Everest Base Camp Heli Tour

Quick Overview

• Difficulty Level: Medium
• Best Months: Jan - Apr and Sep - Dec
• Maximum Elevation: 5,545m

Introduction

Everest Heli Tour – A Tour to the base camp of the World’s highest mountain, Mt Everest is a dream trip for every adventure lover. Trekking to the Everest Base Camp for 14-15 days might be exhausting or you might not have enough time for a long trek, so we have planned an Everest Heli Tour which will take you close to the beautiful gem of Nepal, Mount Everest, and Everest Base Camp. This helicopter tour takes you to the Everest View Hotel, Kalapathar, and Everest Base Camp from where you can witness the spectacular views of snow-clad mountains like Nuptse, Lhotse, Changtse, and Everest along with other natural beauties. You'll fly over the high mountains, green hills, Sherpa and Gurung settlements, terrains, and colorful forests of the Khumbu region. It takes 4-hours of continuous flight to arrive at the base camp of mighty Everest.

We start this Heli tour package with an amazing flight from Tribhuvan International Airport. Our first stop will be Lukla for fueling where you can witness the first glimpse of Mt. Everest. Then we fly across Namche Bazar, Syngoche, Tengboche, and finally at Everest Base Camp. This trek is the best opportunity to experience the mountain environment and Sherpa Culture in a short time. Our final tour will be to Kalapattar (5545m) which offers the best view of Mt Everest (8,848m), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m), Choyu (8,201 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Lhotse (8,516 m). Finally, our Everest Heli tour comes to an end after your tour to the Kala Patthar, we fly back to Kathmandu in a Helicopter.

Trip Highlights

• Amazing Himalayan view
• Thrilling flight over snow-clad mountains
• Kathmandu World Heritage Sites Tour
• Everest Base Camp
• Tour to Kala Patthar

Best Season to do the Everest base camo with Heli back 

The best season to do Everest basecamp with Hei back  Trek in Nepal is during the months of September to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is typically clear and dry, with blue skies and good visibility. This makes it the ideal time to enjoy the stunning mountain views and landscapes along the trek.

September to November is the peak trekking season in the region and offers the best weather conditions for trekking, as well as the opportunity to see the vibrant harvest festival of Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights.

March to May is also a good time to trek, as the weather starts to clear up after the winter months and the Rhododendron forests along the trail are in full bloom, adding an extra burst of color to the already stunning scenery.

It is important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and can change quickly, so it is always recommended to be prepared for changing conditions. Additionally, trekkers should be aware that the Gokyo Lakes trek is considered a challenging trek, and proper acclimatization and physical fitness are necessary to complete the trek successfully.
 

Vegetation in Everest region:

The vegetation in the Everest region of Nepal varies with altitude and ranges from subtropical to alpine. At lower elevations, the forest is lush and tropical, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. As the altitude increases, the vegetation becomes sparser and more alpine, with only a few hardy plants able to survive in harsh conditions.

In the subtropical zone, which ranges from 1,200 to 2,400 meters, the forests are dense and diverse, with a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, bamboo, and ferns. Some of the common species found in this zone include oak, magnolia, rhododendron, and Ficus.

In the temperate zone, which ranges from 2,400 to 3,800 meters, the vegetation becomes more sparse, with fewer trees and more shrubs, grasses, and alpine plants. The forest is dominated by pine and juniper, with understory shrubs such as rhododendron, azalea, and hemlock.

Above 3,800 meters, the vegetation becomes alpine and is dominated by mosses, lichens, and small shrubs, as well as high-altitude flowers such as edelweiss and primula. This vegetation is well adapted to the harsh conditions of the high mountains, where temperatures are low, winds are strong, and sunlight is scarce.

It is important to note that the high-altitude ecosystem in the Everest region is delicate and vulnerable, and trekkers and mountaineers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and minimize their impact on the environment. Additionally, some areas of the region have been designated as protected areas, such as Sagarmatha National Park, to conserve the unique ecosystem and wildlife.

Experience of Lukla Flight During the Everest basecamp and Heli back

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region of Nepal, is often referred to as one of the most exhilarating and unforgettable experiences of a trekker's journey. The flight takes approximately 35 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the lush green valleys below.

The flight to Lukla is operated by small, twin-engine aircraft, which can accommodate a maximum of 20 passengers. The journey starts with a scenic flight over the sprawling city of Kathmandu and the lush green hills surrounding it, before entering the mountain airspace and flying over the peaks of the Himalayas. The views from the aircraft are simply breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and rolling hills spreading out below.

The landing at Lukla airport is one of the highlights of the flight, and is often referred to as the "most dangerous airport in the world." The airport is situated on a narrow, sloping runway, surrounded by steep cliffs and towering peaks, and requires a skilled pilot to navigate the challenging approach and landing. Despite the challenges, Lukla Airport has an excellent safety record, and the flight is considered safe for most travelers.

