The Everest Base Camp trek with a helicopter return trip is an exhilarating adventure that allows you to experience the beauty of the Himalayas and reach the iconic Everest Base Camp within a shorter time frame. Here's a description of the 9-day trek starting from Kathmandu:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative who will assist you with the transfer to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub in the city.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800 meters), trek to Phakding (2,652 meters)
In the morning, you will take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town in the Everest region. From Lukla, the trek begins as you descend towards the Dudh Koshi River and continue along the trail, passing through picturesque Sherpa villages. You will reach Phakding, where you'll spend the night.
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters)
The trek continues along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. You will enter the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and ascend steeply to Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town and the gateway to Everest. Here, you'll spend the night and acclimatize to the increasing altitude.
Day 4: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar
To aid acclimatization, you'll spend an extra day in Namche Bazaar. You can explore the town, visit the local markets, hike to the Everest View Hotel for stunning panoramas of Everest and its neighboring peaks, or take a side trip to Khumjung village to see the famous Yeti Skull at the monastery.
Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870 meters)
The trek resumes with a gradual ascent towards Tengboche. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan giants. In Tengboche, you can visit the Tengboche Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region, and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.
Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 meters)
As you leave Tengboche, the trail descends through lush rhododendron forests before crossing a suspension bridge over the Imja Khola. You'll climb up to Dingboche, a beautiful village located in a wide valley. Enjoy the panoramic vistas and spend the night here.
Day 7: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 meters)
The trail leads you to Dughla, where you'll find a memorial dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. From there, the path ascends alongside the Khumbu Glacier moraine, offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks. You'll reach Lobuche, a small settlement nestled in the shadow of the Khumbu Glacier.
Day 8: Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) and helicopter return to Kathmandu
The most anticipated day of the trek has arrived. From Lobuche, you'll trek to Gorak Shep and continue further to Everest Base Camp. The trail takes you across the vast Khumbu Glacier, offering breathtaking views of icefalls and the majestic Khumbu Icefall. After spending some time at Everest Base Camp and capturing the moment, you'll take a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu, enjoying a bird's-eye view of the magnificent Himalayan landscape.
Day 9: Departure from Kathmandu
On the final day, you'll have some free time in Kathmandu for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your departure. A representative will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey, concluding your unforgettable Everest Base Camp trek.
Comments