About the Trip
One of the most popular trekking routes, Everest Base Camp helicopter tour, is in the bucket list of everyone who loves wandering around snowcapped mountains. Sipping a warm cup of coffee in the chilly aura of the region, amidst the Himalayas, it is no wonder why it is a dream destination. Surrounded by the snow-capped mountains, including four of the world's highest peaks, this trek is a package of experience. We encounter the beauty of the mountains as we immerse in the tranquil aura of the Everest region. We also witness the enigmatic culture and tradition of the Sherpa people, and their warm hospitality is what makes the trip an unforgettable one. Bounded by loads of responsibilities, this trek package is a getaway, keeping in mind the time and effort to reach the base of Mount Everest. A short trip to Everest Base Camp, we fly to and back from the base camp with the helicopter. For them who want to enjoy the beauty of Everest base camp with minimal effort, this is simply the one. We do have a short hike till Phakding and Namche Bazaar because it impersonates the overall trek in the Everest region. Trekking this concise yet easy trail, we will also acclimatize as we experience the beauty of the mountains and the astounding landscape.
Highlights
- The most exquisite yet beautiful flight to and from Lukla
- A light hike to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest
- A scenic and thrilling flight from a helicopter to Everest Base Camp
- Get acquainted with the culture and lifestyles of the Sherpa community
- The gracefulness of the few of the world’s highest peaks, Mt. Everest (8,848m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m) and Mt. Makalu (8,463m)
- Contemplate the beauty of the highest glacier on Earth: Khumbu Glacier
- Savour the astounding beauty of the Khumbu Icefall(5,486m)
Overview
A crisp and refreshing journey to Everest Base Camp, this package is designed for those who dare to dream. Keeping aside all the stress and burden of daily life, we head to the base of the majestic Everest. A comfortable trip to the base camp, we witness the spectacular mountains accompanied by the beauty of the Sherpa culture and tradition. We relish the blanket of mountains surrounding the mystifying valley. We experience the amazement of thrilling bridges, Stupas decorated with vibrant prayer flags and the enchanting aura of the villages in Everest region. We get the luxury of skipping all the walking part while we take pleasure from the Himalayas on our short trip to EBC; Everest base camp helicopter tour.
We fly in between the clouds and above the dazzling mountains to reach Lukla(2,850m). Followed by a short hike to Phakding(2,650m), we relish our short and enjoyable walk amidst the Himalayas. Traversing through the famous suspension bridge of Everest region, over the swiftly flowing white river, we reach Namche Bazaar(3,440m). After an acclimatization day at Namche, we head to the Everest Base Camp from a helicopter. The flight is thrilling yet filled with an unquestionably beautiful view of the mountains and the villages. When the first rays of sunlight gently caress the snow-capped peaks the next morning, we’ll be there holding a cup of coffee surrounded by those pristine and pearly white mountains. We cannot see the majestic Mount Everest from the base camp, as of which we ascent further to Kala Patthar(5,550m).
We descend back to Gorak Shep(5,185m) where we hop in our helicopter for a flight back to Lukla. We return the next day to Kathmandu from Lukla and call it an end to one of our most memorable trips.
This trip is fit for everyone who wants to embrace the base of the world's highest mountain with minimal effort and fewer days. We introduce you with an offer to reach the base camp and experience a trailer of what it is like to walk in the trail. A blend of a short hike around and scenic flights, this is surely a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
In addition to this trek, we offer other exquisite trekking routes for our valuable clients. There are other thrilling trekking routes for trekkers looking for greater challenges - 12 days Everest Base Camp Trek or 10 days Everest Base Camp Trek, 15 Days Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trekking, 17 Days Everest High Three Passes Trekking and many more to choose from.
Discovery World Trekking will arrange a comfortable arrival and stay at a hotel in Kathmandu a day before our '5 Days Everest Base Camp Helicopter Trek’. Make sure to attend our official briefing a day before the trek. The primary motive for the meeting is to give you proper guidance and vital information about the trek. Secondarily, we recheck all the equipment for your comfortable journey. We ensure that you have all the supplies needed for the trek. This pre-meeting gives a clear idea about the necessary supplies and challenges you may face during the trek. It will be a kind of motivational seminar for you to be outfitted and energised about the trek. Additionally, it is recommended to put a margin of 1 or 2 days extra. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla or from Lukla to Kathmandu is unpredictable and might be cancelled or delayed due to bad weather.
