Everest Base Camp helicopter-7 Days

Quick Overview

Overview of EBC Helicopter tour

This trip is the best way to explore the Everest Base Camp with a helicopter tour, a unique and high-altitude trekking adventure that merges luxury with adventure. This is a unique tour for adventure lovers with time constraints. With proper guided arrangements and stunning views of Everest and the Khumbu Himalayas, you can reach the Everest base camp in five days.

A journey starts with a memorable flight from Kathmandu or Ramechap, Manthali Airport, to Lukla. From Lukla, you will join the trek to Everest base camp. Upon arrival in Lukla, we will take a short break to observe the surrounding market before slowly hiking up to Phakding, which is a Sherpa town that leads to Namche Bazaar. Namche serves as both an acclimatization and adventure stop and is a cultural marvel packed with Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and lush terraced farmlands.

The best part of the trek is the helicopter ride to the Everest base camp or Kala Patthar, which will give you close views of the ever-magical Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and, of course, Khumbu Icefall. This helicopter ride gives panoramic views, which many trekkers take weeks to see.

Following your helicopter return to Lukla, you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking mountain views one last time.

What is the cost for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?

The cost for an Everest Base Camp (EBC) helicopter tour is around USD 2,500 to USD 3,200, depending on the level of service, group size, and customization. This 7-day package combines the thrill of trekking in the Khumbu region with the comfort and speed of a helicopter return from Everest Base Camp or Kala Patthar, saving you days on the trail—a perfect fit for all who have limited vacation time and do not have proper hiking practices.

Lukla flight information

Most trekkers begin their journey on the Everest Base Camp tour by flying from Kathmandu or Ramechap to Lukla, the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park. Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport) is one of the world’s highest and most thrilling airports, with an elevation of 2860 meters. Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla take approximately 30–35 minutes, but flights from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport), which is primarily used during peak season, take only 20 minutes. Due to changing weather conditions, there are frequent delays and cancellations, so to be on the safer side, slack days before and after your planned trek to Everest are advisable. To avoid cancellation of flights, most of the trekkers and the agency schedule a morning flight to Lukla for more reliability due to the clear sky. Other options do exist, such as helicopter rides, but these are quite a lot pricier than flights. No matter the route, The Everest Holiday will take care of your logistics and manage them with real-time flight updates, travel information, and the best advice for the trip.

Which is the best season for an EBC helicopter tour?

The ideal season for the Everest Base Camp trek and helicopter tour is in spring (March-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov). These months are ideal for trekking and helicopter trips since they have the most consistent weather, clear skies, and stunning Himalayan views.

Why choose The Everest Holiday for the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour?

The Everest Holiday for your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour guarantees a smooth, safe, and unforgettable Himalayan journey, tailored by local professionals who fully understand the area. The Everest Holiday has over 28 years of expertise and hundreds of successful trekkers in the Everest region and other parts of Nepal.

We are officially registered with the Department of Tourism, Government of Nepal, and linked with key tourism agencies such as NATTA, NTB, TAAN, and NMA.

We have specially designed our Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour itinerary to cater to those with limited time but still eager to explore the EBC. Visiting some of the legendary spots like Lukla, Namche Bazar, Everest View Hotel, Everest Base Camp, Kala Pathar, and even Khumbu Icefall, which have a great impact on changing climate.

Flexible and Customizable Itineraries

We provide totally bespoke 7-day EBC helicopter tours according to your 1-week availability, fitness level, and interests, whether you want a private luxury escape, a family adventure, or a group travel experience.

Safety first.

Our helicopter trips include experienced pilots, frequent maintenance, and strict safety standards. We closely monitor weather patterns and emphasize your well-being throughout the travel.

All-inclusive, no hidden costs.

With clear pricing, our packages include everything you need—domestic flights, permits, hotels, meals, helicopter transfers, guides, and porters—so you can concentrate entirely on the experience.

Perfect for a 1-week holiday

Our Everest Base Camp (EBC) helicopter tour package is well planned for those who have a 1-week holiday and want to experience both trekking and a luxurious helicopter flight tour to Everest Base Camp.

Safety first.

Our helicopter trips include experienced pilots, frequent maintenance, and strict safety standards. We closely monitor weather patterns and emphasize your well-being throughout the travel.

All-inclusive, no hidden costs.

With clear pricing, our packages include everything you need—domestic flights, permits, hotels, meals, helicopter transfers, guides, and porters—so you can concentrate entirely on the experience.

