The Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour is one of the most effective ways to see the Annapurna region in a single day. It offers unique memories and allows you to enjoy the majestic grandeur of the towering snow-covered Himalayas from…
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour is one of the most effective ways to see the Annapurna region in a single day. It offers unique memories and allows you to enjoy the majestic grandeur of the towering snow-covered Himalayas from…
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Your adventure starts when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the active capital city of Nepal. Our trekking team welcomes you upon your travel arrival before driving you to Thamel Hotel in the hub of tourism. You are free to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square after completing hotel check-in procedures. This cultural landmark contains multiple ancient temples alongside palaces and courtyards which attract visitors throughout the day. Visitors have the opportunity to go to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) if they have remaining time to enjoy the valley sunset view. Guests will experience traditional Nepali dinner along with menu favorite dal bhat while receiving expert information about the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Itinerary during this evening session. Activity: Drive for 30 minutes Max. Altitude: 1,324m/4,344ft. Kathmandu Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 2 :
Preparation Day in Kathmandu
All arrangements for the trek will be completed on this day. You will have your Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) together with a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. The shopping activity can be done at Asan Bazaar or Thamel for both the purchase and lease of last-minute trekking gear. A brief visit to the Pashupatinath Temple allows guests to witness Hindu cremations during ceremonies held on the Bagmati River if time permits. The next stop will be Boudhanath Stupa because it stands as one of the world’s largest Buddhist stupas while monks chant within its colorful setting of prayer flags. The evening concludes with an equipment check followed by a briefing about the trek, and subsequently ends with a restful night before entering the Himalayas. Activity: Sightseeing for 2-3 hours Max. Altitude: 1,324m/4,344ft. Kathmandu Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 3 :
Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Chame (2,550m) via Besisahar (760m)
A picturesque early morning jeep drive leads explorers through the village-rich rural landscape while touring between terraced fields and flowing between the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers and their waterfalls. The trip proceeds through thick forest wilderness from Besisahar (760m) which represents the Annapurna Circuit Trek entry point until it crosses suspension bridges and mountain ridges. On your elevation towards Chame, the headquarters of Manang district, you will notice the snow covered peaks of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal as well as Manaslu. We can witness the hot springs and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries together with apple orchards. The tea house provides a comfortable base from which you can satisfy yourself with both the hot springs and the breathtaking Himalayan views before resting for upcoming hikes. Activity: Drive for 9-10 Hours Max. Altitude: 2,550m/8,366ft. Chame Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 4 :
Acclimatization in Chame (2,550m)
Today in Chame, we have our first acclimatization day for adjusting to rising altitudes. After choosing accommodations in the village you can stroll through the area while seeing the Buddhist monastery and hike up elevation slopes for better altitude adjustment. The Chame Hot Springs sits among some of the top attractions of the region because visitors can bathe in hot mineral water pools as they gaze at Lamjung Himal (6,983m). Travelers can visit Telekhu Hill and be amazed by the breathtaking broad views that showcase the peak views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu ranges. We are offered a perfect atmosphere thanks to its mountaintop air quality and the audibility of the Marshyangdi River until the time arrives to face upcoming demanding circumstances. Activity: Bathing Max. Altitude: 2,550m/8,366ft. Chame Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 5 :
Trek from Chame (2,550m) to Pisang (3,150m)
From Chame, the track leads travelers along multiple river crossings by means of extended suspension bridges and through wet pine forests ascending steep rock cliffs. Visitors today often consider Paungda Danda Rock Face to be one of the most noteworthy attractions because its curved mountain wall reaches 1,500m above the river. The climbing path reveals alpine territory after passing through dense vegetation and lets you see Annapurna II (7,937m) and Pisang Peak (6,091m) for the first time. Your walk of 5 to 6 hours will lead you to the delightful village of Lower Pisang where you can admire traditional Tibetan homes and wooden prayer wheels. You have the option to see spectacular views at the Upper Pisang Monastery along with warm meals in traditional tea houses for relaxing overnight. Activity: Trekking for 5-6 Hours Max. Altitude: 3,150m/10,335ft. Pisang Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 6 :
Trek from Pisang (3,150m) to Manang (3,560m)
