Benefits of Return by Helicopter Ride
There are several compelling reasons why choosing a helicopter return from Everest Base Camp or similar trekking destinations can be an excellent option:
Time Efficiency:
Trekking back from remote mountain regions can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Helicopter returns significantly reduce travel time, allowing you to make the most of your limited vacation days.
Comfort and Safety:
Helicopter journeys provide a comfortable and secure mode of transport. You don't have to worry about the physical challenges or potential altitude-related health issues that can arise during the return trek.
Unmatched aerial Perspectives:
Helicopter rides provide unparalleled aerial views of the spectacular Himalayan scenery. You can create priceless memories by taking breathtaking pictures and films of the area's spectacular peaks, glaciers, and valleys.
Unique experience:
A helicopter return adds an added layer of adventure and excitement to your experience. It's an exhilarating way to end your hike and offers a chance to view the mountains from a completely different perspective.
Maximize Exploration:
By saving time on your return journey, you can allocate more time for exploring the trekking region or indulging in cultural experiences, such as visiting local villages, monasteries, and markets.
Avoid Weather Delays:
Helicopter flights are less susceptible to weather-related delays that can affect domestic flights or the Lukla airstrip. This reliability ensures you can catch international flights or continue your travel plans without unnecessary stress.
Personalized Service:
Helicopter services often cater to small groups, providing a more personalized and flexible experience. You can tailor the departure time to your preference and enjoy a more intimate adventure.
Environmental Considerations:
Helicopter rides generally have a lower environmental impact compared to large groups of trekkers and porters on the trail. This option aligns with responsible tourism practices.
Accessibility:
Helicopter returns are ideal for individuals with physical limitations or time constraints who still want to experience the beauty of trekking regions like Everest Base Camp.
Best Time for Everest Base Camp Trek
Spring (March to May):
During spring, the Everest region comes to life with a burst of color as rhododendron forests bloom in vivid shades. This season offers trekkers stable and pleasant weather conditions, with clear skies and mild daytime temperatures. The absence of heavy rainfall ensures that trails remain dry and safe to navigate. The clarity of the atmosphere is ideal for capturing the awe-inspiring views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other surrounding peaks.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn features clear skies, dry, predictable weather, and comfortable daytime temperatures. Trekking in the fall offers excellent visibility, which is one of its main benefits. Trekkers may see the Himalayan giants in all their grandeur thanks to the post-monsoon air's crystal-clear panoramas. The Everest region's peak trekking season is in the fall, so you may anticipate more people on the trail and in teahouses during this time.
Temperatures during the Autumn and spring seasons
Autumn and Spring seasons has similar temperatures which are mentioned below
Location | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
Kathmandu
| 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
| 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
|
Lukla
| 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
| -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
|
Namche Bazaar
| 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
| -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F)
|
Everest Base Camp
| -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
| -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F)
|
With that being said winter and summer treks to Everest Base Camp are possible, but they come with their own set of challenges and considerations. Trekkers should carefully plan and prepare for these seasons, taking into account the weather, trail conditions, and personal preferences. For those seeking a more traditional and comfortable trekking experience, spring and autumn remain the most popular choices.
Difficulty level of Everest base camp trek with helicopter return
The Everest Base Camp trip is generally regarded as being moderately to very difficult. Here are some significant determinants of its difficulty:
Altitude:
The trek's abrupt ascent in height is one of its main obstacles. From Lukla (2,800 meters) to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters), you'll be trekking, and this altitude difference might cause symptoms like altitude sickness. In order to reduce the hazards brought on by high altitude, proper acclimatization is essential.
Trek length:
The trek normally lasts 12 days to complete, covering a round-trip distance of about 65 kilometers (40 miles). The amount of time spent trekking each day can vary; some days call for several hours of walking. It's crucial to have endurance and stamina.
Terrain:
The terrain varies from well-maintained trails to rocky and uneven paths, suspension bridges, and steep ascents and descents. The rugged nature of the trail can be physically demanding, and trekkers should be prepared for a variety of conditions.
Weather:
Weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable and harsh, especially at higher elevations. You may encounter cold temperatures, snow, rain, and strong winds, particularly during the winter and monsoon seasons.
Physical Fitness:
While you don't need to be an elite athlete, a reasonable level of physical fitness is essential to complete the trek comfortably. Pre-trek training that includes cardio exercises and strength training can be beneficial.
Preparation for this trek
To ensure a secure and pleasurable trek to this famous destination, preparation for the Everest Base Camp trek is important. Consider the following important factors as you get ready for the trek:
Physical Condition:
Cardiovascular Conditioning:
To increase your endurance and stamina, practice frequent cardiovascular exercises like hiking, jogging, cycling, and stair climbing.
