A shared Everest Base Camp (EBC) landing helicopter tour is a more affordable way to experience the stunning Everest region while sharing the journey with other travelers. This tour typically begins in Kathmandu and takes you to EBC, with a stop at Kala Patthar for unparalleled views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
Here is a comprehensive overview of the shared EBC helicopter tour:
Itinerary
Departure from Kathmandu: Your shared helicopter tour starts with a flight from Kathmandu towards the Everest region. The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour before reaching the first stop, Lukla.
Refueling at Lukla: A brief stop at Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, is made for refueling the helicopter. This stop usually lasts around 10-15 minutes.
Flying to Everest Base Camp/Kala Patthar: After refueling, the helicopter will fly towards EBC and Kala Patthar. Kala Patthar, at an elevation of 5,643 meters (18,513 feet), provides awe-inspiring panoramic views of Mount Everest and the neighboring peaks.
Landing at Kala Patthar: Due to environmental concerns and regulations, helicopters are generally not allowed to land directly at EBC. Instead, they land at Kala Patthar, where you'll have around 10-15 minutes to take pictures and enjoy the views. Keep in mind that the time spent here is limited due to the high altitude and thin air.
Breakfast with a view (optional): After Kala Patthar, the helicopter may fly to a luxury hotel, such as Hotel Everest View in Syangboche or Yeti Mountain Home in Kongde, where you can enjoy breakfast with a spectacular view of Everest (additional cost may apply).
Return to Kathmandu: After the breakfast stop or directly from Kala Patthar, the helicopter will fly back to Kathmandu, concluding your shared Everest Base Camp landing helicopter tour.
Duration
- A shared Everest Base Camp landing helicopter tour usually takes around 4-5 hours, including stops at Lukla for refueling, Kala Patthar for panoramic views, and an optional breakfast stop.
Best Time for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour is an exhilarating experience that offers spectacular views of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, and its surrounding landscapes. The best time to embark on this journey largely depends on the weather and temperature conditions. Crafted by Luxury Holidays Nepal, the details for each season are:
Spring (March to May)
- Temperature: The daytime temperatures at the Everest Base Camp range from 10°C to 15°C, but nights can be colder, dropping to -5°C to 5°C.
- Highlights: This is considered the best time to embark on the helicopter tour because the weather is stable, and the skies are clear. The mountain views are spectacular with a backdrop of blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers. Spring is also the primary mountaineering season, so there's a buzz around the base camp.
Monsoon/Summer (June to August)
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can be between 5°C to 10°C.
- Highlights: This season sees the least number of tourists due to the unpredictable weather and potential flight delays caused by heavy rainfalls. The views might be obscured by clouds, but the landscapes become green and vibrant.
Autumn (September to November)
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C, while nights can go down to -5°C to 5°C.
- Highlights: Another popular time for the tour. The weather is stable, and the skies are clear, providing breathtaking views of the mountains. The air is fresh and crisp, and the forests are adorned with a palette of autumnal colors.
Winter (December to February)
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures can be around -5°C to 5°C, while nighttime temperatures can plummet to -15°C to -10°C.
- Highlights: The coldest of all seasons, but offers some of the clearest views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. The number of tourists is fewer, making it a serene experience. However, the cold can be a challenge, especially during the early morning flights.
While Spring and Autumn are generally considered the best times for the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, the decision also depends on personal preferences regarding weather, crowd levels, and the kind of scenic beauty one wishes to experience.
Important Considerations
- Due to the high altitude, there is a risk of altitude sickness. It's essential to stay hydrated, move slowly, and follow the advice of the pilot.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the journey. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Keep in mind that mountain weather can be unpredictable, and the tour may be delayed or canceled due to adverse weather conditions. Always consult with us and consider the weather forecast before booking a shared helicopter tour.
- Be prepared to share the helicopter with other passengers, which may require some flexibility and cooperation during the journey. The maximum capacity of a helicopter typically ranges from 4 to 6 passengers, depending on the aircraft type and weight restrictions.
If you need any further information, please contact us, Email: at [email protected], Phone: +977- 985 100 5129 (WhatsApp)
