Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Published On : 5th Oct, 2024 By Himalayan Dream Team

Is it a dream to fly over the mighty Himalayas, landing at the foot of the world's highest mountain without investing time in trekking? Everest Base Camp Helicopter Flight is a lifetime adventure that offers great views of Mt. Everest, the Khumbu Glacier, and surrounding peaks. You can even have this fantastic journey on a budget! In this blog, we show you the cheapest helicopter flights to Everest Base Camp, how to find a better deal, and what to expect during your once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Table of Content

Highlights of Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour:

Helicopter landing at Everest View Hotel for breakfast with stunning panoramic views
Fly over Everest, including Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar, Chola Pass, and Gokyo
Experience the beauty of Everest via helicopter in a short time frame
Landings at Lukla and Everest View Hotel for added experiences
Scenic helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp with incredible mountain vistas
Enjoy breathtaking views of alpine forests, rhododendron, pine trees, Khumbu Icefall, and glaciers
100% full refund guarantee if the flight is canceled due to bad weather
Easy and secure online booking system for hassle-free reservations
Lowest price guarantee for your Everest helicopter tour
Experience Everest in a single day with a comprehensive helicopter tour
Scenic helicopter flight over the world’s highest mountain range
Direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp for an unforgettable journey

Why Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is ideal for those who have very limited time or are unable to trek the traditional route but still want to see the grandeur of mighty Mount Everest. While trekking to Everest Base Camp may take as long as two weeks, flying by helicopter only takes a few hours to reach this place and allow the sightseeing of magnificent landscapes from a bird's-eye view. During this flight, you will fly over iconic places, including Namche Bazaar, Lukla, and Tengboche Monastery, with a short stop at Everest Base Camp itself.

A time-saving but rather comfortable and less exhausting way of visiting Everest is a helicopter tour. Whether you are an active fan of adventures or just looking for something really new, here is just the way to consider getting closer to the legendary mountain.

How to Find the Cheapest Helicopter Flight to Everest Base Camp

While most take helicopter tours to Everest Base Camp as a luxury, there are definitely ways to make it cheaper. The secret to getting the cheapest helicopter flight is sharing. Many tour operators offer shared flights, enabling you to split the cost with other travelers and hence bring down the price per head. Shared flights work perfectly for solo travelers and even those traveling as couples on a budget.

Save for the money booked during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring. These are times when the number of tourists is minimal. Not only does this cut the price, but one can have a rather quiet time at Everest Base Camp. Many tour operators give cheap rates during these periods, and you will find it ideal for booking this helicopter tour.

What to Expect on Your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Your helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp from Kathmandu or Lukla starts with either of the cities, depending on the selected package. Those starting off in Kathmandu are taken on a scenic flight over the lush hills and valleys of Nepal, stopping at Lukla for refueling or to pick up additional passengers, if needed. From here, you ascend into the Himalayas, where every glimpse will reveal the Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest in full glory.

A brief landing will be made at Kala Patthar, the highest available viewpoint for close-up views of Mt. Everest, at 5,545 meters. You get around 10 to 15 minutes to click pictures and enjoy the views before the effects of the high altitude start setting in. This stoppage lets you catch a glimpse of the beauty of Everest while minimizing the risks of altitude sickness.

After the stop at Kala Patthar, the helicopter drops down again to Everest Base Camp, from where you can take a short walk around the campsite and really feel the true spirit of the climbers who are preparing for their summit of Everest. The return flight sees more of the fabulous landscapes in the Everest region, landing safely back in Kathmandu or Lukla.

Average Cost of the Cheapest Helicopter Flight to Everest Base Camp

These helicopter flights to Everest Base Camp have varying prices depending on the provider and the time of year, although generally, the cheapest helicopter flights are in the range of $1200 to $1,600 per person for a shared flight. Private charters of the helicopter may cost up to 5,000-7,000 dollars, but this shared option makes the above experience much more viable.

Everest Helicopter Tour Price for 2024 and 2025

This helicopter flight cost is updated in March 2024 for March, April, and May 2024, based on the latest increase in price and compulsory VAT.

S. No	From	To	Cost	Group Size
1	Kathmandu	Lukla	US$ 500	1 Person
2	Lukla	Namche	USD 700	5 Persons
3	Lukla	Syangboche	USD 750	5 Persons
4	Lukla	Gorakshep	USD 2200	4 Persons
5	Lukla	Kalapathar	USD 2000	3 Persons
6	Lukla	Gokyo Lake	USD 2800	4 Persons
7	Kathmandu	Everest Base Camp	USD 1199	Per Person
8	Kathmandu	EBC Kalapathar	USD 4800	1-2 Persons
9	Kathmandu	Kalapathar	USD 5100	5 Persons
10	Gorakshep	Kathmandu	USD 3000	2 Persons
11	Gorakshep	Kathmandu	USD 1300	Per Person

