Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

July 3, 2018

What is included in the article?

⇒ Trip Introduction

⇒ Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Highlights

⇒ Flying schedule for an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

⇒ Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Price:

⇒ The stops you will make during the EBC Helicopter tour

⇒ Type of aircraft for Everest base camp helicopter flight

⇒ The best times to take the Everest base camp Heli tour in Nepal

⇒ The duration of the Everest Base Camp Heli tour:

⇒ The sights and attractions you can expect to see while flying around the Everest region

⇒ Safety and weather considerations while Flying around Everest base camp

⇒ How long does Helicopter take from Kathmandu -Everest base camp and Kathmandu?

⇒ What to bring with you on the EBC Tour

⇒ All you need to know about the Everest base camp helicopter tour in Nepal

Trip Introduction

An Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a thrilling and memorable experience for adventure seekers who wish to witness the magnificence of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan region. The tour typically takes around four hours, and it is a great alternative for those who do not have the time or ability to trek to the base camp.

The tour usually starts early in the morning from Kathmandu or Lukla. As the helicopter takes off, you’ll be treated to breathtaking aerial views of the Kathmandu valley and the surrounding hills. As the helicopter ascends, the view becomes even more spectacular as you’ll witness the majestic Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and many more.

After flying over stunning landscapes and remote villages, the helicopter will land at Kalapathar Hill Station, which is situated at an altitude of 5,380 meters. You’ll have approximately 10-15 minutes to explore the area and take pictures before boarding the helicopter again.

The next stop is usually at the Syangboche airport, which is located at an altitude of 3,780 meters. Here, you can enjoy a hot breakfast while admiring the breathtaking views of Mount Everest and other snow-capped peaks.

After breakfast, the helicopter will take you to the Tengboche Monastery, which is located at an altitude of 3,867 meters. The monastery is one of the oldest and most revered in the region and provides an opportunity to learn about the local culture and customs.

Finally, the helicopter will return to Kathmandu, completing the once-in-a-lifetime experience of an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour. The tour may vary depending on the operator and the itinerary, but it typically offers a unique and unforgettable perspective of the Himalayan region.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Highlights

An Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range and the surrounding landscapes. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

• Aerial View of the Himalayas: The helicopter tour provides an awe-inspiring view of the Himalayas, including the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. You’ll witness the massive snow-capped peaks of Lhotse, Nuptse, and many more from the comfort of the helicopter.
• Everest Base Camp: The tour takes you to the base camp of Mount Everest, located at an altitude of 5,380 meters. You’ll have the opportunity to step out of the helicopter and take in the stunning views of the Khumbu Icefall, a spectacular frozen river of ice and snow.
• Syangboche Airport: The tour includes a stop at Syangboche Airport, located at an altitude of 3,780 meters. Here, you can enjoy a hot breakfast while soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas.
• Tengboche Monastery: The tour also takes you to the Tengboche Monastery, which is located at an altitude of 3,867 meters. The monastery is a significant landmark in the region and offers insight into the rich cultural heritage of the local Sherpa community.
• Time-Saving: A helicopter tour is an excellent option for those who want to experience the thrill of the Everest Base Camp but have time constraints or physical limitations. The tour can be completed in around four hours, which is much quicker than the traditional trekking route, which takes around 12 days.

In conclusion, an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range and the surrounding landscapes. It is an excellent option for those who want to witness the magnificence of Mount Everest without the physical exertion of a trek.

Flying schedule for an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

The flying schedule for an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour typically involves the following stops:

• Kathmandu to Lukla: The tour usually begins early in the morning with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is the gateway to the Everest region. The flight takes around 45 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Himalayas.
• Lukla to Kalapatthar Hill Landing: From Lukla, the helicopter will fly towards the Everest Base Camp region and land at Kalapatthar Hill. This hill is a popular vantage point and offers an excellent view of Mount Everest and other peaks in the region. You’ll have approximately 10-15 minutes to explore the area and take pictures.
• Syangboche for Breakfast: After the Kalapatthar Hill landing, the helicopter will fly to Syangboche, where you’ll enjoy a hot breakfast at a local lodge. Syangboche is a beautiful village situated at an altitude of 3,780 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Lukla: After breakfast, the helicopter will fly back to Lukla, where you’ll have some free time to explore the town and its surroundings.
• Lukla to Kathmandu: The final leg of the tour involves a flight back to Kathmandu, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or a designated location.

