Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 11 Days

Passport & visa requirements

Visitors from all foreign countries (except Indian nationals) require an entry visa to enter Nepal. You must have a visa so that you can fulfill the trekking purpose completely. A 30-day visa sufficiently covers the trip duration for most of our packages.

It can be obtained at your local Nepalese Embassy or consulate, or on arrival from the airport in Kathmandu.

Keep in mind that some Asian and African nationalities are required to get a visa in advance. The best is to get the visa prior to your arrival to avoid delays at the airport. The visa is valid for 6 months.

On-Arrival Visa Fee:

Multiple entries 15 Days – 30 USD

Multiple entries 30 Days – 50 USD

Multiple entries 90 Days – 125 USD

Note: You must carry some cash (in US$ or other major currencies) to pay for the visa fee. Just be aware that traveler’s cheques are not accepted.

Click here to stay updated on any changes in rules and regulations.

Click here to download the online visa application.

Before coming here, don’t forget to check the validity of your passport is 6 months after your arrival in Nepal.

We suggest that you keep with you a photocopy of your passport, separate from the original, which comes in handy in case you lose your passport. Carrying your passport is mandatory during the trek you as it is required for internal flights.

Permits Required for Everest Base Camp Trek via Jiri

Access Nepal Tour and Treks will obtain all the permits for trekking on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about that part. The costs of permits are covered in your package cost, so no extra payment is required.

To move on a trek to Everest Base Camp via Jiri, you need to obtain two permits:

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit costs NPR 2,000 per person for four weeks and is available in Lukla or Monjo at the Sagarmatha National Park Counter. Keep your passport with you when applying for the permit, as it is the only document that proves your identity. It’s important to note that there are no alternative offices in Kathmandu that issue this permit.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit costs NPR 3,000 per person for foreign nationals, NPR 1,500 per person for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 per person for Nepalis. Children under ten years old can enter for free. You can obtain this permit at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or at the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Gate in Monjo.

Documents Required for Permits

To obtain the necessary permits for classic trekking to Everest Base Camp via Jiri, certain documents must be provided as part of the permit application process.

The application process involves following specific procedures and cannot be completed without submitting the required documents. Below is a list of the documents required for  Everest Base Camp permits:

• Valid passport with a minimum of six months’ validity
• Two passport-sized photographs
• Nepal entry visa

Accommodation on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Mostly, the accommodations during the Everest base camp trek will be mountain lodges run by local entrepreneurs. You’ll mostly get rooms that include two single beds with a mattress, warm blanket, and pillow each, accommodating two persons.

The best part is that the rooms in these areas are simple and clean. At some of the camps (Phakding, Namche, Lukla, and a few others), an attached bath with a hot shower is offered. All other camps feature common bathrooms.

Hot bucket showers may be available at some camps above Namche. At higher camps (like Gokyo and Gorakshep), although we would do our best to provide a separate room, you might have to manage in dormitory-style rooms, in case separate rooms are not available, especially during busy seasons.

Food Available on Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

The Everest Base Camp Trek with helicopter return package includes one course each of breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a cup of tea/coffee. Breakfast options include cereals (oat porridge, muesli, cornflakes, roasted barley or wheat flour), bread (toast, sandwiches), pancakes, eggs, and chapatti (Indian-styled wheat bread).

For lunch and dinner, you’ll be offered dal-bhat (staple Nepali food comprising a set of steamed rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup), hashbrowns, mashed potatoes, noodles, dumplings, spaghetti, soup, and pizza, among others.

You’ll get breakfast and dinner at the lodge/teahouse itself, where we’ll be staying overnight. We would stop at one of the teahouses to have lunch in between the day’s trek. Once the dinner is completed, some fruits will be provided to you.

For a sound health and fitness level, you can take the help of your guide as he/she can advise you on the best diet. If you have a special dietary requirement (vegetarian, vegan, food allergies, etc.), you’ve to tell your guide so that necessary arrangements can be made. For special or additional orders, you’ve to pay the price by yourself.

Not all the places on the trek have electricity facilities and proper refrigeration facilities. That’s why it is recommended for you to follow a vegetarian diet, because the meat available may not be fresh.

Drinking Water on The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

It is mandatory to drink plenty of water during the trek to keep yourself hydrated. Dehydration can cause various problems during the trek, such as fatigue, low energy, and other unpleasant experiences. The best is to drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water a day, especially during the daytime.

