Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return - 11 days

• Flying to Lukla from Kathmandu offers the most magnificent bird' s-eye view of the Himalayan range and flying back to Kathmandu with a shared helicopter.
• Namche has a Friday Market Day; exploring it is one activity we recommend to anyone wishing to travel in this region. Visitors can visit various shops and cafes, accompanied by scenic peaks.
• Tengboche is home to the legendary monastery of the same name, one of the largest religious shrines in the region. The monastery provides spectacular views of Mount Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam.
• Hike to Dingboche and take pleasure in the change of environment to a metaphorical desert, glance at beautiful Mount Lhotse and Makalu.
• Cross through the village of Lobuche, follow the Khumbu Glacier, and follow through Stone Memorials.
• Reach Everest Base Camp, a place from where climbers embark and where the magical aura of this place lies.
• It's advisable to hike early in the morning for the best view of Mount Everest, especially the unique sunrise on Kala Patthar.
• Interact with the Sherpa people and their cultural system, and adapt to the harshest climate in the region.
• See different sceneries, ranging from forests to rocks that can visually examine the Himalayas and hike past the magnificent Khumbu Glacier, a significant feature on the route.

The geographic beauty and climbing attractions in the area that possesses cultural value makes the Everest region located in the Sagarmatha National Park of Nepal to be among the attractive tourist destinations currently. Mount Everest occupies a key position for the highest mountain range with an elevation of 8,848 meters/ 29,032 feet. Other mountains include Lhotse (8,516 m/ 27540 ft), Nuptse 7,861m/ 25900 ft and Makalu (8,485m/ 27838 ft). This area has other excellent physical characteristics including glaciers and deeper gorges that attract lovers of adventure. The appropriate time to visit the Everest region is in the spring or the fall. The weather is slightly more predictable across the seasons, which provides wonderful opportunities to see the giant Himalayan mountains.

For any visitor who wants to visit the national park, a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and permission from Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality are required to visit the Khumbu region. These kinds of permits are important in conservation and guarantee society advantage for journeying operations. The area is also blessed with a great variety of flora and fauna; inhabited by rhododendrons, rare orchids, Himalayan Tahr, Red Panda and Snow Leopard. This has enabled hikers to appreciate the aesthetics of this well-arranged biodiversity of high altitude tracts characteristic of high altitude tracts.

Cultural sightseeing includes the main area and its stunning view of Mount Everest(8,848m/29,032ft) as well as close by mountains from the Kala Patthar. Tourists also get a feel of the religious feel of Buddhist monasteries, such as the Tengboche Monastery in Tengboche, which will depict the actual living of the Sherpas people. Besides, many villages like Namche Bazaar are accessible for an encounter with locals and their advice. Far flung area of Mount Everest(8,848m/29,032ft) is not all about walking; it encapsulates the essence of the great range of Himalayas with a similar note of harmony of culture and scenic beauty.

How does the 11-day Everest Base Camp with Heli Return start and end?

Your fascinating trip of 11 Days of EBC trekking starts and ends in Kathmandu. The ever-famous Everest Base Camp trek begins as soon as one lands at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). On your arrival, the Yeti Hikes team will brief you and then take you to your accommodations. Your first meal with us is the Welcome Breakfast; the guide will then introduce the necessary equipment and direction of the following treks. The rest of the day is available to buy other necessary cruising items and to taste the first cultural and gastronomic show of the city before the real travelling begins.

Then, you’ll again have a 30 minutes’ flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing Hillary Airport Lukla, a small Sherpa village in the Khumbu region which will be the beginning of your journey. From there, you will be trekking through the tropical forest, crossing several rivers and moving from village to village through the traditional alive Sherpa settlements like Phakding and Monjo. In the next few days, you will be exploring more altitude of pinewoods, monasteries and such bewitching mountains. Namche Bazaar is the largest Sherpa trading centre; Tengboche(3,867m/12,687ft) and Dingboche(4,410m/14,469ft) are small villages where the bodies of the trekkers acclimate to high altitude next to the enormous Himalayas.

The trip is near the end. You will ascend to Kala Patthar for an excellent view of Mount Everest early in the morning. After this beautiful sightseeing, you will go back to Gorak Shep(5,164m/16,942ft). Then, you spend your valuable time and then, you will begin the trekking to return back to Lukla and from there, you will fly to Kathmandu by a shared helicopter. We shall say our final thank you, and that brings us to the end of the 11 days of Everest Base Camp with Heli Return.