The entire tour usually takes around 4-5 hours, but the duration may vary depending on the weather conditions and the operator’s itinerary. Overall, an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a fantastic way to witness the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Price:

The cost of a helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp can vary depending on the tour operator, the length of the tour, and the specific services included in the package.

However, to give you a rough idea, the price of a standard helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp typically ranges from around $950 to $1200 USD per person. This usually includes round-trip helicopter transportation from Kathmandu or Lukla, a stop at Kala Patthar hill station for photo opportunities, and sometimes a short landing at a nearby mountain lodge or village for a tea break.

It’s important to note that prices can vary widely depending on the tour operator and the specific services included, and some operators may offer more luxurious and customizable packages at higher prices. Additionally, weather conditions and availability can also impact the price and availability of helicopter tours to Everest Base Camp.

The stops you will make during the EBC Helicopter tour

The number and duration of stops during an Everest Base Camp (EBC) Heli tour can vary depending on the tour operator and package you choose. However, here are some of the most common stops you can expect during an EBC Heli tour:

Kathmandu Airport: The tour will typically begin and end at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you’ll meet your tour guide and board the helicopter.

Lukla Airport: The first stop on the EBC Heli tour is often Lukla Airport, which is the gateway to the Everest region. You’ll land at this small airport, which is located at an elevation of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet), and take a brief break before continuing the flight.

Kala Patthar: Many EBC Heli tours include a stop at Kala Patthar, a nearby viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. You’ll land at a helipad near Kala Patthar and have the opportunity to take in the scenery and capture some photos.

Syangboche: Some EBC Heli tours also include a stop at Syangboche, which is a small village located at an elevation of 3,780 meters (12,402 feet). You can enjoy a meal or refreshments at one of the local restaurants or explore the village.

The stops on a Kalapathar(Near by base camp) tour can vary depending on the tour operator and package you choose, and the order of the stops may change depending on weather conditions and other factors. Be sure to check with your tour operator to confirm the itinerary and schedule for your specific tour.

Type of aircraft for Everest base camp helicopter flight

The type of aircraft used for Everest Base Camp helicopter flights varies depending on the tour operator, but typically, the most common helicopters used are the AS350 B3e Ecureuil (also known as AStar) and the Bell 407. These helicopters are specifically designed for high-altitude flying in mountainous terrain and are widely used for search and rescue operations, as well as for tourism activities in the Everest region.

The AS350 B3e Ecureuil (AStar) is a single-engine helicopter that can carry up to six passengers and a pilot. It’s known for its excellent performance in high-altitude conditions and its ability to fly in narrow valleys and over glaciers.

The Bell 407 is another popular helicopter used for Everest Base Camp tours. It’s a single-engine helicopter that can carry up to six passengers and a pilot. The Bell 407 is known for its smooth ride and excellent maneuverability in mountainous terrain.

Both the AS350 B3e Ecureuil and Bell 407 helicopters are equipped with modern avionics, including GPS and autopilot, and feature large windows that provide excellent visibility for passengers. The helicopters used for Everest Base Camp tours are maintained to the highest safety standards, and the pilots are experienced in flying in challenging Himalayan conditions.

The best times to take the Everest base camp Heli tour in Nepal

The best time to take the Everest Base Camp Heli tour in Nepal is during the months of October and November, or March and April. These months offer the clearest skies and the best weather for helicopter flights.

During October and November, the monsoon season has ended and the skies are usually clear, providing excellent visibility for the mountain views. March and April are also great times for the Heli tour, as the weather is dry and stable, and the spring season brings blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, making for stunning scenery.