Day to Day Itinerary
Flight to Lukla (2,850m/9,350 ft) 40 minutes, Trek to Phakding ( 2650 m/8562 ft ) - Walking Distance (6.2km/3.85 miles) - 3 hours
We commence our journey to the base of Everest by flying to Lukla. The 40 minutes of scenic flight, followed by a short hike to Phakding is very refreshing. We hike from Chaurikharka village to Phakding where we stop for our first night at the Khumbu region. The crisp and refreshing day is beneficial in acclimatizing with the elevation. We can seize a short excursion around the village with spare time on hand. Phakding is the starting point for this trek as of which it has everything from gears and lodging to pool and restaurants. Moreover, there are few famous local monasteries (Rimishung Monastery) that we will visit. With a little bit of hike before heading to the base camp, it will enhance our excitement as we prepare ourselves with the high altitude.
- Overnight at the best possible lodge/hotel
- Included standard meals ( Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner )
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,285 ft) - Walking Distance (7.4km/4.6 miles) - 6 hours.
We commence the hike as early as possible as we take it slow and steady to reach our destination, Namche Bazaar. We proceed along the northern bank of the Dudh Koshi River with a beguiling view surrounding us. The thrilling suspension bridges of the Everest region makes this hike even more exciting. Ornamented beautifully with prayer flags, the bridges across the Dudh Koshi River adds to a spectacular illustration of the place. We reach Monjo village after a few hours of the walk, from where the Sagarmatha National Park begins. A challenging ascent awaits from here through the dense forest, where we slowly see the face of Mount Everest. As the view emphasises, the enthusiasm assures to make us forget all the steps that we’ve ascended. Through the woods and stone paved way, we finally reach Namche Bazar. Namche Bazaar is one of the most happening places in the Everest region. The lively atmosphere and the heartwarming attitude of the Sherpa people make the stay very pleasant.
- Overnight at the best possible lodge/hotel
- Included standard meals ( Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner )
Rest day and Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
We stay at Namche Bazar for another night to acclimatize with the altitude. We stroll around Namche Bazaar and immerse in the beauty of the place. We can hike to Sagarmatha National Park and including a hike to Khumjung(3,790m). We visit Hillary school and old monasteries on the way to Khumjung. We can also further hike to Khunde. Namche, without a doubt, offers a lot of hidden wonders. A must-not-miss place is the Syangboche airport(3,780m), the highest airport in the world, and hike to Everest View Hotel from where the view of Mount Everest is excellent. We conclude our day enjoying the exquisiteness of Namche Bazaar and eating the delicious and authentic Sherpa cuisine.
- Overnight at the best possible lodge/hotel
- Included standard meals ( Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner )
Heli Flight from Namche Bazaar to Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar(5,555m/18,208ft) and fly back to Lukla (2,850m/9,350 ft)
We start the day as early as possible to savour the beauty of sun-rays kissing the Mount Everest. We fly from Namche Bazaar to the Everest Base Camp with a helicopter. Furthermore, we hike till Kala Patthar(5,555m), the highest altitude point of our trip. It may be a little challenging as we climb uphill in higher elevation. Despite the claim, it is recommended to take the ascent. Mount Everest(8,848m) hides behind Mount Lhotse(8,516m), which is why we hike to Kalapatthar to witness the mighty Everest along with other alluring Himalayan peaks. We spend quite a few times here and sip a nice cup of tea amidst the serenity of the world's highest mountains. As we descend down to Gorak Shep, we enjoy the enticing beauty of the trail. We fly back to Lukla and halt for a night. With spare time on hand, we can stroll around the Lukla village and embrace the beauty and the luxury of the place.
- Overnight at the best possible lodge/hotel
- Included standard meals ( Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner )
Fly back to Kathmandu
We have a pleasant breakfast as we enjoy the spectacle of the Himalayas before we fly back to Kathmandu. We conclude the journey to the Everest Base Camp as we enjoy the marvellous scenarios of the snow-capped mountains on our flight. We will escort you back to your hotel after reaching Kathmandu. We can manage a tour around the city as per your request. As beautiful as the mountains, the culture around the city is a must-see before you call it an end to your vacation
What is Included?
