Why go to Annapurna Base Camp on a Helicopter?
Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. However, it is a long and tough journey where you need physical endurance and preparation. However, if you go to the Base Camp on a helicopter, you won’t need any of that!
- Replace the long days’ walk with a thrilling ride on a helicopter.
- Breathtaking aerial views of Annapurna and Machhapuchre mid-flight and after landing.
- Ideal for seniors, families, or travelers with knee/back issues.
- Short trip but memories for a lifetime!
Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tours: Seasons Compared
Here are the best times to go for an Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter tour to avoid fog and enjoy crystal-clear skies:
- Spring (March-May): Rhododendron blooms + fewer crowds.
- Autumn (Sept-Nov): Post-monsoon clarity for Instagram-worthy shots.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Chilly but uncrowded—layer up!
- Red Flag: July flights get rescheduled 60% of the time due to rain.
Short Itinerary: What to Expect from Takeoff to Landing
A minute-by-minute guide:
06:00 AM: Transfer to Pokhara Airport from your Hotel
06:30 AM: Flight from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp
07:00 AM: Land at Annapurna Base Camp
07:30 AM: Fly Back to Pokhara
08:00 AM: Arrival at Pokhara
Safety Tips for Annapurna Helicopter Tours: Altitude, Weather, and More
Here are some things that are better to know before you embark on this special trip:
- Altitude sickness: 30-minute landing minimizes risk, but carry Diamox as a precaution.
- Weight limits: Max 480 kg per flight—weigh-ins happen pre-flight.
- Weather backups: Free rescheduling if winds exceed 25 knots.
- Did You Know? All helicopters have oxygen tanks and first-aid kits.
What to Pack for Your Annapurna Helicopter Ride: The Ultimate Checklist
Here are all the essentials you need for the Annapurna Helicopter Ride:
- Must-haves: Sunglasses (UV 400+), gloves, grippy shoes (helipads get icy!).
- Avoid: Loose hats (rotor winds!), heavy backpacks (max 5kg allowed).
- Wear a down jacket, windproof trekking pants, woolen shirt, and you’re good to go.
Group vs. Private Annapurna Helicopter Tours: Which Is Right for You?
Budget vs. flexibility:
- Groups: Save 40% but share space with 4 others. Best for solo travelers.
- Private: Customize stops (add Ghorepani or Poon Hill) + flexible timing.
Why Choose Himalayan Holidays Nepal for the ABC Helicopter Tour?
We’re not just another tour company:
- Certified Pilots + Eco-Friendly Flights
- 25+ years of experience in the Himalayas.
- Local crew with 5,000+ flight hours.
- One of the oldest touring companies in Nepal having served a huge number of foreign clients over the years.
Itinerary
Transfer to Pokhara Airport from your Hotel
We will pick you up from your accommodation early in the morning and drive you to Pokhara airport for the highly exciting yet rewarding Helicopter flight to Annapurna Base Camp.
Flight from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp
Early in the morning, you will take a helicopter flight and depart from Pokhara to continue north. From your helicopter, you can observe Sarangkot’s large terraced hillside backdrop, the greenery of the Annapurna Conservation Area, and the spectacular Himalayan mountain range. The Mardi Himal Hiking path may be viewed while on the journey. The journey then continues over the Modi Khola canyon and arrives at the crowded Annapurna Base Camp.
Land at Annapurna Base Camp
Once you arrive at the Annapurna Base Camp, you will have roughly 30 minutes on the ground to roam and snap photos within this stunning amphitheater. The surrounding view is stunning, as are the upper summits of Mount Annapurna I, II, Himchuli, and Tent Peak. With glaciers, rocky outcrops, lodges, and fluttering Tibetan Buddhist prayer flags, the alpine view is stunning. You will be ready to leave ABC after a stunning 30-minute halt.
Fly Back to Pokhara
You will take off from Annapurna Base Camp and fly south along the mountain range of the Mardi Himal circuit. The luxuriant vegetation of the deep forests will subsequently be yours to savor. Explore the wonderful city of Lakes, Pokhara, and its splendors by taking a long flight.
Arrival at Pokhara.
We will greet you at the airport when you arrive in Pokhara and drive you to your guesthouse.
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
The full experience takes 2–3 hours, including a 20-minute flight from Pokhara, 30 minutes at the base camp, and return. Tours from Kathmandu take 5–6 hours with a refueling stop.
The short stay at 4,130 meters minimizes risk, but we provide oxygen cylinders and limit landing time. Consult your doctor if you have heart or respiratory conditions.
Yes! This tour is suitable for all ages. We assist seniors with boarding and provide kid-friendly safety briefings.
Costs cover permits, airport transfers, 30-minute landing, fuel surcharges, and insurance. Exclusions: Nepal visa fees, meals at ABC, and gratuities.
Flights are rescheduled or refunded. We monitor forecasts and notify you 12 hours in advance.
Yes, helicopters have a 480 kg max limit. Private charters optimize seating for comfort.
Absolutely! Add a sunrise breakfast at ABC or combine with a Muktinath flyover. Contact us for bespoke itineraries.
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