An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Everest Cho La Pass Trek – 18 Days
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek is a challenging 18-day trekking package in Nepal. It connects the classic Everest Base Camp route with the beautiful Gokyo Lakes route.
This trek is perfect for trekkers who want more adventure than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek. It includes Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Cho La Pass, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri.
The route starts with a scenic flight to Lukla. Then, the trail follows Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, Dzongla, Cho La Pass, Thagnak, Gokyo, Dole, and back to Lukla.
The trek reaches Everest Base Camp at around 5,364m. It also crosses Cho La Pass at around 5,420m. Then, it reaches Gokyo Ri at 5,357m, a famous viewpoint with wide views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Nepal Tourism Board describes Gokyo Valley as famous for turquoise lakes and views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
This trek offers views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Thamserku, Kangtega, and many other Himalayan peaks.
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek – 18 Days is suitable for experienced trekkers, fit adventure travelers, photographers, mountain lovers, and trekkers who want both Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes in one journey.
Why Choose Everest Cho La Pass Trek?
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek is one of the best adventure treks in the Everest region. It combines three major highlights: Everest Base Camp, Cho La Pass, and Gokyo Lakes.
This trek is more exciting than the regular Everest Base Camp route. Also, it is more scenic than a simple return trek because you cross into the Gokyo Valley.
The trail offers Sherpa culture, Buddhist monasteries, glacier paths, turquoise lakes, and high mountain views. Therefore, it is a complete Everest trekking experience.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
• An 18-day Everest Cho La Pass Trek package
• A guided trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes
• A high-pass adventure over Cho La Pass
• A hike to Kala Patthar for Everest views
• A hike to Gokyo Ri for panoramic Himalayan views
• A scenic Lukla flight
• A visit to Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery
• A route through Sagarmatha National Park
• A challenging alternative to the standard Everest Base Camp Trek
• Views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam
• A tea house trekking experience in the Khumbu region
• A package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Everest Cho La Pass Trek Highlights
• Reach Everest Base Camp at around 5,364m
• Hike to Kala Patthar for close Everest views
• Cross Cho La Pass at around 5,420m
• Visit the turquoise Gokyo Lakes
• Hike to Gokyo Ri at 5,357m
• Enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam
• Walk near the Khumbu Glacier and Ngozumpa Glacier area
• Explore Namche Bazaar, the main Sherpa town of Khumbu
• Visit Tengboche Monastery
• Cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River
• Experience Sherpa culture, mani walls, prayer flags, and monasteries
• Stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges
• Complete one of the best high-altitude treks in the Everest region
Best Time for Everest Cho La Pass Trek
The best time for the Everest Cho La Pass Trek is spring and autumn.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the best seasons. The weather is warmer than winter. Also, Everest Base Camp becomes active during climbing season.
Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent season. After the monsoon, the sky is usually clearer. Therefore, mountain views are often sharp and beautiful.
Winter is possible for experienced trekkers. However, Cho La Pass can be icy and snowy. So, winter trekking needs strong preparation and proper gear.
Monsoon is less recommended. Rain, clouds, flight delays, and poor visibility can affect the trek.
Because Cho La Pass is a high and exposed pass, weather is very important. Your guide may change the plan for safety.
Everest Cho La Pass Trek Difficulty
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek is a challenging trek. It is harder than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek.
You do not need climbing skills. However, you must be ready for high altitude, cold weather, long walking days, glacier moraine, rocky trails, and the Cho La Pass crossing.
Cho La Pass is commonly listed at around 5,420m. It connects the Everest Base Camp side with the Gokyo Valley side. Trekking sources describe it as a demanding high-altitude crossing with steep, rocky, icy, and glacial sections.
This trek includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. These days help your body adjust before Everest Base Camp and Cho La Pass.
This trek is best for fit trekkers with previous hiking experience. Still, determined beginners can do it with training, good pacing, and guide support.
Everest Cho La Pass Trek Permits
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek route lies inside the Khumbu region and Sagarmatha National Park. So, trekkers need the required permits.
For this trek, travelers normally need:
• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Trek Card / Local Entry Permit
• TIMS Card as per current trekking rules
• Licensed trekking guide
Nepal Tourism Board lists the Sagarmatha National Park entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners, NRs. 1,500 for SAARC nationals, and NRs. 100 for Nepali visitors. Children below 10 years are free.
