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Everest Heli Sightseeing Tour

The Everest Heli Sightseeing Tour is a luxurious way to experience the majestic view of the world’s highest peak. This trip doesn’t just fly you over to check the mountains from your window seat; you also get an experience of the ambiance of the Everest base camp and other key locations.

Trip Facts
Destinations 1+
Trip Facts
Trip Durations 01 Day
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Trip Difficulty
Easy
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Meals
Breakfast
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Activities Heli Sightseeing
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Accomodation
N/A
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Max Altitude 5545m
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Best Season Fall & Spring
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Start/End Point Kathmandu

Everest Heli Sightseeing overview

Do the stories of successful summiteers of the Everest region excite you? If you also want to experience this grandeur of the peak of the world but are not prepared to trek for days on the rusty trails, then the luxury Everest sightseeing tour is for you. This tour lets you hover over the Everest region, as well as allows you to get up close with the mighty peak at two different stops, like the Everest View Hotel at Syangboche and Kala Patthar.

Starting with the view of Langtang ranges and Lirung Himal, the heli-ride to Lukla itself will be full of many awe-inspiring moments as you get to enjoy snow-capped peaks from the closest distance possible. Upon reaching Lukla, Syangboche, and possibly Kala Patthar, you will get to experience the air of Everest even though it is for a shorter period of time.

The breakfast with a view of Everest is one of the major highlights of this tour, which is worth being in your core memory for a lifetime.

There is also another alternative route for exploring Everest on a helicopter tour. Instead of Syangboche, you can also choose an alternative Everest Heli-sightseeing tour with a breakfast view from Kongde. Additionally, you can also choose to explore the nearby Gokyo Lake on this Heli excursion if the blue waters of the Himalayas sound interesting to you.

If you are interested in exploring more than just Everest, the Annapurna Heli Tour, Annapurna Base Camp trek or Manaslu Circuit trek are also other packages that you can check.

Everest Heli Sightseeing highlights

  • Lukla Airport (2,800 m) for refueling and a quick stroll.
  • Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for up to 15 minutes of panoramic views and photos.
  • Syangboche/Everest View Hotel (3,800 m) Scenic flight through panoramic view of mountain ranges of the Himalayas of Nepal.
  • An adventurous flight to an altitude above 5000 meters.
  • A close-up view of Everest and other mountain ranges of the Khumbu region.
  • Breakfast with a view of the sunken face of Everest from Hotel Everest View.
  • Aerial view of the significant highlights of the Everest region, such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche etc.

Everest Heli Sightseeing Key Attractions

  • Scenic helicopter flight from Kathmandu with aerial views of valleys, rivers, and hills.

  • Panoramic flyover of Mt. Everest and other Himalayan peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

  • Landing at Kala Patthar (5,545 m)(18,192 feet)/ EBC (5,364m)(17,598 feet) for the best close-up view of Everest , perfect for photos.

  • Breakfast at Everest View Hotel with stunning Himalayan scenery from the terrace.

  • Aerial views of Sherpa villages like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche Monastery.

  • Full Everest experience in half a day, ideal for those with limited time or trekking challenges.

Everest Heli Sightseeing Itinerary

Day01

Activity 1 : Drive to the Airport

Your Everest Heli sightseeing tour begins with an early morning drive to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our company representative will pick you up from your accommodation at 5:30 am

Day01

Activity 2 : Fly to Lukla Airport

After a necessary check-in procedure at the airport, you will board a helicopter and fly to Lukla Airport in the Everest region. The 45-minute flight will take you to an altitude of 2800 meters (9816 feet). After landing, the Heli will briefly stop to refuel, but you can take a stroll and look around the Lukla area.

Day01

Activity 3 : Lukla to Everest Base Camp/Kalapathar

The actual exploration of the beauty of the Everest region begins with a flight over the Khumbu region as the Heli takes off from Lukla. You will come across aerial views of Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche before finally reaching to the area of Everest base camp. Highlights of this particular Heli-ride include a close-up view of Everest and other neighboring peaks. You will most likely catch a glimpse of peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and more. The Heli-ride will take a short stop at Kalapathar (depending on the government Rules) at an altitude of 5545 meters (18,192 ft). Since high altitude often has unpredictable weather, you will have 15 minutes to enjoy the panoramic view and click your pictures.

Day01

Activity 4 : Kalapathar/Everest Base Camp to Syangboche (Everest View Hotel)

After taking off from Kalapathar/EBC, the helicopter will fly to Syangboche at Everest View Hotel, a picturesque village in the Khumbu region. Situated at an altitude of 3800 meters (12730 feet), this village is also called the gateway to Everest. We will pause for an hour at this stop while having breakfast with a view from the Everest View Hotel.

Day01

Activity 5 : Syangboche (Everest View Hotel to Lukla)

When you are done soaking up the cold breeze and majestic view of Mount Everest, we will fly back to Lukla Airport. The helicopter will briefly stop to refuel at the airport before taking you back to the capital city.

