Introduction to 7 Days Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
Experience the best of the Everest Base Camp Trek without the arduous long hiking! This 7-day trip takes you through the lower reaches of the Everest Region with its pine forests and raging ice-cold rivers, into Sagarmatha National Park, and up to Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
Experience the best of the Everest Base Camp Trek without the arduous long hiking! This 7-day trip takes you through the lower reaches of the Everest Region with its pine forests and raging ice-cold rivers, into Sagarmatha National Park, and up to Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
Experience the history of the Sherpa community as well as follow the footsteps of those first famous climbers, Edmund Hillary and Tenzin Norgay in Namche.
Then breathe in the rarified air mixed with oil prayer lamps at Tengboche Monastery while meeting the Buddhist monks and participating in a puja (when possible).
All this while taking in the panoramic view of the Himalayan mountains from the same location. A wonderful helicopter ride takes you over Everest Base Camp to land at Kalapattar, with its even more wonderous views of Mt Everest before taking the helicopter back to Kathmandu. This 7-day EBC trek is the best suitable option for those who don’t have time for 14 days Everest base camp trek
With three days of trekking, some hiking around the interesting spots of Namche, and half a day on board a helicopter, you get all the adventure of Everest base camp packed into 5 days of memories.
Also included in this tour is accommodation the night before and the night after the trip.
Highlights of the 7-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!
Kathmandu – 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
You will be met from your flight to the TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) by our staff who will accompany you to your hotel for the night.
Your hotel is in a prime location, with everything visiting travelers could need, including trekking shops in case you have forgotten something!
Later, you will get a chance to ask any questions to your guide and get to know him before the trek.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding
Phakding – 2,651 m / 8,697 ft
Your trip starts with an early morning road journey from your hotel in Kathmandu to Manthali Airport in Ramecchap District, some four hours’ drive away. Since your flight to Lukla takes place around 6 a.m., you need to leave Kathmandu very early. The short flight takes only 20 minutes and during that exhilarating flight, you will forget about the road trip to get there.
Once you land in Lukla, our team of porters will greet you and your guide will get you on the right path heading out of Lukla to your first overnight at Phakding. Interestingly, despite some uphill parts, the trail to Phakding takes you to a lower altitude than you landed at in Lukla. Part of the reason for that acclimatization day in Namche.
Today the trail is not too difficult, with stone and rocky paths and lots of green pines. The Dudh Koshi is the river most prominent today. After the early start from Kathmandu, it’s a relief to reach the lodge for an early night in preparation for Day 2.

Phakding
Day 3: Phakding to Namche
Namche – 3,440 m / 11,286 ft
A bit more greenery and forests and some plowed fields and yak pastures around small villages are on the menu today. Today we pass through the gateway into Sagarmatha National Park. Then its on to Namche Bazaar.
As you may know, Namche is the biggest Sherpa town in the region and is famous for being the last main stop on the route to Everest. For decades trekkers and mountaineers have made their way up the path to Namche, stopping to buy last-minute purchases and prepare themselves for what is ahead.

Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche
Namche – 3,700 m / 12,139 ft
In order to endure the high altitude and low oxygen, our bodies need to acclimatize. Here at Namche, everyone takes an extra day to allow their bodies to adjust. The best way to adjust is, believe it or not, to be active. This is a perfect day for exploring Sherpa culture, exploring the legacy that Edmund Hilary left behind, and simply enjoying being out in the Himalayas.
We suggest walking to Khumjung village to see the school set up by Hillary. And we also suggest stopping to enjoy, and photograph, some of the mountains on display. These include Thamserku (6,623m), Lhotse (8,516m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), and of course Mount Everest at the record-breaking 8,848m. Among others.
By now you are feeling part of the community of trekkers and mountaineers and joining the conversation over dinner.
Note: These timings are approximate and may change based on trekking pace and trail conditions.
