The Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour is the shortest and easiest way to visit Everest Region. You can enjoy the aerial view of the Great Himalayas and iconic peaks including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu while soaring above in the sky. This one-day tour takes you to the vicinity of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. You will observe diverse landscapes, gorgeous glaciers, and magnificent mountains. The tour is ideal for those seeking a quick, unforgettable way to experience the majesty of the Himalayas without the physical demands of trekking. With expert pilots and well-maintained helicopters, safety and comfort are prioritized throughout the journey.
Why it’s an ideal option for those short on time or unable to trek?
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour is an excellent opportunity for travelers who cannot go for the classic trekking route which takes around 15 days. With this one-day tour, you can experience the thrill of standing on the lap of Mt. Everest. The great thing about this tour is that anyone can do it regardless of age and physical limitations.
The allure of Mount Everest and the Himalayan range from the skies
The Everest Helicopter tour starts from Kathmandu Airport and takes you to the Eastern Himalayas of Nepal. While flying towards Mount Everest, you can observe the mesmerizing vistas of the snow-capped peaks around Kathmandu. The helicopter flies over Kalapatthar, Everest Base Camp, and Khumbu Glacier. You can enjoy the surreal aerial views of Mount Everest and the Himalayan range.
Why Choose an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a great choice for those who want to experience the thrill of visiting the world’s highest mountain Everest.
Time efficiency compared to trekking:
While classic Everest Base Camp trekking can take around 15 days to complete, the helicopter tour takes just about an hour. It is efficient and less time-consuming for busy travelers.
Access for all fitness levels
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is not everyone’s cup of tea. It requires great stamina and physical and mental strength. However, the Helicopter tour is accessible for all physical and mental fitness levels.
Stunning aerial views of the Himalayas
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour offers mesmerizing aerial views of the Himalayas. As the helicopter flies from Kathmandu to the Everest Region, you can enjoy views of Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang regions.
Unique experience
The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour provides the unique experience of landing at Everest Base Camp and nearby locations depending on your itinerary. Landing at the base of Everest gives you a sense of joy and thrill of standing in the proximity of the world’s highest mountain.
Types of Helicopter Tours Available
The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour allows you to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the World’s tallest peak, glaciers, and breathtaking scenery. At Nepal Trekking Routes, we take pride in offering travelers to explore the spectacular journey through our Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour.
Private vs Group tours
Private helicopter tour:
A private helicopter tour is tailored for those who cherish privacy. It is personalized and curated for you and your chosen companion. Your intimate journey is customized according to your preference including unhurried exploration and landing. Here are some benefits of private tours:
Tailored Journey: The journey molds around your wishes. You can have a longer halt at a certain viewpoint or a specific angle for a perfect shot.
Intimate moments: Every moment becomes intimate with you and your companion in the cabin. You can have silent reflection, personal celebration, and contemplation.
Unobstructed Views: You do not have to accommodate the preferences of large groups. You can have the best spots and unobstructed views throughout the journey.
Group helicopter tour:
A group helicopter tour is a collective experience. It offers individuals, including solo travelers or small groups, the opportunity to enjoy a group tour. This group journey is cost-effective and offers a chance to share the awe of Everest’s vistas with fellow travelers. Here are some benefits of group tour:
Collective Gasp: There is a shared moment of excitement as you get a glimpse of peaks with each turn and ascent. The collective gasps and the simultaneous clicks of cameras add to the communal joy of discovery.
Diverse Company: Every co-passenger has their own stories and experiences. As you travel together, you will have the memories of Everest as well as share stories from around the world.
Budget-friendly Exploration: A group tour involves sharing the cost while enjoying the grandeur of Everest without compromising on the wonder.
The choice between private and group helicopter tours to Everest Base Camp depends on personal preferences, budget considerations, and the kind of experience one seeks.
With or without Landing:
Everest Helicopter Tour with Landing
The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with landing is a perfect way to explore and enjoy a close-up view of Mount Everest. The tour offers an aerial view of mighty mountains in the Everest region in a very short period. The helicopter can overfly 5 pax but cannot land in the Everest Base Camp or Kalapatthar.