- Pick up & drop off from airport to hotel and vice versa in private vehicle
- Domestic Flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu). Tickets and airport departure taxes
- Helicopter flight from Namche - Kala Patthar (Everest Base Camp) back to Lukla
- Best Possible Teahouse, lodge accommodation (Generally twin Sharing room)- 4 Nights
- All Standard Meals (5 Lunches, 4 Dinners and 5 Breakfasts) during the trek
- Government License holder English Speaking Discovery World Trekking experienced and qualified trek leader, (8 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porter to help trekkers luggage. (2 trekkers: 1 porter "9 kg per trekker max limit")
- Coverage of Guides and Porters, Their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight and other necessary equipment like duffle bags, etc.
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
- Sagarmatha National Park entry permit fee
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
- Snacks (cookies) and Seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Arrangement of sleeping bags and down jackets if you do not have your own
- All government, Local taxes and official Expenses
- Full medical kit
- Assistance in arranging rescue operation in case of complicated health condition (funded by travel insurance)
- Provide pulse oximeter to monitor the blood oxygen saturation level at high altitude. It is an important indicator to recognize early signs of impending altitude sickness and other potential health risks
- Souvenir - A company's T-shirt & Cap
- Discovery World Trekking’s appreciation of certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell Dinner at the end of the trek
What is Excluded?
- International flight airfare
- Nepal Entry Visa Fees for multiple Entries on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport- (15 days - $25-30, 30 days- $40-50 and 90 days- $100-110)
- Excess baggage charges (Limit is 9kg per Person)
- All Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after we start our journey
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early return from the trek.
- Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boil bottled water, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters etc.
- Personal clothing and gear
- Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
- Tips for guide and porters (Recommended by the Culture)
- Additional costs or delays caused by factors outside of management control, for example, landslide, weather condition, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes etc.
- All costs and expenses not listed in "Cost Includes" will be counted as excluding costs
Equipment Checklist
Equipment lists for Everest Base Camp Trek
It is recommended to carry the basic clothing and accessories needed for the trek. The followings belongings are suggested that should be brought, although we understand that our clients have their own preference for clothing, we have listed some useful clothing during the trek. Porters will be carrying the main luggage, which should not exceed more than 18kg (one porter will carry two people's luggage, 9 kg for each). Equipment can be bought in Kathmandu at a reasonable price.
Head
- Sun hat or scarf
- Winter hat or insulating hat or a wide-brimmed hat
- Headlight with extra batteries
Face
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Face/body wipes
- Hands
- Light weight gloves
- Heavy weight winter gloves
Body
- Hiking shirts
- Long sleeved shirt
- Hooded rain jacket
- Fleece jacket
- Light weight cotton pants
- T- Shirt (bring Light weight wool)
- Polypropylene underwear
- Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)
- Sweater
- Water proof jacket and pants
Footwear
- Hiking Boots
- Thick wool socks (Take an extra pair of thick light socks)
Essential gear
- Backpack or daypack (Size depends on whether you take porter or not).
- Thermal bottle
- Water purification
- Trekking pole
- Sleeping bag (-15 degree bag is best in the high altitude trekking)
Toiletries
- Medium size drying towel
- Tooth brush
- Tooth paste
- Deodorant floss
- Bio degradable bar soap
- Nail clippers
- Small mirror
Personal accessories
- Money
- Watch
- Cell phone
- Camera
Extra items
- First aid kit
- Extra passport photos and photocopies of passport
- Notebook and pen
- Binoculars
Trip Information
The beginning of the journey towards 5 days Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. You will be required to spend the first night in a hotel in Kathmandu. The overnight stay in Kathmandu is not included in the package as there are varieties of options available for you. You can choose between hotels, lodges and homestays (both economic or luxurious) online and book it yourself or we can do it on your request. We recommend you to pre-book the hotels, as it may be hard to navigate around the new city on the first day. We are pleased to recommend or manage hotels for you on your arrival. The next day, in the early morning, we will take a domestic flight to Lukla, approximately 40 minutes flight from Kathmandu.
Don't Worry; We'll Pick You Up!
