificent Himalayas keeps us company all through the journey. Along the way, we can spot wildlife Musk Deer, a herd of Himalayan Thar and multicoloured pheasants. The trail goes gradually down up to Kayangjuma. After having a relaxed lunch at Phunki Thenga, we gear up for a slightly tougher climb through the pine forests before we reach Tengboche. Tengboche is a great place for close-up views of Mt Ama Dablam and the popular monastery of the Everest region. Overnight stay at a lodge.

Day 6: Dingboche

Altitude: 14,468 ft (4,410m)

Trek Duration: 5-6 hours, 9 Km

With mountains at its backdrop, the monastery at Tengboche looks more spectacular in the morning. we can take pictures of the monastery and the scenery around us and as usual start the day's journey. to Pangboche village. We pass through several Chortens and Mani walls and small villages. The place where we stop for lunch allows a fantastic close-up view of Mt Ama Dablam. In the afternoon, we walk north to Pheriche or take the eastward trail beneath the towering north face of Mt Ama Dablam. From here onwards, the walk is fairly moderate as we enter the Imja Valley. The valley gradually unfolds as we approach the confluence of the Lobuche River. We descend into the river and begin the last and steepest climb of the day up to Dingboche. On arrival at Dingboche, overnight lodge

Day 7: Dingboche Acclimatisation

We spend our second day of acclimatization at Dingboche. A refreshing breakfast while admiring a looming Ama Dablam (6,856m) to the south is fantastic. To better appreciate Mt Ama Dablam, Mt Lhotse and numerous other peaks visible from Dingboche, we climb the ridge on the north behind the village to climb Nangkartshang Peak. This will be an ideal acclimatizing excursion. We can see three of the world's six highest peaks, Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu, and Mt Cho Oyu. To the west, loom the towering peaks of Cholatse (6440 m) and Taboche (6542 m). As we look northwest, we see an array of peaks rising at the head of the Khumbu Khola valley. The Lobuche West and Lobuche East peaks are most dominant along with Lhotse, which stands over 8500 m (8501m). Overnight lodge

Day 8: Lobuche

Altitude: 16,207 ft/ 4,940 m

Trek Duration: 4-5hours, 7 Km

After breakfast, we pass through the valley lunch place at Thukla. After trekking for an hour, we reach the memorial of Scott Fischer (American mountaineer) and Babu Chiri Sherpa (a Nepali mountain guide who summited Mount Everest ten times) who perished on an Everest climbing mission. As the trail drops to the Khumbu Glacier moraine, we find ourselves facing several great peaks - Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori and Mahalangur Himal. We are now in the vicinity of Everest, but the great mountain remains elusive. Mt Nuptse towers to the right as the trail crosses the Khumbu Glacier. As we pass along a murmuring stream leaving the Khumbu Glacier behind, we now begin to feel a little out of breath due to the high altitude. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 9: Gorak Shep / Everest Base Camp

Altitude: 16,962 ft (5,170 m) - 17,598 ft (5,364 m)

Trek Duration: 3+5 hours, 4+8 Km

The trail to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Ahead on the trail we see the crest of the north ridge of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. A small ascent would take us to Thangma Riju from where we perceive a 360-degree vista of snowy mountains. Climbing steeply up to the top through the torrent of Changri Glacier, we catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar, Mt. Pumori. As we reach Gorak Shep, we will find snow-capped mountains looming all around us, including the top of the world - Mt. Everest. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once-vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, upon reaching the Everest Base Camp we appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer's tents stand out in bright colours against the monotony of grey surroundings (especially in the Spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. Overnight at the lodge in Gorakshep.

OR, the sunset view from Kala Patthar is more admirable than the sunrise view, so it is recommended that we visit Kala Patthar today during sunset. As the setting sun's rays strike the snow-capped mountains, the resulting scenery is incredible, especially on Mt Everest. For those trekkers who wish to continue to Kala Patthar, our guides and sherpas coordinate the hike to Kala Patthar for an amazing sunset view today rather than tomorrow. Overnight in Gorak Shep at a local lodge.

Day 10: Kalapatthar Summit / Periche

Altitude: 18,192 ft / 5,545 m - 14,341ft/ 4,371 m

Trek Duration: 3+4 hours, 6+10 Km

Today is the climax of our trip. We start early in the morning to catch the dramatic views from Kala Patthar and witness the first light of day caress the peaks of the mountains, particularly, Mt. Everest. However, we need to prepare for an early morning departure, amid predawn darkness and cold temperature (-10 to -14 C).

