Everest View Trek With Gokyo Helicopter Tour - 5 Days

Everest View Trek Permit

Sagarmatha National Park's rich biodiversity makes it a protected area designated by the government of Nepal. Entry into this restricted region requires various permits and documents. Multiple check posts along the trekking route have officials who thoroughly check licenses. Without the correct documentation, trekkers cannot proceed and may have to turn back.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

A permit is required to enter Sagarmatha National Park. It helps protect the environment, including rivers, forests, and wildlife, as well as the safety of trekkers. You can get the permit through a trekking company in Kathmandu or the Sagarmatha National Park office in Monjo. The cost of the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit is as follows:

• For foreigners: NPR 3,000 per person
• For SAARC nationals: NPR 1,500 per person
• For Nepalese: NPR 100 per person

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

It is now the replacement for the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card. The Khumbu rural municipality permit is issued by the Khumbu Municipality and can be obtained at Monjo or Lukla. There is no authorized office in Kathmandu, so trekkers must obtain the permit on the way to Everest. The cost of the permit is as follows:

• For foreigners, including those from SAARC countries, NPR is 2,000 per person for the first four weeks.
• For foreigners, including those from SAARC countries, the NPR is 2,500 per person after four weeks.

TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)

Now, it is not mandatory for all trekkers in the Everest Region to obtain a TIMS Card. It has been replaced by the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.

Important Document for Permit

• A passport is required for foreign travel.
• Usually 1-2 passport-size photographs
• Nepal Entry Visa that has a valid visa stamped in the passport
• Nepali Cash for smooth permit process

Note: Trekking Planner Nepal Pvt. Ltd. can obtain both permits on your behalf for a hassle-free experience.

Everest View Trek With Gokyo Helicopter Tour- 5 Days Altitude and Distance Coverage

Day	Activity	Altitude (m/ft)	Distance (km/miles)	Duration (hours)	Elevation Gain (m/ft)
1	Flight to Lukla , 35 min, and trek to Phakding .	2,860 m / 9,383 ft 2,610 m / 8,562 ft	8 km / 5 miles	3-4 hrs	-250 m / -820 ft
2	Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar .	3,440 m / 11,286 ft	10-12 km / 6-7.5 miles	5-6 hrs	+830 m / +2,723 ft
3	Rest and acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar.	3,440 m / 11,286 ft	Optional short hikes	Optional (2-3 hrs)	+400 m / +1,312 ft (hike)
4	Helicopter tour from Namche to Gokyo , explore Gokyo Lakes, and fly to Lukla.	4,790 m / 15,715 ft (Gokyo)	-	Approx. 2 hrs (tour)	+1,350 m / +4,429 ft
5	Fly back to Kathmandu .	1,350 m / 4,430 ft	-	35 min flight	-1,478 m / -4,854 ft

When is the best season or month for Everest View Trek With Gokyo Helicopter Tour?

The best time to trek to the Everest region and take a Gokyo Helicopter Tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

During spring, the weather is generally clear and dry, making it ideal for trekking and helicopter tours. The skies are usually blue, and the views of the mountains are spectacular. The temperatures are mild, and the flowers and trees are in bloom, adding to the region's natural beauty.

The autumn season is also an excellent time to undertake this trek. The weather is stable, and the skies are generally clear, offering fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. The mild temperatures make it comfortable to trek during the day, and the trail is usually dry and firm, making it easier to walk on.

During both seasons, the Everest Region experiences many trekkers and tourists, so planning and booking your trek and helicopter tour in advance is essential. Additionally, the winter months (December to February) and the monsoon season (June to August) can be challenging due to cold temperatures, snow, and heavy rainfall, making them less suitable for trekking and helicopter tours.

Local culture and religion seen on the trail of Everest and during Gokyo Heli Tour.

Everest Region is home to the Sherpa people, who are primarily Buddhists and follow a unique culture that is closely tied to their religious beliefs. As you trek through the region, you will come across several Buddhist Monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens (stone monuments), which are integral parts of Sherpa Culture and Religion.

