10-Day Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return: The Ultimate Guide

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, and a Bold Himalaya representative will receive you there. They will bring you to your hotel. Kathmandu is indeed the city where centuries’ old customs come mixed with city-urbanity!

Once you are all settled into your hotel, do a walk around some of the amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (the “Monkey Temple”) or holy Pashupatinath Temple, or a walk around ancient Durbar Squares.  Or if you are including an extra day in Kathmandu, simply take a guided tour of all the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley – each one filled with history and architecture in itself! Evening welcome dinner at a nearby Nepali restaurant and meet your guide who will present a briefing on tomorrow’s adventure. Good night – tomorrow is the start of the actual trek!

On the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek, your adventure begins with an early morning scenic flight from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Lukla (2,840m), the gateway to the Everest region. During the 45-minute flight, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, so try to secure a seat on the left side of the plane for the best panorama. Upon landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, your professional Sherpa crew will greet you and assist with luggage as you begin the gentle trek to Phakding (2,610m).

The trek follows the east bank of the Dudh Koshi River, winding through lush rhododendron forests and charming Sherpa villages, with your first thrilling suspension bridge crossing marking the start of your Khumbu trekking experience. The descent to Phakding helps your body adjust to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness while allowing you to enjoy the serene mountain environment.

In the evening, you will stay at Namaste Lodge or a similar Sherpa-run teahouse, where cozy accommodations, local hospitality, and the soothing sounds of the river create the perfect setting to relax. Here, you can watch the sunset over the Himalayan peaks, sit by a warm campfire, and soak in the stories of fellow trekkers, all while preparing for the journey ahead. Today’s trek covers approximately 7.8 km in 3–4 hours, making it an ideal start to your Everest Base Camp adventure.

Today marks an exciting step deeper into the Everest region trekking adventure as you leave Phakding and enter the heart of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique Himalayan landscapes, flora, and wildlife. The trail winds through charming Sherpa villages like Bengkar, Monjo, and Jorsale, where you can observe traditional stone houses, prayer flags, mani walls, and vibrant local culture. Trekkers will cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, while enjoying the serene sounds of glacial water and the panoramic views of surrounding mountains.

This section features moderate to steep ascents and short descents, perfect for acclimatization on the Everest Base Camp trek, as your body adjusts to higher altitudes. Along the way, the breathtaking peaks of Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and Tawache dominate the skyline, offering excellent photography opportunities for Everest trekking enthusiasts. You’ll pass through the Sagarmatha National Park entry checkpoint, where trekking permits are verified, and continue along level trails before tackling the final climb toward Namche Bazaar.

Namche Bazaar, often called the gateway to Everest, is a bustling Sherpa town with colorful markets, cozy teahouses, and panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. It’s the perfect spot to rest, enjoy local Nepali cuisine, and immerse yourself in Sherpa culture. The combination of high-altitude trekking, Himalayan scenery, cultural exploration, and adventure tourism makes this day a highlight for all Everest Base Camp trek itineraries.

This day’s “rest day” in Namche will not be spent lounging around! In a bid to acclimatize your body to the thinner high-altitude air, you’ll hike up part of the way to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), and you’ll be rewarded with utterly stunning panoramic vistas of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku that will leave you excited.

Keep your eyes open on the drive – you might see some free-roaming Himalayan Thars (mountain goats) or beautiful Danphe pheasants (Nepal’s national bird). Another treasure is a stop at the Sherpa Culture Museum to learn about great mountaineers like Tenzing Norgay and the observation of the Tenzing-Hillary statue to honor the first people to reach the summit of Everest.

Afternoon: Explore Namche’s lively market where villagers and Tibetan merchants exchange yak cheese to handicrafts. Optional short strolls to nearby viewpoints such as Thamo or Khunde allow you to enjoy even more stunning mountain vistas.

This day is essential for acclimatization, giving your body time to adjust to higher altitudes while also offering unique cultural and natural experiences. After a day of gentle exploration, you’ll return to Namche for a restful evening, ready for the adventures ahead.