Day01

Activity 6 : Lukla to Kathmandu

The most exciting trip to the tallest mountain in the world will end with a Heli-ride back to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. On your ride back, you can enjoy the mesmerizing mountain ranges and capture them in your memories forever, including the pictures. Our team representative will drop you off at your hotel as you land.

Everest Heli Sightseeing Cost Includes

  • Private hotel transport to/from Tribhuvan Domestic Airport
  • 4-5 hours of helicopter sightseeing, including Kala Patthar landing (up to 5545 m) and EBC fly-over 
  • In-flight oxygen, if needed
  • Onboard medical kit
  • All government taxes and airport charges
  • Company service charges

Everest Heli Sightseeing Cost Excludes

  • Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu entry permits
  • Breakfast and photo stop at Everest View Hotel
  • Personal gear/jackets
  • Gratuities or donations
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation cost
  • Optional extras like private charters or group upgrades

Everest Heli Sightseeing Extra Information

Due to unpredictable weather conditions, air traffic regulations, or government restrictions, landing at Kala Patthar or Everest Base Camp may not always be permitted.
In such cases, the helicopter will perform a scenic flyover of these locations instead, ensuring you still enjoy aerial views of Everest, Khumbu Glacier, and surrounding peaks.
Your safety is our top priority, and we always operate in compliance with civil aviation guidelines and local municipality rules.

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US$ 1365

Everest Heli Sightseeing Map

Packing List for Everest Heli Sightseeing Tour

The key is to prioritize lightweight, durable, and versatile gear. It's important to test and familiarize yourself with your equipment before embarking on a trek. If you find a particular brand that meets your criteria for quality, that's great, but always prioritize functionality and reliability.

Regular Clothing

Regular Clothing

  • Comfortable pants
  • Sleeping wear/night suits
  • Undergarments & sports bra
  • A pair of slippers
  • A few pairs of T-shirts and casual pants
  • Raincoats
Clothing for Heli-Tour

Clothing for Heli-Tour

  • Body warmer tops and pants
  • Warmers and technical fabric base layer
  • Fleece jacket/pullovers
  • Warm pants
  • Waterproof/Windproof jackets
  • Waterproof/Windproof pants
  • Warm socks & Shoes
  • Hard shell outer gloves
  • Warm caps/Knitted hats
Sun Protection

Sun Protection

  • Caps or Sun hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Shades (preferably polarized)
  • Sunscreen
Essential Medicine & First-aid

Essential Medicine & First-aid

Even though your trekking guide will carry the necessary medications for altitude sickness and first aid kits to help in case of any accidents, you also need to have personal kits. A personal first aid kit needs to have the following elements:

  • Cough syrups
  • Ointment
  • Cough syrup
  • Ointments
  • Antiseptic creams
  • Mosquito repellents
  • Electrolyte
Other Necessities

Other Necessities

  • Toiletry kit
  • Passport
  • Extra copies of passport-sized photos (required for permits and other docs)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • UV water purifier or Water purification tables
  • Hydration bladder
  • Towel
  • Pillowcases
  • Waterproof bags (for carrying money and necessary documents)
Optional Equipment

Optional Equipment

  • Cameras and mobile phones
  • Power banks (preferably solar-charged)
  • Binoculars
  • Pee funnel and pee bottle
  • Whistle
  • Thermos bottle for hot drinks and water
  • Binoculars
  • Cards/books/diaries

Everest Heli Sightseeing FAQs

What exactly is the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?

A one-day helicopter excursion departing from Kathmandu, flying to Lukla, Kala Patthar and/or Everest Base Camp with photo stops and a breakfast stop at Everest View Hotel.

Why choose a helicopter tour instead of trekking?

It offers a spectacular Everest experience in hours rather than days, ideal for those with limited time or who wish to avoid strenuous trekking.

How long does the full tour take?

Typically, it takes around  4-6 hours, including hotel pickup, flight legs, landings, and return to Kathmandu.

Do all tours land at Kala Patthar or Everest Base Camp?

Not always. Due to weather or government restrictions, landings may be substituted with scenic flyovers.

What altitude do we reach?

The height of Kala Patthar is 5,545 m, flights can reach up to 6,200 m depending on approach and airspace clearance.

Is landing at Base Camp guaranteed?

Landing at EBC depends on conditions like wind, visibility and terrain, some operators aim for a “touching distance” flyover instead but for Autumn season (Sep-Nov), we guarantee the landing at EBC.

Are pilots experienced at high altitudes?

Yes, Pilots are trained specifically for Himalayan flying and operate under strict local aviation regulations. Most of them are highly experienced with more flying hours in their hand. 

Is the tour safe?

Helicopter tours follow rigorous safety protocols, pre-flight checks, and onboard oxygen support above 3,000 m. Yes, pilots are trained specifically for Himalayan flying and operate under strict local aviation regulations.

What is the best season to tour?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are preferred for clearer skies and stable weather.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?

Flights may be delayed or rescheduled, operators usually refund or rebook guests if safety is compromised.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear layered clothing with a windproof jacket, warm gloves, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes, carry camera batteries and a power bank.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Minimal risk, as time spent at high elevations is brief, still advisable to hydrate and watch for mild symptoms.

Is age or fitness a barrier to participate?

