An Everest Helicopter Tour offers a breathtaking and efficient way to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, without the demands of a lengthy trek. These tours are ideal for travelers with limited time or those seeking a luxurious adventure.
🚁 Tour Overview
🕓 05:30 AM – Hotel Pickup and Transfer to Airport
Your driver picks you up from your hotel in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (Domestic Terminal).
🕕 06:00 AM – Pre-Flight Briefing & Boarding
Meet your pilot and ground crew.
Receive a safety briefing.
Weight check and seat assignments.
🕡 06:30 AM – Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,845 m)
Duration: ~45 minutes
Stunning aerial views of Kathmandu Valley, terraced fields, and Himalayan foothills.
Refueling stop at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla, known for its dramatic mountain runway.
🕖 07:15 AM – Fly from Lukla to Pheriche (4,371 m)
Duration: ~20 minutes
This is the staging point for higher-altitude shuttle flights due to weight limits.
If you’re a group of more than 3, you’ll be split into shuttles for the next leg.
🕢 07:40 AM – Shuttle Flight to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) – Landing
Duration: ~10 minutes each way
Short landing (~10 minutes) at Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint of Everest.
Enjoy 360° views of Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and Khumbu Icefall.
Quick photo and video opportunity — the altitude doesn’t allow long stays.
🕗 08:30 AM – Fly to Hotel Everest View (3,880 m) for Breakfast
Duration: ~60 minutes
Land at the Hotel Everest View, the highest-located hotel in the world.
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with Everest and other Himalayan giants in sight.
🕘 09:30 AM – Fly Back to Lukla
Refueling stop or crew change if required.
🕤 10:00 AM – Return Flight to Kathmandu
Duration: ~45–50 minutes
Final aerial glimpses of Himalayan peaks and Sherpa villages.
🕚 11:00 AM – Arrival in Kathmandu + Hotel Drop-off
Return to the airport and transfer back to your hotel.
End of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The entire experience typically lasts between 4 to 5 hours.
💰 Pricing (2025 Estimates) (1-5 Pax)
Group Sharing: Approximately USD 1,350 to USD 1,500 per person.
Private Charter: Ranges from USD 5,000 to USD 7,500 per flight, depending on group size and helicopter capacity.
✅ Cost Inclusions
Helicopter Charter Fee: Scenic roundtrip flight: Kathmandu → Lukla → Everest Region → Kathmandu, Landing at key viewpoints (e.g., Kala Patthar, Hotel Everest View)
Airport Transfers: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Kathmandu to the domestic terminal
Experienced Pilot: Government-certified pilot with high-altitude flight experience
Oxygen Cylinder (if needed): Carried for safety in case of altitude discomfort (not usually used)
❌ Not Typically Included
Personal Expenses: Snacks, tips, and personal shopping
Travel Insurance: Not mandatory but highly recommended (ensure it covers high-altitude helicopter evacuation)
Permits, Entry Fees, and Airport Tax: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (Nrs. 3000 per Person), Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Fee (Nrs. 2000 Per Person), Airport Tax (Nrs. 500 per person)
Breakfast at Hotel Everest View: Gourmet breakfast with panoramic views of Mount Everest
Unforeseen Costs: Any expenses arising from flight delays, cancellations, or weather issues.
📅 Best Time to Fly
The optimal seasons for Everest helicopter tours are:
Spring: February to May
Autumn: October to December
These periods offer clear skies and stable weather, ensuring the best visibility of the Himalayan peaks.
🧳 What to Bring
Windproof down jacket
Warm base layers
Comfortable shoes and warm socks
Sun hat and UV-protection sunglasses
Reusable water bottle
Camera
Passport and necessary permits
Note: Weight restrictions apply due to high-altitude flying conditions.
⚠️ Important Considerations
Altitude: The tour reaches elevations up to 5,545 meters. While the risk of altitude sickness is minimal due to the short duration, individuals with health concerns should notify beforehand.
Weather Dependence: Flights are subject to weather conditions and may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons.
Regulations: As of 2025, there are discussions about restricting non-essential helicopter flights above 4,000 meters to reduce environmental impact.
✅ Booking Tips
Advance Reservation: Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Flexible Scheduling: Allow buffer days in your itinerary to accommodate potential weather-related changes.