Everest Base Camp Trek & Heli Return is a 12-day adventure that combines stunning mountain panoramas, cultural immersion, and historical significance. This trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, glacial moraine, and high Himalayan terrains, offering breathtaking views of majestic peaks and pristine lakes.
Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore traditional Sherpa settlements, learn about their rich culture, and follow in the footsteps of legendary climbers. The trek is designed for those with no prior high-altitude experience, providing well-established trails and comfortable accommodations. It’s an unforgettable journey that captures the beauty of the Himalayas and the warmth of the Nepalese people.
Overview
The Everest Base Camp Leisurely & Heli Return Trek will be a memory that you will cherish for a lifetime, where there are stories at every turn, with some of the most beautiful locations on earth where destinations come to life. Like most places if you travel the back road, you’ll see something else. In this Everest Base Camp Leisurely Trek, you’ll see the side of the country that does what it does, and it is to capture your imagination not just the mountains but the people you meet.
Embark on The Everest Base Camp Leisurely & Heli Return Trek, and trace Nepal’s classic trekking routes that legendary climbers Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa once journeyed during their conquest of Mount Everest. These historic paths, also frequented by traders and merchants, offer a journey rich in history and adventure. This trail takes you across remote alpine regions, mountain ranges, glacier moraine and folds, lakes, and raging rivers. Where you’ll be happy to travel, discover new things, and meet new people.
Important note:
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full co-operation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
The flight into Nepal is breathtaking with views of endless rows of mountains and lush hills. Once you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport and are done with your immigration formalities, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative from the Alpine Club of Himalaya who will drive you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore on your own.
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
After breakfast head on a full-day sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu valley also known as, the “city of glory.” The valley has various attractions that you can choose from, visit Durbar Square, the epicenter of religious and cultural life, an area filled with old temples and palaces having historical significance with glorious old architecture. Some of the sights include Kal Bhairav, Hanuman Dhoka, Taleju Temple, Kasthamandap, and Kumari Ghar a home to the Living Goddess.
Afterwards head towards Swayambhunath Stupa also known as the monkey temple, said to be one of the oldest Buddhist stupas in the world, which is majestically set high on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, with panoramic view of the mountain ranges to the north. Next, proceed towards Pashupatinath Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this massive temple complex sits alongside the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the courtyard of the temple, whereas tourists can see the temple from the eastern side of the Bagmati River. Later we visit Boudhanath, another Buddhist Stupa and one of the largest in the world. This massive structure stands tall with four pairs of eyes each facing the four cardinal directions, watching for the righteous behavior of mankind and for human prosperity.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Catch an early morning exciting flight from Kathmandu Airport to Lukla witnessing views of mountain giants. Lukla, a picturesque mountaintop Sherpa settlement is the starting point of your trek.
From Lukla head towards Phakding, descend towards the Dudh Koshi River passing through various settlements of Chheplung, Ghat, Sano, and Thulo Gumela and Chorten and monasteries of Drangdrak Gompa and Pema Choling Gompa with breathtaking views of sacred mountain peaks of Kumbila and sister summit Kusum Kanguru. No one is permitted to climb this sacred mountain, making it one of the few unclimbed summits in the Khumbu area.
Phakding is nestled at an elevation of 2,610 meters a small Sherpa settlement hidden in the heart of the Dudh Koshi Valley. Once you reach the settlement head towards your tea house and rest later explore the area.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today you’ll be heading to Namche Bazar known as the "Sherpa capital”. After breakfast head to the trail crossing through the hamlet of Zamphute and Tok Tok witnessing rays of morning sun dazzling Thamserku peak. The trail passes the Dudh Koshi, a milky glacial river up to Monjo crossing number of suspension bridges and the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge .
Arrange your permits for inspection before you approach the Sagarmatha National Park entrance a UNESCO world heritage site, after your permits are checked head down alongside the Dudh Koshi River to Jorsale. After a brief rest, head towards Namche Bazaar on an uphill trail on a steep path to an amazing high bridge over the Dudhkoshi River gorge, and just before this bridge, the Dudhkoshi is met by its tributary, the Bhote Koshi. As you gain altitude, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge, from here Namche is a short hike away.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today is your acclimatization day at Namche Bazar, as you gain altitude your body must acclimate to the thinner air at greater elevations. The settlement has various vantage points for acclimatization hikes.