A water bottle must be carried along with some water purification pills. You can easily buy these items from any shop in and around Thamel. Refilling can be done either at the lodge. You may refill your bottles either at the lodge or at natural water sources. Lastly, don’t forget to purify it before drinking.

If available, you can also buy bottled water at the lodges where you stay. Please note that the cost of bottled water increases as you reach higher. It may cost from USD 1 to around USD 4 per 1-liter bottle.

How often do I drink water?

As soon as you wake up, drink half a liter of water on an empty stomach. During the trekking hours, you must drink water from your bottles in regular intervals as soon as your mouth is about to get dry.

Your water intake while trekking should be 1.5 to 2 liters. Having regular sips of water at key stops is crucial.

Nepalese Currency for personal (extra) expenses

Some extra cash needs to be carried for personal expenses. It is best to carry the cash in Nepalese rupees to get a fair exchange rate. We recommend that you carry cash in Nepalese rupees equivalent to USD 15 to 20 per person, per day.

Health and Safety Concerns While on The Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

We, Access Nepal Tours and Treks, put trekkers’ safety as our utmost priority. As you ascend higher, the altitude sickness risks also go higher (also, Acute Mountain Sickness). Thereby, you must strictly follow certain safety guidelines to make your journey a pleasant and rewarding one.

Even the itinerary itself includes 2 days of rest and acclimatization to allow your body sufficient rest. We’ve also set the average walking hours to 5-7 hours a day, which is fair enough.

Furthermore, we do take extra precautions to prevent any health issues during and after the trek. Our experienced trekking guides are also trained in ‘Mountain sickness and first aid’, so they well and truly know how to act in troubling scenarios.

Pre-trek Check-up

One of the key steps before walking on the Everest path is to get yourself medically examined. If any serious health concerns are found, then trekking can be tougher than usual. Thereby, make sure you are cleared or green signaled by your doctor to go on this trip.

If you have a special medical condition like asthma or other sorts of allergies, then you should inform us ahead of the journey. This way, we can plan the whole trek accordingly.

How to Prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?

Physical fitness

Although the trek is not technically challenging, prior experience of an altitude hike/trek is preferred. A good level of mental and physical fitness needs to be developed and maintained. It is advisable to train your body at least two months prior to the trek with cardiovascular workouts.

Practice hikes with a pack of weight roughly equivalent to your actual pack would be really helpful. While on trek, do not let your determination wither, and maintain a positive attitude at all times.

Altitude Sickness on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness can be triggered in high altitudes (generally higher than 2400m/7874ft) where there is less oxygen than in lower altitudes. It attacks people when ascending to a higher height, especially in a short duration, without letting the body adapt and adjust to the new temperature.

Usually, the symptoms take in and around 6 hours to a few days to develop. These include severe,  headache, coughing, pressure in the chest, shortness of breath even while at rest, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite, etc.

The illness may cause a medical emergency, especially when the condition worsens to High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE).

What To Do:

• Drink a lot of water; staying hydrated is a must.
• Eat properly, at least a light meal, soup, or something else.
• Listen to your guide’s instructions and regularly examine your body’s responses to the cold and altitude.
• Proper rest and acclimatization are key.
• Don’t smoke and drink.
• Avoid strenuous exercise.
• Take a first aid kit containing medication.
• Medication like Diamox may be taken ahead of the trek upon consultation with your physician.

What Not To Do:

• Walk slowly and steadily at your own pace; no need to hurry.
• Do not overcommit yourself, which might risk altitude sickness or injury.
• Don’t roam here and there without asking your guide.
• Do not skip your meals.

Environment, Local Culture, and Lifestyle

A major section of the trekking region falls under the protected area of Sagarmatha National Park – home to floral and faunal life, including endangered species. Trekkers are expected to be responsible and adhere to the rules and regulations of the national park. Access Nepal promotes and encourages environment-friendly practices.

All our actions and practices while traveling are based on respect and care for the environment. Responsible disposition of waste, minimizing the disturbance while traveling, and preserving the trees and shrubs are a must.

Nepal is a country of diverse cultures, religions, and ethnicities. Although small in area, the people have a variety of their own unique set of cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. In the Everest region, the Sherpas form the majority of the inhabitants.

The Sherpas originated from Tibet and have made Everest their home since the 15^th century. They are a spiritual, hardworking people, also famous for their warm hospitality and joyful nature.

Buddhism is the major religion here. The vivid monasteries and skillfully crafted mani walls (rocks or stone walls with Buddhist prayers etched on them) are apparent instances of the rich art of the Sherpas. The local monasteries are the heart of the Sherpa communities.