Once you arrive in Lukla, you'll be surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and the vibrant culture of the Sherpa people. The bustling town of Lukla is the starting point for many popular treks in the region, including the Gokyo Lake trek, and offers a range of accommodation and dining options, as well as gear and supplies for trekkers.

The flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu is equally exciting and offers a final glimpse of the stunning mountain landscapes before returning to the hustle and bustle of the city. The memories of the flight and the experience of being in the heart of the Himalayas will stay with you long after your journey is over.

In conclusion, the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is an unforgettable experience and an essential part of any trek in the Everest region. The breathtaking views, the thrill of the landing, and the chance to experience the vibrant culture and mountain landscapes of Nepal make the flight an experience not to be missed. Despite the challenges and potential risks, the flight is considered safe for most travelers and offers an unforgettable introduction to the heart of the Himalayas.

Physical Requirements

The trek is a moderate to challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and mental preparation. The trek involves several long days of hiking at high altitudes, with some steep inclines and descents, so it is important to be in good physical condition before embarking on the journey. Some of the physical requirements for the Everest base camp with Heli back Trek are:

1.   Endurance:  The trek involves several long days of hiking, with some days covering over 6 hours of continuous walking. It is important to have good endurance and be able to walk for long periods of time, especially at high altitude, where the air is thin and exertion can be more challenging.

2.  Cardiovascular Fitness: The trek involves hiking at high altitude, with some steep inclines and descents, so it is important to have good cardiovascular fitness, with a strong heart and lungs, to help you cope with the demands of the trek.

3.  Strong Legs: The trek involves hiking on rough and uneven terrain, so it is important to have strong legs, especially your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles, to help you maintain stability and balance while walking.

4.  Good Balance: The trek involves walking on narrow and steep paths, with some loose and slippery sections, so it is important to have good balance and be comfortable walking on challenging terrain.

5.  Altitude Acclimatization: The Gokyo Lake Trek reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters, so it is important to be prepared for the effects of high altitude, including symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. It is important to allow sufficient time for altitude acclimatization and to take it slow and steady as you gain altitude.

Overall, it is a challenging but rewarding experience, and if you are in good physical condition and mentally prepared, you can expect to have a fantastic time on the trek. If you have any concerns about your physical fitness or health, it is always advisable to consult with a doctor before embarking on the trek.

Useful Information

1.   Best time to go: The best time to trek in the Gokyo Lake region is from September to November and from March to May, when the weather is clear and the visibility is good.

2.    Trekking route: The trek starts in Lukla and takes you through the villages of Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo, before reaching the high point of the trek at Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters).

3. Trekking distance: The total distance of the trek is approximately 50-60 km, depending on the route and itinerary.

4.   Accommodation:  During the trek, you will be staying in tea houses or lodges, which provide basic accommodation and meals.

5.   Physical fitness: A good level of physical fitness is required for the Gokyo Lake trek, as you will be trekking for several hours each day and gaining altitude.

6.     Altitude: The Gokyo Lake trek takes you to an altitude of up to 5,357 meters, so it is important to allow sufficient time for acclimatization and to take any necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.

7.    Equipment:  Essential equipment for the Gokyo Lake trek includes warm clothing, good-quality walking shoes, a sleeping bag, and a down jacket. A first-aid kit, a headlamp, and a water bottle are also recommended.

8.   Permits: To trek in the Gokyo Lake region, you will need to obtain a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and a Sagarmatha National Park permit.

9.     Guides and porters: Hiring a guide and porter is recommended, as they will provide valuable local knowledge, help you navigate the route, and carry your equipment.

Food  and Accommodation during the Everest basecamp trek  Heli back :

Accommodation during the Everest Base Camp Trek and Heli back is typically in basic tea houses or lodges. These facilities offer basic dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms and sometimes offer hot showers for an additional fee. Many of the tea houses also serve meals, which usually consist of traditional Nepalese and Tibetan dishes, such as dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momos (dumplings), and various types of noodle soup. Most trekkers will also have the opportunity to purchase snacks, energy bars, and other food items along the way. Some of the tea houses offer more comfortable and better-equipped rooms for a higher price, and it's recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak trekking season from September to November. It's important to note that the quality of accommodation and food can vary greatly along the trek, but trekkers can expect basic and functional facilities in most places.

Trek Difficulty

The trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and preparation. The trek involves several days of hiking at high altitudes, with some steep inclines and descents, and reaching a maximum altitude of 5,550 meters at the top of the Kalapather itself is a steep and challenging climb.

The conditions on the trek can be challenging, with cold temperatures, strong winds, and potential for snow and ice, especially at higher altitudes. Trekkers should be prepared for the effects of high altitude, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue, and should allow sufficient time for acclimatization.

In conclusion, the trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and preparation and is best suited for experienced trekkers and hikers who are comfortable with long days of hiking and challenging terrain. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences, the EBC and heli back to Kathmandu trek is an unforgettable adventure that provides a truly rewarding experience for those who undertake it.