Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu

Trip Facts

  • Duration 1 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Destination Nepal
  • Transportation Private Vehicle and Helicopter Flight
  • Activity Helicopter Sightseeing
  • Best Season Feb- May and Sept- Dec
  • Group Size Mini 3 Max 5 people
  • Trip Start/End Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude 4130m/13,549ft

Highlights

  • Views of Pokhara, the city of lakes and its giant Lakes
  • The Annapurna Himalayan Range - Mt. Annapurna, Fishtail, Himchuli
  • The Annapurna Conservation Area is dotted with oaks and rhododendrons.
  • The dramatic landscape of the Annapurna trekking trail.
  • Enjoy a wonderful landing at 4130m- ABC to explore surrounding Himalayan vistas.
  • Pyramid summits surround the giant boulders of the Himalayas in this amphitheatre-like land.
  • The remote countryside is dotted with ethnic settlements.
  • Glaciers and mountain lodges
  • Explore and take photos for 30 minutes on the ground
  • ABC: One of the top trekking destinations in the World

Annapurna Helicopter Tour with Landing is the fastest way to get the best view of the Annapurna Region. This is a great option for those who are older, have children, or can't do long hikes but still want to spend their holiday near Mt. Annapurna (8091 meters tall).

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu is the easiest way to reach base camp. The two-hour flight significantly reduces the traditional eight-day trek to and from the Annapurna base camp. You can still choose to walk around this landmark. The helicopter still offers a unique perspective, allowing you to view the base camp at its best. Enjoy the panoramic view of the base camp from above. Spend 15-30 minutes admiring stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains after landing at Annapurna Base Camp. This Helicopter tour explores the cultures and traditions of Gurungs and Magars who live in the Himalayan Region.

This Annapurna Helicopter One-Day Tour allows you to see the high mountains without having to commit to a seven or eight-day trek. All ages can enjoy this ABC heli-tour. The mesmerizing views will leave you breathless. You can see the mountains up close to the helicopter. Adventure Club Trek will help you with your trip to Nepal, whether for a business trip or a vacation. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a helicopter ride.

Adventure Club Trek organizes Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter tours with a customized schedule and trip plan. Except for Kathmandu, we also operate ABC helicopter tours from Pokhara on a group joining basis, especially in Spring and autumn, which is a great opportunity for individual travelers with budget trip costs. Besides this, if you are looking for further excellent trips, the EBC Helicopter Trek 7 days and Muktinath Helicopter Tour might be great trips to explore further.

The thrilling Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalayas, their surrounding areas, and the Annapurna Himalayas during the flight. Adventure seekers who want to experience the beauty of ABC but cannot manage a long trek for a week will be able to take advantage of the helicopter ride. This is available from Kathmandu or Pokhara. This trip gives you the chance to see the Himalayas and Mt Annapurna (the 10th highest peak in the World) from the air, as well as landing at the 4130-meter altitude of Annapurna Base Camp.

It takes around 2 hours for a round trip to fly by helicopter from Kathmandu to Annapurna base camp to Kathmandu. The time may be extended by a wonderful breakfast at ABC. This direct flight allows you to see the Himalayan views, including the Langtang range, Ganesh Himal range, and Annapurna Chain as you fly to the Annapurna base camp.

Adventure Club Trek offers Annapurna Helicopter Tours with a custom-made schedule and itinerary. We also offer ABC helicopter tours in Pokhara on a group-joining basis. This is especially true during Spring and Autumn when individual travelers can enjoy a budget-friendly trip. If you're looking for more excellent trips, we recommend the EBC Helicopter Tour and Muktinath Helicopter Tour.

How much does the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour?

The price depends on the package you pick. There are two options: the ABC Helicopter Tour from Pokhara and the ABC Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu. If you want the tour from Kathmandu, you need a group of 5 people; otherwise, you have to charter a helicopter, which costs around USD 4500. If you prefer a private tour, it's USD 450 per person (sharing basis) from Pokhara. Additionally, chartering a helicopter alone costs USD 1950, and the cost per person decreases if there are 5 people in your group.

Note: One Helicopter can carry a maximum of 5 people or 500 kg. You can get a better price if you plan to do an Annapurna base camp tour from Kathmandu by contacting us directly through WhatsApp +977-9851025658 (Birendra)

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour Options 

You can choose to take an ABC helicopter tour in two ways: Either by booking a private charter or by joining a group with other people.

Private Charter Flight


You can fly privately, with a group, or on your schedule. You can also arrange a flight from Pokhara or Kathmandu. The helicopter can take off at any time during the day if conditions are good.

