Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara

Note: There is no landing flights for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter tour. The Nepal government has prohibited land helicopters on ABC till further notice.

Are you wondering about visiting Annapurna Base Camp but can not do so due to limited time? Then Annapurna base camp helicopter tour from Pokhara is the right choice for you. This heli tour is made for those having a short time.

The helicopter tour flies you over the Annapurna mountain while viewing the breathtaking scenarios. You can begin this heli tour from both Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Annapurna Base Camp is well-known for its trekking routes that last more than a week. But not everyone has several days off in their hand, so this tour was specially made for those with a short time.

Exploring the beauty of Annapurna on foot is terrific, too, but why not catch the greatness from above as well. Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara gives you panoramic views from a bird’s eye perspective.

Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour from Pokhara is one of the popular helicopter tours of Nepal. The tour lasts about 2 hours from Pokhara. You get to see dramatic landscapes, lustful valleys, and stunning mountains of the Annapurna region.

About Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Massif has a peak over 8000 m, thirteen peaks over 7000 m, and sixteen peaks over 6000 m. The massif is 55 km long with Kali Gandaki Gorge in the west, Marshyandi river in north and east, and Pokhara in the south.

Annapurna I Main is the tenth highest peak globally, situated at the height of 8091 m above sea level. It resides in the north-central part of Nepal in the Himalayan region.

The Annapurna region is one of the most heavily glaciated areas of Nepal. And Annapurna Base Camp is a popular destination in this region that lies at an altitude of 4130 m above sea level.

To reach the Annapurna base camp, you will be passing through Mt Machhapuchhre, known for its unique beauty. Along the way, you will see several peaks such as Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machapuchhre, etc.

The base camp lies inside Annapurna Sanctuary, a high glacial basin surrounded by a ring of mountains. The sanctuary’s dense tropical forests have various plants and flowers such as rhododendron, bamboo, etc.

The entire Annapurna region is inhabited by the Gurung people, a native of these areas. The Annapurna Sanctuary is a sacred place for them as it is believed to be home to several deities.

The trails towards Annapurna Base Camp begin by walking through beautiful forests. As you gain altitude, the scenarios change from tropical jungles to snowy peaks.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour

  • Bird’s eye view of snowy peaks and landscapes
  • Fly above the Annapurna region
  • View peaks such as Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and many more
  • Explore the idyllic valley
  • Aerial view of the beautiful Pokhara valley
  • Fly-over Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Breathtaking view of Fewa and Tilicho lake
  • Heartily breakfast at the Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour Itinerary

Day 1 :
If you are in Pokhara, you can choose this short heli tour to visit one of the world’s highest peaks. Our Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour begins from Pokhara. To know about the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara itinerary in detail, read further below:

Phase 01: Pick up from Pokhara Hotel and drop off at the airport.

Your Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara begins early morning. After waking up, you freshen up and wait for the representative to pick you up. Arriving at your hotel, you enter the vehicle that takes you to the airport.

Phase 02: Fly to Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara Airport

Dropping you off at the Pokhara airport, you pass through airport security and get your boarding pass. The officer in the airport will also provide you essential information and guidelines. After that, you board the flight to Annapurna Base Camp. Soaring into the sky, you get to see various peaks such as Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, many more. You can also see the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge, Annapurna conservation area, and scattered settlements from above. During clear weather conditions, the scenarios look breathtakingly beautiful.

Phase 03: Explore Annapurna Base Camp and Enjoy Warm Breakfast

After 25 to 30 min flights, you arrive and land at your destination, Annapurna Base Camp. The aerial view looks astonishing, but the scenarios in front of you will swipe you off your feet. You get about 30 min landing time due to altitude problems. You will be standing at an altitude above 3500 m in this heli tour. It takes 3 to 4 days for trekkers to reach here, but with the Annapurna Heli tour, you get the base camp in minutes. You can visit and explore the nearby places and enjoy the incredible view of the Annapurna Massif. You have a Heartily breakfast in the base camp surrounded by snow-clad mountains.

Phase 04: Fly back to Pokhara airport from ABC

After a heartful breakfast, you spend some time clicking pictures and complimenting the beauty of nature. Enjoying your time in the base for one last time, you head back to Pokhara Airport. Viewing magnificent views of peaks and green valleys, you return. Enjoy the aerial views and free yourself from any kind of stress.

Phase 05: Landing and drop off at your Hotel

After about 30 min air time, you land at the Pokhara airport. Your representatives will be waiting for you at the terminal before your arrival. Then, picking you up from the terminal point, they give you a ride back to your hotel. Dropping you off at the hotel, the Annapurna Helicopter Base camp tour ends here. We hope you had a great time with our crew. If you are looking for more Pokhara activities, then a sightseeing tour, boating session, etc., are available.

FAQS

What is the highest altitude in the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter tour?

4200 m above sea level is the highest altitude you will reach in the Annapurna Heli tour.

How long will we stay at the Annapurna Base Camp?