The modern trekking route features a shorter, less challenging route through Humde followed by a longer upper path that proceeds through Ghyaru and Ngawal where trekkers can experience breathtaking Himalayan shots. Walking up through this path leads travelers to ancient stone villages where they can see Buddhist shrines along with prayer flags moving in the air. Throughout this trail route, visitors can see the impressive sights of Annapurna III as well as Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak. The valley transforms into a dry desert environment at Manang where locals tend their yak pastures. Manang serves as the major village in this portion of the region which includes the Braga Monastery and Himalayan Rescue Association medical center and multiple bakeries running coffee shops. You will stay overnight in this location to gain better adaptation to the altitude. Activity: Trekking for 5-6 Hours Max. Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft. Manang Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 7 :
Acclimatization in Manang (3,560m)
Today is an important day, as we have yet another acclimatizing day in Manang because of the increasing altitude. You will participate in brief elevation hikes instead of remaining sedentary throughout the day. Trekking to Ice Lake at 4,600m is a widespread choice because it allows visitors to admire the magnificent views of both Annapurna and Tilicho peaks. A short hike to the Gangapurna Glacier and Lake allows you to find the turquoise-colored water facing majestic ice walls against a mountainous backdrop. The Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) medical center is where you can check up for altitude sickness briefing sessions. Located in the Annapurna region, Manang village serves as an exploration base before the trek to offer its Buddhist monasteries, old stone houses, and local bakeries along with its charming atmosphere. Activity: Hiking for 2-3 Hours Max. Altitude: 3,560m/11,680ft. Manang Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 8 :
Trek from Manang (3,560m) to Shree Kharka (4,045m)
From the Annapurna Circuit Trek main path, you will hike into the quiet region around Tilicho Lake. The natural environment moves through alpine forests into rocky cliffs and stretches across arid highlands without many stopping points among settlements. The traditional Tibetan culture of Khangsar Village stands out at its elevation of 3,750 meters together with its ancient monasteries. Shree Kharka emerges near the end of your trek because the terrain turns both steeper and rougher while encircled by imposing cliffs that house grazing herds of yaks. The village stands at a high altitude while allowing visitors to admire both Chulu East Peak and Tilicho Peak. To adapt to the decreasing air pressure you should regulate your water intake along with maintaining a controlled pace. A basic tea house accommodation for the night will give travelers a chance to rest while enjoying food followed by preparation for the upcoming trip Activity: Trekking for 5-6 Hours Max. Altitude: 4,045m/13,271ft. Shree Kharka Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 9 :
Trek from Shree Kharka (4,045m) to Tilicho Base Camp (4,110m)
Today’s path is brief yet troublesome since it travels along a slender pathway with danger from landslides while providing exceptional vistas of Tilicho Peak and Annapurna II together with the Marsyangdi Valley. This trekking area presents one of the most exhilarating sections as the trail leads across steep cliffside edges that give way to vertiginous drops before you. When you arrive at Tilicho Base Camp, you will find yourself enclosed by raw mountain cliffs while peaks are wrapped in snow. Rest and acclimatization activities fill the afternoon since the next day requires climbing to Tilicho Lake (4,920m) which will be the highest point thus far. These remote facilities provide primary amenities that do not compromise the exceptional sensation of experiencing a remote and magnificent place. Activity: Trekking for 4-5 Hours Max. Altitude: 4,110m/13,484ft. Tilicho Base Camp Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 10 :
Trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Shree Kharka via Tilicho Lake (4,920m)
In the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Itinerary, this day reaches its most difficult point together with its most sublime moment. Your itinerary begins with a demanding scale of Tilicho Lake (4,920m) which stands as one of the world’s highest lake destinations. Going up this mountain route demands between 3 to 4 hours to navigate harsh terrains with icy trails and loose rocky surfaces. When you arrive at the lake you will see its deep blue water surface reflecting the surrounding snow peaks including Tilicho, Nilgiri, and Khangsar Kang. From the captivating viewpoint, you return back to Tilicho Base Camp and then descend to Shree Kharka. You will finish this demanding day at a basic tea house which provides you with relaxation. Activity: Trekking for 3-4 Hours Max. Altitude: 4,920m/16,142ft. Shree Kharka Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 11 :
Trek from Shree Kharka to Ledar (4,240m) via Yak Kharka (4,000m)
