The EBC Heli Return Trek adjoins the hiking to Everest Base Camp with an exciting helicopter flight swerving back to Kathmandu. Like no other element, this trip presents incredible views of mountains and terrains below, with a luxurious ride from Gorakshep to Kathmandu. It gives you the most amazing views of the mightiest mountains and emerald terrains that pass aside you. It is a marvelous dream for any trekker to reach the Everest Base Camp. A journey to the lap of Everest is no small feat, even though certain constraints like limited time hinder this trip. However, the 11 days of Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek is perfect for trekkers who are short on time and want to do it quickly.
EBC Heli Return Trek Highlights
THRILLING FLIGHT TO LUKLA
EXPLORE LIVELY NAMCHE BAZAAR & EVEREST VIEW HOTEL
ADORE EXCITING VIEWS OF MIGHTY EVEREST, LHOTSE, NUPTSE, AMA DABLAM, CHO OYU, KONGDE RI, THAMSERKU & MORE.
VISIT GRAND TENGBOCHE MONASTERY
TRAVERSE RICH SAGARMATHA NATIONAL PARK
HIKE TO THE EVEREST BASE CAMP (5,364M) & KALA PATTHAR (5,545M)
EXCITING HELICOPTER FLIGHT BACK FROM GORAKSHEP TO KATHMANDU
Moreover, Everest Heli Trek commences with a dramatic flight to Lukla. The town of Lukla is brimming with panoramic mountain views and verdant hills. The trail continues through fascinating settings and villages, like Phakding crossing vast acreages of alpine forests. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, the paths emerge into the Khumbu region's central hub, showcasing many ivory peaks. An acclimatization hike to the Everest View Hotel will present the most stunning Everest, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam views. Also, visiting the holy Tengboche Monastery adds a unique spiritual ambiance to the trek.
Indeed being at the Everest Base Camp is a daydream experience. The spellbinding views of Everest, Nuptse, Lho La, Lingtren, Pumori, and Chhangtse encircle you. Further, an early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) is rewarding with the most transparent view of the mighty Everest. Regardless, the foreground tapestry of the Himalayas is quite an ethereal sight to view. Hiking in Khumbu, you will undoubtedly learn about the local people's culture and daily Himalayan lifestyle. It is a quintessential experience that lets you enjoy all of the best aspects of Everest trekking. After watching the glorious sunrise over enormous Himalayan ranges, we hike back to Gorakshep. Likewise, the breakfast after the hike follows a helicopter return flight to Kathmandu.
Alternative Treks Options
Also, we have alternative packages for the Everest region, like our standard Everest Base Camp Trek. Similarly, we offer the Everest Panorama Trek to perceive Everest from a perfect vantage point shortly. Join us for this ideal trekking journey with a comfortable itinerary!
Detail Itinerary
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1Day 01
Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu
Your landing at the airport marks the first day of the trip. A representative from Escape Himalaya will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. You'll get a short program briefing regarding the trip, and you may relax for the remainder of the time.
Overnight at the hotel. Breakfast Included.