Day 5: Namche to Tengboche
Tengboche – 3,956m / 12,979 ft – 5 to 6 hrs
While Namche is a Buddhist town, the route between Namche and Tengboche is even more colorful with prayer flags, mani walls, and stupas – all related to the Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Climbing the switchback road to Tengboche with its monastery, we see great mountains and a great panorama once we reach the monastery.
We may have an opportunity to join the monks in prayer and private contemplation and lighting of lamps for loved ones is always available. A small donation will be much appreciated.
We sleep in Tengboche tonight. Or try to sleep, for tomorrow is a big day!
Note: These timings are approximate and may change based on trekking pace and trail conditions.

Tengboche Monastery
Day 6: Tengboche to Everest Base Camp by Helicopter, Landing at Kalapathar, Helicopter from EBC to Kathmandu and car to hotel
Kalapathar -5,545 m/ 18,192 ft
After breakfast, we board a helicopter to fly over Everest Base Camp and land at Kalapathar. It is not possible to land a non-emergency helicopter at the base camp, so we land on Kalapathar at the height of 5,600m / 18,000 ft. Kalapathar is a well-known viewpoint for Everest and it is from here you get the best views.
Much better than at base camp because at base camp we stand too close to the mountain to get a good view. From Kalapathar we feel we can reach out and touch the mountains. Due to the altitude and high winds, we can only land for 10 to 15 minutes but that is plenty of time to take photographs and fix the scene in your memory.
While flying we will also see the Khumbu Ice Fall and other glaciers. Also, perhaps some mountaineers are far below. Then it is time to turn the helicopter around and head back to Kathmandu. Kathmandu brings us back to reality as we reach the bustling capital city in time for lunch.
You will be escorted back to your hotel and the rest of the day is yours to explore, shop, or relax.
Note: These timings are approximate and may change based on trekking pace and trail conditions

Kala Pathar
Machhermo
Day 7: Final Departure
Kathmandu – 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
Our representative will accompany you to the airport for your departure.
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Packing List
Items | Details | Quantity |
---|---|---|
Underwear | Underwear Breathable synthetic | 3 |
Socks | Wool BYO | 3 |
Bra | Sports BYO | |
Base layers – Pants | Merino wool BYO | 1 |
Trekking shirt | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase it in Kathmandu | 2 |
Rain pants | Synthetic lightweight Frogg Toggs are excellent | 1 |
Trekking pants | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase in Ktm | 2 |
Hiking Shoes/Boots | BYO Salmon Quest 4D or Xultra 3 or 4 | 1 |
Camp shoes | Down booties BYO or purchase in Ktm | 1 |
Gloves | One pair of thin merino wool. 2nd pair thick insulated | 2 |
Hat | Sun hat or peak cap with neck protection. BYO | 1 |
Down Jacket | BYO | 1 |
Wind Breaker | BYO | 1 |
Note: Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu, while all other trekking equipment can be easily purchased. We at Magical Nepal will assist you in getting all your essentials sorted, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure.
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight
Due to recent government regulations, there are no direct flights from Kathmandu to Ramechap. As a result, we must undertake a six-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechap. Since there are no good hotels in the area, we will need to depart at 1:00 AM to catch our flight to Lukla from Ramechap.
Read Before your book Everest Base Camp 7 Days Trek
To help you determine if the Everest Base Camp 7 Days Trek is right for you, we’ve provided detailed information on key aspects such as flight details, trek difficulty, and the best times to visit. Each section also includes a video explanation to guide you in planning your trip smoothly.
If you’re still unsure whether this trek is the perfect choice for you, feel free to reach out to us via email or WhatsApp. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours to answer any additional questions.
Physical Challenges
The 7-day Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return involves long trekking hours, typically 5 to 8 hours daily, over steep and rugged terrain. High-altitude trekking reduces oxygen levels, increasing fatigue and making breathing more difficult. Cold temperatures and unpredictable weather, especially at higher elevations, can add to the difficulty.
