If you want to experience more in one epic Himalayan journey then the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return is made for you.
This unique route lets you explore all six stunning Gokyo Lakes—Gokyo Cho, Thonak Cho, Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho, Ngojumba Cho, and Longpanga Cho—each more mesmerizing than the last. From there, you’ll tackle the breathtaking Cho La Pass (5,420m), one of the most dramatic high-altitude crossings in the Khumbu region.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. You’ll continue on to two of the Everest region’s most iconic landmarks: the dramatic Kala Patthar viewpoint (5,545m), offering unbeatable views of Mount Everest, and of course, the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m) itself.
What makes this trek even more unforgettable? A scenic helicopter flight back to Kathmandu from Gorakshep. This not only saves days of descent but also gives you an aerial perspective of the Khumbu Glacier, Ama Dablam, Everest, Thamserku, Lhotse, and other towering giants—an unforgettable finale to your Himalayan journey.
15 days / 14 nights EBC via Gokyo Heli Return trip
Breathe Deep in the Everest Region
Highlights
- Take in breathtaking Himalayan views—including Mount Everest—from iconic viewpoints like Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar.
- Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes, famous for their turquoise waters and scenic surroundings.
- Trek along less crowded trails, offering a more peaceful and immersive alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp route.
- Return to Kathmandu by helicopter, combining convenience with spectacular aerial views.
- Save time on the return journey, giving you more flexibility to explore other parts of Nepal.
- Trek with experienced guides who ensure your safety and share insights into the region’s landscape and culture.
- Stay in comfortable teahouses that offer essential amenities and a warm place to rest after each day’s hike.
- Engage with local Sherpa communities and gain a deeper appreciation of their unique culture and traditions.
- Achieve the milestone of reaching Everest Base Camp, enhanced by the added excitement of a helicopter return.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. Once you're settled at the hotel, we will schedule a trip briefing at the hotel lobby or restaurant.
Your EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return begins with exhilarating flight from Kathmandu to Lukla in helicopter, offering an early glimpse of the stunning Himalayan landscape.
From Lukla, the trek to Phakding begins, winding through lush forests, Sherpa villages, and along the Dudh Koshi River. The gentle terrain and peaceful surroundings provide the perfect introduction to the journey ahead.
Colorful prayer flags and the warm hospitality of locals add cultural richness to today’s hike, offering a balanced blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
On the second day, leave Phakding and head towards the vibrant Namche Bazaar. The trail offers glimpses of the stunning scenery ahead, winding through rhododendron forests and crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
As you ascend, you’ll catch your first view of the impressive Thamserku, Kongde Ri, and other Himalayan peaks. Namche Bazaar, a lively Sherpa village nestled in the Himalayas, offers a stunning backdrop of towering peaks.
Namche serves as a perfect spot for acclimatization, combining modern amenities with cultural immersion. It’s a great place to relax, restock, and explore the local markets.
Acclimatization is crucial for high-altitude trekkers to adjust to the environment. To aid in this, you can hike to the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest hotels in the region.
From the hotel, enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde. After a tea or coffee break, descend to the Sherpa village of Khumjung for lunch.
You may also visit the Khumjung Monastery, which is said to house a Yeti’s scalp. Upon returning to Namche, relax or explore the town.
Consider visiting the Sherpa Museum to learn about Sherpa culture and mountaineering history, or head to Thame, a historic village. Don’t miss the school founded by Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to summit Mount Everest.
On the fourth day of the EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return, you will leave the lively atmosphere of Namche Bazaar and head toward Dole. The trek offers stunning mountain views and passes through charming local villages as you ascend further into the Himalayas.
The trail winds through alpine landscapes and rhododendron forests, providing a peaceful and immersive nature experience. This leg of the journey offers a unique opportunity to learn about the customs of the local Sherpa communities and their rich cultural heritage.
Arriving in Dole, you will be welcomed by serene surroundings and a sense of accomplishment as you settle into your evening accommodations.
On the sixth day of the EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return, you will leave Dole and ascend to beautiful meadows where yaks gather. Along the way, you’ll encounter colorful prayer flags and interesting shrines.
