The Everest helicopter tour is a popular way for visitors to see the peak without undertaking the strenuous hike. Although you can’t get as close to the peak as from some other vantage points, it nonetheless affords spectacular views of the mountain, which rises almost 5,000 meters above you. Everest is not just one of the world’s most famous mountains but also its most treacherous and volatile peak. Over 200 people have lost their lives on this unforgiving mountain, with many dying from altitude sickness or exposure to extreme cold. It is for these reasons that visitors are advised to set aside a day for acclimatization before undertaking any sort of ascent up Everest — and that includes taking the helicopter tour.
What is the Everest Helicopter Tour?
The Everest helicopter tour is a popular way for visitors to see the peak without undertaking the strenuous hike. Although you can’t get as close to the peak as from some other vantage points, it nonetheless affords spectacular views of the mountain, which rises almost 5,000 meters above you. The standard helicopter tour takes 30 minutes and flies from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, up to Everest Base Camp (EBC) and back. You’ll fly at around 5,000 meters, where you can see the Himalayan and Tibetan landscape below you. On the way back, you’ll get a different perspective of the mountain, which rises impressively high above you — up to almost 9,000 meters. If you want to add another 10 minutes of flight time, you can also visit Guptakashi, the closest village to the Everest Base Camp. Another option is the sunrise tour, which starts at around 4am. This is a very popular tour and should be booked in advance.
Why Take a Helicopter to See Everest?
The main reason people take a helicopter to see the Everest is that they don’t have the time, energy, or money to hike up it. Although it’s true that the view from the helicopter is slightly less spectacular than from other vantage points, it’s still an incredible experience. Moreover, flying offers you the opportunity to see many other sites of interest on the way to the Everest. The most popular Nepal tour packages helicopter tour to Everest starts in Kathmandu and takes visitors to Everest Base Camp (EBC), which is in Sagarmatha National Park in the Solu region of Nepal. Visitors who take the helicopter tour are usually unable to visit other parts of the park, such as the Gokyo lakes.
The Cost of an Everest Helicopter Tour
The cost of the helicopter tour can vary depending on the company you choose. You’ll also pay more for an early helicopter tour, as these are in high demand, with some companies charging even $500 for one seat. The standard Nepal tour packages around $300, but you can find cheaper options if you look around. Many tour operators offer special deals, such as a “two for one” offer (you can take a friend or family member for free), so keep an eye out for these. If you’re on a budget, it’s possible to visit the Everest Base Camp on a shoestring. It can be done on around $15 a day, but this depends on how frugal you are, how many people you’re traveling with, and how long you stay.
When to Go for the Everest Helicopter Tour
The Everest helicopter tour can be booked year-round, although the best times to visit are autumn and spring. This is because the days are cooler, enabling you to fully appreciate the scenery, and the nights are longer, so you can also view the spectacular night sky. If you visit during the summer months, you’re likely to find the days much warmer and the nights colder, which can be uncomfortable. The best months to visit are September, October, and March, when the weather is at its warmest and driest. If you visit during the monsoon season (June to August), you’ll see some spectacular rainbows from the helicopter, but you’ll also have to contend with mudslides and landslides, which can make traveling difficult.
Things to Expect During the Everest Helicopter Tour
The Nepal helicopter tour to the Everest Base Camp lasts 30 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Himalayan landscape below you. The first part of the journey will take you over Kathmandu, including the Boudhanath Stupa, the Bhimsen Stupa, and the Pashupatinath Temple. You’ll then fly past the Bagmati River and into the Himalayas. The second half of the journey takes you over the Everest Base Camp, including the Khumbu Icefall and the Western Cwm, which is one of the most dangerous places on the mountain. You’ll also see several other famous sites from the helicopter, including the Thubnll, Mount Pumori, and Cho Oyu, as well as the Sagarmatha National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Tips for the Everest Helicrapper Tour
Before embarking on the Nepal helicopter tour, make sure that you’re aware of the following advice: – There will be some noise, so bring earplugs to minimize the sound. – If you’re traveling in the off-season, you may have to fly in the open, whereas during the summer, you can usually sit inside the helicopter. – Some helicopters can seat up to five people, while others have space for up to 10. – You can also visit the Everest Base Camp on foot; this takes around 12 days and costs $300. – You should bring something warm to wear as the helicopter can be cold. – You don’t need to take any special precautions against the sun, as helicopters fly at high altitudes and the sun’s rays are not as strong.
Final Words: Is the Helicopter Worth It?
The Everest helicopter tour is an increasingly popular way for visitors to see the peak without undertaking the strenuous hike. Although you can’t get as close to the peak as from some other vantage points, it nonetheless affords spectacular views of the mountain, which rises almost 5,000 meters above you. If you’re visiting Nepal, it’s well worth considering the helicopter tour to the Everest, as it enables you to see the peak in comfort and style.
