Our Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return (12 Days) with Igloo Himalaya Treks went beyond every expectation we had. Walking all the way up through Namche and Dingboche gave us proper acclimatization, and standing at Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) was pure magic. Taking the helicopter shuttle from Gorak Shep to Lukla was the best decision ever — saving 3 painful downhill days and giving us unreal aerial views of Everest!
Everest Region • Helicopter Return Expedition
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Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return (12 Days)
Trek through the Khumbu to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, then return from Gorak Shep to Lukla by helicopter. This twelve-day journey follows the classic approach through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and Dingboche, with acclimatisation days in Namche and Dingboche before the higher stages.
DURATION
12 Days
12 days, including 9 walking days with two acclimatisation hikes
DIFFICULTY
Moderate to Challenging
Moderate to challenging; sustained ascents, uneven trails and walking above 5,000 m
MAX ALTITUDE
5,545 m
Kala Patthar: approximately 5,545 m; highest overnight: Gorak Shep, 5,164 m
DESTINATION
Nepal
Nepal (Everest / Khumbu, Sagarmatha National Park)
ACTIVITY
Heli Service & Trekking
Heli service and trekking
ACCOMMODATION
Lodge & 3-Star Hotel
2 nights in a 3-star Kathmandu hotel; 9 lodge nights with selected attached bathrooms
TRANSPORT
Flights & Helicopter
Lukla flights, Gorak Shep–Lukla helicopter and airport transfers; confirm Manthali road arrangements
MEALS
Trekking Meals Included
Trekking meals; 3 daily cups of tea or coffee; seasonal fruit and chocolate after dinner when available
BEST SEASON
Spring & Autumn
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November)
TREK STARTS
Lukla (2,860 m)
Lukla (2,860 m flight arrival)
TREK ENDS
Gorak Shep / Lukla
Gorak Shep on foot; helicopter to Lukla
REGION
Everest / Khumbu
Everest / Khumbu (Sagarmatha National Park)
START POINT
Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport)
END POINT
Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport)
EBC Helicopter Return Trek Overview
Our twelve-day Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return follows the Khumbu trail to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m and the Kala Patthar viewpoint. You walk through Namche, Tengboche and Dingboche before reaching Gorak Shep. After the viewpoint hike, a helicopter takes you to Lukla, replacing the return walk through the villages and river valley.
After flying to Lukla, you follow the Dudh Koshi valley through Phakding, crossing suspension bridges before climbing to Namche Bazaar. Beyond Namche, the trail follows the hillside, descends to the river and climbs again to Tengboche. Its Buddhist monastery and views of Ama Dablam make this a memorable stop. Along the route, you pass Sherpa villages where monasteries, prayer wheels and mani walls reflect the community’s Buddhist traditions.
As you gain altitude, forested paths give way to open slopes and increasingly rocky ground. Continue through Dingboche and Lobuche to Gorak Shep, your overnight base for visiting Everest Base Camp. The next morning includes Kala Patthar before a helicopter shuttle to Lukla. Spend the night there before the onward flight and journey to Kathmandu.
We include acclimatisation days in Namche and Dingboche, with shorter hikes and another night at each elevation. The helicopter reduces return walking, while the outward journey still requires consecutive walking days, steep climbs and sustained effort at altitude. Technical climbing skills are not normally required. Prepare for the walking and discuss your experience, health concerns and flight flexibility before departure.
You stay in mountain lodges during the trek and a three-star hotel in Kathmandu. The twelve-day programme includes two Kathmandu nights and nine lodge nights along the route.
EBC Helicopter Return Trek Highlights
Why Book the EBC Helicopter Return Trek with Igloo Himalaya Treks?
We help you prepare for the walking route and planned helicopter shuttle. The following arrangements support your journey through Khumbu.
Trek Briefing and Gear Check
Before leaving Kathmandu, we explain the programme, check your essential equipment and help with last-minute preparations. You can ask questions about the walking days, accommodation and what to carry.
Guide and Porter Support
Your package includes an experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porter support. Your guide leads the route and explains local landmarks, while porters carry the agreed main luggage allowance throughout the trek.
Equipment Planning for Your Trek
Prepare your own sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag unless your quotation confirms loan equipment. Discuss suitable warmth, rental availability and flight baggage limits with us before leaving for Lukla.