Altitude Distance Coverage of Everest Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return

Best season/ time for Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return Trek

The best time for Everest Base Camp Trek doesn't matter if you are interested and willing to take risks, but it depends on your preferences. However, according to Yeti Hikes, the best season for this trek is either Spring or Autumn, when the weather and temperature are worth traveling around Nepal.

Spring (March-May)

The rates of average day temperatures are 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at low levels of altitude, while the temperature at night can drop to 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). With that, you'll get to experience explosive growth of flora, rhododendrons, and other wildflowers, especially in the lower altitudes. You'll get to explore enhanced wildlife activity with the opportunity to spot the Himalayan Tahr and Musk Deer and various bird species. You'll get to witness a significant Buddhist festival, Buddha Jayanti, that brings life and color to the monasteries in the Everest Region with local festival celebrations (Dashain, Tihar) along with farming practices and seasonal livelihoods. The trails are primarily available this season, and light precipitation may sometimes happen. Villages look cleaner, and you will have clear views of Mount Everest(8,848m/16,207ft), Lhotse(8,516m/27,940ft), Ama Dablam(6,812m/22,349ft), and many other great peaks.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn has fewer showers than monsoon, making the trails less slippery when they dry up after several hours of dew. Day temperatures in autumn are between 10 °C to 20 °C (50°F to 68°F) in lowlands, and night temperatures are approximately 0 °C to 10 °C (32°F to 50°F). Wildlife appears active, with favorable sights, winter Himalayan Tahr and different bird types can be seen. The sky is apparent, allowing one to clearly see some of the most enormous mountains, such as Mount Everest(8,848m/16,207ft), Lhotse(8,516m/27,940ft), and Ama Dablam(6,812m/22,349ft). In a cultural sense, autumn is exceptional in the region, particularly the festivals of Dashain and Tihar, which are the colors of the festival with great joy. Such fairs give life and paint monasteries and villages full of local colors. The trails are relatively more accessible to negotiate and, for the most part, passable even during this season, which is why it is the best time for trekking and discovering the beauty of the region. There can be light rain, but it is not very frequent and does not interfere with outdoor activities.

The Everest Base Camp(5,364m/17,598ft) adventure is usually accomplished in two seasons which are spring and autumn; it is because the temperatures are consistent and clear skies give a good view of the mountains. During the monsoon season, there will be frequent rainfalls, which will make the trails slippery and increase the danger of landslides and poor visibility. On the contrary, the winter season is characterized by extremely low temperatures, frequent snowfalls, and lousy weather, complicating the possibility of trekking and even creating dangerous conditions. Both seasons make mountain conditions unsuitable for trekking, so spring and autumn are the best times for a safer and more pleasant trip.

Accommodation during the Everest Base Camp Trek with heli return

Kathmandu Accommodation EBC trekking

Upon arrival and departure, you'll have a total of 2 nights in a designated hotel, which is comfortable and well-maintained for 3-star hotels in the core of Thamel, tourists' central point. Hotels include:

• Lo Mustang Hotel
• Ramada Encore Hotel
• Moonlight Hotel
• Thamel Park Hotel

Your inn includes a shared room or a room for two and a welcome and farewell dinner. All rooms provide a private bathroom, a TV, and enough storage for your luggage. If you wish for solo accommodation or an inclusive stay, you can upgrade to a 4- or 5-star hotel at an additional cost.

Everest base camp accommodation during the trek

Many teahouses and lodges are available to trekkers throughout the trekking route. They provide the bare necessities, such as a dormitory or private accommodation couched with shared bath facilities. Even though facilities differ, bedding, hot showers, and heat for the living room and dinner area are common, and trekkers can move around and socialize after a tiring day of adventure. The dining areas offer a number of local and worldwide meals; trekkers can taste Sherpa Cuisine in the area.

Since tea houses are located in various villages, including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche, they help travelers rest and acclimate. In conclusion, teahouses allow one to get acquainted with the profiles and coziness of the districts one passes through and get a comfortable place to rest during the entire route.

