- Helicopter
- Easy
- In all Season
Overview
The Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter ride has revolutionized trekking in the Everest region. An alternative has been provided to the chilling flights and risky treks. In the past, you could only get to Lukla, the gateway to Everest Base Camp, spending long difficult days trekking from Jiri.
But in the 1960s, when Lukla Airport was built, a quicker alternative was in existence. Surely it made reaching the destination quicker, but the airport’s short runway and the ever changing weather reports made the ride thrilling but anxiety-driven for many. The stress from constant fear of life was never ending.
The rising issues of these life threatening concerns were then addressed by the introduction of helicopter flights in the early 2000s. Helicopter tour to Lukla, a safer and reliable path to Lukla. The vertical takeoff and landing capabilities give them an inherent versatility, their ability to fly through tight spaces is an ideal choice for the rugged area of the Himalayas as well.
For trekkers today, helicopters are not just used for the extraordinary speed and convenience but also for the stunning 360 views from birds eye. Today the Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter ride is considered an integral part of the Everest trekking adventure and a luxury to those who take it.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Cost Inclusions:
- Helicopter Flight: One-way or round-trip helicopter flight between Kathmandu and Lukla.
- Airport Transfers: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Kathmandu to the helipad.
- Pilot and Crew Fees: Professional pilot and crew with all necessary fees.
- Passenger Insurance: Basic passenger insurance during the flight.
- Fuel Charges: All fuel surcharges and taxes.
Cost Exclusions:
- Meals & Drinks: Any meals, snacks, or beverages during waiting times.
- Personal Expenses: Tips for the pilot and crew or any personal expenses.
- Accommodation: Hotel stays in Kathmandu or Lukla.
- Luggage Charges: Extra luggage fees if exceeding the weight limit.
- Flight Delays: Additional costs due to delays or cancellations caused by weather or unforeseen circumstances.
FAQs About Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Flights
Time-Saving and Efficiency
Previously, those traveling to Lukla had to travel long distances on foot or by plane waking at 2 in the morning heading to Manthali, encountering countless delays not sure what the weather had in store for them. The norm was a six hour drive to Ramechhap followed by a flight to Lukla was a tiring and dulling experience.
The travel time has although been dramatically slashed by the introduction of Flight to Lukla. She eliminates the need for long drives or waiting in crowded airports, reducing the trip to around 40 – 50 minutes. This time saving option is attractive to trekkers who have tight schedules or are looking to get more out of their time on the mountain.
They have more flexibility in scheduling. Fixed wing flights have strict schedules early in the morning, the Helicopter ride is fixed later in the day, very efficient for those who prefer not to rush and enjoy their vaca, even late comers.
Avoiding Weather-Related Cancellations
One of the most common issues about Lukla Plane Flight is the weather. Flight cancellations are common during the region’s monsoon season, the frequent cloud cover means trekkers can be left stranded for days. Helicopters are much better than planes when the weather goes south as they can fly in lower visibility and also in tight spaces. For trekkers, who do not want to be delayed nor miss their flight, helicopters are truly a blessing.
The helicopter’s capability to take off and land vertically makes it a safer option during challenging weather.
Surely adverse weather can still cause cancellation, but in comparison to airplanes Helicopters have a higher chance of safely completing the ride. This is because planes require a long runway, and the visibility from the airplanes cockpit is not as clear as unlike from helicopters, planes cannot fly at lower altitudes and hover in place. Visibility plays a huge role in availing weather related issues and being able to tackle it saves us from last moment cancellation.
Comfort and Convenience
If you are looking for a more comfortable experience, helicopter flight is the best convenient option. Helicopters typically seat five to six passengers, very private and with fewer people than the small, often crowded planes, heading to Lukla. For families or groups that wish to travel comfortably in a group, this is a very alluring choice.
Second, the service of the helicopter is more direct and streamlined. You do not have to wake at 2 AM, make that six hour drive to Ramechhap, and catch a flight. Travelers actually depart directly from Kathmandu, skipping the inconvenience and pain of long, uncomfortable road travel.
