travel guide

Everything about the Everest base camp trek with helicopter return

If there is something that you have found during your research on the Everest Base Camp Trek tour, it is the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour. But have you ever found the Everest base camp with helicopter return? If not, then today, this article will acknowledge the ever-popular Everest base camp with helicopter return. The number of people who wish to visit the Everest base camp has grown yearly.

This trek is perfect for those who cannot afford to spend much time on the mountain- for insight trekkers. For those who don’t wish to climb high on the mountains. But desire to get a peek at mighty Everest from another side- or more comfortable trek. Others are those who are interested in the scenic beauty of this place. But are not very enthusiastic about undertaking a full hike that involves difficult routes of this kind. They also feel that the helicopter is convenient for the return journey.

Everest base camp with helicopter Return

The Everest base camp with helicopter return option is one of the excellent trekking adventures. It provides visitors with the highest comfort during the tour. This journey starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Then it continues to trek through the lanes of colourful Sherpa villages, rushing rivers, dense forests of rhododendrons, and splendid valleys. This means that trekkers pass through some of the foremost popular and attractive destinations. Such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, where trekkers can visit some of the most attractive monasteries. They get the closest and most stunning views of Mount Everest and other related mountains. This, in its special way, is a victory in that after walking for days, we get to the base camp, which has an altitude of 5,364 meters, and the view of the Khumbu icefall and the other mountains is breathtaking.

It must also be noted that the day is incredibly filled with events. It is an equally fascinating, envious glimpse of the sightseeing tour of Kathmandu by Helicopter. This shot is probably preferable because it offers a somewhat panoramic view. Mainly of the rocks, snow-covered peaks, and valleys conquered in the past few days. Moreover, the helicopter return provides a convenient and time-saving journey for a trekker and offers a different sense of weight from the Himalayas. Any adventurer will agree that the best idea they have come across is to trek up to the Everest Base Camp and then fly back to Lukla in a helicopter.

Mount Everest base camp helicopter tour

Only for those interested in having a bird’ s-eye view of Mount Everest and the surrounding terrains. Everest base camp trekking with helicopter return is a great idea. The tour, in its general format, starts with an adrenaline-rush helicopter ride from Kathmandu. It is followed by a bird’ s-eye view of some of Nepal’s impressive mountain ranges.

While hiking, passengers can experience views of Lukla or Syangboche and be close to the marvellous Himalayas. Which include Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. This allows them to pose for a photo and admire the magnificent scenery of the Everest region.

The Everest base camp with helicopter return may continue for a while. You’ll be stopping at the Everest View Hotel The highest hotel in the world, where tourists can have tea or coffee with direct views of Mount Everest and other mountains. Finally, the helicopter carries the passengers to the Everest Base Camp. Where the travelers will be able to view Khumbu Ice Fall and other mountains. The Everest base camp trek helicopter return trip is also a good time to look at the spectacular mountain before landing in Kathmandu.

How much does the Everest Base Camp Trek helicopter return cost?

The cost of an Everest base camp trek helicopter return can also differ based on various aspects. Including the tour company, the length of the trek, the standard of the lodges/accommodation provided, and the season. From the previous data, it can be said that a normal 12-14-day trek with helicopter trek may cost from $ 2500 to $ 5000 per head. This cost covers permits, accommodation, meals, guides and porters, helicopter hire, and airport transfers. It still needs to be understood that prices can vary. So, it is better to ask the tour operators for the current price and if some hidden charges must be met.

Everest base camp helicopter crash

The other unfortunate event happened in April 2019 in the Everest region. On April 14, 2019, a plane crashed at Lukla Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Nepal. The aircraft, designed for high-altitude and short runway operations, swung right during takeoff and hit a parked helicopter. The crash killed the aeroplane’s first officer and a police officer standing near the helicopter. Another injured police officer died later during surgery in Kathmandu. Four others were injured but were then out of danger.

The plane was operated by Summit Air, a small Nepali airline. In 2017, the same model of aircraft, also flown by Summit Air, crashed at Lukla Airport while attempting to land, resulting in the deaths of both pilots.

