- 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.
Why Take a Helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla?
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.
How to Book a Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Flight?
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.
Best Time to Book
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
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.
Helicopter Flight Duration and Experience
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.
What to Expect During the Flight?
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.
Weather Conditions and Helicopter Flights to Lukla
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.
Handling Delays and Cancellations
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.
Helicopter Flight Cost from Kathmandu to Lukla
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.