Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return- 14 Days

Difficulty Level of Ebc Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return to Kathmandu

The Everest Base Camp trek with Gokyo Lake and helicopter return to Kathmandu is, without doubt, a tough trek that covers an elevation of 4,700m to 5,000m above sea level. This high-altitude trek requires strength of both the body and the mind as trekkers have to traverse steep inclines and uneven grounds.

At these altitudes, oxygen is scarce, and one can easily get affected by altitude sickness, thereby the need for acclimatization. Every step is more difficult, and proper time is taken, and water is taken to ensure that it is safe to climb further up the mountain. 

The trek lasts for more than six hours and sometimes on steep terrains that even the most experienced hikers cannot handle. The hours are long, the weather is unpredictable, and the trekking is at great heights, which certainly is energy-draining.

The trails to Gokyo Lake and Everest Base Camp are very rigorous and involve a lot of climbing; thus, physical strength and endurance are needed. The trekking activities require the trekkers to be ready with the right equipment, have a level of fitness, and know the hazards involved in trekking at high altitudes. 

But the physical stress of this rigorous hike is eased by the helicopter ride back from Kala Patthar to Kathmandu. The last part, comprising a helicopter ride, is convenient as it affords the trekkers a comfortable means to descend after days of tiring hikes and spectacular sceneries; it also offers the trekkers an aerial view of the Himalayas. This return trip has a reverse view of the same journey and also ensures that the trip ends safely, physically, and mentally tiring trekkers get to rest.

Should I Hire Guides For the Trek?

The services of guides and porters would go a long way in boosting the experience of trekking as it comes with many benefits that help in increasing safety, comfort, and pleasure. Interpreters are a great help when it comes to the trails, the customs of the place, and making certain that one is on the right track.

On the other hand, porters are the ones who carry your hefty pieces of equipment, and you only need to carry your luggage as you go hiking with your eyes open to the beautiful scenery. 

The advantages of having a guide do not end with the simple aspect of direction. Local guides are people from the area. Therefore, they give comprehensive information on the area’s history, culture, and any form of wildlife so you have a deeper understanding of the trek.

They are also taught basic first aid and can be a help in cases of an emergency, thus making your trek more safe. Also, a guide handles issues to do with permits, accommodation, and other issues that may cause a lot of stress, freeing up your time for the activities. A guide usually charges anything between $25 to $35 per day, and it is a worthy expense given the security that they offer and the added value in terms of experience. 

Should I Hire Porters?

The porters are responsible for carrying most of the trekking loads and, hence, are essential in the whole process. They can carry up to 20-25 kilograms and assist in load bearing so that you will not find the trek very tiresome.

This is especially useful at the high altitudes where you need to conserve every drop of energy and every watt of electricity. Paying a porter normally costs between $20 to $30 per day, so you must pack all the necessities in a day pack and then leave the rest of the items for the porter to carry, which makes trekking much more enjoyable. Also, the use of porters from the region is advantageous to the community since it creates income sources for families in the area.

Required Permits for Gokyo EBC With Heli ReturnTrip

Before planning the EBC Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return to Kathmandu, it is important to obtain the correct permits. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit is the first one, and generally, the permits are categorized based on the activities one intends to undertake in the conservation area. This is required for anyone trekking in the park and for Lukla to EBC and beyond.

The cost is NRs. International trekkers to be charged NRs. 3000. 1000 for SAARC nationals and NRs. 100 for Nepalese trekkers. This permit is vital to ensure that the ecological system of the area is preserved and also to boost the economic aspect of the area. You can get this permit at the NTB office in Kathmandu or the check-post of the park in Monjo. 

The trekkers also must get the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit. This permit is fairly new and was issued to facilitate the developmental projects in the Khumbu area. The fee for this permit is NRs. 2000 per head. Contrary to the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit cannot be secured from the Nepal Tourism Board office. 

However, trekkers must buy it either in Lukla or Monjo, which is the starting point of the trek for most trekkers. Every traveler who will be trekking in the Khumbu region must have this permit because it grants one the right to access the trails and villages toward the EBC. 

Those who opt for the time-tested route from Jiri to Lukla will need to obtain a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permit. This permit costs NRs. Two thousand per head is not mandatory unless you trek in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area. The permit is available from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. This route provides more conventional trekking, encountering the woods, fields, and villages before merging with the standard route to the EBC.

To get these permits, you can visit the Nepal Tourism Board in Bhrikutimandap ,Kathmandu. You can also get a Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit from Monjo Checkpost.

What Documents Are Needed For Permits?