2Day 02
Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,652m/8,699ft). Walking Distance: 8 km, Duration: 3 Hours
We shall take on a beautiful morning flight to Lukla this day, presenting you with some pretty sights of the landscape, which changes as you move from the capital to your destination. The city dissolves back into the horizon, and the land emerges as a vibrant green shade with lush vegetation, foliage, and hills, contrasting the blue sky. Then, we will begin our trek with an easy walk passing through the village of Chaurikharka and walking down towards Dudh Koshi Ghat, lying at an altitude of 2,530m. Trekking along the shore of Dudh Koshi River, we will reach Phakding.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
3Day 03
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft). Walking Distance: 10 to 12 km, Duration: 6 Hours
We will head off from Phakding on this day and pass through splendid rhododendron forests, the wood blossoming rich with magnolia and aligned with fir trees. The area will be full of blooming rhododendron flowers during springtime. We will also pass through Jorsalle (2,805m) and pass by the junction of Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi. We will climb for some time and get the first glimpse of Everest if the weather is clear and the clouds part way. Ascending further, we will reach Namche Bazaar, a flourishing Sherpa village and an administrative hub of the Khumbu region.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
4Day 04
Acclimatization Day - Hike To Everest View Hotel, Walking Distance: 3 to 4 km, Duration: 4 Hours
At Namche Bazaar, we will rest to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness to help adjust our bodies to the raised elevation. We will, therefore, climb to Everest View Hotel, which presents magnificent views of Mount Everest, Mount Ama Dablam, and more of the surrounding peaks. We will also walk to the Khunde and Khumjung villages beneath Khumbila, the rock-strewn mountain considered holy by all Sherpa people. In Khunde, we can visit the Edmund Hillary School, Hospital, and Khumjung Monastery. We will then trek back to Namche.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
5Day 05
Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft). Walking Distance: 10 to 11 km, Duration: 5 Hours
We will move ahead from Namche Bazaar and continue walking all along the rushing glacial waters of the Dudh Koshi. On the way to Sanasa, we will pass by the ethereal rhododendron forests. You may also see faunas like the multi-colored pheasants, musk deer, and the Himalayan Thar. From Sanasa, we will walk vertically up to the famous Tengboche monastery. Tengboche is the largest monastery in the Khumbu region which presents magnificent peak views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
6Day 06
Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,464ft). Walking Distance: 11 to 12 km, Duration: 5 Hours
We will trek for around 5 hours to get to Dingboche on this day. Our trek begins with an adjacent route with the rhododendron forest from Tengboche to Debuche. We will also traverse the raging Imja River through a suspension bridge and pass by Pangboche village, the region's biggest village occupied by Sherpa people. Here we can walk to Pangboche monastery, one of the ancient monasteries. We will have quite a challenging walk in the afternoon as the scenery turns dry and deserted before reaching Dingboche.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
7Day 07
Acclimatization Day - Hike to Nagerjun Hill (5,100m/16,728ft). Walking Distance: 5 to 6 km, Duration: 4 to 5 Hours
Today, we will have another acclimatization hike in Dingboche. We will hike to Nagerjun Hill, just above Dingboche, to get accustomed to the high altitude. It will be a pretty challenging day as the path is steeper. It takes around 5 hours to reach Nagerjun, where the stunning views of the Lobuche East (6,119m), Kangtega (6,685m), the Toboche Peak (6,367m), Lobuche West (6,145m), the Thamserku (6,608m), and Mount Ama Dablam (6,856m) will mesmerize us. Then, we will return to Dingboche.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
8Day 08
Trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,105ft).Distance: 11 to 12 km, Duration: 5 Hours
We will climb steeply up to Lobuche, leaving behind Dingboche. We will also pass Dhugla, located at the tip of the Khumbu Glacier. With a vertical and small climb up, we will stroll to Thukla Pass and see memorials for fallen Everest climbers. Also, you cannot ignore the stunning vista of the enormous mountains. We will finally reach Lobuche (4,910m) with a trouble-free walk.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
9Day 09
Trek to Gorakshep (5,181m/16,994ft) & Hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,594ft). Distance: 14 to 15 km, Duration: 8 Hours
Departing from Lobuche, we will walk towards Gorakshep from Lobuche on this day. Today is a crucial trek day as we will reach the Everest Base Camp. Upon reaching the foot of Mt. Everest, the views of Everest, Mahalangur, Khumbutse, Lingtren, Mt. Pumori, and Mt. Nuptse will enthrall us. We will also walk further up to the top, passing the gush of Changri Glacier to get the sight of Kala Patthar, which translates to "Black Rock" in Nepali. Walking further ahead, we will reach the Everest Base Camp, where we shall have a fantastic time drowning ourselves in the majesty of Sagarmatha! Then, we will return to Gorakshep.
Overnight at the guesthouse. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
10Day 10
Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,188ft) & Helicopter Return to Kathmandu
We will walk from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar early in the morning to witness the magnificent sunrise view over Mt. Everest. The spectacular views of Chhangtse, Nuptse, Lhotse, and others will be alluring. At Kala Patthar, you will also spend some rewarding time remaining in your memories forever.
