7 Best Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tours with Landing in 2024

SEARCHING FOR THE MOST INCREDIBLE MT EVEREST HELI TOURS WITH LANDINGS?

You’re in the right place because we’ve got the top 7 Mount Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tours with Landings all featured here, covering differing routes, private & group experiences, and unique itineraries.

How do I know they’re the best? Well, I’ve personally flown to Lukla and conquered Everest Base Camp a few years back, and even made two more trips back to Nepal.

All these tours start from Kathmandu and have been carefully vetted to make sure they’re highly rated with great feedback reviews.

Come witness the mind-blowing beauty of the Himalayas up close. Soar past towering peaks, vast glaciers, and landscapes you’ll never forget with any of these top 7 Everest Helicopter Tours. Rest assured, you’re making the right choice when booking your tour.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tours With Landing

A Bit About Everest Base Camp

Picture yourself flying above the jagged Himalayan peaks in the crisp mountain air of Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park while deep ice crevasses of the Khumbu region carve through the landscape. As you approach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m (17,598 ft) above sea level, the sheer size of the mountain range takes your breath away.

The trek to Everest Base Camp is not for the faint of heart, taking about two weeks to complete. But from the comfort of your helicopter, you can witness everything from the lush green valleys to the stark white peaks in one day.

As you touch down at the base camp, Kala Patthar 5,643 m (18,514 ft), and the sherpa villages, you’ll be welcomed to another world, where the ground is always icy and colorful prayer flags wave in the breeze.

Top Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tours From Kathmandu

Check out these best heli tours to Everest Base Camp, all departing from Kathmandu. Almost all include landings, but I’ve included a couple that stands out for its uniqueness or affordability.

I’ve separated this list into the following categories

• Best Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tours with Landings
• Alternative Everest Flight Tours

Travel Tip #1 Everest has some pretty unpredictable weather patterns. Be flexible with your plans because tours can only happen when the weather is nice enough.

Travel Tip #2 It can get super cold in the Everest region, so pack some winter clothes for those chilly temperatures, which you can shop for in Thamel, Kathmandu.

Best Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tours with Landings

1. Landing Everest Base Camp by Helicopter Day Tour

Best Overall EBC Heli Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-5 Hours | 🦬 Book it!

Hit the icy skies of the Himalayas by joining this Landing Everest Base Camp by Helicopter Day Tour from Katmandu! This once-in-a-lifetime adventure cuts across the sky in a Eurocopter 350 B3 Model helicopter, giving you aerial sights of glaciers and mountaineering routes on the world’s highest peak.

This tour includes multiple landings, stopping at Lukla airport for a quick refuel stop, Everest View Hotel, Pheriche, and Kala Patthar.

Starting from Kathmandu airport, you’ll share this relatively more budget-friendly option with 5 or 6 other travelers in one helicopter. Once you reach Pheriche, they’ll divide the passengers to guarantee everyone gets a window seat before coming face-to-face with Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Khumbutse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam at Everest Base Camp.

Afterward, you’ll head to the Kala Patthar viewpoint for a 10-minute stop in the heart of the tallest Himalayas.

The final stop will be at Syangboche Marg, your breakfast point during the flight. Bring enough money for a one-hour break at Hotel Everest View to enjoy food at one of the world’s highest hotels.

This was a great scenic flight and I really lucked good weather with beautiful clear skies. Having since met people who have done scenic helicopter flights with other companies on other days I know that my experience was excellent.

– Cheryl (Read more reviews)

This tour has a maximum of 15 travelers and includes pickup and drop-off at Kathmandu hotels. However, breakfast and the National Park fees are extra.

They only operate on good weather days; you’ll get a full refund if no flight is possible.

Marvel at the Himalayas from your very own Private Everest Base Camp Helicopter with Landing. Take in the views from your guaranteed window seat, high above the clouds!

This itinerary is similar to the one mentioned above, but what makes it special is the exclusivity. You’ll get personalized attention from your expert pilot since there will be a maximum of only two people. And the price of the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel.

From Kathmandu, you’ll take a scenic flight to Lukla airport for about 50 minutes, passing your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Next, continue to the Base Camp area, reaching an altitude of 17,700 feet by helicopter, before landing at Kala Patthar.

And that’s not all; swing by the fancy Hotel Everest View for an hour, where you can grab some optional breakfast amongst the highest peaks in the world.