Communication When Plans Change
Weather can affect Lukla flights and the helicopter return. Our team discusses available options if plans change, including revised travel arrangements and any additional accommodation, transport or other costs outside your quotation.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Airport Arrival & Hotel Transfer — Kathmandu (1,400 m) — Trip Briefing & Equipment Check
Welcome to Nepal. Our representative meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and accompanies you to your hotel. After you settle in, we go through the trekking programme, check your essential equipment and discuss any questions you have.
Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the nearby streets of Thamel or rest after your flight. We also help with any final preparations before you leave for the Everest region.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
Mountain Flight & River Walk — Phakding (2,610 m) — 3–4 hrs (8 km)
Your mountain journey begins with a flight to Lukla at 2,860 m. Depending on airline operations and the season, the flight may depart from Kathmandu or Manthali Airport in Ramechhap.
After landing, you meet your trekking team and begin walking towards Phakding. The trail passes village homes, prayer wheels and forested slopes, with downhill stretches and shorter climbs along the way. Sections follow the Dudh Koshi River, introducing you to the valley you will explore over the coming days. We spend the night in Phakding.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Sagarmatha National Park & Hillary Bridge — Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) — 6–7 hrs (10–11 km)
We follow the Dudh Koshi through villages and pine forests, passing Benkar and Monjo before entering Sagarmatha National Park. Your guide handles the permit checks along the route.
Suspension bridges connect the valley trails, followed by a sustained uphill walk towards Namche. This final climb is the most demanding part of the day, so we allow time for breaks. Namche’s shops, lodges and houses spread across the hillside, making it an important trading town and a useful place to spend the next two nights.
Day 4: Acclimatisation Day in Namche Bazaar
Hike to Hotel Everest View — Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) [High Point: 3,880 m] — 3–4 hrs (5–6 km)
We stay another night in Namche and take a shorter hike above the town. A usual option is the trail towards Hotel Everest View, where clear weather offers views of Everest and nearby peaks.
Your guide chooses the walk according to conditions and how the group is feeling. Afterwards, we return to Namche for the night. The afternoon gives you time to rest, visit the shops or stop at a café before continuing towards Tengboche tomorrow.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Valley Traverses & Monastic Highlands — Tengboche (3,860 m) — 5–6 hrs (10 km)
Leaving Namche, we follow the hillside trail before descending towards Phunki Tenga. Mountain views accompany sections of the walk, while the river marks the low point before the climb to Tengboche.
The uphill trail passes through pine and rhododendron forest. Once we reach the village, you can settle into the teahouse and explore the surroundings. Tengboche’s Buddhist monastery stands against the mountain backdrop of Ama Dablam. If it is open to visitors, your guide explains the visiting customs before you enter.
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
Pangboche & Imja Valley — Dingboche (4,410 m) — 6–7 hrs (11 km)
We descend through forest towards Debuche, cross the Imja Khola and continue through Pangboche. As the route gains height, the trees become fewer and the valley opens into slopes with low vegetation and stone buildings.
The trail passes Somare before reaching Dingboche in the Imja Valley. Today brings a noticeable gain in sleeping altitude, so we keep a steady pace throughout the walk. After checking into your teahouse, the remaining afternoon is available for rest before tomorrow’s acclimatisation hike.
Day 7: Acclimatisation Day in Dingboche
Ridge Hike towards Nangkartshang — Dingboche (4,410 m) — 3–4 hrs (4–5 km)
Our second acclimatisation day includes a hike above Dingboche followed by another night in the village. The usual direction is towards the Nangkartshang viewpoint, with the turnaround point determined by conditions and the group’s progress.
The hillside gives you a broader view of Dingboche and the surrounding valley. We then return to the teahouse, leaving the afternoon for rest and preparation. Tomorrow, the route continues towards Lobuche, where the terrain becomes increasingly rocky and glacial.
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
Thukla Pass Memorials & Khumbu Moraine — Lobuche (4,940 m) — 5–6 hrs (8 km)
We leave Dingboche and cross open ground towards Thukla. After a break, the trail climbs more steeply to the memorial area above the village. The stone memorials commemorate climbers and Sherpas who lost their lives in the mountains.
