Best Helicopter Tours in Nepal

May 25, 2023 16 Minutes
Best Helicopter Tours in Nepal

Nepal is a captivating country with incredible mountains and alluring stories. It attracts adventurers and dreamers from all over the world. The towering peaks of the Himalayas create a stunning backdrop that inspires awe and wonder. In this breathtaking land,

There is a unique way to experience its beauty: helicopter tours. From the legendary Everest Base Camp to the hidden valleys of Upper Mustang, these helicopter tours in Nepal are designed to immerse you in the raw beauty of this enchanting country. Gone are the days of exhausting treks and aching muscles. Now you can witness the grandeur of the Himalayas with minimal effort, allowing you to embrace the sheer magnificence of Nepal in all its glory.

Top Reasons to Choose Helicopter Tours in Nepal

There are several compelling reasons why you should choose helicopter tours in Nepal:

  1. Unparalleled Views
    Nepal is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, including the mighty Himalayas. Helicopter tours provide a unique opportunity to witness these majestic peaks, deep valleys, and pristine lakes from an aerial perspective. The panoramic views offered during these heli rides are truly unparalleled and allow you to soak in the breathtaking beauty of Nepal's natural wonders.

2. Time Efficiency
While trekking is a popular way to explore Nepal, it can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Helicopter tours offer a convenient alternative, allowing you to cover vast distances in a relatively short time. This time efficiency means you can experience multiple destinations and landmarks in a single tour, maximizing your overall exploration of the country.

3. Access to Remote Locations
Nepal is home to numerous remote and isolated regions that are difficult to reach by road or on foot. Helicopter tours provide access to these hidden gems, such as the Upper Mustang region, where ancient traditions and stunning landscapes await. Flying over these remote areas offers a rare glimpse into their untouched beauty and cultural heritage.

4. Safety and Comfort
Helicopter tours in Nepal are conducted by experienced pilots and reputable operators who prioritize safety. You can enjoy the adventure with peace of mind, knowing that you're in the hands of professionals. Additionally, helicopters provide a comfortable and stable platform for sightseeing, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

5. Unique Experiences
Helicopter tours offer a range of unique experiences that go beyond sightseeing. For instance, landing at Everest Base Camp allows travelers to stand at the base of the world's highest peak. Similarly, landing at remote villages or monasteries allows you to dive into the indigenous culture and interact with the communities that call these places home.

6. Flexibility and Customization
Helicopter tours in Nepal can be tailored to suit individual preferences and interests. Whether you seek an adrenaline-pumping flight over the majestic peaks, cultural immersion in remote villages, or a combination of both, helicopter tours can be customized to create a personalized and unforgettable experience.

6 Best Helicopter Tours in Nepal

Here's a curated list of the best helicopter tours in Nepal that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the country's most breathtaking landscapes.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour with Landing

Helicopter Landed at Lobuche While flying to Everest Base Camp

Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Everest region with the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour with Landing. This thrilling adventure offers a unique opportunity to witness the world's highest peak and its surrounding majestic mountains. It is a shorter and more convenient alternative, allowing you to experience the magnificence of the Himalayas from an aerial perspective.


Landing Route to Everest Base Camp
The chartered helicopter will fly from Kathmandu to the world’s most thrilling airport, Lukla Airport. The travelers will stop by Lukla for 10-15 minutes to experience stunning landscapes and enjoy the first taste of Himalayan air. After that, the flight will land at Pheriche for a short duration and then move forward to Kalapatthar, the best viewpoint in the Everest region. Here, we can enjoy the panoramic vista of the world’s highest mountains and fly back to Pheriche.

We will further fly towards Syangboche from Pheriche, which is our main destination for the tour. Here, the chopper will stop by for 45 minutes to an hour depending on the favorable weather conditions. Similarly, there also is an alternative of flying to Kongde instead of Syangboche, but this alternative is comparatively costlier.

We will then fly back to Lukla for re-fueling the helicopter and then fly further to Kathmandu ending our 4-hour trip to the world’s highest mountain and surrounding.