After breakfast, you will experience a comfortable helicopter ride back to Kathmandu. While on the ride, you can witness stunning aerial views of the panoramic landscapes and massive Himalayan ranges. The flight is a thrilling and scenic helicopter return tour to Kathmandu. You will be transferred to the hotel upon landing at Tribhuwan International Airport.
Overnight at the hotel. Breakfast is included.
11Day 11
Farewell/Departure
One of the representatives from Escape Himalaya will transfer you to the Tribhuwan International Airport three hours earlier before your scheduled flight. And you will then depart, hopefully with a lifetime experience and exciting memories to share.
Breakfast is included.
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
All ground transports in private vehicles, including airport transfers
Two nights accommodation with breakfast at a 5-star category hotel in Kathmandu
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek
Best available twin-sharing lodge-to-lodge accommodation for stopovers during the hike (We provide attached bathrooms with hot showers at Lukla, Phakding, and Namche.)
One highly experienced, helpful, and certified guide with porters to carry luggage (1 porter for two people), including their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance
Flight fare from Kathmandu - Lukla, including departure taxes
A private Sharing helicopter fly-out from Gorakshep to Lukla, Lukla to Kathmandu
Escape Himalaya Duffle Bag, Down Jacket, and Sleeping Bag during the trek
Escape Himalaya T-shirt, Trekking Map, and Trip Achievement Certificate
A comprehensive first-aid medical kit
Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit Fees
All government taxes & office service charges
Cost Excludes
Lunch and Dinner while in Kathmandu
Travel Insurance
International Airfare
Nepal Entry Visa (You can obtain a visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. A multiple-entry tourist visa suitable for 30 days can be obtained by paying USD 50 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying USD 125. Please bring two copies of passport-size photos.)
Cold drinks including coke, water, Fanta, etc.
Snacks and other personal expenses
Hot showers during the trek except in Phakding, Namche, and Lukla
Personal Trekking Equipment
Wi-Fi / Internet during the trek
Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
Yes, the majority of travelers to Nepal will need a visa. You can acquire one upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land border crossings. Alternatively, you have the option to apply for a visa beforehand at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Q2. Will there be someone to pick me up at the airport when I arrive?
Yes, Escape Himalaya offers airport pickup services for our clients. We recognize the significance of a seamless arrival and strive to guarantee a trouble-free beginning to your journey. When you reserve a trek or tour with us, you can coordinate with our team to schedule a representative to greet you at the airport upon your arrival.
Look for our staff member holding a signboard bearing your name or the company's name for easy recognition. Providing us with your flight details ahead of time, including your flight number and estimated arrival time, enables us to make suitable arrangements for your pickup.
Q3. As a solo traveler, are you able to join a group for your journey?
Certainly! As a solo traveler, you're welcome to join one of the groups organized by Escape Himalaya. We frequently arrange group treks and tours that cater to individuals traveling alone. Joining a group not only allows you to meet other travelers but also offers the opportunity to share experiences and potentially lower costs.
When reaching out to Escape Himalaya, simply inform us that you're a solo traveler interested in joining a group. We'll then provide details about available group departures and assist you in selecting a trek or tour that aligns with your preferences and travel dates.
Q4. What are the types of hotel you use in Kathmandu? Am I able to prolong my stay, and if so, what are the associated costs?
Generally, we use the best available 3-star, 4-star and 5-star category hotels for travelers' accommodation in Kathmandu. Meanwhile, travelers can upgrade or prolong accommodation with us as required.
The costs to prolong or upgrade hotel accommodation in Kathmandu may vary based on preferred hotel rates.
Q5. Would it be possible for me to upgrade my accommodation to a luxury hotel in Kathmandu?
Certainly! You have the option to upgrade your accommodation to a luxury hotel in Kathmandu. If you wish to elevate your stay from the standard 3-star hotel provided by Escape Himalaya, simply let us know, and we can arrange the upgrade for you. However, please bear in mind that availability and pricing for luxury hotels may fluctuate based on the hotel and the timing of your visit.
Q6. Which destinations are commonly favored by tourists visiting Nepal?
Nepal boasts breathtaking natural landscapes and a profound cultural legacy. Among the sought-after tourist spots are Kathmandu (the capital), Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Lumbini (the birthplace of Lord Buddha), Bhaktapur, as well as the renowned trekking regions of Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, and Upper Mustang.