Beyond this section, we continue beside the Khumbu Glacier towards Lobuche. Uneven ground and increasing altitude make the walking more demanding, even where the gradient eases. We settle into the teahouse and prepare for tomorrow’s journey to Everest Base Camp.
Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and Visit Everest Base Camp
Glacial Moraine & Expedition Foothold — Gorak Shep (5,164 m) [EBC: 5,364 m] — 7–8 hrs (12 km)
We start from Lobuche and follow the rocky trail towards Gorak Shep. After a break, we continue to Everest Base Camp, crossing uneven glacial ground along the Khumbu Glacier.
Reaching base camp brings you into the landscape used by Everest expedition teams. During the spring climbing season, tents and expedition activity may be visible. At other times, the glacier and surrounding mountains define the visit.
After spending time at base camp, we retrace the trail to Gorak Shep. Tonight’s stop puts us close to the starting point for tomorrow’s Kala Patthar hike.
Day 10: Hike Kala Patthar and Take the Helicopter Shuttle to Lukla
Summit Viewpoint & Aerial Helicopter Shuttle — Lukla (2,860 m) [Kala Patthar: 5,545 m] — 3–4 hrs hike + Heli
We make an early start for Kala Patthar. The climb above Gorak Shep is steep in places, and the altitude makes it demanding. In clear weather, the viewpoint offers close views of Everest, Nuptse, Pumori and the surrounding Khumbu peaks.
After the hike, return to Gorak Shep for breakfast and prepare for the helicopter shuttle. Follow the operating team’s pickup, seating and baggage instructions. Weather determines whether the flight proceeds. After landing in Lukla, check into your lodge before tomorrow’s onward flight to Kathmandu.
Day 11: Fly from Lukla and Return to Kathmandu
Fixed-Wing Mountain Flight — Kathmandu (1,400 m) — Hotel Check-in & Rest
We prepare for the return flight from Lukla. Depending on the operating schedule, you may fly directly to Kathmandu or land at Manthali Airport and continue by road.
After reaching your hotel, the remaining time is available for rest or shopping. Organise your belongings and confirm tomorrow’s airport transfer arrangements with our team. Flight timing depends on weather and airline operations, so allow flexibility around your return.
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu
Airport Transfer & International Departure — Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
Your twelve-day Everest journey ends today. Prepare for your international departure and confirm the transfer time with our team. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for a final walk near the hotel.
Our representative accompanies you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
What’s Included in the EBC Helicopter Return Trek
Airport transfers
Pickup and drop-off for your arrival and departure in Kathmandu.
Return Lukla flights
Domestic airfare to and from Lukla; confirm seasonal Manthali routing and road transfers in your quotation.
Accommodation
Two nights in a three-star Kathmandu hotel, plus nine lodge nights along the trek. Confirm room sharing and hotel breakfast arrangements before finalising your quotation.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout trekking, followed by seasonal fruit and chocolate after dinner when available. Confirm Kathmandu hotel breakfasts and other city meal arrangements in your written quotation.
Guide and porters
An experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porter support throughout the walking programme.
Permits and entry fees
Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry fee.
Helicopter return
A shuttle from Gorak Shep to Lukla after Kala Patthar; confirm seating, baggage limits and passenger allocation before departure.
Attached bathrooms
Included at your lodges in Phakding, Namche Bazaar and Lukla.
Arrival briefing
Review the programme, essential equipment and preparations in Kathmandu.
Trekking drinks
Three cups of tea or coffee daily, alongside the included trekking meals.
What’s Not Included in the EBC Helicopter Return Trek
International flights and Nepal visa
Airfare to and from Nepal and your visa fee.
Travel insurance
The cost of your insurance policy, which must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Emergency expenses
Helicopter rescue, evacuation and medical treatment costs are excluded; scheduled shuttle transport is separate.
Personal equipment
Trekking boots, clothing, sleeping bag, down jacket and bags unless loan items are confirmed in your quotation.
Personal expenses
Snacks, bottled water, laundry and beverages beyond included meals, seasonal fruit, chocolate and the tea or coffee allowance.
Kathmandu meals
Breakfasts, lunches and dinners unless specifically included in your confirmed hotel quotation.
Lodge extras
Confirm shower, charging and Wi-Fi charges beforehand.
Guide and porter tips
Gratuities for your trekking team.