The official Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality page lists the Trek-Card fee as NRs. 2,000 for SAARC countries and China and NRs. 3,000 for other countries. It also lists Lukla Tourist Information Centers as the service office.
Nepal Tourism Board states that trekkers should get a TIMS Card before trekking. It also lists Everest region routes such as Everest Basecamp Trek and Gokyo Trek under guide and agency-issued TIMS requirements.
Your trekking agency should arrange permits, flights, guide, accommodation, and full trek support.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 02: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
• Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
• Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
• Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
• Day 06: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
• Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
• Day 08: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
• Day 09: Trek to Gorak Shep and Visit Everest Base Camp
• Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Dzongla
• Day 11: Cross Cho La Pass and Trek to Thagnak
• Day 12: Trek from Thagnak to Gokyo
• Day 13: Hike to Gokyo Ri and Explore Gokyo Lakes
• Day 14: Trek from Gokyo to Dole
• Day 15: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar
• Day 16: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
• Day 17: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
• Day 18: Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you. Then, you will transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
You can rest after your flight. In the evening, your guide will give a short trek briefing.
The briefing covers Lukla flights, permits, route, gear, weather, altitude safety, Cho La Pass crossing, and daily walking plan.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
Early in the morning, you will fly to Lukla. During peak season, flights may operate from Manthali / Ramechhap. Your agency will confirm the final plan.
After landing in Lukla, you will meet the trekking crew. Then, the trek begins with an easy walk toward Phakding.
The trail passes villages, prayer wheels, mani walls, and green hills. This first walking day is short. Therefore, it helps you adjust slowly.
• Altitude: Lukla – approx. 2,840m / 9,318ft; Phakding – approx. 2,610m / 8,563ft
• Flight/Trek Time: Flight approx. 30–35 minutes; trek approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
After breakfast, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross suspension bridges and pass small villages.
The route goes through Monjo and Jorsale. Then, you will enter Sagarmatha National Park after permit checking.
After lunch, the trail climbs toward Namche Bazaar. On a clear day, you may see Everest in the distance.
Namche Bazaar is the main Sherpa town of the Khumbu region. It has lodges, shops, cafés, bakeries, and mountain views.
• Altitude: Namche Bazaar – approx. 3,440m / 11,286ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Today is an acclimatization day. You will stay in Namche, but you will also take a short hike.
You may hike to Everest View Hotel, Syangboche, Khumjung, or Khunde. These places offer views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other peaks.
After the hike, you will return to Namche. Then, you can rest and explore the market.
• Altitude: Namche Bazaar – approx. 3,440m / 11,286ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 3–4 hours light hike
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
After breakfast, the trail leaves Namche and follows a scenic hillside route. This section gives beautiful views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.
The trail descends toward Phunki Tenga. Then, it climbs through pine and rhododendron forests to Tengboche.
Tengboche is famous for its monastery. It is one of the most important spiritual sites in the Khumbu region. Also, the view of Ama Dablam from this area is very beautiful.
• Altitude: Tengboche – approx. 3,860m / 12,664ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 06: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
Today, you will trek from Tengboche to Dingboche. First, the trail descends through forest. Then, it crosses the Imja Khola.
You will pass Deboche and Pangboche. After that, the landscape becomes more open and dry.
Dingboche is a beautiful high-altitude village. It is surrounded by stone walls, fields, and mountain views.
You can see Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Island Peak, and other peaks from this area.
• Altitude: Dingboche – approx. 4,410m / 14,469ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Today is another acclimatization day. This day is important because the route has reached above 4,000 meters.
You may hike to Nangkartshang Hill or a nearby viewpoint. This hike gives views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Lhotse, Island Peak, and the Imja Valley.
After the hike, you will return to Dingboche. Then, you can rest and prepare for the higher route.
• Altitude: Dingboche – approx. 4,410m / 14,469ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 3–5 hours light hike
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
After breakfast, the trail climbs slowly above Dingboche. You will walk through open alpine land with views of the Pheriche Valley.
The route passes Thukla. Then, it climbs to the memorial area for climbers who lost their lives in the Everest region.