Today, you’ll leave the bustling Namche Bazaar behind and follow a scenic ridge that seems to stretch endlessly, offering breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Every step brings you closer to the heart of the Khumbu region, where nature and culture meet in perfect harmony.

As you descend briefly into the Dudh Koshi Valley at Phungi Thenga, you’ll cross a traditional suspension bridge and witness the rugged beauty of the Himalayas. Then begins the steady climb toward Tengboche village, where one of the most famous sites on the Everest Base Camp trek awaits.

Tengboche Monastery – A Cultural Gem

Nestled against the snow-capped peaks, Tengboche Monastery is the largest and most revered monastery in the Everest region. Here, you might hear the rhythmic chanting of monks, “Om Mani Padme Hum,” and witness a vibrant Buddhist ritual, giving you a rare glimpse into the spiritual life of the Sherpa people.

From the monastery, the view of Ama Dablam, Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Nuptse, and Mount Lobuche is simply unforgettable – a photographer’s dream and a perfect spot to soak in the majestic Himalayas.

Evening & Overnight

As the sun dips behind the mountains, watch Ama Dablam glow golden, a memory that will stay with you long after your trek. Tonight, you’ll rest in a cozy teahouse in Tengboche, warmed by a wood fire and surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

Optional: If you prefer, you can descend to Deboche village for your overnight stay.

Tips: Even though today’s trek is moderate, keep your pace slow. Tengboche is higher than Namche, so stay hydrated and listen to your body. The ridge and monastery offer some of the best photo opportunities on the Everest trek – carry your camera ready.

Wake up to the magical Himalayan sunrise, as golden light bathes Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse – a sight that will stay etched in your memory. After breakfast, descend from Tengboche through lush rhododendron, juniper, and fir forests, before the landscape opens into rolling alpine meadows and terraced fields.

You’ll cross the Imja Khola River and arrive at Pangboche, the highest permanent Sherpa village in the Khumbu region. Here, take time to explore the ancient Pangboche Monastery, famous for its Yeti legends, sacred relics, and centuries-old Buddhist artifacts. The monastery is a spiritual highlight and offers a glimpse into Sherpa culture and Himalayan traditions.

Continuing the trek, the environment gradually shifts: forests thin out, giving way to rocky terrain and dry alpine landscapes. Keep your eyes open for grazing yaks, whose bells create a gentle, authentic Himalayan melody. You’ll pass through small settlements like Shomare and Orsho, experiencing the beauty of mountain meadows and yak herder communities.

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Dingboche, a peaceful village surrounded by the awe-inspiring peaks of Island Peak, Lhotse, Cholatse, and Ama Dablam. The village is a perfect place to rest and acclimatize, as you are now above 4,000 meters – higher than most European summits. Dingboche’s serene setting provides a complete contrast to the bustling atmosphere of Namche Bazaar, letting you truly absorb the Himalayan tranquility.

Tips: Dingboche is a high-altitude village; drink plenty of water and take it slow. Consider a short acclimatization hike to nearby ridges. Capture the sunrise over Ama Dablam and Everest – one of the best photo opportunities on the trek.

Today, your journey takes you deep into the Himalayan backcountry, above the tree line, where the landscape transitions into rugged, alpine terrain. Starting with a steady climb above Dingboche, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Khumbu Valley and the surrounding majestic peaks.

The trail gradually becomes more barren as you approach Thukla (Dughla), a small rest spot at the base of the vast Khumbu Glacier. Take a moment to admire the Khumbu Glacier’s icefalls and moraines, where massive chunks of ice groan and shift in the sunlight.

From Thukla, you’ll ascend the steep path to Thukla Pass (4,900m). Here, you’ll encounter memorials and chortens dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Mount Everest, including tributes to Scott Fischer and Babu Chiri Sherpa. These Everest memorial sites are a solemn reminder of the mountain’s challenges and are a must-see for trekkers.