Further, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself. During the ascent to Kala Patthar, we can pause to catch a breath at several outstanding viewpoints from where we can snap great pictures. After several hours of ascent, we reach Kala Patthar. From Kala Patthar, we scramble up to the top of a rocky outcrop marked by cairns and prayer flags. Mind-blowing Himalayan panorama unfolds before our eyes as they wander.

Those visitors who plan to visit Everest Base Camp today will have an early breakfast to start early as the Everest Base Camp hike takes longer (4-5 hrs) than the Kala Patthar hike. So the team can take a helicopter directly from EBC or from Gorakshep.

Return to Kathmandu overnight at a hotel.

Day 11: Kathmandu

Leisurely wake up and start exploring the city of Kathmandu. Visit the Durbar square, Bhaudhanath, Monkey Temple and Patan Durbar Square. Stay the night in Kathmandu.

Day 12: Kathmandu

Keep this as a buffer day. Try your hand at Bungee Jumping or go river rafting in the Zanskar river. Or, if you wish, take it as a rest day. Stay the night in Kathmandu.

Day 13: Departure

Depart from Kathmandu and travel back to your city. 

Trek Insurance

Trekking in the Himalayas comes with its own set of risks. While adventure is fun and can be extremely thrilling, nature can be unpredictable, and to help secure you during your trek, it is of utmost importance that you are covered with insurance.

We've gone a step ahead and made sure that you don't have to worry about scouting for the best insurance option out there. When you trek with us, your insurance comes as a part of your inclusions. To know more about the benefits covered and sum insured, click here. 

Risk and Liability: 

We will endeavour to make your program smooth and as pleasant as possible. However, the entire course of trekking depends on the ranges of the mighty mountains, physical health, and environmental conditions. Therefore, TrekNomads shall not be responsible for any changes in the itineraries due to unavoidable circumstances and natural disasters such as landslides, road blockage, flood, snowing, cancellation of flight and delay, or any type of sickness including altitude sickness.

What to Expect:

The Everest Base Camp trek is a challenging trek that requires prior Himalayan trekking experience. During the course, we will trek 4 to 10 hours per day on moderate to steep grades, at varied elevations. Some days will be rest days with optional hikes to properly acclimatize, while on other days you will continue your journey towards EBC. Your Trek Captain will set a suitable pace to minimize the risk of altitude issues. Porters and pack animals will transport your gear. A signed medical consent form from your doctor will be required for participation. You will also be required to sign an indemnity bond before heading on the trek.

FAQs:

Is this trek too dangerous?

Yes and no. Yes; because altitude can kill people so care must be taken to acclimatize properly. No; from the lack of so-called "objective" danger such as rock fall or crevasses normally associated with climbing. However, people have been seriously injured by yaks who inadvertently bump them off the trail and down a steep hillside. So always be on the uphill side when a yak passes by.

Does the trek require any kind of training?

Yes. This trek requires a good level of fitness. If you're not already following a fitness regime, you would need to follow the regime that is shared here with you. The training routine is spread over four months and you would be expected to work out at least 4 times a week. The regime is designed to help you climb smarter even in higher altitudes. The regime consists of a good combination of exercises that works on all parts of your body including - Upper Body, Core, Endurance, Lower Body, Shoulder strength and along with streamlining your breathing pattern. When followed religiously, you can be rest assured that you will be ready for the trek. Not only does this regime help you with the trek, but it will also help you inculcate a sense of fitness in your day-to-day life.

Is there a diet plan that we should follow to train for EBC?

Eating right amounts to 70% of the effort you put into getting fit. A good nutritious diet can help your body sustain the pressure that it will be going through during the trek and during your workouts. If you wish to know more about what to eat during the course of your fitness regime, you can get in touch with our trek captain.

Are your staff equipped/trained & insured?

Yes! Our guides and porters are fully trained, equipped and provided for. Our Trek Captain comes with the experience of doing the EBC trek priorly. Every member of a trekking group work as a team and take care of each other's responsibility.

Is there an age limit to do the Everest Base Camp Trek?

No, there is no age limit for Everest Base Camp trekking but, you need to be in good physical shape with a positive attitude. We also suggest you to prior to the trek though we suggest you to please see your doctor and obtain the necessary permission and advice, as well as medications for travelling in extreme altitudes prior to the trek.

Should I carry a medical kit along with me?

It is always better to consult your doctor. However, while we do carry a first aid kit, we suggest you carry simple medicines such as Ibuprofen, Codeine, Paracetamol, Strepsils, and anti-diarrhoea tablets.

What about toilet facilities? Will I be able to shower during the trek?

Most of the teahouses on the Everest trail have squat toilet facilities, but recently built lodges have western-style toilets as well. Nowadays, flush toilets are also being introduced with a number of increasing foreign mountaineers each year. It is highly recommended to carry your own toilet paper and other required toiletries.