After the memorial area, the trail continues to Lobuche. Lobuche is a small high-altitude settlement near the Khumbu Glacier.
• Altitude: Lobuche – approx. 4,910m / 16,109ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Trek to Gorak Shep and Visit Everest Base Camp
Today is one of the biggest days of the trek. You will start early and follow the rocky trail toward Gorak Shep.
After reaching Gorak Shep, you will take a short rest. Then, you will hike toward Everest Base Camp.
The trail follows the Khumbu Glacier moraine. So, you must walk carefully on rocky ground.
At Everest Base Camp, you can enjoy the feeling of standing below the world’s highest mountain. After photos and rest, you will return to Gorak Shep for the night.
• Altitude: Gorak Shep – approx. 5,164m / 16,942ft; Everest Base Camp – approx. 5,364m / 17,598ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 7–8 hours total
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Dzongla
Early in the morning, you will hike to Kala Patthar. This is one of the best viewpoints for Mount Everest.
From Kala Patthar, you can see Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, Lingtren, and other peaks. The sunrise view can be very powerful on a clear morning.
After the hike, you will return to Gorak Shep for breakfast. Then, you will trek down toward Lobuche and continue to Dzongla.
Dzongla is a small settlement below the Cho La Pass route. This is the main overnight stop before crossing the pass.
• Altitude: Kala Patthar – approx. 5,545m / 18,192ft; Dzongla – approx. 4,830m / 15,846ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 7–8 hours total
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Cross Cho La Pass and Trek to Thagnak
Today is the most adventurous day of the trek. You will start early and climb toward Cho La Pass.
The trail can include rocky paths, steep sections, snow, ice, and glacier moraine. Therefore, you must follow your guide’s instructions carefully.
From the top of Cho La Pass, you can enjoy dramatic mountain and glacier views. After the pass, you will descend carefully toward Thagnak.
This day is long and challenging. However, it is also one of the most rewarding parts of the Everest Cho La Pass Trek.
• Altitude: Cho La Pass – approx. 5,420m / 17,782ft; Thagnak – approx. 4,700m / 15,420ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 7–9 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Trek from Thagnak to Gokyo
After breakfast, you will trek from Thagnak to Gokyo. The trail crosses rocky terrain and glacial sections near the Ngozumpa Glacier area.
You should walk carefully because some parts can be uneven. However, the views are very special.
After crossing the glacier area, you will reach Gokyo village. Gokyo sits beside a beautiful turquoise lake. It is one of the most peaceful places in the Everest region.
• Altitude: Gokyo – approx. 4,790m / 15,715ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Hike to Gokyo Ri and Explore Gokyo Lakes
Early in the morning, you will hike to Gokyo Ri. This is the best viewpoint in the Gokyo Valley.
From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other peaks. Nepal Tourism Board says the Gokyo viewpoint offers a panorama from Cho Oyu and Everest to Lhotse and Makalu.
After the hike, you will return to Gokyo for breakfast. Later, you can explore the lake area.
The Gokyo Lakes are sacred and beautiful. Their emerald color is the main reason this route is loved by trekkers.
• Altitude: Gokyo Ri – 5,357m / 17,575ft; Gokyo – approx. 4,790m / 15,715ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours for Gokyo Ri hike; extra time for lake exploration
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Trek from Gokyo to Dole
After breakfast, you will leave Gokyo and begin the return journey. The trail descends through the same beautiful valley.
You will pass lakes, rocky paths, yak pastures, and small settlements. Since you are descending, breathing usually feels easier.
After reaching Dole, you can rest at the lodge. This day gives one more chance to enjoy the peaceful Gokyo Valley.
• Altitude: Dole – approx. 4,200m / 13,780ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar
Today, you will descend from Dole toward Phortse Tenga. Then, you will climb and follow the trail back toward Mong La and Kyangjuma.
The route gives final views of the Everest region peaks. Also, the landscape becomes greener as you descend.
After reaching Namche Bazaar, you can rest at the lodge. You may also enjoy a bakery, café, or hot shower if available.
• Altitude: Namche Bazaar – approx. 3,440m / 11,286ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Today is the final walking day of the trek. You will descend from Namche to the Dudh Koshi River valley.
