Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour-1 Day

Quick Overview

Overview of EBC Helicopter Tour

Experience the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, a renowned one-day journey that provides outstanding aerial views of Mount Everest and the stunning Himalayas. This luxury journey departs from Kathmandu, flying over historic Sherpa villages and affording a direct view of Everest Base Camp. You'll make a brief landing near Kala Patthar to capture stunning photographs of Everest, followed by an exquisite breakfast at the world-renowned Hotel Everest View. It's the ideal way to enjoy the beauty of Everest and the Khumbu region without the multi-day walk, finishing with a return flight to Kathmandu for an amazing and time-saving Himalayan adventure.

Morning pick-up and departure from Kathmandu (about 5:30 AM - 7:00 AM):

Your day will begin with an early morning pickup from your Kathmandu hotel.  You will be taken to Tribhuvan International Airport's domestic terminal to fulfill pre-flight formalities.

Scenic flight to Lukla (approx. 45 minutes)

The chopper departs Kathmandu and heads east. You'll be treated to breathtaking aerial views of Nepal's various landscapes, ranging from terraced slopes and rural villages to the spreading Himalayan peaks of Langtang, Jugal, and Ganesh Himal. The flight briefly refuels at Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport, 2,860 m/9,383 ft.), the entry to the Everest region.

Flight over Everest Base Camp and landing at Kala Patthar (approx. 30-45 minutes flying time, quick landing)

From Lukla, the helicopter ascends further into the Khumbu Valley. You will fly over legendary Sherpa settlements such as Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Pangboche while following the traditional hiking path. The highlight of this adventure is the flyover of Everest Base Camp (EBC) (5,364 m/17,598 ft.), providing a bird's-eye view of the expedition camps and the stunning Khumbu Icefall.

Most tours involve a short landing near Kala Patthar (5,555 m/18,225 ft.). This is your chance to step out there and take amazing photos, and actually feel the high-altitude air with direct views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Pumori. The landing duration is normally small (approximately 5-15 minutes) to reduce the danger of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) caused by the quick ascend. Some trips may additionally include a quick landing in Pheriche for passenger transfer in order to manage weight at higher altitudes.

Breakfast at Hotel Everest View (approx. 20-30 minutes)

After the thrilling close-up connect with Everest, the helicopter will descend to lower altitude for breakfast. Typically, this occurs at the luxurious Hotel Everest View (3,880 m/12,730 ft.) near Syangboche. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast on the hotel's terrace while admiring the stunning panoramic views of Everest and Ama Dablam.

Return flight to Lukla for refueling and then back to Kathmandu (around 1 hour and 30 minutes):

Following breakfast, you'll board the helicopter again for the return flight to Lukla for another refueling stop. You'll take in the final airborne vistas of the Himalayas from Lukla before continuing your flight back to Kathmandu.

Transfer to Hotel (about 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM)

Your amazing one-day Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour will come to an end when you are welcomed by a private vehicle at Tribhuvan International Airport and driven back to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Important Considerations

  • Weather Dependency: The weather has a big impact on helicopter tours. Winds or low visibility can cause flights to be canceled or delayed. You should be flexible with your timetable.
  • Altitude Sickness: Although the time spent at high altitude is short, fast ascent might still result in mild AMS symptoms. The short landing times are intended to prevent this.
  • Cost: EBC helicopter trips are a premium experience, with prices varying depending on group size (private vs. shared charter) and qualities. Prices normally range between USD 1,000 to USD 6,000+.
  • Safety: Reputable helicopter firms prioritize safety by employing skilled pilots, operating well-maintained aircraft (typically Airbus H125/AS350 B3e versions), and committing strongly to aviation regulations. Oxygen systems usually get put on board.
  • Permits: Your tour operator will arrange for the necessary permits to visit Sagarmatha National Park.
Cost Details
Includes
  • Free Airports transfer during arrival and departure
  • Helicopter Insurance
  • All the permits for Everest
  • Helicopter flight.
  • Breakfast at Everest View Hotel
Excludes
  • Nepal entry Visa fee
  • Hotel Accomodation in Kathmandu
  • personal expences
  • personal  Medical Insurance. 
Essential Information

FAQ for EBC helicopter tout.

  1. What is the main highlight of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
The main highlight is seeing the majestic Mount Everest and surrounding Himalayan peaks with exclusive panoramic mountain views in a single day, which frequently includes a brief landing near Kala Patthar for photos and an unforgettable breakfast experience.
  1. How long does a helicopter tour normally last?

The overall time from hotel pickup in Kathmandu to return is normally around 4-5 hours, with about 3-4 hours of flying time including break.

  1. Is the helicopter actually land at Everest Base Camp?

While the helicopter flies directly above Everest Base Camp (EBC) for a breathtaking aerial view, current laws frequently restrict non-emergency landings at EBC or Kala Patthar to protect the environment. Instead, a quick landing is usually performed near Kala Patthar or a designated viewpoint to ensure safety and good views.

  1. What is the best time of year to take this helicopter tour?

The most suitable seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), which provide the clearest skies, consistent weather, and great visibility of the mountains. Winter (December-February) provides clear views but is cooler.

  1. Is altitude sickness an issue for this tour?

While the ascent is rapid, the time spent at high altitudes (particularly during landings) is limited (typically 5-15 minutes at Kala Patthar) to reduce the risk of AMS. Helicopters are outfitted with oxygen for emergencies.

  1. What is the cost of an EBC Helicopter Tour?

Prices vary widely depending on whether it is a private charter or a group-sharing tour. Shared trips typically cost between USD 1,000 and USD 2,000 per person, however private charters can cost several thousand dollars.

  1. How many individuals can a helicopter carry on this tour?

Helicopters often transport 4-5 persons. Due to weight limits at higher altitudes, passengers may be shuffled, and a maximum of three passengers can travel for the highest landing.

  1. What if the weather is terrible on the scheduled day?

Helicopter tours are heavily weather dependent. Flights may be delayed or canceled due to extreme weather (fog, high winds, or poor visibility). Reputable operators typically provide free rescheduling for the following available day or a full refund.

  1. What kind of clothing should I wear on EBC Heli Tour?

Dress warmly, as temperatures decrease dramatically at higher altitudes. A warm jacket (preferably down), hat, gloves, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

  1. Do I need a permit for this helicopter tour?

Yes, permits, such as the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit, are necessary. The Everest Holiday will organize these for you.

  1. Is breakfast included in the trip package?

Yes, EBC Helicopter Tours include a great breakfast stop at the magnificent Hotel Everest View, which has a breathtaking panoramic mountain backdrop.

  1. Is the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Safe?

Yes, reputable companies value safety. They operate modern, well-maintained helicopters, employ experienced pilots trained in high-altitude flight, and follow strict aviation regulations. In an emergency, oxygen is usually available on board.

  1. Can children or the elderly take part in this tour?

Yes, the tour is appropriate for most ages because it avoids hard physical exertion. Individuals with pre-existing heart or lung issues should contact with their doctor before scheduling. Some operators may need a minimum age (for example, 5 years old).

  1. What are the views like during the flight?

Expect incredible aerial views of Himalayan peaks, glaciers, icefalls, deep valleys, and quaint Sherpa villages. The close-up views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam are truly spectacular.

  1. Is it possible to combine this tour with a trek?

Yes, some travelers opt to trek to EBC and then take a helicopter back to Lukla or Kathmandu to save time and effort on the return journey. This is known as an "Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return. The Everest Holiday have all those package for your Comfort.