The Sherpas are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors, and you may have the opportunity to learn more about their traditions and customs during your trek. Here are some aspects of local culture and religion that you may encounter:

• Buddhism: Buddhism is the predominant religion in the Everest Region, and you will come across several Buddhist monasteries and temples during your trek. The Tengboche Monastery is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in the region and is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful wall paintings.
• Sherpa Culture: Sherpa culture is closely tied to the natural environment and revolves around the farming and herding of yaks and sheep. You may have the opportunity to visit a Sherpa village and learn more about their customs and traditions.
• Prayer Flags: Along the trail, you will see prayer flags of different colors and sizes fluttering in the wind. These flags are believed to spread good luck and positive energy and are essential to Buddhist culture.
• Chortens: Chortens are small stone monuments that are found throughout the region. These structures contain sacred relics and are considered powerful symbols of faith and devotion.
• Mani Walls: Mani walls are stone walls inscribed with the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum," an essential Buddhist prayer. Walking clockwise around these walls brings good luck and positive energy.

As a visitor, it's essential to respect local customs and beliefs and to be mindful of your actions and behavior. Learning about the local culture and religion can enhance your trekking experience and provide a deeper understanding of the region's significance.

Accommodation and food option

Accommodation Options

Accommodation ranges from tea houses, lodges, and guest houses, providing comfortable, safe places to rest and relax. According to your budget, you can choose accommodation. The accommodation options are listed below:

• Tea house: a simple, affordable lodge along the way. They provide basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and pillows. Warm meals and water are usually provided in the dining area.
• Lodges: They are slightly larger than tea houses and are often available in towns like Namche Bazaar, offering better-quality rooms, shared bathrooms, and comfortable beds.
• Guest House: It is found in large villages and is a bit expensive. Facilities include private rooms with clean, comfortable beds, an attached bathroom, and heating in the common area.

Food options

Food habits differ from place to place. Especially at higher altitudes, the cold climate and low oxygen levels can cause a loss of appetite. So, travelers should include high-energy, warming foods such as barley, potatoes, buckwheat, and animal products in their daily diet.

The food options in the Khumbu region are given below:

• Breakfast: Oatmeal, nuts, eggs, breads, boiled potatoes, milk teas or yak milk teas, toast, seasonal fruit
• Lunch: Dal Bhat, Veg Fried Rice, Egg Fried Rice, Rice Pudding, Momo, Noodles, Pasta, Macaroni, Spaghetti, Pizza, Sandwiches, Potatoes, Fried Chips, Sherpa Stew, Burgers, Spring Rolls, Yak Steak, Thukpa, and others.
• Dinner: Dal Bhat, Noodles, Chowmein, Yak steak, Fried rice, Mo:Mo, pasta, Vegetable curry, Thukpa (noodles which contain different vegetables with hot soup)
• Desserts: Apple pie with custard, Fried Mars Bars, Chocolate Pudding, Rice Pudding, Apple Filter, German Bakery Products, and Fried Snicker rolls.
• Beverages: Black tea, milk tea, lemon tea, coffee, hot chocolate, juice, and other soft drinks

Note: To prevent altitude sickness and maintain good health, avoid alcohol, smoking, and excessive coffee intake.

Why doesn’t the helicopter stop at Everest Base Camp?

The helicopter doesn't stop at Everest Base Camp during the Gokyo Valley Heli tour for several reasons:

• Safety concerns: Everest Base Camp is 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), and the air pressure and oxygen levels are low. The risk of altitude sickness and other health issues is higher at this altitude, and the weather conditions can be unpredictable. The helicopter may not be able to land or take off safely at this altitude, which can be dangerous for both passengers and crew.
• Environmental Impact: The Everest region is a delicate ecosystem, and the local authorities have implemented strict regulations to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment. Landing a helicopter at Everest Base Camp Trek can have a significant impact on the fragile ecosystem of the region.
• Physical fitness: Trekking to Everest Base Camp requires high physical fitness and acclimatization to the altitude. Many people who visit the region may not have the physical fitness or necessary time to trek to Everest Base Camp.

Instead, the helicopter tour offers stunning views of the mountains and landscapes from a safe distance. It also provides an opportunity to see the beauty of the Gokyo Valley, which is equally mesmerizing and less crowded than the Everest Base Camp Area.

Why doesn’t the helicopter take five people towards Gokyo?

The helicopter used for the Gokyo has a limited carrying capacity, and its weight and balance must be carefully managed for safety reasons. Therefore, the number of passengers allowed on the helicopter is restricted, and it usually takes up to four passengers, including the pilot.

The helicopter's payload capacity is also limited, and it can carry only a certain amount of fuel, supplies, and equipment. The weight of the passengers and their luggage also needs to be factored in when determining the number of passengers the helicopter can accommodate.

