Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

How does the Everest Base Camp Heli Tour operate?

This incredible helicopter tour to the Mount Everest base camp commences early in the morning from Kathmandu. Our Himalayan master’s team staff will pick you up right at the hotel gate and drop you off at the airport in a private vehicle. Then, there will be some paperwork that needs to be completed under the guidance of our team. After that, we fly towards Lukla.

In less than 30 minutes, you will occasionally stop at Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport) to refuel and arrange the crew. In the meantime, you can visit the nearby places in Lukla. Then, the plane flies over the Phakding, Namche, Tengboche, and Gorakshep villages. You can see the entire Everest Base Camp route from the comfort of your window seat.

As per your group number, we might have to land at Pheriche to adjust the team size (described below in the “Helicopter group sharing” section). Soon, you will be flying over to Everest Base Camp. Everest Base Camp is the hub of mountaineers and trek enthusiasts from all around the world. The plane flies over Everest, Gokyo, Kala Patthar, and all major destinations in the area.

For a private Helicopter Tour only, you can land on Kala Patthar for about 10-15 minutes and take photos and videos of the amazing 360° view of the mountain range. Then, you will fly to the Hotel Everest View for breakfast. After spending about an hour at the hotel, you hop on the helicopter and fly back to Kathmandu with another 30-minute flight.

New Updates on Everest Helicopter Tour

EBC helicopter ban: After the tragic accident in 2023, the National Aviation Council closed the Everest Base Camp tour by helicopter with landings. This decision was made after the “Manang Air Crash” while landing in the base camp.

EBC Helicopter Reopens

The Everest helicopter tour started again in January 2024. Necessary policy changes have been made, and strict rules have been implemented for airlines that fly to Lukla.

New Changes in Landing

Earlier, helicopters used to frequently land at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. This dramatically disturbed the travellers, especially mountain climbers who set up camp at Everest Base Camp. Also, Kala Patthar is a small space, and tourists are greatly disturbed by the noise and wind from the helicopter.

So, a new rule has been implemented to prohibit helicopters from landing at such essential places. A few rules for Everest Helicopter landing state:

• Landing at Everest Base Camp is completely prohibited for commercial flights.
• Landing at Kala Patthar is only allowed for private flights with only two people onboard. Landing permission is not issued for group flights.
• Shared helicopters can land beyond Everest only four times. It lands in Pheriche 3 times to divide the group and then finally lands at Hotel Everest View for breakfast and a panoramic mountain view (discussed in detail in group sharing helicopter flight below).

Types of EBC Helicopter Tour

Before planning this life-changing adventure, you should know that there are two options for this Everest helicopter tour with landing.

1.   Joining Other Group for EBC Helicopter Tour

We suggest this option for groups of less than 3. If you are a solo traveller or travelling only with your partner, we will merge you with others in a new group. This is the best and cheapest option for solo or couple travellers.

Since EBC Heli flights from Kathmandu are frequently operational, you can fly with another group that is willing to share the price of the helicopter. We ensure that there are five people on the plane and that the helicopter rental rate is paid equally by all members.

Once you have confirmed your helicopter tour with Himalayan Masters, we will check the weather viability and book a shared helicopter at your most convenient time. Then, you can make full payment and get your tickets.

When you arrive in Nepal, we will drive you to the airport, where you will meet other group members. Then, we will complete some paperwork. After that, the pilot explained the safety procedure and how to fly to Everest.

2.   Landings in Group EBC Helicopter Tour

Lukla: First Landing

We will fly from Kathmandu airport and reach Lukla airport within 30 minutes. Located at 2840 meters, this Tenzing-Hillary Airport is one of the most dangerous air paths. However, the helicopter landing at Lukla is entirely safe and thrilling. The plane stops at Lukla for almost 20 minutes to refuel.

Such a short stop at Lukla allows you to control any hazardous misfortune at a vertical height.

During this tour, you will have a chance to witness the significant town of Khumbu and visit the Sherpa settlement.

Pheriche: First Landing at Pheriche

Our next landing will be at Pheriche (4240 m). Since we cannot fly beyond Lukla with more than three passengers (weight limit of 240 kg), we need to re-adjust the number at Pheriche. During re-adjustment, you can see the stunning view of the mountain from Pheriche Viewpoint.

Everest Fly Over: The helicopter then flies over Everest, Kala Patthar, Gokyo, and all major destinations of Everest. You can see the tents in the base camp, and during spring, you can also see climbers attempting to reach the summit.

Pheriche: Second and Third Landing

The helicopter takes another group of people while you capture beautiful memories at Pheriche. The new group goes for the flyover and comes back in 10 minutes. Then, the helicopter picks up all the group members and flies to Hotel Everest View.