Lhosar is the major festival that marks the beginning of a new year, observed during the month of February. Mani Rimdu is an equally important festival that falls in the ninth month of the Tibetan Calendar year, corresponding to October (or November).

It involves ritualistic masked dances, songs, communal gatherings, and the enactment of legendary stories along with merry feasts. Although the Sherpas are known by the world as skilled mountaineers, not every Sherpa is a mountaineer or a trekking guide.

While visiting the communities within the trekking regions, trekkers are expected to be sensitive and respectful towards the local culture. Keep an eye out for instructions with regard to common etiquette.

For instance: leaving your shoes outside sacred areas like monasteries, temples, and other shrines, maintaining decent clothing, and taking care of physical gestures with women of the community. While the locals are friendly and may not openly object to such actions, it is our duty to be alert to them.

Electricity and Charging of your devices on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Some of the lodges (in more remote areas) are powered by solar panels, and the energy supply is limited. You may be required to pay a minimum price (USD 1 to 3 per full charge) for charging the cellphones and other electronic devices, which will be directly collected by the lodge owner.

Internet Services on the Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Local mobile network operators like Ncell and NTC offer limited coverage along the Everest Base Camp heli trek. You can avail of a local SIM for as low as NRs. 100 (less than 1 USD) with limited validity and internet data volume.

On average, NRs. 100 to 500 would take care of your internet usage for the duration of the trip. Internet via the SIM network generally works fairly well at Lukla, Namche, and Gorakshep.

If you’re not taking the local SIM, you can buy Everest link cards at Lukla or Namche for internet connection with fair coverage at the teahouses in Lukla, Namche, and a few others. It would cost you around USD 10.

Additional/Special Gear for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek

For trekking at high altitudes, it is essential to have a good-quality sleeping bag and down jacket to handle the temperature drop. It is recommended that the gear have a minimum temperature rating of -15 °C (5°F).

Access Nepal Tour and Treks provides the opportunity to borrow a high-quality sleeping bag and down jacket at no cost, (included in the package) with ratings up to -20 °C (68°F). The equipment is carefully inspected for quality and cleaned after each use.

Kindly inform us ahead of time after you have made your travel arrangements with us so we can organize one for you. Additionally, please ensure that you return them when you have completed your trek.

Stay with the group

Always travel in a group. The guide will aim to stay close to everyone. However, if some individuals happen to walk at a quicker pace than others, he/she will alternate their walking with the participants.

Meanwhile, the remaining members of the group will be accompanied by the porter(s) or an assistant guide if the group is larger.

Travel Insurance for the Everest Base Camp Heli Trek

To ensure a safe and secure trekking experience to the  Everest Base Camp via Jiri, it is highly recommended to obtain travel insurance. As you embark on your journey, you may face various challenges like altitude sickness, harsh weather, accidents, and flight cancellations.

By purchasing travel insurance, you will have coverage in case of any unforeseen events and enjoy a worry-free trekking adventure. Specialist travel insurance would be required to guarantee you are adequately insured.

In addition to covering medical expenses and trip cancellation, please ensure that all activities and destinations in the itinerary are included in your policy, specifically mountaineering or alpinism. Coverage in the event of emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, and hospitalization in case of injury or death is mandatory.

At Access Nepal Tour and Treks, we recommend that you do your own research to select the insurance company. A valid proof of your insurance certificate should be brought along during the trek.

While we don’t have any affiliations with insurance providers, we’re happy to offer advice and assistance if you need help understanding your insurance policies or selecting an insurer.

Please note that the insurance policy is a contract between you and the insurance company, and we cannot be held responsible for any dispute between you and your insurance company. Failure to provide proof of insurance may prevent you from joining your program, and you wouldn’t be eligible for a refund.

Rescue/Evacuation Situation

In the case of a rescue or evacuation, your guide will manage the situation in cooperation with the base office. Should an evacuation be necessary, helicopter services will be contacted right away.

However, due to new regulatory changes, rescue helicopters can only respond to a distress call after the client’s insurance company has provided a Guarantee of Payment (GOP).

Therefore, it is essential to bring a summary of your insurance policy that includes the policy number and relevant details, along with the 24/7 Specialty Assistance helpline number. Please ensure you provide us with your insurance policy information prior to starting the trek.

Unforeseen conditions (Possible change in the itinerary)

We strive to follow the itinerary outlined above as closely as possible, but we cannot guarantee its exact adherence.

