Overview
Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour
Kathmandu to Kalaptthar Helicopter Tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to people from the world. The Everest region is the most famous area of the Himalayas. The flight length of your Everest region helicopter tour lasts about three and a half hours. As you start to fly out of the Kathmandu Valley, you can see the towering Himalayas. Sure, you can trek up to Kalapatthar from Lukla to see Everest on a 10-day trek, but this single day tour is much more efficient.
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour is an adventurous flight and for many, it is one of the most memorable days of one’s life. It is famous among both domestic and foreign travelers. The helicopter lands at Kalapatthar (5555 meters/18,225 feet) for the best view of the world’s highest peak – Mount Everest – within 4 hours of leaving Kathmandu. From the helicopter, you get an eagle’s eye view of the Khumbu region landscape, about 80% of which is snow-capped mountains.
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour is the most famous and sought after the tour in Nepal. We offer daily fixed departures from morning to afternoon in a private group or group joining basis. The helicopters are brand new and the pilots are well-experienced. Cruise comfortably to see the most precious jewel of Nepal, Mount Everest, from the famous viewpoint Kalapatthar. Enjoy the most pristine view of high mountains, green forest, brownish hills, wild alpine blooming flowers, and adjacent snowy landscape at the lap of the giant Himalayas.
Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour takes you to the extreme heights of Mt. Everest, landing at Kalapatthar (vantage point) before flying over to Everest Base Camp. From the sky, you get the most beautiful view of mountains, rivers, green hills, fields of flowers, farmlands and Sherpa settlements. This is the quickest and easiest trip to see Mount Everest. Kalapatthar Helicopter tour will fill your life with extra zest and joy after you step your foot to the famous viewpoint at Kala Patthar.
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour with Landing Opportunity
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour with landing starts with a short helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport. Lukla is a small Sherpa town, famous for having one of the highest (and most dangerous) airports in the world. Tenzin Hillary Airport sits on the edge of a cliff at the height of 2860 meters/9383 feet. The first flight lasts about 40 minutes, landing at Lukla to refuel the helicopter. It’s best to refuel here rather than bringing fuel along with us.
Then, take a second flight from Lukla to Pheriche to drop some of the passengers off. Maintaining the weight and number of persons per flight for the shuttle is crucial. This second landing opportunity takes about 15 minutes, perfect for enjoying the awesome Himalayan views, snapping some photos, and having a couple of moments to acclimatize.
The Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour typically carries a maximum of 5 people in the chopper until Pheriche. From here, the helicopter needs to be lighter because of the thin air. The weight limit is 240 kgs/3 persons per flight (above 4400 meters). If the total weight of persons and luggage is higher than 250 kgs per flight, then the luggage will be returned to Kathmandu/Lukla direct from Pheriche. Normally, our Kalapatthar helicopter group joining tour includes 2 shuttles for a group of 4 to 5, but in the case of too much weight (although the number of pax is 3 to 5), 3 shuttles will be taken. For example, if 3 people weigh 100 kg each, you need 2 shuttles, or if 5 people weight 100 kgs, 3 shuttles are needed.
Group Division for Pheriche to Kalapatthar Shuttle
The listed cost is just for a maximum of two shuttles. You should know the total weight of each shuttle flight, which is maximum up to 240 kilograms for the single shuttle and 500 kilograms for the double shuttle. A final evaluation of weight distribution and the number of shuttles needed will happen in Pheriche.
If you are a couple, you might have to split and fly separately to Kalapatthar due to weight management, though we will do our best to accommodate you so that doesn’t have to happen. If there more than 2 shuttles, each additional shuttle cost will be extra. If the total number of weight/passengers exceeds the package details, another helicopter from Kathmandu can be added separately with an additional cost. We highly request to provide your weight accurately beforehand so we can manage the trip accordingly. We can also manage the weight with another tour group and save some money on your extra helicopter cost in overweight/extra person cases. In this case, you will be charged $ 500 per extra shuttle (which is shared by the group).
Regarding this number of pax and maximum weight limit, the shuttle is maintained to fly above 4440 meters.
The helicopter flies from Pheriche to the base of Kalapatthar. The views throughout the flight and from the top of Kala Patthar can’t be seen from any place on Earth. The chopper lands at near Everest Base Camp (Kalapatthar), where you will have about 10-15 minutes to feel the fresh Himalayan Breeze and take some photos next to Everest. You will feel a great sense of joy standing in front of the highest mountain on the planet. Enjoy some moments of bliss, have a little conversation with Everest, and hop back in the chopper.