The trail follows the Dudh Kosi Valley, rising high above the river. Although the walk is relatively easy, the altitude may still affect you, even on small inclines.
The alpine terrain offers a stark contrast with few plants, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and a clear blue sky.
After about two hours, you’ll reach Luza (4360m), and after another hour, you’ll arrive in Machhermo (4465m), where you will spend the night.
The journey continues as you hike from Machhermo to the enchanted destination of Gokyo on the seventh day of the voyage. The walk takes you through amazing scenery that changes dramatically as you go from alpine meadows to the immaculate Gokyo Lake tucked away behind towering rocks.
Ascending offers ever-more amazing scenery, as you remain in awe of the majesty of nature with every step you take. The trail offers a chance to fully experience the unspoiled splendor of the Himalayas, offering both calm and thrilling experiences.
Approaching the charming Gokyo Valley, perched at the edge of a serene lake and encircled by towering mountains that appear to reach the sky, is undoubtedly the highlight of the entire journey.
Day eight of the EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return is designated for acclimatization. Early in the morning, you will head to Gokyo Ri, a peak above Gokyo Valley, to witness a stunning sunrise and panoramic views of the Khumbu region.
As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with increasingly breathtaking views of Nepal's tallest peaks, including Everest, Makalu, Barun, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse. After enjoying the serenity of Thonak Tsho, the fourth lake, you will return along the trail past the third lake.
If permits and physical conditions allow, you can also visit the fifth lake, the Ngozumba Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, before returning to Gokyo for the night.
Today, you will continue your EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return towards Dragnag, after a day of acclimatization in Gokyo Valley. Along the way, you will pass by Ngozumpa Glacier.
The route is relatively short with minimal elevation gain, but it includes some ups and downs. Walking along the eastern side of the glacial moraine offers stunning views of the valley.
As you approach the yak grazing area, you will be surrounded by the impressive Tawache and Cholatse peaks. Dragnag Village, located near Ngozumpa Glacier, offers easy access to the Cho-La High Pass.
The route is shorter and gains only a small amount of elevation, but it is full of ups and downs. Strolling along the valley on the eastern side of the glacial moraine is unquestionably magnificent and gorgeous.
Tawache and Cholatse peaks will be directly beside you as you enter the yak grazing region. Trekkers can easily reach Cho-La High Pass from Dragnag Village, which is situated next to Ngozumpa Glacier in a tranquil area.
Today’s hike is challenging as you cross the steep Cho La Pass, a high mountain pass. Starting from Dragnag, the trail is uphill, with a rocky, slippery incline, so be cautious.
As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by a snowy landscape and enjoy stunning views of the towering Himalayas. After reaching the pass, you’ll descend sharply, passing by a glacier.
Continuing, you’ll reach the base of Awi Peak before descending its lower slopes. Prepare for breathtaking views of Tawoche and Cholatse, two Himalayan giants.
You’ll eventually arrive at Dzongla, where you'll spend the night, crossing snowy terrain that transitions into lush grasslands.
On day eleven of the EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return, you’ll continue your journey from Dzongla, climbing to the Khumbu glacier's moraine.
As you walk, you’ll pass memorial stones dedicated to Sherpas and climbers who lost their lives on Everest. The trail then heads west along the valley’s rim, descending to Lobuche. The sunset over Nuptse from this viewpoint is breathtaking.
The climb to Lobuche will be easier than the previous day, with a four-hour trek along the Imja Khola before reaching the summit.
You’ll begin your journey to Everest Base Camp early in the morning, trekking through the deep crevasses and icy peaks of the Khumbu Glacier. After several hours, you’ll take a brief lunch break before continuing on the trail to Gorakshep.
The real achievement comes when you finally reach Everest Base Camp, where you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the climbers who tackle the challenging Khumbu icefall.
In spring and fall, colorful tents stand out against the gray landscape, and the views of Nuptse, Khumbutse, and Pumori are stunning.
For an even better perspective, you can take a higher route on the return journey to see the South Col trail and the Khumbu icefall. After spending time at Everest Base Camp, you'll head back to Gorakshep to relax for the night.
Start your day early with a trip to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint in the Everest Region and the highest point of your journey.