Toilet/ Bathroom facilities during the EBC trekking with Helicopter reurn

Available toilet facilities during the Everest Base Camp Trek again depend on altitude as well as the kind of accommodation one is undertaking. In the lower villages such as Lukla and Namche Bazaar, trekkers to livestock lodges and teahouses can expect western-style toilets. Sometimes, the teahouses found at the higher altitudes are comparatively primitive, and you may have to face the locally styled squat toilets, which are also prevalent in Nepal. This makes them less favored, not often cleaned or may not be cleaned at all sometimes. One should also pack their personal effects, such as rolls of tissue paper and alcoholic hand sanitizers because they are mostly not disinfected or missing. Moreover, it may be required that trekkers pay an amount for lavatories available in few areas of the region. Water may also be unavailable for flushing or washing hands. Therefore, people are encouraged to wash their hands at appropriate times with available water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Bathroom facilities, which often include showers and washing areas, also vary significantly along the trek. In lower areas, like Namche Bazaar, many tea houses offer hot showers, either through electric heaters or gas-powered systems, sometimes for an additional fee. These facilities may also include Western-style sinks and running water. As you climb higher, however, hot water availability becomes more limited, and some teahouses may only provide cold water or no running water at all. You can expect basic bathing facilities, and in higher altitudes, many may have to settle for sponge baths or wet wipes due to the lack of showers. In terms of the common wash can be substandard. In summary, you all need to be ready for differences in comfort for toilets and bathrooms all through the trek to EBC, as well as differences in cleanliness and water sources in remote areas.

Outline itinerary for Everest Base camp trek with Helicopter Return

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Day 2: Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar
Day 5: Trek to Tengboche
Day 6: Trek to Dingboche
Day 7: Acclimatization day at Dingboche, hike to Nangkartshang Peak
Day 8: Trek to Lobuche
Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp through Gorakshep
Day 10: Round Trek to Kala Patthar, descend to Gorak Shep and shared helicopter ride to Lukla
Day 11: Flight back to Kathmandu

• All airport pick up drop by private vehicle - for both international and domestic flights.
• Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant.
• Twin/double sharing accommodation in BB in Kathmandu.
• Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu with private vehicle.
• Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
• National Park entrance fee and Trekkers' Information Management System, TIMS card.
• A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking, well-trained, Government-licensed guide. The price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
• 02 guests to 01 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment.
• We provide an assistant guide, his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance walking with a group to support where necessary as per the group size.
• Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking period.
• Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
• Safe drinking water.
• Flight from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla and return back.
• Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant.
• First add kit box.
• Yeti Hikes's sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirt, cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
• Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).
• Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate-twice daily during the trek-a very useful way to check AMS symptoms. This helps to make sure that your trek is in the safest hands possible.
• One-hour complimentary spa/massage in Kathmandu after the trek.
• All the applicable government and local taxes as per the itinerary.

• The fees associated with your Nepal visa.
• All international air fares to and from Kathmandu.
• Lunch and supper in Kathmandu.
• Insurance for helicopter evacuation, as well as personal travel and health insurance.
• Extra nights of accommodation, lunch, and dinner in the city may be required in the event of an early arrival or late departure, as well as an early return from a mountain or trekking excursion for any reason, exceeding the specified itinerary timeframe. We are able to assist you in securing additional nights of lodging.
• Your personal expenses, including laundry, baggage charges, phone calls, battery recharges, bar and beverage bills, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold showers and an additional attendant, are as follows.
• The tips for the trekking personnel and drivers.
• Additional expenses that arise as a result of flight delays, strikes, weather conditions, or any other event beyond our control.

Required Documents and Permits for Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter Return

Considering the Everest Base Camp Trek with helicopter return, which takes 11 days, several documents and permits are required due to its location. Here's a breakdown of the licences you'll need:

Passport and Visa

• You'll need a valid passport (valid for at least six months) and a Nepal tourist visa. The visa can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• For a 11-day trek, the 30-day visa is ideal, as it costs around US$ 50.

Travel Insurance

• It is not mandatory, but you must have a travel insurance policy covering trekking at a higher altitude. Always keep a photocopy of your insurance policy and emergency numbers.

Medical Certificate

• It is required as some may request a medical certificate to confirm the absence of chronic diseases and the ability to undertake strenuous activities.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

• You'll need this permit to enter the Sagarmatha National Park.
• Cost: US$22 per person.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit

• You'll need this permit to enter the Khumbu Region, including the EBC trek.
• Cost: US$22 per person.