Fourth Landing: Hotel Everest View

Hotel Everest View has a large clearance zone for helicopter landing. Here, you will spend about an hour for breakfast and enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of Everest and nearby mountains. Finally, fly back to Kathmandu, sometimes stopping at Lukla for refuelling.

Private Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

Firstly, you should know that the Everest Helicopter Trip is not just about flying above the mountains. We land at many essential places along the Khumbu region, giving you infinite opportunities to experience the beauty of the hills and take excellent photos.

A private Everest base camp helicopter tour is the best tour to Mount Everest. This deluxe private helicopter tour gives you an unforgettable memory of a lifetime and exciting adventures in the Nepalese Himalayas.

Commercial helicopters with more than two passengers are prohibited from flying over an altitude of 5000 meters. So, it is compulsory to book private helicopter tours if you want to land at Kala Patthar’s viewpoint.

Himalayan masters will be responsible for providing you with the helicopter, pilot, and guide (if necessary) for the event. Once you confirm your booking with us and make the advance payment, we will provide you with the details of the helicopter.

Landings in Private EBC Tour by Helicopter

Lukla: First Landing

Lukla is the entry point of Everest and the biggest settlement region. Even the Everest base camp trekkers must fly to Lukla before they start the journey. With about 20 minutes of flying from Kathmandu, we will land at Lukla. For about 15 to 20 minutes, you can visit the nearby area while the helicopter is refuelling itself.

Pheriche: Second Landing (Alternative landing)

Landing at Pheriche is optional for the private tours. If your group has more members, we follow the same pattern as mentioned above and split the group at Pheriche. But if you are flying only two people (weight limit 240 kg), you can skip this landing and head towards Kala Patthar.

Everest Fly Over: The helicopter will now fly over the Everest Base Camp, where you can see the climbers preparing to summit or summiting Everest. You can also see tents at EBC, go to Gokyo lakes, and see all the major spots in Khumbu.

Kala Patthar: Third Landing

Kala Patthar, in Nepali, translates to “Black Rock”, and it remains the most beautiful viewpoint of Everest, situated at 5550 meters. Kala Patthar offers the most magical views of the glorious Everest, Nuptse, Cho Oyo, and many other nearby peaks.

It’s the best photogenic panorama of the snow-capped, skyscraping mountains that humanity will ever witness. Kala Patthar has 30 square feet of clearance space for helicopter landing.

Hotel Everest View: Fourth Landing

The best one is left for last. From Kala Patthar, you will fly for about 20 minutes to Namche and then straight up to the Hotel Everest View. At around 3900 meters, this hotel is regarded as the first luxurious hotel at the highest altitude in the world. Our Everest helicopter tour includes landing stops at the Hotel Everest View for about an hour.

Here, you get to enjoy the view of Mount Everest while sipping a warm cup of coffee. It’s time to capture beautiful photos and videos while having a great breakfast. The comfort of such remote mountain terrain in itself is a blessing. Make sure you make the most of it. After that, you will fly back to Kathmandu and drive to the hotel.

Why the Everest Private Helicopter Tour?

Exclusive Experience: A private helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp offers a private, luxurious, and comfortable experience for friends and family.

For Special Occasions

Some people tend to celebrate their special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, or proposals with cakes and champagne arranged by us. We even have great offers for couples on Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and the New Year. Or, maybe you are just looking for some surprise gifts for your friends and family.

Flight flexibility

You can fly any time of the year, depending on your convenience and favourable weather conditions. You can also adjust your landing points and time.

Safe and Comfortable Trip

You need not worry about straining long treks to witness the world’s highest peak. Relaxing, hassle-free journey can be done from the comfort of your helicopter seat with great views of the Himalayas.

Advanced Booking

Advanced booking for 2024, 2025, and beyond can be done, which gives you time to explore the best customizable itineraries and price comparisons.

Aerial View

This helicopter tour is a unique experience in which you can get a different perspective of the Everest region, apart from the traditional trek. You will be able to get an upclose view of Mount Everest, people walking on traditional trekking routes, geography, etc.

Where Can You Start the EBC Helicopter Tour?

From Kathmandu

This is the easiest and most popular option for the tour. The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour from Kathmandu takes you to the beautiful, lush hills of Nagarkot towards the east. Then, you will fly beyond the Jiri village with the fantastic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Range, and Gaurishankar before you.

Finally, you will fly beyond the highlands of Solukhumbu and land at Lukla. After flying above Everest, you will land at Kala Patthar and Hotel Everest View before returning to Kathmandu. Since we also drive you back to your hotels, there’s nothing to worry about.

