Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek

  • Private
  • Family
Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trip
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Mount Fishtail from ABC side
Duration10 Days
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude4,130 meters
ActivitiesTrekking & Helicopter Ride
Group Size2-16
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Best TimeMarch - May & September - November

Trip Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek - 10 Days is designed in such a way that it covers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Nepal. The trek is designed for all lovers of adventure who wish to pass this adventure with a touch of comfort. This trekking journey provides the perfect balance of challenge and reward, taking you to the heart of the Himalayas, where every step gives way to breathtaking landscapes and cultural encounters that will enrich your experience.

Fly to Kathmandu, a city bewitched with ancient temples and crowded streets, and on to Pokhara, a lovely lakeside town and the start point for Annapurna treks. Inspiration to begin the treks is not usually a problem here; from lush forests and vegetated hills to high-altitude valleys, there will never be a moment of no inspiration. Overnight camp at 4,130 meters, with high peaks and breathtaking scenery ringing you.

The highlight of this trek is a helicopter ride back from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara—absolutely sensational.—the perfect way to relive the landscapes through which you have walked. This trek is designed for trekkers who want to experience the majesty of the Annapurna range without the time-consuming return hike. Led by expert guides, stays at well-planned accommodations, and basically ensures safety and comfort, the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek provides a complete holiday for totally immersing oneself in natural beauty and culture.

Highlights of the trip

  • Experience the unique cultural heritage of Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Trek to stunning landscapes, both in the deep forest and the alpine meadows.
  • Witness the majesty of Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 meters above sea level in the Himalayas.
  • Enjoy the stunning helicopter ride back to Pokhara after having reached base camp.
  • Get soaked in unbeatable views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks.
  • Soak up the charm waiting for you in the lowly-lying tea houses along the route of the trekking.
  • Perfect for adventurers looking to pair some rugged trekking with a little luxury.

Why Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek?

A trip tailor-made for those who want to experience the grandeur of the Annapurna region without the long return trek, this tour, on the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek - 10 Days will take you to the base camp and not only to witness the raw beauty of the mountains up close but also whisk you back to Pokhara by helicopter for time and energy spent on further exploration. Ideal for trekkers bound by a time constraint or looking for a softer finish to an adventure.

Itinerary

The 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek assures an ultimate combo of adventure and comfort. Every day is planned in a way that you acclimate your body in the best way possible, yet, it allows you to embrace the diversity that the beautiful Annapurna region boasts.

It particularly envelops cultural exploration within Kathmandu and Pokhara, trekking through various landscapes to finally reach the crowning destination of Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. A helicopter return is a great experience that comes with a-stunning views of the Himalayas from the sky.

Flexibility is the answer, and our expert guides are always there to set the rhythm and itinerary according to your needs for a safe and memorable journey.

Trip PlanExpand All

Welcome to Kathmandu, a city where ancient and modern life cross each other in chaos and culture. As your plane descends into the valley, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Himalayas—just a taste of the awe-inspiring adventure that lies ahead. You will be transferred to your centrally located hotel after passing through the customs. You will have the chance to relax, freshen up, and get over the long flight and jet lag.

Though it sits at 1,400 meters elevation, Kathmandu is much more than a stopover—it's a complete experience. Whether you are prone to the powerful pull of its maze-like streets, where flags flutter in the breeze and the smell of incense is constant, or you really just want to have a cup of tea and take it all in, today is all about soaking up that atmosphere. The adventure of a lifetime lies ahead.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Accommodation: Hotel

Today's all about getting into the heart of Kathmandu. This is a city-museum, and your guided tour today takes you through some of its most iconic sites. Start at Swayambhunath, or more popularly, the Monkey Temple. Mischievous monkeys move about, with views of the valley from atop the stupa. Later, explore Pashupatinath, the holy Hindu temple complex, and witness ancient rituals alongside the holy Bagmati River.

Next, visit the enormous dome of Boudhanath Stupa, where Tibetan Buddhism resonates and pilgrims walk endlessly, spinning prayer wheels. Then, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, with its centuries-old palaces and temples that tell stories of kings and gods. It is a day that is certain to put you in touch with the spiritual heartbeat of Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Pack your bags; you're off to Pokhara, a beautiful getaway that almost holds the charm of being a world apart from Kathmandu. At an altitude of 822 meters, Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and aptly falls under one place where tranquility meets adventure. The drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara has a noteworthy view of terraced fields and hills clothed with green trees that offer glimpses of rural life along the way; it's around a 6-7-hour drive.

