Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour - 1 days

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  • DestinationNepal
  • Durations1 days
  • Trip DifficultyEasy
  • ActivitiesFlight Tour
  • Group Size15+

Trip Highlights

  • Breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding countryside and the Annapurna range.
  • A quick and pleasant trip from Pokhara to Base Camp Annapurna.
  • Arriving at Annapurna Base Camp, which provides up-close looks at the magnificent peaks.
  • Opportunity to unwind and take in the breathtaking surroundings at base camp.
  • Photography opportunities in the breathtaking scenery of the Himalayas.
  • Experienced helicopter pilots provide knowledgeable advice and analysis.
  • A luxurious and effective approach for individuals with limited time to take in the Himalayan scenery.
  • Seeing ethnic settlements inhabited by individuals with distinct customs and cultures

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour Overview

Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a one-day tour to the base camp of the world’s 10th highest mountain, Annapurna I (8,091 m). This trip only takes a few hours in total to complete and is perfect for those who have limited time yet still want to visit the Himalayas.

Along with the breathtaking views of the Annapurna ranges and other Himalayas, you will get to experience landing in Annapurna Base Camp itself, which is located at an altitude of 4,130 meters. Not only that, the Annapurna Base Camp flyover will also give you the opportunity to fly over various forests, villages, rivers and more, providing unique aerial views. 

Individuals of all ages can go on this helicopter ride to the Annapurna base camp. It will save you between 10 and 7 days of trekking to the base camp and requires little physical effort. The stunning views of some of the world's tallest peaks are going to amaze you.

A helicopter tour to Annapurna Base Camp starts in Pokhara, which is a vibrant city known for its lakes. The heli tour provides stunning views of various Himalayas, like Mount Annapurna (8,091 meters), Mount Nilgiri (7,061 meters), Mount Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters), Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), and Mount Hiunchuli (6,441 meters).

The highlight of this trek will surely be landing at Annapurna Base Camp. The base camp has a few teahouses where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast or simply refresh in those serene surroundings. Unlike other treks, this is an easy and thrilling adventure that will directly take you to the base of the world’s 10th highest mountain.

Route of ABC Helicopter Tour 

Starting in Pokhara, the trip offers amazing aerial views of the peaceful Phewa Lake and the natural surroundings of the city. You will be treated to breathtaking views of forested areas, tiny villages, and terraced fields as it ascends. 

The helicopter then continues in the direction of the magnificent Annapurna peaks, which include Mount Hiunchuli, Mount Annapurna, and Mount Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail).

The journey provides unmatched views of steep gorges, waterfalls, and the world's deepest valley, Kali Gandaki Valley, along its route. The main highlight of this trip is landing at Annapurna Base Camp, which is surrounded by the Annapurna Ranges and other Himalayas. 

The return trip offers a different viewpoint on the stunning terrain, guaranteeing a thorough and remarkable hovering encounter with one of the most famous mountain ranges in the world.

Landing in Annapurna Base Camp

In this ABC Helicopter Tour, you will get to experience the breathtaking sight of landing at Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), which is situated in the center of the Annapurna Sanctuary. 

The base camp, which is located at a height of 4,130 meters, is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, providing travelers with a breathtaking view as the helicopter descends.

Trekkers meet at the base camp, which gives views of little lodges and vibrant tents. Before boarding the little flight back to Pokhara, you can take in the breathtaking landscape, capture photos, and get a close-up look at the Himalayan majesty during their brief stay at ABC. 

The ABC Helicopter Tour is a very unique experience because of this fleeting yet intense interaction with the magnificent Annapurna range.

Why choose a helicopter tour to Annapurna? 

  • Time Efficiency: The trip is perfect for time-pressed individuals, it can be done in a matter of hours compared to hiking, which takes days or weeks to complete.

 

  • Magnificent Aerial Views: It provides unmatched, expansive perspectives of the Annapurna range and neighboring scenery.
  • Comfort and Accessibility: It removes the strenuous physical requirements of trekking by offering a pleasant and convenient means of accessing isolated and high-altitude areas.
  • Preventing Altitude Sickness: Travelers can reduce their chance of getting altitude sickness, which frequently occurs on multi-day hikes.
  • Flexible Itineraries: The option to alter the itinerary frequently includes stops at different locations.

Best Season for ABC Helicopter Tour 

The ideal time to do Annapurna Base Camp helicopter tour is during the spring and autumn season. The spring season lasts from March to May, and the autumn season lasts from September to November.

Spring Season (March through May)

Springtime is a very popular time for the ABC Heli Tour. The clear skies and warm weather make the Himalayas a breathtaking sight. The rhododendron and other wildflowers are in full bloom, adding to the beauty of the surroundings. You'll notice a lot of people trekking on the trails because this is also the busiest time of year.

Autumn Season (September through November)

The autumn is another popular time of year to fly to Annapurna Base Camp. Due to the clear sky and the quiet, dry air, visibility is excellent. The lovely, warm weather makes now the ideal season for helicopter trips. Autumn in Nepal is a time for many celebrations that offer beautiful scenery as well as a chance to see another culture.