From here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and Changtse. Afterward, you'll take a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu, flying over stunning mountain ranges.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan Airport, you'll be transferred directly to your hotel. Spend the day relaxing and recovering from the trek. You’ll stay at one of Thamel's top hotels for the night.
A buffer day is included to mitigate the impact of potential flight delays or cancellations during your EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return.
This extra day provides flexibility, allowing hikers to adjust their itinerary without stress or complications.
With a buffer day, trekkers can navigate unexpected changes with greater ease and peace of mind, knowing they have time to adapt if needed.
On your last day in Nepal, enjoy shopping and exploring Kathmandu, the cultural heart of the valley. We will drop you off at the airport three hours before your flight. If you have extra time, feel free to discuss other destinations in Nepal with us.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport and assistance with hotel check-in.
- Transfer to the airport for final departure.
- One-way flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla, including airport transfer.
- Helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Kathmandu, with airport pickup on arrival.
- Kathmandu: 3 nights in a standard hotel with breakfast (1 night before and 2 nights after the trek; twin-sharing).
- Trek: 11 nights in teahouses (twin-sharing).
- 12 Breakfasts: Options include Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, eggs, toast with tea or coffee.
- 12 Lunches: Typical meals such as dal bhat, noodles, momos, fried rice, pasta, and soups.
- 11 Dinners: Similar to lunch; includes Sherpa stew, pizza, spaghetti, and other warm, hearty meals.
- Water: Normal drinking water with Ef-Chlor purification tablets.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
- Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit.
- All applicable government and local taxes.
- English-speaking trekking guide (first-aid and eco-trained) from Lukla to Lukla, equipped with a medical kit.
- All staff are covered with insurance, fair wages, meals, gear, and accommodation.
- Assistant guide provided for groups of 6 or more.
- Everest region trekking map.
- Trekking poles (provided upon request).
- -20°C-rated sleeping bag.
- Duffel bag (70–80L) if porter service is used.
- Comprehensive first-aid kit.
- Emergency Support
- Emergency-use oxygen canister with the guide.
- Insurance coverage for all Nepalese staff.
- Assistance with organizing rescue (with valid travel insurance).
- Trek completion certificate.
- Free luggage storage at Green Lotus Trekking during the trek.
- Company souvenir T-shirt.
- Farewell dinner at a top-rated restaurant with the Green Lotus Trekking team.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu.
- Nepal visa fees: 15 days: US$30 | 30 days: US$50 | 90 days: US$ 125
- Travel Insurance covering trip cancellation, high-altitude rescue, and medical emergencies.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Extra nights in Kathmandu beyond the itinerary.
- Porter Services Optional: USD 280 per porter (carries up to 25 kg of luggage).
- Personal Expenses like Costs for hot showers, beverages, extra meals, Wi-Fi/data, battery charging, and room upgrades during the trek.
- Tips for guides and trekking staff (customarily expected).
FAQs
This trek combines the classic Everest Base Camp route with a scenic detour through Gokyo Valley, ending with a helicopter ride from Gorakshep back to Kathmandu.
It offers a less crowded alternative to the standard EBC route, featuring the stunning Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass. The helicopter return adds comfort and saves time, giving you more flexibility to explore Nepal.
Green Lotus Trekking offers a well-structured 15-day itinerary, which can be customized to suit your preferences.
This is a challenging high-altitude trek. Key highlights include:
- Kala Patthar (5,545m)
- Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
- Cho La Pass (5,420m)
- Gokyo Ri (5,360m)
A good level of fitness and proper acclimatization are essential.
You’ll stay in teahouses and lodges along the route.
- Attached bathrooms: Lukla, Phakding, Namche, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo
- Shared bathrooms: Dragnag, Dzongla, Lobuche, Gorakshep
Accommodations are basic but comfortable, with meals and warm hospitality.
Yes. Two permits are required:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
Green Valley Nepal Treks will handle the permit process for you.
At the trek’s end, a helicopter will pick you up in Gorakshep and fly you back to Kathmandu, offering a scenic and efficient return.
Yes. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are key. Our itinerary includes two acclimatization days—in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo Valley—to help reduce risk. Guides will monitor your condition throughout the trek.
