EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK WITH CHOPPER RETURN
EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK WITH CHOPPER RETURN
This 12-day Everest Base Camp trek (5364m) will take you to the place where Sir Edmund Hillary (New Zealand) and Tenzing Norgay (Nepal) planned their celebrated climb to the top of the world’s tallest mountain - Mt. Everest (8848m). This is your opportunity to step back in time and stand in a place where two mountaineers came up with a plan and waited to climb the world’s highest peak. A highlight of this trek is the helicopter flight from Gorakshep back to Kathmandu – probably the best way to view the Himalayan Mountains. You will also be trekking within the UNESCO and World Heritage-listed Sagamartha National Park. On the trail, you will visit the renowned Tengboche Monastery where you have views of Mt. Everest, as well as several other 8000-meter plus peaks like Lhotse (8516m) and Makalu (8463m). This trek takes you up to Mt. Kala Patthar (5643m) which is the closest viewpoint of Mt. Everest and other snow-covered Himalayan peaks. It is thought to be the best place in Nepal for views of this legendary mountain. At EBC you can see the Khumbu Glacier as it descends down the slope of Everest.
The trails take you through gorges, lush forests and across mountains before you arrive at EBC. There will be enough time allocated to allow you to acclimatize before heading higher. As you trek through numerous villages in the Khumbu region you will have a first-hand look of what the villagers have to tolerate to survive in these mountains, and also how their devout Tibetan Buddhist faith enriches and affects their lives.
The mountains appear so close that you feel that you can literally reach out and touch them! Four of the tallest mountains in the world are in this area.
Your scenic flight into Lukla and your helicopter flight from Gokyo will highlight the broad range of the Himalayan Mountains. On the return helicopter flight to Kathmandu, you will have a new admiration for these mountains after having trekked across mountain trails and through valleys to reach EBC. This trek will please nature-lovers and those who have a desire to visit a place that in 1953 history was made.
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking (Est.1977) have been taking trekkers and climbers into the Himalayan Mountains for a very long time and leave nothing to chance, taking all precautions for a safe trek – except the weather that is in the hands of the gods! We have a first-class reputation and will do our best to see that this is a journey to be remembered.
All permits, meals and accommodation on this trek will be provided by Sherpa Expedition & Trekking.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel (1,350m)
Welcome to Kathmandu, a city full of vibrant markets, bustling streets, colorful temples, and grand pagodas. Our guide will meet you at the airport and take you to our hotel. The remainder of the day you will have an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the shopping areas closest to your hotel and catch up on shopping for equipment. In the evening, our tour guide will give you a brief introduction and provide valuable information about the trek
Day 2 : Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.
Today we visit many historical and well-known sites in Kathmandu. Our guide will take you to the famous Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world: The pagoda-shaped temple of Lord Shiva is visited by thousands of people every year. We will also visit the Boudhanath Stupa a place where pilgrims – both Buddhist and Hindu. This is one of the major Buddhist shrines in the world. Another place we visit is the famous Swoyambhunath Temple – also known as the monkey temple. Finally, we get to see the well known Durbar Square with its unique architecture and temples.
Day 3 : Fly to Lukla (2,804m) & trek to Phakding (2,640m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
After an early morning start, you will be picked up at the hotel by our guide who will take you to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla takes around 35 minutes, time enough to take in the spectacular views of the Himalayas. After landing at Tenzing-Hilary airport you will meet your porter who will carry your luggage. You then begin your journey with a relatively easy trek passing a Kani (ceremonial gatehouse) before the trail descends then leads above Kyangma village with its large gompa (monastery) and school. We then continue to Cheplung village where the trail passes through community forest within sight of the Dudh Koshi River. After crossing the suspension bridge you climb across the ridge to Ghat and then passes a school and complex of Mani walls, Chortens and prayer wheels. After a short walk from Ghat, we reach Phakding. Overnight at a mountain lodge. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Included.
Day 4 : Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After breakfast, the trek crosses several suspension bridges over the Dudh Kosi River before passing through Tok-Tok, Bhenkar, and Monjo and then arriving at Sagarmatha National Park entrance gate where you will be required to buy a permit. After following the river bed for a few hours and after the last Hillary suspension bridge, there is a steep uphill trek to Namche Bazaar. Namche has a good selection of restaurants, a cyber café, pubs, post office, an ATM and banks. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 5 : Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar (Hike to Everest View Hotel) Duration 3-4 hours.