Additional costs
Excess baggage, extra accommodation and alternative transport outside agreed services, including arrangements needed for weather delays or extensions.
EBC with Helicopter Return Dates & Availability
Group Departures
Join fellow trekkers on set departure dates with guaranteed departures, fixed transparent per-person rates, and dedicated Sherpa guides.
Private Trek Dates
Prefer your own group or custom schedule? Pick any date on our calendar or message us directly on WhatsApp for tailored itinerary arrangements.
05
SEP
Sep 5 – Sep 16, 2026
AVAILABLE$2,275 pp
18
SEP
Sep 18 – Sep 29, 2026
GUARANTEED$2,275 pp
What to Pack for the EBC with Helicopter Return Trek
Pack layers for warmer walking days, cold mornings and evenings, and changing weather at higher elevations. Keep water, a warm layer, rain protection, medicines and valuables in your daypack. Use your main duffel for the rest of your belongings.
Hiking Gear
Footwear, technical trekking poles, daypack and trail protection
Clothing & Layering
Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating fleece, down jacket and waterproof shells
Sleeping Equipment
Sub-zero sleeping bags and hygienic liners for high-altitude mountain lodges
Toiletries & Hygiene
Sanitation, high-SPF sun protection, personal medication and first aid
Electronics & Power
Cold-resistant lithium battery packs, headlamp, cables and wall adapters
Documents & Personal Items
Passports, permits, travel insurance, cash reserves and UV sunglasses
Luggage Reminder: Domestic flights & helicopter shuttles carry a strict 15 kg (33 lbs) weight allowance per trekker (10 kg duffel + 5 kg daypack). Excess luggage can be stored securely free of charge at our Kathmandu hotel.
Download / Print Checklist PDF →
1. Trek Difficulty and Fitness
Challenging outward trek over steep paths with helicopter flight return from Gorak Shep.
The outward trek involves steep paths, stone steps and uneven ground on consecutive days. The helicopter reduces return walking, while Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar still require sustained effort at high altitude. Technical climbing skills are not normally required, but fitness and preparation remain essential.
Previous hiking experience is helpful. First-time trekkers should build their endurance before departure and become comfortable walking uphill and downhill with a daypack.
Begin preparing around two to three months beforehand, allowing longer if you are starting from a low fitness level. Gradually combine regular walks, hill hikes and strength exercises. Practise in the boots you will wear on the trek.
2. Altitude and Acclimatisation
Acclimatisation schedule in Namche and Dingboche; safety and health always take priority.
Our itinerary includes acclimatisation days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. These give you time to adjust before continuing higher, but altitude illness can still affect you, regardless of fitness.
Tell your guide immediately about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue. Do not continue to a higher sleeping altitude while experiencing symptoms of altitude illness. If symptoms worsen despite resting at the same elevation, descent is necessary. Reaching Base Camp must remain secondary to your health.
3. Medical Conditions and Travel Insurance
Mandatory travel insurance covering trekking up to 5,545 m and emergency medical evacuation.
If you have an existing medical condition, seek advice from a healthcare professional familiar with high-altitude travel before booking. Discuss your planned route and any medicines you take.
Travel insurance is compulsory for this package. Confirm trekking cover to approximately 5,545 metres, emergency helicopter evacuation and medical treatment in Nepal. The planned shuttle does not replace rescue cover. Check exclusions, excess charges and the assistance procedure; carry policy details and contacts.
4. Accommodation and Room Facilities
2 hotel nights in Kathmandu plus 9 lodge nights with attached bathrooms where available.
The package includes two nights in a three-star Kathmandu hotel and nine lodge nights. Attached bathrooms are included in Phakding, Namche and Lukla. Confirm room sharing and Kathmandu breakfasts before departure.
Higher on the route, expect simpler rooms and shared bathroom facilities. Comfort varies between lodges, and private rooms can be limited during busy periods. Be prepared for cold nights and fewer facilities around Lobuche and Gorak Shep.
5. Food and Dietary Requirements
Nutritious full-board mountain meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with dietary requirements handled.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included during the trek. Teahouse menus commonly offer dal bhat, noodles, potatoes, soups and other straightforward meals.
Tell us about allergies or dietary requirements before booking so we can discuss what can be arranged along the route. Explain any strict requirements clearly, including concerns about shared cooking equipment.