Essentials include:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Warm clothing layers and a down jacket
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Personal toiletries
A full packing list will be provided by your trekking agency.
Yes. Travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation and high-altitude trekking is mandatory. Ensure your policy includes medical coverage.
Absolutely. Green Lotus Trekking offers fully customizable itineraries to match your schedule, fitness level, and preferences.
The 15-day Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return is an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Your journey begins with a short 35–45 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla via the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport.
During peak trekking seasons, flights may be rerouted to Manthali Airport due to air traffic congestion. To avoid the 3–4 hour road trip to Ramechhap, Green Lotus Trekking also offers daily helicopter flights from Kathmandu to Lukla for added convenience.
From Lukla, you’ll trek along the Dudh Koshi River valley, passing through picturesque villages like Chheplung, Phakding, and Monjo, before reaching Namche Bazaar, the vibrant hub of the Khumbu region.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of towering Himalayan peaks, including several as striking as Everest itself. After acclimatizing in Namche, the route continues through Dole and Machhermo, leading to your next acclimatization stop in the scenic Gokyo Valley.
Here, you’ll explore the tranquil Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic mountain views. Many trekkers claim the view of Everest from Gokyo Ri rivals or even surpasses that from Kala Patthar.
Next, you’ll traverse Cho La Pass and visit remote, stunning locations such as Dragnag, Dzongla, Lobuche, and Gorakshep before reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m). After soaking in the views of surrounding snow-capped peaks, you’ll return to Gorakshep and make a morning trek to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for a close-up view of Everest.
To complete your trek in comfort and style, you’ll board a helicopter from Gorakshep back to Kathmandu, offering a final aerial view of the majestic Himalayas.
For more details or to customize your EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return, feel free to contact us anytime. We’re available 24/7 to assist with pricing, itinerary changes, or any other questions you may have—your journey is our priority.
Why Book the EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return with Us?
- Free luggage storage at our office while you’re on the trek.
- Easy and secure online booking process.
- Customizable itineraries tailored to your preferences.
- Certified, English-speaking NTA guides with extensive training in trekking routes, altitude sickness, and safety protocols.
- Comfortable accommodation and quality meals provided throughout the trek.
- 99% client satisfaction rate—a testament to our commitment to excellent service.
- Farewell dinner celebration at the end of the trek to share memories and mark your achievement.
- Medical kits available at all times for your safety.
- Emergency rescue and evacuation plans are always in place.
What to Expect from the EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return?
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return is a thrilling journey designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Instead of retracing your steps on foot, you’ll enjoy a scenic helicopter ride back to Kathmandu from Gorakshep.
Along the way, you’ll explore key highlights of the Everest region, including:
- Gokyo Lakes – a series of stunning turquoise glacial lakes
- Gokyo Ri (5,357m) – offering panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and more
- Cho La Pass (5,330m) – a dramatic high-altitude crossing
- Everest Base Camp (5,364m) – the ultimate trekking milestone
- Kala Patthar (5,545m) – known for its unmatched view of Mount Everest
The 15-day itinerary includes two acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo Valley to help you adjust to the altitude and enjoy the experience without overexertion.
Trek through the beautiful Dudh Koshi and Khumbu valleys, home to the warm and resilient Sherpa people, and marvel at Nepal’s largest glacier, the Ngozumpa Glacier.
From Gokyo, you’ll witness incredible views of four towering 8,000-meter peaks: Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse, making this trek both challenging and deeply rewarding.
Is the EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return Right for You?
Let’s break it down to help you decide.
This trek takes you to altitudes as high as 5,545 meters, with overnight stays around 5,000 meters. You’ll be hiking 6 to 8 hours a day, so while prior trekking experience isn’t required, a good level of fitness, a love for walking, and the ability to adapt to high altitudes are important.
Although the route is well-established, expect rocky and uneven terrain. No climbing or mountaineering gear is necessary, but be prepared for steep and seemingly endless ascents. In poor weather, Cho La Pass can become slippery—boot spikes (not full crampons) can be helpful.
Trekking poles are recommended, especially if you have knee issues or want added support on wide slopes and moraines at higher elevations.