From Shree Kharka you will get back to the primary path of the Annapurna Circuit Trek to hike across the lovely Yak Kharka which lies underneath the surrounding massifs. Only alpine scenery remains between these points with valleys that present dry open conditions and less tree growth. You can have a chance to witness groups of blue sheep and yaks as they feed in the stony pastureland. The reduced atmospheric pressure demands controlled walking at a moderate speed for healthy breathing at this altitude. At the end of 5 to 6 hours, you will arrive at Ledar (4,240m) which consists of a few lodges in a small settlement. You can enjoy remarkable peak views of Annapurna III while looking at Chulu West from this location. The combination of hot food with an early bedtime will help you adjust for your upcoming challenging climb tomorrow. Activity: Trekking for 4-5 Hours Max. Altitude: 4,240m/13,911ft. Ledar Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 12 :
Trek from Ledar (4,240m) to High Camp (4,850m) via Thorong Phedi (4,540m)
The trail leads to Thorong Phedi at 4,540 meters, which serves as the penultimate resting point before Thorong La Pass. The path progressively becomes steeper and rougher because it includes loose rocks and exposed ridges. The majority of trekkers choose Thorong Phedi as their base camp, but continuing to High Camp (4,850m) reduces the intensity of the upcoming tough climb. The ascending path delivers better and better viewpoints of Gundang, Khatungkang, and Thorong Peak. Climbing to High Camp involves additional work, which yields spectacular sunset scenery across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. You must protect yourself from the upcoming cold night at high altitude through proper layering and hydration, since tomorrow will be a challenging day. Activity: Trekking for 4-5 Hours Max. Altitude: 4,850m/15,912ft. High Camp Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 13 :
Trek from High Camp to Muktinath (3,765m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
Today brings you the utmost demanding yet rewarding experience throughout your trekking journey. Your ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m) will begin right after sunrise because it stands as the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You must climb forward in slow motion because of the challenging conditions which include thin air and freezing temperatures to experience the unparalleled feeling at the pass. The summit offers visitors a mountainous view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang Valley which can be seen while observing prayer flags fluttering against the wind and a small teahouse nearby. The trail leading to Muktinath (3,765m) extends for a long distance while displaying beautiful vistas that resemble Tibetan highlands. Local and international devotees of both religions consider Muktinath to be sacred because it contains an eternal fire along with 108 holy water spouts used for ritual washings. Activity: Trekking for 9 Hours Max. Altitude: 3,765m/12,352ft. Muktinath Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 14 :
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,880m) via Lubra (2,990m)
Following a relaxation-filled visit to the Muktinath Temple complex, the trek descends to Lubra Village where a Buddhist Bon monastery remains among the diminishing number in Nepal. The trail passes through a lovely dry riverbed showing Nilgiri along with Dhaulagiri and the world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki Gorge. Jomsom reveals itself through the landscape shift from dry Mustang aridness to abundant vegetation. Walking through this area becomes thrilling because of its powerful afternoon winds. The administrative district of Mustang with its airport and shops provides a suitable rest spot where you can celebrate your trekking adventure through Jomsom. You will stay overnight in a tea house accommodation before returning to Pokhara. Activity: Trekking for 6-7 Hours Max. Altitude: 2,880m/9,449ft. Jomsom Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Day 15 :
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
From Jomsom, you will enjoy a breathtaking 20-minute plane ride to Pokhara which provides magnificent views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. From above the Kali Gandaki Valley becomes one of the breathtaking views together with peaks covered in snow and the rolling green hills of the valley. You will arrive at Pokhara for hotel check-in before having independent time to discover the city. Spend your relaxation time by the Phewa Lake or look out from the World Peace Pagoda while you also enjoy the active shopping area of Lakeside. The pleasant climate of Pokhara together with its warmer temperatures than the mountainous regions creates an optimal environment for rest and contemplation about the incredible Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake experience. Activity: Fly for 20 minutes Max. Altitude: 820m/2,690ft. Pokhara Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 16 :
Drive to Kathmandu and Departure
A 6 to 7-hour drive takes you from Pokhara to Kathmandu through stunning landscapes featuring river views of Marshyangdi and Trishuli River and rolling hills, tiny villages, and hillside terraced farms. Once you arrive you should dedicate your time to viewing the sights of Thamel while buying gifts and spending time in cafés or checking destinations that escaped your initial notice. The final step of your trip will take you to the airport en route to eventually reach your home base while your adventurous memories stay imprinted on your mind. This concludes an amazing Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Itinerary that combines cultural encounters with physical hurdles while presenting stunning scenic views. Activity: Drive for 6-7 Hours Max. Altitude: 1,324m/4,344ft. Kathmandu Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: 3 star Hotel