Perfect for a 1-week holiday

Our Everest Base Camp (EBC) helicopter tour package is well planned for those who have a one-week holiday and want to experience both trekking and a luxurious helicopter flight to Everest Base Camp.

 

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
Day 01:

Upon arrival in Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, complete all the custom check. Our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel in a private vehicle or you can borrow a taxi or also online transfer service like Patho, in drive it’s upon your choice. Remaining time is free for your refreshment. In evening our representative will brief you about the EBC trek and helicopter tour.

Max Altitude: 1,350m Accommodation: 3-Star hotel
Day 02:

We will get ready early in the morning and transfer to the Airport for our flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. It will takes approx. 30-40 minute. You can observe the different mountain and landscape from the flight.  Due to unexpected weather change we need to take a morning flight.

If your flight is from the Manthali Airport, we have to drive in a private vehicle from Kathmandu to Ramechap which takes around 3-4 hours. Move early morning from Kathmandu at 5-6 A.M.

You will pass Chaurikharka Village on your short hike to Phakding after landing in Lukla.  Phakding is where Everest expeditions begin, and everything you need for the journey is available at the Phakding market.  It also features contemporary eateries and cafes with Wi-Fi connections.  We won't miss seeing the Rimishung Monastery, one of the numerous monasteries in Phakding.

Max Altitude: 2,650m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse or LodgeDuration: 40 min flight and 3-4 hours hike
Day 03:

After breakfast in Phakding, trek begin the gradual rise to Namche Bazaar, crossing numerous high suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. As you enter Sagarmatha National Park, your guide will handle the permit process. The trail becomes steeper, and if the weather is clear, you'll get your first view of Mount Everest. When you arrive in Namche, check into your lodge and then explore the vibrant town. It's a terrific spot to refill your gear, eat at local restaurants, and, if it's Saturday, don't miss the vibrant weekly market, which brings together Tibetan sellers and lowland merchants.

Max Altitude: 3,440 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse or LodgeDuration: 4-5 hours hike
Day 04:

The day is free, you can take a tour around town today. Enjoy the Everest Photo Gallery and the Sherpa Culture Museum, two of Namche Bazaar's numerous tourist attractions. Local handicrafts are also sold in the town's market. You'll hike to the well-known Everest View Hotel today after that. Occupying one of the highest locations on Earth, the hotel offers views from every window of Mount Everest and several of its summits. Moreover, it offers stunning views of Namche Bazaar below and the Himalayas above. Be in the Everest View Hotel for the night.

Max Altitude: 3,440 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse and Lodge
Day 05:

After spending a splendid day in Namche, yet another adventurous day begin. Pack all your belongings and wear warm clothes. On this day, you will enjoy a bird’s eye view of the highest mountains in the world in a helicopter! After breakfast at Namche, you will board a private helicopter flight towards Everest Base Camp.

The first view of Ama Dablam (6,812m/ 22,349ft), Thamserku (6,608m/21,680ft), Kantega (6,782m/22,251ft) Lhotse (8516m/ 27,940ft) and Nuptse (7,861m/25,791ft) comes into light. However, the crown jewel, Mt. Everest at 8848.86m/29031.7ft is the best attraction being the highest mountain in the world.

You will be dropped off at the Everest Base Camp for 15 minutes to set foot on the lap of the highest mountain. The top of Mt. Everest is not seen from its base camp. The weather is freezing in this area, but the scenic views of snowy mountains engross you. After a short while, you will hop back onto the helicopter and be taken to lukla.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse or LunchDuration: 3-4 hours tour
Day 06:

Enjoying the last panoramic view of the Himalayan Mountains, you will fly back to Kathmandu or Manthali Airports according to the season. On peak season you will fly back to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu which takes around 4-5 hours. But in normal season flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is available. Up on arrival in Kathmandu, you will transfer to hotel by guide and leisure time for your refreshment.

Max Altitude: 1,350m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: 3-Star hotel
Day 07:

The morning will be free and before 3 hours of flight time we will transfer you to Tribhuvan international airport for a final departure to your home country.

Max Altitude: 1,350m Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pickup and drop-off in a private vehicle.
  • 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a full board basis.
  • Hotel accommodation in Lukla and Namche on a full-board basis.
  • guide and porter is included
  • All the permits are included.
  • For the Lukla flight, a helicopter tour is included.
Excludes
  • International flight
  • tipping the guide and Porter
  • Nepal entry Visa fees
  • Travel insurance.
Essential Information

FAQs for the weekday journey to Everest Base Camp (EBC) tour.

