Taking a helicopter direct from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp should be on your bucket list.  

Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour suits people of all ages and abilities.  Even if you have previously trekked to base camp or around the Everest Region, you get a unique birds-eye view and thrilling feel on this tour. 

And it’s not as expensive as you may think. In any case, placing a monetary value on such an exceptional experience is hard. 

What is Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?

At Magical Nepal, our Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour offers a fast, scenic way to see Everest without the need of days of trek. It’s perfect for travelers who are short of time or can’t hike at high altitude.

The tour starts in Kathmandu and fly directly to Khumbu region, passing through Lukla, Namche Bazaar and Dudh Koshi Valley. Along the way you will see incredible view of snow capped mountains, deep valleys and Sherpa villages.

Due to new regulation, helicopters no longer land at Kalapatthar or Base Camp. Instead your scenic stop will be at the famous Everest View Hotel (3,880m) – one of the highest luxury hotel in the world. From here you will see panoramic view of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and other giant peaks while having tea or breakfast.

Though there’s no landing at higher altitude, the flight path will give you dramatic view of Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Glacier and surrounding giants from above. You will get excellent photo opportunity without the physical strain of trekking.

This tour is best for families, senior travelers and those who want to see Everest in just few hours. Flights are scheduled in the morning for better weather and visibility.

At Magical Nepal, we ensure your Everest Base Camp helicopter tour is safe, comfortable and unforgettable – from take off to landing. It’s the easiest way to see Everest up close with all the beauty and none of the blisters.

How Much Does it Cost?

There are two choices when reserving a helicopter: reserve the whole helicopter or just a seat on a group flight. The basic costs are given here, but please see the end of the page for seasonal costs, which may differ.

• It costs USD 4,500 to charter the whole flight.
• It costs USD 1,499 per person on a group flight. 

In addition, there is the Sagarmatha National Park fee of  Rs3,000 (USD28) per person and airport tax of NPR 500 (USD 3)

The helicopter lands at Everest View Hotel, from which you can get breakfast.  And, yes, you should – this is the highest and most awe-inspiring breakfast you will ever have. Overlooking Mt Everest and its neighbors, the view from your breakfast table on the terrace is unforgettable. 

What’s the Typical Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Itinerary?

The EBC helicopter tour itinerary is all about comfort, speed and Himalayan views – in just a few hours. It gives you a once in a lifetime perspective of Mount Everest without the physical challenge of trekking.

Kathmandu to Lukla to Everest Base Camp

The journey starts early in the morning from Kathmandu’s domestic terminal. From here you’ll take off on a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region.

After a short stop for refueling in Lukla, the helicopter will follow the classic Everest trekking trail – flying over Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and Dingboche. You’ll see deep valleys, hanging bridges and traditional Sherpa villages from above.

As you go higher, the flight will follow the Dudh Koshi River and glide past iconic peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Nuptse. Soon you’ll circle above Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu Icefall and get a view that trekkers can’t see from the ground.

The helicopter ride to Everest Base Camp offers great photo opportunities of the glacier and the highest peak in the world – all from the air.

Kalapatthar Landing (No Longer Allowed)

Kalapatthar was once the highest landing point on the Everest helicopter tour, at 5,545 meters. It offered the best view of Mount Everest – better than from Base Camp itself.

But due to updated aviation regulations and environmental concerns, helicopter landings at Kalapatthar are no longer permitted. This change helps to protect the fragile alpine terrain and ensures safer flight operations at high altitude.

Now most tours land at the Everest View Hotel near Syangboche instead. From here you can still see wide angle views of Everest and surrounding peaks while having breakfast or tea.

Although the itinerary has changed, the views are still the same. You’ll still fly above the Base Camp region and get crystal clear views of the Himalayas that trekkers never get to see.

At Magical Nepal we ensure your EBC helicopter tour itinerary is all about comfort, safety and unforgettable views – without missing the magic of Everest.

What is the Difference Between Chartering a Flight and Joining a Group Flight?

If you charter the whole helicopter, you can bring your friends and family along, or you can have the whole helicopter for yourself. Consider hiring a professional photographer to get those amazing and unique photographs. 

Safety standards allow more flexibility. For example, the new aviation doesn’t allow you to land at Kalapattar, the highest altitude this trip reaches. However, you can choose between Everest View Hotel or Kongde View Resort for breakfast.

You can customize your itinerary to take in other scenic places in the Everest region, such as Gokyo Lake. 

