Known for the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and its epic natural destination, Nepal has way more to offer. Hence, when time is limited, helicopter ride are a fun and quick way to savour these moments.
In today’s scenario, people seldom get free from their work hence, helicopter ride open a plethora of travel options in pressed time. These rides will not only let you experience more in less time but also soak you with a birds-eye view. Additionally, it is also perfect for people who do not do well at high altitudes or long routes.
In the meantime, the flying expedition makes the journey more thrilling and adventurous. Here, we have a list of some of the most stunning destinations in Nepal that you can explore through helicopter ride.
Everest Base Camp
Trekking to Everest Base Camp (shortest ebc trek) will take at least a week (7 days) hence; the only way to experience the journey in a limited time is to take a helicopter ride. As a fun fact, among all the helicopter tours in Nepal, Everest Base Camp and Sagarmatha National Park rides were the first.
The EBC helicopter tour is a day package where you will get a scenic ride from Kathmandu to Lukla. This will keep you away from the hassle of several hiking days and you will be enjoying along the trails of the Himalayas.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Magical view of snow-capped mountains such as Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu.
- Glimpse of Sherpa villages like Syangboche, Tengboche and Gorakh Step
- Experience the high viewpoint, Kala Patthar (5,644.5 meters / 18,519 feet)
- Fly over lush hills and alpine forests
- Enjoy breakfast at Everest View Hotel at 13,000 feet
Annapurna Base Camp
This helicopter ride lasts for three hours full of thrill through deep canyons, beautiful villages, and the panoramic 360-degree mountain view from Annapurna Base Camp. It is the second-most popular package that starts from Pokhara.
With this chopper experience, you will save the trek duration of around 12 days.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Stunning views of Mount Annapurna, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, and many more.
- Experience the culture of traditional ethnic groups of Gurung, Magar, and Tamang
- Glimpses of high alpine grasslands, terraced farmlands, and snow-covered peaks
Gosaikunda
Due to the sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Langtang Region of Nepal, Gosaikunda is a popular journey among trekkers. Hence, this chopper package is perfect for people who want to have a hands-on experience with the religious significance and mesmerising beauty of the lake.
This travel will help you experience the journey in just an hour or so. As it lies on the popular Langtang Valley trekking route, you will also be able to enjoy the surroundings.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Fly over the Gosaikunda trail and Langtang National Park
- Views of high peaks like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa
- Immerse in the cultural lifestyle of the Tamang people
- Touchdown the pilgrimage site of Gosaikunda Lake
Muktinath
It is a Vishnu temple in Muktinath Valley located at the lap of Throng La mountain pass. It is 38000 meters high from sea level and often calls hundreds of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world yearly.
You can enjoy a scenic heli ride to this destination from either Kathmandu or Pokhara in a single day.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Bird-eye view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
- Aerial view of Kagbeni, Jomsom, and Muktinath Valley
- Experience the semi-desert of Nepal, the Mustang District
- Take a holy bath under 108 spring water
Langtang Valley
The Langtang Valley heli trek is one of the shortest luxury treks above the lush green of Nepal’s first Himalayan Park, the Langtang National Park and Tamang communities. It is one of the most scenic and cheapest aerial flights to explore nearby Kathmandu.
Located on the northern side of Kathmandu, the trip lasts for a few hours.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Stunning views of peaks like Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Gosaikunda Lake.
- Fly over the Langtang National Park and Tamang communities.
- Witness lush green landscapes with rhododendron forests.
Rara Lake
Located in the Mugu district in Nepal, the transportation facility is still a mess hence, the heli tour covers the trek with ease. The Rara Lake is often mentioned as the “Heaven on Earth” due to its magical appearance.
This particular lake is situated at an altitude of 3,000 meters inside the Rara National Park. This trip takes about three hours to reach the largest lake.
Moving on, the untouched beauty of this region looks like a fairytale scene. Hence, getting an aerial view of the fresh blue water nestled along the lap of lush greenery is absolutely indescribable.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.
- Fly above the Rara National Park.
- Close-up view of the Rara Lake
Upper Mustang
Also known as the “Mini Tibet of Nepal”, the Upper Mustang is a natural wonderland. This region remains untouched by development hence, preserving its original tradition.
The helicopter ride offers a unique experience along the valley. This area possesses a similar geography as that of the Tibetan plateau as well as a similar culture and lifestyle of the Tibetans.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Explore the forbidden kingdom of Mustang located near the Nepal and China border.
- Close view of the Annapurna Himalayan ranges, Kaligandaki River, and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Experience Tibetan culture and lifestyle.
- Witness the walled city.
Tilicho Lake
The Tilicho Lake helicopter ride tour will take you to the highest-altitude lake in the world at 4,920 meters. Situated in the Manang district of the Annapurna region, it is literally the epitome of beauty. This journey is filled with panoramic views, cultural variation, lush green forests, and Annapurna massifs.
Additionally, this lake also holds religious value among the Hindus. Not to mention, it is also a famous pott for photography and filming.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Panoramic views of peaks such as Khangsar, Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and many more.
- Fly over Annapurna Circuit trail and Thorong La Pass.
- Aerial views of Manang villages and amazing landscapes.
Pokhara
It is one of the most popular city sightseeing tours in Heli that covers the beautiful lake city and its surrounding mountains. This trip lasts for about an hour and gives you an aerial view of the significant locations of the city.
You can also get customized heli services during the trip offering a unique perspective.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- Panoramic view of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre ranges.
- Explore Pokhara Valley, Dhampus, Ghandruk, Sikles, etc.
- Fly over lush green forests, serene lake, and terraced fields.
- Witness hot locations such as World Peace Pagoda, Phewa Lake, and Srangkot Hill.
Kathmandu Valley and Chitwan Valley
It is the perfect trip for people who want to experience the whole of Kathmandu Valley and Chitwan Valley in a short period of time. It is a picturesque heli tour that passes through small towns, green hills, and villages, offering astonishing mountain views.
Highlights of this Heli Tour
- City sightseeing
- Bird eye view of Kathmandu and Chitwan Valley and neighbouring mountain ranges
- Witness farming terraces
Helicopter Tours’ Safety
Many people voice their concerns about whether helicopter tours in Nepal are actually safe. The straight answer is: yes, it is safe! Though the inconsistent weather conditions and mountainous terrain make the journey dangerous, however, the pilots are experienced and professional regarding the geography.
The safety of the flight is maintained with irregular maintenance and weather monitoring. Additionally, it is also backed up by emergency safety procedures and equipment.
Tips During Helicopter Tours
Appropriate Dressing
To ensure maximum comfort during the journey, you should be comfortable with what you wear initially. It is often advised to wear lightweight layered clothing as the weather in mountainous regions is unexpected.
Stay Hydrated
One can get dehydrated rather quickly while flying at a high altitude, hence, you should drink plenty of water. However, a heavy meal before the flight will make you feel queasy so, you must avoid oily and greasy food to not have motion sickness later on.
Capture the Moment
It is indeed wonderful to sit back and soak in the moment. However, you should also be prepared if in case you want to capture and frame the moment for a lasting memory.
Follow Your Representative
It is the most sensible task to follow your guide or representative to ensure your safety and travel in a sustainable way. Respect the places and culture you witness and do not litter or disturb the natural surroundings.
In A Nutshell
The Helicopter tour in Nepal is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime moment, hence, you must savour it all. It is a thrilling method to explore the country’s nature and culture.
It provides you with more experiences in a limited time period and lets you experience unparalleled views and access to remote areas with convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of helicopter tours in Nepal?
The cost of helicopter tours varies vastly depending on the location of the tour and the duration. It can range from anywhere between a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.