Trekking Information Management System (TIMS)

A TIMS card is typically required for trekking in Nepal, but for this hike, the "Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit" takes precedence, so you don't need a TIMS card if you have both the permits as mentioned above.

Documents Required to Apply Permit Applications:

• A clear passport-size scanned copy of the passport has a validity of at least six months.
• Passport-sized photos as per requirements.
• Trekking Itinerary Details.
• Cash (Nepalese Rupees) for permit fees.
• Additional documents are required as specified by the permit office or trekking agency.

You should obtain the permits through a registered trekking agency and check with them to ensure all the paperwork is in order before starting your trek. You can visit the Permits and Cost page for more information regarding permits and documents.

How secure is it to go for an Everest Base Camp Trekking with Helicopter return?

The EBC trek with heli return is pleasant yet very volatile, and safety prevails throughout the trekking area. A helicopter tour to Everest is generally considered safe. Firstly, the team of Yeti Hikes recommends you start your trek early in the pre-monsoon season, which is from March to the end of May, and the other second best season is post-monsoon, from September to the middle of November. In these seasons, the status of the trails is more constant than in other seasons, as the above information illustrates. That is why preparing for adverse weather conditions is one of the easiest, especially if you always check the weather calendar to know the changes. The same may happen with the rain or snow, which is why one must always be prepared and have on themselves the proper and needed clothing and equipment, which means including warm and waterproof clothing.

Second, is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). To minimize it, one must pay attention to her body and learn the signs of symptoms including headaches and dizziness. Both physical and mental fitness are required for a successful EBC trek. You can start by increasing your physical stability with exercises through other athletic activities. It would be best if you were stress-free and mainly concentrate on enjoying yourself and your health. Meditation, deep breathing, and stretching is essential to mental strength because you need to be self-confident, composed, and motivated. 

The trekking routes are isolated and need to be more easily transportable. You need to carry a first-aid kit for emergencies. Joint injuries are typical and can be covered by first-aid kits, but there are more unavoidable injuries and life-threatening issues. So, travel insurance is required because of the remote areas and minimum medical facilities.

Last, but not least, we, Yeti Hikes, tag experienced guides and porters to add extra safety and support during your trek. In the field, they can assist in directing you to the place or contain any incident that may happen on the trail. It is almost impossible to communicate in these areas, so you should take a satellite phone or GPS device to call for help in case of an emergency. With these measures instituted, the EBC journey shall be as full of fun as it should be and as safe as possible.

What to do to avoid AMS during the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the primary concerns for every traveler. Prevention is possible, but some solutions decrease it significantly enough to be worth considering.

The common symptoms of AMS are as follows:

• Headache.
• Nausea and Vomiting.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue.
• Loss of Appetite.
• Difficulty in Sleep.
• Increase in Heart Rate.
• Swelled Body Parts.

Severe AMS can lead to life-threatening conditions and complications like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

Avoiding it is crucial, but some effective preventions (strategies) can minimize it.

• Acclimatization: In this, it will be most advisable to climb gradually and progressively, giving the body time to acclimatize to the rising altitude and also to include rest days in one's climbing schedule
• Stay Hydrated: Hydration can effectively reverse the AMS slowly, over time. Ideally, one should drink 3-4 liters of water daily, and alcohol and caffeine should be avoided to the maximum.
• Nutrition: Please pay attention to eating carbohydrate-rich foods like rice, fruits, and breads, among others, in small portions since they ease digestion and provide energy.
• Physical stability and medications: Intensive care patients are not receiving commonly prescribed medications, likely due to their physical stability and consequent lack of agitation. Agreeing that your body needs to be ready for vigorous activities in order to improve strength and endurance; taking essential medicines (first aid kit) for headaches or nausea is compulsory.
• Monitor your body: To minimize the risk, you need to learn to be sensitive to signals from your physical body, such as headaches and dizziness.

Detailed Information about flying into Lukla

Lukla Airport, Tenzing Hillary Airport, is also referred to as the gateway to 'Mount Everest', established at an unbelievably challenging height- the Himalayas. Its runway is short and the end of the strip is located near a cliff; therefore, each landing takes the flavor of a thrilling experience. You'll feel this rush of excitement as you'll be greeted with the icy mountains and the thought of the next day.

