Everest Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu

Everest helicopter tour introduction - What is an Everest helicopter tour?

If you are new to the words "Everest helicopter tour", then this is for you. The Everest helicopter tour, popularly known as the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour, is an unforgettable journey to the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest. You may have heard about the Everest Base Camp trek or Mount Everest expedition.

These are the two most famous ways to explore the Khumbu region (where Mt. Everest is located in Nepal) and Everest itself, along with Sherpa culture and many other Himalayan peaks. However, they aren't the only way to get close to Everest. The Everest helicopter tour from Kathmandu is another incredible choice.

You can experience the world's highest mountains and breathtaking Himalayan scenery without several days of strenuous hiking. On this scenic Himalayan flight, you travel from Kathmandu (Nepal's capital) to the Everest region and return in just 4-5 hours.

As soon as you leave Kathmandu, you will fly over the dramatic, lush valleys and winding rivers that soon shift to picturesque mountain villages and stark alpine landscapes with towering mountains and massive glaciers.

Not every Everest helicopter tour offers the same experience. For instance, some packages are designed to offer an Everest Base Camp flyover experience, while premium options may include multiple landings, including Lukla, Kala Patthar, and Hotel Everest View.

Likewise, some packages may include landing at Hotel Everest View but not at Kala Patthar. Depending on your package, your landing points, tour duration, and route, the tour cost may vary.

If we consider the pricing of the Everest helicopter tour, multiple choices are best. It allows you to not only pick the package that best suits your budget but also your interests.

Travelers who are visiting Nepal on a short vacation or only have a couple of days in Kathmandu and wish to add a Mount Everest excursion to their schedule will find the Everest helicopter tour perfect.

It is suitable for tourists of all ages, including families, kids, senior travelers, couples, students, corporate groups, adventure seekers, and anyone who wants to witness Mount Everest in comfort and in a short time.

What does the Everest helicopter tour from Kathmandu include?

The Everest helicopter tour from Kathmandu is designed to provide convenience and a memorable Himalayan experience without physical or time commitment. The tour generally includes the following:

• Pick-up and drop-off to your hotel: Our team will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel in Kathmandu and also escort you back to the hotel after the tour ends. Our private vehicle and team will handle the airport transfers, ensuring a hassle-free commute for you.
• Permits and airport procedure support: We take care of Everest helicopter tour permits. Our team obtains them on your behalf. Likewise, our representatives at the airport will assist you with security checks, boarding procedures, and pre-flight briefing.
• Flight across the Everest region: You will fly northeast from Kathmandu to the Everest region. From the urban landscape of Kathmandu to the jaw-dropping views of the Himalayan ranges on the horizon, the flight will be extremely exciting and blissful for nature/mountain lovers. You will witness a variety of landscapes ranging from lush valleys to rugged high-altitude valleys and snow-covered mountains.
• Landings: One of the specialties of the Everest helicopter tour is that it includes landings. Most Everest helicopter tour packages include a landing at Lukla for refueling and at Hotel Everest View for breakfast. Premium packages also include a landing at Kala Patthar. So, you are not only flying but also experience the soothing Himalayan air and touch the ground.
• Return flight to Kathmandu: The Everest helicopter tour price also includes the return flight to Kathmandu. You will follow the exact flight path until weather or air traffic demands a change.

Everest helicopter tour packages

As we have mentioned earlier, not every Everest helicopter tour package offers the same experience. Here, you will learn about different Everest helicopter tour packages and choose the one that best meets your interests. With Adventure White Mountain, you get all the variations.

Everest helicopter flyover

The Everest helicopter flyover option is best for a sightseeing experience. Other than Lukla (for refueling), you will not land anywhere else on this tour. You will witness close views of Mount Everest along with many other mountains, glaciers, lush valleys, Sherpa villages, etc.

Everest Base Camp helicopter tour

The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is the standard program. It includes landing at Lukla for refueling, a flyover of Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, and landing at Everest View Hotel for breakfast. This itinerary is best for travelers looking for multiple landings and interested in having breakfast at Hotel Everest View.

Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing

The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing is a premium package with a high cost. It is best for travelers who want to experience landing at Kala Patthar. This package also includes breakfast at Hotel Everest View and landing at Lukla for refueling.

Group joining and private Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing

You can do the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing in a shared group or privately. Both options are available with us and have their own perks. 

Private helicopter charter

A private helicopter charter is the most luxurious and exclusive way to travel to Mount Everest. It is a private tour, so the entire helicopter is booked for you and your group only.

The private Everest helicopter charter offers excellent flexibility and personalization. Usually, a Kala Patthar landing is included in a private Everest helicopter tour.

However, you can include additional landings as per your desire. Depending on the number of landings, the price of the package may vary.

The private Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is best for families, couples, solo travelers, photographers, VIPs, corporate groups, and anyone seeking privacy and flexibility.

Group joining Everest Base Camp helicopter tour

The group joining Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is an affordable option because you buy a seat on a per-head basis. Without Kala Patthar landing, 5 passengers can fly at a time, and with Kala Patthar landing, 2-2 passengers can fly at a time.

If you are a solo traveler or a small group, you can join a shared Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with us. We have both Kala Patthar landing and non-landing options available. You can choose the one that best meets your budget and requirements.

Group joining vs. private Everest helicopter tour

Below, we have made a table that shows the difference between the group-joining Everest helicopter tour and the private Everest helicopter tour.

Why is the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour famous?

The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour offers a complete Himalayan experience in just 4-5 hours. You do not have to do a multi-day trek, deal with limited services, cold & high altitude, or bear any physical challenges. This tour is also easy to follow and very comfortable. If you are seeking convenience, scenery, and accessibility in the remote Everest region, the EBC helicopter tour is a great option.

Short holidays

Travelers on short holidays find the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour an incredible option. They get to see Mount Everest up close and even experience standing in the region.

No multi-day, high-altitude trekking

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is definitely the most popular among adventurers visiting Nepal to see the tallest mountain in the world. However, it is not for everyone. There is no hiking during the helicopter tour and no risk of altitude sickness.

Aerial panoramas and photography

If you want to witness the true magnificence of the Himalayas and their sheer massiveness, the helicopter tour is perfect. You will understand the rivers, valleys, gorges, alpine meadows, glaciers, and mountain ranges that form the Himalayas (or at least a part of it). And capture them from an incredible height and angle.

Luxury travel

Helicopter weather sharing, or private charter, is a luxury travel option in Nepal. You pay for premium service, but will not feel a dent in your pocket.

Celebrate special occasions

If you want to celebrate an occasion or a milestone, the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is a great choice. We have seen many travelers proposing to their partners, celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and achievements during the EBC heli tour.

Tourists should understand that the experience they will get during the Everest helicopter tour and Everest Base Camp trek will be completely different. Both are great adventure options. Choose the one that best aligns with your interests, expectations, budget, time, and physical fitness.  

Everest Base Camp helicopter tour route

The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour route includes flying from Kathmandu to Lukla. You land in Lukla for around 15 minutes to refuel the chopper and fly to Kala Patthar.

Depending on your Everest helicopter tour itinerary, you may or may not land at Kala Patthar. Then enjoy a flyover of Everest Base Camp and return to Hotel Everest View (located above Namche Bazaar).

Here, you land for around 30-45 minutes to have breakfast. After that, you will fly back to Kathmandu, following the same flight path.

Note that flying in the Himalayas highly depends on the real-time weather conditions. So, our planned itinerary and route may change if needed. We prioritize our passengers' safety over following the itinerary or landings. It is important that travelers also understand this variable, which is totally out of everyone's hands.