Group Joining ABC Heli Tour

A group can join an Annapurna helicopter trip from Pokhara. We have groups that join helicopter flights at the Pokhara Airport. Five people split the cost of a helicopter trip to ABC. If you would like to be part of the group, please Contact us in advance. We will offer you the best possible deal if there are any group flights available.

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu

From Kathmandu, you can fly to Annapurna Base Camp. The Helicopter flight starts parallel to the airport in Kathmandu and flies to the northern Himalayan Range, then turns east towards Annapurna Base Camp. You will enjoy the breathtaking view of green hills before entering an alpine area where you will see lots of snow. The cost of an Annapurna base camp helicopter tour from Kathmandu is determined by the company that you fly with. Shared or private flights are available depending on your budget.

Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour from Kathmandu Itinerary

5:30 AM: Drive to Kathmandu Airport from Hotel
6:30 AM: Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara Airport
7:30 AM: Helicopter from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp and spend 15 to 30 minutes
9:00 AM: Flight back to Kathmandu from Annapurna Base Camp, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes
10:30 AM: Drop you at Hotel

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour Packing/ Equipment List.

Getting ready for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour can be a bit tricky because you'll be flying to high places, and the weather might change unexpectedly. Here's a simple list of things to pack:

  1. Warm Clothes: Since you'll be going up to high places, it's important to bring warm clothes like a puffy jacket, warm underwear, cozy socks, gloves, and a hat.

  2. Comfy Shoes: Wear comfortable and strong shoes that are good for walking and hiking.

  3. Water Bottle: Bring a water bottle that you can refill to stay hydrated during the tour.

  4. Medicines: If you take any medicines, make sure to bring them. Also, bring medicine for altitude sickness, like Diamox, if your doctor says so.

  5. Snacks: Pack some easy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits to keep your energy up during the tour.

  6. Travel Insurance Papers: Bring a copy of your travel insurance papers just in case of an emergency.

Helicopter model

Among the helicopter models in Nepal, the popular ones that are used for helicopter tours in Nepal include the Airbus products: Eurocopter EC130B4 and Ecureuil, AS 350 B3 E Airbus. The AS350 B3 E Airbus is now known as H125. These are the safest helicopter models, especially those that take off and land in the alpine territory, like Everest Base Camp, Muktinath, and Annapurna Base Camp. The helicopters have a capacity of 3 passengers and 5 passengers, excluding the captain, with an excessive weight of 500 kg.

Here is some helpful information about helicopters. The use of these models will depend on the area and altitude.

1. 9N ANA (AS350B3e)

  • Model: AS350B3e
  • Manufacturer: Airbus, France
  • Engine type: Arriel 2D
  • Passenger capacity: 5 + 1
  • Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2250 KG
  • Maximum Operating Altitude: 23,000 FT

2. 9N ALA (AS350B3e)

  • Model: AS350b3e
  • Manufacturer: Airbus, France
  • Engine Type: Arriel 2D
  • Passenger Capacity: 5 + 1
  • Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2250 KG
  • Maximum Operating Altitude: 23,000 FT

3. 9N-AJD (AS 350 FX II)

  • Model: AS350 FX II
  • Manufacturer: Airbus, France
  • Engine Type: LTS – 101 700D2
  • Passenger Capacity: 5 + 1
  • Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2250 KG
  • Maximum Operating Altitude: 16,000 FT

4. 9N-AFQ (AS 350 FX II)

  • Model: AS350 FX II
  • Manufacturer: Airbus, France
  • Engine Type: LTS – 101 700D2
  • Passenger Capacity: 5 + 1
  • Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2250 KG
  • Maximum Operating Altitude: 16,000 FT

5. 9N-AGU (AS350 BA)

  • Model: AS350 BA
  • Manufacturer: Airbus, France
  • Engine Type: Arriel 1B
  • Passenger Capacity: 5 + 1
  • Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2100 KG
  • Maximum Operating Altitude: 16,000 FT

Itinerary

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5:30 AM: Drive to the Domestic Airport from the Hotel.

We will pick you up early in the morning and transfer you to the domestic airport of Kathmandu by private vehicle.

6:30 AM: Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara Airport

Completing the airport security check, we proceed to the helipad and take a helicopter ride from the domestic airport. The stunning views of the terraced hillsides, Himalayan sceneries of Mount Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and the surroundings can be explored from the eagle eye view. Then it flies over the Annapurna greeneries and enjoys the views of the Mardi Himal trekking trail and mountain lodges. In about an hour's ride, we reach the Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 meters and land.