Generally, no passengers need to be in reasonable health. Those with heart or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor first.

Is oxygen provided in-flight?

Yes, supplemental oxygen is onboard and automatically available above certain altitudes (>3,000 m).

How many people can the helicopter hold?

Typically about 5 passengers plus one pilot, weight limits may be capped at 500 kg.

Can solo travelers join group flights?

Yes, many operators offer group-joining options to share costs and departures are frequent during peak seasons.

What permits are needed?

You will need permits such as Sagarmatha National Park entry tickets and Khumbu Rural Municipality entry permits.

Are there hidden or extra fees?

Generally not, but some operators may charge separately for breakfast, gear rental, or airport transfers.

What are the highlights of the Everest Heli Sightseeing Tour?

The Everest Heli Sightseeing Tour provides aerial views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. You will land at the Kala Patthar (5,545m) for stunning photos, breakfast at the Everest View Hotel in Syangboche.

Why choose a helicopter tour instead of trekking to Everest Base Camp?

A helicopter tour saves time, avoids long trekking days, and is perfect for travelers who want the Everest experience in a single day without physical strain.

What is the difference between an Everest Heli Tour and the Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp trek takes an average of 10–14 days with hiking and acclimatization, while the Everest Heli Tour offers the same scenic views in just 4–5 hours.

What is the Everest Heli Trek?

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour combines scenic view of the Everest Base Camp and flying back to Kathmandu by helicopter. It’s ideal for those who want to see the mountains and quickly return.

What route does the helicopter follow?

The typical route of the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour involves : Kathmandu – Lukla – Namche – Tengboche – Pheriche – Kala Patthar – Everest View Hotel – Lukla – Kathmandu.

What is the highest altitude reached?

The highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters, offering the most panoramic Everest views.

Can I see Mount Everest from the helicopter?

Yes, on clear days you’ll have uninterrupted views of Everest and other Himalayan peaks including Nupse, Lotse, Ama Dablam.

What type of helicopter is used?

Most tours use AS350 B3e helicopters, designed for high altitude flights in the Himalayas.

Are luxury Everest Heli Tour packages available?

Yes. Luxury Everest Heli Tour packages include private flights, champagne breakfasts, and upgraded seating.

Can I customize my Everest helicopter experience?

Yes. Private helicopter charters let you choose landing spots, extend time on the ground, and add photography services.

Can I book special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries?

Yes. You can celebrate your special moments offering custom celebration packages in the Everest region.

Can solo travelers join a group flight?

Yes. Travelling in a group flight will be a cost-effective way to join the tour.

Are there group discounts?

Yes, a group of 4–5 passengers often get reduced rates for a Everest Heli Trek.

How long does the Everest Heli Tour take?

The Everest Heli Tour takes about 4 to 5 hours from Kathmandu and back.

Can I land at Everest Base Camp?

Helicopters usually land at Kala Patthar for better views. Landing at Base Camp is possible in some conditions, but it’s less scenic.

Do all tours land at Kala Patthar?

Yes, weather permitting, Kala Patthar is the main landing point for about 15 minutes. You can click some photo graphs and enjoy the view.

Can I take a helicopter to Everest and return the same day?

Yes. The Everest Heli Tour is designed to enjoy the mountains and return the same day.

How do I book an Everest Helicopter Tour?

You can book Everest Heli Tour online, through a travel agency, or directly with a tour company like Awesome Holidays Nepal.

How early should I book?

At least prebook 1–2 months in advance during peak seasons (spring and autumn).

How can I pay?

We accept credit cards, bank transfers, or cash.

What is the cancellation policy?

Most companies offer a full refund for bad weather cancellations and a partial refund for other causes.

What’s included in the Everest Heli Tour?

The Everest Heli Tour includes flight costs, permits, breakfast at Everest View Hotel, an English speaking guide, and airport transfers. This may vary depending on operators.

Are meals and drinks included?

The package usually includes breakfast but the beverages are not in the plan.

Are there extra fees?

The package may not include the National park fees, permits and airport taxes that must be paid in cash before departure.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Short landings duration minimize the risk of AMS but you might feel mild effects of altitude sickness. 

Is oxygen available?

Yes, the helicopters are equipped with emergency oxygen cylinders.

How does weather affect the flight?

The helicopters are operated only in clear weather. The poor weather may cause delays or reschedule.

What permits are required?

Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a TIMS card are arranged by your tour operators.

What makes this trip different ?

Environment-Friendly Initiative
Environment-Friendly Initiative

  • Awesome Holidays Nepal believes in contributing to the wellness of the environment while promoting adventure and tourist destinations in Nepal.
  • For every visitor who books a trip or trek with us, we plant a fruit tree in barren lands in collaboration with community forests.

Giving Back to the Community
Giving Back to the Community

  • Awesome Holidays believes that the native residents know any destination better than an outsider. Thus, the guides, porters, and travel companions who will serve you through the trek or tours are local residents of that particular region.
  • As a part of our communal service, Awesome Holidays is also contributing to the welfare of street dogs by feeding them every week.
Best Price
USD1365 per
Person
Price may vary according to the group size.

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