Everest Base Camp helicopter tour duration and approximate timing schedule

• 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM: Hotel pickup in Kathmandu.
• 5:45 AM – 6:15 AM: Arrival at Kathmandu Domestic Airport, security check, boarding, and flight briefing.
• 6:15 AM – 7:00 AM - Take-off from Kathmandu Airport, aerial views of Langtang range, Gaurishankar, rolling green hills, terraces, and winding glacial rivers.
• 7:00 AM – 7:15 AM - Land at Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport, 2,845 m) for refueling the helicopter and take a brief walk around.
• 7:15 AM – 7:50 AM - Flight from Lukla to Pheriche with possible landing at Pheriche for weight readjustment.
• 7:50 AM – 8:05 AM: Scenic flight to Kala Patthar.
• 8:05 AM – 8:20 AM: Landing at Kala Patthar. You will have 10 to 15 minutes of ground time to enjoy the views and take pictures.
• 8:20 AM – 8:30 AM: Everest Base Camp flyover. Witness close views of the Khumbu Glacier and the Khumbu Icefall.
• 8:40 AM – 9:20 AM: Breakfast at Everest View Hotel.
• 9:20 AM – 10:15 AM: Return flight to Kathmandu and hotel drop-off.

Everest helicopter tour itinerary

Kathmandu (1,324 m/4,344 ft): Transfer to the domestic airport

The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour Itinerary starts in Kathmandu, the City of Temples. Our team will pick you up from your hotel at the designated time and escort you to the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport.

After security screening, you will get the boarding pass and have a quick flight briefing from one of our flight instructors. Then meet the pilot and get ready to take off.

Lukla (2,850 m/9,350 ft): Fly to Lukla Airport

As soon as you take off, the first thing that will blow your mind is the sheer massiveness of Kathmandu City. Then, the Himalayan ranges come into perspective at a distance.

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla will be around 45 minutes long. You will enjoy beautiful aerial views of the green hills, terraces, winding rivers, and scattered mountain villages.

Land in Lukla for refueling

We’ll land in Lukla to refuel the helicopter. Depending on the air traffic, weather conditions, and other helicopters in line, we may land for 15 to 25 minutes. You can stretch and walk around the airport while we land.

Pheriche (4,410 m/14,468 ft) landing for weight readjustment and Shuttle Flight

After leaving Lukla, you will fly towards Kala Patthar. We will land at Pheriche, a small Sherpa village. We land here to redistribute the weight. So, to land at Kala Patthar, each shuttle has a 250 kg combined weight limit for the passengers.

At a time, only 2-2 passengers can land at Kala Patthar. We divide the group and fly them to Kala Patthar and EBC one after another.

Each group will get the same flying time and experience. Or, we can arrange additional shuttles from Pheriche village if you are okay to pay the charges accordingly.

Check out our best-selling trip

Duration: 10 Days

Difficulty

Everest Base Camp Trek Return By Helicopter

Price from

US$1800 US$2300

Starts from

Kathmandu

Ends at

Kathmandu

Kala Patthar landing (5,550 m/18,208 ft) The world’s most insane viewpoint

After leaving Pheriche, you will fly to Kala Patthar. You will reach there in the blink of an eye. The mountain vistas become quite prominent. You will see a jaw-dropping aerial view of the Khumbu Glacier.

The helicopter soon lands at Kala Patthar. You will have 10 to 15 minutes of ground time to enjoy the views and take pictures. We cannot stay longer than that at Kala Patthar for the following reasons:

• Helicopter engines are not shut down at Kala Patthar as they may not restart because of the cold climate, thin air, and high altitude.
• Staying more than 15 minutes increases the risk of altitude sickness.
• Other helicopters are flying in and out of Kala Patthar constantly during the peak seasons. So, every helicopter has the same allocated landing time.

Everest Base Camp flyover

Once we lift off from Kala Patthar, we continue the flight to Everest Base Camp. You will enjoy spectacular views of the Khumbu Glacier, Khumbu Icefall, Mount Everest, and many other mountains.

You can see the challenging terrain of the Everest Base Camp and the sheer massiveness of Mt. Everest. The close-up look of the Khumbu Icefall will also blow your mind.