Head up to any vantage at dawn and dusk to witness the breathtaking view of the Himalayas. The rays of the sun illuminate the snow-covered peaks of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and Lhotse, Later explore the Sherpa Culture Museum to learn about Sherpa culture, traditions, and customs.
In the afternoon explore some of the finest bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and shops around Namche which you’ll not find in most of the trekking trails of the country.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today’s trail between Phortse and Pangboche is not the main trail, so the pathway is narrow and has sheer drops at various portions so take it slow and take caution. Pangboche is a major settlement inhabited all year round consisting of two villages upper and lower Pangboche.
Lodges are widely available in lower Pangboche and have various riverside stone-walled agricultural fields. The oldest monastery in the Khumbu region, the Riwa Gompa is located in upper Pangboche. Most trekkers pass through lower Pangboche on the way up and visit upper Pangboche while returning from Kala Patthar. Once you reach Pangboche head towards your tea house and rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
After an early breakfast following the Imja Khola, the trail climbs towards the village of Shomare and crosses the tree line, from where the terrain changes into arid dry landscapes with patches of conifers, scrub, and isolated pastures lands.
From here cross the grazing lands and dotted stone huts passing the settlement of Orsho and Tsuro Wog, from here the trail descends to a point near the confluence of Imja Khola and Khumbu Khola. Finally climbing a low ridge you’ll reach the sprawling hamlet of Dingboche a cold and windy region with sub-zero night temperatures even in summer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today is your second day of acclimatization, the settlement has various vantage points ideal for acclimatization excursions. After breakfast hike to the Chukhung valley ascending up the Imja Khola valley to a land riven by glacial moraines amidst towering, formidable mountains from the head towards the vantage point of Chukhung Ri, a rocky hill behind the village, and witness views of Lhotse, Makalu, Cho You, Cholatse, Taboche, and Lobuche West, Lobuche East. Later on, explore the settlement.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
On today’s trail to Lobuche, you’ll find yourselves in the lap of the Himalayas with mountains on all sides capturing your imagination, you’ll pass through Dusa where you’ll see herdsmen’s uninhabited stone huts, from here head towards Dughla and then to Chupki Lhara where you’ll see large heaps of stones with prayer flags a memorial for the mountaineers who perished on a mission to climb Mt. Everest and other peaks around the region. After a brief ascends, you’ll get a view of Chola Lakes' pristine blue waters. From Chupki Lara, the trail descends to the Khumbu glacier moraine walk alongside the three great peaks-Khumbutse, Lingtren, and Pumori. A final stretch along a murmuring stream and you’ll reach the settlement of Lobuche.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today’s trek is long, and tuff so starts early, the first part of the trek takes you past high Himalayan pasture lands and grassy terrains with rocky and scattered boulders, all along you’ll witness views of snowy walls of lofty mountains ahead.
The 60 meters/200 feet ascent takes you to the top of the lateral moraine wall of the Changri glacier, to a leveled spot called Thangma Riju from where you’ll witness a spectacular 360-degree panorama view of the Himalayan giants of Taboche, Lobuche, Pumori, and the rest of Mahalangur Himal peaks, along with views up to Tibet and Nuptse on the eastern horizon.
The trail from here crosses the moraine of the Changri glacier and later joins the Khumbu glacier from the west, you’ll have to traverse on the steep stony slopes to reach Gorak Shep so take extra caution. As you reach Gorak Shep, you’ll catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar.
From Gorak Shep leave your heavy backpack and move towards Everest Base Camp walking alongside the banks of shallow blue waters of Gorak Shep lake, with views of the Changtse peak, and the Lho La peak in close proximity. Cross through glaciers, icefalls, frozen pools of meltwater, exposed icy walls, and large boulders towards the Everest Base Camp. After exploring the base camp descend back to Gorak Shep for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today you’ll be heading towards the famous vantage point of Kala Patthar, often flocked by trekkers passing this trail. Start early after a light breakfast passing through the wide sandy bed of a dried lake traversing through a steep zigzags trail and ascending up a steep trail to witness views of Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse. As you climb higher, you’ll witness a grand view of the Khumbu glacier and Nuptse massif, a final stretch to the summit of Kala Patthar will provide you with views of endless rows of the high mountains including Mt. Everest. After spending a brief time at the summit retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep.