The fourth and final helicopter landing stop on the Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour is Hotel Everest View at an altitude of 3880 meters/12729 feet. Have a delicious breakfast or lunch at the highest hotel in the world. The stunning view of the mountains, including Mt. Everest, is the perfect way to end this incredible tour.
Himalayan Ranges on the Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour
The Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour package provides epic window views of Mt.Everest, Gaurishankar, Mt. Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cholatse, Nuptse, Pumori, Lhotse, and many more. Along with several of the world’s highest peaks, you’ll see green forests of oak, pine, rhododendron flowers, Khumbu Icefall, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, local Sherpa people and other trekkers during breakfast at Hotel Everest View in Syangboche. It’s a rare experience to get to fly over little Sherpa villages and learning about their ancient cultures and lifestyles from the guide. Note that breakfast in Hotel Everest View is optional.
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour Cost (Single/Group Joining & Private Group)
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour costs vary according to the itinerary and services/facilities requested by the customer. The number of people (i.e. group, private, group joining, individual, etc.) makes the Kalapatthar Helicopter cost. Find the exact details below.
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour group joining basis cost starts from $999 to $1050 per person, depending on the group size. If you have a private group of 5 people, a cost of $ 999 per person will be applied. If not, we will manage individuals from other groups to add up to 5 people. The detailed price chart is for a private or group joining helicopter tour as mentioned below.
| No. of Pax | Cost per Person | Extra Shuttle(if needed) |
| 1 | $1099 | $500 |
| 2 | $999 | $500 |
| 3 | $975 | $500 |
| 4 | $935 | $500 |
| 5 | $825 | $500 |
How Can I Book Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour?
For the group joining Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour, you will be sharing the ride with other people and the price will be as mentioned in the above-given table. To confirm a group joining the tour, for 1 to 3 people, contact us and please provide us your weight. If you are looking for a private helicopter tour with your friends or family, please provide us your weight, tour date, the total amount to be paid according to your group size, and your booked hotel address in Kathmandu. Call or email us anytime for all kinds of support
- Whatsapp/Viber/wechat:- +9779851045078 - Kishwor Adhikari
- Email: [email protected]
While planning for this helicopter ride to Kalapatthar from Kathmandu, please make sure to have one or two extra days in Nepal. Nepal has 4 major seasons: spring, monsoon, autumn, and winter. This Kalapatthar chopper tour can be done in all seasons. For the most beautiful view of the Himalayas and surrounding landscapes, autumn and spring seasons are the best. One can ensure this trip during winter and monsoon as well, but keep in mind the weather is not always reliable. Sometimes, the helicopter flight can be canceled due to sudden weather changes, even in the high seasons (autumn and spring). To deal with that, it’s better to have extra days, so we can try again the next day. We recommend not having a tight schedule for your returning international flight. Click here for booking Contact us.
How Much in Advance do I Have to Book This Tour?
It depends on the season. The Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour operates throughout the year in all seasons. The helicopter and flight tickets are available in winter and monsoon season, though the helicopter operates only the weather condition is suitable. During the high seasons (autumn and spring), helicopters operate on a daily basis, but there remains a difficulty in booking flights on late notice. Because of this, last-minute bookings (2 to 4 days prior to departure date) are possible but can be a bit of a hassle. It is best to book this trip as much in advance as possible, ideally months before the departure date. If that is not possible, for example, if you decide to take it while you are in Nepal itself, is try to book at least 10 days prior to the helicopter tour date. With this gap between the booking date and departure date, this Heli tour organization process flows smoothly with guaranteed flight take-offs.
Best Season for Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour can be done throughout the year but to have the best views, we recommend choosing these months: January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. These are the best months for taking the epic adventurous Kalapatthar Helicopter flight in the Everest Region of Nepal. However, this doesn’t mean that only these months are appropriate. It is possible to get clear weather for this trip during any month of the year.
Is it safe to do Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour?
Yes, the Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour is very safe. Before flying into the Himalaya, the weather forecast is analyzed and the helicopter conditions are always checked and upheld properly. With very well-trained and experienced pilots, the Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour is 100% safe. When you fly in the best season, there is little chance of seeing clouds or experiencing wind. Overall, the Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour is very safe.
Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour Guide
On this Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour, there isn’t a personal guide, because that would be a bit expensive, but if you are happy to pay for their fee, we can provide knowledgeable mountain guide to explain about each village and peak that you fly over. Normally, the pilot guides you and gives you info on what you see from your window. The pilots are well-experienced and they know each place super well. On your ride, you will get a pair of headphones so you and the pilot can communicate with each other about the peaks and places around you.
Where and How Can I join Everest Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour?