Land at Hotel Everest View (3,880 m/ 12,729 ft)

Your next stop will be Hotel Everest View. It is a world-renowned high-altitude luxury hotel with a prestigious Guinness World Record. It will be a quick descent from EBC to Hotel Everest View.

You will have around 30 to 45 minutes to enjoy a delicious breakfast at this hotel. You can choose the food as per your wish and budget. Our Everest Base Camp helicopter tour package does not cover breakfast expenses.

Note that it will not be your usual breakfast. You will have your food while enjoying mesmerizing views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, and Mt. Ama Dablam.

Fly back to Kathmandu

After breakfast, you will hop on the helicopter for one last time and enjoy a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Upon landing at Kathmandu Airport, our team will welcome you back in the city.

We humbly request that you leave your flight experience review when you have time. Our team will transfer you to your hotel and bid you our last goodbye.

Landing at Kala Patthar

Kala Patthar is a famous viewpoint in the Everest region. It especially offers a jaw-dropping close view of Mount Everest. Standing 5,550 meters above sea level, Kala Patthar is one of the best points to admire the grandeur of Everest and many other mountains such as Pumori, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc.

To land a helicopter at Kala Patthar, we have to follow the strict rules set by the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority. First, a strict 250 kg weight limit applies above Pheriche village (4,410 m).

So, the total combined weight of passengers and their bags must not exceed the 250 kg weight limit. This limit is set to maintain the helicopter's performance at high altitude.

This is why only 2-2 travelers can fly in a helicopter at a time for Kala Patthar landing.

How long does the helicopter stay at Kala Patthar?

Usually, the helicopter lands for 5 to 10 minutes at Kala Patthar. The landing time depends on the weather conditions and traffic.

In the peak seasons (spring and autumn), the Everest helicopter tour is quite in demand. So, a good number of flights are operated each day. This leads to limited landing time and slight air traffic.

To provide equal landing time to all helicopters during peak seasons, the Nepal government sets a fixed time, and we cannot stay longer than that. 

Additionally, we cannot turn off the helicopter engine at Kala Patthar. It remains on while you enjoy the ground time. This is because the engine may not start due to the cold at 5,550 meters above sea level. 

Is Kala Patthar landing guaranteed?

Yes, if you have booked an Everest helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing, the landing remains subject to weather conditions and visibility. If the operating conditions are not safe, the pilot may decide to skip landing (we do our best to land but do not go against the weather).

You may not land at Kala Patthar if

• Poor visibility
• Strong winds
• Snow or unsuitable surface conditions
• Air traffic or aviation restrictions
• Weight and fuel considerations
• Other safety or operational concerns

The weather and visibility are generally favorable in the early morning hours when most Everest helicopter tours depart. So, landing is most likely to happen.

In fact, winter is also a great time for an Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing. Stable weather and excellent visibility make December, February, and January some of the best times for the Everest helicopter tour.

What happens if the helicopter cannot land at Kala Patthar?

The helicopter does not land at Kala Patthar only when the operational conditions prevent the planned landing. If we see sudden fluctuations in weather, strong winds, or poor visibility, we may have to cancel the landing at Kala Patthar.

Alternatively, travelers can enjoy a slightly longer flyover sightseeing, or we can also choose an alternative landing location if possible. An alternative landing location may cost more money.

Do you get a partial refund if you do not get to land at Kala Patthar?

No. You do not get a partial refund if you do not land at Kala Patthar. This is something that travelers have to understand and accept when flying in the Himalayas. We do not cancel the landing unless it comes to your safety, and we do not take chances with our travelers' safety.

Does the helicopter land at Everest Base Camp?

It is one of the most common questions we hear from our guests every year. And the answer to that is NO. Helicopters do not land at Everest Base Camp.

You will only experience a flyover at Everest Base Camp (EBC). Therefore, the package is advertised as Kala Patthar landing.

You do not land on EBC because there is not enough landing space for commercial helicopter flights. The terrain is a moving piece of glacier, so it is also not stable.

In spring and autumn, climbers' tents cover the majority of the base camp area, so space is also very limited.