This was one of the most amazing tours ever…The experience was as described and made for a lifetime bucket list experience. If you want to see Everest and the rest of this beautiful region this is the way to go…5 stars Plus

(Read more reviews)

Experience one of the most famous places in Nepal and on Earth by joining this Private Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour that includes the Gokyo Lakes.

See the stunning Himalayas from above and up close, all without needing to hike for days on end. Usually, it takes 16 days of hiking to reach the Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp.

You’ll fly by Mount Everest, Nuptse west face, Lhotse, Khumbutse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam, stopping at Kala Patthar. But this tour makes one additional landing stop at Gokyo Lakes, a chain of six bright blue, glacial-fed lakes with a direct shot of Mount Everest.

As with the other tours, you’ll touch down at Hotel Everest View for an optional breakfast and to walk around the Sherpa village of Syangboche Marg.

The communication from start to finish was excellent, from an on time pick up in the morning through to a fantastic tour on a modern helicopter. The views throughout were exceptional. 10/10 experience. Thoroughly recommended.

(Read more reviews)

This private helicopter tour is ideal for travelers who want to fulfill this travel bucket list effortlessly without trekking or rushing through a packed schedule.

With personalized attention from your guide and hotel transfers included, this half-day tour still leaves plenty of time for other sightseeing in Kathmandu and the rest of Nepal.

Spend more time inside Sagarmatha National Park with this Everest Experience with Overnight Stay at Hotel Everest View.

This fun 2 day adventure starts with a hotel pickup to Tribhuvan International Airport, where a helicopter will whisk you through the wilderness of Nepal to Lukla, the starting point of Everest Base Camp.

Like many other itineraries: See small Sherpa settlements and the serene Khumbu Glacier from above, with a brief landing at Kala Patthar. Then glide to the Hotel Everest View at Syangboche to savor a warm meal.

That’s where the similarities end. Instead of ending your tour early, keep the adventure going with a hike to either Khumjung Village or Namche Bazaar, two awesome Sherpa villages. Immerse yourself in the local culture, grab a yummy lunch, and then return for dinner and a night under the beautiful starry sky.

Wake up to the early morning pink glow of sunrise on the snow-capped peaks on day two. After breakfast, return to the helicopter for your journey back to Kathmandu.

The Hotel Everest View is perfect location to see the Himalayan mountains up close and personal particularly those who’ve no mountaineering skills…My trekking tour guide, gosh this guy Gavinda Baraili is down to earth.

– Onofre (Read more reviews)

Of course, this package includes hotel transfers and helicopter flights from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp and back.

Unlike many other tours, this tour is all-inclusive. You’ll enjoy lunch, dinner, two hearty breakfasts at the Hotel Everest View, and a night’s stay. All national park fees and taxes are also included.

This Everest Scenic Mountain Flight is the only one on this list that doesn’t do any landings. Still, considering it’s only 1/6th the price of the cheapest helicopter ride, I figured it’s worth adding to the list.

This tour isn’t in a helicopter, but it’s a plane ride with a max of 16 other travelers who want to catch a glimpse of Mount Everest and other Eastern Himalayan panoramas.

Your English-speaking driver will swing by your hotel bright and early to scoop you up to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight. You’ll score a primo seat with front-row views of the Himalayas. The cherry on top? You’ll get a glass of bubbly to sip on en-route.

Everyone had a window seat, crew were friendly and pointed out each mountain, views were beautiful! Early pick up from hotel but worth it.

– Charlotte (Read more reviews)

The tour will cover everything: hotel pickup and drop-off, all activities per the itinerary, and the flight ticket.

Ideal for those who still want to trek on the roof of the world but want a shortcut back home! Join this Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return, and you can complete it in just 10 days instead of the usual 12-14 days.

The best part of the experience? The helicopter ride back from Kalapatar to Kathmandu! No need to backtrack; just hop on a chopper and enjoy the incredible ride back after a well-done hike.

The first 10 days will be like any other EBC hike. A professional sherpa guide has planned every detail of your journey, guiding you on remote mountaineering paths in the shadow of the tallest peaks – Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Breakfree Adventures provided an exceptional trekking experience to Everest Base Camp. …We took a helicopter ride back to Kathmandu from Gorekshep and it was an adventure we will never forget. Our trekking guide Ram, and our porter Sanu were experienced and attentive, ensuring that we had a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.