Therefore, it's not possible to take five people on the Gokyo Valley Helicopter Tour, as this may exceed the helicopter's carrying capacity and pose a safety risk. For the safety of all passengers and the crew, it's important to follow the helicopter's weight and balance limitations.

Why go on a trip from Lukla to Namche by Trekking and to Gokyo via Helicopter?

Trekking from Lukla to Namche Bazaar is a popular route in the Everest Region and offers a unique opportunity to experience the local culture, traditions, and scenery up close. This well-established route has several tea houses, lodges, and restaurants along the way, making it a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.

On the other hand, the Gokyo Valley is relatively remote and less accessible by foot, especially if you're short on time or have physical limitations. A helicopter tour to Gokyo Valley offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the region in a short period of time and from a bird' s-eye view.

The helicopter tour allows you to see the stunning landscapes, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped mountains from a different perspective. It also offers an opportunity to visit Gokyo Ri, a spectacular viewpoint that provides a panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Combining trekking from Lukla to Namche Bazaar with a Gokyo Valley helicopter tour allows you to experience the best of both worlds. You get to explore the local culture and scenery up close while trekking, and you also get to witness the stunning beauty of the Gokyo Valley from a unique perspective during the helicopter tour.

Is travel insurance required for trekking to Everest or for the helicopter flight to Gokyo?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for this trip. Trekking in the Everest Region and taking a Gokyo heli tour involves some level of risk, and travel insurance can provide coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations, flight delays, baggage loss or theft, and other unforeseen events.

In particular, trekking at high altitudes can increase the risk of altitude sickness and other medical emergencies, which can be costly to treat. Travel Insurance with adequate coverage for emergency medical expenses and evacuation is essential to ensure you receive medical care and assistance in an emergency.

Additionally, some tour operators may require proof of travel insurance before allowing you to join the trek or the helicopter tour.

Before purchasing travel insurance, carefully review the coverage and policy terms and conditions to ensure that they meet your needs and provide adequate protection for your trip.

Can trekkers get Altitude sickness during the Trek or Gokyo Helicopter Tour?

Altitude sickness is a common concern while trekking in the Everest Region and taking a Helicopter Tour, as both activities involve exposure to high altitudes. Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is caused by reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes, leading to a range of symptoms.

The symptoms of altitude sickness may include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In more severe cases, altitude sickness can lead to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, it's essential to acclimatize properly by gradually ascending to higher altitudes and allowing your body time to adjust to the changes in air pressure and oxygen levels. Staying hydrated, avoiding overexertion, and listening to your body is also essential.

If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, it's essential to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical attention. In cases of severe symptoms, evacuating to a lower elevation may be necessary for treatment.

During the Gokyo heli tour, it's important to follow the safety guidelines provided by the helicopter crew, including using oxygen masks if necessary. The crew may also monitor passengers for signs of altitude sickness and provide medical assistance if needed.

Overall, it's essential to be aware of the risk of altitude sickness while trekking in the Everest Region and on a heli tour to Gokyo and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Types of helicopters used during the Gokyo helicopter tour.

Several types of helicopters are commonly used for helicopter tours in the Everest Region. The choice of helicopter may depend on various factors, including the number of passengers, the altitude of the destination, and the weather conditions. Some of the commonly used helicopters for Everest Region tours include:

• Eurocopter AS350 B3e: This popular single-engine helicopter can carry up to six passengers and is known for its reliability and performance in high altitudes and rugged terrain.
• Eurocopter AS350 B2: This is another popular single-engine helicopter with a seating capacity of up to five passengers. In terms of performance and reliability, the AS350 B2 is similar to the B3e.
• Bell 407: This is a single-engine helicopter with a seating capacity of up to six passengers. It is known for its speed, maneuverability, and comfort.
• Airbus AS350 H125: This is a high-performance single-engine helicopter with a seating capacity of up to six passengers. The H125 is known for its exceptional power, speed, and range, making it ideal for high-altitude operations.
• Robinson R66: This popular light, single-engine helicopter can accommodate up to four passengers. It is known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable cabin.

Regardless of the type of helicopter used, safety is always a top priority for tour operators. The helicopters used for Everest region tours are typically well-maintained, and the pilots are highly experienced in flying at high altitudes and challenging terrain.