In addition, Helicopters can land in rugged places that would otherwise be not accessible, especially by airplanes.
There are plenty of ways to book yourself a Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Tour. Direct booking thru travel agencies is perhaps the simplest option from it all.
Very advantageous and recommended option, as you can have direct access to the service provider and are transparent in pricing, being flexible in scheduling. Ideal for those who rather select the time for their flight themselves.
Via online or physically meet up, you can simply contact our agency Radiant Tours and Treks if you want to take a helicopter ride to Lukla. You simply have to let us know your departure timing and date and will book accordingly. Although we may not be able to organize sharply at the time you suggested, it will surely be near to it and we will let you know.
Even for last minute booking, if you are in Kathmandu and set your mind to take a helicopter last minute instead of airplane, let us know just a day prior and will book a comfortable seat for you. All the logistics in the inclusion will be handled by us and you just need to pack up your personal belongings, sit back, and enjoy the hassle free ride.
In particular, it is strongly recommended to book in advance especially in the months of Autumn and Spring when the peak trekking seasons are on. It is worth it, as the skies are clear and plants are blooming.
Booking early not only makes sure you have a seat when you want it, but it also increases the chance that you will fly alongside other people, making the cost per person cheaper. The sooner you book the better, as you will more likely be able to escape the last minute price surges that come from big demand.
Cancellation policies can vary depending upon the provider, but the majority of companies offer to refund you 100% or 80% of the cost if you cancel your flight more than a few days before you are due to take off. That depends on the company of course, so it is better to stay familiar with their policies.
And if flights get canceled because of weather or other operational problems, companies usually give partial refunds or offer to reschedule your flight at no added cost. But if you had to cancel for some reason, it is important to check that the company you are booking with has decent terms around cancellation so that you are not surprised.
Flight Duration
It takes about 40 to 50 minutes to do the Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter which is quite a quick and efficient way to arrive at the start of your trek. The helicopter is different from the long trek to Ramechhap followed by a helicopter ride to Lukla, it is simple, smooth and direct. Not only is it a time saver, but it also enables trekkers to hold onto their energy for physically demanding trek ahead.
Pretty Views
The helicopter tour to Lukla is also in itself a worth it adventure. As you gain altitude from Kathmandu, you get to see the large valleys, meandering rivers and mountains filled with snow. The flight has views of some of the world’s highest peaks including, for example, Mount Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. This aerial perspective is once in a lifetime for photographers and nature lovers.
As you approach Lukla you can see the famous Tenzing Hillary Airport, located on the mountain side. A stark contrast to the sometimes too rough and nerve wracking landings of fixed wing planes, the helicopter landing is smooth and safe.
Passengers on the helicopter flight will be comfortable and amazed by the beauty. Modern helicopters with safety features are used for smooth transfer even in those conditions of the challenging Himalayan region.
Planes cannot fly at a low altitude, but helicopters do, which means passengers can see valleys and glaciers, and remote mountain villages better. It is generally quieter and steadier than a plane ride, which makes it great for folks who may feel anxious about flying into Lukla.
While the helicopter flight has made some folks nervous about the challenging weather conditions surrounding Lukla, the helicopter flight stands as a solid, reliable and more comfortable alternative.
The Lukla Helicopter Tour in the Himalayas requires weather conditions to be a key factor. The region’s high altitude and varying weather conditions have a huge effect on seasonal fluctuations of flights.
It is best to book your helicopter flight in Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) when the climate is clear skies, mild temperatures, and stable weather. Not only because of the favorable weather but also the amazing visibility during the flight for seeing Himalayan peaks make those the peak trekking seasons
However, flight schedules are often disrupted during the monsoon season (June to August) by heavy rains and thick clouds. Likewise, the fog and snow that come in the winter months (December to February) can also delay or cancel flights. Travelers planning to visit during these off seasons should expect delays and be flexible with itineraries to accommodate any disruption.