Landing at Kalapatthar: We can arrange the helicopter tour for 2 people from Pheriche to land at Kalpatthar due to safety reasons. The helicopter is allowed to land at Kalapatthar only for 10 minutes. From Kalpatthar, you can have an up-close view of Mount Everest and take panoramic shots of the majestic Mount Everest.
Landing at Everest View Hotel: Another option for the helicopter tour is to land at the Everest View Hotel. You can stay for about 1 hour in the hotel and explore the place. You can have breakfast while enjoying the spectacular view of the mountains.
Without Landing
An Everest helicopter tour without landing offers a thrilling experience of flying over the majestic Himalayan range. You will have a close-up view of Mount Everest without the need to land at high altitudes. During this tour, the helicopter flies over famous landmarks like Everest Base Camp, the Khumbu glacier, and iconic peaks such as Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu.
After flying over, the helicopter will land at Everest View Hotel for a break. You can explore and enjoy a meal in the hotel with an outstanding view of the Himalayas.
This option is ideal for those on short vacations. The flight typically lasts for 2-4 hours. It provides a seamless, panoramic view of the Everest region from the comfort of a helicopter. You will have a memorable and scenic adventure.
Best Time to Take an Everest Helicopter Tour
The best seasons to take an Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). These seasons have advantages and favorable weather conditions for a memorable aerial adventure through the breathtaking Himalayan landscape.
Seasonal considerations
For the Everest helicopter tour, both autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are ideal seasons. Each season has unique advantages.
Spring (March-May): Spring offers mild temperatures and colorful landscapes. The rhododendron blossoms add vibrant color to the forests. The views are clear and picturesque. However, there may be occasional clouds towards the end of spring.
Summer (June-August): We have summer monsoon in Nepal, so it rains frequently during this time of the year. The temperature is warm but the weather is very unpredictable. For a helicopter tour, one must be patient for a perfect day with nice weather as we do not take risks during bad weather.
Autumn (September-November): Autumn has clear skies and crisp air. The visibility of Everest and surrounding peaks is crystal clear. This season is the best for helicopter tours. The post-monsoon atmosphere is perfect for panoramic vistas.
Winter (December-February): In winter, the view is amazing and there may be snowfall in Everest region. It is not a recommended season for helicopter tour because of unpredictable weather. If the weather conditions are favorable, you can take a helicopter tour with a stunning aerial view of the snowfall over the mountains.
Weather Factors Impacting Helicopter Flights
- Weather plays an important role in determining the safety and success of helicopter flights in the mountainous region.
- Clear skies and good visibility are necessary for safe navigation. Cloud, fog, and mist can hinder the pilot’s view of the terrain.
- Windy weather can cause turbulence which may be dangerous for helicopter flights in higher altitudes.
- Rain or Snowfall reduces visibility and can make the landing risky on uneven terrain.
- Temperature fluctuations can affect the helicopter’s performance and ability to ascend or descend safely.
Best months for clear views and flight safety
October is considered the best month for an Everest helicopter tour. It offers clear views and flight safety. The post-monsoon skies are clear during October, with optimum visibility of Everest and surrounding peaks. The weather is stable with minimal rain, suitable for flying. Temperatures are cool and comfortable, with mild wind conditions. There is no risk of turbulence or flight delays. With the perfect balance of visibility and safety, this month is reliable for Helicopter tours in the Everest region.
Tour Itinerary Overview
Start in Kathmandu:
The Everest Base camp helicopter tour starts from Kathmandu. A representative from Nepal Trekking Routes will pick you up and transfer you to the domestic section of Tribhuvan International Airport. After ensuring all your documents are in order, you will take your scheduled Helicopter flight to Everest Base Camp.
The Everest Base Camp trek starts at 7 a.m. and heads towards the Mahalangur Himalayan range. The helicopter will fly over charming Sherpa settlements.
Lukla Landing:
The helicopter will land at Lukla for refueling. It is also an acclimatization stop as you may experience altitude sickness and breathlessness.
Pheriche:
After refueling in Lukla, the helicopter will land at Pheriche with 5 people per flight. At Pheriche, the group of 5 persons has to be split because only 2 people are allowed to land at Kalapatthar due to safety reasons. However, if the tour is only overfly, then a group of 5 persons is allowed to fly.