How do you prepare and what do you pack for a short trek with a Gokyo helicopter tour?

Preparing and packing for a 5 Days trek with a Gokyo Valley Helicopter Tour requires careful planning to ensure you have everything you need for the journey. Here are some tips on how to prepare and what to pack:

• Physical preparation: Trekking in the Everest Region requires a good fitness level. You can start by doing cardiovascular exercises and building strength through resistance training.

Packing List

• Clothing: comfortable trekking shoes, trekking pants, T-shirts, fleece jackets, thermal undergarments, a waterproof jacket, and a warm hat.
• Gear: Sleeping bag, Trekking poles, Headlamp, Sunglasses, water bottle, and backpack.
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and toilet paper.
• First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, altitude sickness medication, and any prescription medications
• Weather Conditions: The weather in the Everest Region can be unpredictable, so it's essential to check the weather forecast before you start packing. It is also recommended to dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
• Helicopter Tour: During the helicopter tour, it's recommended to wear comfortable and warm clothing, as it can be cold at higher altitudes. Additionally, carry a camera, extra batteries, and memory cards to capture the stunning views.
• Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness is a common concern while trekking in the Everest Region. Carry altitude sickness medication and consult your doctor before the trip.

In summary, preparing and packing for a short trek with a helicopter tour to Gokyo requires a balance between comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Plan ahead, pack wisely, and stay mindful of the weather and altitude conditions to make the most of your trip.

If you want to customize the trip or custom hand-picked facilities instead of the whole package, we also have those services, for example.

• Nepal Trekking Planner can provide customized tailored itineraries for our client’s Everest View Trek With Gokyo Helicopter needs.
• Trekking Planner Nepal can conduct the trip by providing a guide and porters-only service for the Everest View Trek with Gokyo Helicopter Tour, which lasts 5 Days.
• Trekking Planner Nepal can provide accommodation-only facilities for the Everest View Trek With Gokyo Helicopter Tour if required.
• Trekking Planner Nepal can provide flight tickets for Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu.
• Trekking planner Nepal can provide only flight service from Ramechhap to Lukla and Lukla to Ramechhap.
• Trekking Planner Nepal provides only vehicle service from Kathmandu to Ramechhap and Ramechhap to Kathmandu.

Note that from April 2024, the flights will take place from Ramechhap, which is around 3/4 hours of drive, depending on whether you are taking a private vehicle or want to join a group to share the cost of a coaster or a bus.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has implemented new rules that prohibit helicopter

landing at Kalapatthar as well as Everest Base Camp. The new rule permits only private helicopters with the number of passengers limited to fewer than two people to land at Kalapatthar. Similarly, sharing helicopters can fly over but cannot land at Kalapatthar.

Don't forget these things when driving to Ramechhap for the Lukla Flight.

• If you take a private vehicle, you can reach around a 3-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, and the car will pick you up at the hotel or the place you choose.
• If you’re taking a shared bus or coaster towards Ramechhap, you have to go from your place to the bus, which will have other trekkers joining as well. As soon as everyone arrives, the bus or coaster will move towards Ramechhap airport.

Everest Base Camp Trekking Tips for Females.

• Ladies and women need to keep track of their periods.
• After tracking the periods, always keep two packs of sanitary pads with you.
• In the mountains, during the cold, you can feel cramps, and bleeding can be a little more than normal, so feel free to let the guide know about the situation and consume painkillers in case of cramps.

Recommended Read:

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Namche to Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour -1 Day

Luxury Holiday in Nepal with Everest Helicopter Tour

Advantage of Booking Everest view trek with Gokyo heli tour with Trekking Planner Nepal.

• Private vehicles pick up and drop off passengers at all airports.
• First-aid kit box.
• Trekking Planner’s down jackets, t-shirt, and cap, if necessary.
• Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (you should have insurance for emergency evacuation, which will be paid for by your travel insurance company).
• We use an oximeter to check your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate, and we provide oxygen.
• Sim cards are provided by our company for travelers, so there won’t be any networking issues.

Conclusion

The Everest View trek with Gokyo Helicopter tour offers stunning views of the Mountains, cultural experiences, and Gokyo tours. This is a perfect trek to explore the mountains and traditional villages. So, join Nepal Trekking Planner for a well-organized Everest View trek with a Gokyo Helicopter Tour. You are guided by an experienced local guide with a strong porter. We are dedicated to providing professional service and making your dream come true.