Trekking to Everest Base Camp is the classic way to get up-close-and-personal with the world’s tallest peak. But there’s another way to go that’s quicker, cheaper, and less exhausting: hop aboard a plane or helicopter. Here’s how to do it, and what to expect.
Mount Everest, the world’s most towering and majestic mountain, reigns supreme as Nepal’s most iconic and sought-after attraction. However, reaching this colossal peak isn’t as straightforward as one might assume, a reality some travelers discover through experience. Unlike some other famous mountains, there isn’t a convenient paved road that will take you directly to its base, at least not on the Nepal side. While a road does exist on the Tibet side of the mountain, the journey to the Everest region within Nepal requires a bit more commitment. To approach it by land, the most common route involves trekking for several days, starting from the town of Lukla. Getting to Lukla itself typically involves a flight from Kathmandu, adding another layer to the overall journey.
But don’t despair if the idea of a multi-day trek seems daunting! There’s a fantastic alternative available for travelers who are eager to witness the grandeur of Everest but may not be able to, or simply prefer not to, undertake the rigorous trek. This alternative offers a chance to get up close and personal with the mountain in a much more accessible and comfortable way.
Consider embarking on a scenic flight, a truly unforgettable experience that allows you to marvel at the breathtaking views from the luxurious comfort of either a plane or a helicopter. These aerial trips are generally more budget-friendly and significantly quicker than the traditional hiking option. Moreover, they demand considerably less physical exertion compared to the challenging trek to Everest Base Camp. You can soak in the panoramic vistas of the Himalayas without having to worry about strenuous climbs and long days on your feet.
## By Plane
The airplane tour is the more economically accessible and popular way to experience Everest from above. These flights typically utilize smaller aircraft, accommodating between 15 and 20 passengers. The flights take off early in the morning, usually around 6:30 AM, to take advantage of the clearest possible views. The entire journey lasts for approximately one hour, ensuring a swift and captivating experience. To maximize the viewing experience for everyone on board, each passenger is guaranteed a window seat. This ensures that everyone gets an unobstructed, optimal view of the mountain range, whether it’s on the outbound or return leg of the flight.
Some aviation companies go the extra mile to enhance the celebratory atmosphere of the excursion. They may offer complimentary sparkling wine to passengers during the flight, adding a touch of luxury to the already spectacular experience. Furthermore, at the conclusion of the flight, many companies present passengers with souvenir certificates as a memorable keepsake of their adventure. As an added bonus, some flights even provide the opportunity to visit the cockpit, where you can meet and greet the pilots and savor the unparalleled views from the front of the plane.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that mountain flights are subject to cancellation due to unfavorable weather conditions. Therefore, be prepared for the possibility that you might wake up early, travel to the airport, only to discover that your flight needs to be rescheduled or a refund needs to be requested. Also, it’s worth noting that airplane flights, while offering incredible views, don’t actually fly that close to Everest itself. This is partly due to safety protocols and the need to maintain a safe distance from the mountain. Nevertheless, on a clear day, you’ll have a distinct view of Everest in the mid-distance as you approach the magnificent mountainous region from the southwest.
## By Helicopter
Helicopter flights offer an even more exclusive and intimate encounter with the Everest region. These flights typically accommodate four to five passengers, providing a more personal and less crowded experience. The helicopter tour usually takes up the entire morning, allowing ample time to explore the stunning landscape. A significant highlight of the helicopter trip is a stop near Everest, specifically at Kala Patthar, which stands at an impressive 18,192 feet. This location offers an unparalleled opportunity for capturing once-in-a-lifetime photographs with the majestic Everest as your backdrop.
However, the stop at Kala Patthar is intentionally brief due to the rapid increase in altitude from Kathmandu, which sits at 4,593 feet. Spending too much time at such a high altitude without proper acclimatization could pose health risks. As part of the helicopter tour, a breakfast stop is commonly included at Syangboche, situated at 12,303 feet. Additionally, a refueling stop is typically made at Lukla to ensure a safe and efficient journey.
Many travelers find that a helicopter flight offers a significantly more spectacular and rewarding experience than an airplane flight. The ability to land near Everest and enjoy panoramic views from Kala Patthar elevates the adventure to a whole new level. Of course, the heightened experience comes with a corresponding price tag. The cost of helicopter flights varies depending on the number of passengers on board. Generally speaking, chartering an entire helicopter can cost around US$5,000. If you split that cost among five people, you’re looking at approximately $1000 per person. It’s important to note that you cannot purchase tickets directly through the airlines that operate the helicopters. Instead, you’ll need to book your flight through a reputable travel agency, as helicopters are typically chartered on a private basis.
## Plane vs Helicopter
| | **Plane** | **Helicopter** |
|———————-|—————–|——————-|
| **Price** | $140-200 USD | Approx. $1000 USD |
| **Duration** | 1 hour | Half day |
| **What’s included** | Cockpit visit, glass of champagne, certificate | Breakfast stop, short photo stop at Kala Patthar, refueling stop at Lukla |
*Keep in mind: Flight prices often change without prior notice according to the current cost of fuel in Nepal.*
## Full List of Peaks You’ll See
During your flight, keep an eye out for these magnificent peaks that adorn the Himalayan skyline:
* Everest (8848 m)
* Lhotse ( 8516 m)
* Makalu (8463 m)
* Cho-Oyo (8201 m)
* Shisha Pangma (8013 m)
* Nuptse (7855 m)
* Gyachung Kang (7652 m)
* Chamlang (7319 m)
* Langtang Lirung (7234 m)
* Melungtse (7181 m)
* Pumori (7161 m)
* Gauri Shankar (7134 m)
* Dorje – Lakpa (6966 m)
* Numbur (6957 m)
* Ama Dablam (6812 m)
* Phurbi – Ghyachu (6637 m)
* Pigferago (6620 m)
* Karyolung (6511 m)
* Chugimago (6297 m)
* Choba -Bhamre (5970 m)
The revised content has a word count of 848.
B-1760