Q7. What is your cancellation policy?
Escape Himalaya's cancellation policy states that the initial 20% deposit made upon booking is non-refundable and will be considered a cancellation fee. This policy is effective immediately upon booking confirmation. If you cancel your trip, this deposit is retained by Escape Himalaya.
However, if you have paid more than the 20% deposit, the cancellation fee will be reduced to 20%, and the remaining balance will be refunded via the original payment method.
Alternatively, they offer a flexible postponement policy. You can postpone your trip without any additional charge if you notify them at least one day before the scheduled departure. This allows you to reschedule your trip to a later date without losing your deposit.
Q8. Do we need a visa before coming to Nepal?
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Nepal. However, the process for obtaining a visa depends on your nationality. You can either obtain a visa from the diplomatic consulate office of Nepal in your respective country or apply for an “On Arrival” visa at the entry checkpoints of Nepal. Please click this link to get more information on ways to issue a tourist visa. Also please see the visa fee here below:
On-Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points of Nepal:
15 Days – 30 USD
30 Days – 50 USD
90 Days – 125 USD
Indian nationals do not need to have a visa to enter Nepal however they need to bring an official document such as a Passport or Election card (issued by the Election Commission) that proves their identity.
Q9. Which one is better: Group or Solo (private) trek?
Escape Himalaya offers both group and solo trek to Everest Base Camp. However, to choose to join which tour style completely depends upon the traveler itself.
If you are happy to meet people from other parts of the world and join in an experience of a lifetime with fellow travelers, then going for a group trek is also best.
However, if you prefer freedom and flexibility, trekking solo (private) will give you the independence to set your own pace and choose your itinerary. You will have the flexibility to make spontaneous decisions. You will not be bound by a group schedule and choose to lead your journey as you wish and even modify the plan if needed.
Q10. How challenging is trekking to Everest Base Camp?
The trek to Everest Base Camp is moderate to challenging due to the high altitude, cold weather conditions, and the need for acclimatization. The trek involves several days of walking, and the terrain can be steep and rocky at times. Altitude sickness is a potential risk, so it's important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of your body's signals.
The trek usually takes around 12 days from Lukla to Everest Base Camp and back, covering approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles). The altitude at Everest Base Camp is over 5,300 meters (17,500 feet), and the thin air can make physical exertion more demanding.
Even though the trek brings its challenges its adventurers, stunning landscapes and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching Everest Base Camp is worth every step taken. Proper preparation, including physical conditioning and acclimatization, is key to making the journey more manageable.
Q11. When is the best time to go for Everest Base Camp trekking?
The best time to go for Everest Base Camp trekking is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. These are some of the ideal times for exploring the trails as they offer favorable weather conditions and stunning mountain scenery of Everest massif.
Spring season which runs from late April to early June offers mild temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies. It is a pre-monsoon as well as post-winter season so the weather is much more favorable and the mountain backdrop and the trails are much more enjoyable for trekking activities. Also, the trail to Everest Base Camp is vibrant with trekkers coming from all parts of the world to witness the glorious mountain scenery and lively trek route.
Autumn season is another best time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek. It lasts from late September to early November and these periods offer stable and clear weather with cool temperatures. These periods also bring a large number of trekkers as the weather is relatively stable, with excellent visibility, offering breathtaking scenes of the Himalayan peaks.
As per trekking during winter and summer/monsoon seasons, these are the least preferred times to do the trek. Winter season which is from November to early March, the weather is extremely cold, and thick layer of snow is another challenge. Nevertheless, one can tackle these challenges with the proper gear. Winter despite being an unfavorable time to do the trek, showcases one of the best vistas of the mountains with clear skies and a peaceful atmosphere with less crowd.
Summer/Monsoon which lasts from June to September grants scenes of green landscapes with blooming flowers and vibrant vegetation along the trails. However, the challenge of flight delays and cancellations with rain is the great challenge of trekking in these times. If you are looking to trek with few crowds, it is the best time but you need to be prepared with the right gear, knowledge, and flexible schedule.
Above all, despite what different season holds, trekkers are always requested to check in with an informed person for the latest weather information before planning a trip.
