Your adventure begins early in the morning with a 45-minute scenic flight to Lukla, offering your first breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival at Lukla’s small mountain airstrip, enjoy tea and snacks while taking in the surrounding towering peaks.

From here, begin your approx. four-hour trek down to Phakding. This gentle walk helps you adjust to trekking in the mountains, passing through small settlements and breathing in the fresh mountain air as you follow the river to the charming village of Phakding.

Upon arrival, settle into the comfortable Yeti Mountain Home, where you can relax and prepare for the days ahead.

Highlights of Phakding:

• Peaceful Phakding Monastery to observe Buddhist rituals

• Iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge adorned with colorful prayer flags

• Scenic Dudh Koshi River with striking turquoise waters

• Vibrant rhododendron forests, blooming beautifully in spring

• Charming Sherpa tea houses offering warm hospitality

• Starting point for treks to Namche Bazaar and the Everest region

Highlights of Lukla:

• Explore the Lukla market for last-minute trekking gear, prayer flags, and local crafts

• Visit the serene Lukla Monastery for quiet reflection and panoramic views

• Enjoy traditional Sherpa meals like momos, thukpa, and dal bhat in cozy teahouses

• Watch aircraft take off and land on the small airstrip, an exciting spectacle for early risers

• Admire colorful rhododendrons in spring and crisp mountain skies in autumn

• Rest comfortably in teahouses with hot showers, Wi-Fi, and scenic mountain views

Today, you trek to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Everest region. The trail follows the Dudh Kosi River, crossing several suspension bridges and winding through beautiful forested paths.

Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages, offering your first glimpses of local Sherpa life and mountain culture. Upon arrival in Namche Bazaar, settle in for the night and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this iconic mountain town.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization while exploring the vibrant Namche Bazaar. Wander through the lively local market, visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about regional culture, or take a short hike up to the Everest View Hotel for your first breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

Things to Do in Namche Bazaar:

• Visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center to learn about local wildlife, geology, and culture

• Explore the Sherpa Culture Museum to discover traditions, mountaineering history, and artifacts

• Stroll through the Saturday market for yak cheese, fresh produce, trekking gear, and handicrafts

• Hike to the Everest View Hotel area for panoramic mountain vistas

• Visit the Namche Monastery and nearby gompas to experience Tibetan Buddhist spirituality

• Relax in cafés, German bakeries, and the world’s highest Irish pub for snacks and downtime

• Acclimatize with easy walks on surrounding trails to aid altitude adjustment

• Optional side trips to Khumjung, Thame, or Tengboche for additional monasteries and local experiences

After breakfast in Namche, board a shared helicopter for a breathtaking flight over the legendary Everest region. The journey takes you above Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Icefall, and Kala Patthar, offering unmatched aerial views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and surrounding peaks.

Instead of landing, enjoy a scenic flyover, ideal for capturing the Himalayas’ beauty without altitude concerns. The helicopter then continues to Lukla for a brief refueling stop before returning directly to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation or light exploration in Kathmandu.

Highlights of the Day:

• Scenic helicopter flyover above Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Icefall, and Kala Patthar (no landing)

• Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori

• Fly above the Khumbu Icefall and glaciers

• Brief landing in Lukla before returning to Kathmandu

• Free afternoon to relax or explore Kathmandu at your own pace

Note: The helicopter ride is shared; if no other travelers join, a private charter cost will apply.

Today, explore the capital of Nepal with visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Begin at the Boudhanath Stupa, surrounded by colorful prayer flags, then visit the holy Pashupatinath Temple along the Bagmati River. Next, see the ancient Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of the city, and stroll through the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square.

This is also a great opportunity to shop for souvenirs, such as local handicrafts or prayer flags, as a keepsake of your unforgettable Himalayan journey.

Your Everest Base Camp Heli Trek concludes today. Depending upon your flight schedule you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight, taking home unforgettable memories of the Himalayas.