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Accommodation Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel for 3 nights in Kathmandu and one nights in Pokhara including breakfast (Private room accommodation can be organized at an extra cost) Best available accommodation Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek Meals & Drinking Water All your standard meals during the trek 3 meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) in a guest houses A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal Purified drinking water during the trek using Water Filter or water purification tablets. Transportation Private transportation to and from Kathmandu Airport and your hotel Private transportation from Kathmandu to Chame (trek start) and Muktinath to Tatopani Flight Ticket from Jomson (trek end) to Pokhara Pokhara to Kathmandu on a tourist bus Guide and Staff Experienced, first-aid trained, government licensed, English speaking, and locally recruited Nomad Adventure’s trekking guide (2 guides for group size more than 7 people) Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance and medications for all staff Medical Assistance Assistance in arranging rescue operations in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance) Medical kits, including an oximeter to monitor blood oxygen saturation levels in high altitudes Permits Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card Benefits and Takeaways Sleeping bags and down jackets, duffle bag (one for every two trekkers) if you do not have your own company’s T-shirt & Cap Trip completion certificate Administrative & Taxes All administrative expenses and government taxes
The Cost Excludes
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara International flight fare and airport departure tax Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 30 for 15 days visa, USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa. Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients available at extra cost of 20$ per day) Guided tour in Kathmandu (Private car + tour Guide), Monument entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee $26 Extra night accommodations in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early return from the trek or other itinerary changes Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage Medical check-ups, vaccinations, or medications required for the trek are not included. Any beverages including bottled and boiled water Tips to trekking staff and driver Personal trekking gear and equipment Any expenses other than the Price Include section Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boiled bottle water, hot (Tea/ Coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc Personal clothing and gear
FAQs
How long does it take to get to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) from Kathmandu?
The Annapurna Base Camp is 168 kilometers away from Kathmandu City. The Annapurna Helicopter Tour will take around four hours to reach the base camp, including the landing time.
Is a helicopter ride to ABC worth it?
If you want to experience the Annapurna region’s stunning beauty quickly without hiking in the mountains, then the 1-day ABC Heli Tour is for you. But if you adore hiking and want to explore the region on foot, you should book a package according to your preference.
Is oxygen provided on the helicopter in case of an emergency?
Yes, the helicopter is equipped with supplementary oxygen if needed due to the increasing elevation on this Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour adventure.
When should I book the 1-day Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
Book your helicopter experience at least a month, a week, or a few days in advance. Before boarding in a chopper, you must pay in full. The fee depends on the number of people and the private or shared helicopter you choose.
What if I need to cancel my helicopter flight?
In accordance with our company’s rules and conditions, you can cancel your flight and get a refund.
Can we book a private helicopter for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour adventure?
Of course, you can charter a private helicopter for the ABC Heli Tour. You will get the entire flight to yourself, but it is more expensive than a shared flight. Before you reach in Nepal, please contact us to arrange for a private helicopter.
Is a shared helicopter available for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
Of course, shared helicopters are available during peak seasons and are more affordable than private helicopters. However, shared helicopters may not be available in the off-season.
Is there a possibility of a flight delay for the 1-day ABC Heli Tour?
Bad weather conditions or technical issues may cause a flight delay for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. However, we always aim to stick to the schedule.
Can I take photos during the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour?
Of course, you can freely photograph the jaw-dropping Himalayas and other amazing landscapes from an aerial view.
Can the Annapurna Helicopter Tour be combined with a trekking adventure?
Without any question, you can combine a helicopter tour with trekking. You can choose to trek until you reach Annapurna Base Camp and return by helicopter to experience the Annapurna region by walking and flying.