If your flight is delayed or even canceled because of weather, it is important to remain flexible. A lot of helicopter companies will reschedule the trip for a later time or day depending on the weather.
Finally, you should also purchase travel insurance that includes flight cancellations coverage, which can save you money, if in anycase bad weather ruins your plans. Another tip for you is to have extra buffer days in your itinerary in case you end up making a schedule change in the event of an unexpectancy.
Cost of Helicopter Ride to Lukla from Kathmandu can range a lot depending if you choose a private charter or a group share. The variation allows for more flexibility dependent on budget and preference. The cost of the full flight for a private helicopter will be somewhere between USD 2500 and USD 3500.
In addition, the price covers the entire helicopter, and it can seat five to six passengers, which is a great choice for families or groups of friends who plan on traveling together.
The downside of a private flight is, of course, the expense, but that tradeoff provides the flexibility and privacy that come from setting your own time and enjoying the flight without any fellow strangers sharing your aircraft. This option offers the comfort and convenience with the personalization that lets you decide your departure time and flight schedule.
Group sharing options, however, are a more affordable option for solo travelers or small groups. On a normal basis, these flights will range between USD 400 to 600 per person, depending on the number of people in the helicopter. Travelers can lower their portion of the total cost by sharing the helicopter with others.
For budget conscious trekkers, this is the perfect option, providing you the same convenience and time saving aspects of a helicopter flight but at a cheaper price than a private charter. The more people on the flight, the lower the cost per passenger. If you are looking to trim the expense without losing the helicopter ride experience this one is an option for you
The price of helicopter flights is affected by many different factors. Seasonality is one key factor. Peak Trekking seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), and during peak trekking seasons the cost is higher due to more demand for flights. The Everest region becomes a hotspot due to these seasons as it offers the best weather for trekking.
However, in the peak monsoon season (June to August) or winter (December to February), demand is low and prices sometimes drop slightly, although flight availability may be affected by the weather.
Another major factor is the number of passengers. The more passengers in a group sharing flight, the less it costs per person. Most of these helicopters have a maximum capacity of five to six passengers. This is an affordable option if you are traveling alone or in a small group as each of your share of the cost gets reduced drastically when fully booked.
The helicopter flight is well worth the price for many trekkers. The biggest advantage is the time saved. Unlike having to drive hours to Ramechhap and only then flying from Manthali Airport, the Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter ride leaves from Kathmandu directly and takes about only 40 to 50 minutes. Not only does it save on travel time, but it also cuts down on fatigue and makes trekkers get into their expedition feeling rejuvenated.
Plus, for most travelers, flying in the helicopter over the Himalayas has lots of beautiful scenery, including Mount Everest, which makes it a must see trip. Peaks that are covered with snow and lush valleys become memorable experiences that improve the value of your trip besides transportation itself.
Helicopters are also more reliable in poor weather and trekkers have greater chance of reaching their destination even if flights are suspended for unwanted weather conditions, making it a considerable option if you want to avoid delayed flight.
Group sharing helicopter flights are one way that budget conscious travelers can enjoy the comfort and convenience of a helicopter flight without spending a fortune on a private charter flight.
Group sharing flights use a helicopter to carry five to six passengers. These flights are significantly cheaper per person, roughly from USD 400 to 600, giving you the chance to travel solo or with a small group while having affordable prices. The trekking agency or helicopter company will usually organize the group, filling the helicopter with other passengers who share a ride to Lukla on the same day.
To join the group sharing flight you can book it through a trekking agency, or choose to book it with the helicopter company directly. To make sure they reduce cost for each person, many agencies coordinate with travelers to make sure that the helicopter is always fully booked.
The waiting list of helicopter companies also grows as more and more people book for the available seats. If you will not travel during peak seasons, book early to secure your spot in a group flight because it is a good idea.
You have more control of time in a private helicopter so their schedule is flexible and they are more personal and exclusive, but it is much more expensive.
