Best Time For Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour – Autumn and Spring

The trek to the foothills of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, is a dream and on a bucket list, whether you are a traveler or not. Indeed, seeing the Great Himalayas in front and up close is a surreal feeling. As mentioned ahead, the Everest Base Camp is a dream for everyone. And the best part? Regardless of your age and condition, the Everest Base Camp is attainable. The best time for the Everest base camp helicopter tour is in Autumn.

If you’re traveling by helicopter all this trek but do not want to walk all the way, the Eonly is it excellent for fees or individuals who experience is also a nice get abut when family vaca wonder for those who wish to experience main trip in a short timefraruinowever, as you buckle up option is rugged terrain surrounded by gigantic snow-caglideuntains and pristwesternaciers, you can’t help Thi this action “Which season should I travel to this destination?” “I want to have the best experience; which of the season might be the best choice?”

Well, the answer is simple. Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November) are the best seasons for the helicopter trek due to blue skies and high visibility. Yet again, all the seasons have unique aspects and provide their own experiences.

Details of the Everest Base Camp Heli Tour

• Tour Region: Everest Region
• Tour Duration: Customizable
• Tour Difficulty: Easy
• Tour Days: Customizable
• Maximum Altitude: 5,644.5 meters (18,519 feet) at Kala Patthar
• Medium of Transport: Helicopter
• Starting And Ending Point: Kathmandu
• Best Seasons: Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November)

Highlights Of The Tour

• Explore the Everest region and reach the Everest Base Camp.
• Witness the gigantic peaks from the bird’s eye view.
• Land at Kala Pathhar at an altitude of 5,644.5 meters (18,519 feet).
• Pass through the Sagarmatha National Park.
• Get mesmerizing views of various snow-capped peaks, such as Mount Everest (8,849 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), Nuptse (7,861 meters), Phortse (3,950 meters), Cho Oyu (8,210 meters), and many more.
• Outstanding view of the Khumbu Glacier.
• Visit Everest View Hotel and relax.
• Get a sneak peek at the daily lifestyle and culture of the Sherpa people.
• Witness the iconic Sherpa towns such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Lobuche.
• Visit the Hillary Museum at Namche Bazaar.
• Experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Itinerary Of Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour

The best part of the Everest Base Camp tour with helicopter ride is that it is customizable according to your preference. You can trek to the camp and return by helicopter, take a half-way helicopter ride, or take a full helicopter tour.

If you choose to accomplish this journey with a full helicopter tour, you can either start from Kathmandu or Ramechhap. If you are traveling during the off-season, the helicopter journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which takes around 40 minutes.

Likewise, if you embark on this journey during peak seasons (March, April, May, September, October, and November), you will fly to Ramechhap and then move on to Lukla. You can also take a ride instead of a flight to reach Ramechhap.

The flight from Ramechhap to Lukla is only 20 minutes. As you enter Lukla, you will pass through the deep gorge of Dudh Koshi Valley, and as soon as you land, you will trek uphill. The route is expanded on the left side of the Dudh Koshi River, where you will also get the initial views of Mt Nupla (5,885 meters), Kusum Kangaru (6,367 meters), and the Mount Kwongde Range.

In this initial phase, you will pass through the Phakding and Monjo Villages and finally reach the Namche Bazaar. Here, Monjo Village is called the gate to Sagarmatha National Park. During this route, you will pass through pine and fir forests, several suspension bridges, waterfalls, blooming magnolias, and rhododendrons.

At this point of the trek, you will get a glimpse of Kusum Kanguru (6,369 meters), Thamserku (6,608 meters), Everest (8,848 meters), and Nuptse (7,879 meters). Additionally, by this time, you will be standing at 3,440 meters.

From this point onwards, you will also have several customizable options for the trek. You can explore this magnificent Namche Bazaar and then take a helicopter ride to land on Kala Patthar.

Before that, you can hike to Everest View Hotel and roam around. This helicopter ride will take you to Kala Patthar at an altitude of 5,644 meters.