  1. What is the main difference between this tour and a traditional Everest Base Camp trek?

This 7-day tour combines moderate trekking in the lower Khumbu Valley (up to Namche Bazaar) with a thrilling helicopter flight directly to Everest Base Camp (EBC) or Kala Patthar. A traditional EBC trek typically involves a longer, more strenuous hike over 12-14 days to reach EBC on foot and return, without the helicopter transfer. This tour is ideal for those with limited time or who prefer a less physically demanding high-altitude experience.

  1. What level of physical fitness is required for this tour?

While the helicopter component reduces the overall trekking time, you'll still be walking for 3-6 hours daily for the first three days, including uphill sections and high-altitude acclimatization walks around Namche Bazaar. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, meaning you should be comfortable with regular walking, hiking, or similar cardiovascular activities. No prior high-altitude trekking experience is necessary.

  1. How significant is the risk of altitude sickness, and how is it managed?

Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness—AMS) is a risk when ascending to high altitudes. This tour incorporates a crucial acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) to help your body adjust. While the helicopter significantly reduces the time spent at extreme altitudes, a rapid ascent to EBC/Kala Patthar can still induce symptoms. Your guide will monitor your health, and it's essential to stay hydrated, walk slowly, and report any symptoms immediately. Emergency oxygen is available on the helicopter.

  1. What is the best time of year to take this tour?

The best seasons for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trekking Tour are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are spectacular. While possible in winter (December-February), it's much colder. Monsoon season (June-August) is typically avoided due to frequent rain, clouds, and flight disruptions.

  1. What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

In Kathmandu, you'll stay in comfortable hotels. During the trekking portion (Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Lukla), accommodation will be in local "teahouses." These are basic but cozy lodges offering rooms with twin beds, shared bathrooms (sometimes attached), and a common dining area. Facilities become more rudimentary as you ascend.

  1. What type of food is available during the trek?

Teahouses offer a varied menu, typically including local Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup), noodle soups, fried rice, pasta, and some international options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are usually available. Staying hydrated is crucial, so plenty of boiled and filtered water will be provided or available for purchase.

  1. Is it possible for solo travelers to join this tour?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome. You can join a group departure, which often helps in sharing helicopter costs, or opt for a private tour (though this will be more expensive). Tour operators typically facilitate group bookings.

  1. What essential items should I pack for this tour?

Given the varied altitudes and weather, packing layers is key. Essential items include:

  • Clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece jacket, down jacket, waterproof/windproof outer shell, trekking pants, and comfortable walking shorts/t-shirts for lower altitudes.
  • Footwear: Broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support and camp shoes/sandals.
  • Headwear: Warm hat, sun hat, sunglasses.
  • Personal Items: Sunscreen (high SPF), lip balm with SPF, hand sanitizer, personal toiletries, and a small quick-drying towel.
  • Gear: Daypack, duffel bag (for porters), trekking poles, water bottle/hydration bladder, and headlamp with extra batteries.
  • Documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance details, cash (Nepali Rupees).
  1. What happens if there are flight delays or cancellations to Lukla? 

Flights to and from Lukla are highly weather-dependent and can experience delays or cancellations. Your tour operator will make every effort to minimize disruption, including re-routing flights via Ramechhap/Manthali when necessary. It's advisable to factor in a buffer day or two in your international travel plans to accommodate potential delays.

  1. Are guides and porters included in the tour package?

Yes, this tour typically includes an experienced, English-speaking trekking guide who will lead you on the ground, manage logistics, and provide cultural insights. Porters are also usually provided to carry your main luggage, allowing you to carry only a daypack. Their salaries, meals, accommodation, and insurance are covered by the tour.

  1. What is the policy for cancellation or changes to the tour?

Cancellation policies vary by tour operator. Generally, a non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking. Full payment is usually due closer to the tour date. Cancellation fees often apply based on how close to the departure date you cancel. It's highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, interruption, and emergency evacuation for unforeseen circumstances.

  1. Can I charge my electronic devices during the trek?

Yes, you can typically charge phones and camera batteries at teahouses along the trek for a small fee. It's advisable to bring a portable power bank or extra batteries, especially for cameras, as charging points can be limited or unreliable at higher altitudes.