Conversely, group sharing flights are great when you can coordinate with other passengers with the same stunning flight but at an extremely lower cost. Since you will be flying in a group, the helicopter’s departure time is based on the other passengers’ flexibility too. Group sharing is the way to go if you are on a budget and willing to take a helicopter ride with other travelers.
Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter is the kind of flight with truly epic views in addition to its challenging conditions. Helicopter operators to Lukla prioritizes safety because of the rugged Himalayan terrain and abrupt weather.
The helicopters of this route have strict safety protocols in place to secure their passengers. One of the most critical aspects is real time weather monitoring so operators can see conditions beforehand, reducing the chances for accidents due to sudden weather.
Helicopters are also subject to routine maintenance checks and Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority set out rules for helicopter operators to comply for the safest operation possible.
Also, the reliability of helicopter ride to Lukla comes from the experience of the pilots. Helicopter companies employ many pilots who already have extensive experience flying in the Everest region, because that is crucial when finding your way around the difficult terrain, let alone the high altitude conditions.
Talking about pilots of companies such as Simrik Air, Air Dynasty, and Heli Everest, they have over many thousands of hours flying experience in these conditions. Those experiences brace them for the additional liabilities associated with one of the most uncivilized and high altitude airports in the world.
Going to Lukla by helicopter is the best way for travelers, emphasizing safety and the experienced operation.
Travelers have to choose between a plane or helicopter, and how to decide is dependent on their cost, time, safety, and availability. Although both helicopters and planes have their benefits, Helicopters generally prove to be more flexible and easier to depend on, especially when you have to work with unpredictable weather.
Delays and Expense
Usually, planes are delayed by weather but helicopters are not. That allows them to operate in a broader range of weather with good flexibility. Especially in the Everest region, where the weather can turn unexpectedly, changing to fog, wind or cloud cover, planes can be grounded.
In addition, helicopters usually have more frequent departures, and the ability to fly on much shorter notice, which makes them most appealing for trekkers on a tight schedule.
Nevertheless, helicopter flights are much more expensive than buying plane tickets.
Finally, planes on the other hand, are more traditional and popular among budget conscious travelers. The good news is that these flights are usually cheaper, but bad news is these flights are much more likely to get delayed or canceled because of the weather.
The short, sloped runway and close proximity to high mountains is an infamous thing about Lukla’s airport. Under poor weather conditions, it can cause frequent flight disruption, and this makes landing and takeoff incredibly difficult.
Safety and dangerous Lukla runway
As with safety, helicopters have many advantages. The main benefit of Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter ride is that, helicopters skip Lukla’s infamous runway. Lukla’s airstrip is one of the most dangerous airstrips in the world, being only 527 meters long, with an altitude of 2,845 meters, you drop off the end of the runway straight into the valley below.
The airstrip here is so challenging and the weather so unpredictable, the risks for planes are high. But helicopters land on helipads next to Lukla, bypassing the perilous runway entirely. It means that travelers can have a little bit of safety from the risk of landing on such a risky short airstrip.
In terms of Availability
Aircraft maintain a fixed schedule, but that schedule is frequently disrupted by weather, resulting in prolonged delays. In contrast, helicopters are more flexible on scheduling and can often keep flying when planes are grounded, providing a better option for travelers who have less time on their hands.
For many trekkers, the higher cost of helicopter flights is regarded as worth it, due to the flexibility, safety and reliability.
Why and When to Choose a Helicopter Over a Regular Flight?
In several cases, a plane to Lukla is replaced by a better option, that is a helicopter. Most travelers choose helicopters because of the region’s unpredictable weather including the delays it causes. Fog, wind, even poor visibility, can lead to grounded planes at the Everest region for hours or even days at a time. However, helicopters can take off even in weather that would make a plane take off impossible.
Another reason to use a helicopter is that you clearly want to avoid Lukla’s hard runway as mentioned before. Landing in Lukla’s short steep airstrip can make many travelers distinctly uncomfortable with a reputation for being one of the most dangerous in the world.