The conditions in the remote areas of the Himalayas can be unpredictable and subject to unexpected weather fluctuations and natural events. Thus, it makes the existing trails potentially unsafe and could also impact the trekkers’ health.

In the event of any emergencies resulting from the reasons mentioned or other circumstances, we kindly ask that you respect any decisions made by your team leader (guide) that prioritize your safety. We sincerely request your full cooperation if such a situation should occur.

Transportation on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Access Nepal Tour and Treks arranges for your transportation to the trek start and end points as part of the package services. A private car with a professional driver is arranged for the transfers.

Flight Delays

Kindly note that the weather condition of both Kathmandu and Lukla is taken into consideration before all Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flights are given the green signal. Delays of a few hours and even cancellations due to unsafe weather conditions and visibility are not uncommon.

We request your patience in such circumstances. However, if possible, we can arrange for helicopter services if you are willing to pay for the extra cost. We recommend that you arrange for at least a few extra days before your return flight.

In the event of the flight being canceled prior to your trip, we will make arrangements for extra nights of accommodation in a hotel in Kathmandu for as many days as needed, the additional costs to be borne by the client.

If the unfavorable condition persists to the extent of affecting your trekking, you are welcome to select an alternative package in other areas of Nepal.

Please read: Current arrangements for your Lukla flights and Ramechhap Airport blogs.

Luggage Capacity for domestic flight

The baggage capacity for the domestic flight will be 15 kg in total, i.e.

Luggage – 10 Kg

Hand carry – 5 kg

Climate and Best Time to Visit The Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Although it is possible to complete the Everest Base Camp trek via Jiri at any time of the year, the ideal periods to do so are from March to May and late September to November, when the weather conditions are typically more favorable.

During these months, the skies are usually clear, featuring bright sunny days, which create perfect conditions for trekking. Daytime temperatures typically vary from 15°C to 20°C, whereas nighttime temperatures can plummet to as low as -15°C.

However, the weather at higher altitudes can be quite variable, and conditions can become very cold and windy. It is advisable to steer clear of the monsoon season from June to August, as trails may become slippery and dangerous, and visibility is often hampered by clouds and fog.

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Price

The exact price for the Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return depends on various factors. Here are some of these factors:

• Itinerary (No of days)
• Group size
• Type of accommodation and services
• Time of the year

Normally, the cost of the Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return ranges from USD 2,250 to USD 4,000 per person. Our 11-day Everest base camp heli trek comes up at an affordable price of USD 3490, covering all the essential services for you. We emphasize providing unparalleled service and care throughout the journey.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Price

Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour price can be different for a solo or a group-based tour. If it’s a group tour, the number of people in the group also determines the price. Group tours generally cost you USD 1200-USD 1350 per person. While the private tours can cost you around USD 5000 for a single person.

Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return (11 days)

Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter return mixes both adventure and comfort at the same time. This 11-day journey is created for those who want to get a close experience of the world’s highest mountain, Mt Everest.

Main Highlights of This Trek:

• Stay in some of the top-class lodges or finest teahouses of the Everest region.
• A wide variety of cuisines are on offer.
• Experienced, local guide and availability of porter assistance.
• Personalized attention and safety.
• Availability of Wi-Fi connection and hot showers.
• Exciting helicopter return

Why Book this Trek with Access Nepal Tour and Trekking?

• Local Knowledge and Expertise: Our team, based entirely in Nepal, possesses extensive knowledge of the Everest region and other trekking paths alike.
• Highly-Experienced Guides: We offer guides who are not only highly experienced and government-certified but also proficient in English.
• Permit Coverage: We handle all necessary permits for you, including the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
• Full Safety: We ensure a safe trekking experience through quick assistance, organized emergency plans, and informative sessions on altitude sickness.
• Pre-arranged Accommodation: Our connections with local teahouses allow us to secure your lodgings, providing a comfortable trekking experience.
• Flexible Itineraries: We offer customizable routes that cater to your walking speed, fitness level, and travel schedule.
• 24/7 Field Support: You will receive continuous assistance and support throughout your trek.

Steps to Book the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

The booking procedure for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is quite easy. You will find package details on the right side, along with a Book Now button. Click this button to be taken to the booking process.

To secure your booking, you need to make an advance payment of 10% of the total trip cost. Once the initial installment is paid, your reservation will be confirmed. The second payment is required within 24 hours before your arrival.

We accept payments via wire transfer and card/online methods. If you’re all set to book the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek, follow this link: Book Everest Base Camp Heli Trek for the booking procedure.