Everest Helicopter Tour

Trip Information

Discover the awe-inspiring splendor of the Himalayas like never before with our exclusive Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour featuring a landing. Offered by Himalaya Holiday Service, this exceptional package in Nepal promises an unforgettable joyride that will inspire you and create memories to last a lifetime.

Embark on a unique adventure departing from Kathmandu and experience the majesty of the Himalayas with the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. From an unparalleled vantage point, you’ll witness the base of the famed Kalapathar Hill, situated just a stone’s throw from Everest, offering you the closest view possible without the physical demands of a long trek.

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital. After a warm welcome and a detailed briefing, you’ll board a well-equipped helicopter piloted by an experienced professional. As you ascend into the clear blue Himalayan skies, watch the landscape transform—from the lively cityscape to the tranquil, mountainous region adorned with sparkling rivers, lush valleys, dense forests, ancient farm terraces, and quaint mountain villages.

As you soar higher, snow-capped peaks emerge, leaving you speechless with panoramic vistas. The tour takes you over rolling green hills, picturesque valleys, and pristine countryside, showcasing a dramatic and diverse topography. Yet, the true magic unfolds as you approach the Everest region.

Flying into the heart of the Khumbu Valley, home to both Mount Everest and the resilient Sherpa highlanders, your excitement will mount as the helicopter draws near the legendary peaks. Enjoy unrivaled views of Mount Everest alongside Lhotse, Nuptse, and many other majestic summits that define the Himalayan range. Standing at an awe-inspiring 8,848.86 meters, Mount Everest’s grandeur will leave you marveling at nature’s wonders.

The helicopter circles the Everest Base Camp, revealing stunning scenes of the gigantic Khumbu Icefall and surrounding glaciers. In a special moment reserved for private flights (while group tours offer a flyover), the pilot makes a gentle landing at the base of the rugged Kalapathar hill—an ideal spot to snap breathtaking photos or simply absorb the magnificence of one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks.

During the tour, the helicopter will also touch down at other iconic viewpoints in the Everest region, such as near the Everest Base Camp and the Everest View Hotel, where you can enjoy morning refreshments. Step out to breathe in the crisp, high-altitude air, feel the chill of the mountains, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of your surroundings.

As the helicopter returns to Kathmandu, you’ll have a moment to reflect on an extraordinary experience—not only witnessing the grandeur of the Himalayas and coming face-to-face with Mount Everest but also gaining a deeper appreciation for Nepal’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Our Everest Helicopter Tour package features seasoned pilots who double as knowledgeable guides, providing insightful commentary and ensuring your utmost comfort and safety. Every helicopter in our fleet is meticulously maintained and meets international safety standards.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler searching for a new adventure or a nature enthusiast eager to see the world’s highest peak up close, our Everest Helicopter Tour is the perfect choice. Join us on this remarkable journey to Everest Base Camp and let the majestic beauty of the Himalayas and Nepal’s natural wonders captivate your heart.

THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE MOUNT EVEREST FLIGHT TOUR WITH LANDING FROM KATHMANDU:
This enchanting helicopter tour combines the thrill of flight with the opportunity to land at some of the most breathtaking scenic viewpoints, making for an experience that is as enjoyable as it is mesmerizing—soaring above stunning landscapes under the clear blue Himalayan sky.

05:50 AM – Transfer from Hotel to Kathmandu Airport Helipad (Elevation: 1,300 m)
Your Adventure Pilgrims Trekking guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the helipad. Before leaving, be sure to dress warmly—think jackets, gloves, trousers, and sunglasses. Bring along water, light snacks, dry foods, and any regular medication (keep these in your handbag). You’re welcome to pack a breakfast if you prefer. The drive to the airport takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Please remember: flammable items are not allowed on the helicopter.

06:15 AM – Check-In at the Helicopter Counter
At the helipad, you’ll undergo a brief check-up and pass through an X-ray machine. The Adventure Pilgrims Trekking team will ask to see a copy of your passport and will check your body weight—a crucial detail for ensuring a safe landing near the world’s tallest mountain. After you receive your boarding pass and complete security, you may need to wait in the main lounge until your flight is announced.

Once it’s time to proceed, you’ll move to the helipad where the weather conditions for the Everest Base Camp flight are confirmed and permission is secured from the airport tower. The pilot will then give you a comprehensive safety briefing. You’ll learn how to operate the doors and the proper way to board and exit the helicopter—always using the front, and never the tail. At high altitudes, the engines remain on while seating arrangements might be adjusted to offer everyone the best views; if you require oxygen, simply ask the pilot for emergency assistance.

06:40 AM – Flight to Lukla Airport by Helicopter (Elevation: 2,800 m / 9,000 ft)
Once air traffic control gives clearance based on favorable weather conditions, you’ll lift off toward the east. On a clear day, you might catch glimpses of Mt. Manaslu in the far west, along with panoramic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Dorje Lakpa. More than just a view of Everest, the flight offers an expansive panorama of Himalayan peaks, rolling green hills, and ancient, multi-generational farm terraces.