Alternative Everest Base Camp Heli Tour Packages

If you want to experience the mesmerizing Himalayas with helicopter tours, there are plenty more route options. You can also journey trekking.

Some of such packages are listed below.

• Everest Base Camp Trek With Heli Return (3 Days)
• Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek (9 Days)
• Everest Base Camp Trek W, ith Return By Helicopter (5 Days)
• Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lake Helicopter Trek
• Everest View Luxury Trek – Return By Helicopter

Best Time For Everest Heli Tour: Seasons And Weather

The Everest region offers spectacular views of the majestic peaks (in fact, some of the highest peaks in the world). With breathtaking scenery, the weather is also unpredictable the higher you climb. However, this Everest View Helicopter trek can be attainable all year round.

With this journey, you can get a bird’s eye view of the snow-capped peaks with clear blue skies. This high-altitude tour offers an intimate scene fit for all four seasons of Nepal. However, the best seasons for this travel are Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and Himalayas trails in the mesmerizing king activities; the hues spring season is the most favorable period of the year, and it extends from March to May. This is because the Spring brings a blossoming adventure and vibrant renewal of nature.

Some of the major highlights of the season during the trek are as mentioned below.

• Moderate temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and is neither too hot nor too cold.
• Pleasant weather with blue, clear skies and bright white clouds.
• Sunny days and comfortable evenings with unobstructed views of the Himalayas.
• Lush, green forests with carpets of grass and fields.
• Blooming Rhododendron (Nepali Nameuras) forests along the trails of the Himalayas are mesmerized in red, pink, and white.
• Breathtaking sunset and sunrise views from the Everest region.
• There is a higher chance of cultural exchange and socialization due to the high number of trekkers from all around, and the probability of will ring sightings such as Himalayan Tahr Deer, Red Panda, and many more.
• It extended daylight hours.
• Stunning opportunities for photography.
• You will have the chance to witness significant festivals such as the Tibetan New Year (Lhosar) and the Nepali New Year (Naya Barsa).
• There are bird-watching opportunities with multiple species, such as the Colorful Impeyan Pheasant (Nepali Name: Danphe), Himalayan Griffon, snow pigeon, and blood pheasant.

While Spring is one of the best times to travel, it also has its cons, especially for travelers who do not get along with the crowds.

Some cons of traveling to the Everest Region during Spring are mentioned below.

• Due to the popularity of the trekking region and favorable weather conditions, the trails and viewpoints are often busy and filled with crowds.
• Although Spring brings moderate temperatures and blissful weather conditions, occasional rain showers might occur as it is located at a high altitude.
• Usually, the costs of the services, including the helicopter fees, guides, porters, and even food, drinks, and accommodation, hike up due to the high number of travelers during the season. Yes, the prices get much higher than those during other seasons.
• With the busy crowds, packed trails, and helicopter services, communication often gets distracted due to busier networks.
• Most of the services and facilities provided by accommodation places (hotels, teahouses, and lodges) are easily packed during Spring, and booking becomes difficult and often inaccessible.

Monsoon / Summer (June, July, And August)

After the chilling weather of Spring comes the wet and heavy rainfall season, which extends from June to August in Nepal; while most of the trails in the lower region are accessible, it is pretty challenging to embark on the Everest Base Camp journey during this season.

Yet again, if you can stick and pull through this rough weather, you will be rewarded with glorious views of the snow-capped mountains glistening in the sun after heavy rainfall.

Some of the major highlights of the season during the trek are as mentioned below.

• Empty trails and places to stay contribute to peace and solitude due to fewer travelers.
• Multiple off-season discounts on food, beverage, and accommodation.
• Cheaper flight rates with budget-friendly options.
• Booking is unnecessary as the flights and accommodation are readily available.
• After a rain shower, a fresh and glistening view of the lush green vegetation, wild berries, and snow-capped mountains.
• The hills are covered in vibrant rhododendrons in bright rank and white hues.
• Relatively warm tempera gestures without having to deal with frigid temperatures.
• Little to no rain in altitudes above 4000 meters.

