Nepal is home to several of the tallest mountains in the world. Climbing these mountains or even visiting the base camps is a highly fulfilling yet difficult experience. However, helicopter tours can make this stressful experience quite convenient and Pokhara Info is here to help you manage the Mardi Himal Base Camp.  

The unique experience of the Mardi Himal base camp offers a bird’s eye view of the stunning Mardi Himal mountain range in Nepal, with all the luxury and comfort of a helicopter ride.

About Mardi Himal

Mardi Himal is a mountain range located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The peak of Mardi Himal stands at 5,587 meters. There, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas. In recent times, the trek to Mardi Himal is becoming increasingly popular among trekkers and adventurers. As a result, so has the Mardi Himal heli tour.

About the Helicopter Tour of Mardi

Despite being in the same area, the Mardi Heli tour is much preferred by tourists over the ABC heli tour. The cinematic and most incredible horizontal perspective of towering mountains, the setting sun, fluttering clouds, and the picturesque tropical scenery may be seen on a helicopter tour to Mardi Himal. The centerpiece of the tour is Mardi Himal. Some other key mountains visible through this Mardi Heli tour are Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Singu Chuli, Hiunchuli, Khangsar Kang, Annapurna Ranges, Gangapurna, Tare Kang Glacier Dome, and so on. 

This Mardi Helicopter Tour stands out as the finest option for individuals who want to enjoy the natural beauty in a shorter amount of time because it provides a close-up perspective of the complete Himalayan majesty. That also applies to individuals who are unable to break through the full route’s uphill and downhill march.

Why choose Mardi Himal Helicopter Tour over Mardi Trek?

• One of the biggest benefits of a helicopter tour of Mardi Himal is that it saves time. It is quite obvious yet true. Instead of spending days trekking to the base camp, you can explore the beauty of the mountain range in just a few hours. You’ll also be back at this time.
• Getting on a helicopter if you’ve never done so. Seeing the Himalayas from a bird’s eye view is an unforgettable experience. You might even be scared at first. The helicopter tour allows you to see the mountains and the surrounding landscape from a perspective that is not possible on a traditional trek.
• The trek is long and exhausting. Luckily, the helicopter tour is a luxurious experience. It features comfortable seating, air conditioning, and panoramic windows that offer stunning views of the Himalayas.

How to Book a Mardi Himal Helicopter Tour

Visitors can book the Mardi Heli Tour 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, Air Dynasty, or Nepal Helicopter service among a few with choppers such as Airbus H125 or Bell 407GXP helicopter. You can visit the official website or also contact Pokhara Info to book your flight easily. 

The price for a single passenger on the Mardi Heli flight is approximately US $1750. As previously said, you can reserve Mardi Heli services from private operators. Luckily, you can contact Pokhara Info to have the tour planned for you if you wish to avoid inconvenience.

The Flight Itself

The flight to Mardi Himal takes off from lake city Pokhara and lasts for about 12 to 15 minutes. After you get to the Mardi base camp, the helicopter will leave you alone for around 30 minutes while you explore the area, take pictures and films, and create tons of memories. You will be flown back to Pokhara after spending some time there, and the trip should just take 12 to 15 minutes.

Best time for a Heli Tour at Mardi

At Mardi Himal, October to December or March to May are the ideal times to take a helicopter tour. The best views of the peak and the surrounding Himalayas are during these months because of the normally good weather and clear skies.

Nepal is a country with eight of the ten tallest mountains in the world and a gorgeous Himalayan range. If you wish to visit them all, or even see just the popular ones, a helicopter tour is the quickest yet most immersive way. In Nepal, there are a lot of Heli tour packages that you can choose including the Everest Heli tour, the ABC Heli tour (Annapurna base camp), the Rara Heli tour, and more.

For first-timers, the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour is an adventure trip that offers a unique way to explore the beautiful Annapurna region of Nepal. This two-hour Heli tour makes you feel more than just two hours. It takes you on a scenic helicopter ride to the base of the Annapurna mountains, where you can experience trekking, local culture, and food.

Overview of the Tour

The Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour is a thrilling adventure that takes you on a helicopter ride to the base of the Annapurna mountains and the Annapurna region (not just the mountain). You can either start the tour from the capital city of Kathmandu or the city of Pokhara. Popularly, most tourists prefer the tour from Pokhara. This tour offers a unique way to explore the Annapurna region and provides stunning views of the Himalayas.