NOTE: The other places in the Khumbu region, apart from the ones mentioned above can be added to the landing route. However, this customization requires additional cost and is only applicable to helicopter-permitting destinations.

Major Highlights
A. Soar above picturesque Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, immersing yourself in their rich cultural heritage.
B. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and other towering peaks as you fly over the Everest region.
C. Land at Everest Base Camp, standing at the foot of the mighty mountain, and savor the serenity and beauty of the surroundings.
D. Capture stunning photographs of the iconic Khumbu Glacier and the dramatic landscape that define the Everest region.

Best Time for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for EBC Helicopter Tour. Spring falls from March to May in Nepal and during this time of the year, the rhododendron forest is in full bloom covering the entire forest with all shades of crimson. Autumn falls from mid of September to the beginning of December in Nepal. Since Autumn occurs post-monsoon here, the weather is very pleasant and the hills are lush green and vibrant.

2.Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to the heart of the Annapurna region with the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. This scenic flight takes you to the base of the majestic Annapurna massif, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and charming Gurung villages. This short heli ride allows you to witness the splendor of the Annapurna massif and its surrounding in a short time frame. It is an ideal option for those seeking a convenient and thrilling way to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region without trekking for several days.

Landing Route to Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter
The Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour usually starts from Kathmandu to Pokhara. However, during the peak season, there is also the availability of flights directly from Pokhara.

The tour begins with a scenic flight from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp enjoying the aerial view of majestic landscape. The chopper will stop by the base camp for 1 and a half hours where the travelers can stroll around the surrounding and enjoy breakfast overlooking the Annapurna range.

After enjoying our time in the base camp, we will move towards Pokhara overflying the Machhapuchhare Base Camp, Deurali, Chhomrong, and Mardi Himal/Ghorepani. This trip is a total of 2 hours.

NOTE: If the weather conditions and the budget of the travelers permit, we can include a stop-by at Machhapuchhare Base Camp at an additional cost. This allows the travelers to enjoy the sublime view of Mt. Machhapuchhare and the unique landscape as well as encounter locals and their culture.

Major Highlights
A. Soar above the Annapurna Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site well-known for its diverse flora and fauna.
B. Marvel at the panoramic vistas of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri, among other iconic Himalayan peaks.
C. Land at Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering mountains, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the sanctuary.
D. Enjoy a bird's eye view of the traditional villages of Ghandruk and Chhomrong.
E. Capture mesmerizing photographs of cascading waterfalls, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests that adorn the Annapurna region

Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Flight

This helicopter tour can be done all around the year if the weather is favorable. But spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to the beginning of December) is the best time for this trip. The weather is very pleasant offering you a wonderful opportunity to witness a perfect blue sky and a clear view of the mountains as well as the landscape.

3. Upper Mustang Helicopter Flight

Upper Mustang Helicopter Flight provides a rare opportunity to explore Nepal's secluded and restricted Upper Mustang region. This extraordinary flight takes you to a hidden kingdom, showcasing its ancient heritage, barren landscape, and fascinating Tibetan-influenced culture. With its otherworldly landscapes and ancient cultural treasures, this heli tour is a remarkable adventure for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Landing Route to Upper Mustang by Helicopter
The chartered helicopter tour to Upper Mustang usually begins with a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. But the alternative of starting the trip from Pokhara is available during the peak season.

The 4-hour trip to the ‘valley beyond the Himalayas’ indulges a thrilling and majestic flight to Tsarang from Pokhara. The chopper stops by Tsarang for a short duration where the travelers can witness the famous Tsarang monastery as well as the ancient village with authentic Tibetan culture.

After that, we will fly towards our main destination i.e. Lo Manthang. Here, the travelers will stroll around this hidden gem perceiving thousands of years old caves, monasteries, and civilizations based on ancient Tibetan and Bon religion and culture. After this magical experience, we will fly back to Pokhara overlooking Kaligandaki, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges.

For the travelers starting at Kathmandu, we will stop by Pokhara for re-fueling and then fly back to Kathmandu.

NOTE: Further landing places like Gheling/Ghyakar, Ghar Gumba, and Muktinath Temple can be included in this helicopter tour as per the interest of the travelers at an additional cost.

