March 24, 2023
Mount Everest is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and helicopter tours that offer a landing experience at the base camp or nearby locations have gained significant attention. As a result, numerous articles have been written on this topic, covering everything from the experience itself to its impact on the environment and local communities. These articles provide valuable insights into the various aspects of Everest landing helicopter tours, including safety concerns, ethical considerations, and the cost of the tour. They also offer tips for travelers who plan to undertake this adventure and recommendations for responsible tourism practices to ensure the sustainability of the region.
Top 15 Best Treks in Nepal
The Everest Base Camp(EBC) Landing Helicopter tour from Kathmandu typically starts with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town located in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains, including Mount Everest, and is considered one of the most thrilling flights in the world due to the airport’s challenging location on a steep hillside.
Upon arrival in Lukla, we will fueling the helicopter and board a helicopter for a scenic flight to Syangboche Everest View Hotel, located at an altitude of 3,880 meters. The hotel offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest, and is an ideal spot for taking photographs and enjoying a cup of coffee.
After a brief stop at the hotel, the helicopter will continue on to the Everest Base Camp(EBC) and Kalapathar hill, located at an altitude of 5,364 meters and 5,550 m. During the flight, you will get a bird’s eye view of the Khumbu Glacier, the icefall, and the surrounding peaks.
Upon landing at Kalapthar hill side near EBC, you will have the opportunity to explore the area and take photographs. The Base Camp of Mount Everest is the starting point for expeditions to Mount Everest, and you can expect to see tents and other equipment used by climbers.
Next, the helicopter will take you around Everest base camp , a popular viewpoint located at an altitude of 5,545 meters. While Flying over Everest base camp and Kalapthar, you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, pumori, as well as other peaks in the area.
After taking in the views from Kalapatthar, the helicopter will return to Lukla, where you can enjoy lunch before taking a return flight to Kathmandu. Overall, the Everest Base Camp(EBC) Landing Helicopter tour from Kathmandu with Safe Holiday Adventure is a great way to experience the beauty of the Himalayan mountains in a short amount of time.
The best time to go for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is during the autumn and spring seasons. Autumn, from September to November, offers clear skies and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The weather is also stable during this time, making it easier to fly in a helicopter. Spring, from March to May, is another great time to go, as the weather is mild and the skies are clear. The rhododendron forests are also in full bloom during this time, adding to the beauty of the landscape. Winter and summer are not recommended for the tour, as winter brings harsh weather conditions and the monsoon season from June to August brings heavy rain and cloud cover, which can impact visibility and the ability to fly safely.
The cost of sharing a helicopter for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is USD 995 per person. This means that the cost of the helicopter will be divided among all the passengers on the helicopter. Sharing a helicopter can be a cost-effective option for those who are traveling on a budget or are traveling solo.
On the other hand, the cost of hiring a private helicopter for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is USD 3700. This option is more expensive but provides greater flexibility in terms of timing and itinerary. It’s also a good option for those who want to travel with their family or a group of friends.
For the Lukla to EBC flight on a helicopter, the cost is USD 1450 per person. This is for a one-way flight from Lukla to Everest Base Camp. Similarly, the cost of a sharing helicopter for the return trip from EBC to Lukla is also USD 1450 per person.
It’s important to note that these costs are subject to change and may vary depending on the company you choose and the time of year you plan to visit. Additionally, it’s essential to choose a reputable and experienced company that prioritizes safety and comfort for its passengers.
Stunning snow cap view from Everest Base Camp- Team Safe Holiday Adventure 2023
Booking an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour in Nepal is easy and can be done through a variety of methods. Here are some authentic and reliable ways to book your tour:
Directly from a Helicopter Tour Company: You can search for reputable helicopter tour companies in Nepal and book directly with them. Check their website for information on the tour package, price, and availability. Make sure to choose a reliable and experienced company with a good safety record.
Through a Travel Agent: You can also book your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour through a travel agent. Travel agents have connections with various tour companies and can help you find the best deal. They can also provide you with additional information about the tour and help you with the necessary paperwork.
Online Booking: You can also book your tour online through various booking websites that specialize in adventure tours in Nepal. These websites provide a list of options, prices, and other important details about the tour.