The landing time depends according to the season and weather conditions. Typically, you land for about 30 to 35 minutes for breakfast and sightseeing. You have your breakfast enjoying the marvelous views from the Base Camp. However, if the weather condition is bad, you might land for a short time and skip breakfast as well.

Are taking photographs possible during the Annapurna Base Camp flight?

Yes, taking photographs are possible during your flight. You get ample chances to take pictures of the magnificent peaks and landscapes. Aerial photography is the best opportunity to capture some of the great images of nature.

Is our pilot experienced enough?

All the helicopter tour pilots are highly professional with years of experience flying helicopters in mountainous terrain. Our main preference is to provide you with an experienced group for a better time. Also, the pilots have excellent knowledge of delivering reliable and complete information about the peaks.

Can solo travelers join a group for the Annapurna Base Camp Heli tour?

Yes, solo travelers can join the group for the Annapurna Helicopter tour. It is best to share flights while traveling alone as it is cheaper. But if you want to travel in luxury, you can book a private charter flight as well. However, it will cost more than the group flights.

Will all the passengers get a window seat in this helicopter tour?

Yes, the Annapurna base camp heli tour is sightseeing-based, so everyone gets a windowseat. You can enjoy the view without any disturbances from your fellow companion.

Can we book private flights to Annapurna Base Camp?

Yes, private flights are available all year round to Annapurna Base Camp. You will not share flights with other guests if you charter private helicopter tours. You can hire a private helicopter tour from Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Does weather affect the helicopter tour?

Yes, it affects the heli tour as the weather around high altitudes is unpredictable. However, the pilot gets the latest update on the weather beforehand, making it easier to make flight decisions. The newest technology is used to ensure a secure and wonderful heli tour.

Is the Annapurna Base Camp Heli tour safe?

Among the various options to reach Annapurna Base Camp, the helicopter tour is one of the safest trips. It is less troublesome and unconstrained. The helicopter goes through several maintenance periods before a flight. To date, the reports of fatal mishaps are rare.

How long is the heli ride from Kathmandu or Pokhara?

The Annapurna heli ride takes about one and half hours from Pokhara, with 30 minutes of ground time. And it takes approximately two hours from Kathmandu.

Is altitude sickness a problem in the Annapurna helicopter tour?

Altitude sickness is rarely a problem in helicopter tours as the landing time is short to prevent it. You will directly reach above 3000 m altitude without any acclimatization, so ground time is limited.

Do we make any stops other than in base camp in this heli tour?

No, you only make one stop, and that’s in Annapurna Base Camp. This tour’s distance is about 40 km from Pokhara, so more than one stop is unnecessary.

At what time are passengers required to board the plane?

Passengers are required to arrive 30 min before the given flight time.

Will the helicopter wait if I am late for boarding?

Yes, the helicopter will wait for a particular time in case you run late. But it is better to inform the airport representatives that you are on the way. Even if you don’t notify, the staff will contact you. However, if the weather conditions are not so great, they might consider it a No-show and cancel it automatically.

Can I cancel my flights?

Yes, you can cancel your flights as we understand things don’t always go as planned. But the refund policy depends upon the terms and conditions of the agency.

Is there any age restriction?

No, there is still not any age restriction informed by the government. So, the heli tour is suitable for any age group travelers.

Do you carry an oxygen cylinder for emergencies?

Yes, every helicopter carries one in case of emergencies.

Another starting point for Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara

Our Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour starts from Pokhara, but you can begin it from Kathmandu. The duration and distance are longer from there, but you can start it from there if you are already in Kathmandu.

The overall flight time is about 2 hours, and it is a bit expensive as well. You need to wake up earlier than from Pokhara if you are traveling from Kathmandu.

Highlights of ABC Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu

  • Exciting views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna ranges, etc
  • Sunrise view from the Base camp
  • Heartful breakfast at base camp
  • Explore around Annapurna Base Camp

Outline Itinerary

Pick up from your Hotel and Drop off at the Domestic airport.

Fly to Annapurna Base Camp from Kathmandu

Explore around the base camp and have a healthy breakfast

Fly back to Kathmandu

Land at the domestic airport

Drive back to your hotel

When is the Best Time for going on the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour?

You can fly all year round, but you should have clear visibility as bad weather conditions can hamper your flight schedule.

Spring, Autumn, Winter, and Monsoon are the four seasons of Nepal. Among these seasons, Spring and Autumn have the best weather for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour.

Winter and Monsoon are also favorable, but you might face delays and cancellations due to weather complications. We have written a brief explanation of each season below:

Spring Season

It is the beginning of a new chapter throughout the country. Spring brings colorful flowers, greenery, and warm weather along with it. This season starts from March and ends in May.

During spring, the weather and temperature are sunny and bright. Spring is a good month for Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara. You get clear views of the peaks and greenery filling the Annapurna region.

The temperature slowly increases with each passing time, and it ranges from 16 to 23 degrees Celsius. The days are long, making it perfect for trekking, while the nights are short and cool. Among the months of spring, May is the warmest time of the year.