6. Drinking Water
Boiled or treated drinking water using reusable bottles; single-use plastic bottles discouraged.
Carry reusable bottles and drink boiled or appropriately treated water. Water from a clear stream or an untreated tap may still contain germs.
Boiling is the most reliable way to kill germs. If boiling is unavailable, filtration followed by disinfection offers broader protection than many portable filters alone. Follow the instructions for your treatment equipment or tablets.
7. Guide and Porter Support
Experienced government-licensed guide and porter support shared between two trekkers.
An experienced English-speaking guide leads the trek, with porters carrying your agreed luggage allowance. You carry your daypack. Confirm porter allocation, baggage limits and the team’s return travel arrangements before leaving for Lukla.
8. Showers, Charging and Communication
Services vary by elevation; carry a power bank and prepare for remote connectivity.
Shower, Wi-Fi and charging arrangements vary between lodges; confirm which services are included in your quotation. Connections can be unreliable higher in the valley. Carry a power bank, and tell family that you may be out of contact during parts of the walk and return journey.
9. Permits and Documents
Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu entry fees arranged and included in full.
We arrange the Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry permit as part of the package. Carry your passport, insurance details and copies of important documents. Your Nepal visa remains your responsibility.
10. Flight Delays and Extra Time
Weather flexibility required for Lukla flights; buffer days recommended in Kathmandu.
Lukla flights can be delayed or cancelled because of weather. During peak periods, flights may use Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, requiring a road transfer.
There is no separate reserve day. The helicopter is scheduled for Day 10, followed by Lukla flights on Day 11 before Day 12 departure.
Altitude Profile of the EBC Helicopter Return Trek
Your first trekking night is in Phakding, below Lukla. Overnight stops rise through Namche, Tengboche and Dingboche to Gorak Shep, the highest sleeping stop. Kala Patthar is a daytime hike before returning by helicopter to Lukla. The table separates sleeping elevations from higher daytime visits.
ELEVATION TRAJECTORY
Interactive Elevation Map & Trail Gradient
Higher Places You Visit
Day 4
3,880 m
Hotel Everest View
Around 3,880 m, followed by a return to Namche Bazaar.
Day 7
Acclimatisation hike above Dingboche
The turnaround point depends on conditions and the group’s health.
Day 9
5,364 m
Everest Base Camp
Around 5,364 m, followed by an overnight stay in Gorak Shep.
Day 10
5,545 m
Kala Patthar
Around 5,545 m, the highest planned point, before flying to Lukla.
The repeated overnight elevations in Namche and Dingboche represent acclimatisation days. You still walk during these days, then return to the same village to sleep.
Weather and Best Time for the EBC Helicopter Return Trek
Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, are generally the main seasons for this Everest helicopter return trek. Both offer opportunities for mountain views and favourable walking, although weather can affect upper trails, the helicopter shuttle and onward Lukla flights.
TEMPERATURE & CLIMATE
Interactive Temperature Graph & Climate Trends
Seasonal Weather Conditions
Spring
March–MayLower trails gradually warm, with rhododendrons on forested sections. March can retain winter snow higher up. April and May bring longer daylight, while afternoon cloud or haze can affect views and flights.
Autumn
September–NovemberEarly September may retain monsoon rain and cloud. Later autumn often offers clearer mornings, with colder nights around Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep. Snowfall and wind can still affect walking or flying.
Winter
December–FebruaryExpect severe cold, short daylight and possible snow or ice on upper trails. Check lodge availability, access to Kala Patthar and flight feasibility before choosing winter dates. Clear days do not guarantee operations.
Monsoon
June–August, sometimes extending into SeptemberRain and cloud affect lower trails, mountain visibility and flight operations. Slippery paths can slow progress. Helicopter availability does not remove weather restrictions, so allow flexibility and discuss the operating plan.
These are seasonal patterns; conditions can vary from year to year and during an individual trek.
How Weather Changes Along the Route
Walking around Phakding and Namche Bazaar can feel relatively warm in sunshine. Conditions become colder as you continue towards Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep, particularly before sunrise and after sunset.
Even during spring and autumn, nights on the higher route can fall below freezing. Exposed sections, including the climb to Kala Patthar, can also feel colder in the wind. Carry warm layers and weather protection whichever month you choose.