• Lukla flight from Ramecchap/ Manthali Airport: Flying from Ramechhap/Manthali provides an alternative starting point for your Everest Base Camp adventure. After a scenic 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu, you'll board a short 20-minute flight to Lukla. During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights are often redirected to Ramechhap due to the heavy air traffic at Kathmandu's airport, making this route more efficient and less crowded.
• Direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla: During the off-season, you can directly fly from Kathmandu airport to Lukla airport, which will take you almost 35 minutes to reach.

It is essential to understand that flights may vary depending on the airline and factors like unfavourable weather, runway issues, etc. To cover this, Yeti Hikes recommends adding an extra day or two to your Everest Base Camp hike plan.

Baggage allowances in Lukla's flight

The aircraft used for the flight to Lukla is comparatively smaller, and according to the airline's guidelines, you should pack light for safety concerns.

• Total Baggage Limit: 15 kg (33 lbs) per person
• Checked Luggage: 10 kg (22 lbs)
• Carry-On: 5 kg (11 lbs)

Space availability may be increased with additional cost. However, it is recommended to halt with a 15 kg (33 lbs) limit.

Travel Insurance for EBC trek with Heli Return

The trail routes are isolated and aren't easily transport accessible. Joint injuries are standard but there are more unavoidable injuries as well as life-threatening issues. So, travel insurance is required because of the remote areas and minimum medical facilities. In case of life-threatening injuries, you have to return back to Kathmandu, which is quite time-consuming for roadways, and hence, airways (helicopter, aeroplane) insurance is necessary for urgent evacuation.

Why is it important?

• High-altitude Coverage: The Everest Base Camp reaches an altitude of over 5,555 meters (18, 225 FT) at Kala Patthar, so you need insurance that covers adventure above 5,000 meters.
• Medical Expenses & Evacuation: Your insurance should cover emergency medical treatment and evacuation (including helicopter rescue) in case of altitude sickness, injuries, or other medical emergencies. The remote nature of the hike makes helicopter evacuation the fastest and safest option.
• Trip Cancellation & Interruption: If unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, accidents, or natural disasters, force you to cancel or cut short your journey, ensure your insurance covers trip cancellations and interruptions.
• Lost or Delayed Baggage: The adventure involves traveling with essential gear. Insurance should cover lost or delayed baggage, especially if you lose crucial items like trekking gear or documents.
• Personal Liability: This coverage will protect you in case of accidental damage to property or injury to others during your trek.
• Repatriation: In the unlikely event of death or severe medical conditions, your insurance should cover the costs of repatriation back to your home country.

Recommended Providers

Many insurance providers offer travel insurance tailored to high-altitude trekking in Nepal, such as:

• World Nomads
• InsureMyTrip
• Global Rescue
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Tipping suggestions for your Everest Base Camp Heli Return

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; always express your kindness. It is a massive culture in trekking industry common practice as well, hence, you are suggested to set aside 10% to 15% of your total trek cost to support guides and porters. Consider pooling tips with your group and carry small denominations of Nepali Rupees for ease in trekking.

Phones and Gadgets charging

EBC trek and phone charging can be best achieved with some planning. As you move on, charging services are available at most teahouses but will charge you extra. So, carrying a high-capacity portable battery charger (power bank) is recommended. Carry appropriate adapters, two-pin or three-pin, solely depending on the outlets available and the best-quality cables with you. To save battery, set low brightness and close all unnecessary applications when unnecessary. Also, carry extra batteries for the torch, camera to capture memories, and other gadgets such as GPS Device, Portable Speaker, Fitness Tracker, Satellite Phone, etc. You can either bring these things or buy them in Kathmandu.

Food and Beverage options during the EBC trek

You'll find various food options at teahouses and lodges along the trek. 

As the options may be limited, it is recommended that you carry bottled water for drinking, energy bars, nuts, chocolates, and biscuits. Alcohol drinks are also available but not favored as it may increase the risk of AMS and dehydration.

Internet and WiFi -availability along the EBC trek

During the Everest Base Camp, staying connected requires choosing the right mobile service provider and internet packages.

