Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return - 12 Days

Arrival and Visa

• Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

  Yes, our airport representative will pick you up at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Our team member will be waiting outside the airport terminal, displaying “Trekking to Nepal” signboard. After meeting up, you will be taken to your respective hotel in our private vehicle.

• How do I get Visas to Nepal?

  You can obtain the Nepalese visa from Nepalese consulate in your country easily or upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. There are electronic registration machines in Kathmandu airport which read your passport, take your photo and print out visa form for immigration purposes. Further, we suggest you bring 2 copies of passport size photos (not necessary at Kathmandu airport), but it might be needed for documentation.

  You can also apply online within 15 days of your date of arrival in Nepal. For that, you require a valid passport, your hotel address and a recent digital version of passport size photo (size 1.5”x 1.5”). You can print out the confirmation receipt and show it to the Immigration officer along with visa fee in Kathmandu airport.

  A 15/30/90 day multiple entries Nepalese visa can be obtained by paying USD 30/50/125 or equivalent foreign currency respectively. For more information, please read this link about Tourist Visa.

  Also, you can follow this link- Department of Immigration to fill up online Tourist Visa form.

• Do I need special travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?

  Yes. Our company only covers insurance for our team members. We recommend you buy a travel insurance in your country. Make sure your travel insurance covers adventure activities over a certain altitude (4000 m) and covers emergency medical as well as helicopter rescue and evacuation.

  Most importantly, if you are trekking in the mountainous region of Nepal, then you should plan ahead about possible challenges, especially altitude sickness, ill related health issues, accidents, flight delays etc. In such cases, the only possible way out of the mountains is helicopter rescue. So, we recommend you to have a travel insurance policy that covers the helicopter evacuation cost and medical services in hospitals while trekking in Nepal.

• Do I need any extra documents?

  All you need is a copy of your travel insurance, a copy of your passport and 2 passport size photos while travelling in Nepal. You are required to bring photos for trek permits.

Expenditures and Travel

• How much spending money do I need for Everest Base Camp Trek?

  Well, our Everest Base Camp Trek cost is all inclusive of your accommodation, meals, permits and other official expenses. (See price includes and excludes section for more detail). Besides this the other expenses depends totally on your spending habits. In general, you can spend $10 – $15 per person per day for lunch and dinner in Kathmandu. During the trek a $15 – $25 per person per day is sufficient to buy bottled water, snacks, chocolate bars, hot and cold drinks, Wi fi, showers etc. You might not need the mentioned amount too however it is always better to have the cash handy with you.

  Likewise, if you like to offer tips/gratuity or give donations to monasteries, you can bring along a small amount of pocket money extra during the trek which could be local or your own currency. (It’s optional).

  Please note: Everest region is comparatively more expensive than any other regions of Nepal. Being the mountainous region of Nepal without access to road transport in many parts especially at higher altitude regions, consumer goods are transported by helicopter, airplanes, horses, mules and porters that leads to high-cost at these places.

• Is it possible to reserve a trip now and pay a deposit later or do I have to pay a deposit at booking/reservation?

  You are required to pay 30% deposit at the time of booking and rest of the amount prior to the trip departure date. For this trip, you need to complete an online booking form along with 30% non-refundable deposit. You can pay the remaining amount in cash, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express Card) upon your arrival in Kathmandu, at our office in Thamel. Note that a 3.5% levy will be added as card processing fee by banks. (We are not liable for those 3.5% bank transaction fee).

  Read more details in “terms and conditions”.

• What is your Cancellation Policy?

  Cancellation notice is required, a minimum of 20 days prior to trip departure. If the reason is valid the trip shall then be termed as cancelled and a cancellation charge of 30% of the trip amount would be deducted from the advance paid.

  If you do not cancel your trip prior to 20 days due to whatever reasons, you must be aware that the trip you’ve already bought is completely non-refundable as per our terms and conditions. If you cancel the trip and need to submit a claim to your insurance company, we can help with the supporting documentation such as a receipt for monies paid. If your trip is cut short due to weather/illness/personal reasons, there is no refund for unused accommodations.