The problem altogether is eliminated by helicopters which do not need a runway for its landing and makes use of helipads near Lukla. It makes landing at the airport much safer, and reduces the risk for the passengers significantly.
For trekkers with a limited time schedule, helicopters are the better choice. If you want to get to a trekking group quickly or are trying to catch up after a delay, helicopters are an easy booking option on shorter notice than planes, and they are less likely to get delayed. Booking a helicopter is an option to avoid extended delays in cases when plane flights are canceled for bad weather or for technical issues.
When loading your bags for a helicopter ride to Lukla from Kathmandu, it is important to pack smart and ensure both comfort and safety. Helicopter space is limited so keeping luggage light is very important.
When flying to Lukla, first start dressing in layers to get used to the large temperature drops between Lukla and Kathmandu, especially when you go up the altitudes. You need a good base layer, a warm fleece and a waterproof jacket. As Lukla is in high altitude, it’s worth bringing some warm accessories like a thick hat, gloves and thick socks.
A lightweight daypackwith water, snacks, camera and important documents is your best bet for carry on. By porters or, in the helicopter’s cargo compartment, larger trekking bags can be transported separately, but weight restrictions typically range from 10 to 15 kg per passenger. Make sure your bag is packed up tight, when helicopters are flying, they can get pretty turbulent.
Other essentials for higher elevation such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a basic first aid kit with altitude sickness meds, pain relievers, and blister care don’t want to be forgotten. Bring a refillable water bottle because staying hydrated is important.
Then pack any required permits (Sagarmatha National Park Permit necessary for all visitors to Everest region, and Khumbu Municipality Entrance Permit, required for entry into Khumbu region) and identification documents for trekking in Everest region, these will be checked at Lukla.
Combining the trek to Everest Base Camp with Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter is a great way for many trekkers to get their adventure started. Helicopter flights are a reliable and convenient way to travel to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The uncertainty of the weather, and the possibility for delays make helicopters a more efficient means of transportation.
And the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla goes beyond just making it to your destination, it’s a thrilling experience with the sweeping trail views of the majestic Himalayas. Once arrived in Lukla, where most trekkers begin, they will begin to trek uphill to Everest Base Camp passing through traditional villages of Phakding, Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. This trek could last several days, which you should use to acclimatize for the ascending altitude.
There are many ways of combining trekking with helicopter travel if you choose to do so. Some trekkers fly into Lukla and follow a traditional trek to Everest Base Camp, and some may take a helicopter return flight from Gorak Shep or Pheriche to Kathmandu after reaching Base Camp.
This latter option is especially appealing for those who don’t have a lot of time on their hands, or for those who simply wish to skip over the more strenuous return track.
The best would be when you combine helicopter flights and trekking. What that means is that you can enjoy trekking, while also having the flexibility of a quick turn back to Kathmandu. With this approach you get to experience the thrill of the trails and the luxury of helicopter travel during your ride.
It’s possible for you to reach directly to the base camp by Everest Base Camp helicopter flight from Kathmandu. If time or physical fitness prevents you from completing the entire trek, this option is the best way to see the hugely popular Base Camp, and to be amazed at the views of Mount Everest.
Flying directly into Everest Base Camp is very different from flying into Lukla. A direct flight will get you to the base of the world’s highest mountain, whereas helicopter flights to Lukla serve mostly as a starting point for the trek.
These flights generally take about 1.5 to 2 hours from Kathmandu and many have a stop at Kala Patthar, a stop known for its ideal location for peak views of Everest and other surrounding peaks. But many of these tours include the opportunity to land at Base Camp, which gives passengers the chance to step out, snap a picture, and enjoy some astounding scenery.
While the direct option of Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter is significantly more expensive (prices start around $1,300 per person), it is a great option for someone who doesn’t have much time, or for those that can’t handle the multi day trek required to physically make it to Lukla. Yet, it is important to know about the thin air at Everest Base Camp, helicopters can’t stay on the ground for very long to avoid altitude related problems.