From Lukla

This is a perfect tour for a cheaper package and a calm stay in the mountains. You can fly to Lukla on a domestic plane and spend some moments here before flying to Everest Base Camp. The price of the Lukla to Everest Base Camp helicopter is also very low due to the shorter distance.

Helicopter flights to and from Gokyo-Ri

The beauty of Everest Base Camp is already familiar to the world. However, do you know Gokyo Valley, an unrated Sherpa village hidden in the mountains with an even better view? The five pristine lakes of Gokyo are breathtaking. Gokyo-Ri is one of the highest viewpoints among dozens of peaks in the mountain region.

So, if you are looking for some raw adventure, we insist you fly to Gokyo-Ri. The flight to Gokyo-Ri moves north from the Everest Base Camp to Gokyo Valley and then to the nearby hill. After a round-trip to Mount Everest by helicopter, we will return to Lukla and then Kathmandu. The overall trip will be almost 5 hours long.

Helicopter flight to and from Namche:

Most trekkers find it delightful to trek to the magnificent Namche (3440 m). However, the trek then starts to feel challenging due to the high altitude and the risk of altitude sickness. In such a case, we can fly you back to Kathmandu. However, the best offer from Himalayan Masters is to pick you up from Namche and then fly to the Everest base camp, Kala Patthar, and Hotel Everest View before getting to Kathmandu.

Helicopter flight from Gorakshep (Everest Base Camp)

Sometimes, the trekkers to EBC want to return directly to Kathmandu. In that case, we provide a quick pick-up from Gorakshep to Kathmandu. If you want, we will fly you to Kala Patthar for the Everest Panorama view and then fly you back to Kathmandu. This journey is about 151 km and takes about 90 minutes.

Helicopter flight from Phakding

A helicopter tour from Phakding is best for people who have a short hike from Lukla to Phakding and now want to see the Everest region without long, strenuous trekking. Trekkers will be able to see the Everest region directly from Phakding without trekking for many days. The helicopter will take you off from Phakding and return you to Lukla or Kathmandu, depending on your wishes and budget.

Helicopter flight from Syangboche to Lukla or Vice-versa

You even have the option to see Everest by helicopter tour from Syangboche to Lukla or vice versa. Many people just want to see the overall view of the Everest. If you also fall in this category, this might be the perfect option. You can see some of the most amazing monasteries and villages in the Everest region underneath you from the ride. The helicopter will land at Syangboche from Lukla.

Helicopter flight from Thukla or Lobuche

If you are unaware of Thukla, Thukla is a small village en route to the Everest base camp. You will take off for Kala Patthar from Lobuche. After enjoying the views and clicking some photos, you will return to Lukla or Kathmandu as per your demand.

Helicopter flights from Dingboche

If needed, we also launch private helicopter flights to Everest from Dingboche. The flight from Dingboche to Lukla is about 15-20 minutes. If we fly directly to Dingboche, it will take almost 65 minutes, covering about 144 km.

Helicopter flight from Tengboche

Tengboche is often the endpoint of the Everest View Trek or other short treks in the Everest region. If you wish to fly from Tengboche to Everest Base Camp, we will make the arrangements. As promised, you can fly to either Lukla or Kathmandu.

Helicopter Flight During a Short Stay or Transit

This helicopter tour to Everest is a short and rewarding replacement for the prodigious Everest Base Camp trek, which takes about two weeks. It’s ideal for anyone who will be staying in Nepal for a really short time, and it is also ideal for travellers in transit to Kathmandu.

Especially for people who are travelling to Tibet or Bhutan and staying in Nepal for a day. For anyone coming to South Asia for a meeting or conference, this Everest Base Camp helicopter tour can be a perfect tour in Nepal.

Why Everest Helicopter Tour with Himalayan Master?

There are several tour agencies operating throughout Nepal. Only a handful have stood out for their exceptional service and dedication. Not every travel agency you book with can arrange a safe and reliable flight. So, make sure that you book your Mount Everest Heli Tour package from a registered travel agency like Himalayan Masters.

Our experienced team has been delivering exceptional service for more than a decade and has been trusted by many travellers worldwide.

Here’s why you should book our Himalayan master’s helicopter to Everest Base Camp.

• You will be flying with a highly experienced pilot.
• A very friendly and knowledgeable guide will continuously inform you about the Everest Base Camp’s history, culture, and landscape.
• A new helicopter with powerful engines.
• Helicopter equipment with an oxygen cylinder and first aid for emergencies.
• Quick and easy booking procedure.
• Fixed departure dates and private flights taken throughout the year.
• An individualized and customized itinerary is available to meet your needs.
• Flexible cancellation and postponement policy.
• Reasonable price for Everest Base Camp helicopter tour.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour versus Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour and the Everest Base Camp Trek are two distinct ways of exploring the Himalayas.