Fitness Preparation
To prepare physically, trekkers should focus on cardiovascular training, such as hiking, running, cycling, and swimming, to build stamina. Engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of cardio exercises 4 to 5 times a week is ideal. Strength training is essential to build endurance in the legs, core, and upper body through exercises like squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups. Gradually building endurance by going on long hikes with a weighted backpack helps simulate trekking conditions. Adding yoga or stretching routines improves flexibility and balance, reducing the risk of injury.
Mental Preparation
Mental preparation is equally important. Trekkers should prepare for physical exhaustion, unpredictable weather, and basic accommodation. Practices like mindfulness and visualization help manage fatigue and mental stress. Setting realistic goals helps trekkers stay motivated and focused throughout the trek.
Overcoming Physical Challenges
To overcome physical challenges, trekkers should walk at a steady, comfortable pace to conserve energy. Taking regular breaks and listening to their bodies is essential. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet supports stamina and strength. Following the itinerary’s acclimatization schedule is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. iconic mountaineering routes.
Choosing the right time to embark on the 7-day Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is essential for a safe and rewarding experience. The best seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offering favorable weather conditions and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Spring (March to May)
Weather: Spring is one of the most popular times for the EBC trek due to its mild temperatures and clear skies. The weather is generally stable, making it ideal for trekking.
Temperature: Daytime temperatures can reach up to 14°C (57°F) in areas like Namche Bazaar, while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
Advantages: This season offers vibrant landscapes with blooming rhododendron forests and longer daylight hours, providing ample time for trekking and photography.
Autumn (September to November)
Weather: Post-monsoon autumn brings stable weather and crystal-clear skies, perfect for panoramic mountain views.
Temperature: Daytime temperatures typically range from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop between -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F).
Advantages: This season offers unparalleled mountain vistas, comfortable temperatures, and festive local celebrations like Mani Rimdu.
Winter (December to February)
Weather: Winter brings clear skies but freezing temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
Temperature: Daytime temperatures hover around 4°C (39°F), and nighttime temperatures can plummet to -17°C (1°F).
Considerations: Trails are less crowded, providing a peaceful trekking experience. However, snow and ice can make the trek more challenging.
Monsoon (June to August)
Weather: The monsoon season is characterized by heavy rainfall, leading to slippery trails and obscured mountain views.
Temperature: Warm temperatures but high humidity and frequent rainfall.
Considerations: Although the landscape is lush and green, leeches, landslides, and flight delays are common.
For the best experience on the Everest Base Camp trek, plan your journey during spring or autumn. These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and breathtaking views, making your trek safe, comfortable, and truly memorable.
Regardless of the fact you are in the region for only a short period of time and are taking a helicopter back out again, you still need to buy permits. These permits help to ensure the region remains beautiful. But please play your part also in ensuring the beauty of the countryside and the integrity of the locals are maintained.
There are two permits required as detailed below. One is for the Sagarmatha National Park. Like all the national parks in Nepal, a fee is collected from all visitors.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:
This permit allows access to the Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest.
- Cost: NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 25) per person.
- Where to Get It: Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the park entrance in Monjo.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit:
Introduced in 2018, this permit is required for entry into the Khumbu region.
- Cost: NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 17) per person.
- Where to Get It: Purchased in Lukla or Monjo at the entry checkpoint.
Permit Cost Variations: Permit costs are fixed but may change depending on government policies. Prices are generally consistent year-round, but it’s wise to check for updates before your trek.
How to Obtain Permits: Trekkers can obtain permits in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board offices or arrange them through trekking agencies like Magical Nepal. Trekking agencies handle the permit process, saving trekkers time and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Altitude sickness is a serious issue for people trekking to Everest Base Camp because of the high altitude. It’s very important to know the signs early and take steps to stay safe. Trekking with a trusted company like Magical Nepal means you’ll have trained guides who know how to spot and manage altitude sickness, giving you extra safety and support.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Signs of altitude sickness include headaches, feeling sick, feeling dizzy, being very tired, not feeling hungry, and having trouble breathing. In more serious cases, people can get confused, have trouble walking, and even have dangerous fluid buildup in their lungs or brain. This is called High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).