These are some of the following options available:

• Local SIM Cards: You can easily purchase local SIM cards around airport areas and shops, but you'll need to present a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.
• Popular and Roaming Packages: Ncell, NTC, and Airlink SIM provide packages. If you prefer to keep your home SIM, get help from your guide for international roaming packages. However, roaming charges can be expensive.
• Pocket Wi-Fi Rentals: You can rent or buy a portable Wi-Fi device in Kathmandu. This device provides internet access for multiple devices and can be a convenient option for groups.

Extra Expenses for Everest base camp trek

With the trek cost of the entire trip, including the tips, it is recommended to carry extra cash to purchase essential snacks and beverages. Depending on your choice and preferences, having a flexible budget is required to buy souvenirs or post-trek celebrations. There is no hidden cost with Yeti Hikes and we recommend bringing smaller bills.

Can a beginner trek Everest Base Camp with Heli Return?

Beginners can easily trek any region with adequate physical fitness and a strong mentality. Trekking to Everest Base Camp can be quite challenging, requiring 5 to 8 hours of walking each day on uneven terrain. This difficulty can be significantly pronounced without prior experience and adequate training. However, there is always time to take on this adventure! Starters can focus on building their physical fitness and maintaining a positive mindset, ensuring they are well-prepared to embark on this incredible journey whenever they are ready.

For a 11 day Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek with Helicopter return, you’ll need to pack efficiently to stay comfortable and prepared for the range of weather and trail conditions. Here’s a list of essential items:

Clothing

1. Base Layers

   • Thermal tops and bottoms (for warmth at night).
   • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (2-3, quick-dry fabric).
   • Lightweight trekking pants (convertible into shorts if possible).

2. Insulating Layers

   • Fleece jacket or sweater.
   • Insulated down jacket (for colder nights and higher altitudes).

3. Outer Layers

   • Waterproof and windproof jacket.
   • Waterproof pants.

4. Hiking Socks

   • Wool or synthetic socks (3-4 pairs).
   • Liner socks (optional, to prevent blisters).

5. Accessories

   • Hat (for sun protection).
   • Beanie or warm hat (for higher altitudes).
   • Buff or scarf (to protect against wind and dust).
   • Gloves (both lightweight and insulated if possible).

Footwear

1. Hiking Boots
   • Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots (well-broken-in).
2. Camp Shoes
   • Lightweight sandals or camp shoes for resting in the evenings.

Backpacks

1. Daypack (20-30L)
   • For essentials like snacks, water, and rain gear.
2. Duffel Bag (if using porters)
   • You may need a duffel for the bulk of your gear if you’re hiring porters.

Trekking Gear

1. Trekking Poles

   • Helpful for balance and reducing stress on knees.

2. Sleeping Bag

   • Rated for temperatures below freezing (around -10°C/14°F).

3. Water Bottles

   • Reusable bottles or a hydration bladder (2-3 liters capacity).

4. Water Purification

   • Tablets, drops, or a portable filter to avoid purchasing bottled water.

5. Headlamp

   • With extra batteries (essential for early starts or evening walks).

6. Sunglasses

   • UV protection to safeguard against strong sunlight at altitude.

7. Trekking Map and Compass

   • Optional, but can help you follow along with the route.

Toiletries

1. Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
2. Lip Balm (with SPF)
3. Toilet Paper
4. Wet Wipes
5. Hand Sanitizer
6. Biodegradable Soap/Shampoo
7. Toothbrush and Toothpaste

First Aid & Medication

1. Personal Medication

   • Bring a sufficient supply of any prescribed medications.

2. Basic First Aid Kit

   • Painkillers, blister care (like moleskin), band-aids, and antiseptic cream.

3. Altitude Sickness Medication

   • Such as acetazolamide (consult your doctor before taking).

Snacks and Energy Foods

1. High-Energy Snacks
   • Protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, or energy gels for extra fuel on the trail.

Electronics

1. Camera/Phone

   • For capturing memories.

2. Portable Charger/Power Bank

   • Charging points may be scarce and expensive.

3. Spare Batteries

   • Cold weather can drain batteries quickly.

Miscellaneous

1. Money

   • Carry enough cash for food, charging, and tips in remote areas.

2. Trekking Permits and Passport Copies

   • Ensure you have copies of your TIMS and ACAP permits, as well as your passport.

3. Small Locks

   • For your bags.

Packing wisely makes a big difference on the Everest Base Camp trek with helicopter return. Since the helicopter has a weight limit, focus on essentials and keep your load manageable. Safe travels!