This Helicopter tour to Kalapatthar starts and ends in Kathmandu at Tribhuvan International Airport. It is possible to book the trip and join the group from different spots such as Lukla, Namche, Syangboche, Pheriche, Dingboche or even Kalapatthar itself. If you are on a trek and want to experience the helicopter tour, you can contact us and we will give you the time schedule. If you choose this route, you must be there on time and join the group from there. This Helicopter Tour can be booked from any place in the Everest Region, and your cost will be adjusted accordingly. Keep in mind that the helicopter pilot will not wait for more than 6 minutes for passengers, so you must be on time. There are only about 30 helicopters in Nepal, so they have a tight schedule to abide by.
Are you looking for any other tours or treks in the Everest Region?
We provide various tours and treks in the Everest Region. We offer economic to luxury, fast and slow-paced, trips to Everest Base Camp. All of these itineraries offer you the opportunity to reach high-altitude spots such as Kalapatthar, Gokyo Lakes, 5th Lake, etc. All given itineraries are flexible, so you can customize the trip as you wish. Please feel free to write us for your desired adventure to the Everest region, and together we will create a most memorable adventure for you.
- Everest Base Camp Trek
- Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
- Everest Base Camp Trek Helicopter Return
Everest Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour Tips and Safety Rules
As mentioned before, the Kathmandu to Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour is extremely safe. That being said, there are some basic safety rules that all passengers must follow in order to make a safe, secure, comfortable flight for everyone. Some of the safety rules you must know before the Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour are as follows:
- Do not jump to and from the helicopter
- Do not try to change the seat while the helicopter is airborne
- If you want to change your seat, do so at landing places such as Lukla, Pheriche
- Do not spit from the helicopter
- Do not bother the pilot by asking too many questions.
- Carry a little luggage in case of an emergency landing.
- Use cotton wools or cotton pads for the flight.
- Do not get off immediately after the helicopter lands, always mind the spinning blades
- Do not walk to the helicopter without pilot permission.
- Do not open the windows without pilot permission
- Do not put your hands and/or cameras outside of the window while the helicopter is flying
Things to Carry During One Day Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour
We always have to be on the safe side and pack some essential objects during the Helicopter flight to Kalapatthar in case there is a delay or the helicopter gets stuck somewhere. Here is a list of essential things to carry for your Helicopter Tour:
- Pack your Camera or Mobile Phone (the better quality, the better)
- Sunscreen and skin/lip balms
- Windbreaker and down jacket
- Sun hat to protect from sunburn at the breakfast place and Kalapathar
- Personal day backpack
- 2 bottles of mineral water
- Dried fruits and a few chocolates
- Carry some Nepali currency in case you like to buy something
Time Schedule for Kalapatthar Helicopter Tour
Tour Activity No. 1: Kathmandu to Lukla Flight Timeline
05:30 to 06:30 AM: Pick up time from the hotel.
O6:30 to 07:00 AM: Reach Domestic Airport (Tribhuvan International Airport).
07:00 to 07:30 AM: Reach Lukla Airport (Tenzin Hillary Airport).
Please note that the luggage weight inspection will be done in the airport and weather condition is also checked to know whether it is appropriate for flight to take off or not.
Tour Activity No. 2: Lukla to Pheriche Flight
Now, you will fly from Lukla to Pheriche. It will take around 18 minutes to complete the flight.
Tour Activity No. 3: Pheriche to EBC/Kala Patthar
In Pheriche, the weight is maintained and the helicopter flies to EBC or Kalapatthar in a shuttle (usually 2 shuttles are taken, but in few cases, it may lead to 3). It is done because the helicopter carries 500kgs up to Pheriche and above that, it flies with the weight of 240 kgs only, because of security concerns. Within 15 to 20 minutes, you will reach Kala Patthar and spend 10 to 15 minutes there. It is not good to stay here for longe time due to the high altitude.
Tour Activity No. 4: Kala Patthar to Hotel Everest View
After capturing photos and videos and spending some moments in Kala Patthar, you will fly to Hotel Everest View. It takes around 10 to 15 minutes to reach the hotel from Kala Patther. Here, you will spend 25 to 35 minutes to eat breakfast, enjoy the fresh mountain breeze and snap some photos.
Tour Activity No. 5: Fly to Kathmandu
Lastly, you fly back to Kathmandu directly or through Lukla. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be dropped back to your respective hotel. With this, your helicopter tour to Mount Everest Base Camp ends with a final goodbye.
Last Minute Booking & Contact
We accept the last moment booking 0 days prior to the departure date. For this, 100% payment is to be done before starting the Tour.
Kishwor Adhikari
Nepal Mobile: +9779851045078
24 Hrs Available on What's App, Viber or WeChat.