Strengthening Exercises:
To better handle the rigors of hiking on uneven terrain and while carrying a backpack, strengthen your upper body, core, and leg muscles.
Altitude Acclimatization:
Planning your walk with a gradual ascent and acclimatization days at critical elevations can help you become acclimated to the altitude.
Be knowledgeable about altitude sickness signs and symptoms, and know what to do if any appear.
Mental Preparation:
Prepare psychologically for the difficulties you may encounter physically, as well as the likelihood of unforeseen circumstances.
While acknowledging the mountains' unpredictable character, maintain optimism and dedication to your objective.
Trekking Gear:
Invest in proper trekking gear, including comfortable and waterproof hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, layers for varying temperatures, and a good-quality backpack.
Ensure you have essential cold-weather gear like a down jacket, gloves, and a warm hat.
Health and Medical Precautions:
Consult a healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist for vaccinations and medications (e.g., altitude sickness medicine) you may need.
Carry a basic first aid kit, including blister treatment, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Local Customs and Respect:
Familiarize yourself with local customs and show respect for the culture and traditions of the Sherpa people in the region.
Availability of Facilities during Everest base camp trek
Water and Beverages:
Safe drinking water is typically available at teahouses, but it's important to utilize water purification techniques (such as iodine pills or a water filter) to prevent waterborne illnesses. It's easy to find hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, which keep trekkers warm in the freezing Himalayan climate.
Internet and Communication:
In lower-altitude villages, you may find sporadic Wi-Fi access at teahouses for a fee, but the connection can be slow and unreliable. Mobile phone signal coverage is generally available up to Namche Bazaar but becomes increasingly intermittent as you ascend higher into the mountains.
Electricity and Charging:
Most teahouses have electricity, often generated by solar panels or hydroelectric power. However, it may be limited or unavailable during cloudy days. Charging electronic devices (e.g., phones, cameras) is usually possible for an additional fee.
Basic Supplies:
Some villages have small shops where you can purchase basic supplies such as snacks, bottled water, batteries, and trekking gear. Prices tend to be higher at higher elevations, so it's a good idea to buy essential items at lower altitudes.
Medical Facilities:
Basic medical facilities are available in larger villages like Namche Bazaar and Pheriche, including clinics and pharmacies. Trekkers should carry a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications, as more extensive medical care may require evacuation by helicopter to a hospital in Kathmandu.
ATM and Money Exchange:
ATMs are available in Lukla and Namche Bazaar, allowing you to withdraw Nepali currency (Nepalese Rupees). It's advisable to carry some cash in Nepalese Rupees for purchases and emergencies, as credit card acceptance is limited.
Documents required for Everest Base Camp Trek
Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Nepal.
Nepalese Visa
Trekking Permits:
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card:
Sagarmatha National Park Permit
Travel Insurance
We are devoted to giving our customers a smooth and stress-free experience. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu or at the border entry points, our experienced team will assist you in applying for the proper visa for Nepal and will ensure that you have it. Ahead of your journey, we will also make it easier for you to obtain the necessary permissions, such as the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and the Sagarmatha National Park permit.
How to obtain a Visa?
Well first, you will need to fill out a visa application form upon your arrival at the airport or border entry point. These forms are readily available, and staff members can assist you if needed.
You will need to provide the following documents and information:
A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Nepal. It should also have at least one blank visa page for the visa sticker.
Two recent passport-sized photos
You may have to provide information on accommodation details and a travel itinerary.
After that, you need to pay the applicable visa fee in either Nepalese Rupees or US Dollars. The fee varies depending on the duration of your stay. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, fees were as follows:
15-day multiple-entry tourist visa: USD 30
30-day multiple-entry tourist visa: USD 50
90-day multiple-entry tourist visa: USD 125
Documents and Information required for obtaining Permits
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card:
Information Required: For the TIMS card, you'll need to provide your personal details, including your full name, nationality, passport number, date of birth, and the dates of your trek.
Documents Required: You'll need to submit two passport-sized photos for the TIMS card application.
Sagarmatha National Park Permit:
Information Required: For the Sagarmatha National Park permit, you'll need to provide your name, nationality, passport number, and the dates of your trek.
Documents Required: You'll need to present a photocopy of your passport along with the above information for permit issuance.
Our trek operator will facilitate the entire process of obtaining these permits on your behalf. We'll ensure that all necessary information is accurately provided, assist you in preparing the required documents, and submit the applications to the appropriate authorities.