This idyllic town is an ideal place for"acclimatization". Health specialists recommend we spend the day being active, rather than sitting idle. From Namche it is possible to take a short hike to Everest View Resort, Thame, visit Khunde or relax and explore Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is the main center of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, internet cafes, shops, restaurants, bakery, and a colorful market each Friday evening and Saturday. A short trek of only a hundred metres will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides will also take us to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarters of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of relics related to the first mountaineers to climb Everest, Sherpa culture and discover the varied plant and animal life of the Everest region. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 6 : Trek to Tengboche (3,870 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trek continues along the rapid flowing glacial waters of the Dudh Kosi with magnificent views of the mountains (Mt. Everest, Lhoste, Taboche peak, Amadablam. You eventually reach an altitude of 3,800 meters at Tengboche. At the Tengboche monastery are unbelievably ornate wall hangings, a 20-foot sculpture of various poses of the Buddha and musical instruments and robes of the Lamas. Our group will be taken to observe a prayer ceremony, either in the evening or in the morning, depending on how the trekking goes this day. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 7 : Trek to Dingboche (4,460m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trek from Tengboche to Dingboche is only a short distance which we will most likely complete in the afternoon. The last hill into Dingboche, and at this high altitude, is challenging!. The trail then heads to the village of Somare (4020m) and then to Orsho, both of which have lodged. Later the trail divides, with the left trail heading up to Pheriche before crossing a suspension bridge and a steep climb to the village of Dingboche (4460m) with many good guesthouses. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 8 : Acclimatization day at Dingboche and hike to Chukkung Valley (4730m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
It is sensible to spend another day acclimatizing before heading to higher altitudes. One way of doing this is to hike up to Chukkung Valley (4730m) and on to Island Peak (Imja Tes). Above Dingboche is Nagkartshang Gompa (a strenuous trek takes around 2 to 3 hours), or alternatively head to Pheriche for an afternoon lecture on altitude sickness. The trail to Chhukung leaves Dingboche heading to Bibr (4570m) and is surrounded by fabulous mountain Peaks: Taboche, Nuptse, Lhotse, the enormous flute-shaped pass of Amphu Laptsa Pass, Ama Dablam. Chukkung has several lodges and is the most popular spot for those climbing Island Peak. If trekkers feel better acclimatized they can head up a grassy slope towards the peak of Chukkung Ri (5550m) for a magnificent view of Makalu. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 9 : Trek to Lobuche (4,900 meters) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After breakfast, our trek starts with an easy walk towards Thukla before crossing the steep terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and then passing through the boulder-strewn slopes as we ascend Chupki Lhara where we find clusters of stones with prayer flags placed by Sherpas as a memorial to Scott Fischer (American mountaineer), 10-time Everest summiteer Babu Chiri Sherpa (Nepalese Sherpa mountain guide) who perished on a mission to climb Mt. Everest. The path then continues to the Khumbu Glacier moraine and before us are many beautiful mountain peaks - Khumbutse, Lingtren, and Mahalangur Himal. We stay overnight in Lobuche. Breakfast,lunch & dinner included.
Day 10 : Trek to Gorak shep (5,180m) trek to EBC & overnight stay at Gorekshep Duration: 7-8 hours.
We commence our trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp through the vast Gorak-Shep. Along the trail, we pass the Indian army mountaineers' memorials. At this point the path can be confusing, so following your guide is important. The thin air at this high altitude can be exhausting. We traverse rocky dunes, moraine, and streams before reaching the Mt. Everest Base Camp. From Everest Base Camp you will see some of the world’s highest peaks, in stark contrast to the gray surroundings - especially in the spring. Before we are Khumbuste, Nuptse, and Pumori. We will then head back to Gorak Shep. Breakfast Lunch & Dinner Included.
Day 11 : Hike to Kalapattar (5545m/18188ft) – Gorekshep –Lukla by helicopter and fly to Kathmandu by flight.
An early start to the day will be rewarded with unforgettable sunrise views from Kala Pathar – a photographer’s paradise! Mount Everest and other gigantic peaks will be in-your-face! After spending some time here to capture the views we will head back down to Gorakshep for a well-deserved breakfast. After breakfast, we will prepare for the scenic helicopter flight to Lukla and take a flight back to Kathmandu taking in some glorious views of the surrounding Himalayan Mountains.