On July 11, a helicopter crash near Mount Everest killed six people, including five members of a Mexican family. The Manang Air NA-MV helicopter took off from Surke Airport in Solukhumbu district at 10:04 a.m. for Kathmandu and lost contact at 10:13 a.m. at an altitude above 12,000 feet, according to Gyanendra Bhul, Manager at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

The crash happened in the Lamjura area of Likhupike Rural Municipality, a remote part of Solukhumbu. TIA spokesperson Tek Nath Sitaula said that all six bodies were found during a search operation. The victims were returning to Kathmandu after a mountain flight from Lukla.

Is Mount Everest Base Camp and Helicopter Tour dangerous?

Helicopter tours to Mount Everest Base Camp are a risky activity. Mainly because of the specific geographical features and especially due to the fluctuating climate of the mountainous area. That is why, despite being rather limited, possibilities of certain risks may include high altitude, bad weather conditions, and rough terrains. Nonetheless, legal operators provide safety aspects with serious attention, hiring professional pilots and maintaining safety standards. Minimize risks for passengers who must adhere to safety regulations by wearing seat belts and traveling with operators with great safety records.

Everest base camp with helicopter return itinerary

Day 01: First day: Arrival in Kathmandu

Your Everest base camp trek helicopter return starts right after reaching Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport terminal. The guide from Himalayan Masters will be waiting for you and will move you to your hotel. You can take two days off and visit Kathmandu to join a briefing session at the Himalayan Masters in Thamel.

Day 02: A flight to Lukla; the trekking starts in Phakding

You will fly for 25 minutes to Lukla, where your guide will meet you before starting the trek to Phakding. The trek takes about three to four hours downhill and offers majestic views of the landscape and the villages of Thadokoshi and Ghat.

Day 03: Namche Bazaar Trekking

It will take you approximately 6-7 hours to reach Namche Bazaar. The starting point for the trek to the Everest region, with lunch at Gorkelle. Namche is at 3440 meters, and it has good teahouse accommodation with an attached bath and even a hot shower.

Day 04: Acclimatization Day at Namche

The next destination is Rest and Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar. Stroll around the town, and some vantage viewpoints include Thamo, Khunde, and the famed Everest View Hotel.

Day 05: The Tengboche Trek

Trek to Tengboche via Kyanjnuma and Fungi Thanga, an approximately 6-hour walk. Explore the Tengboche monastery and immerse yourself in the picturesque vistas of Ama Dablam, Everest, etc.

Day 06: Dingboche Trek

The trek there will take about 5 hours, and the view is gorgeous. Spend the day exploring the stunning views and getting used to the higher altitude.

Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

One can relax or take a short trek to familiarise oneself with Dingboche and neighbouring villages such as Chhukung and Imja.

Day 08: Lobuche Trek

Lobuche trek via Thukla and Chupki Lhara. One can view the Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar, and beautiful mountains like Khumbutse and Pumori.

Day 09: Go to the Everest Base Camp, then to Gorak Shep

Hike to the Everest Base Camp, get stunning vistas, and return to Gorak Shep for a night’s stay. There are no accommodations at the Everest Base Camp.

Day 10: Trek to Kalapatthar, Flight to Kathmandu

You will climb to Kala Patthar to view the sunrise, then take a helicopter to Lukla or Kathmandu to complete the trek.

Is Everest helicopter tour worth it?

An Everest helicopter tour can be a great time, an exciting adventure, or just a waste of money. It depends on the person’s preference and the number of bucks offered for the trip. This tour allows travellers to observe the world’s tallest mountain and its mesmerizing surroundings from a birds’- eye view in a fascinating and hassle-free manner. The Mt Everest base camp helicopter tour will definitely suit everyone. Mainly people who have limited time or physical strength enough to get to the foot of Everest.

However, tours are costly compared to treks because they have a time limit. The experience is limited compared to treks. Others can argue that treks provide a much more intimate experience. Where a person can feel more connected to the locals and the environment.

Thus, whether it is worth going on a tour depends solely on one’s preferences and what one wants to do most. For anyone who dreams of seeing Everest by helicopter, which is possible at a reasonable price, such a tour can be thrilling and remarkable.