Everest Base Camp / Kala Patthar:
The Helicopter will overfly Everest Base Camp from Lukla or Pheriche. Landing in Everest Base Camp is restricted except for emergency evacuation flights. Therefore, the helicopter will land at Kalapatthar. Only 2 persons are allowed to land at Kalapatthar, the viewpoint of Mount Everest. You can spend only 10 minutes at Kalapatthar enjoying the 360-degree panoramic view of Everest and other peaks.
Everest View Hotel:
From Kalapatthar, the helicopter takes you to the Everest View Hotel at Pheriche. It is the world’s highest-altitude hotel. You can spend about an hour having breakfast or lunch with a view of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks.
Return Journey:
After your break at Everest View Hotel, you will have a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. You will relish the aerial view of splendid vistas of the Himalayas once again. When you land at the domestic airport in Kathmandu, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
What to Expect During the Tour
Duration of the tour
The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour takes around 4-5 hours. You will take off from Kathmandu and land at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla, at an altitude of 2,846m. Then, the next stop is Pheriche (4,371m), where 5 persons are allowed to land. From Pheriche, the helicopter flies over Everest Base Camp and lands at Kalapatthar for 10 minutes. From Kalapatthar, the next stop is the Everest View Hotel in Pheriche where you are allowed to spend about an hour.
Altitude
During the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, you will land at Lukla at an altitude of 2,846m. You may be at risk of altitude sickness which is caused by ascending too rapidly. The body doesn't get enough time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in air pressure. The symptoms include headache, vomiting, nausea, breathlessness, and reduced performance and coordination. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness during Everest Helicopter Tour.
How to manage potential altitude sickness?
There are several ways to manage altitude sickness while on an Everest Helicopter tour. It is important to acclimatize properly by spending a few days at a lower altitude before ascending to higher elevations. You can have acclimatization rest in Lukla before heading to Kalapatthar at an altitude of 5,644m. Additionally, staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can prevent dehydration. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for medication.
If you experience symptoms of Altitude Sickness, it is important to take immediate action to prevent the symptoms from getting worse. Here are some steps you can take:
Inform your Guide or Pilot: If you start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness, inform your pilot or guide immediately. They will assist or advise on how to proceed.
Descend to a Lower Altitude: If your symptoms are severe, your pilot or guide may advise you to descend to a lower altitude for medical treatment. This may involve landing or returning to a lower altitude by helicopter.
Rest and Hydrate: If you have mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache or dizziness, you should take rest and hydrate. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Consider medication: If you have a history of altitude sickness, you may consider taking medication to prevent symptoms. Consult your doctor before your trip.
Seek Medical Attention: If your symptoms are severe and do not improve with rest and hydration, seek medical attention immediately. This may involve returning to Kathmandu or seeking treatment at a local medical facility.
Key landmarks you’ll see:
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour offers an aerial view of stunning Himalayan Peaks. From the vantage point of Namche Bazaar, you can enjoy the panoramic vistas of some of the world’s most magnificent peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, etc. The sight of these towering giants against the backdrop of Mount Everest is exhilarating and serves as a testament to the supreme natural beauty of the region.
Cost and Inclusions
The Everest Helicopter tour offers a luxurious and time-efficient way to experience Everest but is more costly than the traditional trek. If your budget allows, the helicopter tour can be a worthwhile investment for a swift and visually spectacular adventure.
Breakdown of costs
Nepal Trekking Routes offers the cost of Everest Helicopter tour as given below:
Private Tour
Cost: $5,000-$6,000 per Charter flight
Shared Tour
- Cost: $1,200 per person
- Group Discount (2-5 pax): $1,150 per person
- Group Discount (6-12 pax): $1,100 per person
What’s included in the package
- Private transportation from Hotel to Airport and vice versa.
- Helicopter flight to Everest Base Camp and return flight.
- Oxygen Cylinder and other Necessary things for emergency
- Service Charge
Additional Costs: $80 per person (required for airport tax, Sagarmatha National Park entry fee, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality tax and breakfast)
Packing Essentials for the Helicopter Tour
When preparing for an Everest Helicopter tour, pack light and smart for comfort and safety at high altitudes. Here is a list of essentials to bring:
Clothing:
Warm clothing: Temperatures drop during high-altitude landing, so bring a thermal base layer, and an insulated down jacket to stay warm.