From Gorak board the helicopter and leave behind the rugged terrain of the Everest region. Along the flight witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Flying over snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque villages, soak in the grandeur of nature from a unique perspective. Upon arriving at Kathmandu proceed towards your accommodation. Later head out to explore the bustling streets of Thamel. In the evening join in for a farewell dinner program to mark the end of your successful adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Today you’ll be returning back to your country. The Alpine Club of Himalaya representative will drop you at the airport three hours before your flight departs. If you prefer to stay longer, you can consult us for short tours such as game drives at National parks, rafting, mountain biking, Tibet, India, or Bhutan tours, etc.
Meals: Breakfast
If you have any inquiries or require assistance and further information about this trip or any other trips, please feel free to contact Alpine Club of Himalaya.
NOTE: All of the aforementioned trekking hours are approximations and should only be used as a general guideline.
Terms and Conditions
Alpine Club of Himalaya is a trusted trekking and tour operator in Nepal (Registration No: 66893/066/067) dedicated to providing exceptional travel experiences. Our goal is to ensure your satisfaction with our travel and adventure services. Please review the following terms and conditions for booking with us.
General Booking Conditions
For trips in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, a photocopy of your passport and a 20% deposit of the total trip cost are required to confirm your booking. This 20% deposit is non-refundable and will be used for hotel reservations, transportation, and trekking permits. The remaining balance is payable upon your arrival in Kathmandu before your tour starts.
Booking a Trip
* A 'trip' encompasses any itinerary or activities, including trekking, tours, expeditions, and other adventure programs that you purchase from us.
* The contract between Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. and the client is established only when we send a confirmation invoice or email to the customer.
* We reserve the right to adjust the prices of trips or tours before the booking is confirmed and the contract is finalized.
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. will not be responsible for any warranties, collateral agreements, prior agreements, or descriptions of services or conditions beyond those explicitly stated in this agreement.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel your booking with the Alpine Club of Himalaya, please provide us with written notice. We will confirm the receipt of your cancellation request. The amount you will be charged for canceling will depend on how close to the departure date you make your request:
Please note, no refunds will be provided if you voluntarily drop out once the trip has begun or if you do not use any pre-paid services such as accommodation, transportation, or meals.
Cancellation by Alpine Club Of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd.
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to cancel any trip, including those guaranteed to operate, before departure due to circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, flight cancellations, strikes, industrial action, wars, riots, illness, quarantine, government restrictions, adverse weather, or other unforeseen events. In such cases, we will provide a refund of the trip price only. If a guaranteed trip is canceled, you will have the option to either receive a full refund or choose an alternative trip of equal value.
Significant alterations do not include changes to airline carriers, flight schedules, or itineraries, as long as departure and arrival dates remain the same. Changes in cabin category or hotel accommodation will be within the same category.
Please be aware that Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. is not liable for any incidental expenses or consequential losses incurred by the client as a result of the booking. This includes costs such as visa fees, vaccinations, non-refundable flights or rail fares, parking fees, loss of earnings, or loss of enjoyment.
Additionally, no refunds will be given if you choose to withdraw from the trip after it has commenced, or if you do not utilize any pre-paid services, including accommodation, transportation, or meals.
Last-Minute Booking
Last-minute bookings for Nepal trips are accepted up to one day before departure. Full payment is required immediately. Last-minute bookings for Bhutan and Tibet trips are not accepted.
Trip Postponement
If you need to postpone your trip, notify us in writing with your new departure date. We will transfer your reservations to the new date at no additional cost, unless there are changes in rates for the new date.
Medical Conditions and Special Requirements
If you have any medical conditions or special requirements, please inform Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. at the time of booking. This includes physical disabilities or any other conditions that may affect your ability to travel. Failure to disclose such conditions may lead to refusal of travel and potential forfeiture of your deposit or even the full trip cost.
