| Duration: 4 hr | Max Altitude: 4,130m | ||
| Location: Pokhara | |||
| Difficulty: easy | |||
Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour with Landing Cost
Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour is one of the bucket lists for those who love to travel. It gives a once-in-a-lifetime aerial adventure that whisks you straight into the heart of the Himalayas. This thrilling heli tour is ideal for those short on time or seeking a luxurious alternative to the traditional multi-day trek. The heli tour to Annapurna Base Camp(ABC) offers you an up-close view of some of the most iconic peaks in the Annapurna range. On this journey, you can observe awe-inspiring Himalayan views and fly cheek by jowl amongst Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Nilgiri, Annapurna II, and many more. The panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, terraced fields, and ethnic villages make the journey unforgettable.
The Annapurna Base Camp heli tour starts in Pokhara. As we know, Pokhara itself is a beautiful tourism capital and is the ultimate offbeat tour for relishing lifetime experiences. Our heli tour offers the most scenic landscape vistas globally and also carries cultural significance for Buddhist acolytes. As the ABC helicopter tour takes off, you’ll witness the tranquil lakes of Pokhara and traditional Magar and Gurung settlements scattered across the hillsides. Once you reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, enjoy 15–30 minutes on the ground to explore, take photos, and soak in the serene Himalayan atmosphere, surrounded by towering white summits.
Highlights:
- Capture the beautiful landscape of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, Mt. Machhapucchre, and many more.
- The Annapurna heli tour provides you with a scenic view of Pokhara Valley and beautiful villages with epic cultural significance associated with the lifestyle of people
- Embrace yourself at a high altitude. An oval-plated plateau offers you a unique experience.
- Captivate a stunning view of Mt. Annapurna, ensuring your safety with professional helicopter pilots.
- Heli tour to ABC is a great option for families, elderly travellers, or those unable to complete the full trek on foot.
- Fly over traditional ethnic villages and witness the vibrant cultures and unique lifestyles of the Himalayan people from above.
Includes
- Transportation
- Professional pilot and guide
- Chartered Helicopter
Excludes
- Annapurna Sanctuary permits
- Insurance
- Airport Tax
- Accommodation and Lunch
- Gratuities and tips
Best Time for the Annapurna Helicopter Tour
The Annapurna region offers some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in Nepal, and experiencing it via helicopter provides a unique perspective. The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
Spring Season
The spring season offers excellent conditions for Annapurna helicopter tours with stable weather, warming temperatures, and spectacular visibility. The landscape transforms into a vibrant canvas as rhododendron forests bloom in brilliant reds, pinks, and whites against the snow-capped Himalayan backdrop. Morning flights during this season provide the clearest mountain views and the most comfortable flying conditions, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C at lower elevations.
Autumn Season
The autumn season is widely considered the absolute prime season for Annapurna helicopter tours, featuring the most stable weather of the entire year. The post-monsoon atmosphere brings unparalleled clarity, allowing for breathtaking, sharp views of the mountains with exceptional depth perception. The landscape below showcases rich autumn colours and lush green terraced fields, creating perfect conditions for photography and an unforgettable visual experience.
We strongly recommend avoiding the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and the winter months (December to February) because of extreme cold and potential weather-related flight disruptions. These periods significantly increase the risk of tour cancellations and disappointing experiences, making the spring and autumn seasons far more reliable choices for experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna region from the air.
Where does the Helicopter Tour to ABC Start and End?
Many travellers believe the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Helicopter Tour starts directly from Kathmandu. While that’s possible, the most popular and cost-effective route is the direct heli tour that starts from Pokhara.
If you’re in Kathmandu, you can still join the heli tour by first taking a short domestic flight (about 25 minutes) or a scenic drive to Pokhara, which is the main hub for Annapurna region tours. From Pokhara, the helicopter ride to Annapurna Base Camp begins, flying you over beautiful landscapes ethnic villages, and into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. It provides spectacular views of peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fish Tail), Hiunchuli, and the famous Dhaulagiri massif. While it is more expensive than the ABC heli tour from Pokhara, you can contact us for more details.
Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour Cost for 2025/26
The Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour offers an unforgettable journey to one of Nepal’s most iconic high-altitude destinations without a long trek. For the 2025/26 season, the standard cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour typically ranges from USD 400 to USD 800 per person, depending on the type of booking. Mountain Routes offers a specially curated Annapurna Heli Tour package at just $400 per person, which includes all local taxes, permit handling, ground transfers, and expert guidance throughout the journey.
| Booking Type | Group Size | Approx. Cost per Person (USD) | Inclusions |
| Group Joining Flight | 5 persons max | $400 | Seat on a heli, permit handling, hotel pickup/drop, taxes |
Itinerary from Pokhara to ABC through Heli Tour
-
1:
Hotel Pick Up and Drive to Pokhara Domestic Airport
-
2:
Scenic Flight to Annapurna Base Camp
-
3:
Return Flight to Pokhara
1. Hotel Pick Up and Drive to Pokhara Domestic Airport
One of the representatives will pick you up directly from your respective hotel. Don’t forget to give details about the hotel you are staying at. Now heading towards Pokhara Airport, we are ready to take off for the Annapurna Base Camp Heli tour at 4,130m. It’s about a 1-hour flight journey towards the northern side of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
2. Scenic Flight to Annapurna Base Camp
Take off on a breathtaking 20–25-minute helicopter flight to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). Before landing, the helicopter will circle the Annapurna Sanctuary, offering a 360° view of the towering Himalayan giants. Upon landing, you will be welcomed by the stunning Himalayas and surrounded by an elevated glacial Basin, an area beautifully decorated with Buddhist prayer flags and tea houses made of wood and stone. From your vantage point, you’ll witness a ring of iconic Himalayan giants towering over 7,000 meters such as Annapurna I (8,091m) which the 10th highest mountain in the world, including Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Gangapurna (7,455m), Machapuchare (6,993m) and Hiunchuli (6,441m).
3. Return Flight to Pokhara
After your time at ABC, you’ll board the helicopter for a smooth return flight to Pokhara, offering one more chance to take in the stunning aerial views. This leg of the journey gives a final look at the Annapurna Massif, deep gorges, glacial rivers, and high-altitude villages before descending back into the lush Pokhara Valley.
Difficulty in Helicopter Tour to Annapurna Base Camp
The ABC Heli Tour is one of the easiest ways to see the Himalayas. It allows you to enjoy the beauty of the mountains without long trekking days. You don’t need to hike or climb steep trails. Unlike the classic trek, which takes several days and needs good fitness, this heli tour is simple and quick. It’s perfect for travellers of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you are young, elderly, or travelling with children, you can enjoy this tour comfortably. It’s designed to be safe, scenic, and stress-free. While spending about 25 to 30 minutes at this high elevation, some travellers may experience mild symptoms of altitude, such as shortness of breath or light-headedness. Still, the short duration significantly reduces the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol or heavy meals before the flight can help manage this. The tour is ideal for families, elderly travellers, children, or those short on time who still want to enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna range.
Still, if you have enough time and want to fully experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Annapurna region, you can also choose the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This classic trekking journey takes around 10 days and offers a more immersive adventure through scenic villages, lush forests, and mountain trails leading up to ABC.
Travel Insurance for Heli Tour to Annapurna Base Camp
Travel Insurance is highly recommended for your safety and peace of mind. Flying to high altitudes like 4,130 meters comes with certain health and weather-related risks, and having the right insurance ensures you’re protected if unexpected situations arise.
Why Do You Need Travel Insurance?
Altitude Risk: Though short, the flight takes you quickly to high altitude, which can cause mild altitude sickness in some individuals. Emergency medical assistance or evacuation (if needed) can be costly without insurance.
Flight Cancellations: Himalayan weather is unpredictable. Flights may get delayed or cancelled. Good insurance can help you recover non-refundable expenses or trip interruption costs.
Accidents or Illness: Even minor health issues like headaches or dizziness at altitude may require attention. Travel insurance covers medical bills, even for minor incidents.
Lost or Damaged Belongings: Cameras, phones, or bags can sometimes be misplaced. Insurance can cover the value of these items.
Packing list for Annapurna Heli Tour
Although the Annapurna Heli Tour is a short day trip, you’ll be flying to a high-altitude location (4,130 meters), where the weather can change quickly and temperatures can be much colder than in Pokhara. Packaging smart is important to stay comfortable and make the most of your experience. The weight limit for the Annapurna Base Camp helicopter tour is generally around 500 kg (about 1100 lbs), which includes the combined weight of all passengers, the pilot, and any luggag,e so pack accordingly.