Q12. How to prepare for Everest Base Camp trekking?
As Everest Base Camp trekking is a moderate to challenging trekking activity, some sort of prior preparation is needed. That being said, you do not have to have trekking experiences. No prior experience is needed yet it is a bonus if you have any. Nevertheless, if you are a beginner or looking to trek Everest Base Camp, you can prepare by doing physical exercises and by being mentally prepared.
For physical preparation, one can encompass cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance workouts. Running, hiking, cycling, and swimming all help in improving cardiovascular condition by strengthening the heart, making it more efficient in pumping blood throughout the body. It also helps in enhancing lung function improving efficiency of oxygen exchange during physical exertion. As the air pressure is low in the mountain region, it is very important to acclimatize properly before continuing the journey. Moreover, cardiovascular activities help in ascending and descending more easily as Everest Base Camp trekking is mostly about hiking up and down.
And as per mental preparedness, is equally important because trekking at high altitudes can be mentally challenging. So, develop a positive mindset and habit of being motivated. Also, one must be aware of their body and not ignore the issues if they are facing any.
Along with physical and mental preparedness, trekking must also be familiar with their trekking gear beforehand. Oftentimes, new gear such as boots do not offer the same comfort as the old ones. Similarly, do not miss out on essential items such as trekking poles, sunglasses, and sunscreen as they are very precious throughout the trek. Prepare your gear as the trek gear recommended by the trek operators.
Remember to start your preparation well in advance to gradually build up your fitness and make necessary arrangements. It is crucial to be well-informed and be prepared for a safe, enjoyable, and smooth trek.
Q13. How to deal with mountain sickness during Everest Base Camp Trekking?
There are challenges on any high-altitude treks. While challenges such as rugged paths, ascents, and descents are there, another crucial one is altitude sickness. Although not everybody suffers from it, one needs to become prepared and aware of it. One of the easiest ways to get altitude sickness is by not properly acclimatizing while ascending higher altitudes. Thus, it is essential to trek gradually. Symptoms like headache, nausea, vomiting fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath should not be ignored. If someone is suffering from it, talk to your guide, take the doctor's consulted medication if you have any, and if possible do not hike up until you feel better. However, if the trekkers are not feeling well even after performing all the preventive measures, they must be evacuated from the location. For evacuation, emergency rescue helicopters are available and your trek operator will assist you in managing it. When symptoms get severe it is very important to seek professional medication attention. That being said, it is crucial to not panic, you are with our expert and experienced trek guide. They will be assisting you until help is reached. Moreover, trekkers need to follow guide instructions as they are familiar with the trail, its nature, and the conditions.
Q14. How to avoid altitude sickness during Everest Base Camp trekking?
A few things one can do to avoid altitude sickness would be to ignore processed foods and drink alcoholic or soft drinks on the trail. Alongside, approaching the journey gradually is another way to avoid mountain sickness. Likewise, follow the plan, drink plenty of water, avoid foods that upset your stomach, and most importantly do not rush the journey. Similarly, do not ignore any symptoms and immediately take action if you feel uncomfortable. By following these guidelines and being attentive to your body's responses, you can significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp trek.
Q15. Is travel insurance necessary for Everest Base Camp Trek?
It is highly recommended for travelers to have travel insurance before beginning their Everest Base Camp Trek. As we know, it is a high-altitude trek involving certain risks thus having travel insurance ensures travelers with coverage for any unforeseen conditions. Henceforth, please purchase nice travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation as well as trip interruptions. We suggest trekkers purchase a policy that covers any altitude over 5000 meters. And lastly, please do good research about policies before purchasing it.
Q16. How much extra money we should bring for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The amount of extra money you should carry for the Everest Base Camp trek depends on various factors including your spending nature and trek duration. Your extra cash will be going towards snacks, drinking water, hot showers, electricity, and WIFI. We suggest you prepare about 2500-3000 Nepalese rupees per day while on the trek. Moreover, credit cards are rarely accepted so it is recommended to travel with enough Nepalese rupees. You can exchange your currency at the nearest exchange shops near your hotel area or at the airport.
Q17. Are there any alternative routes to Everest Base Camp Trek?