The Helicopter Tour is an easy, quick and luxurious option that takes around 4-5 hours. You can observe an awe-inspiring panoramic aerial view of Everest and other peaks in its surroundings. Not only that, but you also get to land at Kala Patthar for the most spectacular view, as well as photo and videography.

While the EBC trek offers an immersive experience. You get to interact with the locals and learn, and you get to live amongst them. Though the trek lasts for 10-14 days, demanding trekkers’ physical strength, it allows trekkers to experience mountains, Tibetan culture, mountain villages, monasteries, etc.

So, decide for yourself if you want an easy, luxurious helicopter tour or a thrilling, immersive trekking experience.

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Cost

Various prices for Everest Base Camp helicopter tours have been set for different tour types and categories. We have listed the price details here.

Private Helicopter cost for Everest Helicopter tour

NOTE: Every extra shuttle flight would cost $700 (if the maximum weight limit is exceeded).

How do you book an Everest helicopter tour?

Booking your helicopter to Everest Base Camp with Himalayan Masters is very easy and safe. People of all ages and nations can book our Everest Heli trip within minutes and move a step closer to making the best memories of their lives. So, let’s learn how the booking is done.

1. You need to fill out our booking form here or email us.
2. Fill in all the information included in the form, including the total number of passengers and their names.
3. Mention the amount listed in the table above per your tour type and passenger number (or you can mention the amount we discussed on the phone).
4. Make a payment and save the transaction details for future use. Then, you can follow up with us for more information.

If there is any confusion during the process, you can drop an email here. Or, you can contact us on Viber, WhatsApp, or WeChat at +977 9823636377 (24 hours available). The Himalayan master’s team is also available on Facebook.

NOTE: Read our privacy policy before you make the payment.

Also, please email us your information before the booking so that we can send you special offers and discounts. If you send us the mail, we can also manage the specialized Itinerary for the Mount Everest Helicopter Tour.

What Happens If Delay or Cancel?

If your helicopter tour is delayed due to any reason, you can always postpone the trip.

Due to weather, technical issues in a helicopter, or governmental issues, your flight might get cancelled. In such case, we will postpone the tour to the date that you are comfortable with.

Also, because of your personal, if you have to postpone or cancel the tour, you can inform us about it. Then, we will arrange the tour on a postponed date. In case of cancellation, it can be done easily with a full refund.

However, please go through the cancellation and postponement policies as mentioned below for full disclosure.

Rules For Cancellation and Postponement for Everest Helicopter Tour

• Pre-booking can be done up to 15 days before arrival with a payment of 50% of the total helicopter cost. The remaining payment can be made after you arrive in Nepal.
• Late bookings can be made up to 12 hours before arrival with a payment of 100% of the total EBC helicopter cost.
• Cancellations made 15 days before the trip can be subjected to a full refund. Cancellations after that are not refundable.
• You can make a free postponement up to 15 days before the trip. Postponement between 15 and 3 days before arrival is charged $100.
• Postponements cannot be made 72 hours before the Everest Base Camp helicopter flight. In that case, the tour will be cancelled without a refund of the cost.
• Tour transfers for one or more group members can be done for free up to 3 days before the trip. Any transfer after that will be charged a $100 fee.

NOTE: If the flight cannot be held due to natural disasters, bad weather, or any pandemic, we will postpone your flight to the nearest possible date without any charge. You can also cancel the trip if such news is confirmed 15 days before the trip. If the EBC flight has to be cancelled due to an internal problem with the Himalayan masters, we will refund or postpone your Mount Everest helicopter tour as per your interest.

Essential Safety Measures for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

You might have many things to consider while taking Helicopter for the Everest tour. Here, we will discuss some of the most essential safety measures that you must follow as a safety precaution while on the ride:

Always listen to the crew member:

If this is your first time in a Helicopter, you may need details about the safety precautions during the ride. So please cooperate with the crew members and listen to them properly.

Do not move a lot on the ride:

As you are flying high in the mountain range, you should only move a little during the ride. Yes, the pilot is experienced and keeps the balance, but if you move a lot, the helicopter might become imbalanced, and an accident might occur.

Dress properly:

You do not need to dress much like in a trek for the Everest Base Camp helicopter tour. But still, you should consider the weather conditions and take or wear a dress as per the weather demand.