Altitude Sickness and Remedies during Everest Base Camp Helicopter Return

Just like some trekkers experience after returning from the Everest base camp helicopter. Altitude sickness may occur whenever one moves to high altitude too fast. Some commonly experienced early signs are headache, nausea, dizziness, and tiredness. Altitude sickness can be managed through proper preparation. Such as mindful ascent, adequate water intake, and avoiding alcohol and any heavy physical activity.

It is also relevant to note that one must be observant of the symptoms of altitude sickness during a helicopter return and be prepared to inform the crew once one experiences discomfort. They might have oxygen tanks or something to help with breathing issues. The best way to treat it, should you have symptoms, is to descend to a lower altitude.

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Booking Procedure

It is easy to organize the Everest base camp helicopter return with the help of Himalayan Masters. Start by identifying their packages, then form a table where you compare them by the itinerary, price, and reviews. It is easier to contact Himalayan Masters through phone, mail, or their website to find out their current schedules and how to book them.

Finally, when you have agreed on dates and packages with Himalayan Masters, you will receive the booking confirmation and payment details. Payments are made through bank transfers, credit cards, and online payment solutions. Before planning your trek, ensure that you apply for the necessary permits, obtain travel insurance, and other relevant essentials.

After arriving at the Everest Base Camp and finishing your trek, expect your helicopter evacuation as organized by your trekking service provider, Himalayan Masters. Please fill out the following feedback form to let us know about your experience after the trek to assist us in enhancing our services.

Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

The best time for Everest base camp trek with helicopter return is mainly determined by the climatic conditions and other factors that are preferable for the trekking activities.

Spring (March to May): 

Everest base camp trek and return back by helicopter are recommended during this season to complete, making it the best season for this activity. The climate is moderate, with clear sunshine and no extreme weather fluctuations, which makes it perfect for viewing the mighty mountains like the Himalayas. There are also flowers such as rhododendrons and other wildflowers that grow on the sides of the trail, thus adorning the trek.

Autumn (September to November): 

Another one best suited for the Everest base camp trek and return back by helicopter is autumn, which has sun, fresh air, and no regional instability. The weather is great, with fairly warm temperatures and clear weather for the best Everest views of the surrounding mountains. This season is comparatively less busy than spring, so many trekkers prefer this season.

These are the seasons where the climate is normally dry, and there is a low likelihood of what might adversely affect flying conditions, such as storms. Nevertheless, one has to understand that the weather in the higher zones of the Himalayas is very unpredictable. Therefore, studying the weather conditions before the trip and preparing for the unexpected is always better.

Finally, the most suitable timing for your Everest base camp trek and return back by helicopter is a matter of your choice and convenience, as well as how you feel about adventure, some company, and the climate. However, the important thing to note in all these cases is that despite the season you choose for your trekking expedition, it is important for you to plan well and prepare well for the activity.

Tips for Everest Base Camp trek return by helicopter

Acclimatize Properly:

Acute Mountain Sickness, or AMS, is one of the major concerns when making treks or climbs to as high as Everest Base Camp. To reduce this danger, cautiously approach the ascent, keep water, and heed your body’s signs. As much as possible, avoid altitude sickness; if symptoms occur, move to a lower altitude at once.

Choose a Reputable Operator:

While planning this trek and Mount Everest base camp helicopter tour, you should choose the right operator with little or no accident history. Ensure the type of helicopter used is well-checked and undergoes regular maintenance and checkups from experienced pilots.

Pack Wisely:

Ensure suitable wear for the journey, including strong hiking boots, warm clothing, a decent raincoat, and a durable bag to carry everything. Moreover, pack important items like sunblock and goggles, a small kit with basic first aid supplies, and any prescription drugs or other necessary items that you may require.

Follow Safety Guidelines:

While on the trek, especially on the EBC trek with helicopter return tour, adhere to all the safety measures your guide and the chopper crew give you. This includes ensuring that the passenger wears a seat belt during the flight and obeying any directions the flight attendants give.

Be prepared for Weather Changes:

The climate of the Himalayas is quite changeable, so travellers must take care. The seasons can change unexpectedly. Pack a raincoat or poncho and learn the symptoms of hypothermia if the weather is cooler than expected.