When you are new to any place, it is hard to track the location or even book a cab. To avoid such dilemmas, Discovery World Trekking provides you with free pickup and drop service for any Everest Base Camp Trek package regardless of the flight you take. We will receive you at the airport with a pamphlet of your name and our company name. With a warm-hearted welcome and either khada or a marigold garland, we will make you feel homely from day one. We will escort you safely and comfortably to your hotel.
Accommodation Details During The Trek
The trip is 5 days long with 4 nights in the mountain with the best possible lodge accommodation. We assure to make you feel homely with the warm hospitality of the local people. The higher you get the lodging facility declines a bit as in mountain regions it's hard to provide all facilities like Kathmandu city. Most of the lodges have a squat toilet system in the Everest region and a twin-sharing room with mattresses, blanket and pillows will be available. We can also manage single rooms on request, but it will cost some additional charge. Though DWT aims to provide an attached bathroom in every possible lodge, in some places, there can be a shared bathroom at higher elevation areas. The guests themselves should manage two nights in Kathmandu, which is not included in the package as there is a wide range of hotels for all kind of budgets available. You can easily book hotels online, or we can manage it for you as per your request. Discovery World Trekking has good public relations with local service providers in the Himalaya region as of which we aim to provide you with the best possible services with plenty of comforts.
Hot showers, Wi-Fi will be available at an extra cost in possible places.
The Meals
The trek is over higher elevations near the world’s highest peak, which means your body needs enough carbohydrates, protein, nutrition for the body to hike on such humongous Himalayan trails. The meal in this trek is very convenient, not like that in cities, but we make sure you get the entire supplements through your complete trek.
We will be providing you with 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunch and 4 Dinners throughout the trek.
Some of the typical food menus are -
Breakfasts - Oatmeal, Corn Flakes, French toast with Jam, Butter, Cheese and Honey Tibetan bread or Chapati Local tsampa porridge, Hashed brown eggs, Varieties of eggs (Omelettes, Poached, Boiled), Pancakes, Muesli, Bread, Fruits and Vegetables, Hot drinks like tea and coffees, hot chocolates etc.
Lunch - Typical Nepali dish (Dal, Bhat & Tarkari), Tibetan Bread, Various Soups items, Sherpa Stew, Steaks, Sandwiches, Momo (dumplings), Macaroni, Tenduk, Spaghetti Noodles, Thukpa, Pasta, Vegetable curry, Potato items, Vegetable and Salad, Pizza (Tomato, Mushroom, Mixed), Snacks (Papad, Prawn), Dessert items (Rice Pudding, Apple pie), etc.
Dinners - Dal, Bhat & Tarkari, Tibetan Bread, Various Soups items, Sherpa Stew, Steaks, Sandwiches, Momo (dumplings) Macaroni, Tenduk, Spaghetti, Noodles, Thukpa, Pasta, Vegetable curry, Potato items, Vegetable and salad, Pizza (Tomato, Mushroom, Mixed), Snacks (Papad, Prawn), Korean Noodles Ramen, Dessert items (Rice Pudding, Apple pie), Hard Drinks, etc. are available on the menu during the trek.
These food items from the menu will usually be fresh, hygienic, tasty and nutritious. The menu is a combination of traditional and local; Asian and western cuisine; almost everywhere but as we go up close, the menu list decreases. We highly recommend consuming enough liquids, green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea and garlic soup (must) at high altitude and fresh vegetables for health benefit.
Though plenty of non-veg items will be available, we won’t recommend any of them because the meat in such places may not be healthy during the trek. As suggested by experts, it is best to avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, hot chocolate, dairy and cheesy items in such high elevation treks.
All Personal Bills (Alcoholic Drinks, Hot and Cold Drinks) in tea house/ Lodges or in cafe except Standard Meals(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with seasonal fruits) are excluded from Package.
Best Time for Everest base camp helicopter tour
The weather is one of the most important factors to look at when deciding to visit the Everest Base camp cause no one is beyond nature. The live forecast of Everest base camp can be gained here, yet it’s very hard to predict the weather. People trek 12 months of the year up to Everest base camp trek but certainly, there are ups and downs in every season, It is best suited to trek during the spring and autumn as the sky is crystal clear from dusk till dawn, the rainy weather stops and thick sun-blocking clouds also fades. The magic of clear azure skies provides the most spectacular vistas. With added those breathtaking views, the temperature is also exquisite with sunlight being warm and the environment after delving of the sun is not as cold as other months.
