Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 13 Days

In the wake of the 2015 earthquakes and in answer to an increasing demand for superior accommodation, particularly in the Mahalangur Himal region, home of the Sherpa people: numerous three-to-five-star lodges have been built by the community, to answer this need; and with more being built to satisfy the demand. We are now happy to offer you the following itinerary which uses the finest establishments currently available. Our recommendation is that, after your arrival, you allow for two nights in Kathmandu, staying at the Yak and Yeti Hotel (or equivalent) before flying to Lukla for the 13 day trek. We also recommend at least two nights and one full day in the city after your trek to allow for unscheduled mountain flight delays out of Lukla caused by inclement weather. A short early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla leads to the start of our luxury EBC trek. Follow trails to Sherpa villages that head, between towering peaks, towards Everest. Once above the treeline, you will be closer to the ice-giants than on any other trail. The 10,5 trekking days are designed to minimize the risk of altitude mountain sickness (AMS) by limiting daily altitude increases: to 350m a day, above Namche. Two obligatory rest and acclimatisation days are included as the altitude rises. The first is at Namche Bazaar: explore the town and walk up to the Everest View Hotel for a great view of Everest or walk to nearby Khumjung to experience the culture, lifestyle and beliefs of the Sherpa People. Trek to the hilltop village of Tengboche which has a vibrant Buddhist Monastery and great views. Overnight in nearby Debuche, home to a Buddhist Nunnery. Continue through Pangboche to Dingboche for the second acclimatisation day: walk up to Nangartshang Gompa for unparalleled views of the Nuptse glacier, Ama Dablam’s north face glacier and, further east, towering Makalu. As the altitude rises, temperatures fall: forests and farmland give way to alpine scrub; then rock and ice. After a night at Lobuche, trek to the highest village at Gorak Shep for lunch. Follow the trail to the ring of peaks surrounding the upper Khumbu Glacier – and the ice falls towards the summit. Everest Base camp is laid out annually on the ice opposite the ice fall. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.