No matter how you choose to book your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, it’s essential to ensure that the company is licensed and registered with the Nepali government. Also, make sure to read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of their experience with the company. Always prioritize safety and choose a reputable company with experienced pilots and quality equipment.
Safety is of the utmost importance during the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, and there are several measures that are taken to ensure the safety of the passengers. Here are some of the safety measures that are taken during the tour:
Experienced Pilots: All helicopter pilots are trained and experienced in flying in the mountainous terrain of the Himalayas. They are familiar with the weather conditions, the terrain, and the flight paths.
Well-maintained Helicopters: The helicopters used for the tour are well-maintained and regularly checked for any mechanical issues. They are equipped with state-of-the-art safety equipment, including emergency locator transmitters, first aid kits, and satellite phones.
Weather Checks: Before each flight, the weather conditions are closely monitored to ensure that it is safe to fly. If the weather is not suitable, the flight may be delayed or canceled.
Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness is a common issue for those who are not acclimatized to the high altitude of the Himalayas. The pilots and tour guides are trained to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness and will provide oxygen and medical assistance if needed.
Safety Briefing: Before the flight, all passengers are given a safety briefing that includes information on emergency procedures and what to do in the event of an emergency.
It’s important to choose a reputable and experienced tour company that prioritizes safety and takes all necessary measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, it’s recommended that passengers purchase travel insurance that covers helicopter tours in the event of any unforeseen circumstances.
Choosing the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour over trekking has several benefits, including:
Time-saving: The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour takes only a few hours, whereas trekking to Everest Base Camp can take anywhere from 10-14 days. This means that you can experience the beauty of the Himalayas without sacrificing too much time from your schedule.
Less Physically Demanding: Trekking to Everest Base Camp requires a high level of fitness and endurance. On the other hand, the helicopter tour requires minimal physical effort and is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Better View: The helicopter tour provides a unique and breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest and other peaks, that cannot be experienced while trekking.
More Comfortable: The helicopter tour provides a comfortable and convenient way to experience the Himalayas. You can avoid the discomfort of sleeping in tents and carrying heavy backpacks during the trek.
Better for the Environment: Trekking to Everest Base Camp can have an impact on the environment, including leaving behind trash and contributing to deforestation. The helicopter tour reduces the environmental impact of tourism in the area.
It’s important to note that the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is more expensive than trekking. However, if you have limited time or physical limitations, the benefits of the helicopter tour can outweigh the cost.
Way to EBC
Yes, the duration of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is usually around 4-5 hours round trip. This includes the time it takes to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, land at the Tenzing Hillary Airport, and continue on to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for a brief stopover before returning to Lukla and then to Kathmandu.
The actual time spent at each location may vary depending on the tour package and weather conditions. Some tour packages may include additional stops along the way, such as at the Everest View Hotel in Syangboche or other scenic viewpoints.
It’s important to note that the duration of the tour may be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the monsoon season or in the event of poor visibility. In such cases, the tour may be delayed or rescheduled for safety reasons.
Overall, the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour offers an exciting and efficient way to experience the beauty of the Himalayas in a relatively short amount of time.
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is not physically demanding and is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The tour requires minimal physical effort as passengers do not need to trek or hike to reach the destination.
However, it’s important to note that the tour takes place at high altitude and can be challenging for those who are not accustomed to the thin air. Altitude sickness is a common issue for those who are not acclimatized to the high altitude of the Himalayas. The pilots and tour guides are trained to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness and will provide oxygen and medical assistance if needed.
Additionally, the weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable and may affect the tour. In the event of poor visibility or unfavorable weather conditions, the tour may be delayed or canceled for safety reasons.
Overall, while the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is not physically demanding, it’s important to be aware of the potential challenges and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
6:00 am – Meet your guide and pilot at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
6:30 am – Board the helicopter and take off from Kathmandu towards Lukla.
7:15 am – Land at Lukla airport, one of the most thrilling airports in the world.
7:30 am – Continue your flight towards Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other peaks.
8:00 am – Land at Everest Base Camp and spend some time exploring the area. Take pictures, enjoy the scenery, and learn about the history and culture of the region from your guide.
