Gokyo Valley Trek with Helicopter Return – A Himalayan Adventure with a Scenic Flight Back
The Gokyo Valley Trek with Helicopter Return is a unique and thrilling journey that combines the beauty of traditional Himalayan trekking with the luxury and convenience of a helicopter flight. This adventure leads you into the heart of the Khumbu region, through serene valleys, turquoise glacial lakes, and charming Sherpa villages—culminating in a breathtaking heli ride back to Kathmandu or Lukla.
Trip Highlights:
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Trek through the scenic Gokyo Valley and stay in traditional Sherpa villages
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Visit the stunning Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views
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Witness majestic peaks including Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse
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Enjoy a thrilling helicopter return flight over the Himalayas, avoiding the long return trek
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Ideal for time-bound travelers seeking both adventure and comfort
Trek Overview:
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From there, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machhermo, before reaching the beautiful Gokyo Valley. Along the way, you’ll experience rich Sherpa culture, dramatic landscapes, and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
The highlight of the trek is reaching Gokyo Lakes, a sacred chain of emerald glacial lakes nestled beneath Cho Oyu. A short climb to Gokyo Ri offers one of the best panoramic views in the entire Everest region—featuring four 8,000-meter giants in a single sweep.
After exploring Gokyo and capturing unforgettable mountain vistas, you’ll skip the long walk back and enjoy a private helicopter flight, flying over the majestic Khumbu Glacier, Everest Base Camp region, and back to Kathmandu or Lukla, depending on your package.
Why Choose This Trip?
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Perfect for those who want to explore Gokyo Valley but prefer to avoid the return hike
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Combines authentic trekking with luxurious helicopter travel
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Shortens the overall itinerary while maintaining all the major highlights
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Offers unmatched aerial views of the Everest region
Best Time to Travel:
The ideal trekking seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the skies are clear and mountain views are at their best.
Trek Duration:
12–14 days (can be customized)
Trekking Days: 8–9 days
Helicopter Return Flight Duration: Approx. 45–60 minutes
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 1:Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 2: Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazar
Day 4: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazar
Day 5: Namche Bazar to Dole
Day 6: Dole to Machherma
Day 7: Machherma to Gokyo
Day 8: Gokyo to Gokyo RI and Back to Gokyo
Day 9: Helicopter Flight back to Lukla and Regular flight back to Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure Day
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
The representatives from Namche Heli Service will welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport upon your arrival. He/she Assist to transfer you to the hotel for the overnight stay.
- Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2: Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding
We were transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Domestic Airport this morning to catch our scheduled morning flight to Lukla. After 30 30-minute long adventurous flight above the breathtaking scenario of the Himalayas, we land on the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. Lukla is going to be the starting point of our trek. We meet our porters and other crew members and start trekking towards Phadking, which takes around three hours. We stay overnight at a local guesthouse.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazar
We walk through the beautiful forest of pine today. And our walk leads us along the Dudhkoshi River bank through many suspension bridges. We will be crossing Hillary Suspension bridge which is one of the famous suspension bridges in that region. We will have enough opportunity to witness the wonderful views of Mount Thamserku (6618m) during the walk. Passing through the settlements of Benkar and Monjo, we eventually arrive at the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. We still have a last village of Jorsale before reaching Namche.
Following the trail ascending through the forests and bridges and overlooking the beautiful views of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse, we continue our journey towards Namche. Namche is the gateway to Mount Everest and is also the main trading center of the region. We check into the guesthouse and stay there overnight lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazar
Today is going to be a rest day at Namche. But, as our Health Experts suggest, we need to stay active and moving during the rest days instead of being idle. Hence, we either take a day hike to Thame or visit Khunde for purpose of proper acclimatization. We can even stay at Namche and explore the Bazaar itself.
You can visit the Tourist Visitor Center near the Headquarter of Sagarmatha National Park where you can observe an assortment of things which are related to the First Everest Climbers and Sherpa Culture. We stay overnight at a lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Namche Bazar to Dole
Today, we climb steeply out of Namche Bazaar up to the Kyangjuma village from where we can enjoy outstanding views of Thamserku and Amadablam. We pass through Mong La and stop at its top to enjoy the grandstanding views of surrounding snowcapped mountains and valleys while we have our lunch. We will get chance to observe various flora and fauna including wildflowers and rhododendrons. We finally reach Dole, where we stay overnight.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Dole to Machherma
From Dole, we head towards Machhermo today. Our trail is not going to be that strenuous and you will have opportunity to enjoy the amazingly spectacular natural beauty on the way. You can also observe the excellent views of mountains including Cho Oyu, Kantega and Thamserku. We reach at Machhermo after the walk of about five hours. We stay overnight at Machhermo.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Machherma to Gokyo
From Machhermo, we move onwards along various lakes on the way. Continuing gradually uphill, we reach Gokyo for our lunch. We stay overnight at the camp at Gokyo.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Gokyo to Gokyo RI and Back to Gokyo
Today, we hike up to Gokyo Ri for our ultimate goal to see the wonderful views of Himalayas including Mount Everest. If the weather is fine, you can spend few hours at the top of Gokyo Ri. we stay overnight.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Helicopter Flight back to Lukla and Regular flight back to Kathmandu
Take breakfast at Gokyo and enjoy the beautiful Gokyo Lake scenery. and ready to fly to Kathmandu Helicopter. The helicopter ride provides a unique perspective of the terrain you’ve traversed, adding a touch of grandeur to your adventure. Upon reaching Lukla, you’ll transition to a regular flight that will whisk you back to Kathmandu. This last leg of the expedition offers a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and memories amassed during the trek.