However, it’s important to note that weather conditions can be unpredictable in the mountains, and flights can be affected by high winds and cloudy conditions. So, it’s always recommended to check the weather forecast and consult with your tour operator before booking the tour.

The duration of the Everest Base Camp Heli tour:

The duration of the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Heli tour in Nepal depends on the specific itinerary and tour operator but typically ranges from 3 to 5 hours.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during a typical EBC Heli tour:

• Pre-flight briefing: The tour operator will provide a pre-flight briefing to ensure your safety and to familiarize you with the helicopter, flight plan, and what to expect during the tour.
• Helicopter flight: The helicopter flight typically takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the specific tour itinerary. During the flight, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, as you fly over glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and remote mountain villages.
• Landing at EBC: The helicopter will land at the Everest Base Camp or nearby Kala Patthar viewpoint, where you’ll have the opportunity to step out and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Photo opportunity: You’ll have plenty of time to take photos and capture the stunning scenery around you.
• Return flight: After spending some time at EBC, you’ll board the helicopter for the return flight to Kathmandu. The return flight usually takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the itinerary.
• Transfer back to your hotel: Once you’ve landed back in Kathmandu, the tour operator will transfer you back to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible experience you just had.

Overall, the EBC Heli tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique perspective on the majestic Himalayan range.

The sights and attractions you can expect to see while flying around the Everest region

Flying around the Everest region on a helicopter tour offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayan range, including some of the world’s highest peaks. Here are some of the sights and attractions you can expect to see on an Everest helicopter tour:

• Mount Everest: The main highlight of the tour is, of course, the magnificent Mount Everest, which towers over the surrounding peaks at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet). You’ll have an unforgettable view of the world’s highest mountain from the helicopter, and you may even get the chance to see climbers making their way up the peak.
• Khumbu Glacier: The Khumbu Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas and stretches for over 17 kilometers (10 miles). You’ll be able to see the vast expanse of ice and snow from above, with crevasses and icefalls visible along the way.
• Everest Base Camp: The helicopter will land at Everest Base Camp, giving you the opportunity to explore the campsite and take in the incredible views of the surrounding peaks.
• Kala Patthar: Kala Patthar is a nearby viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. You may stop here to take in the scenery and capture some photos.
• Sherpa villages Namche Bazaar: As you fly over the Everest region, you’ll also get a glimpse of the local Sherpa villages, nestled in the mountain valleys. These villages are home to the famous Sherpa people, who are known for their mountaineering skills and unique culture.

Overall, the Everest helicopter tour offers an incredible opportunity to see some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet, including the world’s highest peak, glaciers, and traditional Sherpa villages.

Safety and weather considerations while Flying around Everest base camp

Flying around Everest Base Camp (EBC) on a helicopter tour is generally a safe and well-managed experience, but it’s important to be aware of potential safety and weather considerations. Here are some of the key factors to consider:

Weather: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable and can change rapidly, with high winds, clouds, and snowstorms common in the region. It’s important to check the weather forecast before booking your tour and to be prepared for potential changes to the itinerary due to weather conditions. Tour operators will generally not fly in unsafe weather conditions, so you may need to be flexible with your plans.

Altitude: The altitude in the Everest region is extremely high, and the air is thin. This can cause altitude sickness, which can be dangerous if not properly managed. It’s important to acclimatize properly before the tour and to listen to your body during the flight. Tour operators will typically provide oxygen on the helicopter to help with acclimatization.

Safety equipment: Make sure the tour operator provides appropriate safety equipment, including a life jacket and seat belts.

Experienced pilot: Choose a tour operator with experienced pilots who are familiar with the region and can handle any unexpected weather or terrain conditions.

Medical conditions: Inform the tour operator of any medical conditions you have that may affect your ability to fly, such as heart or lung problems.

Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation in case of an emergency.

Overall, a helicopter tour around Everest Base Camp can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety and be prepared for potential weather and altitude-related considerations.