Yes, there are alternative routes and variations to the Everest Base Camp trek that offer different perspectives, landscapes, and experiences. Classic Everest Base Camp trek with a drive to Phaplu is one of the serene ways to approach EBC. One can also explore other delights of the Everest region by incorporating three high passes. Or one can simply add Gokyo Lake with the Everest Base Camp trek and enjoy the turquoise glacial lake and enthralling Cho La pass. Similarly, to taste the luxury of the mountains, you can simply check out our Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek. Our expert team at Escape Himalaya is available to share our valuable insights and assistance in planning your beautiful journey.
Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek: Your Essential Guide
Planning an EBC Heli Return Trek? Here are the Top 10 key things to know for an awesome adventure:
Season's Greetings: Pick the perfect time to go! Spring (March-May) and autumn (Sept-Nov) offer clear skies and stunning views.
Pack Smart: Travel light! Choose a comfortable backpack and pack only essentials for the changing weather.
Go at Your Own Pace: Don't rush! Enjoy the scenery and listen to your body. Slow and steady wins the race.
Train Like a Champ: Get in shape! Hiking at altitude requires some physical preparation.
Mind Over Mountain: Be prepared for challenges! A positive attitude goes a long way.
Fuel Your Hike: Eat healthy! Choose nutritious food to keep you energized throughout the trek.
Gear Up for Success: Dress for the elements! Pack clothes and footwear suitable for mountain weather.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water! Dehydration can be a problem at high altitudes.
Plan Your Path: Find the right itinerary! Choose a route that matches your experience and desired duration.
Respect the Locals: Be a good guest! Learn some basic Nepali phrases and be mindful of local customs.
Bonus Tip: Capture the memories! Take photos and videos to document your incredible journey.
Additional Cost Planning
Apart from the major costs of your EBC Heli Return Trek package, you will need to budget for certain additional fees. Here's a simple plan to help you budget while still having a good time:
Trail Necessities:
Hot Gas Showers: Tea houses may charge $5-7 for a warm shower, particularly at higher elevations.
Charging Electronics: Tea houses may allow you to charge your electronics for $3-5per hour by solar power. Bringing a portable charger is convenient.
Food & Treats:
Extra Meals: Depending on where you are, you may want to purchase more snacks or lunches, which cost between $5 and $12.
Drinks: Expect to spend $1-4 per bottle of water. Other drinks may be more expensive, so use a reusable bottle and filter your water to save money and prevent waste.
Staying Connected:
Wi-Fi: While many guest houses offer Wi-Fi, they provide Air-link & Everest-Link cards, typically costing 700-800 rupees for 24 hours. If you need internet access, consider downloading maps and entertainment ahead of time.
Remember that prices might vary, so use these estimates as a guideline.
Consider your spending patterns for drinks, snacks, and gifts.
Note: Carry Nepali Rupees for incidental expenses. While some tea shops accept US dollars, possessing the local currency eliminates conversion problems and ensures you have the correct amounts for smaller transactions.
By budgeting for these things, you'll be better prepared to deal with unexpected costs and enjoy your Annapurna Base Camp route!
Dining on the EBC Heli Return Trek: From Classic Favorites to Local Delights
Lunch and dinner on the Everest Base Camp Heli Return trek are a delicious adventure in themselves. Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali cuisine, is a popular choice among trekkers due to its low cost and high-calorie content. But the variety does not end there. Tea houses cater to a wide range of tastes, with classic dishes such as fried rice, chicken curries, and even burgers and pizzas. Noodle enthusiasts can have stir-fried noodles or cheesy pasta meals.
After a day of hiking, dinner becomes a joyous occasion, with tea houses broadening their menus to include a broader selection of familiar favorites as well as local specialties. So, whether you crave a hearty Dal Bhat or a soothing slice of pizza, the EBC short journey delivers a great and satisfying refill after each adventure-filled day.
Everest Base Camp Heli Trek Fundamentals:
Prepare for the EBC Heli Return Trek with our full package, carefully planned to keep you comfortable and prepared during the entire trip.
We provide a 120-liter Duffel Bag for trek packing, a certified -20°C Down Jacket, and a four-season Sleeping Bag, ensuring warmth and coziness during chilly mountain nights.