And you cannot see the upper part of Mount Everest from its base camp because the huge Nuptse wall blocks the view.

On the other hand, from Kala Patthar, you will enjoy a jaw-dropping, clear view of Mt. Everest's upper section.

Breakfast at Hotel Everest View

Breakfast at Hotel Everest View is one of the major highlights of the Everest helicopter tour. It allows travelers to spend a bit longer on the ground in the Everest region and have a one-on-one interaction with the locals.

The Hotel Everest View is a famous luxury mountain lodge sitting at 3,962 meters above sea level. It is the first luxury lodge in the Himalayas of Nepal and also one of the highest luxury hotels in the world.

The hotel is strategically built to offer a view of Mt. Everest from all of its rooms. There are only 12 rooms in this hotel, and each of them has en suite bathrooms and private balconies. While having breakfast, you can also see a captivating distant view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, and Mt. Ama Dablam. This is the time when you finally rest for a bit and calm down while indulging in delicious food and enjoying the Everest landscape thoroughly.

Is breakfast at Hotel Everest View included in the Everest helicopter tour cost?

No. Our Everest helicopter tour cost does not include breakfast expenses at Hotel Everest View. Travelers have to pay for their breakfast.

The hotel charges a fixed USD 31 or NRP 4,500 per person for breakfast. This is for the set menu that includes toast or pancakes with omelet, sausages/bacon, grilled tomatoes, and tea or coffee.

Everest Base Camp helicopter tour cost

The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour cost depends on many factors such as shared or private flight, group size, and landing locations.

Likewise, companies also price their Everest Base Camp helicopter tour package depending on their service, support, reputation, and experience.

On the bright side, you can find Everest Base Camp helicopter tour cost options ranging from standard rates to luxury rates.

Instead of only focusing on prices, we highly recommend travelers check what the operator is exactly charging for. Sometimes paying USD 100-200 extra can result in a much better tour experience.

How much does an Everest helicopter tour cost in 2026 and 2027?

Our Everest helicopter tour costs USD 1,300 per person in 2026 and 2027. However, if you are in a group of three or more travelers, you can get a special discount per person.

You can check out our group price offers on our Everest helicopter tour package page. In summer/monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February), the price may decrease slightly because of low demand.

Group size and helicopter capacity

The number of passengers directly influences the Everest helicopter tour cost. For example, a group joining a flight costs less because it is shared among 3-5 passengers. However, on a private charter, you have to pay the full price of the helicopter yourself.

You should understand that at high altitude, the helicopter's performance decreases. We have to follow operating limitations to ensure the aircraft is performing in optimal condition. This brings restrictions like a 250 kg weight limit above Pheriche village if a Kala Patthar landing is included. If you don't include a Kala Patthar landing, five passengers can fly over Everest at a time.

What happens if you are in a group of 3 or more travelers and want to do the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing?

If you are in a group of 3, 4, 5, or more travelers, we can arrange the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing for you. However, there will be a little twist.

After flying from Lukla, you will land in Pheriche to redistribute the weight. At Pheriche, we divide the group into 2, 3, or more groups, as needed (maintaining a 250 kg weight limit).

One group flies to Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp and enjoys landing before returning to Pheriche. Then the second group flies. All groups get the same landing duration and flight experience.

Alternatively, we can arrange an additional shuttle that allows the entire group to fly at the same time. However, you have to pay for an additional shuttle (the rate is not so high).

Our Hot Selling Trip

Duration: 14 Days

Difficulty

Everest Base Camp Trek

Price from

US$1200 US$1500

Starts from

Kathmandu

Ends at

Kathmandu

Who is this Everest helicopter tour for?

If you want to explore the beauty and adventure of the Everest region without trekking for two weeks, the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is perfect for you. Travelers of all ages who are fine with flying in a helicopter can do this tour.