Clothing & Layers
- Windproof and insulated jacket (down or fleece)
- Base layer or thermal innerwear (light but warm)
- Gloves (thin and warm)
- Warm hat or beanie (to protect from cold wind)
- Sunglasses (UV protection, as snow glare is strong)
- Scarf or buff (to shield from wind/dust)
- Comfortable pants (trekking pants or leggings)
- T-shirt or light long-sleeved (for layering)
- Sturdy shoes or hiking boots (with a good grip)
Essentials & Gear
- Camera or smartphone (for photos, of course!)
- Power bank (cold can drain the battery quickly)
- Small backpack or daypack (to carry your items)
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated)
- Snacks (energy bars or nuts for a quick bite)
Health & Safety
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) (UV is strong at high altitudes)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Personal medication (if needed)
- Motion sickness tablets (if you’re prone to air sickness)
- Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
Documents
- Copy of your passport
- Heli tour booking confirmation
- Travel insurance info (recommended, especially for altitude coverage)
What Not to Bring
- Large luggage or heavy bags (space is limited in the helicopter)
- Unnecessary electronics
- Jewellery or valuables (keep it minimal)
FAQ
- A water bottle, make sure you keep on hydrating yourself
- Keep your permits, papers, and required documents
- Handy cameras and gadgets
- Some extra cash
The Annapurna Heli Tour is a luxurious and time-saving way to reach the base of the Himalayas without trekking. Flying up to 4,130 meters, it offers breathtaking views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and surrounding peaks. It is ideal for those with limited time, the cost for the ABC heli tour starts around USD 400 per person for a private flight, making it a memorable and scenic adventure in Nepal.
At Mountain Routes, we offer a wide range of helicopter tour packages beyond Annapurna Base Camp to suit different travel interests, timelines, and budgets. One of our most popular options is the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, which includes a landing at Kalapatthar for close-up views of Mt. Everest and a breakfast stop at Hotel Everest View, the world’s highest-altitude hotel.
Annapurna Base camp lies on the elevation of 4,130 m height and for accommodation overnight, you have to pre-inform, Actually, the threat of AMS always prevails at high altitudes, so basically we get back to Pokhara or even if you want to stay we have to manage it earlier. However, you can get a twin sharing bedroom, teahouse and for high end its similar kind of room but primitive stone design typical structure of mountain houses are available.
The helicopter itself is designed to operate at high altitudes and is used for rescue service which ensures your safety, too. Our flights only operate after a broader inspection of weather and wind flowing directions, and existing situations are well managed. For the Heli Tour, we provide you with highly professional pilots who are pioneers in operating flights in turbulence in high altitudes.
There are no strict eligibility criteria for joining a helicopter tour to Annapurna Base Camp.. However, we recommend that children below 10 years and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially those related to the heart or lungs (such as HAPE or asthma), consult with a doctor before travelling to high altitudes.
According to our one-day package, we spend our time at the ABC ground for 30 minutes, capturing beautiful vistas. However, Helicopters carry oxygen tanks in case of emergencies. If we are spending much time at high altitudes, then acclimatization is most required at low altitudes.
Clothing for the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour should be season-appropriate, warm, and comfortable. Wear warm, layered clothing that insulates well but allows free movement. In winter, three layers (base, mid, and outer) are ideal. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and sunglasses for added comfort at high altitudes.
Make very simple packing for the ABC Heli Tour:
To confirm your heli tour booking, simply contact us with your full details (passport copy, preferred date, and number of passengers) and make the required advance payment. Once confirmed, you’ll receive an official booking confirmation via email or WhatsApp, along with itinerary details. For smooth coordination, we recommend reconfirming your flight time a day before the tour.
The Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour can be done throughout the year, but autumn and spring offer the clearest skies and best visibility. The weather is stable, and temperatures are ideal for flying during these seasons.
The price of a helicopter ride from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp ranges from USD 400 to 800 per person, depending on group size, season, and availability. At Mountain Routes, we offer a group joining tour at just USD 400 per person.
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