Below are some cons of traveling to the Everest Region during the Monsoon / Summer season.

• Wet and slippery trails due to rainfall.
• There are higher chances of natural calamities such as landslides and soil erosion due to rain.
• Obstructed views of the mighty peaks due to cloudy weather.
• Trails get challenging, and the days are gloomy.
• Mosquitoes and leeches all along the trails.
• Flight cancellation due to heavy clouds and rainfall.

Autumn (September, October, and November)

The Autumn season can be defined as the days after heavy rain showers. It is all about peace, tranquility, freshness, and good feelings. It is also one of the peak seasons for trekking in Nepal.

Some of the major highlights of the season during the trek are as mentioned below.

• Moderate temperature that is neither too hot nor cold with pleasant sunny weather.
• There is little to no chance of rain showers in the upper and lower regions of the nation.
• Crystal-clear skies with little to no clouds.
• Festival season with the chance to celebrate major Nepali festivals, Dashain and Tihar.
• Chance to celebrate other events such as Chhat Parva, Mani Rimdu, and Yomari Punhi.
• Seasonal and wildflowers bloom all along the trails.
• Dry and fresh season.
• The forests start to get golden due to changing weather.
• Fewer trekkers than in the Spring season.
• Photographic opportunities to capture the landscapes during the sunset and sunrise views.

Below are some cons of traveling to the Everest Region during the Monsoon / Summer season.

• Unpredictable and sudden weather patterns with high winds, foggy weather, and light snow during the end of the season.
• Low visibility during the end of the season.
• A large number of crowds due to peak season and favorable days.
• Short daylight due to the upcoming winter season.
• It is hard to find accommodation and book flights due to the numerous travelers.

Winter Season

The Winter season is the least favored and also the least recommended. It is only recommended for travelers and trekkers who have years of trekking experience and are searching for thrill and adventure in their journey.

Some of the major highlights of the season during the trek are as mentioned below.

• Easy availability of the accommodation (hotels, lodges, and teahouses).
• Peaceful trails and solitude during the journey due to fewer travelers.
• White landscapes with glistening snow craft the region as a fairy tale world.
• Off-season discounts on flights, accommodation, and other facilities during the trip.
• Mesmerizing views of the snowy landscapes and mountains.
• It is an adventure-filled journey with thrilling experiences.
• Rare opportunity to witness wildlife such as Himalayan Monal, Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, and Snow Leopard.

Some cons of traveling to the Everest Region during the Winter season are mentioned below.

• There are higher chances of flight cancellation or postponement due to harsh weather conditions.
• Heavy snowfall often blocks the trails and paths to the higher regions.
• The extreme cold may cause frostbite and difficulty during the journey.
• The tracks are often icy, making the path slippery and hard to attain.
• Little to no travelers in the region for trek may bring loneliness.
• Most shops and accommodation places may be closed due to heavy snow.
• There are higher chances of avalanches due to the snowfall.
• Obstructed views of the Himalayas due to heavy fog.

Temperature of Mount Everest Base Camp During Different Months

The weather conditions and temperature in the Everest Base Camp are extreme. Not to mention, the Everest region is said to have experienced some of the windiest days.

Below is the month-by-month evaluation of the year’s weather conditions and temperature range.