8:45 am – Fly to the Sagarmatha National Park and land at the Sagboche Everest View Hotel, which offers panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and take in the stunning scenery.
9:30 am – Fly back to Lukla and land at the airport.
10:00 am – Board your helicopter and fly back to Kathmandu.
11:00 am – Land back in Kathmandu and end your tour.
Please note that these times are estimates and may vary depending on weather conditions, air traffic, and other factors. Also, keep in mind that this itinerary may be subject to change based on the operator’s specific tour package and availability.
Here’s a list of items you may want to consider packing for an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour:
Remember to pack light as there may be weight restrictions on the helicopter, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions. It’s also a good idea to check with your tour operator for any specific packing recommendations.
Taking photographs on an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. Here are some photography tips to help you capture stunning images:
Plan ahead: Think about the kind of shots you want to capture, and plan accordingly. Consider the lighting, weather conditions, and angles that will work best.
Use a good camera: A high-quality camera will help you capture sharp and detailed images. If you don’t have a camera, a smartphone with a good camera can also work.
Bring spare batteries and memory cards: High-altitude cold weather can drain your batteries faster, so bring extra batteries and memory cards to ensure you don’t miss any shots.
Use a polarizing filter: A polarizing filter can help cut down on glare and reflections from the snow and ice, making your images look clearer and more vibrant.
Consider composition: Look for interesting foregrounds, leading lines, and angles to create dynamic compositions.
Play with perspective: Take advantage of the helicopter’s bird’s eye view to capture stunning aerial shots.
Shoot in RAW format: Shooting in RAW format gives you more flexibility when editing your images, and can help you recover details and colors that might be lost in JPEG format.
Be patient and stay alert: Keep your camera handy and be ready to snap a shot at a moment’s notice. The lighting and scenery can change quickly, so be alert and patient for the perfect shot.
Remember to enjoy the experience and not get too caught up in taking photographs. Take breaks and enjoy the stunning scenery in front of you.
On the way to Everest base camp from Gorakshep
Here are some rules and regulations to keep in mind for an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour:
Permit: You will need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card to enter the Everest region. Your tour operator should arrange these permits for you.
Flight schedules: Helicopter tours are subject to weather and visibility conditions, and flight schedules may change or be cancelled at short notice. Be prepared for some flexibility in your itinerary.
Luggage: Helicopter tours often have weight restrictions, so be sure to check with your tour operator on the baggage allowance before you pack.
Respect the environment: The Everest region is a fragile environment, and it’s important to respect the natural surroundings. Do not litter, and follow the Leave No Trace principles.
Safety: Follow the instructions of your guide and pilot at all times, and do not venture beyond designated areas. The high altitude and extreme weather conditions can be dangerous, so it’s important to take safety seriously.
Cultural sensitivity: The Everest region is home to the Sherpa people, and it’s important to be respectful of their culture and traditions. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photographs, and avoid loud or disrespectful behavior.
Health precautions: Altitude sickness can be a serious issue at high elevations, so be sure to acclimatize properly and follow your guide’s advice. Bring any necessary medications, and ensure that you have adequate travel insurance coverage.
These are just a few of the rules and regulations to keep in mind for an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour. Be sure to check with your tour operator for any additional guidelines or requirements.
The weather conditions during an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour can vary depending on the season and time of day. Here’s a general overview of the weather conditions you can expect during different seasons:
Spring (March-May): This is one of the best times for a helicopter tour, with clear skies and mild temperatures. However, the afternoons can sometimes get cloudy, so it’s best to plan for morning flights.
Summer (June-August): The summer months can be quite hot and humid, with occasional monsoon rains. It’s important to keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan your flight accordingly.
Fall (September-November): This is another great time for a helicopter tour, with clear skies and cooler temperatures. However, it’s important to be prepared for cold weather at higher elevations.
Winter (December-February): The winter months can be quite cold and snowy, with occasional flight disruptions due to weather conditions. It’s important to dress in warm layers and plan for possible flight delays.
Keep in mind that weather conditions can change quickly in the Everest region, so it’s important to be flexible and prepared for changes in your itinerary. Your tour operator and pilot will also be monitoring weather conditions and making decisions based on safety and visibility concerns.