Though during the winters and monsoon, it becomes a bit challenging to trek due to heavy snowfall, a cold temperature that’s what enthuses many trekkers.
January to February
This time is the coldest, especially from early January to early February. This when there is heavy snowfall in the mountains and can result in extremely cold temperatures. Though the daytime may be warm and admirable with clear skies, the night time would be extremely cold but it’s perfectly fine to trek in these months as discovery world trekking make sure of every possible safety during the trek but if you are allergic to extreme cold, you shouldn’t be trekking at these months or else people trek 12 months of the year and leave their footprints around the world’s highest peaks.
Temperature: Temperature ranges from 15°C to -15°C.
March to April
This is one of the best times of the season to hike in the Everest Base Camp. The weather is very favourable this month. Stunning views of the Himalaya ranges and glaciers will be seen. March being the beginning of the spring season, the weather starts to warm up during these months. During these months, all flora and fauna dormant throughout the winter back to life feeding and breeding in the sun-kissed temperatures. Temperatures may start increasing from the mid of March and with clear skies, snow mountains will be seen at their best. Many trekkers often succeed their expedition at this time.
Temperature: Around 18 °C. At night, the average minimum temperatures drop down to around -12 °C.
May to June
This is also the perfect time for trekking right before the rainfall. Nepal starts its rainfall from the end of June until mid-August. The season of spring and summer makes the trek much more enjoyable.
Temperature- Around 25°C at daylight and it drops down to around -5°C.
July to August
The rainfall hits at its peak during this time, below 3500 meters. Due to heavy rainfall, Flights to Lukla may get cancelled at the beginning or end of the trek but trekkers are seen in those months trekking towards Everest base camp, it’s challenging but not impossible, if you choose to trek in these months Discovery world trekking will take care of your safety at its fullest as it does in every month but as the way is not that favourable its not highly recommended to trek in these months but the rainfall also provides spectacular views of the waterfall and avoid the crowds like other months.
Temperature- Around 27°C at daylights to 5°C
September to October
This is also one of the perfect seasons for the EBC Trek. This season is the peak of tourists due to the favourable weather. As the monsoon slowly ends, a perfect trekking climate sets itself. The temperature goes up to 20 degrees in the daytime and falls down to 5 degrees during the night-time. This season is when trekkers enjoy trekking the most, with a clear sky, and an amazing view of the mountains. It is highly recommended, as it’s the best time for the Everest Base Camp trek, usually from mid-September to end. The main festival of Nepal: Dashain and Tihar also attract tourists in this season.
Temperature- Temperature goes up to 20 degrees in the day time and falls down to 5 degrees
November to December
As winter slowly begins, snowfalls begin in the Himalaya region and it eventually gets tough to trek. Nights get colder. November is the busy season people all over the world come at these months, as it’s the clearest month with sparkling days and amazing views of humongous mountains. The daytime temperatures are very stable and constant and due to this, the view of the clear blue sky and the mountain is phenomenal. From December, the temperature starts to get cold and begins to snow like diamonds in the sky.
Please Note: The weather in the Himalaya is so unpredictable and the temperature may change quickly from day to night.
Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is commonly faced by many trekkers who try to rush their way to the base camp. It is not a matter of ignorance and requires immediate treatment in such cases. To avoid such, in this trek, we will be acclimatizing in two places: Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. This trek is relatively at ease compared to the Everest Base Camp 10 or 12 days’ trek. At Namche Bazaar, trekkers can explore the famous Sherpa town and adjust to the thin air. We will also be having second-day acclimatization at Dingboche where we will climb the ridge behind the village to take a look at the stunning views of the peaks. Our trekking leader and guide are well trained and experienced at high altitude, and they have extensive first aid training as well. Your health and safety are important to us, and we guarantee that it will be our very first priority. In case you have been rigorously affected, the only remedy would be to descend immediately. Also, your group leader has the definitive response to determine whether you can proceed the trek based on your health conditions.
