Experience a breathtaking Himalayan adventure with Asiana Treks and Tours on the Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour, a luxurious 2-hour journey to the heart of the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Departing from Pokhara, this scenic helicopter flight soars above lush forests, traditional Gurung villages, glaciers, and towering snow-capped peaks before landing at base camp for unforgettable panoramic views and breakfast amidst the Himalayas. Perfect for all ages and requiring no trekking, this once-in-a-lifetime experience offers comfort, safety, and spectacular mountain scenery in a short yet extraordinary adventure.
The Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Heli Tour by Asiana Treks and Tours is an extraordinary adventure designed for travellers who wish to witness the majestic Himalayan landscape without the strenuous trek. This tour provides a perfect blend of excitement, comfort, and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal choice for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone short on time but eager to experience the grandeur of the Annapurna range.
Starting early in the morning, the tour departs from Pokhara’s airport and takes you on an awe-inspiring helicopter ride to Annapurna Base Camp at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,546 feet). The flight duration is approximately one and a half hours, which includes about 20-30 minutes of exploration time at the base camp itself. This helicopter journey offers a unique vantage point, allowing you to appreciate the dramatic contrast among lush green forests, traditional Gurung villages, and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks—all from the sky.
Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour
This heli tour encapsulates some of the best features of the Annapurna region, all within a short time frame:
Spectacular Aerial Views: Enjoy sweeping panoramas of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail Peak), and Dhaulagiri.
Cultural Glimpses: Fly over charming Gurung villages such as Ghandruk, Landruk, and Chhomrong, offering insight into the rich local culture.
Nature’s Diversity: Witness dense oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered landscapes from above.
Time Efficiency: The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it ideal for travellers with limited time who want to avoid the 10-12-day trek.
Safe and Comfortable: Modern helicopters operated by professional pilots provide a smooth, secure flight experience.
Unlike traditional trekking routes, the helicopter tour offers a luxurious, time-saving alternative for reaching Annapurna Base Camp. While trekking requires physical endurance and days of hiking, this helicopter ride lets you instantly immerse yourself in the heart of the Himalayas. Upon landing, you can step out and breathe the crisp mountain air while taking in the panoramic views of snow-clad peaks and the serene mountain valley.
Spending 20-30 minutes at the base camp is just enough to snap stunning photographs, appreciate the surrounding natural beauty, and enjoy the peaceful ambience before the return flight. The tour is also an excellent option for travellers concerned about altitude sickness, as the time spent at high altitude is minimal.
Scenic Views and Key Attractions
During the flight, the helicopter passes over a remarkable array of landscapes and cultural sites:
Pokhara Valley: Begin your journey flying above the lush Pokhara Valley, dotted with lakes and greenery.
Gurung Villages: Fly over traditional Gurung settlements such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong, known for their vibrant culture and architecture.
Flora and Fauna: The route passes through dense oak and rhododendron forests, the national flower of Nepal, especially striking in spring.
Himalayan Peaks: The view of the towering peaks such as Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri is simply breathtaking, offering postcard-worthy vistas at every turn.
The Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the 20-30 minute stop at ABC for exploration and photo opportunities. The tour starts early, around 6:15 AM, from your hotel, with a transfer to Pokhara Airport, to maximise clear weather and visibility.
Best time to visit: The ideal seasons for this heli tour are September to November and March to May, when skies are generally clear, and mountain views are spectacular. The winter months (December to February) can also be enjoyable but colder, with reduced visibility due to fog.
Asiana Treks and Tours is a reputed and trusted operator specialising in Himalayan adventure tours and heli-tours. With professional pilots, well-maintained helicopters, and excellent customer service, Asiana ensures a safe, memorable, and seamless experience for every traveller. Their expertise in the Annapurna region guarantees the best possible itinerary, maximising your enjoyment of Nepal’s spectacular natural beauty.
When planning your Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour with Asiana Treks and Tours, it’s essential to keep a few key points in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The helicopter tour, while convenient and exhilarating, is subject to various factors such as weather conditions, altitude effects, and operational constraints. Travellers must arrive well-prepared and informed before embarking on this adventure.
Helicopter flights in mountainous regions are highly weather-dependent. Sudden weather changes may result in delays or cancellations to ensure passenger safety. Therefore, flexibility in your travel schedule is advised. Also, because the altitude at Annapurna Base Camp exceeds 4,100 meters, travellers should be aware of the risks of altitude sickness and limit their time at high elevations. Make sure to follow the guidance provided by the tour operators and pilots.