  Moreover, you can postpone or transfer your booking to another person, if you have genuine reasons for not taking the trip. For instance: serious illness, death of a close relative or friend etc. In such cases, if all the requirements are met, you can postpone or change on another date, but an extra fee of $200 is required.

  For more details please read “terms and conditions”.

• Can I use credit cards in the places I visit in trekking?

  Most places in trekking route doesn’t accept credit cards. Though, there are few ATM booths in Namche Bazaar, they are highly unreliable. So, we highly recommend you to convert currencies into Nepalese Rupees or withdraw money from ATMs in Kathmandu before going to trek.

  Also, note that money exchanger does not accept credit cards in Nepal. Besides, few shops in Kathmandu accept credit cards for your purchases.

Preparation and Fitness Level

• What should be my preparation and fitness level for Everest Base Camp Trek?

  You don’t need any special kind of technical skill or training for Everest Base Camp Trek. If you are fit, healthy and can walk up to 5-8 hours a day, then you can trek to Everest Base Camp.

  While trekking to Everest Base Camp, you hike in the trail up to higher altitude of 5600 m. Likewise, trekking in higher altitude is more strenuous than lower altitude due to lower oxygen level, decreased air pressure and density in these regions. Your body needs some time to adapt in new climate and cope with decreased oxygen level at higher altitude, which is called acclimatization.

  So, we suggest you to do regular physical exercise, running or jogging activities to enhance your fitness level and keep yourself in good health. To enjoy your trek to the fullest, you can start doing an hour of aerobic exercises 3 to 4 times per week before 2-3 months the trek commences. This will surely enhance your stamina and endurance required for the trek. With sheer determination, courage and mental strength, you can accomplish this trek successfully.

  Note: For aspiring trekkers with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease, we highly encourage to inform us while booking or consult doctor before the trip.

• Is there any age limit for trekking in Nepal?

  There’s no age limit for trekking in Nepal as long as you are physically and mentally fit. However, for trekkers below age 18, you should be accompanied by your parents or elder guardians during the trek.

Trip Difficulty

• How difficult is trekking in the Everest region?

  It’s all relative and depends on your preparation and fitness levels. If you frequently hike long distances and have prior experience of trekking in hills with backpacks, you will find this trek easier. On the other side, if you are not used to trekking, outdoor activities or physical exercises, then you will find it difficult.

  Trekking in the Everest region is challenging, yet rewarding. Only when you accept and overcome challenges, you will find growth, build your strength and character in life. Depending on your route, usually the trek consists of 5-8 hours of hiking each day with a professional guide. So, trekking in Everest region is achievable for most people, but you need both preparation and obsession with the mountains.

Accommodation and Communication

• What kind of Hotel can I expect in Kathmandu?

  We use Nepali standard three star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu. You will be accommodated in standard room on a twin-sharing basis including breakfast during your stay.

  Furthermore, if you need to stay extra nights in the hotel or need upgraded to 4 stars and 5 star hotel accommodations, we can arrange it as you wish for a reasonable price.

• Is there a possibility of getting separate rooms on the trek? If so how much extra will this cost?

  The single supplement cannot be guaranteed earlier due to overflow of trekkers in peak season. Again, when there is a decline in the number of guests, the teahouses can easily provide a private room without any additional cost. In particular, the accommodation during the trek will remain very basic, comfortable on a twin sharing basis and sometimes dormitory. On the other side, we can assure a separate room in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara on the trek.

• What type of toilet/bathroom facilities are available in the teahouses/guesthouses?

  You can find western style flushing toilets as well as adjacent squat toilets in the teahouses/guesthouses. Mostly, the bathrooms are not attached to the individual rooms and are shared.

• Where do we go toilet along the trail?

  You can use the toilet facilities provided by guest houses along the trail. Otherwise, if you arrive in places without guesthouses or public toilet in those regions during the trek, then you need to find some privacy and experience outdoor toilet adventure.

• Do I need to bring toilet paper for the trek?