Which Season Should You Choose?
Spring Recommendation:
Mild daylight temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and active wildlife across lower approach valleys.
Autumn Recommendation:
Crystal-clear post-monsoon atmospheric clarity, sharp panoramic views, and stable high-altitude conditions.
Choose spring if you prefer gradually warming days and flowering forests on the lower trail. Choose autumn, particularly October or November, if mountain visibility is your main priority. Winter and monsoon require greater flexibility and preparation for less comfortable conditions.
Everest Base Camp Trek Topographic Route Map
Our detailed topographic trail map illustrates the complete route through the Dudh Koshi and Khumbu Valleys, highlighting key checkpoints, overnight mountain villages (Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep), high vantage points (Kala Patthar at 5,545 m and Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m), and the scenic chartered helicopter return flight corridor back to Lukla.
SECURE YOUR DATES
Book the EBC Helicopter Return Trek
Send us your preferred dates, group size and questions about the Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return. We’ll check availability and provide a quotation covering the walking and flight arrangements. Tell us about your hiking experience, accommodation needs and any concerns about altitude or baggage so we can discuss suitable preparations before departure.
25 October
16 October
29 September
12 October
Guided by Sagar Gurung
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return FAQs
General & Route
Can I do this trek without previous trekking experience?
Yes, provided you prepare well and have suitable fitness. Previous hiking experience helps, but technical climbing skills are unnecessary. Before departure, practise longer hill walks with a daypack and become comfortable walking uphill and downhill on consecutive days.
What is the highest altitude on this itinerary?
The highest planned point is Kala Patthar at approximately 5,545 metres, above Everest Base Camp at 5,364 metres. Your highest overnight stop is Gorak Shep at approximately 5,164 metres, where you stay after visiting Base Camp.
Can I see Mount Everest from Base Camp?
Everest’s summit is generally hidden behind nearby ridges from Base Camp itself. Kala Patthar provides the clearer view of Everest that many travellers expect. Our itinerary includes this viewpoint, although mountain visibility depends on the weather.
Are acclimatisation days complete rest days?
They usually include a shorter hike above Namche Bazaar or Dingboche, followed by a return to the same village to sleep. Your guide adjusts the hike according to conditions and how the group is feeling.
Is our return helicopter private or shared?
Confirm the allocation in your quotation. The package includes a Gorak Shep–Lukla shuttle, but the published prices do not specify private or shared use. Ask about seating, baggage limits, staff travel arrangements and extra charges before confirming your booking.
Does our return helicopter fly directly back to Kathmandu?
The helicopter shuttle takes you from Gorak Shep to Lukla on Day 10. After an overnight stay, Day 11 uses an onward flight to Kathmandu or Manthali, with road travel to Kathmandu if landing there. Weather may affect either stage.
Is insurance covering trekking to 5,500 metres sufficient?
A limit of 5,500 metres falls below the planned Kala Patthar elevation of approximately 5,545 metres. Ask your insurer to confirm coverage for the full route, emergency helicopter evacuation and medical treatment, including any relevant exclusions or conditions.
Does being fit protect me from altitude sickness?
No. Good fitness helps with the walking demands, but it does not prevent altitude illness. Fit and experienced trekkers can also become unwell. Follow the acclimatisation schedule and report symptoms immediately instead of assuming fitness will protect you.
What should I do if I feel unwell at altitude?
Tell your guide immediately about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue. Do not ascend to a higher sleeping altitude while experiencing symptoms of altitude illness. If symptoms worsen despite rest at the same elevation, descent is necessary.
Do I need to carry my main trekking bag?
Porters carry your trekking bag within the agreed allowance. You carry water, weather protection, medicines and essentials in a daypack. Confirm porter allocation and helicopter baggage limits, keeping your passport, money and valuables with you.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag and down jacket?
Confirm any loan equipment in your quotation. Otherwise, arrange your own sleeping bag, down jacket and trekking bag before departure. Check suitable warmth, rental availability, equipment condition and baggage limits for both aircraft types with us beforehand.
Can I book as a solo traveller?
The starting price for one person is USD 3,105. Send your travel dates so we can check availability and confirm guide, porter and helicopter arrangements, accommodation and the final quotation for your planned twelve-day journey.