In the city, at your arrival, there will be a warm welcome awaiting you with its tranquil feel. Have the evening on the brink of serene Phewa Lake and watch the dance of the reflected Annapurna range on the water surface. Pokhara is a place for the adventurous and the laid-back, but tonight, you can choose to be one, another, or both.

Max Altitude: 822 m / 2,697 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

The real adventure starts today. An early breakfast before driving to the village of Jhinu Danda, a charming village at an elevation of 1,780 meters, dominated by the presence of natural hot springs, much valued out here. Soak your feet, kick back, and begin to feel the mountain vibes really starting to soak in. From Jhinu, the trek really starts to take off.

You walk up trails through green forests and pass the suspension bridges over the Modi Khola's flow. The air is cool and fresh, growing even cooler as you ascend. Lower Sinuwa is about 2,340 meters in elevation and around three hours of walking from Chhomorong. Views now open more seriously, affording previous glimpses of snow-clad massifs that dazzle your mind. And here, tonight, you rest under a starlit canopy, ready for more tomorrow.

Max Altitude: 2,340 m / 7,767 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Today, the walk will be even deeper into the Annapurna region, where gradually the scenery changes into wilder and more remote country. Then, leaving Lower Sinuwa, the path winds through dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo. There will be the sounds of chirping birds, rustling leaves, and rushing waterfalls in the distance, which have blended together to create a perfect soundtrack to Nature.

This is the altitude, 2900 m, from which the air begins to get really thin. But, of course, the landscape makes up for it; you will trek past small villages and cross rivers, with the route ascending to the appropriately named village of Himalaya. Placed like a jewel in a dramatic vale flanked by towering peaks, this is where you'll rest for the night with the majesties of the mountains close at hand.

Max Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Get ready for one of the most exciting days of your trek. You will reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) at 3,700 meters today. Now, the trails get steeper and the landscapes more rugged and rocky. Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail Mountain, dominates the skyline, its unique shape always seemingly within sight as you climb.

As you approach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the air feels thinner, and the peaks closer. The base camp is surrounded by a circle of snow-covered giants, and the atmosphere is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Spend the evening here, enveloped by the mountains and the crisp, cold air, as you prepare for tomorrow’s big push.

Max Altitude: 3,700 m / 12,139 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Today, you’ll achieve what you set out for—Annapurna Base Camp, standing proud at 4,130 meters. The trek from MBC to ABC is a relatively short but steep climb through glacial moraines. As you approach, the grandeur of the Annapurna massif unfolds before you, a breathtaking amphitheater of peaks, with Annapurna I towering at 8,091 meters.

Reaching ABC, it is a moment of victory. You now occupy the center of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by a couple of the highest peaks in the world. You can chill out as much as you want today, take pictures, and live in that moment. Tonight, you are going to spend the night at ABC—literally under the stars.

Max Altitude: 4,130 m / 13,550 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Again, daylight slowly makes its way to Base Camp with the first sunbeams touching the top of Annapurna. You are free this morning, you can spend time around Base Camp, observing the beauty of the view and the tranquility of the atmosphere. Your adventure does not stop here; ride via helicopter on your way back to Pokhara for a thrilling experience.

The flight itself is something of a scenic award, as it gives you a bird's-eye view of the landscapes that you have trekked through. You will land in Pokhara, after which you have a day for sightseeing. Visit the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, pay homage at the Bindhyabasini Temple, marvel at the towering Pumdikot Shiva Statue, and seek peace at the World Peace Stupa. Finally, end the day with a visit to Davis Falls, where the water just disappears into an underground tunnel.

Max Altitude: 822 m / 2,697 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Today, you will drive back to Kathmandu after bidding farewell to Pokhara. You will have all the scenic countryside of Nepal in front of you, with its terraced farming, rivers, and villages that often stick in a bygone era. In Kathmandu, you will have your evening at leisure to relax, do some last-minute shopping, or maybe get back to one of those areas that particularly resonated with you during your first few days in Nepal.