  Yes, we suggest you bring toilet paper along with hand sanitizer and towel for your conveniences. Indeed, toilet papers are available to buy on the guesthouses. So, no need to worry about it a lot.

• Can I charge my electronic gadgets during the trek?

  Yes. There are tea houses and lodges that provide charging facility for electronic gadgets upon paying extra fee.

  Note: The power plugs and sockets used in Nepal are type C, D and M. The standard voltage and frequency of electricity in Nepal is 230 V and 50 Hz respectively. This means if your electronic appliances state ‘INPUT: 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz’, you can used to recharge in every country all over the world. Otherwise, make sure you bring universal travel adapter that is compatible for all kinds of devices in the trek.

• Are there any means of communication and internet access while trekking to Everest?

  Yes. There are telephone services and 3G coverage available in the Everest region. Most trekking routes have been equipped with internet access and telephone services. 

  However, being a remote mountainous region, there may be poor internet connection and uninterrupted coverage cannot be guaranteed. Likewise, our trekking guide has a cell phone from which you can make a phone call. Also, we recommend you to buy a local sim card, Ncell, in Kathmandu and use it for communication and internet access while trekking to Everest.
  

Foods and Drinking water

• What kind of foods are offered on the trek?

  We provide breakfast, lunch and dinner on the Trek. Most importantly, it is mandatory for all trekkers to take breakfast and dinner at the teahouse where you stay overnight. Likewise, lunch will be served at teahouses en route where you can order food as per your choice.

  Usually, the typical Nepali food: dal (lentils), bhat (rice) and tarkari (vegetable curry) are served on the trek. These foods are highly nutritious and give you sufficient energy for the trek. Besides, other typical meals include delicious vegetarian foods such as pasta, noodles, french fries, boiled eggs, pancakes, omelets, toast, momo, garlic soup and many more dishes. In addition, we let trekkers choose hot drinks from the menus at the tea houses. Also, you can find meat dishes, but we suggest you to choose vegetarian meals for health reasons as the local meat available is not hygienic.

• Is the food in the mountain region prepared to international standard in terms of safety?

  Yes. The food provided at tea houses during the trek are very safe and hygienic. We recommend you to eat local food, vegetarian meal and avoid meat for your health reasons. Please follow the suggestions of our trekking guide when ordering food in the tea houses.

• Is it safe to drink water in the trekking region?

  For health concerns, it is unsafe to drink all types of natural sources of water in the trekking region of Nepal. So, we suggest you drink bottled mineral water, boiled water, and use purification tablets or iodine for tap water. Another possible option is using SteriPEN for water purification.

  You can purchase bottled water and boiled water at the tea houses in the trek region. As you sweat a lot when hiking to higher elevation, you must drink plenty (4-5 liters) of drinking water, hot drinks and soups each day. So, make sure you are hydrated well to avoid altitude sickness and muscle cramps in the trek.

• Is there any problem regarding foods for vegetarian during the trek?

  This is not a problem at all because mostly the mountain teahouses serve vegetarian meals. In addition, all the meals we serve during the trek include vegetarian dishes. Moreover, we highly suggest our trekkers to avoid meat dishes as the local meat is not hygienic and refrigerated properly.

  Note: Please inform us if you have any diet restriction prior to the trek start.

Transportation

• Do we book our own international flights to and from Nepal?

  Yes. You should book your own international flights to and from Nepal.

• What mode of transportation do you use while trekking in Everest region?

  For Kathmandu airport pick up and drop off, we use our own private vehicle. Moreover, it depends on a group size, and we mostly use cars, minibus, vans or 4WD SUV as means of transportation for reaching domestic airport and city sightseeing tours.

  The government of Nepal imposed a very high tax rate (more than 200%) for importing automobiles. That’s why, Indian companies manufactured vehicles such as Toyota Hiace, Mahindra Scorpio etc. are widely used in Nepal compared to vehicles from top luxury brands. This means the mode of transportation will remain basic, yet comfortable and convenient, while travelling in Nepal.

  Everest region is not well upgraded with roadways, and mostly relies on air transport. So, we utilize domestic flights operate from Kathmandu or Manthali airport to reach Lukla airport, the gateway to Everest Base Camp.