7:30 AM: Helicopter from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp and spend 15 to 30 minutes

At ABC, we explore the dynamic alpine vistas. The total ground time will be 30-40 minutes. The miraculous summits of Mt. Annapurna range and Tent Peak shine outstandingly. Standing at the viewpoint, you will be surrounded by giant boulders from three directions. Even the enchanting setting offers a remarkable experience of the glacier, rocky landscape, and mountain lodges. Then we have a yummy breakfast at ABC and prepare for departure.

9:00 AM: Flight back to Kathmandu from Annapurna Base Camp, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes

It's time to fly back to Kathmandu from ABC, flying above the Annapurna region and the middle hill ranges taking great snaps from the helicopter. It's about an hour's trip, and we land.

10:30 AM: Drop you at Hotel

We will receive you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.

    Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern while traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary, but we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline, and illness or injury can occur. To avoid dangerous situations, we may occasionally change the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That has been said, and Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

    Cost Details

    Price Includes

    • Arrival and Departure transfer by private tourist vehicle. 
    • Seating arrangements for up to a maximum of 5 people
    • Airport Boarding Pass
    • Oxygen Cylinder in case of emergency with Medical kits
    • Two-hour charter helicopter service, including 30 30-minute breaks at Annapurna Base Camp
    • Company service charge
    • All Government and Local taxes and paper words 

     

    Price Excludes

    • Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days and USD 50 for 30 days)
    • Accommodation in Kathmandu
    • Medical and life insurance.
    • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the cost included section.

    Useful Info

    Weather and Climate

    Weather conditions remain clear and visible around Annapurna Base Camp in the morning throughout the year, except for some monsoon days. Rests of the seasons are suitable for the helicopter tour to ABC, allowed with the clear weather status. The weather and climate status change according to seasonal variations.

    Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour in Spring Season

    Spring (March, April, and May) is an amazing season in the Annapurna region, with clear weather and stunning wildflowers. You fly above the rhododendron woods of Annapurna Conservation Area, which look incredible. The weather allows eye-catching Himalayan vistas. The temperature at ABC remains cool in the morning (0-5 degrees Celsius), but it rises around 15-20 degrees Celsius during the day.

    Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour in Autumn Season

    Autumn (September, October, and November) is the most suitable time for the ABC helicopter tour. The weather remains a bit cloudy and rainy till mid-September, and after that, splendid weather allows for great Himalayan scenery. The morning weather at ABC gets down to the freezing point. However, the daytime is warm at 20-22 degrees Celsius. There is the least probability of getting views obstructed by clouds. You may select October-November for delighting Himalayan sceneries with an ABC helicopter tour.

    Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour in Winter Season

    It may not sound well to be in the Himalayan terrain, but it's incredible in the case of the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. December and January allow wonderful weather of around 10 degrees during the day at ABC and up to -10 degrees at night. From mid-December till mid-February, in the base camp area and up to the elevation of 4000 meters, the entire landscape remains snowy. Likewise, the snow-capped Himalayas appear more delightful in winter with the heap of snow. You must wear more woolen products and a down jacket in winter. The only challenge of ABC helicopter tours in winter is that the weather may change rapidly, which causes flight cancellations.

    Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour in Summer Season

    Summer is not a good season for the helicopter tour to Annapurna base camp. It is a rainy season in Nepal, and rainfall is a very common topic. The Annapurna region itself is known as the most rainfall zone in Nepal. However, after the rainfall, the clear weather allows for great views, and if you are in Pokhara during the monsoon, you may benefit from this type of opportunity.

    Travel Insurance for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter tour

    It is important to have travel insurance for any trip. This includes the Helicopter Ride from Annapurna Base Camp. Travel insurance provides financial protection against unforeseen events, such as medical emergencies, flight delays, or loss of personal items. The following are details on travel insurance for the Heli tour to Annapurna base camp:

    Medical Insurance:

    Annapurna Base Camp's high altitude, remote location, and isolation may increase the risk of altitude sickness and other medical emergencies. Travel insurance should cover medical costs, including emergency evacuations and repatriations. Insurance should cover any pre-existing conditions.

    Trip Cancellation/Interruption:

    Annapurna base camp by helicopter may be affected due to unforeseen events, such as bad weather or flight cancellations. Travel insurance will cover cancellations or interruptions of trips, including non-refundable costs such as hotel rooms, flights, and tour fees.

    What are the Helicopter Models Used for Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Flight?

    Adventure Club Treks and Expedition has offered unique helicopter tours to various destinations for over a decade. All the trips are safe and operated with timely serviced helicopters of multiple models.

    Different helicopter models are used for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. They are well-maintained, reliable, and offer safe Himalayan journeys. With the rules of the Nepal government, the helicopters can carry five passengers at once, so there will be six people maximum at once, including captains.