Day 12 : Transfer to the International airport for your final Departure.
Your adventure comes to an end today – but your memories will last a lifetime! Our company representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your nearest next adventure and explore the most magnificent mountains of Nepal.
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Three night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Shared Helicopter fly from Gorak Shep to Lukla
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
- All necessary paperwork including Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (Ramechhap -Lukla- Ramechhap) flight with private airport transfer and domestic airport tax.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with private car/jeep.
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
- Excess baggage of more than 10 kg for Lukla flight.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom - until Namche which is a thriving town seeing many more tourists and a greater range of accommodation. It should be noted that at higher elevations the quality of accommodation may not be as good, with more basic rooms with the bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Khumbu region is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpas’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We do not have to use public transportation or local buses during the trek. Our only flights are from Kathmandu to Lukla and return.
Physical fitness
EBC is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus!. We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek.The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you to the base camp of Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain. It is a challenging and rewarding adventure that offers stunning views of the Himalayas, unique cultural experiences, and a chance to immerse yourself in the Sherpa way of life.
How long does the Everest Base Camp Trek typically take?
The duration of the Everest Base Camp Trek varies depending on the chosen itinerary and individual fitness levels. On average, it takes around 12-14 days to complete the trek, including acclimatization days for altitude adjustment.
What is the best time of year to do the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The best time to undertake the Everest Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking.
Do I need prior trekking experience to do the Everest Base Camp Trek?
While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended to have a moderate level of fitness and some hiking experience. The trek involves walking for several hours each day and ascending to high altitudes, so being physically prepared is important.
What permits are required for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
To do the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card. These permits can be obtained through authorized trekking agencies or from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
What is the accommodation like during the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Accommodation during the Everest Base Camp Trek is typically in tea houses or lodges along the trekking route. These are basic but comfortable accommodations offering meals and a place to rest. Some tea houses may have shared bathrooms, while others may have attached bathrooms.
Is altitude sickness a concern during the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Altitude sickness is a potential concern during the Everest Base Camp Trek, as you will be ascending to high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly by taking rest days and ascending gradually. It is also recommended to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and listen to your guide's advice.
What should I pack for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Everest Base Camp Trek include trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a good quality sleeping bag, a down jacket, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, a headlamp, sunscreen, a water bottle, and personal toiletries. It is best to pack light but ensure you have all the necessary gear.
Is it safe to drink water during the trek?
It is generally not recommended to drink tap water during the trek. Bottled water is available at tea houses, but it can be expensive and contributes to plastic waste. It is advisable to bring water purifying tablets or a water filter to treat water from natural sources.
Can I hire a guide and porter for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Yes, hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended for the Everest Base Camp Trek. A guide will provide valuable information, ensure your safety, and assist with navigation, while a porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight and enjoy the journey more comfortably.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 7 Reviews
Terri Johanson
Australia
December 18, 2023
Amazing EBC Trek with Sherpa Expedition
Our EBC trek with Sherpa Expedition was amazing. The helicopter ride from Gorakshep to Lukla was a fantastic way to conclude the journey. Our guide, Lakpa Sherpa, was not only very nice but also extremely knowledgeable, ensuring our trek was smooth and enjoyable. The porters provided excellent assistance throughout. Sherpa Expedition is the best company to go with for an EBC trek.
Zuzana Janatková
Australia
October 17, 2023
Memorable EBC Trek
Our EBC trek with Sherpa Expedition was truly memorable. Returning by helicopter from Gorakshep to Lukla was a thrilling experience. Our guide, Lakpa Sherpa, was not only knowledgeable but also very nice and friendly. The porters provided great assistance throughout the trek. The company's services were exceptional, making the trip one of the best experiences we've had.
Ulises Victoria Lopez
Australia
October 5, 2023
Incredible EBC Trek with Sherpa Expedition
We had an amazing experience trekking to Everest Base Camp with Sherpa Expedition. The highlight was returning by helicopter from Gorakshep to Lukla, which added an extra thrill to the journey. Our guide, Lakpa Sherpa, was incredibly knowledgeable and kind, ensuring our safety and enjoyment throughout. The porters were also very nice and helpful. The company itself is undoubtedly the best, providing excellent services and making our trip unforgettable.
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