You might feel it is a little expensive, but it becomes very reasonable if you have two or three friends.  And even if you want to experience the adventure alone, how often will you fly in a helicopter through the Himalayas? Isn’t it well worth the money?

Is adding another stop to the Basic Everest Base Camp Heli Tour possible?

This is only possible if you hire the whole helicopter. Adding other stops/ locations on a group helicopter tour is impossible. However, many other options exist to fly in and/or out of the Everest Region on a group tour. Or you can combine a couple of tours together.  See below. 

I Don’t Want to Trek, but I Want to Spend Some Days Around Everest. Is That Possible?

While we do not recommend flying into high altitude and staying overnight for safety reasons—your body will not be able to take the sudden high altitude—you can fly into Lukla and spend some nights there (yes, there is a very high-standard hotel in Lukla). 

It is up to you whether you trek on to Namche Bazaar via Phakding, a two-day hike, acclimatize at Lukla for a couple of days and then take a helicopter to Namche to spend another couple of days, or do short hikes around Lukla.  

While most visitors come to do whole treks, this option is becoming very popular now that it is viable to do shorter treks and then take a helicopter. 

Please discuss the options with us. 

I Want to Trek, but not for the Whole Way. Is it Possible to Combine Trekking Part of the Route with Taking a Helicopter Back to Kathmandu?

Yes! It is possible to helicopter in or out of the Everest Region and combine this with your trek. For example, you can trek to Gorakshep, which includes all the main sites, including the base camp, and then take a helicopter back to either Lukla or Kathmandu.   

It is also possible to do the whole Everest Base Camp trek by taking a helicopter from Gorakshep to Kathmandu. In fact, there are a number of options to combine trekking and helicopters. 

Additionally, if you wish to complete your trekking route, take a helicopter back to Kathmandu from Lukla rather than wait for a fixed-wing plane to Ramchhap and take road transport to Kathmandu.  

The advantage of trekking and taking a helicopter out is that it opens the trekking route to those who would love to trek to see the region’s beauty but cannot walk for 10 or 12 days.   It is also perfect for those on a tight schedule.  

Please note that you must book well in advance whenever a helicopter flight is involved.  Please discuss this with us when booking your tour. 

If I Customize My Trip, What is the Tentative Additional Cost to Different Places in the Region?

Please note that Everest base camp helicopter tour costs may vary depending on the season, location, and helicopter availability. Therefore, the prices below are tentative before a firm booking. 

As mentioned above, combining trekking and helicopter transport is the ideal way to shorten your trip by a few days (for whatever reason) and enjoy both trekking and a helicopter tour over the Himalayas. 

Gorakshep to Lukla Helicopter cost: USD 350

Gorakshep is the nearest landing site for helicopters to Everest Base Camp. Trekkers can also climb Kalapattar from here to get the best views of Mt Everest. Once your trek reaches Gorakshep, you will have been to EBC and Kalapattar and seen all the famous sites and settlements. This is perhaps the best way to enjoy the ultimate EBC Trek and fly back to Lukla or Kathmandu in comfort by helicopter. 

Pheriche to Lukla Helicopter cost: USD 350

Pheriche is one day’s trek above Namche Bazaar, so it might be the place you would want to fly from rather than return to Namche again. This option is similar to the Gorakshep option above but includes one more day of trekking.  

Dingboche to Lukla Helicopter cost: USD 330

Dingboche is the highest Sherpa settlement in the region, with stunning views of Mount Ama Dablam.  The settlement is simple, but the views make up for it! The trek to EBC takes an acclimatization day here. This option is perfect for those more interested in the region’s spiritual side.  Of course, there are plenty of mountain views too!

Tengboche to Lukla Helicopter cost: USD 310

Tengboche is the location of the highest monastery in the region.  Not only does it have a serene feel associated with the monastery, but has a beautiful panorama of mountains. Heaven for visitors wishing to know more about or who follow Buddhism and for those who are keen photographers or nature lovers.  

For those with less time or who are limited in the number of days they can trek, why not trek from Lukla to Phakding and on to Namche, where there is a day to both acclimatize and explore around the town and neighborhood, learning more above the legacy left by Sir Edmund Hillary, then up to the wonderful monastery at Tengboche (three trekking days and one hiking/ acclimatization day).  From here, helicopter back down to Lukla, enjoying the scenery below and the mountains surrounding you on the way. 