Altitude sickness:

As you travel from an altitude of 1400 meters (Kathmandu) to 5545 meters, you can easily develop altitude sickness. So, you must be prepared for it. Listen to the crew and take a Diamox if necessary.

Hydrate yourself:

Even though it is a helicopter tour, you must keep yourself hydrated for such a high altitude. Please drink at least 3-4 litres of water on the tour. It is better to avoid heavy and alcoholic drinks and smoking.

Safety Equipment and Gear:

Please carry enough gear and equipment for the helicopter tour. Passengers must wear seatbelts, and emergency exits must be properly understood.

Proper communication:

Proper communication between the crew member and the passenger is crucial. Communication should be proper and clear while on the helicopter and even after landing at the HotelEverest View.

Helicopter Model

Almost all helicopters used in Nepal for mountain flights are model B3. These double-engine helicopters are strong enough to fly in the higher mountainous regions. Their Ariel 2D engine is known to carry passengers swiftly to a higher altitude. These helicopters have seats for five people and a weight limit of 2250 kg.

Distance And Time of Locations during the EBC Heli from Kathmandu

The EBC helicopter tour takes you right into Everest in just 4 to 5 hours. Here, we describe in detail the time and distance between major places on the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour with landings so you know what to expect from the trip.

• The distance from Kathmandu to Lukla is 136 km, and it takes about 25 minutes to get there. At Lukla, we will stop for about 15 minutes.
• Lukla to Namche is 27.5 km and takes only 3 minutes. The stop here can take up to 20 minutes.
• Lukla to Everest Base Camp is about 38 km and takes about 10 minutes.
• Everest Base Camp to Hotel Everest View is about 24 km and takes 8 minutes. Landing at Hotel Everest View takes about 10 minutes.

Things To Carry During Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

There is nothing much you need to carry during this short Mt. Everest helicopter tour. Since we mostly fly on a sunny morning, you only need one down jacket, comfortable clothes, a bottle of water, and maybe some toiletries.

Remember to carry sunglasses, sunscreen, and other personal items. The extra camera and mobile battery can be packed and carried as you wish. However, the most important things to carry are your passport, a visa to Nepal, and proof of insurance.

Permits for the Everest Helicopter Tour

Whether it is helicopter tours or trekking, you will need two Everest permits to traverse into Everest region. Since this is a world heritage site, you must abide by the government as well as local rules.

• The first permit is the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, which costs 3000 NPR per person. The money goes directly into the conversation at a local park.
• Another permit is the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit, which costs 2000 NPR per person, and this money goes to build the local infrastructure.
• The Himalayan Masters cover the cost of these permits. However, some flight companies might ask you to pay for the permit yourself, so check it before you make the booking.
• Personal expenses during Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour with landings.
• Airport tax of 500 NPR (5 USD) for all travelers.
• Breakfast at Hotel Everest View costs almost $30. Since it’s a fancy, popular village at a great height, the food here is expensive.
• Tips, if you wish to.

Best time for Helicopter Everest Base Camp Tour

Above 5000+ meters from sea level, the weather in the Everest region includes Everest Three Passes. However, we can differentiate the four climates of Everest based on temperature and precipitation. Information on the weather in the mountains helps you plan a safe Mount Everest helicopter tour. So, let’s get started.

Autumn: Autumn in Nepal begins in September and ends in November. These are the warmest and calmest months for trekkers and helicopter tours. The temperature at Everest Renjo La in September mornings is about 10°C, and that of Gokyo is about 6°C. September has about 13 rainfall days, and you should plan your trip accordingly.

Winter: Right after the blissful autumn, the harsh winter makes its way into the mountains. The climate during the helicopter tour is the biggest challenge in winter. The temperature drops to -5°C during the nights in January. However, the glittering mountains and snowy scenery provide amusing views for winter travellers.

Summer: Summer in Nepal, especially in eastern Nepal, is the time for rainfall. The pre-monsoon begins in late May with about ten days of rainfall. The climate of Gokyo marks precipitation of 227 mm in July only. August is relatively dry, with some post-monsoon rain. The average daytime temperature goes up to 15 °C, and the nighttime temperature in Namche is about 6°C. Most of the rainfall occurs in the evening, so you are safe for flying.

Spring: This is another beautiful season for the helicopter tour to EBC and trek, with stable weather at Everest. The temperature at Everest in March is about 3°C. However, as the spring becomes prominent, the surroundings become warm, and the maximum temperature can increase to 10°C in May.

The chances of rainfall in the Everest region are meagre, and one shouldn’t worry about the precipitation. The wind speed is about 19 km/hr., which is not that big of a deal. The mountains are still covered with snow from winter, but the sky is clear for the best views of the Mount Everest Helicopter Tour.