(Read more reviews)

The tour package takes care of everything – cozy lodging, seamless flights, delicious meals, and convenient transfers. The journey starts from Kathmandu to Lukla by plane and returns via a scenic helicopter ride from Gorak Shep.

This adventure is all-inclusive. You’ll be guided by experienced experts and supported by dedicated porters. All necessary permits, winter equipment, and insurance are included. Just focus on putting one foot in front of the other.

This tour is limited to 15 adventurers and designed for those with moderate fitness.

Forget about long drives – kickstart your trekking adventure with this exciting helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Lukla.

In October 2022, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal announced that flights from Kathmandu to Lukla won’t operate during peak trekking season (Apr 1st – May 30th and Oct 1st – Nov 30th). Instead, guests must use Manthali airport in Ramechhap, a 5-hour drive from Kathmandu.

During non-peak season, guests can still fly directly between Kathmandu and Lukla. Otherwise, this is where a helicopter trip comes in, offering a time-saving direct transport option and an unforgettable experience flying above the Kathmandu Valley. In the Everest region, the journey itself is part of the destination.

I took the flight to view Mount Everest and the mountains surrounding it, the flight captain and air stewardess were very helpful to provide information to passengers. It is an unforgettable experience to be so close to view the majestic of the mountains.

– KC (Read more reviews)

And they’ve got your convenience covered! They do Kathmandu hotel transfers and take care of airport taxes, fees, and handling charges.

Where to Stay in Kathmandu, Nepal

Thamel is the best place to get a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to nicer resorts.

Note: If you request it, most hotels in Thamel will have a space to stow away any belongings you won’t need on your trek or adventure tour.

✅ OASIS OF TRANQUILITY WITH FREE BREAKFAST – Avataar Kathmandu Hotel

⭐ RATING: 8.3 out of 10 Stars (275+ reviews) | $$

Starting at only $28, Avataar Kathmandu Hotel is quiet but still close to all the action, a peaceful oasis in the bustle of the city. The rooms are clean and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The hotel is also very secure, so you can feel confident leaving your belongings unguarded.

✅ STYLISH TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE PRIVATE ROOM- Newa Home

⭐ RATING: 8.5 out of 10 Stars (100+ reviews) | $$

On the low end, Newa Home sits just at the northeast edge of Thamel with a good deal with private rooms starting at ~$10 per night. What sets this place apart is its traditional architecture which makes for a beautiful reception area and clean rooms.

✅ CLEAN BUT DIRT CHEAP HOSTEL – Bodhi Tree Hostel

⭐ RATING: 9.5 out of 10 Stars (275+ reviews) | $

Shockingly, there are many 400 NPR per night ($3 USD) hostels in the Thamel area. Warning: I got bedbugs in two different beds at a highly-rated hostel. Upon returning to Kathmandu, I was more cautious and found Bodhi Tree to be a great value find. The room was clean, bright and had better amenities than before.

Tips To Prepare For Mt Everest Helicopter Tour

Before going on a Mount Everest Helicopter Tour, prepare accordingly. Here are some tips:

1. What to pack: Pack full winter gear, including layers, comfortable walking shoes, and rain gear. It is freezing all year round.
2. Be Flexible with the weather: Your tour operator will check the local weather reports and forecasts before you go. As conditions can change quickly, be prepared that your trip may be delayed.
3. Health Check-Up: Before going on a trip, getting a health check-up and bringing the necessary medications for altitude sickness is important. Most people will be fine without acclimatization for half-day trips, but be aware that breathing might be more challenging due to low oxygen levels.
4. Get Travel Insurance: At such heights and unpredictable weather, it’s wise to have travel insurance to protect against delays or accidents. With SafetyWings Nomad Insurance, you’ll have peace of mind for just $11+ per week. If trekking, I recommend Nomad Insurance. It’s pricier but covers Heli evacuation and trekking above 4500 meters.
5. Batteries Die in the Cold: Store your batteries in your pockets. At Kala Patthar, the extreme cold can quickly drain the power of your lithium batteries in minutes.
6. Get yourself a proper camera: If you don’t already, consider getting a DSLR with zoom lens to capture the spectacular mountains and scenery from all angles.

FAQs About An Everest Helicopter Tour in Nepal

What are the 2 best seasons to travel Everest by helicopter?

The best time for an Everest Helicopter Tour is during the pre-monsoon spring season (February – May) and post-monsoon autumn season (late September – December).