How long does Helicopter take from Kathmandu -Everest base camp and Kathmandu?

The helicopter journey from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp and back can vary in duration depending on a number of factors such as weather conditions, route taken, and the type of helicopter used.

Generally, a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, including a brief stop at Lukla for refueling. The return journey from Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu takes around the same time.

However, it’s important to note that the weather conditions in the Himalayan region can be unpredictable, particularly during the monsoon and winter seasons, which can lead to flight delays or cancellations. So, it’s advisable to plan for some buffer time in case of such eventualities.

• Your hotel to Kathmandu Airport – 25 Minutes
• Kathmandu Airport to Lukla- 50 Minute flight
• Fuel refilling time at Lukla15 to 20 minutes
• Lukla to Kalapather landing spot- 20 Minute
• Landing time approximately at Kalapather is about 5 minute
• Kalapathar to Syangboche- 5 to 10 minute
• Breakfast break at Syangboche – 25 minute
• Syangboche to Kathmandu-  1 hour and 10 minutes about.

What to bring with you on the EBC Tour:

The items you should bring with you on a tour depending on various factors such as the location, duration, and purpose of the tour. However, here are some general items that you may want to consider bringing:

• Appropriate clothing: Pack clothes that are appropriate for the weather and the activities you’ll be doing on the tour. If you’re going to a cold climate, bring warm clothes and a coat. If you’ll be hiking or doing other outdoor activities, bring appropriate footwear and comfortable clothing.
• Personal hygiene items: Bring your toiletries, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and other personal hygiene items.
• Medications: If you take any medications, make sure to bring enough for the duration of the trip, plus a few extra days.
• First aid kit: It’s always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need.
• Electronics and chargers: Bring any electronic devices you’ll need, like a phone, camera, or laptop, as well as their chargers.
• Snacks and water: Bring some snacks and a water bottle to keep you hydrated and energized during the tour.
• Maps and guidebooks: If you’re touring a new place, bring maps and guidebooks to help you navigate and plan your activities.
• Money and identification: Don’t forget to bring your ID, passport (if traveling internationally), credit/debit cards, and cash.
• Travel pillow and blanket: If you’re going on a long tour or flight, a travel pillow and blanket can make the journey more comfortable.
• Backpack or tote bag: Bring a small backpack or tote bag to carry your items during the tour, including your water bottle, snacks, and guidebook.

All you need to know about the Everest base camp helicopter tour in Nepal

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a popular and convenient way to experience the majestic beauty of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayas in a short time. Here’s what you need to know about this tour:

• Tour duration: The tour typically takes around 4-5 hours, including the time spent on the ground at the base camp.
• Starting point: The tour usually starts from Kathmandu or Lukla, depending on the tour operator.
• Helicopter ride: The tour includes a scenic helicopter ride to the base camp, where you’ll see stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other peaks.
• Landing at the base camp: The helicopter will land at the Everest base camp or Kala Patthar, a scenic viewpoint near the base camp. You’ll have time to explore the area and take photos.
• Altitude sickness: As you will be landing at an altitude of over 5,000 meters, there is a risk of altitude sickness. It’s essential to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and follow the advice of your  guide.
• Physical fitness: You don’t need to be physically fit to take the helicopter tour, but it’s essential to consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect your ability to fly at high altitudes.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent, and flights can be canceled due to poor weather conditions. It’s best to schedule the tour during the best weather season (March to May and September to November) to avoid any weather-related delays.
• Cost: The cost of the tour can vary depending on the tour operator and the length of the tour. The cost usually includes helicopter charter, permits, and airport transfers.
• Safety: It’s essential to choose a reputable tour operator with experienced pilots and well-maintained helicopters to ensure your safety during the tour.

The Affordable Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is an incredible experience that offers a unique perspective of the world’s highest mountain. It’s a must-do activity for anyone visiting Nepal, especially if you have limited time or physical limitations that prevent you from trekking to the base camp.