You must bring the following documents to obtain permits for the EBC Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return to Kathmandu:

• Copies of Passport
• Copies of Visa
• Copies of Passport photographs
• Travel Insurance
• Permit Fees

Accommodation During The Gokyo Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trip

During your EBC Trek via Gokyo & Helicopter return trip, you will be accommodated in comfortable tea houses and lodges to spend a night. These comfortable lodges and teahouses have private bathrooms in Lukla, Phakding, Namche, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, Dragnag, Dzongla, Lobuche, and Gorakshep. 

These accommodations offer clean and comfortable rooms and basic services in a friendly atmosphere. You will receive a warm welcome from the local people, and you will be able to meet people from different parts of the world. Open your eyes to the cool beauty of the Himalayas mountain range and get ready for the next day of trekking.

Meals During The Trek

With regard to meals and eats, the EBC Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return to Kathmandu is one of the best treks for food. Meals, which are regional specialties, are simple and rich at the same time and help to maintain the energy for the trip. We make sure that travelers get to have their 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 12 dinners on the way, plus a farewell dinner. 

Enjoy tasty things like momos and little Nepali steamers with meat or vegetable filling, which is great to eat after a day of walking. The staple meal, Dal Bhat, which consists of boiled rice, lentil soup, and vegetables in season, is quite filling. Treat yourself to fresh yak milk products such as yak cheese and yak butter tea, which is more enjoyable than the usual treks.

How Experienced Should I Be For Gokyo Everest Base Camp and Heli Return Journey? 

Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return is a rather adventurous high-altitude trek requiring a great deal of physical fitness and mental preparedness from the trekkers. It doesn't necessarily require prior experience in Nepal treks, though it may be of great use while hiking.

If you're a newcomer to treks in Nepal, then we suggest trying out some of the shorter and less technical treks to get the experience. The Langtang Valley Trek or the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek will be ideal for acclimatizing the body to the terrain and altitude of the Himalayas.

Similarly,  trekkers should walk 6-8 hours on varied terrain daily, including steep inclines and rocky paths. Cardio fitness and strength training are quite essential before one begins the trek. A higher altitude experience above 4000m may help but not necessary.

A typical day on the Ebc Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return

The day on EBC Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return starts very early. You will wake up by 6:00 a.m. and pack up your stuff. By 7:00 a.m., have your breakfast, and at the usual time of 8:00 a.m., set out of the teahouses, going through different landscapes: rhododendron forests and rocky moraines all the way up to icy glaciers. The views of Everest, Lhotse, and other Himalayan giants slowly unfold in front of one's eyes as one climbs higher.

Following that will be the sight of stupas adorned with prayer flags, suspension bridges to negotiate, and high mountain passes to cross. 

Lunch breaks allow one to rest and refuel; this happens quite frequently with a great view in the background. This afternoon trek continues until you reach your teahouse, generally by 4 p.m. or 6 P.M. Evenings are for relaxation, acclimatization, and catching up with fellow trekkers. Right after the warm dinner, our guide will brief you regarding the next day's journey. This routine will help you acclimate to a gradually higher altitude and possibly tough terrain. 

Advantages of The Added Helicopter Return with Ebc and Gokyo Trek

Time-Saving

Helicopter return will save several hours of hiking time compared to the walk down. It will be helpful if you have limited time and want to sneak a peek at as much of Nepal as you can.

Less Stress on Your Body

The ride down in the chopper relieves one from the struggle and physical toll of the descent, saving your knees and, more importantly, energy. This particularly goes well with those who have weak joints and other forms of body weakness.

Unique Aerial Shot

This takes you right back to the astounding view of the Himalayan Landscapes containing Everest and other peaks, a contrast in surroundings that you believe is so different from the terrain you have trekked.

Avoid Crowded Trails

Most descending trails can grow very busy during peak season. This heli-return helps avoid this traffic on one trail.

Safety

You may have to descend quickly in a helicopter if you're experiencing altitude sickness or other health problems.

Ultimate Opulence

The helicopter ride at the end of your trek is nothing short of thrilling, giving you an intensely opulent feel of adventure and comfort in the Himalayas.

Altitude Sickness | Is It A Problem?

During the EBC Trek with Gokyo Lake and then flying back to Kathmandu via a helicopter, trekkers are likely to spend most of the time above 3000 meters; therefore, they are most likely to get altitude sickness. This will cause height-related issues. Thus, one should take time to adapt to the new space. 

The signs of acute mountain sickness are usually headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. One has to listen to the signals that the body is sending to them and allow the body to adjust to the change in routine.

If any of the symptoms are felt, the patient should relax, eat appropriately, and, most importantly, increase the intake of water. It is wonderful to explore this beautiful area while trekking, and ensuring that you are healthy is a great reward.