These periods have more predictable weather, clearer skies, and excellent visibility, giving you a better view of Everest and the surrounding peaks.

Avoid the monsoon season (June to September), as the heavy rains and fog can severely hamper visibility. Many times bad weather can lead to cancellations of helicopter tours.

Remember that weather in the Himalayas is notoriously unpredictable, so schedules might change last minute.

Can I see Mount Everest by helicopter?

Yes, you can see Mount Everest on a helicopter tour in Nepal! While you can’t reach the top, the helicopter lands amongst some of the world’s highest peaks. Bypassing long trekking days, it’s perfect for those with limited time or physical ability.

Can helicopters fly to Everest Base Camp?

Yes! Helicopters can reach Everest Base Camp, but direct landing is unusual due to the challenging altitude and terrain. Instead, helicopters can get you close, often landing at Kala Patthar for a brief stop. The flight typically lasts 4-5 hours, considering weather and air conditions.

How much is a helicopter to Everest Base Camp?

The cost of a helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp can vary based on tour duration, helicopter type, and whether it’s a private or group tour. On average, a shared tour can range from $1,000 to $1,500 per person. Private tours tend to be more expensive, often costing several thousand dollars.

Is Everest helicopter tour worth it?

Having been to Everest Base Camp, I can confidently say it’s worth it. Based on reviews and feedback, most agree that the Everest helicopter tour is worth it to get a unique perspective of the Himalayan range without the physical exertion of trekking.

However, consider the cost and unpredictable weather conditions that may cause delays or cancellations. If you can afford it and are willing to take the risk, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed.

Are helicopter tours cold?

Yep, helicopter tours in the Himalayan region can get pretty chilly, especially in high-altitude spots like Everest Base Camp. So, it’s a good idea to dress in warm layers and bring a jacket, hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear to keep cozy during the flight. The helicopter cabin might have heating, but it’s always smart to be ready for cooler temperatures.

Do any airlines fly over Mount Everest?

Commercial airlines don’t fly over Mount Everest. However, there are scenic mountain flights in Nepal that let you see the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, from the air. These flights keep a safe distance from the mountain.

How long is Everest flight?

The duration of an Everest helicopter flight varies depending on the tour package. On average, a typical tour to Everest Base Camp and back takes around 3 to 4 hours, including landing, sightseeing, and having an optional breakfast. Some tours may offer additional stops, extended flight times, or overnight stays.

Can anyone do Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp trek is challenging and requires good physical fitness and endurance. Prior trekking experience is recommended, and I always pick up some altitude sickness medication beforehand, just in case. The higher you go, the harder it is. Adequate preparation, training, and acclimatization are essential for a safe experience.

Can I do Everest Base Camp trek alone?

While you can trek to Everest Base Camp alone, going with a knowledgeable guide or as part of an organized group is recommended. The trek involves challenging terrains, high altitudes, and potential risks. Having a guide ensures safety and helps in emergencies. There will always be other people on Everest to hang out with and tea houses to eat and stay in, but you will have to carry all your equipment without any support.

🤩 I never leave home without my Sony Mirrorless Camera A6400, an amazing travel camera. You’re probably only going on this tour once, so I recommend this Tamrom 70-300mm all-purpose budget-friendly lense option.

Final Thoughts: Best Everest Base Camp Heli Tours

Everest Base Camp is an achievement on many people’s bucket lists. Whether you go trekking or on a flight, both options have amazing perks.

Hiking tests your character by pushing your physical limits. However, a flight tour is an excellent alternative if time or physical constraints are a concern. Without the strenuous two-week hike, it makes the world’s highest mountain accessible to all. Flight tours also give you a unique aerial perspective, capturing the scale and majesty of the Himalayas in ways ground-based treks cannot.

In case you’re still not sure which to pick:

• For a more budget-friendly shared helicopter experience, join this Landing Everest Base Camp by Helicopter Day Tour from Katmandu.
• For the best private experience for two, sign up for this Private Everest Base Camp Helicopter with landing.
• If one day is not enough, book this 2D/1N Everest Experience with Overnight Stay at Hotel Everest View.

Do your research and pick the tour that best fits you. And with any luck, you’ll join the long list of adventurers who have seen Mount Everest from near and far!

No matter what route you take, getting to see the world’s highest mountain is a truly remarkable experience.