Anybody opting for a helicopter tour to Lukla, they need to have travel insurance in place. Unpredictable weather patterns in the Himalayas can result in sudden flight delay or cancellations, so insurance is vital protection to your travel plans, and investment.
Travelers going to this area have historically been confronted with everything from altitude sickness, to unforeseen weather. That is why insurance policies have evolved to be more appropriate for people getting into the business of remoteness and high altitude.
When choosing travel insurance, it’s important to make sure that your policy specifically covers the helicopter flights. More and more insurance companies offer plans which cover helicopter travel considering its growing popularity. Ideally look for insurance that also covers cancellations, delays, and rescheduling. In general, the insurance should take care of emergency medical expenses and evacuation, which is needed in areas with limited medical facilities.
In recent years, the number of insurers who have paid attention to risks on adventure travel, is on the rise. These specialized policies take care of altitude related illnesses, which can be a concern flying to places like Lukla.
Make sure to read the fine print before you purchase a policy and make sure that covers high altitude activities. Having travel insurance isn’t just for peace of mind but ensures you are covered financially in case something happens. This way you can be prepared for the beautiful things in the Everest region and not waste time worrying.
Taking this precaution may make all the difference and make the flight a smooth one, and one that you can enjoy when you set off to explore the stunning lands of Nepal.
For most of the adventurers, flying in a helicopter for the first time and getting a first look on the route from Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter tour can be a pretty exhilarating experience. If you’re flying for the first time, here are some good tips to help make your first flight refreshing and hassle free.
First do your seat selection. Usually, the front seats give you the best views and a smoother ride. Try and get yourself a window seat so that you can see the mountains and valleys below.
If you’re prone to suffering from motion sickness, it’s worth being ahead. So, if you can, take anti-nausea medication an hour or so before the flight as this can help overcome any discomfort.
In addition, stay hydrated, even until your departure so you don’t get dehydrated. Before flight you can expect a few initial bumps as the helicopter ascends rapidly. Don’t be afraid of this sensation, it’s normal and part of the helicopter travel thrill, as soon as it begins, relax and enjoy the views when you get to cruising altitude.
Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter tour is described to have the most exciting landings in the world. The airport has a short runway and a steep descent, making for a heart pounding experience. The scenery around you will be stunning, and the adrenaline from the landing makes that extra bit memorable as you near the airport. Upon arrival you will be in the Everest region to begin your trekking.
Finally, enjoy the one and only helicopter tour to Lukla. This amazing flight has unique stories and your pilot can tell you about the surrounding landscapes which will improve your appreciation. The helicopter ride isn’t only for reaching your destination, it’s an adventure itself.
Helicopter flights are now an increasingly common means for adventurous travelers in the Himalayas to view the majestic terrains of this iconic area. Sailing through these flights gives you an unique angle, allowing you to see the impossibly tall mountain peaks and deeply forested valleys from the skies.
It is important to talk about the environmental impact of Helicopter Flights, but it’s equally important to note how this sector is moving towards sustainability.
Regarding carbon footprint, it’s true that helicopters have a higher emissions rate per passenger in comparison to trekking. Nevertheless, they provide vast convenience in travel experience. Helicopters can cut a traveler’s flight time dramatically, reducing travel time for accessing remote areas.
For trekkers with less time, this means getting as much adventure while spending more time roaming the spectacular regions of trails, local culture as well as stunning sights, which Everest offers.
Furthermore, numerous helicopter operators are already taking eco-friendly measures to reduce their effects on the environment. Using more fuel efficient aircraft, or getting into good carbon offset programs, are part of the effort to balance adventure with responsibility.
Flying with operators that focus on sustainability means that travelers can go up in style and at the same time help to conserve the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.
Helicopter flights are also a chance to see the splendor of the Everest region in ways which trekking all alone can’t offer. These are simply the most beautiful aerial views ever, giving a full view of the peaks and valleys from the sky. This thrilling experience might be just what people need to take into consideration for protecting these amazing landscapes for future generations.
