Everest Base Camp Trek with Return by Heli

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Thamel or a similar area. Depending on your arrival time, you can rest after your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, known for its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. In the evening, there will be a pre-trek briefing where you'll meet your trekking guide, discuss the itinerary, and make final preparations for the adventure ahead.

On Day 2 of your Everest Base Camp trek with a return by helicopter, you'll spend the afternoon driving from Kathmandu to Manthali. After a relaxed breakfast and completing any last-minute preparations in Kathmandu, you'll begin your journey to Manthali around midday. The drive offers a scenic escape from the city, taking you through picturesque landscapes including terraced fields, winding rivers, and charming rural villages. As you traverse the winding roads of the Ramechhap District, you’ll enjoy views of the lush green hills and tranquil countryside. The journey typically lasts several hours, and you’ll arrive in Manthali by late afternoon. Once you reach Manthali, you’ll check into your accommodation and rest, gearing up for the next stage of your adventure which will include your flight to the Everest region.

Start your day early with a wake-up call around 5:00 AM, followed by a light breakfast at your hotel in Manthali. By 6:00 AM, you will be transferred to Manthali Airport, where you’ll check in for your exciting early morning flight to Lukla. Board the flight around 8:00 AM, which offers spectacular views of the Himalayas during the 30-40 minute journey. Upon landing in Lukla, usually around 8:40 AM, you’ll be met by your trekking team. After gathering your gear and completing any necessary paperwork, you'll begin your trek to Phakding. The trek is a relatively easy walk of about 3-4 hours, following a picturesque trail along the Dudh Koshi River and through charming Sherpa villages. Arrive in Phakding by early afternoon, where you will check into your lodge, relax, and enjoy your first meal of traditional Nepalese cuisine.

Continuing along the Dudh Koshi River, you'll cross several suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. The trail ascends gradually through pine forests, offering glimpses of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru mountains. After passing through Monjo and the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, you'll ascend steeply to Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is the bustling hub of the Khumbu region, where you'll find shops, bakeries, and breathtaking views of Everest and other surrounding peaks. You'll spend two nights here for acclimatization.

Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail winds along the hillside, offering breathtaking views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. As you traverse through small settlements such as Kyangjuma, you'll be treated to peaceful mountain vistas and a glimpse into local Sherpa life. The path then descends to a village where prayer wheels are energized by the rushing water. After crossing a suspension bridge, you’ll climb back to Kyangjuma, where you'll spend the night in a serene and picturesque setting.

Today's trek takes you through rhododendron and juniper forests, with occasional views of Taboche and Cholatse peaks. You'll pass through villages and yak pastures, where yaks graze peacefully against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Phorste village offers a glimpse into traditional Sherpa lifestyle and hospitality, providing a serene atmosphere to rest and rejuvenate before continuing your journey.

Continuing your journey, you'll trek towards Pangboche, home to the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region, Pangboche Monastery. The trail ascends gradually with breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and other surrounding peaks. Pangboche is a picturesque village surrounded by fields of barley and potatoes, offering a serene atmosphere to explore the monastery and interact with local Sherpa residents.

The trail from Pangboche to Dingboche ascends gradually through alpine landscapes dotted with mani walls and prayer flags. Dingboche is a summer grazing settlement nestled beneath the towering peaks of Ama Dablam and Lhotse. Here, you'll settle into your lodge and enjoy views of the Imja Valley and surrounding mountains, acclimatizing to the altitude before continuing your trek towards Everest Base Camp.

Today is set aside for acclimatization in Dingboche to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You can take a short hike to Nagarjun Hill or explore Dingboche village, interacting with local Sherpa people and learning about their traditional lifestyle and culture. Alternatively, you can relax at your lodge, soaking in the serene mountain views and preparing for the challenging trek ahead.

Leaving Dingboche, the trail ascends along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, offering panoramic views of Tawache and Cholatse peaks. The trail passes through Duglha, where you'll stop for lunch before continuing towards Lobuche. Lobuche is a small settlement surrounded by rugged terrain and stunning vistas of Pumori, Lingtren, and Khumbutse peaks. Here, you'll spend the night in preparation for your journey to Everest Base Camp.

Today is a challenging yet rewarding day as you trek to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. The trail ascends through rocky moraines and glacial debris, offering close-up views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. After dropping off your belongings at the lodge in Gorak Shep, you'll continue towards Everest Base Camp, traversing the Khumbu Glacier. Upon reaching Base Camp, you'll celebrate your achievement and take photos with the iconic Khumbu Icefall in the background before trekking back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

After breakfast in Pheriche, prepare for a scenic helicopter flight back to Lukla. This flight will offer stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, including Everest, and provide a quick and comfortable alternative to the trek down. Once you arrive in Lukla, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the village, rest, and perhaps enjoy a celebratory meal at one of the local teahouses.

Spend the night in Lukla, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest. Lukla offers a variety of accommodation options, and this evening is a great chance to unwind, review your trek experience, and perhaps share stories with fellow trekkers.

Today begins with an early morning flight from Lukla to Manthali. The flight will take you to the lesser-known Ramechhap Airport, which serves as an alternative route to Kathmandu. Upon landing in Manthali, you will be met by a vehicle for the drive back to Kathmandu. The drive is approximately 4 to 5 hours and offers a chance to witness the scenic countryside of Nepal.

Arrive in Kathmandu in the late afternoon or early evening. Check into your hotel and take the evening to relax and freshen up. If time allows, you might explore Thamel, the lively tourist district of Kathmandu, for a bit of shopping or a last dinner in Nepal.

Today marks the end of your journey in Nepal. Depending on your flight schedule, you'll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey home. Before departing, take a moment to bid farewell to your guide and new friends, cherishing the memories of your Everest Base Camp trek and the majestic Himalayan landscapes you've explored. Your adventure in Nepal will leave a lasting impression, inspiring future travels and lifelong memories of this extraordinary trekking experience.