Trekking Duffel Bag
A duffle bag, also known as a kit bag is a cylindrical-shaped carrying bag having a top closure generally made of either natural fabric or other sturdy fabric (usually canvas). It has a handle or a shoulder strap to carry which makes it easy for the porter to carry it. Duffle bags are commonly used for traveling, sports, and outdoor activities or even for temporary storage. They are used for carrying clothing, personal items, and electronics or sports gear during travel. The size of the duffle bag varies according to one's needs and requirements. They come in different sizes from small bags to large travel duffle bags capable of holding required gear during travel. Generally, duffle bags are used to carry loads up to 15 kg in all trek which varies according to the size and materials to be carried during the travel, as well as the carrying limit of the porter. Duffle bags are suitable for trekking due to their comfort and accessibility as it is flexible and portable which makes them easy to carry. It is an excellent choice to carry for traveling due to its versatility and ease of handling.
Trekking Duffle Bag
We arrange the duffle bags that hold up to 120 liters of storage capacity and are also waterproof which helps in the rainy environment by protecting the materials inside the bag. Generally, these duffle bags are carried by the porter during the trek and you can carry a small or medium carrying bag for yourself to carry personal materials and gadgets with you. Please be assured that your luggage and suitcase will be securely managed and safeguarded at our hotel while you enjoy your trek and will promptly return to you once you complete your trek.
Down Jacket
A down jacket, also known as a puffer jacket is a quilted coat filled with soft feathers either from a duck or goose. Down jackets are more popular for cold climates and especially useful in mountains and higher altitudes. They are generally preferred by hikers, trekkers, and backpackers for being extremely comfortable due to their lightweight and compressibility making it easy to pack without occupying a lot of space. It has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, best for maintaining body heat essential for trekking in cold climates and higher altitudes.
It is also ideal for wearing and sleeping in during high-altitude treks, providing excellent insulation and good comfort. Please ensure to return it once the trek is completed so it can be preserved for the next adventures.
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags are essential gear for travelers and trekkers which provide good comfort and protection in various climatic conditions and altitudes. Most of our treks and tours require a sleeping bag as it keeps you warm by trapping the heat around you from your body.
The sleeping bags we use are mummy-shaped with a zip up and down that keeps the top tight around you. It is used in cold and wet climates in high altitudes( -20°C to -25°C maximum temperature) giving you protection, and comfort and as well it is also lightweight and compact which it easy to carry on long treks. The sleeping bag is returned after the trek as it helps us to maintain our gear for future adventurers.
At Escape Himalaya, we provide a detailed checklist of essential trekking gear, ensuring that you're fully equipped for your Himalayan adventure.
At Escape Himalaya, we provide a detailed checklist of essential trekking gear, ensuring that you're fully equipped for your Himalayan adventure.
HEAD
Sun Hat or Scarf
Lightweight Balaclava or Warm Fleece Hat
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Headband or ear covers
FEET
Thin, Lightweight Inner Socks
Thick, Warm Wool Hiking Socks
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Camp Shoes (Sneakers/Sandals)
Gaiters
Spare Laces
Microspikes
HANDS
Lightweight Gloves
Heavyweight Gloves or Mittens
Hand Warmers
LOWER BODY
Undergarments
Hiking Shorts
Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
Light & Expedition Weight Thermal Bottoms
Fleece Pants
Waterproof Shell Pants
ACCESSORIES
Backpack (30-50 LTR)
Headlamp
First Aid Kit
Large Plastic Bag
Trekking Poles
Water Bottle
Toiletries
Lip Balm
Water Purification Tablets
Dry Bags/Ziploc Bags
Earplugs
Guide and Porter
Chargers
Bag Covers
Raincoat
Personal Care Kit
Sunscreen
Moisturizer
Personal Hygiene Items
Wet Wipes
Tissues
Handwash
Blister Plasters
Portable Hand Sanitizer
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
Maps and Guides
Snacks/Energy Bars
Camera
Notebook/Pen
Prepare for your EBC Heli Return Trek with confidence, knowing that you have all the necessary gear and essentials to make your journey safe, comfortable, and memorable.