Trip Grade: Fitness level, Medical, and Health
As challenging as it is, the Everest Base Camp Trek is an equally rewarding trek. On average, the walk per day will be around 5 to 7 hours, depending on the destination and the number of breaks we take. The trail is mostly uphill or steep descents, with rocky and stone paved paths. It is not impossible to go to these treks for a regular person, but remaining fit and exercising well will make the trek more comfortable and enjoyable. Former trek experience or regular exercises and doing yoga is an advantage for the trekker. Besides, if you love trekking, you can make it happen anyways and conquer your dreams.
This trek, however, is not recommended for individuals with sensitive medical conditions like heart or lung disease. Since the majority of the trek involves moderate to strenuous climbing, it may prove to be dangerous for the health of such people. We recommend you to consult with your doctor before attempting to attain this trek. Also, we make sure to provide you with all the necessary medical kit supplies you may need in the trek
Trekking group/single
The group for the trek usually consists from 2 to 12 people. A leader, assistant guide, and porters will accompany a group of 8 throughout the trek. It is a great time to enjoy your hike with various trekkers from around the world. You may choose to trek with a random group or limit it to your own. We will also be glad to organize a private trek with your friends and family only. We generally recommend travelling in a group rather than an individual due to safety concerns. Also, it is always good when you can share your happiness and experience once you step on the base of Everest.
A typical day on the trek
Every day will be rewarded with a unique experience of trekking, climbing enjoying the scenery, taking photos and exploring the local villages. During the expedition, experienced friendly and qualified expert Sherpa will share information and historical facts about the places as they accompany us throughout the trek. The porters who carry our luggage will also accompany us. However, we will be carrying our own small backpack with the necessary items.
The day starts with an early morning hot cup of tea/coffee. After packing our bags and gorging on a wholesome breakfast, we set off on the days walk around 7 AM to 8 AM, depending on the duration and nature of the days walk. After trekking for three to four hours, we will have lunch around midday on the route to the next destination, and we continue after about an hour of rest.
The afternoon walk is generally shorter: about two to three hours. Once we reach our overnight lodge/tea house/tent, we snack on the extra dietary food. We will also have free time to explore nearby places.
Dinner is served around 6 PM to 7 PM. Before going to bed, we will spend some quality time in friendly conversations and discuss the experience of that day. The expedition leader/guide will brief us about the next day’s plan. After this briefing, we enjoy on board games like monopoly, cards and watch available mountaineering documentaries. Most of the foreigners indulge in light and fun learning of Nepalese language from our crew or read books before heading off to bed for a well-deserved sleep.
Communication on trek
On the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour, the use of Internet service will be available at the lodge with some extra service charge. You can contact your family and friends via the lodges. But once we reach high altitudes, communication will be through the phone, for safety proposes.
We'll communicate with all our valuable clients through our leader at least once a day to make sure you're alright and satisfied with our service. Also, depending on the kind of network you use, the signal might fluctuate as you climb uphill. On your request, we can provide you with a separate local sim-card for communication. (Most of the places have Wi-Fi service available with an additional cost)
Normally Wi-Fi works in every part of the trek in hotel/lodges which will be provided with an extra cost.
Extra personal expenses on trekking
Discovery World Trekking tries to provide all extra expenses excluded from the package. Meals and accommodations in Kathmandu are up to our clients themselves as all kinds of hotels/lodges (both luxury & budget) can be booked easily online or even we can do it for on request. All our valuable clients will have to bring personal spending money with them to cover the costs of accommodations in Kathmandu, visa process, travel insurance policy purchase, beverages, snacks for the trek, hot and cold drinks, tips to the trekking crew members, souvenirs etc. We recommend bringing cash (dollars) that can be changed to rupees here cause during the trek as only Nepalese currency is accepted.
Electricity and battery recharge, water on the EBC helicopter Tour
Throughout the lodges at Everest base camp, electricity for the camera and mobile battery recharge is available with an extra cost. Most of the lodges have hydroelectricity, and some of them have solar panels. Water during the trek: you can buy either packed mineral water from local lodges and en route shop or filling boiled water at an extra cost. A water purification pill will be provided to make water drinkable.
You shouldn't drink water from the river, tap, well up there cause it might not be drinkable as it seems.