Best Time To Do This Trek

Spring: March to May

The best time for the EBC trek, with Gokyo Lake and heli returning to Kathmandu, is the spring season from March to May, when the weather is stable and the temperatures are moderate, ranging from 10°C to –10°C.

The Everest area is still filled with blooming rhododendrons and other alpine flowers, which makes the area colorful. The weather is good, providing beautiful scenery of snowy mountains and calm water bodies. Also, the trekkers make the tour more colorful with festivals such as Holi, Nepali New Year, and so on. 

Autumn: September to November

The second favorable season for the EBC trek with Gokyo Lake and a Heli return to Kathmandu is autumn, which ranges from September to November. The climate is chilly and dry, and the best time to trek during the day is when temperatures range from 15°C to 5°C. Most days are bright and sunny, and visibility is crystal clear. Thus, the possibility of viewing Mount Everest clearly with the Himalayas is very much possible.

Autumn covers many of the major Nepalese festivals, like Dashain and Tihar, where foreigners in Nepal can also be part of the celebration among the locals. This is one of the favorite seasons for trekkers for the obvious reason that the weather is perfect, the landscapes are breathtaking, and there are quite many cultural events.

Off-Season Trek | Is It A Good Idea?

Going for the EBC Trek with Gokyo Lake and Heli Return to Kathmandu during off-seasons like Monsoon and Winter can be done. However, it is not recommended because of the harsh weather conditions. Here is why:

Monsoon Season (June to September)

The summer period for the Everest region falls within the June to September period, during which high humidity pervades with rainfall. This wet weather period is characterized by regular rainfall, whereby thunderstorms prevail. Temperatures remain moderate throughout the period: the average temperature during the day is 15°C/59°F while during the night at 0°C/32°F. Trails may get so slippery that the chances of getting involved in an accident are high.

Moreover, clouds and fog hinder the clear visibility of mountains, and this, in a way, reduces the whole experience of trekking. Hence, it is advisable not to go trekking during monsoons because it is dangerous, and one cannot see much. 

Winter Season (December to February)

From December to February, it is the coldest and snowiest time of the year in the Everest region. Temperatures are comparatively higher during the day and reach up to an average of -10°C, whereas in the night it gets very cold with a fall of as low as -20°C.

Long and cold winters affect the trails, creating icy paths, and this, in turn, increases the risks that hikers are bound to encounter. Some of the teahouses and lodges that are en route may be closed due to the cold, which will limit the number of places available to sleep. The extreme weather also impacts the helicopters, making the concept of Heli returns rather unreliable. Hence, the idea of trekking during the winter season is discouraged due to harsh conditions of freezing and unfavorable conditions in terms of transport.

Communication and Internet

During the Everest Base Camp trek with Gokyo Lake and Helicopter's return to Kathmandu, communication and internet facilities were not very available. Normally, remote areas have poor connectivity; therefore, by carrying a satellite phone, you are assured of constant communication. 

The NCell and NTC SIM cards can be used on a daily basis to purchase data and voice calls on the internet. However, some areas of Everest are covered by Everest Link, which can offer a fast and stable connection to the Internet. 

Lukla Flight Information

Flights to Lukla are essential for this trek since they provide a fast way of getting to the region from Kathmandu. Flights are available from Tribhuvan International Airport, and they are on a comparatively frequent basis, so it is not a problem to get to the heart of the Himalayas. The trip lasts about 45 minutes and gives a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the views of the sharp rocks and high mountains. 

The cost of tickets to these flights usually falls between NPR 23,500 and NPR 26,000 per head. It is advisable to book in advance to get a place on one of these popular flights because they are crucial for trekkers to reach the starting point of the trek to the EBC.

Packing List for The Trek

Essential Documents

• Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your trek dates.
• Trekking Permits like Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality, and Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permits.
• Travel Insurance that has coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.
• Fleece or down jackets for insulation.
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
• Lightweight and quick-dry hiking pants
• Insulated and waterproof gloves
• Warm hat for cold weather, sun hat for sunny days.
• Several pairs of moisture-wicking hiking socks and a couple of warm pairs for the evenings.
• Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support.

Gear and Accessories

• 30-40 liter daypack for day-to-day needs.
• Sleeping Bag, rated to a minimum -10°C (14°F), for comfort at higher altitudes.
• Trekking poles
• UV protective sunglasses
• Water bottles with water purification tablets or filters.

Personal Items

• Toiletries, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, etc.
• First-Aid Kit with Personal Medications and Blister Treatment
• Sunscreen, Lip Balm, and Hand Sanitizer