Major Highlights
A. Soar above the arid and windswept landscapes of Upper Mustang, resembling the Tibetan plateau, with its unique rock formations and dramatic cliffs.
B. Explore the medieval walled city of Lo Manthang, a cultural and historical treasure with ancient monasteries, whitewashed houses, and intricate murals.
C. Witness the captivating beauty of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest gorge, as you hover above its rugged terrain.
D. Experience the tranquility and spirituality of the remote villages of Upper Mustang, where traditions have been preserved for centuries.
E. As you traverse the region, capture breathtaking photographs of the panoramic Himalayan views, including Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.

Best Time for Upper Mustang Heli Tour

The best time to visit Upper Mustang via helicopter is during summer, spring, and fall. In Nepal, spring takes place from March to May, summer falls from June to September, and autumn is from mid-September to the beginning of December. Since Upper Mustang falls in a rain-shadow area, it does not experience Monsoon so summer is the ideal time for this trip.

Similarly, the famous Tiji festival falls in May so travelers could travel during this time to experience this vibrant festival. Likewise, autumn has very pleasant weather so is very idyllic.

4.Muktinath Helicopter Tour

Muktinath Helicopter Tour is perfect for those seeking a spiritual and scenic experience. It allows you to visit the revered Muktinath Temple and witness the natural beauty of the Annapurna region in a shorter time frame, making it a convenient option for travelers with limited time or physical constraints.

Landing Route for Muktinath Temple by Helicopter
The Muktinath Helicopter Tour usually starts from Kathmandu to Pokhara. However, during the peak season, there is also the availability of flights directly from Pokhara.

The travelers will fly enjoying an aerial view of the snow-capped Himalayas including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range, lush green forest, terraced fields, beautiful scenery, water resources, villages, and cities. We will stop by Jomsom Airport for refueling and enjoy a thrilling flight to the holy Muktinath Temple.

The travelers will visit the temple for darshan and aarti, as well as the Buddha shrines and monasteries. Similarly, we will stroll around the surroundings and return to Pokhara overflying Muktinath, Kagbeni, Ghorepani, Poonhill, Marpha town, Jomsom, Rupa Tal, Begnas Tal, Phewa Lake, Rupse waterfall, kaligandaki George, and the beautiful Himalayas.

NOTE: If the weather conditions and the budget of the travelers permit, we can include a stop-by at Marpha Village and Jomsom to stroll around the area at an additional cost. This allows travelers to enjoy the awe-inspiring view of the unique landscape as well as encounter locals and their culture.

Best Time for Muktinath Temple by Helicopter

The best time to visit the Muktinath Temple via helicopter is all throughout the year. However, the most suitable time would be spring (March to May), summer (June to September), and autumn (mid-September to mid-December). The weather during these times of the year is very pleasant and one can experience majestic view of Himalayas and clear blue sky.

Major Highlights
A. Soar above the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and terraced fields.
B. Land at Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site known for its 108 water sprouts and the eternal flame that burns naturally.
C. Explore the ancient Muktinath Temple, where devotees gather to seek blessings and perform religious rituals.
D. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Muktinath, surrounded by stunning Himalayan vistas and serene landscapes.
E. As you hover over the region, capture awe-inspiring photographs of the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

5.Rara Lake Helicopter Tour

The Rara Lake Helicopter Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural splendor of Rara Lake in a short time. This heli tour is a captivating aerial adventure to the pristine Rara Lake in the breathtaking Rara National Park. It is an ideal choice for those seeking an easy and scenic experience in the remote and unspoiled landscapes of western Nepal.

Landing Route to Rara lake Nepal by Helicopter

The Rara Lake Helicopter Tour begins with a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj enjoying breathtaking views of unique landscapes, villages, towns, waterfalls, rivers, and beautiful wonders of nature.

After a short pause in the Nepalgunj airport for refueling, we will begin an adventurous flight to our destination, Rara Lake. We will fly to witness the change in landscape, and vibrant villages, and enjoy Himalayan vistas. After reaching Rara Lake, we will be spellbound by its natural beauty. The travelers will stroll around the surrounding and enjoy a hearty breakfast overlooking the majestic beauty of Rara Lake.