Key points to remember:
Health and Fitness Requirements
Although the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour requires less physical exertion than trekking, some basic health and fitness prerequisites must be met. Passengers should generally be in good health and able to cope with sudden altitude changes and helicopter noise or vibration. Individuals with serious heart or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before participating.
The flight quickly ascends to over 4,100 meters (13,546 feet), which can trigger altitude sickness in sensitive individuals. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath. To minimise risks, passengers should stay hydrated and avoid alcohol or heavy meals before the flight. Pregnant women and children under a certain age or weight may have restrictions due to safety protocols.
Health and fitness requirements:
General good health is necessary.
Consult a physician if you have heart, lung, or other chronic conditions.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before the flight.
Pregnant women and very young children may be restricted.
Stay hydrated and rest adequately before the tour.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
The weather in the Annapurna region can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous terrain. Clear skies are essential for safe and scenic helicopter flights, so the best time to book your heli tour is during Nepal’s peak trekking seasons: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the skies are typically clear, visibility is excellent, and the temperature is moderate.
Winter (December to February) sees colder temperatures and possible snowfall, which may reduce flight availability or cause delays due to fog or icy conditions. The monsoon season (June to August) is generally unsuitable for helicopter flights as heavy rains and strong winds increase safety risks. Always check weather forecasts in advance and maintain communication with your tour operator for timely updates.
Seasonal summary:
Best: March to May, September to November (clear skies, pleasant temperatures)
Moderate: December to February (cold, possible delays)
Not recommended: June to August (monsoon rains, unstable weather)
Weather can change rapidly; flexibility is important.
Safety Measures and Emergency Protocols
Safety is paramount for the Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour operated by Asiana Treks and Tours. The company follows strict safety protocols to protect passengers during the flight and on the ground. Helicopters used are regularly maintained and operated by certified pilots with extensive experience in mountain flying.
Before the flight, passengers receive a safety briefing that covers boarding procedures, seatbelt use, emergency exits, and behavior during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. The pilots continuously monitor weather and air traffic conditions to ensure a safe journey. In case of emergency, the helicopter is equipped with communication devices, and crew members are trained in first aid.
Safety highlights:
Pre-flight safety briefing for all passengers.
Certified and experienced pilots with mountain flying expertise.
Well-maintained helicopters with regular inspections.
Emergency communication and first aid equipment onboard.
Strict adherence to weather and operational safety guidelines.
Baggage and Weight Restrictions for Helicopters
Helicopters have limited cabin space and strict weight restrictions to ensure safety and performance. For the Annapurna Base Camp heli tour, passengers are usually allowed to bring only a small carry-on bag weighing no more than 5-7 kilograms (11-15 lbs). Oversized or heavy luggage is not permitted. This limitation ensures the helicopter remains within safe operational weight limits.
Asiana Treks and Tours advises travelers to pack light and bring only essentials such as warm clothing, a camera, and personal items. Bulky backpacks or large suitcases should be left behind or stored safely in Pokhara. Before the flight, baggage and passenger weight are carefully checked to maintain balance and stability during the helicopter journey.
Baggage rules summary:
Carry-on bag limit: approximately 5-7 kg (11-15 lbs)
No large or heavy luggage allowed onboard.
Pack warm clothing and essentials only.
Weight checks conducted before flight.
Leftover baggage can be stored safely in Pokhara.
Permits and Documentation Required
To undertake the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour, certain permits and documentation are necessary to comply with Nepalese aviation and tourism regulations. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures all legal requirements are met on behalf of their clients, but passengers must carry valid identification documents.
Typically, a valid passport or national ID card is required for check-in at the airport. Additionally, Nepal’s government mandates that tourists visiting the Annapurna region hold a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Although trekking is not involved in the heli tour, these permits are sometimes required as the flight enters the restricted conservation zone.
Documentation checklist:
Valid passport or national ID.
TIMS card (may be arranged by the tour company).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Tour operator will assist with permit processing.
Carry printed copies of all permits and identification.
Cancellation and Refund Policies
Cancellation and refund policies are important considerations when booking the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour with Asiana Treks and Tours. Given the variable nature of mountain weather, flights can occasionally be canceled or rescheduled at short notice to ensure passenger safety. In such cases, the company offers flexible cancellation and rescheduling options.