It's a reflective day, looking back on the big journey just completed, mountains conquered, and memories made. Enjoy that special energy of the city one final time as your adventure winds down.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Take a minute and just look back upon the incredible landscapes, the cultural richness, and experiences that cannot be forgotten in this trip of a lifetime. You leave Nepal, and with you, the vibe of the Himalayas will be retained—a feeling of awe, adventure, peace that shall inhabit you long after you go back home. Safe journeys, until we meet again!

Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival and Departure
  • Kathamandu Valley Sightseeing
  • Pokhara Valley Sightseeing
  • Three nights in a tourist category (Alike: Hotel Simal) in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
  • All transportation for the trip
  • Helicopter ride from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Government-authorized, experienced guide and porters.
  • Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters.
  • Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Sleeping bag, duffle bag, hiking stick (must be returned after trek).
  • First Aid Kit.
  • Service charge and government taxes.
Excluded
  • International airfare
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (besides breakfast)
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
  • Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, desert, tea and coffee.
  • Wi-Fi and internet service during trekking (charged in some hotels).
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)

 

Route Map
ABC Heli Return Trek Route Map
Altitude Chart
ABC Heli Return Trek Altitude Chart
Dates & Availability
Departure Date
Status
Price
Departure Date
Starts: October 12, 2024Ends: October 21, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$1150
Departure Date
Starts: October 14, 2024Ends: October 23, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$1150
Departure Date
Starts: October 21, 2024Ends: October 30, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$1150
Departure Date
Starts: October 25, 2024Ends: November 03, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$1150
Departure Date
Starts: October 31, 2024Ends: November 09, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$1150
Essential Information

What's Special About This Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek is an intrinsically varied trek that combines glorious natural beauty, cultural encounters, and adventure. From arrival in Kathmandu, one is wrapped in a tapestry of experiences: ancient temples to visit, deep forests of oak and rhododendron, streams and rivers to cross, and climbs to the heights of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Every day unfolds different vistas, from terraced fields of Pokhara through snow-capped peaks of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.

The best pronunciation of this hike involves hanging around at Annapurna Base Camp, which lies at an altitude of 4,130 meters and is encircled by the unparalleled natural theater of a few of the world's highest peaks. Reaching this point is quite fulfilling, but this journey doesn't end here. The return helicopter ride to Pokhara will simply leave you breathless and give a view from the air of the trails trekked, along with the majestic mountains accompanying one's way forward.

Is this trek beginner friendly?

Yes, the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek is suitable for beginners of good fitness level. It entails a few days of hiking, but the height is increased gradually to allow acclimatization. Although the altitude reached in the trek is pretty high, the itinerary has been structured to minimize risks of altitude sicknesses. These experienced guides take utmost care for safety and comfort throughout the journey.

What can I expect about accommodations and meals?

During the trek, you will stay in comfortable tea houses with a warm bed and hot meals for the duration. Equally famous for hospitality, these tea houses along the routes come with modest but clean accommodations to rest in after a day of hiking. Meals generally offer you a choice of Nepali and western dishes to give your body good fuel for the next days' hike. You will stay in greater comfort at quality hotels—two locations: Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Why Book with Us?

If you choose our team for your Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek - 10 Days, you are not just booking a trip; you are assigning the task to professionals who have been trekking in the Himalayas for years. Not only do our guides have intimate knowledge of the trails, but they are also located in places with expert knowledge concerning the surrounding area and its culture. Your complete safety and well-being are important to us; thus, we handle every part of your trip with utmost care.

From the time of arrival in Kathmandu to your final departure, our team of experts remains committed to making your overall experience truly memorable. We realize and accept the importance of flexibility and are always ready to tailor the trek according to your need, whether it be with respect to pace or dietary requirement. We hold the expertise and know-how, and visitors can, therefore, embark on the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek with confidence, at ease with the fact that they are in good hands.

Is Helicopter Return Worth It?

Absolutely. The return by helicopter is not solely a question of convenience—he quite literally gives the most scintillating and ocularly striking close to your adventure. You will soar over the trails you've trekked, and it gives a new perspective on all the landscapes you have explored in these many days of trekking. It is one of those moments that encapsulates the grandeur of the Himalayas, leaving behind a lasting memory.