• Families: The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with or without Kala Patthar landing is one of the best ways to introduce big Himalayan mountains to your kids. It is an easy, comfortable trip that you can do with your whole family. Our special group discount also makes the overall cost quite reasonable.
• Senior travelers: We know many senior travelers have to put off their dream of seeing Mount Everest because they cannot trek or stay at high altitude for a long time. With this package, we take you deep into the heart of the Himalayas without any difficulty or hassle.
• Luxury travelers: If you are a luxury traveler always looking for adventure with comfort, the Everest helicopter tour is perfect for you.
• Travelers with limited mobility: No one can stop you from exploring the Himalayas, and the Everest helicopter tour makes it even more possible for travelers with limited mobility and health issues. We can plan the tour and provide the required assistance.
• Business travellers: If you are visiting Kathmandu for a few days only and do not want to miss the opportunity to see Mount Everest, you can do our Everest Base Camp helicopter tour with Kala Patthar landing.
• Short holiday visitors: Not everyone visits Nepal for two weeks. If you are visiting Nepal on a short holiday and wish to include Mount Everest in your itinerary, consider this helicopter tour. It is not even that expensive for the experience it offers.
• Non-trekkers: We understand not everyone likes trekking, and it doesn't mean you cannot explore the Himalayas because of that. Packages like the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour are best for non-trekkers to get close to the Himalayas without trekking.
• Couple: If you want to give a memorable, romantic trip to your partner, what could be better than flying above the Himalayas and a lovely breakfast at Hotel Everest View?
• Solo travelers: If you are traveling solo to Nepal, consider our EBC helicopter tour. You can join a shared or private tour as per your budget. 
• Photography enthusiasts: The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is one of the best packages out there to capture Mount Everest and other incredible mountains not only from the air but also from the ground.

Everest helicopter tour best time

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times for the Everest helicopter tour. In spring and autumn, the Everest region has much more stable weather compared to summer/monsoon and winter seasons. Weather and visibility in Kathmandu are also favorable for takeoffs and landings.

These days, winter offers some of the clearest skies and excellent visibility. Some days can be dark and gloomy, but most days are bright and perfect for an Everest helicopter tour.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a popular time for the Everest helicopter tour. After winter, spring brings comfortable, warm weather and preferable flying conditions in the Himalayas.

Visibility is great, and mountain vistas are impressive. There can be cloud formations, wind, and haze as the weather is in a transition phase from winter to summer.

However, the morning hours are usually calm and stable, perfect for the Everest helicopter tour. The scenery in the foothills is incredible in spring. Colorful rhododendrons cover the hills.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the post-monsoon period. Monsoon rain clears all pollution and dust from the skies. So, the visibility and mountain views are outstanding.

The monsoon season gradually withdraws by the end of September. October and November bring the finest time of the year to travel in the Himalayas, including helicopter flights.

You will enjoy extraordinary mountain landscapes in autumn. The scenery in autumn is also superb. The valleys slowly turn from lush green to colors like yellow, red, and brown.

While spring and autumn are the peak seasons for Everest Base Camp helicopter with Kala Patthar landing, demand is also high. This leads to high tour rates and air traffic.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings cold in the Himalayas. Snowfall and freezing temperatures are common in the mountains of Nepal in the winter season. However, due to global warming, the snowfall has drastically decreased over the last few years, especially at the foothills. On most mornings, skies are quite clear with excellent visibility. So, if you happen to be in Kathmandu in winter, we highly recommend checking out the Everest helicopter tour.

Note that there can be flight delays in winter, and as demand is low, shared flights may also be limited. Make sure your schedule is a little flexible. The best thing about an Everest helicopter tour in winter is that you get to have a peaceful tour. The region is empty, so there is no waiting for landing clearance at Kala Patthar, and the Hotel Everest View is also peaceful.

Summer/monsoon (June to August)

June to August is the summer and monsoon season in Nepal. On sunny days, you can do an Everest helicopter tour. However, there can be cloud build-ups, which can limit the visibility and mountain vistas.

Likewise, the monsoon comes at the start of July and remains till mid/late September. It comes and goes. Sometimes, rainy days can last a week or more at a time.

