The small landlocked nation of Nepal is known for its beautiful travel destinations, breathtaking scenery, friendly people, and the top of the world, Mount Everest. Thousands of thrill seekers make their dream to see Everest or at least reach the Everest Base Camp. Luckily, there’s a much more convenient method of getting to Everest and exploring the world’s tallest peak. It’s the Everest Heli tour. 

During the Heli Tour in Everest, visitors will take a scenic flight over the Himalayas and enjoy a view of the magnificent Mount Everest from the air. We at Pokhara Info have prepared this guide if you want to engage in this activity too. The tour includes a landing at the Base Camp, where visitors can get a closer view of the mountain and learn about its history and culture.

Why take Heli Tour at Everest?

The benefits of taking a Heli Tour at Everest are numerous. Most notably, the thrill that it provides. Visitors can enjoy a unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience by exploring the world’s highest mountain. The tour offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the Himalayan range seen from the top, which are unparalleled anywhere in the world.

Planning the Heli Tour 

If you too, want to experience the amazing Heli tour of Mount Everest, there are a few things you need to know.

Best time for a Heli Tour at Everest

The best time to take a Heli Tour at Everest is from October to December or March to May. During these months, the weather is generally good, and the skies are clear, allowing for the best views of the mountain and the surrounding Himalayas.

How to book the Heli tour and Price

Visitors can book a Heli Tour at Everest through tour operators and travel agencies that offer adventure tourism activities. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to get the best deals. 

You can choose private helicopter outlets such as Simrik Air (a reputable airfare company in Nepal) with Airbus H125 or Bell 407GXP helicopter. You can visit the official Simrik Air website to book your flight. 

The price for a solo (private) Heli Everest Heli flight is app. US $3600 and if you’re in a group of fewer than 5 people the price is US $1000 per person. As mentioned earlier, there are outlets such as Nepal Helicopter, Simrik Air, Air Dynasty, and more that provide Everest Heli services that you can book. If you want to avoid the hassle, you can contact us at Pokhara Info to arrange the trip for you.

The Flight itself

Before starting the flight, the flying instructor will go over several crucial rules and safety precautions with you. After that, we shall meet the helicopter’s captain and board. We encourage you to ask all of your questions about the flight during the meetup so that you can cooperate and help ensure a safe trip.

On this tour, you will get to see all the locations involved in the Everest Base Camp trek. These locations include Kala Patthar, Lukla, Lamjura-La Pass, Khumbu, Syangboche, Gorak Shep, Everest View Hotel, and more.

To begin, you or your group will take off from the airport at Kathmandu and get to Lukla while flying over the hills at Dolakha. We will take a rest at Lukla for 15 minutes and continue the tour. Then, we fly around and get to Kala Patthar after another 15 minutes. You can take a break (up to 10 minutes) to get acclimatized if you feel any difficulty after the sudden change of altitude.

Then, we fly to Syangboche and fly around Everest. At Syangboche, we can either stop at Everest View Hotel or go back to Lukla. If you decide to visit the Everest View Hotel, you can enjoy the scenic view of Mount Everest while having breakfast or the lunch of your choice. Finally, you will get to see the bird-eye view of Namche Bazaar, Pumori, Lhotse Summit, Phakding, and Lukla.

What to Expect

Scenic Flights

There are two options for the Heli tour. The Tour at Everest begins at either Lukla or straight from the capital city, Kathmandu. Then, you fly around the Everest region with a scenic flight over the Himalayas, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain range and the surrounding landscape.

Helicopter Capacity

As of 2023, 450 kg is the maximum weight per charter that can land at Syangboche, including the passengers (up to 5 people), luggage, and other cargo. However, because of limits imposed by the high altitude, the maximum landing weight at Pheriche is 420 kg, while Kala Patthar is 220 kg.

View of Mount Everest and the Himalayas

Visitors will get a stunning view of the majestic Mount Everest and the Himalayas during the Heli Tour. The view is unparalleled and offers visitors a unique perspective of the world’s highest mountain.

Landing at Base Camp

The Heli Tour includes landing at the Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters. You will get a chance to explore the camp, interact with the locals, and learn about the history and culture of the mountain.

Safety Tips

Dress Appropriately

Visitors should dress appropriately for the Heli Tour at Everest. It is recommended to wear warm clothes, including jackets, UV protection sunglasses, gloves, and hats, as the temperature can be quite cold at higher altitudes.

Altitude Sickness

Visitors should be aware of altitude sickness, which can be a common problem when traveling to high altitudes. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Visitors should stay hydrated and take medication if necessary.

Follow the Guide’s Instructions

Visitors should always follow the guide’s instructions during the Heli Tour at Everest. The guide is experienced and knowledgeable about the area, and their instructions should be followed for safety reasons.

The Everest Heli Tour is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers visitors a chance to explore the world’s highest mountain and the Himalayas. With proper planning and preparation, visitors can enjoy a safe and thrilling adventure that they will remember for a lifetime. Or if you simply want top-notch preparation without your effort, you can remember Pokhara Info.