• January (The Coldest Month Of The Year): Maximum day temperature of around six °C (42.8°F) and night temperature as low as -20°C (-4°F) or even lower.
• February (The End Of the Winter Season): Daytime temperatures are consistently below freezing, and nighttime temperatures can drop to -15°C (5°F) or lower.
• March (The Start Of the Spring Season): The daytime temperature is between -2 and -8°C (28.4 to 17.6°F), and the nighttime temperature can drop to -12°C (10.4°F).
• April (Spring Season At Its Fullest): Average daytime temperature ranges from -2 to -10°C (28.4 to 14°F). At night, temperatures can drop to around -12°C (10.4°F).
• May (The End Of Spring Season): Daytime temperatures range between -2 to -5°C (28.4 to 23°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around -10°C (14°F).
• June (The Start Of Monsoon Season): The average day temperature is around 2 to -2°C (35.6 to 28.4°F), but it can drop to about -8°C (17.6°F) at night.
• July (Peak of Monsoon Season And The Hottest Month Of The Year): Average daytime temperature between 2 to -2°C (35.6 to 28.4°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to -8°C (17.6°F).
• August (Last Month Of Monsoon Season): The temperature is similar to July’s. The average temperature is around 1 to -1°C (33.8 to 30.2°F) during the day, while at night, it can drop to around -7°C (19.4°F).
• September (The Start Of the Autumn Season): The average daytime temperature is around 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F), while the nighttime temperature is between -1 to -5 °C (30.2 to 23°F).
• October (Peak Trekking Season): Maximum day temperature of around 12 to 16°C (53.6 to 60.8°F) and night temperature as low as -6 to -10°C (21.2 to 14°F).
• November (The End Of The Autumn Season And Welcoming Winter): Average daytime temperature ranges from 6 to 10°C (42.8 to 50°F). At night, temperatures can drop to around -10 to -14°C (14 to 6.8°F).
• December (The Start Of Winter Season): Daytime temperatures range between -5 to 5°C (23 to 41°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around -15 to -20°C (-5 to -4°F).

Major Attractions During The Everest Base Camp Heli Tour

The Everest Base Camp Heli Tour is a perfect package for people with limited time and experience who still want to experience the beauty of the majestic peaks. It is the best option to trek through the foothills of these high peaks as a substitute for the classical Everest trek.

Snow-Capped Mountains Seen During The EBC Trail

• Mount Everest (8,848 meters / 29,029 feet)
• Lhotse (8,516 meters / 27,940 feet)
• Nuptse (7,861 meters / 25,791 feet)
• Changtse (7,543 meters / 24,747 feet)
• Pumori (7,161 meters / 23,494 feet)
• Lingtren (6,749 meters / 22,142 feet)
• Khumbutse (6,640 meters / 21,785 feet)
• Ama Dablam (6,812 meters / 22,349 feet)
• Mount Nupla (5,885 meters / 19,307.74 feet)
• Kusum Kangaru (6367 meters / 20,889 feet)
• Thamserku (6,608 meters / 21,679 feet)
• Mount Kantega (6,179 meters / 20,279 feet)
• Makalu (8,481 meters / 27,825 feet)
• Cho Oyu (8,188 meters / 26,864 feet)
• Baruntse (7,129 meters / 23,389 feet)
• Nirekha Peak (6,069 meters / 19,911 feet)
• Tawoche (6,495 meters / 21,309 feet)
• Mera Peak (6,476 meters / 21,247 feet)
• Arakam Tse (6,372 meters / 20,906 feet)
• Island Peak or Imja Tse (6,160 meters / 20,210 feet)
• Pheriche Peak (6,814 meters / 22,349 feet)
• Kyajo Ri or Kyojo Ri (6,186 meters / 20,295 feet)
• Phari Lapcha (6,059 meters / 19,878 feet)
• Kwangde (6,011 meters / 19,721 feet)
• Nangkar Tsang (5,083 meters / 16,676 feet)
• Cho La Peak (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet)

Animals Seen In The EBC Trail

• Himalayan Tahr
• Himalayan Marmot
• Red Panda
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Snow Leopard
• Domestic Yak
• Musk Deer
• Mountain Weasel
• Pikas
• Yellow-throated Marten