Namche to Lukla Helicopter cost: USD 300

Namche Bazaar is, of course, the main market town in the region. Today, it is renowned for being where expeditions and trekking groups can gather strength and provisions at the start of their journey or relax after their successful adventures.

This is a beautiful place to end your trek and share notes and a celebratory dinner with fellow trekkers. Taking a helicopter from here to Lukla saves you from spending a day following your original trail back down the track. 

Gokyo to Lukla Helicopter cost: USD 350

Gokyo is the settlement in the Gokyo Lake area. Here, there are several freshwater lakes of both religious and global importance. The area gives a different perspective to the region. Fewer trekkers have found this unique location, the Gokyo Valley is unspoiled with its serene lakes sparkling in the sunshine. It is also the location of the huge Ngozumpa Glacier, which feeds the lakes. The lakes are not on the traditional EBC trek but can be included under the Gokyo Lakes Trek. 

EBC Helicopter Tour Cost in Different Seasons

The cost of group helicopter tours remains the same per person throughout the year. However, the cost of a charter flight may vary depending on the season.

The best time to visit Nepal is between mid-March and May spring.  At this time, expeditions can do their climbs, and the clear weather and moderate temperatures attract trekkers.  Therefore, helicopters are in demand and may be more expensive, but if you are doing a group tour, it is easier to find other travelers. A similar trend can be seen for the autumn season of September to the beginning of December.

The demand for helicopters is lower in the winter and during the monsoon (summer).  However, there are higher chances of postponement due to bad weather during these two seasons. They do, however, have their charms with regard to scenery and atmosphere.

Tips to Make the Most of Your EBC Heli Experience

A few simple preparations can make your EBC Heli experience more enjoyable and stress free. From clothing to camera angles, these EBC Helicopter tips will help you get the most out of this once in a lifetime journey.

What to Pack and Wear

Weather in the EBC region changes quickly, especially at high altitude. Layered clothing is a must. Start with a thermal base layer, add a warm fleece or down jacket and finish with a windproof outer shell.

Mornings are chilly above 4,000 meters but things can warm up quickly once the sun rises. A warm hat and gloves are highly recommended for the early flight and during your stop at the Everest View Hotel.

Don’t forget sunglasses with UV protection. Sunlight reflecting off snow and glaciers can be intense even from the helicopter. Sunscreen and lip balm are also useful for dry high altitude air.

Bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage and battery life. Cold air can drain batteries fast so keep devices warm and ready. A small power bank is also a good idea.

For footwear, comfortable shoes or light hiking boots are best. There’s minimal walking involved but it’s better to be prepared for uneven ground during stops.

Photographing the Experience

The helicopter ride to Everest offers unbeatable photo opportunities. Sit by the window if possible and keep your camera handy from the start.

One of the best shots is the Lukla runway, famous for its steep incline and cliff edge landing. Snap a photo as the helicopter approaches or takes off – it’s a moment you’ll want to remember.

As you fly deeper into the Khumbu Valley keep an eye out for Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery and Ama Dablam’s sharp ridges. These landmarks look even more dramatic from above.

Don’t miss the Khumbu Glacier and Everest Base Camp from the air. These views are hard to capture while trekking and truly unique from the helicopter.

During the landing at the Everest View Hotel take time to photograph the full Himalayan panorama. Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse line the horizon in full glory.

By following these simple EBC Helicopter tips you’ll know how to prepare for your EBC Heli tour and return with unforgettable memories and amazing shots.

Conclusion: Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

The Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour costs USD 1499 for a single person and USD 4500 for a charter flight. The price for a single person can increase if there are less than 5 members on a particular tour. 

We are torn between the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour and combining the Everest Base Camp Trek with a helicopter departure! We must leave the ultimate decision up to you, but we are most happy to discuss this.

Which season you come to is also up to you.  We understand this might depend on your circumstances, but we can say the best times in terms of weather are spring and autumn.  However, you must consider these busy times with many trekkers on the trails, mountaineers at higher altitudes, and many taking helicopter tours. Plan well ahead.

You can also trek to Everest Base Camp with helicopter return which would be ideal if you want to trek for few days.

Finally, we can say although chartering a whole helicopter would be a dream come true for many of us; it may seem expensive if you are travelling alone or just with one partner. But how often do we look back 5, 10, or more years and wish we had done that adventurous tour?  But realistically, if that is not for you, group tours can only take between 3 to 5 passengers at a time. So, it still feels like a very VIP experience!