Nepal is known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and helicopter tours offer an incredible way to experience them. Here’s a comparison of some of the most popular helicopter tours in Nepal, including the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour:
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour: This tour is one of the most popular helicopter tours in Nepal, and for good reason. It offers an incredible opportunity to witness the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, and the surrounding Himalayan ranges. The tour starts from Kathmandu and takes you to Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and finally to Everest Base Camp. You’ll also get to enjoy the stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier, Gokyo Lakes, and other peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour: This tour takes you to the base camp of the Annapurna mountain range, which is also known for its breathtaking views. The tour starts from Pokhara and takes you to Annapurna Base Camp, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Langtang Helicopter Tour: This tour takes you to the Langtang Valley, which is located north of Kathmandu. It is known for its pristine mountain scenery and Tibetan-influenced culture. The tour takes you to Kyanjin Gompa, which is a famous Buddhist monastery located at an altitude of 3,950 meters.
Gosaikunda Helicopter Tour: This tour takes you to Gosaikunda, which is a sacred lake located in the Langtang National Park. It is believed that the lake was created by Lord Shiva and is considered a holy site by Hindus and Buddhists alike. The tour also offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Mardi Himal Helicopter Tour: This tour takes you to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is a relatively new trekking route in Nepal. The tour offers stunning views of the Mardi Himal peak, as well as other peaks like Machhapuchhre and Annapurna.
Manaslu Helicopter Tour: This tour takes you to the Manaslu region, which is located in the Gorkha district of Nepal. It is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage. The tour takes you to the Manaslu Base Camp, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Manaslu Conservation Area.
Dolpo Helicopter Tour: This tour takes you to Dolpo, which is located in the western part of Nepal. It is known for its rugged terrain, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. The tour takes you to Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is a pristine lake located at an altitude of 3,611 meters.
Upper Mustang Helicopter Tour: This tour takes you to Upper Mustang, which is a remote and isolated region of Nepal. It is known for its unique landscape, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural heritage. The tour takes you to Lo Manthang, which is the capital of Upper Mustang.
Overall, all of these helicopter tours offer a unique and incredible way to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Nepal. Each tour has its own highlights and attractions, so it ultimately depends on your interests and preferences when choosing which tour to take.
Best of Upper Mustang
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a popular and exciting way to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas, including the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. Here’s what you can expect during this incredible tour:
Aerial Views: The helicopter tour starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, passing over stunning landscapes of hills and mountains. From Lukla, you’ll fly over the Khumbu region, offering breathtaking aerial views of the snow-capped peaks, glaciers, valleys, and forests.
Landing at Everest Base Camp: The helicopter will make a stop at Kala Patthar, a small hill located near Everest Base Camp. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to step out and explore the stunning surroundings of the Everest region, including the Khumbu Icefall and the towering peaks of the Himalayas.
Hiking and Sightseeing: You can enjoy a short hike around the base camp area and explore the natural beauty of the Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding mountains. You can also visit the nearby villages and monasteries to experience the unique Sherpa culture and way of life.
Scenic Flight Back: After spending some time at the base camp, you’ll board the helicopter for a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. During the return flight, you’ll have another chance to enjoy the stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and other landmarks along the way.
Overall, the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique perspective of the Himalayas and the natural beauty of Nepal. With the convenience of a helicopter ride, you can cover a vast area in a short amount of time and witness the stunning landscapes of the Everest region.
The typical itinerary for an Everest Helicopter Tour includes the following landing places:
Lukla: Lukla is a small town in the Khumbu region of Nepal, and it is the starting point for most treks to Mount Everest. The helicopter will land here to refuel and allow passengers to stretch their legs.
Kalapathar Hill: Kalapathar is a small peak located near Mount Everest that offers stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding Himalayan range. The helicopter will land here to allow passengers to take in the breathtaking views and take photos.
Everest View Hotel: The Everest View Hotel is a luxury hotel located near Mount Everest that offers panoramic views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape. The helicopter will land here to allow passengers to enjoy a meal or a cup of tea while taking in the spectacular views.
