Frequently Asked Questions
How this trek works
What is the 7-day Everest View Heli Trek?
A short programme for people with limited time: you fly to Lukla, walk to Namche Bazaar, rest for a day, and then take a shared helicopter from Namche for a flight over Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu Icefall.
What does the helicopter do exactly?
On Day 5 it picks you up at Namche Bazaar, flies over Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu Icefall, lands at Kala Patthar (about 5,545m) and then takes you back to Lukla. The flight is a flyover of Base Camp, not a landing there.
Is the helicopter included, and is it shared?
Yes, a shared Everest helicopter tour from Namche is in the inclusions. It is not private.
Do I actually trek to Base Camp?
No. You walk from Lukla to Phakding and on to Namche Bazaar, and that is the extent of the trek. Base Camp and Kala Patthar are reached by air.
What is the day-by-day plan?
Day 1 Kathmandu, Day 2 flight to Lukla and walk to Phakding, Day 3 Namche Bazaar, Day 4 rest and optional hike to Everest View Point, Day 5 helicopter and back to Lukla, Day 6 flight to Kathmandu, Day 7 departure.
Weather and flights
Is the helicopter flight guaranteed?
No. Helicopters fly only in safe weather. If Day 5 is cancelled, we look for another window if your schedule allows. Keep spare days in your plans.
Do the Lukla flights run from Kathmandu?
They run from and to Ramechhap while Kathmandu airport is being upgraded. You drive about 4.5 hours each way, with an early start around 2am on Day 2 and a 4 to 6 hour drive back.
What if flights are cancelled?
We rebook you on the next flight. Extra hotel nights and meals are your cost, and no refund is made for unused days. Book a flexible onward ticket.
What is the best season?
February to May and September to December. The monsoon is very wet, and winter snow can close higher trails and delay flights.
Fitness and altitude
How fit do I need to be?
Basic fitness. Walking days are 3 to 6 hours, and Namche (3,440m) is the highest night. You should be comfortable with stairs and uphill.
Is altitude sickness a risk?
Mild symptoms are possible at Namche, and the helicopter takes you to 5,545m for a short time. Tell your guide if you feel unwell, and follow their advice. The rest day helps.
Is it suitable for children, seniors or people with limited mobility?
Many families and older travellers do it, but check with your doctor, especially for the altitude. Tell us the ages and health of your group.
What is included and what costs extra
What is included?
Two nights in Kathmandu with breakfast, round-trip flights between Ramechhap and Lukla, the shared helicopter, trekking accommodation, airport transfers, permits and TIMS, a licensed guide, porter service, taxes, a first aid kit, a certificate and a farewell dinner. Meals are included on 5 of the 7 days.
What is not included?
Travel insurance, visa, bottled water, the two meals not covered, gear rental (about USD 20 for a sleeping bag and USD 15 for a down jacket), tips and pocket money. Plan about INR 1,000 per day.
What insurance do I need?
Insurance is mandatory. It must cover trekking at your highest altitude, emergency medical treatment and helicopter evacuation. Send us a copy before you travel, and see the insurance section of our terms.
Who guides the trip?
A licensed guide employed by Himalayan Wonders Adventure Pvt. Ltd. See the team page.
Money, booking and changes
How do I pay for the Everest View Heli Trek?
Pay a deposit to book. Indian guests pay by bank transfer or UPI, since we do not take credit cards in India. Guests outside India can pay by transfer or online card (4.5% processing fee). You pay the balance at our Kathmandu office on arrival in INR, USD, EUR, GBP or another major currency. Cards used in Nepal add 13%, so cash is cheaper.
Is my deposit refundable?
50% is refundable for 30 days after you book, and after that it is not. The deposit stays valid for 365 days and can be moved to any trek or climb we offer. If you do not contact us and do not arrive, it is forfeited.
Can I change my dates?
Yes. Rescheduling is free as many times as you need with at least 6 weeks' notice, and any change needs at least 14 days' notice. You pay any price difference between the old and new date.
What if I leave early?
We cannot refund unused days or services, because guides, porters and hotels are paid for the full period. We help you return, but extra nights, meals and transport are your cost. Some insurers reimburse unused days, so check your policy.
Do I pay extra if I travel alone?
There is no single supplement when you join a group. If you are the only booking on a fixed departure, a Solo Support Fee of INR 1,500 per day covers a dedicated porter, and we tell you at booking or as soon as it arises.
Who looks after me in Nepal?
Your guide, porters and drivers, and our Kathmandu office staff, are all employed by Himalayan Wonders Adventure Pvt. Ltd., the Nepal operator that runs your trip. Read about them on the team page.
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