Autumn Season

Autumn Season is the highest time of the year. Monsoon has just ended, so the views are clear, and the atmosphere is fresh and cool. Autumn Season lasts from September to November.

You can see slight rainfall in the earlier week of September, but it gets warm and bright by the mid of the month. The weather and temperature are also at peak during this season.

This season is the best time for the Annapurna Base camp Helicopter tour from Pokhara. The weather is calm, with days featuring the blue sky and bright sun. The temperature ranges from 15 to 24 degrees Celsius during this season.

Winter Season

The Winter season is the off-season for trekking but an excellent time for helicopter tours. This season is the time for snowfall occurrence in high altitudes covering the peaks in white.

Winter season starts in December and last till February. Trekking to high altitudes is a challenge due to the snowy path. But helicopter tours are possible during these times.

Early morning weather has superior visibility, but sometimes fog can be a disturbance. During foggy weather, the flights are delayed or canceled. The temperature ranges from 9 to 12 degrees Celsius during this time.

Monsoon Season

Monsoon Season is the least preferred time for trekking as well as helicopter tours. This season is the time for heavy rainfall all over the country. The season begins in June and ends in August.

The earlier weeks of June and the ending weeks of August have lower chances of rainfall, so helicopter tours are possible during this time. During this time, dark clouds can obstruct your view during the day, but it might not be a problem during the mornings.

The flights can be delayed or canceled during heavy rainfall or bad weather conditions. So, you need to study the forecast before making your Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara.

Annapurna Helicopter Tour Options

There are two possible options to complete your Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara. These options are Charter basis private flight and Group joining flight.

Private Charter Helicopter Tour

For Charter Basis Private flight, you can fly single or with your group at your schedule and time. The flight is possible from both Kathmandu and Pokhara. During clear days, the flight operates any time of the day.

Group Joining Helicopter Tour

The Group joining Helicopter tour operates from Pokhara. The Group flight operates from Pokhara airport. Five different people will be sharing the cost of a single flight and fly to Annapurna Base Camp. For booking group flights, you need to inform the agency beforehand.

Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour from Pokhara Cost

ABC helicopter tour is a budgeted heli tour that is completely safe and affordable. Annapurna Base Camp Heli tour from Pokhara cost depends on your starting destination and group size.

The Annapurna Heli Tour Cost will be slightly lower if you are starting from Pokhara rather than Kathmandu. The flight takes about 2 hours from Kathmandu and two and a half hours from Pokhara.

If you are looking for a lavish adventure choosing a private VIP helicopter flight is a great choice, but it costs more than group flights. If you are a single traveler joining group flights will be cheaper.

A single helicopter can carry five people or 500 kg per flight till ABC. Private Helicopters cost about USD 3500 from Kathmandu and USD 1500 from Pokhara. The group joining helicopter costs about USD 250 per person.

Safety Measures for Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour

  • You need to follow the pilot’s instructions while entering and exiting the aircraft.
  • Don’t exchange seats with a fellow passenger in the air.
  • Don’t move around during the flight.
  • Always secure your personal belongings.
  • Do not take your hands or head out the window.
  • No smoking inside the aircraft at any time
  • Always tighten the seat belt in-flight.

Health and Safety Protocols during COVID-19 pandemic

  • Helicopters are thoroughly sanitized and cleaned before, after, and between the flights.
  • All the crew members, including pilots, will be wearing a face shield throughout the flight.
  • All guests will screen for mandatory temperature before entering the aircraft.
  • All guests should wear face protection or masks before entering the helicopter.
  • Employees and guests will sanitize or wash their hands regularly during the flight.

Reasons to Choose Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour

Escape the noise and crowd

Annapurna Base Camp is a popular destination for trekking in this region. Thousands of trekkers from around the globe visit the trail each year. So, the ABC heli tour is the perfect way to escape the crowd. You get once in a lifetime personal experience on this tour.

Time Saver

One of the best reasons is being a time saver. You can skip long days of trekking and visit the base and return in hours. The tour was made thinking about people with limited time. The tour begins early morning and finishes within hours, covering all the highlights of Annapurna Base Camp.

Exciting experiences

You get to visit the base camp of the world’s tenth highest peak. The beautiful views of nature for the base camp are not to be missed. The ABC helicopter tour provides you with exciting experiences.

Panoramic view

Annapurna Heli tour gives the bird’s eye view of the scenarios from above. You get to see the beautiful city of lakes, landscapes, turquoise lakes, mountain views, and green hills from the chopper. Also, the close-up glimpse of Mt Annapurna and peaks surrounding it.

Suitable for any age group and No physical fitness required

Another reason is the tour is suitable for any age group. It has no age boundary and restrictions. People from any age group can do this helicopter tour. It also doesn’t require any physical fitness making it comfortable for travelers of any age.

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Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara
From $ 350
/ Adult

Trip Facts

  • Pokhara or Kathmandu
  • 5 to 6 pax
  • Helicopter
  • 4,130 m
  • Fitness not Required
  • Autumn and Spring season