During that period, visibility is lowest, and flying in the Himalayas is not safe. So, all non-essential flights are grounded.

To do the Everest helicopter tour in summer/monsoon, your timing has to be perfect. In this season, delays and cancellations are frequent, so have a flexible schedule

Check out our Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour with landing details 

Duration: 5 Hours

Difficulty

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Price from

US$1100 US$1300

Starts from

Kathmandu

Ends at

Kathmandu

Which are the best months to fly to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar?

Helicopters used during the Everest helicopter tour

We use the best, high-performing helicopter for our Everest flights. Airbus H125 (formerly AS350 B3e) is the internationally recognized helicopter for the finest high-altitude performance, and we use it. As per the requirement, we also use Bell helicopters. 

Airbus H125 (formerly AS350 B3e)

The Airbus H125 is known for its exceptional high-altitude capabilities. It is the top choice for commercial helicopter tours, rescue missions, and mountaineering support in the Himalayas. This helicopter is designed to operate safely in mountainous terrain and thin air. 

The Airbus H125 offers

• Exceptional high-altitude flying capability
• Powerful engine for mountain operations
• Excellent stability in varying weather conditions
• Large panoramic windows for sightseeing
• Comfortable passenger seating
• Proven reliability in the Himalayas
• Low vibration for a smoother flight
• Fast cruising speed
• Excellent safety record

Bell helicopter (when applicable)

Bell 407 is another helicopter often used during Everest flights. This helicopter is used for specific tours in the Everest region. It is known for its

• Comfortable passenger cabins
• Reliable turbine engines
• Smooth flight characteristics
• Good visibility
• Modern avionics
• Proven operational reliability

How to prepare for the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour?

There is not much to do when it comes to preparing for the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour. It is a pretty easy trip that does not demand hectic walking or anything specific. 

Make sure you are dressed for the cold Himalayan weather and carry a few essentials such as your SPF, UV sunglasses, money/payment card, mobile, passport, etc. 

Dress appropriately

The climate at Kala Patthar will be way colder compared to Kathmandu. So, even if the weather is hot in Kathmandu, you will be cold in the Himalayas. So, you have to dress appropriately. 

We recommend dressing in layers. It means wearing a breathable base layer, adding a fleece jacket, and topping it off with an outer layer to protect you from the cold wind. 

Comfortable shoes

Wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The mountain terrain is rugged, so you need something that allows you to have safe, light movement at Kala Patthar and while walking to Hotel Everest View. 

Do not forget gloves

Your hands will get cold. Gloves will help you take photographs and handle the camera more comfortably. 

Beanie and UV sunglasses

Even if you do not want to wear a beanie, keep one in your backpack just in case you change your mind. Likewise, we recommend high-quality UV-protected sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright sunlight, snow glare, and strong ultraviolet rays.

Packing list for the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour 

Packing for the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is quite easy. In fact, you do not need much. However, you must wear clothes appropriately so you do not get cold in the high mountains.

Note that the climate is always chilly in the mountains, and the higher you ascend, the lower the temperature drops. So, whether you are doing a helicopter tour to Kala Patthar in spring, autumn, summer, or winter, you need to be dressed warmly.

Similarly, layer the clothes smartly. It will allow you to remove or add as per the climate. Wear comfortable underwear and a base layer. Then add a thermal/fleece layer. Finally, wear an outer layer like a down jacket or an insulated waterproof jacket. 

• Do not wear heels or clothes that are easily blown in the wind.
• Carry money for breakfast expenses at Hotel Everest View.
• Keep your luggage as light as possible.
• Your battery will drain faster at high altitude due to the cold climate, so pack a power bank or spare batteries.