Best Time for Everest Helicopter Tour

Season	Months	Weather Conditions	Why It's the Best Time
Spring	March - May	Clear skies, mild temperatures	Ideal weather for clear mountain views and comfortable flying conditions
Autumn	September - November	Dry, cool, and clear weather	Best for stunning visibility and stable weather for helicopter tours
Winter	December - February	Cold but mostly clear skies	Less crowded and offers great visibility of snow-covered landscapes
Monsoon	June - August	Heavy rain and cloudy skies	Not recommended due to poor visibility and unpredictable weather

Everest Base Camp Private Helicopter Tour Cost for 2024 and 2025

Group Size	Private Helicopter Tour Cost
1 to 2 pax	USD 5000
1 to 5 pax	USD 5600

What to Expect During Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour with Landing at Everest View Hotel

Time	Activity	Details
6:00 AM	Drive to Kathmandu Domestic Airport	Your day starts with a drive to the domestic airport in Kathmandu for an exciting helicopter adventure.
6:30 AM	Check-In and Boarding Process	Complete check-in and boarding process. Ensure you have your passport for security checks.
7:30 AM	Helicopter Departure	Take off from Kathmandu in a 350 B3 helicopter, starting your journey towards Everest Base Camp.
8:15 AM	Short Stop at Lukla	Land at Lukla for about 10 minutes, allowing for a quick break before continuing the flight.
8:30 AM	Fly to Pheriche (4200 meters)	At Pheriche, if the group consists of 4-5 passengers, the group will split due to altitude restrictions (max 3 passengers above 4200 meters).
9:00 AM	Land at Kalapathar Helipad (5400 meters)	Enjoy a quick stop at Kalapathar for stunning views, photos, and videos of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
9:30 AM	Breakfast at Everest View Hotel	Fly to Everest View Hotel, take photos, and enjoy breakfast while absorbing breathtaking views of Everest.
10:30 AM	Return to Lukla	After breakfast, fly to Lukla for a refueling stop before heading back to Kathmandu.
11:30 AM	Fly back to Kathmandu	Continue your scenic helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, with stunning views of the Himalayas on the way.
12:00 PM	Hotel Drop-Off	Our driver will pick you up from the airport and transfer you back to your hotel, ending your incredible helicopter tour.

Essential Things to Pack for Your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Flight Tour

Packing the right gear is paramount both in terms of comfort and safety on your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour. Weather conditions in the mountains can change very suddenly, so even though we normally take a tour in clear, sunny weather, you must be prepared for sudden cloud cover and/or sun. Here is the list of things you shall need on a smooth helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp:

UV Protection Sunglasses: The sun at high altitude could be so strong, so take good UV protection sunglasses to keep your eyes safe.
Lip Balm and Sun Lotion: Do not let your skin be affected by the strong sun of the Himalayas; therefore, take SPF lip balm and sunscreen to protect against sunburns.
Windproof Warm Jacket and Hat: Mountain weather can be pretty unpredictable. For better comfort in cold and windy conditions, carry a warm, windproof jacket and a hat.
Silk or nylon scarf: In cold mountain conditions, this will save your neck and face from the cold wind.
Warm trousers: A pair of comfortable insulated trousers will keep you warm because the temperature gets considerably cold at altitude.
Mobile and Camera: One should not forget a phone and camera because one gets great views of the Himalayas and the Everest region.
Passport or Passport Copy: One should never forget one's passport or its photocopy, which would help in identity matters during the flight.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your flight for keeping your energy up with your personal water bottle.

With these in your packing list, one will have everything they need for an Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, ensuring them comfort and safety while seeing the awesome Himalayas close up.

Rules for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Rule	Description
Follow Pilot's Instructions	Always adhere to the pilot's instructions while inside the helicopter for a safe flight experience.
Maintain Discipline	All passengers should behave in a disciplined manner to ensure safety and comfort during the flight.
Create a Cooperative Environment	Passengers are expected to be cooperative with the crew and fellow tourists throughout the journey.
Be Attentive During Observation	Pay careful attention during the flight, especially when observing the scenic views, and follow safety instructions.
Follow Tour Guide Instructions	Tourists should comply with their guide’s guidelines during the trip for a seamless experience.
Fasten Your Seatbelt	Ensure that your seatbelt is securely fastened during the entire helicopter flight to Everest Base Camp.
Remain Seated	Do not change your seat or stand during the flight. Stay in your assigned seat for safety.
Do Not Litter	Avoid throwing anything from the helicopter during the flight to protect the environment and safety.
No Smoking	Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the helicopter for safety reasons.
Wait for Operator's Call	Wait at the helipad until the helicopter operators call you to board, ensuring safety during the landing and boarding process.