After this, we will fly back to Nepalgunj for re-fueling and then fly back to Kathmandu ending our hour’s trip filled with amazing memories.

Best Time for Rara Lake to Fly by Helicopter

The spring season (March-May) and the autumn season (mid-September-beginning of December) are the most ideal seasons to visit Rara Lake. The weather is very warm and pleasant offering the best crystal-clear view of the lake and the surrounding. The hills are filled with crimson Rhododendrons and several other varieties of beautiful flowers in spring. And during autumn, the amber hues will make your entire trip spellbinding.

Major Highlights
A. Fly above the lush landscapes of western Nepal, with panoramic views of rolling hills, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks.
B. Land near the crystal-clear waters of Rara Lake, known for its mesmerizing turquoise color and serene ambiance.
C. Explore the tranquil surroundings of Rara Lake, surrounded by dense pine forests and picturesque meadows.
D. Discover the diverse wildlife and bird species that inhabit Rara National Park, including endangered animals like red pandas.
E. Capture breathtaking photographs of the pristine beauty of Rara Lake with its mirror-lie reflections of the surrounding mountains.

6.Gosaikunda Lake Helicopter Tour

Venture into a thrilling experience in the holy lake of Gosaikunda with the Gosaikunda Lake Helicopter Tour. This helicopter ride takes you to the Langtang Region located north of Kathmandu Valley and very close to the Tibetan border. Here, you can enjoy the majestic view of Gosaikunda and some of the 108 holy Kunda (lakes). This is a perfect trip for the ones that wish to relish in the beautiful landscape by skipping the long trekking route.

Landing Route for Helicopter to Gosainkunda

The 3 hours trip to Gosaikunda begins with a pleasing flight from Kathmandu to Gosaikunda Lake where one can perceive the aerial view of lush green forest, spectacular lakes, beautiful valleys, and sublime view of Langtang Range, Dhaulagiri Range, and Ganesh Himal.

After strolling around the area, interacting with locals, and enjoying your time there, we will fly back to Kathmandu overseeing the mesmerizing view of Gosaikunda and other holy lakes, dense rhododendron and bamboo forest, and local towns like Kutumsung, Mangengoth, Thadepati, Syabrubesi, Dhunche and so on.

Best Time to do Helicopter Flight in Gosainkunda

The Gosaikunda Lake helicopter tour can be done all around the year but the best time has to be during spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to the beginning of December). During these months, the weather is fantastic making the travelers able to witness crystal-clear lakes, beautiful green landscapes, and clear blue skies.

For the Hindu pilgrims, July/August could also be the most perfect time for this trip because the big carnival takes place during the time of Janai Purnima. This could also be a nice opportunity for non-pilgrims as well to experience this vibrant festival.

Major Highlights
A. Experience the breathtaking beauty of pristine Gokaikunda Lake
B. Relish in the tranquility of the remote beauty of Nepal
C. Interact with the locals and experience their unique culture and traditions
D. Experience the lively carnival of Janai Purnima
E. Explore the 108 holy Kunda located nearby
F. Fly over the picturesque landscape and mesmerizing lakes
G. Encounter with the wildlife of Langtang National Park

Final Say
In conclusion, helicopter tours in Nepal offer a gateway to breathtaking adventures and unrivaled beauty. Whether you see the majesty of Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp's serenity, Upper Mustang's mystique, or the pristine allure of Rara Lake and Gosaikunda Lake, each heli ride promises a unique and unforgettable experience.

By choosing the best helicopter tour in Nepal, you can soar above the clouds, embrace the sky, and witness nature's grandest masterpieces with ease and comfort. These tours provide a convenient alternative to trekking, allowing you to maximize your time and witness multiple destinations in a single journey.

For more details and to embark on your dream helicopter tour in Nepal, please contact us. Our team of experts will assist you in crafting a personalized itinerary that suits your preferences, ensuring a truly remarkable and seamless experience.

© 2024 Himalayan Trekkers. All rights reserved.