Travel insurance
This trip grade is ranked the challenging difficult as it entails the risk of high altitude trekking, potential altitude sickness and other unforeseen events including sudden climate changes.
Travel insurance is a significant part of our booking condition for The Everest base camp trek. All the members of trekking must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate to Discovery World Trekking. The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation inclusive of helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitude (up to 6000m) for trekking members.
We can recommend insurance companies to help you but we don’t directly get involved in the sale of an insurance policy. Members can be refused to be included in the trekking based on insufficient, improper or absence of travel insurance policy.
Trekking members are kindly requested to send their detailed insurance information once they book for trekking. In case of emergency situations, we will be using the insurance policy and informational documents you sent us. This will help in arranging quick and effective rescue operation, transfer for emergency medical help. Please ensure that the insurance company includes the cost incurred for mountain rescue service at the highest elevation of the trekking.
Before you buy travel insurance (Don't just believe them what they say in their website) make sure you call them and recheck if they have Helicopter-rescue and evacuation up to 6000m according to your trekking height.
Passport and visa
All foreigners except Indians require a visa to enter Nepal. Visa is available on arrival in the Tribhuvan International airport. Visa can be extended at the central immigration office www.immigratiion.gov.np The visa application will require at least a passport of 6 months’ validity, and a passport size photo. The current cost of visa fee is the US $40 for 30 days, which have to be paid in cash on arrival on Tribhuvan International Airport. Citizens of China and the SAARC countries will receive a free visa. There are certain countries (Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan) that may not receive the visa on arrival and so you will have to contact your local Nepalese embassy.
Money exchange
Nepali Rupees (NPR) is the local currency.
(1 USD = ~ Rs.100 NPR).
We can exchange most of the foreign currencies through local banks and legitimate money exchanges in Kathmandu and all over Thamel. Small amounts of cash can also be exchanged at the hotel.
The ongoing rate of exchange is visibly displayed. The government of Nepal has banned the import, export and use of 500 and 1000 Indian Rupee note in Nepal. You should ensure that you are not carrying these notes on arrival in Nepal as they will be confiscated and you may also be fined.
Despite having security advantage of traveller's cheques, we prefer cash exchange to avoid hassles like a lengthy process and high rate of commission at the banks. You can withdraw cash (in Rupees only) from one of the many ATMs in Kathmandu and Thamel itself. There are quite several ATMs that are open around the clock. The maximum withdrawal amount is 35,000 Rupees for a 500 Rupees processing fee if you are using your foreign card.
If you use the money exchange facility at banks and financial institutions the service fee charge imposed is about 4% or more depending upon the bank.
During the trek, there are no banks and money exchange services so you should exchange your money in Kathmandu only, depending on how much personal expense you require as in Himalayan region people only accept Nepalese Currency
Most of the established banks in Asia will not accept foreign currency notes that are old, torn or faded. Please ensure that you have new, clean notes
How Much Luggage can I take during Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
The weight limit for your luggage is 9 kg per trekker, Porters will be assigned to carry your luggage, two people will be assigned with one porter, and combined luggage should not exceed more than 18kg. We never overload our porters. But you should carry your own knapsack or backpack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. Only carry what are essentials, you can leave any excess baggage either at your hotel or at the Discovery World Trekking store for free and it'll be completely safe.
We'll recheck everything (Luggage, equipment, etc) in our briefing before we start our journey from our Office.
Everest Base Camp Trek Safety
Discovery World Trekking guarantees our valuable clients safety, security, and satisfaction. Safety is the utmost important concern for us. For the trek, we will be carrying all the necessary gear, equipment, and first aid kits. Our leaders and guides have vast knowledge and have extensive first aid training. If a trekker falls sick due to the altitude, it is entirely up to the trekker to decide if he/she will further continue, as health is very important. In case of emergency, the rescue helicopter will always be ready to bring you back from the higher elevation. During the trek, every group will be together so that everyone is safe and won't wander off alone.
Responsible Travel
We strongly believe that our environment has to be protected as tourism may bring negative effects on it. We highlight the positive aspects of tourism on the environment. Furthermore, Discovery World Trekking works together with the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) and organizes eco-friendly trips about most environmentally sensitive and culturally rewarding that meet the expectation of both travellers and communities.