Gokyo to Lukla: around 20 to 30 minutes; Regular flight from Lukla to Kathmandu: around 30 minutes.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast and Lunch
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport Arrival and Departure Local Transfer to Hotel
- 02 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu with BB Plan
- 02 Nights Hotel in Pokhara with BB Plan
- Kathmandu to Lukla by flight
- Gokyo Lake to Kathmandu by Helicopter
- Local Ground Transport
- Teahouse lodges provide accommodation during trekking
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
- All Trekking Permits
- All required ground transportation by private vehicle
- Highly experienced trekking guide
- Staff food, insurance, salary, and clothing
- All applicable tax, VAT, service charge,
Cost Excludes
- All Meals and Extra hotel in Kathmandu
- Personal nature expenses
- Bar bill and all kinds of drinks
- Tips for Guide, Porter and Driver
FAQ
What is the Gokyo Valley Trek with Helicopter Return?
This is a scenic high-altitude trek in the Everest region that takes you to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri viewpoint. Instead of trekking back the same route, you return to Kathmandu via helicopter, saving time and enjoying aerial views of the Himalayas.
How long is the trek?
The trek typically takes 8 to 10 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization schedule. The helicopter return saves about 3–4 days of trekking back from Gokyo to Lukla.
What are the major highlights of this trek?
- Gokyo Lakes – a series of pristine glacial lakes at high altitude
- Gokyo Ri (5,357m) – panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu & Cho Oyu
- Ngozumpa Glacier – the longest glacier in the Himalayas
- Helicopter return flight over Everest region to Kathmandu
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
This trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the altitude. Beginners can do it with proper fitness preparation and slow acclimatization. No technical climbing is involved.
What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point is Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), an optional but highly recommended day hike from Gokyo village for panoramic mountain views.
How much does the helicopter return cost?
The helicopter return from Gokyo to Kathmandu typically costs:
- US$ $600–900 per person (shared basis, 4–5 people)
- US$ $3,000–3,500 for a private charter (up to 5 passengers)
Prices vary depending on season, group size, and helicopter availability.
What permits are required for this trek?
You will need the following:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Local Fee)
- TIMS Card (in some cases)
What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?
You’ll stay in tea houses/lodges along the trail — simple but comfortable. Basic facilities like twin beds, shared toilets, and local meals are available. Gokyo village has a few better-equipped lodges for trekkers.
When is the best time for this trek?
- Spring (March to May) – clear skies, warm days, rhododendron blooms
- Autumn (September to November) – best mountain visibility and stable weather
Avoid monsoon (June to August) and mid-winter (late December to February) due to snow and cold.
What happens if the helicopter can’t fly due to weather?
In case of bad weather, the helicopter flight may be delayed or rescheduled. If grounded for more than a day, you may need to descend on foot or wait in Gokyo until the weather clears. Travel insurance with emergency coverage is highly recommended.
Route Map
Client Reviews
Jan
Pat
We decided to fly by helicopter from Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu. This avoided having to walk to Lukla and then having a long bumpy ride from Ramechhap airport back into Kathmandu. Also then we could get a flight from Kathmandu airport to Pokhara. All the arrangements were made by Easy Flight Travel. We were escorted up to the helipad and helped into the helicopter. I would definitely recommend Easy Flight Travel to anyone wanting to organise travel from Namche Bazaar
Iveta D
Paul T
Raju from Easy Flight Travel is honest reliable and very friendly to deal with.
You can trust him to arrange a flight, recommend a hotel, or carry out safe honest mony change. What he agrees to will happen.
Highly recommended.
Raju was efficient and helpful in booking our helicopter from Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu and our flight onto Pokhara. He was there in the morning to escort us and to carry a pack up to the helicopter pad. The flight was delayed, but he waited with us and was in contact with the company, checking on when the flight would arrive.