Windproof/Waterproof Jacket: To protect against cold winds and unexpected weather changes
Gloves and Hat: Essential for warmth
Footwear:
Comfortable Boots or Shoes: Non-slip warm and sturdy footwear for walking on uneven surfaces during landing
Accessories:
Sunscreen, and Sunglasses: Protection from strong Himalayan sun and snow glare.
Cameras with extra batteries: For photography of aerial shots
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, even on short trips to avoid altitude sickness.
Daypack: A small backpack for your essentials.
Snacks: Light snacks like energy bars for a quick energy boost.
Safety Tips and Precautions
Before going on an Everest Helicopter tour, keep one word in mind: safety. Safety is your priority on this high-altitude adventure.
Helicopter safety measures and standards
Helicopter safety is important in high mountains like Everest. Before the flight, the pilot checks the weather to make sure it is safe to fly. The helicopter is inspected properly so that it is in perfect working condition. Passengers must wear seatbelts and listen to the pilot’s instructions during the flight such as staying seated and keeping arms inside the helicopter. Helmets or headsets are worn to protect ears from the noise and to hear the pilot. The helicopter follows a specific route for safety and the pilot is trained to handle emergencies like strong winds or sudden weather changes.
Importance of flying with experienced pilots and reputable companies
Experienced pilots know how to navigate tricky weather and fly safely at high altitudes. They also know what to do if something unexpected happens, like strong winds. Reputable companies like Nepal Trekking Routes make sure their helicopters are well-maintained and follow strict safety rules. They also give you clear instructions to keep everyone safe during the flight. With experienced pilots, you can be safe and enjoy the journey without any worries.
Managing altitude and oxygen levels
It is important to manage altitude and oxygen levels during helicopter tours. The air gets thinner as you go higher, making it harder to breathe. To help with this, helicopters have oxygen tanks onboard. Passengers can use oxygen masks if they feel lightheaded or short of breath due to altitude. This extra oxygen helps prevent altitude sickness, which can occur quickly in high altitudes. The pilots are trained to monitor your condition. They will make sure you use oxygen when needed so that you are safe and comfortable during the flight.
How to Book an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Booking an Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour is an exciting and straightforward process when you choose a reputable tour operator like Nepal Trekking Routes.
Steps to Book with Nepal Trekking Routes:
Visit the Website or Contact Directly:
Start by visiting the official Nepal Trekking Routes website or contacting them via email, WhatsApp, or phone. They are responsive and provide all necessary information about tour packages, available dates, flight timings, and prices.
Choose a Package:
Nepal Trekking Routes offers helicopter tour options that can be customized according to your preference. You can choose a quick Everest Base Camp flyover or a package that includes landing at Kalapatthar and enjoying a meal at high-altitude resorts like Hotel Everest View.
Confirm your booking:
Once you have chosen your preferred tour, you need to provide details such as the date of the tour, the number of passengers, and any specific requests. A deposit is usually required to secure the booking, with full payment due a few days before the tour.
Booking tips:
Best time to book: The best time to book is during the peak seasons including spring and autumn. Although last-minute bookings can be arranged, it is recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance to ensure availability.
Considerations for group/private tours: If you are traveling with a group, inquire about possible discounts for group bookings.
Cancellation policies:
Nepal Trekking Routes offers flexible cancellation policies. Bad weather can disrupt flights that may be delayed or canceled for safety reasons. In such cases, the company usually offers full refunds or reschedules the tour at no extra cost. For personal cancellations, make sure to check the specific terms and conditions.
Alternative Experiences to Consider
If you are planning an Everest helicopter tour, you can consider several alternative experiences that will make your adventure even more memorable. You can combine a helicopter ride with a short trek or explore helicopter tours to other destinations in Nepal. You can have a richer experience of the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
Combining Everest Helicopter Tour with short treks
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return:
One of the most popular combinations is trekking to Everest Base Camp and returning by helicopter. This option allows you to experience the iconic trek, passing through Sherpa villages, diverse landscapes, and glacial rivers followed by a scenic and convenient helicopter flight back. It is ideal for those who want to experience the trek but prefer to avoid the long strenuous journey back.