Discovery World Trekking Crews
During the Everest Base Camp Trek, you will be accompanied by our local best-trained and well-experienced guides / Sherpa to make your journey even more comfortable and memorable. All guides are well trained licensed with a prior experience they have spent years trekking / climbing the peak all over the world. Porters will also be assigned to carry your luggage. Two people will be assigned to one porter. Combined luggage should not exceed more than 18 kg. We never overload our porters. We divide a proportion of one porter for two members and one assistant guide with 8 members. If required we can also have one porter per person. Our crew members are the local people of high Himalaya remote areas and their physical endurance and heredity nature can live easily and comfortably at high altitude without being affected. All our staffs are very valuable to us, they are well paid and we take care of their insurance, clothing, food and lodging throughout the expedition. All our Guides and Porters receive Medical care when ill or injured. We always make sure that they are happy as we believe that only happy people can make others happy The local expert trek leader to guide you is specialized under the following subject. We provide basic accommodation for our guides and porters or tent with the sleeping gear and we also provided them with food and warm drinks.
- Intensive wilderness first Aid
- Authorized certificate of Trekking Guide Training
- Fluent English speakers and other major languages as well
- Conservation and biodiversity
- Rock climbing
Tipping
Most importantly, tipping is at traveller’s discretion and should be relied on good service that does not form the part of wages for your Guides, porters and crew although they are very much appreciated. In Nepalese culture, a tip is an accepted and honoured way to say thank you (Dhanyabada) for good service. Normally the tips are offered at the end of the trek and this is best done as a group. Most groups will give the trips in farewell dinner on the last evening or last day of the trek, to mark the end of the trip. The amount of the trip is entirely a personal preference that may be more or less depending upon your perception of service quality, length of trip, budget and appreciation of their work. It is important to Discovery World Trekking crews who professionally take care of you all the time during the trekking, inspire excellent service and offer enriching journey- a trip of once in a lifetime experience. We ensure that all of our crews including guides and porters are paid well and treated fairly with respect.
Booking and payment process
Discovery world trekking is a government authorized, registered, licensed and bonded as trekking and touring operator in Nepal. The company-registered number is 87657/068/069. We are a member of Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Therefore, book Discovery World Trekking trip with confidence as we are reliable.10% of payment in advance and other necessary documentation like passport copy, passport size photos, travel insurance policy, arrival and departure flight detailed can be made later but must not exceed within two weeks’ period from the booking date. The number of domestic flights for Lukla is limited but being very busy during the trekking seasons. Payment is to be made by bank transfer, western union and online payment directly from our website. The remaining trip cost can be paid whether in cash or by bank transfer and credit card when your arrival in Nepal. Furthermore, we put forward the necessary modes of payment details as per your convenient by mail.
Last minute booking
Discovery World Trekking has offered the special provision of last minute booking with regard to The Everest Base Camp trek. Under this condition, the last-minute booking with 100% trip payment within 24 hours is accepted
Trip extension
After the completion of the trek, you may want to stay a couple of days extra in Nepal. With the free time, exploring, visiting a tour of Kathmandu, sightseeing, Nagarkot view trip, Chitwan jungle safari, paragliding, rafting, canoeing are such activities that can be done.
Feedback
After completing the Everest Base Camp trek, there will be a farewell dinner held where Discovery World trekking will give you company t-shirt, digitally printed certificate of trek achievement along with a key ring. We would highly appreciate if you would give compliments, comment or complain about the service provided and the team performances as we always strive to be better.
Trip Reviews
Experience of a lifetime!
I booked a 10 day hiking trip to Everest base camp with Discovery World Trekking. Paul, the owner of the company was incredibly resourceful in arranging everything for me. I had nothing to worry about but just take in the raw beauty of the Himalayas and enjoy my trek. From the time of landing at the airport to the departure, everything was taken care of in a concierge style with utmost punctuality and ease. I would not do it any other way. Nepal is not easy to navigate by yourself and I would strongly recommend Discovery World Trekking as they took care of everything. I had a guide and a porter with me the entire time which made this trip worry-free and very enjoyable. The personal touch that Paul and his company invests in their clients is priceless. He was also able to arrange for a helicopter tour of Everest base camp which was a life-changing experience! I can’t thank him enough for his hard work and diligence in making my dreams come true!