Clothing - worn on your body

• UV sunglasses
• Comfortable undergarments
• Breathable, moisture-wicking base layer
• Fleece mid-layer jacket
• Windproof and water-resistant outer layer
• Wool or fleece beanie covering ears fully, or a balaclava in winter
• Neck gaiter or scarf
• Warm, fuzzy gloves
• Warm socks
• Insulated waterproof hiking shoes

In your daypack

• SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen
• SPF 30+ lip balm
• Small 500ml water bottle
• Valid passport or national ID - required at the CAAN check-in terminal
• Camera with 100% charged battery and spare batteries
• A smartphone and a small portable power bank
• Any personal medication, including altitude medication if prescribed

What to leave at the hotel

• Large suitcases or rucksacks
• Valuables beyond what you need for the tour
• Laptop and unnecessary electronics
• Any unnecessary things

Everest helicopter tour booking

You can book the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour directly through our website. We have a secure payment gateway and an easy booking system that allows you to book your seat in just a few clicks.

• Tour availability: The Everest helicopter tour is available throughout the year. However, spring and autumn only have daily departures.
• Payment methods: We accept payment via credit cards, debit cards, international bank transfer, and online payment gateways. Cash payment is also available if you are in Kathmandu.  
• Deposit and final payment: You can make a small booking deposit. It allows you to book your seat. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can clear the due amount before the tour begins.
• Last-minute bookings: If you happen to be in Kathmandu and want to join an Everest Base Camp helicopter tour, remember us. We take last-minute bookings, too. You can contact us via our WhatsApp number or visit our office.

Cancellation policy:

i. Helicopter flights in the Himalayas are highly weather-dependent. So, if we delay, postpone, or cancel the tour because of weather, you have the option to receive a full refund.

ii. If the tour is cancelled by the traveler, there will be a cancellation charge depending on when you cancel the trip. The closer you cancel the tour to your departure date, the higher the cancellation charge will be.

Everest Base Camp helicopter tour tips and safety

Your safety is our priority. Our trusted airlines adhere to all rules set by the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority. Moreover, our many years of expertise in flying to the Everest region ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Flight safety tips

• Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure to calmly check in and attend the safety briefing.
• Pack only permitted items in your hand carry.
• The baggage allowance is quite strict when it comes to helicopter flights in the Himalayas. So, strictly follow it or pay extra money for additional luggage.
• Wear warm clothes in layers and add a windproof outer layer.
• Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip and sunglasses.
• Secure loose items such as scarves, hats, or anything lightweight that can blow away in the rotor wash.
• Make sure to keep your camera, phone, and other valuable things safely in your pack.
• Do not drink alcohol the night before the flight and have a light breakfast on the day of the flight.
• If you have any medical conditions, inform us ahead of time and consult your doctor before booking the flight.

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• Pay attention during the flight briefing and ask your questions.
• Follow your pilot's instructions during the flight.
• Keep your seat belt fastened throughout the flight.
• Remain seated until the helicopter lands.
• Only enter and exit the helicopter upon your pilot's signal.
• Keep your personal belongings securely inside the helicopter.
• If you feel unwell or uncomfortable, inform your pilot immediately

Everest Base Camp helicopter tour cost Excludes

• Do not smoke inside the helicopter.
• Do not open the helicopter doors.
• Do not change seats once in the air.
• Never walk toward the tail rotor. It is extremely dangerous.
• Do not approach the helicopter or get out of it until directed by the pilot or ground staff.
• Avoid making sudden movements while boarding or exiting.
• Do not throw anything out of the helicopter.

High-altitude safety

• Drink plenty of water before and after the flight.
• Have garlic soup and ginger-honey tea.
• Rest and avoid strenuous activity for a few hours right after landing.
• If you feel sick, ask for help from your guide or any local.

Conclusion

We have answered everything about the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour in this blog. By reading this blog, you will be mentally ready for the journey and make suitable booking and packing decisions. 

If you have any more questions, feel free to talk to us anytime. We would love to answer your questions and help you curate your perfect Everest helicopter tour. 

We have been organizing Everest Base Camp helicopter tours for several years. Our team is well-trained and experienced in facilitating hassle-free helicopter tours in the Everest region. 

Whether you are travelling for the very first time in Nepal, are a solo traveler, or traveling with your family, you will get Everest Base Camp helicopter tour pricing and service with us.