Gokyo Lakes and Renjo La Pass:
Another incredible experience is trekking to the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and crossing the Renjo La Pass, with a helicopter pickup from Gokyo. This route offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. There will be fewer crowds than the standard Everest Base Camp route.
Pikey Peak Trek with Helicopter Return:
Consider the Pikey Peak Trek for a shorter and less strenuous option. You can hike to a viewpoint well known for some of the best sunrise views of Everest. Later, you can return by helicopter for a quick and scenic exit.
Helicopter tours to other destinations in Nepal
Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour:
For those looking beyond Everest, a helicopter tour to Annapurna Base Camp offers breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and the surrounding landscapes. This is perfect for travelers wanting to see Nepal’s other iconic mountain range without the long trek.
Langtang Valley Helicopter Tour:
You can explore the remote Langtang valley by helicopter and witness its serene beauty and proximity to the Tibetan border. This tour offers familiarization of the unique Tibetan-influenced culture of the region, alongside incredible mountain views.
Muktinath Helicopter Tour:
Muktinath Helicopter Tour is a luxury tour in Nepal that takes you around a pilgrimage site of the Annapurna region. Muktinath Temple is a sacred place for all religions including Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Vaishnavs. The tour can be done within 2 hours from Pokhara and 3 hours from Kathmandu. During the flight, you will have a spectacular aerial view of the Himalayas and the beautiful landscapes of Gandaki Province. This tour is suitable for those having a very short vacation in Nepal. Nepal Trekking Routes offers a Muktinath Helicopter tour package for $799 per person.
FAQs
How high does the helicopter fly?
During the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour, the helicopter flies at altitudes ranging from 4,000m to 6,000m depending on the route and weather conditions. The highest point of the tour is a landing at Kalapatthar located at 5,644m. This tour offers stunning close-up views of Everest. Helicopters don’t fly higher than this, as the thin air at higher altitudes affects both performance and safety. The above range of altitude allows for incredible panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks while maintaining safe flight conditions.
Can you land at Everest Base Camp?
No, you cannot land exactly at Everest Base Camp. You can fly over Everest Base Camp and land only at Kalapatthar. Landing at Everest Base Camp is restricted, except for emergency evacuation. During the helicopter tour, you can have an aerial view of Everest Base Camp.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather is bad on the day of your Everest helicopter tour, safety is the top priority. Helicopter flights depend on clear skies and stable weather for visibility and safe navigation. Weather conditions such as heavy rain, fog, strong winds, or low clouds make flying unsafe. This may cause the tour to be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled.
In the event of a delay, the tour operator will wait for better weather later in the day. If conditions do not improve, the flight will be rescheduled for another day, often at no additional cost. If you cannot reschedule due to time constraints, reputable companies like Nepal Trekking Routes typically offer a full refund.
It is important to remain flexible and understand that weather in the Himalayas can change quickly. Safety always comes first and these measures ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
How many people can fit in the helicopter?
The helicopters used during the Everest Helicopter tour can accommodate 5 passengers. The maximum weight capacity of a helicopter is 450kg excluding the pilot while taking off from Kathmandu. However, the maximum weight capacity while landing depends on the altitude and air pressure of different places.
The maximum weight capacity for landing at Pheriche is 420kg and Kalapatthar is 220kg. Hence, although 5 passengers can take off in a helicopter from Kathmandu, only 2 passengers can fly in a Helicopter to Kalapatthar. So, an extra shuttle flight from Pheriche to Kalapatthar should be done.
Conclusion
The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is a perfect blend of convenience and adventure. It allows you to witness the breathtaking view of the Himalayas without the strenuous trek. This once-in-a-lifetime experience provides spectacular aerial views of iconic peaks like Mount Everest and the thrill of high-altitude flight. You can capture memorable photographs and enjoy the beautiful landscapes with every magical moment.
If you are seeking an extraordinary adventure that combines comfort with the greatness of nature, don’t hesitate to book your helicopter tour with Nepal Trekking Routes. We offer seamless planning, expert guidance, and safety ensuring a hassle-free, unforgettable Himalayan adventure. You will cherish this experience forever!