Detail Itinerary

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Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour from Pokhara

Acitivities:

  • Drive to Pokhara airport
  • Fly to Annapurna base camp
  • 20 to 30 minutes of ground time in Annapurna Base Camp
  • Fly back to Pokhara
  • Drive back to the hotel

Early in the morning, our team member will come get you and drive you to the Pokhara airport.  After the helicopter lifts off, you will be given an amazing view of a few remote villages, a conservation area, the deepest valley in the Kali Gandaki, and the tallest mountains in the Annapurna region.

After thirty minutes, you will arrive at ABC and be greeted with breathtaking views of the Annapurna range as you land at Annapurna Base Camp.  You will have between 20 to and 30 minutes of ground time at the base camp. 

You have plenty of time to either snap lots of photos or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. The base camp has a few tea rooms where you can purchase food and drink if you'd like.

It will take around thirty minutes to return to the airport in Pokhara. As you return by plane to Pokhara airport, which is perched above the hills, you will be treated to the most spectacular farewell view of the Himalayan peaks and lush valleys below.  

Our team members will help you make arrangements for a ride to the airport terminal as soon as you arrive at Pokhara Airport. After that, we'll take you back to your hotel via our tourist transportation.

If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.

Cost Details

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop Service 
  • Cost of helicopter ride 
  • Permits and Entry fees
  • 20 to 30 minutes grounding time at Annapurna Base Camp
  • Oxygen Cylinders 
  • First Aid Kits 
  • Safety Equipments
  • Fuel Charges 
  • Life insurance during a helicopter flight (which is provided by aviation)
  • Space in a helicopter for a maximum of 5 people in 1 helicopter

Cost Excludes

  • Personal Expenses 
  • Travel Insurance 
  • Any kind of Food
  • Additional Activities 
  • Medical Expenses
  • Food in the base camp 
  • Any kinds of drinks (tea, coffee, hot water, etc)

Dates & Availability

  • 1 Person-----US$ 750
  • 2 - 10 Person-----US$ 650

Book a Private Date

Good to Know

Distance And Duration of ABC Heli Tour From Pokhara 

The exhilarating helicopter ride to Annapurna Base Camp offers an unforgettable perspective of the magnificent Himalayan landscape. You'll see breathtaking vistas at each of the various Annapurna area attractions before returning to Pokhara in just an hour. 

The routes and timings of your Annapurna Base Camp helicopter journey are provided in the table below, allowing you to quickly and thrillingly take in the stunning elegance of this well-known location.

Factor

Details

Distance (Pokhara to ABC)

30 km 

Duration of Tour

Approximately 1 hour

Pokhara to ABC

30 minutes

Ground time at ABC

20 to 30 minutes

Return flight time

20 to 25 minutes

Weight Limitations for Heli Tour to Annapurna 

Helicopter trips to Annapurna Base Camp are restricted to weight limits because of the high altitude and its effect on the chopper's performance. 

The total weight capacity of the helicopter, including the pilot, passengers, and luggage, is normally limited to about 500 kg. Below is a breakdown of the weight limitations:

 

  • Total Capacity: 500 kg (including passengers, pilot, and luggage)
  • Passenger Capacity: 5 passengers (excluding the pilot)
  • Average Weight per Person: Consider an average weight of 80-100 kilograms per person.

Please note that, if your group's total weight exceeds the limit, we might need to split the trip into multiple flights.

Permits Needed for Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour 

To guarantee a seamless and legal trip for the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour, getting the required licenses is crucial. 

The Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are the two main permissions needed. 

Access to the Annapurna Conservation Area requires the ACAP Permit to ensure the preservation and sustainable management of the area. 

Our team members will help arrange for these permissions and help secure them on the day of the tour or in advance. 

Personal identification, like a passport, is advised to have with you since it can be needed for the procedure of obtaining these permits.

Packing List for Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour 

The high-altitude environment and various weather conditions must be taken into account while planning a tour to Annapurna Base Camp by helicopter. A general packing list is provided below to help you be ready:

  • Insulated jacket
  • Fleece or wool sweater
  • Thermal layers
  • Hats and gloves
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Scarf or neck gaiter
  • Sturdy, comfortable shoes or boots
  • Passports and permits
  • Small backpack
  • Camera and extra batteries
  • Water bottle
  • Snacks or energy bars
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Personal medications
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Mobile phone
  • Portable charger or power bank

Important Safety Notes for Helicopter Tour to ABC 

  • Follow the pilot's instructions at all times.
  • Wear seat belts during the flight.
  • Avoid sudden movements inside the helicopter.
  • Keep personal items secure to prevent them from flying around.
  • Be aware of the rotor blades when boarding and exiting.
  • Stay within designated areas during landing and takeoff.
  • Inform the crew of any medical conditions beforehand.
  • Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions.
  • Carry essential medications with you.
  • Ensure all necessary permits are obtained and carried.
  • Hydrate and avoid alcohol before the flight.
  • Make note of emergency exits and procedures.
  • Double-check weather conditions before departure.
  • Have emergency contact information readily available.
  • Listen carefully to the pilot's pre-flight briefing and follow all safety regulations.

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