Sure, the helicopter comes with a pricier sticker than other transport modes, but it offers time savings, convenience, sheer awe inspiring experience, which makes it a worthwhile purchase for many trekkers. The helicopter is a great way to start your Everest adventure, whether you choose a private charter or a cheaper group flight.
Deciding how to get to the start point in Lukla is crucial if you’re planning your Everest trekking adventure. The traditional overland and plane routes have been reliable for a while, but the helicopter route from Kathmandu has become a popular way to travel, adding numerous advantages to your ride.
Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter ride has one of the main benefits, saving your time. Rather than suffering a long drive to Ramechhap and sitting through potential flight delays, you can fly to Lukla from Kathmandu in 40 to 50 minutes. Not only does this minimize the experience of travel fatigue but also buy you additional time to spend exploring the Everest region.
Another benefit of helicopter tour to Lukla is that you get more flexibility in scheduling. It is also the experience of the helicopter adventure itself, as the helicopter trip includes amazing views of the Himalayas, remote villages, and the super iconic Mount Everest.
Another perk is safety. Helicopter flying enables you to avoid the landing to Lukla’s notoriously dangerous airport with its short runway and steep approach. Helicopters eases the stress of landing in one of the world’s most dangerous airports, and is a comfort in starting your travel.
Regardless of what you choose to ride to Lukla, a private charter or shared flight, helicopter ride makes sure it is thrilling, efficient, and a safe start to your Everest adventure.
What is the luggage limit for helicopters?
On average, each passenger may bring with them luggage weighing approximately 10 to 15 kg (22 to 33 lbs). You can send larger bags separately by porters or cargo services.
Can helicopters land on Everest Base Camp? Is there an extra charge?
Indeed, helicopters can directly land at Everest Base Camp, but it costs a little extra for that. Ask your operator for specific fees.
Does the Helicopter Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla include a round trip, or is there an extra cost?
Most tours will go one-way to Lukla. If you want round trips you have to pay extra so confirm with your operator when booking.
What are the alternative helicopter routes to Lukla?
Phaplu to Lukla and Ramechhap to Lukla are another alternative route to get to the Solukhumbu region, which are less congested than Kathmandu
Best photography spots and tips for shooting from the air?
Enjoy the best views of Mount Everest including the Khumbu Glacier. For distant peaks use a zoom lens, for wide landscapes a wide angle lens.
What is the max overall weight limit of the helicopter?
500 to 600 kg is usually carried by a helicopter, baggage and people included.
Can you fly in a Lukla helicopter at any age?
There’s no hard and fast age limit for passengers. But elderly passengers or those with health problems and babies below the age of 2 should discuss the trip with their consultants given the altitude.
How long does it take in a helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla?
Once you’re in Kathmandu it will take about 45 minutes by helicopter from the city to Lukla, although this can vary slightly due to weather or air traffic.
When is the best time of year to take a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla?
The best times of year to fly are September through November and March through May, when skies are clearer and weather more predictable. These are months of optimal visibility because you get to see the clear beauty of the mountains while sitting in a passenger seat.
Are there restrooms at the Kathmandu and Lukla helipads?
All Kathmandu and Lukla helipads have basic restroom facilities, however amenities can be thin. The facilities at Lukla may be limited so it’s recommended to use the main Airport facilities before departing from Kathmandu.
Can you bring oxygen tanks or medical equipment on board?
Yes, passengers can bring oxygen tanks and any necessary medical equipment, which can indeed be very important to certain travelers who worry about altitude. Let the helicopter operator know earlier, so that they can do all to transport you safely and comfortably.
Are there snacks or drinks allowed on the helicopter flight to Lukla?
There’s no issue with passengers bringing small snacks and small beverages for the short flight. But since there isn’t much cabin space on board, it’s best to bring small, spill proof items and to dispose of waste responsibly at proper areas when you arriv
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