Hot shower facilities are available till Gorakshep. The most common type is a bucket shower, usually, buckets with taps filled with hot water and placed in a shower room. Hot shower costs from USD 4 to 15 per use and the price increases along with the elevation. Attached bathrooms and toilets are not available unless you book a luxury lodge during the EBC trek.

What if I am not able to do the trek?

Our guides will make the required efforts to obtain the necessary transportation and reservations to get you home as quickly as possible if for any reason you need to depart early. However, you will not be entitled to any refund for the services (such as hotel, transport, flight, etc.) included in the package that you would not use later.

What about ATM on the trail?

ATM services are available only in Namche Bazaar and Lukla. However, the services might not work or run out of cash. Therefore, we suggest you carry a small amount of money to buy snacks, etc. during the trek.

What kind of weather can I expect during the trek? How cold does it get?

The temperatures in September can range from 28° to - 10°, depending on the altitude. Make sure you stay warm and dry at all times.

What type of adapter will I require in order to plug my electrical equipment?

Most of the tea houses/ lodges have electricity whereby you will be able to charge your iPod or camera batteries. Please note that lodges/tea houses will charge you some extra money for the services. The fee may vary from USD 1 to USD 3 per hour.

Are there any communication facilities available while we are on the mountain?

There are telephones (landlines) in most of the villages along the trek routes from where you can make international calls. Mobile Phone services are available throughout Nepal and even at the Everest Base Camp but the quality of the reception varies from location to location. Internet facilities can be found in only a few villages. However, these facilities can be expensive. Our guides will carry mobile phones which also can be used by you when/if necessary (these calls would be chargeable).

Fitness Criteria:

This trek requires a good level of fitness.

To register for this trek you are required to complete any of the below-mentioned fitness criteria.

5 km run in 35 minutes or Cycling 10 km in 40 mins or Swimming 1 km in 40 mins or Stair climbing 50 floors (10 floors up and down 5 times) in 30 mins.

Once you do register, please share the proof of fitness criteria with your Trek Captain anytime 30 days before departure.

If you're not already following a fitness regime, you would need to follow the regime that will be shared with you. The training routine is spread over four months and you would be expected to work out at least 4 times a week. The regime is designed to help you climb smarter even in higher altitudes. The regime consists of a good combination of exercises that works on all parts of your body including - Upper Body, Core, Endurance, Lower Body, Shoulder strength and improving your breathing pattern. When followed religiously, you can be assured that you will be ready for the trek. Not only does this regime help you with the trek, but it will also help you inculcate a sense of fitness in your day-to-day life. 

NOTE:

Trekkers who have already trekked the same route or have trekked at a similar altitude (highest altitude of this trek) or even higher, automatically get qualified. However, they would have to get both the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond singed as a mandate.

Trekkers who do not qualify for the fitness criteria or fail to share the fitness criteria proof have to get both the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond signed with the same mentioned in the documents respectively. 

Trekkers will not be allowed to join the group if the duly filled, signed and sealed copies of the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond are not shared. 

Trek Gradient:

This trek is graded challenging to extreme because you will be trekking for 13 consecutive days over rough terrain, you will be exposed to increasing altitudes each day, averaging 4,000 m and up to a maximum of 5,545 m.

Your Trek Captain will brief you on the next day's trek every evening so you have ample time to prep and be ready for the climb the next morning. You are expected to wake up at the time told by the Trek Captain. This is highly important because the earlier you start the trek, the faster you can reach the next village.

Being away from home comforts and family for an extended period of time is often a challenge for Nomads although access to communications on the trail is very good overall.

Do’s and Don’ts:

• We believe in leaving the mountains in a better condition, which is why we follow a no-litter policy on our treks. Each trekker will have to bring back the waste that is created during the trek.
• Trekking is best enjoyed when you’ve worn comfortable clothes. Try and avoid wearing Jeans, bright colours and heavy apparel as much as possible.
• A lighter backpack always helps you have a better trek, try and carry just as much as needed.
• Always be in sight of your trek lead, if you feel the need to stop for any reason at all, please keep the trek lead informed.
• If you do come across any reptiles, animals or even insects during the trek, please keep your calm and let it patiently pass by. Any kind of noise and panic will scare them as well.
• Do not venture out into the forest/waterfalls on your own as it may be dangerous.
• Trekking is a good adventure, having said that, it is our primary responsibility to take good care of ourselves and be compassionate towards fellow trekkers
• If, at any point, during the trek, you feel uneasy or unwell, please inform the trek lead immediately
• Tune in to the sounds of nature while on a trek and avoid carrying speakers or playing music during the course of the trek
• To help you enjoy the trek to the fullest, we avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol, and other intoxicants during the course of the trek