After paying respects, the trail follows the rim of the Khumbu Glacier, leading to Lobuche, a tiny village surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. From Lobuche, you can enjoy views of Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar, and the glacier-carved moraines. Tonight, rest in a local teahouse, soaking in the Himalayan wilderness and icy alpine vistas.

Tip: This trek day is a stepping stone to Everest Base Camp. It’s as much about mental and physical acclimatization as it is about reaching Lobuche. Encourage trekkers to take photos, journal, or meditate – these moments above 4,900m are once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Today is the day every trekker dreams of – standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. You’ll wake up early in Lobuche and set off through the rugged, otherworldly landscape of the Khumbu Glacier. Ice walls tower above you, and deep crevasses cut the trail, a humbling reminder of nature’s power in the Himalayas.

As you reach Gorak Shep (5,170m / 16,961ft), the last outpost of civilization, the excitement builds. After a short rest, you’ll continue the steep, rocky path to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,594ft). Every step is a mix of thrill and awe as colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind, and the surrounding peaks – Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam – rise majestically around you. Here, the Khumbu Icefall whispers stories of daring climbers, while the small tents of expeditions remind you of the human spirit that challenges these heights.

Standing at EBC, taking in the panorama, and signing the logbook is a moment of pure triumph. Every mile trekked, every breath of thin Himalayan air, has led to this incredible achievement. As you descend back to Gorak Shep to rest, your heart is full, your eyes wide with memories you’ll carry forever.

Highlights of the Day:

• Trek the breathtaking Khumbu Glacier and moraine paths.

• Reach Gorak Shep, the last Himalayan settlement before EBC.

• Stand at the legendary Everest Base Camp.

• Witness the Khumbu Icefall and climbing expedition tents.

• Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

Your final sunrise in the Himalayas begins early as you leave Gorak Shep in the darkness, hiking up to the legendary Kala Patthar (5,545m / 18,192 ft). Every breath is a challenge at this extreme altitude, but the reward is breathtaking 360-degree views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and the Khumbu Glacier. The golden rays on Everest’s summit are unforgettable, making this moment one of the most iconic in the world of trekking.

After absorbing the spectacular sunrise and panoramic mountain vistas, you descend back to Gorak Shep for a hearty breakfast. Then comes the dream finale: a helicopter ride to Kathmandu. Within minutes, you soar above the entire Everest region, witnessing glaciers, towering peaks, and the trail you just conquered from a bird’s-eye view – a perspective that would take days on foot to experience.

Landing in Kathmandu, your guide will escort you to your hotel. The day is free for relaxing or exploring the city, with opportunities to visit cultural sites in the Kathmandu Valley. In the evening, celebrate your epic journey with the presentation of your Everest Base Camp Trek certificate, marking a truly unforgettable achievement.

Traveler Notes / Tips:

• The hike to Kala Patthar is steep and challenging; pace yourself carefully.
• Layered clothing and sun protection are essential for the early-morning climb.
• Stay hydrated at high altitude and move slowly to avoid fatigue.

Note:

• If you prefer to skip Kala Patthar, the helicopter can take you back to Kathmandu earlier, potentially around 7 AM, which can help reduce costs.
• Another option is to fly directly from Gorak Shep or Lukla instead of Kala Patthar, which shortens the trip and may lower overall expenses.
• Timing will be flexible depending on your choice, and your guide will help plan accordingly.

It is your last day of your amazing Everest experience, but memories will be for life! Depending on your itinerary, utilize the airport as your home base or extend your Himalayan journey by embarking on another trek – maybe the tough Three Passes Trek, breathtaking turquoise Gokyo Lakes, or even Island Peak for a 6,000m climb experience!

If you have time to spare before you leave, explore the sights of Kathmandu or do some shopping for souvenirs in the busy streets of Thamel. Others congregate in a send-off feast, recalling photos and stories of their Everest experience. Wherever you are headed, home or on to more adventures, you’ve done something very special – you’ve stood at the base of the world’s highest mountain!