If cancellations are made by the passenger, refunds depend on how far in advance the cancellation occurs. Typically, full or partial refunds are issued for cancellations made well before the tour date, while last-minute cancellations may incur charges. It’s advisable to purchase travel insurance that covers cancellations due to weather or other unforeseen events.
Policy highlights:
Weather-related cancellations: full refund or rescheduling.
Passenger cancellations: refund amount depends on notice period.
Last-minute cancellations may be non-refundable or partially refundable.
Travel insurance recommended for peace of mind.
Contact Asiana Treks and Tours promptly for any changes.
Experience a spectacular Himalayan adventure with Asiana Treks and Tours on the Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour. This exclusive 2-hour journey begins with an early morning transfer from your hotel in Pokhara to the airport, followed by a scenic helicopter flight toward Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Soar above lush forests, winding rivers, traditional Gurung villages, glaciers, and towering Himalayan peaks, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna region.
Upon landing at Annapurna Base Camp, you will have 20–30 minutes to explore, capture stunning photographs, and enjoy breakfast surrounded by panoramic mountain scenery. With a maximum altitude of 4,130 m (13,550 ft), this tour offers a comfortable, non-trekking Himalayan experience suitable for all age groups. After soaking in the alpine beauty, enjoy a scenic return flight to Pokhara, completing a once-in-a-lifetime mountain adventure in style.
This Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Helicopter Tour from Pokhara is a perfect short adventure for travellers who want to experience the heart of the Annapurna Himalayas in just 2 hours. The tour offers breathtaking aerial views of snow-capped peaks, alpine landscapes, glaciers, and traditional Gurung villages, followed by a short landing at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m / 13,550 ft). Ideal for all age groups, this itinerary requires no trekking and delivers a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience in comfort and style.
Hour by hour for Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour – Activity Table:
Flight Time will be changed due to the weather conditions
| Time | Activities | Details |
| 06:15 AM | Hotel Pickup | Transfer from the hotel to Pokhara Airport |
| 06:20 AM | Helicopter Take-off | Scenic flight toward Annapurna Base Camp |
| 06:20–06:50 AM | Aerial Sightseeing | Views of Gurung villages, forests, glaciers, and peaks |
| 06:50–07:20 AM | ABC Landing | 20–30 minutes at 4,130 m / 13,546 ft |
| 07:20–08:00 AM | Return Flight | Fly back to Pokhara via the scenic view of Old Peace stupa, Lake view, as well as rolling Hills |
| 08:00 AM | Hotel Drop-off | End of the tour |
Meals Breakfast In Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
Max. altitude 4,130m / 13,550ft. The Pokhara–Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour by Asiana Treks and Tours is a premium 2-hour Himalayan experience starting from Pokhara with a scenic helicopter flight and short landing at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m / 13,550 ft). This tour includes hotel-airport-hotel transfers, a professional pilot, and breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna range, glaciers, Gurung villages, and alpine landscapes. Breakfast is served at Annapurna Base Camp (weather permitting). Flights operate early morning for the best visibility, but departure times may change due to mountain weather conditions.
Your Start Date is the day you land in Nepal, and your End Date is when you fly home.
If the set Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Helitours group dates don’t suit your schedule, we can offer alternative dates upon request.
The Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour is a luxury aerial experience offered by Asiana Treks and Tours. It takes you on a scenic helicopter ride from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters), one of the most iconic trekking destinations in Nepal. The entire trip lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including 20–30 minutes of ground time at the base camp. This tour is perfect for those with limited time or physical constraints but who still want to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas.
The tour begins early in the morning. Asiana Treks and Tours will pick you up from your hotel in Pokhara at 6:15 AM and transfer you to the airport. The helicopter departs around 6:20 AM, reaching Annapurna Base Camp in about 20–25 minutes. You’ll return to Pokhara by approximately 8:00 AM. The entire experience, including pick-up, flight, and drop-off, takes around 1.5 hours, making it one of the most time-efficient ways to experience the Himalayas.
During your flight, you will witness stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and other majestic Himalayan peaks. The helicopter flies over lush oak forests, terraced fields, cascading rivers, and traditional Gurung villages. You’ll also see deep gorges, snowfields, and rugged alpine terrain as you ascend toward the base camp. The breathtaking landscapes make this flight one of the most photogenic experiences in Nepal.