Gokyo Ri, one of the highest points before Everest Base Camp, is relatively straightforward but can be tricky in parts. Choose lightweight, high-ankle hiking boots to reduce the risk of ankle injuries. Heavy boots may be uncomfortable, while cross-trainers can be cold at high altitudes, particularly in the morning.
How to Prepare for the Trek?
Our experts at Green Lotus Trekking recommend starting a fitness routine at least six weeks before your trek—especially if you’re a beginner.
Your training should:
- Build overall endurance
- Strengthen leg muscles
- Improve balance and core stability
The best way to train? Go hiking with a backpack, ideally in hilly terrain. During the trek, you’ll carry a 5 kg daypack, so train with similar weight when possible.
If training in a gym:
- Focus on step machines to target calves and thighs
- Aim to raise your heart rate to 50% above resting level
- Include cardio exercises—but note that swimming alone doesn’t fully prepare you for trekking demands
Complement your workouts with group fitness classes like body pump, Pilates, or aerobics, especially those that enhance core strength, stability, and balance.
Useful Information
Best Time for EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return
The best times for this trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These seasons offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and ideal conditions in the Khumbu region.
- Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and blooming rhododendrons, enhancing the beauty of the trails.
- Autumn offers crisp air, colorful landscapes, and excellent mountain views.
We do not recommend trekking during the monsoon (June–August) or winter (December–February) seasons. Trails can be slippery during monsoon and snow-covered or blocked in winter, especially at Cho La Pass.
Food on the Trek
One of the highlights of this trek is the hearty and diverse local cuisine. Green Valley Nepal Treks provides 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 12 dinners, including a farewell dinner.
You’ll enjoy:
- Momos (dumplings filled with vegetables or meat)
- Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup and seasonal vegetables)
- Yak-based products like yak cheese and butter tea
Meals are served in cozy teahouses along the route, often with stunning mountain views—adding a cultural and comforting touch to your adventure.
Accommodation on the Trek
You’ll stay in a combination of teahouses and lodges that offer basic but comfortable lodging.
- Rooms with attached bathrooms: Lukla, Phakding, Namche, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo
- Rooms with shared bathrooms: Dragnag, Dzongla, Lobuche, Gorakshep
These lodgings provide a warm atmosphere, essential amenities, and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers. You’ll wake each day refreshed, surrounded by the stunning Himalayan landscape.
Trek Difficulty
The EBC Trek via Gokyo with Helicopter Return is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness. The journey starts at 2,800 meters (Lukla) and reaches up to 5,545 meters (Kala Patthar), staying above 3,000 meters for most of the trek.
Key highlights:
- Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
- Cho La Pass (5,420 m)
- Gokyo Ri (5,360 m)
Though trails can be steep and demanding, the views and sense of accomplishment are unmatched. Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness, but the final helicopter return provides a comfortable end to the trek.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this trek. It serves as a safety net in case of:
- Medical emergencies
- Evacuation needs
- Flight delays or cancellations
- Lost or damaged luggage
Comprehensive insurance offers peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your journey without worrying about unexpected issues.
Altitude Sickness
Since much of the trek is above 3,000 meters, altitude sickness is a real risk. Symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
To prevent altitude sickness:
- Acclimatize properly
- Stay well-hydrated
- Eat well and rest as needed
- Listen to your body and descend if symptoms worsen
With the right precautions, your trek will be both safe and enjoyable.
Packing List
Bring the right gear to stay safe and comfortable throughout the trek:
Clothing
- Base layers (moisture-wicking)
- Fleece or down jacket (insulation)
- Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking pants and shirts
- Hiking boots with good ankle support
- Warm hat, gloves, scarf
Equipment
- Daypack + duffel bag
- Sleeping bag (cold-rated)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles or hydration system
- UV-protection sunglasses
Personal Items
- Toiletries and medications
- Passport, permits, insurance
- Trekking map or guidebook
Miscellaneous
- Snacks/energy bars
- Reusable bags
- Emergency shelter
- Whistle/signal mirror
- Multi-tool or knife
- Cash (Nepalese rupees)
- Trash bags