  Another reliable mode of transportation in the Everest region is helicopter flight. However, it’s quite expensive than other modes of transportation for regular use.

  Note: Since March 2019, the domestic flight has been shifted to nearby Manthali airport due to increased congestion in Kathmandu airport during peak trekking season. This means Lukla flight will operate from Manthali airport during peak trekking season, spring (March, April, May, October and November). Besides, peak trekking season, all the Lukla flights will operate from Kathmandu airport as usual.

• What is the alternative option if my flight to and from Lukla is cancelled or delayed?

  The primary modes of air transport in the mountain region are Twin Otter and Dornier. Sometimes, due to bad weather conditions or other technical issues, flights may get cancelled or delayed to and from Lukla. In this case, we can re book your flight for the next day. We highly recommend you to prepare ahead for unforeseen circumstances (flight delay, bad weather) and schedule a couple of extra days for the trek.

  Another possible option is to charter a private helicopter to ensure you don’t miss the deadline for the trek or your international flight. This option is available only if the clients agree to share the cost of helicopter charter among each other. The helicopter takes 5 passengers at a time, and the cost of trekking guide should be shared by trekkers respectively. The helicopter charter from Kathmandu to Lukla costs you extra $2500 in addition to domestic airfare. Similarly, the helicopter charter flight from Manthali to Lukla costs you extra $1800 in addition to domestic airfare.

• What is the weight limit for Lukla Flight?

  The weight limit is 15 kg/ 33 lbs for Lukla flight including both your duffel bag (10kg/22 lbs) and backpack (5kg/11lbs). For exceeding weight limit, you need to pay an additional $2-$5 per kg in the airport. So, we suggest you to pack your bag carefully considering the weight limits for Lukla flight.

Season, Weather and Temperature

• What is the alternative option if my flight to and from Lukla is cancelled or delayed?

  The primary modes of air transport in the mountain region are Twin Otter and Dornier. Sometimes, due to bad weather conditions or other technical issues, flights may get cancelled or delayed to and from Lukla. In this case, we can re book your flight for the next day. We highly recommend you to prepare ahead for unforeseen circumstances (flight delay, bad weather) and schedule a couple of extra days for the trek.

  Another possible option is to charter a private helicopter to ensure you don’t miss the deadline for the trek or your international flight. This option is available only if the clients agree to share the cost of helicopter charter among each other. The helicopter takes 5 passengers at a time, and the cost of trekking guide should be shared by trekkers respectively. The helicopter charter from Kathmandu to Lukla costs you extra $2500 in addition to domestic airfare. Similarly, the helicopter charter flight from Manthali to Lukla costs you extra $1800 in addition to domestic airfare.

• What is the weather and temperature like in the Everest Region?

  One of the most unpredictable elements of the Everest region is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation. Here are some weather basics to help ensure that you come to the Himalayas as well equipped and prepared to face anything.
  Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours in the Everest region. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 C (77 F), only to dip down as low as -20 C (-4 F) in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.

  Spring – March / April / May / June

  Spring happens to be one of the best times of the year to visit the Everest region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. One can meet many other Everest climbers during this season and base camp is full of tents. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and many different species of flowers are visible in the lower altitude. During springtime, the average temperature is 20 C (68 F), with a maximum of 25 C (77 F), during sunny days and a minimum of -15 C (5 F) in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

  Monsoon – July/August Through Mid-September

  This season is not really recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it’s rainy as well as dry, that’s why very few people travel during this season.
  There are positive sides of trekking during the monsoon months as the excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds. During springtime, the average temperature is 22 C (71.6 F), with a maximum of 30 C (86 F) during sunny days and a minimum of -5 C (23 F) in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

  Autumn – End of September / October / November

  Similar to springtime, autumn in the Everest region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. While it lacks the beauty of flowers, the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible mountain views from every angle. The average temperature during the fall is 17 C (62.6 F), with a maximum temperature of 20 C (68 F), during sunny days and a minimum of -15 C (5 F) in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters altitude.