From Pokhara, the trip by helicopter to Annapurna Base Camp will start. The Annapurna Base Camp, Mounts Annapurna, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and their ranges are all fairly close by from Pokhara valley. It takes a helicopter 15 minutes to fly through breathtaking mountain scenery to get to ABC. A helicopter window provides a 360-degree view of the majestic Annapurna range including Mount Fishtail (Locally Machhapuchre), Mount Annapurna I (at 8,091m), Mount Dhaulagiri (at 8,167m), and other Himalayan peaks.

ABC Heli Tour Cost 

There are two types of heli tours available for the ABC region. They’re charter basis private helicopter tours and group-joining helicopter tours. If you’re with a group or want to fly private, you can book the charter basis flight. In this, you (or your group) will book the helicopter and pay for the flight. 

If you’re flying solo or duo and do not want to book the whole helicopter, you can choose a group joining flight. This package will include a total of five passengers that have booked individually. The full capacity of the helicopter is five people. The tour typically lasts 2-3 hours and costs around $360 – $420 per person. You can contact private heli tour operators like Simrik Air, Nepal Helicopter tour, Air dynasty, and more to book your flight. However, if you decide to go with Pokhara Info, we will manage all the hassles for the tour including the booking, and paperwork, and let you enjoy the tour effortlessly.

Why choose ABC Heli Tour?

• The tour offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region.
• It provides a chance to explore local culture and food in short time.
• The tour is perfect for those who want to experience trekking but have limited time or physical ability.
• The tour provides a safe and comfortable way to explore the region.
• A way to experience a helicopter ride if you’ve never ridden one.

Best Time to visit ABC by helicopter

The best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp by helicopter is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is clear and stable, making it perfect for a scenic flight and trekking. The tour generally starts in the morning as it’s the best time of the day to view the mountainous region without much clouds or fog. It’s important to note that the weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. So, it’s best to check weather forecasts and plan your trip accordingly.

You can select private helicopter providers such as Simrik Air (a recognized airline in Nepal) that has Airbus H125, 9N AJI, or Bell 407GXP helicopters. To make a flight reservation, you can go to the official Simrik air website.

What to expect in ABC Heli Tour and Itinerary

The Annapurna Base Camp Heli tour begins with a scenic flight from the Pokhara valley. Since Pokhara International Airport is the closest takeoff location to the Annapurna Sanctuary, the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour begins there. The Heli trip lasts for about 2-3 hours, taking into account the 30-minute flight time to the base camp. A member of the staff will provide a brief introduction to the members of the flight crew before outlining basic safety considerations that must be adhered to at all costs while on the charter. Safety is the first concern. Before getting on the helicopter, it’s necessary to make sure that you have understood all the instructions. 

We formally begin the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour as we soar over the picturesque city of Pokhara (1,400 m), admiring the enchanted Fewa Lake. You will get to see some breathtaking vistas of heavenly nature interspersed by the sporadic Magar and Gurung settlements along the road. The massive snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna mountain range greet you after a 30-minute flight.

Staying for more than 30 minutes can be dangerous because the base camp is at a height of 4,130 meters. Acute Mountain Sickness could result from quickly gaining such a high altitude (AMS). Nonetheless, thirty minutes is more than time for us to take in some sightseeing, record some priceless moments, and savor a hearty and delicious meal. Thereafter, we go back to the airport in Pokhara.

How to Prepare:

There are a few important factors you should consider before you think of engaging in an ABC Heli tour.

Physical Fitness:

Even kids and senior citizens can perfectly experience the ABC heli tour. While the tour is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, it’s important to be physically prepared for the trek. Regular exercise and cardiovascular training are recommended.

Clothing and Equipment:

You’ll need to bring appropriate clothing and equipment for the trek. This includes warm clothing, hiking boots, and a daypack. It’s recommended to pack light to make the helicopter ride more comfortable.

Acclimatization:

Since you’ll be trekking at a high altitude, it’s important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. You’ll need to spend a few days in Kathmandu before the tour to adjust to the altitude.

Top Things to do in Annapurna Base Camp

The trek to the Annapurna Base Camp takes more than 10 days. There are a lot of things you can do in those ten days including: 

• Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
• Visit Poon Hill for a sunrise view of the Himalayas
• Explore traditional villages like Chhomrong and Ghandruk
• Take a dip in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
• Visit the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Museum

With ABC heli tour, you can still view most of these attractions but do not have to spend the two weeks trekking and hiking. However, Pokhara Info also has ABC trekking tours available if you’re a trekking enthusiast.

The once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour provides a singular approach to appreciating the Himalayas’ natural splendor. This tour is ideal for adventurers looking to experience the area in a secure and pleasant manner because it offers breathtaking mountain views, trekking, local culture, and delicious food.

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.