Lukla: After visiting the Everest View Hotel, the helicopter will return to Lukla to refuel and prepare for the final leg of the tour.
Kathmandu Airport: The helicopter will return to Kathmandu and land at the airport, marking the end of the tour.
Please note that the itinerary may vary depending on the tour operator and weather conditions.
Take on at Lukla airport
The age limit for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour can vary depending on the tour operator and the specific tour package. However, in general, there is no specific age limit for this tour.
That being said, the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour can be physically demanding and challenging due to the high altitude and the nature of the flight. Therefore, it is recommended that passengers should be in good physical health and able to withstand the rigors of the tour.
It is also important to note that passengers under the age of 18 years old may need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Additionally, passengers over a certain age may be required to provide a doctor’s certificate stating that they are fit to undertake the tour.
Before booking the tour, it is important to check with the tour operator regarding their specific age requirements and any other health and safety guidelines.
The choice between a sharing and a private Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour depends on your personal preference and budget.
A sharing tour involves flying with other passengers who have booked the same tour. This can be a more affordable option as the cost is shared among the group. However, this means that you will be flying with strangers and the itinerary may not be customizable to your preferences.
On the other hand, a private tour offers greater flexibility and privacy. You can customize the itinerary to your liking and have more control over the pace of the tour. This can be a more expensive option as you are paying for the exclusive use of the helicopter, but it can be worth it for a more personalized experience.
Both sharing and private tours can offer stunning views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. It ultimately comes down to your budget and preferences in terms of privacy and flexibility.
What is the duration of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
A: The tour typically takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the weather and other factors.
How many people can go on the tour?
A: The helicopter can accommodate up to 4-5 people, depending on the weight restrictions.
What is the cost of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
A: The cost of the tour varies depending on the tour operator and other factors, but it typically ranges from $1000-$1500 per person.
What is the best time to go on the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
A: The best time to go on the tour is from September to November or from March to May when the weather is clear and stable.
Is there a weight limit for the helicopter tour?
A: Yes, there is a weight limit for the helicopter tour. The weight limit varies depending on the helicopter and other factors, but it is typically around 250-300 pounds per person.
What should I wear on the tour?
A: It is recommended to wear warm and comfortable clothing, as the temperature can be quite cold at high altitudes. It is also recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots.
Is there oxygen available on the tour?
A: Yes, oxygen is available on the tour in case of emergency or if you feel uncomfortable due to the altitude.
Can I take pictures and videos during the tour?
A: Yes, you can take pictures and videos during the tour. It is recommended to bring a good quality camera to capture the stunning views.
What is the altitude of Everest Base Camp?
A: The altitude of Everest Base Camp is 5,364 meters or 17,598 feet.
Is there a restroom available during the tour?
A: There are no restrooms available during the tour, but you can take a break at Lukla or other stops along the way.
Can I bring food and drinks on the tour?
A: Yes, you can bring food and drinks on the tour, but it is recommended to bring light snacks and water.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?
A: If the weather is bad, the tour may be postponed or cancelled. You can either reschedule the tour or get a refund.
Do I need travel insurance for the tour?
A: Yes, it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses and evacuation.
Can I customize the tour itinerary?
A: Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary according to your preferences and budget, but it may affect the cost of the tour.
How high does the helicopter fly during the tour?
A: The helicopter typically flies at an altitude of 4,000-6,000 meters or 13,000-20,000 feet during the tour.
Is there a guide available during the tour?
A: Yes, there is a guide available during the tour who can provide information about the landmarks and culture of the Everest region.
Can I hike to Everest Base Camp from Lukla?
A: Yes, you can hike to Everest Base Camp from Lukla, but it typically takes around 10-12 days.
Can I see Mount Everest from the helicopter?
A: Yes, you can see Mount Everest and other peaks of the Himalayas from the helicopter.
What is the cancellation policy for the tour?
A: The cancellation policy varies depending on the tour operator, but it typically requires a certain amount of notice before the tour date to get a full refund.
Discover the Best Helicopter Tours in the Everest Region with Us
Click here to explore our Everest Base Camp(EBC) Landing Helicopter tour from Kathmandu packages and their respective costs.