Don't want to take any chances with the uncertain domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla? Here's the solution. Book a helicopter flight instead. The Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu helicopter flight is the most reliable way to travel to Lukla, the starting and ending point of the Everest Base Camp trek and other treks in the Khumbu region.
Nepal has a reputation for its adventure tourism in one of the most remote locations. The rough terrains of the Himalayas that were far and difficult to reach decades ago are now easily accessible. The raw adventure is now made simpler with facilities like helicopter flights. This is an excellent advancement for someone who's passionate about the mountains but not a fan of adventures or for someone who simply wants to travel comfortably.
The Kathmandu to Lukla helicopter flight takes about 45 minutes to reach Lukla from Kathmandu and occupies a total of 5 passengers. You might have heard about the incredible views you can see from a typical Lukla flight. The scenery you witness from the helicopter is nothing less than a heavenly experience as it flies lower than the regular flights.
Our pick-up and drop-off helicopter service runs throughout the year, making it accessible even during the off-season. The standard Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu during the peak trekking season (Spring and Autumn). If you're traveling around that time, the helicopter flight is more convenient as it saves you from a long drive to Ramechhap from Kathmandu and back.
Best Features of Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Flight
- Two-way direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and back to Kathmandu
- Operates even in slightly lousy weather
- Skipping the risks of delay and cancellation of regular flights due to bad weather or air traffic
- Fast, convenient, and safe flights compared to standard domestic flights
- Enjoy the best aerial perspective of the magnificent Everest region's landscape
- Excellent views of 18 mountain ranges, including 4 eight-thousanders
- Most effective means of transportation in case of medical emergencies
- Available for last-minute reservation
What to expect in the Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu helicopter flight?
The Kathmandu Lukla Kathmandu helicopter flight is a two-way helicopter service that picks you up from Kathmandu airport and drops you off at Lukla airport, and again takes you back to Kathmandu after you're done with your trekking, mountaineering, or exploration.
Since the helicopter flies at a lower altitude than regular airplanes, the views from the chopper are up close and more distinct, making the Heli ride even more fun and enjoyable. You'll witness the great Himalayas and its high mountain peaks. The landscape of the Khumbu region appears as if it's a piece of heaven. The snow-clad mountains, human settlements at such height, dense forests decorated with gorgeous wildflowers, unique vegetation that changes frequently, and the pristine water bodies, everything that you see from above is mesmerizingly beautiful.
The scenery is equally beautiful on your return from Lukla to Kathmandu. After trekking for weeks in the arduous Himalayan terrain, you will witness Everest's beauty once more from the air.
Why take our Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu Helicopter Flight service?
Taking the Kathmandu Lukla Kathmandu helicopter flight has numerous benefits. Here are some of the major ones.
Fast and reliable
The regular flights for Lukla take off only in the mornings as the weather in Lukla gets lousy in the afternoon and evenings. If the weather isn't clear in the morning, you might have to wait for hours to catch the flight, or in some cases, the flight gets rescheduled for the next day. These events hamper your itinerary. However, the helicopter flies even in somewhat poor weather, so it's considered a faster and more reliable means of transport to Lukla.
Avoid the long drive to Ramechhap (during peak seasons)
During peak seasons, i.e., spring and autumn, the flights to Lukla take off from Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu. The Ramechhap airport in Manthali is 125 km away from Kathmandu and takes a 4-5 hour drive to reach. Hence, you can avoid the long drive on a hilly road by taking a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu.
Up Close aerial sight of the Everest region
As discussed above, the close-up bird-eye view of the Himalayas is one of the main features of the Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu helicopter flight. The Heli ride is a perfect opportunity to witness the spectacular Himalayan panorama, alpine greenery, lush green forests, rivers and waterfalls, little Himalayan settlements, and other such beauties.
Medical emergencies
There's always a certain risk factor when traveling or trekking in the high Himalayas, where weather and temperature fluctuate drastically. Even minor injuries can be a severe problem in the mountains, where medical services are unavailable. In severe medical conditions, waiting for the flight can risk the patient's life. In such cases, you can instantly book the Lukla – Kathmandu helicopter flight on your return.
Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu Helicopter Flight Cost
The helicopter service is available for group joining and charter flights.
Group Joining
Joining a group is a cost-effective choice for solo travelers or small groups of 2 to 3 persons. A total of 5 people can fit inside the chopper at once.
One-way Group Joining Price - $ 650
Private/Charter Flights
Another choice is to reserve a charter flight. A private helicopter is beneficial for groups of 4 or 5 people traveling together.
One-way Private/Charter Flight Price - $ 3000
How long is the helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and back?
The helicopter takes about 45 minutes to reach Lukla from Kathmandu, and it's the same duration back.
How far is Lukla from Kathmandu?
The aerial distance between Kathmandu and Lukla is 138 km.
What is the helicopter landing site in Lukla and Kathmandu?
The helicopter lands at Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla and Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
Is the helicopter equipped with oxygen cylinders?
Yes, the helicopter is well prepared for medical emergencies with oxygen cylinders fitted on board.
Is the helicopter flight to Lukla safe?
Our skilled pilots and crew have years of experience flying in the Nepalese Himalayas. The helicopter ride is entirely secure.
What happens if the helicopter flight gets delayed or canceled?
In the exceptional event of severe weather, the helicopter flight is postponed for the next clear day. If the revised time does not fit your itinerary, we are pleased to reimburse your booking amount in accordance with our refund policy.