The helicopter soars over dense forests of rhododendrons, pines, and fir trees, with clusters of farm villages dotting the landscape. After approximately 15 minutes, the chopper continues eastward, treating you to spectacular views of Mt. Gaurishankar and the Melung-Tse peaks, which mark the border between Nepal and Tibet. Passing the high ridge of Lamjura-La at 3,500 m (11,000 ft) even offers a quick, picture-perfect glimpse of Mt. Everest and Lhotse framed by towering peaks.

Finally, the helicopter descends slowly toward Lukla’s Tenzing and Hillary Airport—a unique, mountain airstrip known for its challenging yet smooth landing.

07:40 AM – Fuel Unloading at Lukla Airport (10–12 minutes)
While the pilot and ground crew unload the remaining fuel, take a brief opportunity to refresh and use the restroom. Note that facilities in local hotels, lodges, or public restrooms are usually modest, so it’s a good idea to carry some toilet paper. Enjoy watching the smaller aircraft land and take off—a perfect chance to capture some memorable photos and videos.

Lukla also serves as the starting and finishing point for many extended Everest Base Camp treks. As you’re experiencing the quickest and most scenic route courtesy of Adventure Pilgrims Trekking, feel free to switch seats. However, remember that temperatures drop quickly, so stay bundled up.

07:50 AM – Helicopter Flight Toward Khumbu and Everest Base Camp via the Dudh-Kosi River (Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,000 ft)
After takeoff, follow the meandering Dudh-Kosi River, which originates near the Khumbu Glacier close to Everest Base Camp. Along the way, you’ll fly over villages dotted with lodges and teahouses—popular stops for trekkers and climbers—nestled amid trails lined with rhododendron and pine forests. Shortly after, enjoy a left-side view of Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, and Phortse before the helicopter brings you face-to-face with the grandeur of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

On your left, catch sight of Mt. Cho-Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest peak, along with a view of Tengboche Monastery—the highest and one of the most famous in the region. If you’re lucky, you might even see remnants of the Mani-Rimdu festival, celebrated in late October or early November according to the Tibetan Buddhist lunar calendar. The flight will then pass above Pangboche, arriving at the village of Pheriche (4,200 m / 13,000 ft), where the group may be split to balance a total weight of 250 kg (if there are more than three people).

At Pheriche, some passengers can take their time snapping photos and videos while the rest continue on to Everest Base Camp. The same helicopter shuttles groups back and forth as needed.

08:25 AM – Helicopter Overflight of Everest Base Camp and Kala Patter (Elevation: 5,250 m / 17,225 ft)
Experience a breathtaking flyover of Everest Base Camp and Kala Patter, where you’ll capture stunning photos and videos. The chopper soars above Thukla, with views that include the Cho-La Pass, Lobuche Peak, and the small settlement of Lobuche with its scattered lodges. Later, you’ll glimpse the lofty Mt. Pumori and fly over the Khumbu Glacier, with Gorakshep—the last settlement on the route—coming into view.

During the peak climbing season, you might even witness expeditions setting up tented camps as climbers acclimatize at the base camp. Although there isn’t a designated helipad here (due to the glacier’s movement), the pilot will execute a graceful flyover in accordance with new government guidelines. Enjoy majestic, close-up views of Mount Everest and its neighboring giants—Nuptse, Khumbutse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori—for roughly three unforgettable minutes before the helicopter heads back to Pheriche to reunite with other passengers.

08:45 AM – Flight to Syangboche Hill View-Point – Mt. Everest View Hotel (Elevation: 3,880 m / 12,000 ft)
After completing the shuttle flights, the helicopter will continue toward the Mt. Everest View Hotel at Syangboche hill, where you’ll have the option to relax with breakfast and refreshments. Famously known as “Everest for Breakfast,” the hotel offers an unparalleled dining experience in the shadow of majestic peaks like Ama Dablam and Mt. Everest. With free WiFi available, you can share your experience instantly. Established over 50 years ago by a Japanese visionary enchanted by the view, this luxury hotel is one of the highest in the world. Many trekkers and helicopter passengers alike choose to enjoy their breakfast on the terrace, soaking in the panoramic vistas of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Tawache, and Thamserku.

09:45 AM – Return Flight to Kathmandu (with a Possible Fuel Stop at Lukla)
After about an hour of leisure and refreshments, you’ll board the helicopter once more. The flight will head back to Lukla for a refueling stop before making the journey back to Kathmandu.

11:45 AM – Arrival at Kathmandu Domestic Airport
Upon arrival at the domestic terminal, you’ll be guided to the designated arrival area.

01:15 PM – Transfer Back to Your Hotel
Your Adventure Pilgrims Trekking guide and driver will be waiting at the car park to welcome you back to your hotel. They look forward to hearing your feedback on this incredible Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour—an adventure filled with breathtaking scenery and intimate close-up views of Mt. Everest from the base of the Kalapathar viewpoint. We hope this unforgettable experience has checked off another item on your bucket list!

Included in the Cost