    Model: AS350B3e is used, which has been manufactured by Airbus, France. It has got an Ariel 2D engine type. The maximum takeoff weight is 2250 KG, with a passenger capacity excluding the captain, which can operate at a maximum altitude of 23000 feet.

    Model: AS350 FX II is another type of helicopter built by Airbus, France. It has got an LTS–101 700D2 engine type. The maximum takeoff weight is 2250 KG, with a passenger capacity excluding the captain, which can operate at a maximum altitude of 23000 feet.

    Model: AS350 BA, which Airbus, France, has built, has got Ariel 1B engine type. The maximum takeoff weight is 2100 KG, with a passenger capacity excluding the captain, which can operate at a maximum altitude of 16,000 feet.

    How to Deal with Altitude Sickness?

    High altitude sickness is a disorder that people might feel above 3000 meters. It is directly connected to altitude adaptation, which makes people have difficulty breathing. Altitude sickness is also called Acute Mountain Sickness.

    The ultimate altitude of Annapurna Base Camp is 4130 meters, which is not a risky zone for getting caught in altitude sickness. It's very unlikely to be suffering from AMS. However, you may experience it accidentally once you get out of the helicopter. Mild headache and dizziness can be the common symptoms you feel at ABC. Initially, you will be given oxygen support in the helicopter, as oxygen cylinders will be in every helicopter. If it's risky, flying back to the lower altitude is another best way.

    You will get a maximum of half an hour of landing time at the Annapurna base camp. You walk around and get abundant miraculous glimpses of the mighty Himalayan peaks like Mt. Annapurna.

    What are the essential Safety Measures for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour?

    There are some sorts of essential safety measures for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. It starts from entering the aircraft, where you should follow the captain's instructions, and also at the exit.

    • If you are in a group, do not move from your place during the flight or exchange your seats with other travelers
    • You should not put your hands or head out of the window and do remember to keep your belongings safe.
    • Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the helicopter, and it's very sensible
    • Please remember to tighten your seat belt properly.
    • If you feel any breathing problems or dizziness, tell your captain about it.
    •  

    Aftermath of COVID-19,

    • Helicopters are sanitized properly in all corners with spray
    • You should follow the safety instructions like wearing a mask, gloves
    • Test your temperature before flying

    FAQs

    • Q1. How long is the Heli Ride from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp?

      The helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp takes about an hour (50 minutes) one way.

    • The straight distance from Pokhara (822 meters) to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 meters) is about 37 aeronautical miles.

    • A chopper takes a maximum of 5 people, except the captain.

    • Annapurna Base Camp is located at 4130 meters altitude, being surrounded by the giant Himalayan boulders from three directions. The altitude of Annapurna Peaks includes- Mt. Annapurna (8091m/26545.28ft), Mt. Fishtail (6999m/22962 ft), and Mt. Annapurna South (7219m/23684 ft).

    • There will be a single pilot in one helicopter, who flies with a great experience.

    • Yes, absolutely. We stop at ABC, take a walking tour around, explore the majestic views of the Himalayan and surrounding landscape and have a cup of tea/coffee. We also have breakfast at ABC on Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour.

    • The ground time is given a maximum of 30 minutes at ABC.

    • The usual itinerary allows the landing only at Annapurna Base Camp. However, in a private charter flight, we can customize the itinerary with another stop in an ethnic community somewhere by adding extra cost. Annapurna region is dominated by various unique Gurung villages, which can be our preference that allows exploration of the ethnic culture.

    • Not exceeding an hour, by covering the extra cost, the helicopter can stop in an interesting village of the Annapurna region on the route or nearby. But, it depends on weather conditions.

    • Gurung people belong to one of the ethnic tribes of Nepal, who populate mostly the middle hill range. Annapurna region is dominated by the Gurung people, who have their unique lifestyles, customs, garments, festivals and celebrations. They are traditions loving people, who follow animal husbandry profession and hospitality industry. Gurung people have marked their bravery in British Gurkha, therefore they are taken as brave Gurkhas.

    • Yes, we do land at Annapurna base camp and enjoy cup of warm coffee and other refreshment overlooking fantastic views of surrounding high mountains.

    • Annapurna base camp stands at the height of 4,130 m located just beneath towering East Face of main Mt. Annapurna I which is at 8,091 m and 26,545 ft high, the first 8,000 m ever climbed by French Expeditions in June 03rd 1950 even before Mt. Everest was climbed three years later in 1953.

    • Every flight had a weight limit. Annapurna base camp helicopter tour had a weight limit. Normally in this commercial flight tour 5 people per helicopter. 100kg/person is the average weight for the Annapurna base camp. And the total capacity of a helicopter is 500kg. If there will be hard to manage weight you will need to take an extra shuttle for the Annapurna base camp helicopter tour.

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