The trail passes Jorsale, Monjo, Phakding, and several small villages. You will cross suspension bridges and follow familiar paths back to Lukla.
After reaching Lukla, you can rest and celebrate the successful completion of your Everest Cho La Pass Trek.
• Altitude: Lukla – approx. 2,840m / 9,318ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 17: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
Early in the morning, you will fly from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali. This depends on the flight operation.
If the flight lands in Manthali, you will drive back to Kathmandu. After arrival, you will transfer to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free. You can rest, shop, or enjoy a short walk around Kathmandu.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Flight/Drive Time: Flight approx. 30–35 minutes; Manthali drive may take approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 18: Final Departure
our 18 Days Everest Cho La Pass Trek ends today. Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.
You can also extend your stay in Nepal. Popular options include Kathmandu sightseeing, Chitwan jungle safari, Pokhara tour, Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Bhutan tour, or Tibet tour.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Not Included
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
• Airport arrival and departure transfer
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
• Tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
• Breakfast in Kathmandu
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
• Licensed trekking guide
• Trekking staff support as per group size
• Porter support as per package policy
• Sagarmatha National Park permit assistance
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Trek Card assistance
• TIMS Card assistance as per current rules
• Kathmandu / Manthali to Lukla flight assistance
• Lukla to Kathmandu / Manthali flight assistance
• Ground transfer if flights operate from Manthali
• Basic first aid support
• High-altitude safety guidance
• Cho La Pass route support
• Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
• Government taxes and official service charges as per package policy
Cost Excludes
• International airfare
• Nepal visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking equipment
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu unless mentioned
• Drinks, snacks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal expenses during trek
• Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff
• Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, flight delay, or weather condition
• Extra cost caused by Lukla flight delay, cancellation, rerouting, or helicopter upgrade
• Additional cost caused by snow, landslide, political strike, road blockage, or natural events
• Emergency rescue, medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, or insurance claim cost
• Any cost caused by itinerary change due to altitude sickness, pass closure, or weather
• Any cost not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
FAQ
Everest Cho La Pass Trek
Is Everest Cho La Pass Trek good for beginners?
This trek is best for experienced hikers. Fit beginners can do it with strong preparation. However, Cho La Pass makes this trek harder than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek.
How many days is this Everest Cho La Pass Trek package?
This is an 18-day Everest Cho La Pass Trek package. It includes arrival, Lukla flights, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Cho La Pass, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and final departure.
How high is Cho La Pass?
Cho La Pass is commonly listed at around 5,420m / 17,782ft. It links the Everest Base Camp route with the Gokyo Valley route.
How high is Everest Base Camp?
Everest Base Camp is around 5,364m / 17,598ft. It is one of the main goals of this trek.
How high is Gokyo Ri?
Gokyo Ri is 5,357m / 17,575ft. Nepal Tourism Board lists this viewpoint as a popular place for wide views above Gokyo.
What is the best time for Everest Cho La Pass Trek?
The best time is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These seasons usually offer better weather and clearer mountain views.
What mountains can I see during the trek?
You can see Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Thamserku, Kangtega, and other peaks of the Khumbu region.
Is Everest Cho La Pass Trek difficult?
Yes, it is challenging. The trail includes high altitude, cold weather, long walking days, rocky sections, glacier moraine, and the Cho La Pass crossing.
Do I need permits for Everest Cho La Pass Trek?
Yes. You need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Trek Card, and TIMS Card as per current rules.
Do I need a guide for Cho La Pass Trek?
Yes. A licensed guide is recommended and required under current guide/TIMS rules for listed trekking routes. A guide is also very important for Cho La Pass safety.
What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation during the trek is in local tea houses and mountain lodges. In Kathmandu, accommodation is arranged in a hotel.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. It should cover trekking above 5,000 meters, medical care, trip delay, and helicopter evacuation.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this trek as a private or group joining package.
Can I book a private Everest Cho La Pass Trek?
Yes. This trek can be arranged as a private guided trek. It can be customized based on your date, budget, fitness level, and group size.
Can I customize this 18-day itinerary?
Yes. You can add extra acclimatization days, add Renjo La Pass, add Everest Three Passes, add helicopter return, or make the trek slower for better comfort.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|
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Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.