Birds Seen In The EBC Trail

• Himalayan Monal or Lhophophorus (Nepali Name: Danphe)
• Himalayan Snowcock
• Yellow-billed Chough
• Himalayan Griffon
• Blood Pheasant
• Golden Eagle
• Spotted Nutcracker
• Great Rosefinch
• Grandala
• Lammergeier
• Red-billed Chough
• Horned Lark
• Black Redstart
• Robin Accentor
• Alpine Accentor
• Whistler’s Warbler
• Little Forktail

Plant Species Seen In The EBC Trail

• Rhododendron
• Oak
• Juniper
• Maple
• Himalayan Birch
• Himalayan Edelweiss
• Bamboo
• Pine
• Lichens
• Mosses
• Fir
• Wild Rose
• Hemlock
• Lily of the Valley
• Anemone Clemantis
• Drumstick Primerose
• Kumaon Iris
• Spiny Mountain Poppy
• Silky Rose

What To Pack For the Everest Base Camp Heli Tour?

While the gear and equipment list for the Everest Base Camp Heli tour depends on the season you are traveling, some must-haves are listed below.

• Sunscreen
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Socks
• Comfortable hiking boots
• Sleeping bag
• Headlight
• Lip balm
• Down Jacket
• Inner wears
• Trekking trousers and shorts
• Thermal Base Layers
• Scarf or neck gaiters
• Waterproof jacket
• Personal medication and first aid kit
• Portable charger and adapters
• Camera or smartphone
• Lightweight backpack
• Water bottle

Permits & Insurance For The Everest Base Camp Heli Tour

The Mount Everest Base Camp journey is not all about merely checking off a bucket list wish, as it is a lifetime experience. Reaching the Everest Base Camp means entering the Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO Heritage Site).

Hence, you will have to get permits before entering this region. Are you wondering why a permit is necessary and why you need one? Let us answer it. Having this permit with you ensures the record of the travelers entering the region and is a means for local earnings to preserve the environment.

While trekking to the Everest Base Camp only requires two permits, taking a helicopter tour to Everest requires four permits: TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System), Khumbu Rural Municipality permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and Aviation Permit.

You must bring a photocopy of your passport and some passport-sized pictures to get these permits. You can get the permits from the Tourism Board in Kathmandu.

TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System)

No matter which region you trek in Nepal. The TIMS permit is a must-have. It helps the government track the number of visits to a specific area, and as it contains details of the travelers, it is used to maintain their safety. Although a helicopter tour does not include trekking for long, having a TIMS permit ensures an organized trek.

Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit

Often, whether you land in or out of the national park with a helicopter depends on whether you need a Khumbu Rural Municipality permit. These local permits later aid in funding community development programs.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

You must provide an entry permit when you enter the Sagarmatha National Park’s border. The money collected with this permit goes to preserve and maintain the park. Like the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, this National Park permit also controls the number of visitors.

Aviation Permit

If you are taking a helicopter tour, there are two permits: one that the helicopter flights must adhere and the other one is the landing permit.

The helicopter flight mission must come from the aviation a, which guarantees aviation standards, safety guidelines, and air traffic control procedures. Likewise, the other permit is to land in a particular place.

Because of the problematic landscapes, these permits are essential to approve helicopter movements in the Khumbu region.

Insurance

Buying insurance before booking the Everest Base Camp Heli Tour is essential, as the insurance will cover all your activities even while standing at an altitude of 6,000 meters. Apart from minor injuries and cuts during the journey, this insurance will cover your helicopter evacuation expenses during a severe injury or illness. Additionally, before buying insurance, you should check what expenses it covers.

Why Choose Above The Himalayas For Everest Base Camp Heli Tour?

While numerous helicopter operators provide the Everest Base Camp Tour, Above The Himalayas stands out for several reasons. Here’s why you must choose us to experience the Himalayas from a bird’ s-eye perspective.

Years of experience

Above the Himalayas, Trekking has had years of experience in the travel industry since its operation in 2007 and has provided comprehensive travel services. Not to mention, they are an international award winner with three total awards under the name: Asia’s Most Promising Trekking Company Award 2023, Business Excellence Award by Master Mind University UK, International Icon Award for Most Iconic and Promosing Role in Trekking, Adventure, Tourism of 2024.