Prevention Strategies
To prevent altitude sickness, it’s important to go up slowly and take rest days to let your body adjust. Drinking lots of water, eating healthy food, and staying away from alcohol and smoking can help. Some trekkers take a medicine called Diamox (acetazolamide) with advice from a doctor. Magical Nepal plans treks with enough rest days and gives expert tips to help you avoid getting sick.
Handling Altitude Sickness
If you start feeling sick, you should stop and rest. Don’t climb higher until you feel better. The best way to treat altitude sickness is to go down to a lower altitude. If it gets worse, going down quickly and getting medical help is very important. Magical Nepal makes sure their treks are safe by providing oxygen tanks and having plans for emergency evacuations, so you can feel safe during your trek.
Food and accommodation are important parts of the Everest Base Camp experience. Trekkers will stay in teahouses and lodges along the route, offering a warm and comfortable place to rest after long trekking days. These teahouses are run by local families, providing a cozy atmosphere and a chance to experience Sherpa hospitality.
Food Options on the 7 Day Everest Base Camp Trek
Trekkers can enjoy a mix of local and international meals. Popular local dishes include Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. For those craving familiar tastes, teahouses also serve pasta, pancakes, fried rice, and even pizza. Breakfast usually includes eggs, toast, porridge, and tea or coffee. Snacks like energy bars and boiled potatoes are also available to keep energy levels up during the trek.
Accommodation on the 7 Day Everest Base Camp Trek
Most trekkers stay in teahouses, which are basic but comfortable lodges. Rooms are typically twin-shared with beds, blankets, and pillows. Bathrooms may be shared, and hot showers are available for an extra fee. Some teahouses have common dining areas with wood stoves, perfect for warming up in the evenings. Higher up the trail, facilities become more basic due to remote locations.
A Typical Day on the Base Camp Trek
Here we would normally detail out what happens on your trek. But your trek is not a ‘normal’ one. So there is no ‘typical’ day as such! Your five-day trip is different every day. What will be the same is the high standard of guidance, reassurance and care you will receive from our guide; the high quality and range of local Sherpa cuisine and western fare; the stunning mountain views; the early starts and early to sleep, and experience of your pilot and high quality of helicopter provided.
As with all treks in the Everest Region, there are some things you need to know before you go.
Remember your insurance must cover you for trekking and for trekking up to 5,000 m / 16404 ft.
Flights to the Everest Region now depart from Ramchhap airport in the east of the country. Ramchhap is several hours’ drive from Kathmandu, so we leave Kathmandu at 1 am to reach there for the early morning flight that is necessary in the mountains as high winds tend to occur in the afternoon.
It is unusual for helicopters to be delayed due to bad weather, but sometimes planes can be delayed. So we request our clients not to book their international flights home the day after arriving in Kathmandu. Leave some days space in case of delays due to bad weather in the mountains.
We require a copy of your passport in order to book the domestic flight. Please send us a copy when you book your trip.
Porters are included in this package but please remember they are human too! One porter can only carry 20kg. So please pack lightly. We will provide you with a bag/duffle bag that is easy for porters to carry.
Airlines have a weight limit of 15kg per person.
Not included in the package are hot and cold drinks, alcohol, and extra food. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, however. Also not included is the cost the lodge will charge for a hot shower and for charging your devices. Please bring Nepali rupees with you for this.
As an indication as to how much money to bring: hot showers are $3 to $5 and charging your battery is $1 to $3. Beer will cost around Rs700 to Rs1,000 and cold drinks will be around Rs 400, as will café latte and americano – when available on the lower slopes.
A Wi-Fi card is available in Lukla or Namche Bazaar at everestlink for $25. Data can be used over 30 days only in the Everest Region. We cannot guarantee the Wi-Fi quality – it will depend on the weather and location.
If the weather does change, please follow your guide’s advice and be patient.
Drones are not permitted without permission. It is extremely hard to obtain permission.
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Everest Base Camp Trek Map
