Namche Bazar Trek with Helicopter Return
The Namche Bazar Trek with Helicopter Return is a perfect blend of adventure and luxury in the Everest region. This unique package allows you to experience the thrill of trekking to the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazar and enjoy a swift, scenic helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, saving both time and energy.
Namche Bazar, situated at 3,440 meters, is the heart of the Khumbu region and a cultural hub for trekkers and climbers heading towards Everest Base Camp. The trek to Namche takes you through picturesque villages, suspension bridges draped with prayer flags, and lush forests filled with rhododendron and pine. Along the way, you’ll witness incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other iconic Himalayan peaks. Spending a night in Namche also allows you to experience the warm Sherpa hospitality and explore the bustling local market, monasteries, and viewpoints such as the Everest View Hotel.
Instead of retracing your steps back to Lukla, the helicopter return from Namche to Kathmandu offers a quick and unforgettable journey. The flight provides stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, the Dudh Koshi River Valley, and the diverse landscapes below. What usually takes two days of trekking and an additional domestic flight is completed in about an hour.
This option is especially suitable for travelers with limited time, those who want to avoid the uncertainty of Lukla flights, or anyone wishing to add comfort and luxury to their Himalayan journey. With experienced pilots and modern helicopters, your safety and enjoyment are always the top priority.
The Namche Bazar Trek with Helicopter Return is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Everest region without the lengthy return trek, making your adventure both memorable and convenient.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – 1,350m (4,429ft)
Day 2: Helicopter to Lukla (2840M) and Trek to Phakding -2,610m (8,563ft)
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar – 3,440m (11,286ft)
Day 4: Trek to Everest View Hotel -3,880m (12,730ft)
Day 5: Helicopter to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) with Landing in Kalapatthar (5,545m) and Back to Kathmandu
Day 6: Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and check-in to the Hotel
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 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2804m) and trek to Phakding (2610m) – 3 Hours
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: Stay Overnight at Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3441m) – 5 Hours
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: Stay Overnight at Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Trek to Everest View Hotel -3,880m (12,730ft)
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 Everest View Hotel 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: Stay Overnight at Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Helicopter to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) with Landing in Kalapatthar (5,545m) and Back to Kathmandu
With an early morning majestic sunrise view over the Himalayas from your hotel, you will have your breakfast. With some refreshments, your Helicopter will arrive and the Helicopter will take you towards Everest.
This will be a scenic flight with a splendid view of the Himalayas, Khumbu glacier, Khumbu icefall, Everest Base Camp and then finally you will land at Kalapatthar (5545M). Providing ample time to explore you can take pictures and make videos and then descend towards Lukla via Everest View Hotel and then to Kathmandu on the same day.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6: Final Departure
We are saying goodbye to Kathmandu as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We will transfer you to the airport for your return flight.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport Arrival and Departure Local Transfer to Hotel
- 02 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu with BB Plan
- Kathmandu to Lukla by flight
- Namche 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 Namche Bazaar Trek with Everest Heli Tour?
This trip combines a short trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar with a scenic helicopter flight over Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and surrounding peaks, before flying back to Kathmandu. It’s perfect for those wanting to experience the Everest region without the full EBC trek.
How many days does this tour take?
Typically, the tour takes 5 to 7 days, depending on your pace and time for acclimatization. A common itinerary includes arrival in Kathmandu, flight to Lukla, 2–3 days of trekking to Namche, a helicopter tour, and return flight to Kathmandu.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, this trek is ideal for beginners or moderate-level trekkers. The trail to Namche Bazaar is well-established, and the pace is manageable. However, some basic fitness and preparation are recommended due to the altitude.
What is the maximum altitude reached on this trip?
The highest altitude on foot is Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters). During the helicopter tour, you’ll fly up to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) and over Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters), but you won’t land at high altitudes, minimizing altitude-related risks.
Do I need to worry about altitude sickness?
Since the trek only goes up to Namche Bazaar and the helicopter handles the higher elevation, the risk of altitude sickness is low, but still possible. Acclimatization in Namche and staying hydrated can help minimize symptoms.
Is the helicopter flight safe?
Yes, the helicopter tour is operated by licensed and experienced pilots using high-altitude helicopters. Flights are weather-dependent to ensure maximum safety.
Can I do this trip solo or with a guide?
You can trek solo or with a guide, but hiring a local guide is highly recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural insight. The helicopter tour is operated in coordination with professional companies.
What is included in the helicopter tour?
The helicopter flight includes:
- Scenic flight over Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar
- Aerial views of major peaks (Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, etc.)
- Return flight to Kathmandu (or Lukla if arranged separately)
When is the best time to go?
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear and the mountain views are at their best.
What permits are required for this trek?
You will need:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
These are typically arranged by your trekking agency or guide.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially one that covers emergency evacuation and helicopter rescue, as this tour involves high-altitude travel and flights.
What should I pack for this trek?
Essentials include:
- Warm clothing (layers, down jacket)
- Comfortable trekking boots
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Personal medications
- Daypack for trekking
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.