Weather and Climate for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Season	Daytime Temperature	Nighttime Temperature	Weather Conditions
Spring (April to June)	15°C to 20°C	0°C to 10°C	Weather is mostly clear with warmer temperatures. Suitable for helicopter tours with the best views and comfortable conditions.
Summer/Monsoon (July to August)	15°C to 20°C	0°C to 10°C	Morning weather is usually clear, but the monsoon brings occasional rain and cloud cover. Flights are sometimes canceled due to bad weather.
Autumn (September to December)	-5°C to 20°C	-5°C to 10°C	Best season for clear skies and stunning mountain views. Temperatures are colder at night, but the weather is stable and favorable for helicopter tours.
Winter (December to February)	10°C to 15°C	-15°C to -10°C	View remains clear but colder conditions prevail. Daytime is relatively warmer, but nighttime can reach freezing temperatures.

Note: Weather in the mountains is highly changeable. The helicopter tour can be operated throughout the year, with morning flights offering the best visibility. In case of cancellation due to bad weather, a full refund is guaranteed. Always check the latest weather forecasts for the most accurate information.

Cost Includes and Excludes for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Cost Includes	Cost Excludes
Private transportation from your hotel to Kathmandu domestic airport	Breakfast at Everest View Hotel (approximately USD 30 to 40 per person) and beverages
Helicopter sightseeing flight in the Everest region on a shared basis (up to 5 persons per helicopter)	Personal expenses such as souvenirs, donations, tips, and equipment
Landing at Lukla for 15 to 20 minutes	Sagarmatha National Park entry fee, local tax, and airport tax (NPR 6500 per person)
Fly over Everest Base Camp, Kalapathar, Chola Pass, and Gokyo	Any other expenses not listed under 'Cost Includes'
Landing at Everest View Hotel for 50 to 60 minutes for breakfast (meal cost not included)
Oxygen cylinder on the helicopter for emergency use
Himalayan Dream Team service charges and applicable government taxes
Private transportation from Kathmandu domestic airport back to your hotel
13% Government VAT and helicopter fuel surcharges
Life insurance during the helicopter flight provided by aviation authorities

Alternative Helicopter Tour Options:

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour

The Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour is the best option for those tourists who wish to enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna region in one single day. This fantastic tour flies over the breathtaking Annapurna Massif, offering a bird's-eye view that few have taken in of snow-capped peaks combined with deep valleys and terraced hillsides. You will land at Annapurna Base Camp, which lies at an elevation of 4,130 meters with breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and other towering peaks. This is your chance to see one of Nepal's most iconic trekking destinations without having to hike for days, in a very quick but immersive way.

Langtang Gosainkunda Helicopter Tour

The Langtang Gosainkunda Helicopter Tour unfolds amidst the lush valleys and rugged landscapes of the region. Imagine flying over the pristine Gosainkunda Lake-a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists-on a day surrounded by towering mountains. This tour gives one a glimpse into the rich amalgamation of natural beauty and spiritual significance, offering breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung and other peaks. It is the ultimate option for trekkers who want to retire into serenity in one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Nepal.

Trek to Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour-an unforgettable adventure for those eager to see up close the world's highest mountain. For only $1,299, save the eight-day hike and fly directly to Everest Base Camp, landing at Kalapathar for some of the best views looking toward Mount Everest and across the surrounding Himalayan range. This one-day tour encompasses the grandeur of the Everest region with an aerial view of iconic landmarks such as Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and the Khumbu Icefall-all this in very little time.

Everest Helicopter Ride and Breakfast at Hotel Everest View

The options with the price of $1399 are the high-class Everest Helicopter Ride and Breakfast at Hotel Everest View. During this very unique tour, guests will take an exquisite helicopter ride over Mount Everest to the famous Hotel Everest View where they will enjoy breakfast with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It is a perfect blend of adventure and luxury, where one can dine in the highest-altitude hotel in the world with towering Everest in the background.

Exclusive Kathmandu-Gokyo Valley Helicopter Tour

An exclusive experience may be obtained by considering the Exclusive Kathmandu-Gokyo Valley Helicopter Tour, which can be undertaken in a single day for US$4,888. This is a breathtaking flight from Kathmandu into the gorgeous Gokyo Valley-home to a set of emerald-green Gokyo Lakes and the longest glacier in the Himalayas, Ngozumpa Glacier. You will get a very different helicopter ride with breathtaking views of towering Gokyo Ri and Mount Everest-a chance to explore one of the most tranquil and scenic valleys in Nepal.

Tilicho Lake Helicopter Tour: A Journey to the World's Highest Lake

The Tilicho Lake Helicopter Tour is the tour that provides thrilling experiences to Tilicho Lake-the highest lake in the world-lying at an elevation of 4,919 m. Flying over the rugged terrain of the Annapurna region and landing near the holy lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, this tour has unique experiences. It is an exciting way to visit this remote and scenic destination within one day, providing quite an unforgettable adventure for those who want to make a tour in one of the least-known but most attractive areas of Nepal.