  Winter – December/ January/ February

  Winter starts from mid-December till mid-February. People still like to trek this month due to fewer crowds. View is still good but foggy so having extra days is highly recommended during this period. The average temperature during the winter is 10 C (50 F), with a maximum temperature of 17 C (62.6 F), during sunny days and a minimum of -20 C (-4 F) in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters altitude. The above temperature is based on the outside of the guesthouse temperature. No need to worry about the cold temperature as we provide sleeping bag and extra blanket to make sure our clients are warm enough during the time of need.

• What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bag that you lend to trekkers?

  The temperature rating of the sleeping bags that we provide to trekkers are about -10 degree Celsius (14 degree Fahrenheit). Also, our guides can provide you liners or extra blankets if needed.

Health and Safety

• What safety measures are in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry with them on trek to deal with sickness/accidents?

  Our trekking guides are highly experienced, professional and well trained for higher altitude first aid training and related problems. They can measure your oxygen level in blood using oximeters and provide first aid if needed. Our guide carries medicine and a first aid kit during the trek. Besides, our guides carry a cell phone and keep on updating about the trek in our head office Kathmandu every day. If you deal with sickness or accidents, our guide will accompany you throughout the trek and ensure your safety and wellness. In case of emergency, our guide will manage helicopter rescue for your medical treatment in Kathmandu. However, the cost of helicopter charter is solely borne by trekkers.

  Make sure that your insurance policy covered medical expenses and emergency helicopter rescue in high altitude regions above 4,000 m; otherwise the cost is expensive in the mountain region. Only if you have purchased a valid travel insurance policy that covers helicopter charter and medical evacuation, then you can claim for reimbursement with your travel insurance company. In that case, we can help you with providing money receipts for your claim.

• What immunizations will I need?

  Vaccinations are not mandatory for this trip. Still, we recommend you are vaccinated against diphtheria TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus for your safety. We suggest a dental check up prior to the trek and be aware of your blood group type. Likewise, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions we recommend you to inform us while booking the trip.

• If I am sick can I continue the trek next day after a day rest?

  Well, it depends on your sickness level. You should talk with your guide about your health and take necessary measures. If you get sick at a higher altitude, you need to descend at a lower altitude and take rest (3-7 days) for recovery. Depending upon your situation, our guide will put you in the next trekking group coming up in the trek. Your health matters, so you can take a rest until recovery and catch up with the next group.

• If I am sick can I continue the trek next day after a day rest?

  Well, it depends on your sickness level. You should talk with your guide about your health and take necessary measures. If you get sick at a higher altitude, you need to descend at a lower altitude and take rest (3-7 days) for recovery. Depending upon your situation, our guide will put you in the next trekking group coming up in the trek. Your health matters, so you can take a rest until recovery and catch up with the next group.

Trekking Guides

• Do your guides have trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center? Have they received first aid training for high altitude?

  Yes, all our guides have received a 45 day training from Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management. Also, they have received Intensive Wilderness First aid Course from Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP). Furthermore, they are highly experienced, skillful and speak English fluently.

• Are Trekking to Nepal staff insured?

  Yes, all Trekking to Nepal staff are insured that includes trekking guides, cooks, Sherpa and porters.

• Do I need to tip my guide and porter? How much would that be?

  Well, tips/gratuity is customary in Nepal and highly appreciated. Moreover, it’s personal and a great way to show admiration for all those members involved in the trek, their hard work and devotion to make your journey a pleasant one. We have seen our previous clients tipping from USD 20 – USD 1000 per person for trekking crews. In general, we suggest to spend at least 10% of the cost of the trek for tipping guides and porters.

Trip Departure and Extension

• All your departure is guaranteed to run?

  Yes, all our trips are guaranteed to run. We never cancel the trip due to not having enough participants. Also, we make arrangements for one person and a private trip as well. You can make inquiries while booking the trip.

• I would like to extend my holiday, any recommendations?

  Yes. There are so many options and choices available to extend your holiday before or after the trek. Please visit our website for more information about treks and tours in Nepal, India, Bhutan and Tibet.