Certain trips may not be suitable for clients based on age, physical conditions (such as mobility issues or pregnancy), or mental health. It is your responsibility to verify suitability before booking. Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. will not provide special accommodations unless explicitly agreed upon in writing. We will make every effort to accommodate special requests, including dietary preferences, but such requests are not guaranteed and do not form part of the contractual agreement.
Medical facilities and standards vary by country, and Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. makes no representations or warranties regarding the quality of medical treatment available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for all clients. It should cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation, helicopter rescue, and other relevant risks. We recommend purchasing insurance from a reputable provider in your country.
Passport and Visa
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Nepalese visas can be obtained at the Nepalese Consulate or on arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Visa costs are the client’s responsibility.
Flight Delays and Changes in Itinerary
Please be aware that mountain adventures are subject to unpredictable weather conditions. Bad weather in mountainous regions can lead to delays or cancellations of domestic flights. In such cases, Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. will arrange accommodation (guesthouse) and provide meals (lunch and breakfast) if requested by the client. However, clients are responsible for covering any additional expenses, including those for extra food and accommodation. If you opt for alternative arrangements, such as a helicopter flight to bypass delays, you will be responsible for all associated costs.
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. is not liable for missed international flights. We will make every effort to assist with alternative arrangements where possible. Additionally, please note that changes to the itinerary may be necessary due to adverse weather conditions or other factors beyond our control during outdoor activities.
Payment Methods
Payments can be made via wire transfer or credit card.
Credit Card Payment
To pay by credit card (Mastercard or Visa), select your trip package, complete the required information on the “BOOK THIS TRIP” form, and pay the specified advance amount. You will receive an invoice and further instructions via email.
Physical Fitness
Good health is essential for a successful Himalayan adventure. Ensure you are physically and mentally prepared to tackle the demands of the trip. We prioritize your well-being and aim to make your journey with us unforgettable and enjoyable.
Guaranteed Departures
Once your trip is booked, we guarantee departure on the scheduled date, regardless of group size. Even if fewer participants join, we will proceed with the trip as planned. Our team at Alpine Club of Himalaya is committed to adhering to your schedule and ensuring a seamless experience.
Risk and Liability
We strive to provide exceptional service and a pleasant holiday experience. However, Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. and its affiliates are not responsible for itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances such as government restrictions, natural disasters, political unrest, flight cancellations, or other events beyond our control. Adventure trips inherently involve risks, and clients accept responsibility for any personal injuries, damages, or additional expenses that may arise.
Cost Adjustments
Alpine Club of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to adjust prices posted on our website due to unforeseen factors like exchange rate fluctuations or government actions. We strive to keep published prices accurate and offer seasonal discounts to match your budget and schedule.
Injuries and Evacuations
Our package costs do not include personal insurance. Alpine Club of Himalaya is not liable for injuries or health issues during the trip. Clients should have their own insurance coverage.
Client Responsibilities
Our tour/trek leader has full authority during the trip. Any unlawful behavior may result in immediate removal from the tour, with no refund.
Publicity
We may use photos and videos of clients for promotional purposes on our website, but we respect privacy and will not disclose personal information.
Personal Belongings
While we take measures to ensure the safety of your belongings, Alpine Club of Himalaya is not responsible for lost or damaged luggage or personal items during the trip.
Privacy
The information collected during the booking process is used solely for arranging permits and organizing your trip. We do not share or use your personal details for any other purposes or disclose them to third parties.
Missed or Unused Services
No discounts or refunds will be provided for missed or unused services. This includes situations such as voluntary or involuntary departure from the tour due to illness, family emergencies, late arrivals, or early departures, whether voluntary or involuntary.
Updating of Terms and Conditions
Alpine Club Of Himalaya Pvt. Ltd. reserves the right to update and amend these terms and conditions at any time. Clients are responsible for staying informed about any changes. The most current version of the terms and conditions will be available on our website at www.alpineclubofhimalaya.com and will be applicable in the event of any disputes.
For any questions or further clarification, please contact us. We look forward to assisting you with your travel plans!
Nepal
Follow us