Recognition and In-depth Knowledge

Alongside expert knowledge and exceptional services, Above the Himalayan Trekking is an active member of TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal) and NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association). They are also the life members of KEEP (Kathmandu Environment Education Project) and the Nepal Tourism Board members.

Paramount Safety

While providing exceptional delivery and trekking services, they prioritize safety. Every member is trained to care for travelers and has basic first-aid training. Additionally, the helicopters are given routine inspections before the journey and adhere to safety standards. Lastly, the pilots are well-versed in handling any circumstances during high-altitude flights.

Hassle-free booking with competitive pricing

With Above the Himalayan Trekking, you will get value for money without compromising the quality of the tour. Additionally, it has responsive customer service that is readily available and provides hassle-free booking options.

Positive testimonials and reviews

With numerous positive reviews from travelers worldwide, Above the Himalaya has been recognized for excellence by TripAdvisor, The Independent, Travel Tales from India and Abroad, and NATA News. (Journal of Athletic Training).

Things To Keep In Mind Before Joining The Everest Base Camp Heli Tour

While a helicopter tour to the Everest Base Camp does not require a strenuous walk, you should be prepared beforehand, considering the factors that might affect your journey.

Physical Health And Fitness

Although the Everest Base Camp Heli Tour does not require extreme physical movement like the classical Everest Base Camp trek, it does require landing at a high altitude. Hence, you should consult your doctor beforehand if you have health problems.

Altitude Acclimatization And Altitude Sickness

A helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp will instantly take you to a high altitude. You will acclimate up to 5,500 meters of altitude within a few hours. After reaching the high altitude, you may suffer from Acute Motion Sickness (AMS). Whether you are physically fit or not, it may happen to anyone.

Weather Conditions

The weather in the Himalayas is often unpredictable, no matter the season you are traveling in, especially during the Winter and Autumn. Hence, it would help if you were prepared accordingly and kept a buffer time zone during the journey. There might be unexpected flight cancellations or delays in the plan.

Safety Precautions

While on the helicopter journey, you should adhere to the aviation safety policies and procedures. Ensure you get the pre-flight briefing.

Packing Essentials

Always pack light according to the season. Do not overpack, and remember any weight restrictions they set.

Necessary Documents And Cash

Be sure to carry all necessary documents during the journey, such as your passport and pictures. Also, you should buy insurance and have all the permits required for the tour.

Furthermore, it would help if you carried enough cash during the journey, as the region lacks ATMs and digital payment services. You can also withdraw money from ATMs near the valleys. If you have a foreign card, the withdrawal limit is Rs 35,000, and Rs 500 is taken as a processing fee.

Be A Responsible Traveler

• Do not litter during the journey, and dispose of the waste properly in a designated area.
• Respect the culture and tradition of the local people and community.
• Dress modestly. The Nepalese people, especially the ones residing in remote areas, are very conservative and do not like PDA (Public Display of Affection). Do not wear short clothes.
• Always ask permission before taking pictures of religious sites or local people.
• Take off your shoes before entering any houses or religious sites.
• Do not make your trails and follow the originally-led path to decrease the chance of destroying the local species of flora in the region.
• Treat your team of guides, porters, and other members with respect.
• Help locals by supporting their small businesses.
• If you ever set up a campfire or anything of the sort, remember to extinguish it.
• Carry a reusable bottle.

In A Nutshell

The Everest Base Camp heli tour is a dream come true for all travelers. It takes you straight to the laps of the Himalayas, white landscapes, and culture-filled land. The trip gets extra beautiful as you experience the varied landscapes and towering peaks through a bird’s eye.

In the meantime, you will get to experience the peace and thrill of flying so high at the same time. It is a perfect vacation for people who have limited vacation time, do not want to put extra time on the journey, or do not want to strain themselves physically.