The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages who are in reasonable health. It’s ideal for those who want to experience Annapurna Base Camp without the physical demands of trekking. Families, senior citizens, honeymooners, photographers, and luxury travelers often choose this helicopter tour. However, if you have pre-existing medical conditions or issues with high altitude, it’s recommended to consult your doctor before booking.
Absolutely! Photography and videography are encouraged. The helicopter has large windows, allowing you to capture unobstructed aerial shots of the Annapurna region. You can take photos during the flight and at Annapurna Base Camp. Many guests consider this tour a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and take full advantage of the scenic surroundings to create memorable content.
Altitude sickness is generally not a major concern for this short tour because the time spent at 4,130 meters is limited to 20–30 minutes. However, due to the high altitude, some people may feel slight dizziness or shortness of breath. The short stay ensures minimal risk, and the helicopter is ready to descend immediately if any guest feels uncomfortable. It's still wise to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before the flight.
There is no strict age limit, but children under 2 years old must sit on an adult's lap. Elderly travelers are welcome, provided they are in good health. Asiana Treks and Tours recommends that anyone with heart conditions or other serious medical issues consult their physician before booking. Pregnant women should also seek medical advice prior to the tour.
Yes, many travelers choose to combine the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour with other activities such as paragliding, boating on Phewa Lake, or cultural sightseeing in Pokhara. Asiana Treks and Tours can create a custom itinerary for you to make the most of your time in Nepal. Just let the team know your interests and schedule.
Asiana Treks and Tours is a trusted name in Nepal’s adventure travel industry. Known for excellent customer service, experienced guides, and attention to detail, the company ensures every aspect of your heli tour is smooth and memorable. Their partnerships with top-rated helicopter operators, commitment to safety, and passion for showcasing Nepal’s beauty make them a top choice for this unforgettable experience.
Once the helicopter lands at Annapurna Base Camp, you will have approximately 20 to 30 minutes to explore the area. This time allows you to soak in the views, take photographs, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The stay is intentionally short due to the high altitude (4,130 meters) to minimize the risk of altitude sickness, as guests are not acclimatized for extended exposure at that elevation.
Yes, Asiana Treks and Tours prioritizes safety above all. The helicopters are operated by experienced pilots certified in mountain flying and equipped with the latest GPS and safety technologies. The aircrafts are well-maintained and undergo regular inspections. The company follows all aviation guidelines set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. In case of bad weather or unsafe flying conditions, the flight will be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.
Dress warmly in layered clothing, as temperatures at Annapurna Base Camp can be significantly colder than in Pokhara, especially in the early morning. It’s advisable to wear a thermal base layer, fleece or down jacket, gloves, a hat, and sunglasses. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots to comfortably walk on snow or rocky terrain during your short time at the base camp. Also, bring sunscreen and a scarf to protect from strong UV rays and wind.
Typically, the helicopter can accommodate 4 to 5 passengers, depending on weight distribution. The total weight capacity, including passengers and baggage, is around 450–500 kg. Asiana Treks and Tours carefully arranges seating for optimal balance and viewing experience. Private and group charters are both available, and if your group is larger, the company can arrange multiple flights.
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. If the weather conditions are unsuitable for flying—due to poor visibility, high winds, or storms—Asiana Treks and Tours will reschedule your tour to the next available day. If rescheduling is not possible due to your travel plans, you will receive a full refund. The company closely monitors weather updates to ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience.
Yes, complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off within Pokhara city are included in the tour package. Asiana Treks and Tours will collect you from your accommodation at around 6:15 AM and return you after the tour concludes around 8:00 AM. This door-to-door service adds convenience and comfort to your early-morning experience.
The cost of the Pokhara Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour varies depending on group size and season. The price typically includes round-trip helicopter flight, airport transfers, permits, fuel surcharges, and taxes. Some packages may include breakfast or additional photography time. Contact Asiana Treks and Tours for the most accurate pricing and inclusions based on your preferred dates.
Yes, all visitors to Annapurna Base Camp require conservation permits. However, Asiana Treks and Tours arranges all necessary permits on your behalf, which are included in the tour price. You don’t need to worry about paperwork or additional logistics. Just bring a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo when you book.
Yes, Asiana Treks and Tours offers both group-sharing and private charter options. A private helicopter tour is ideal for couples, families, or those seeking a more personalized and quiet experience. It also allows more flexibility in terms of departure time and photography preferences. The company can customize the experience to suit your needs.
Booking is easy through the Asiana Treks and Tours website, by email, or in person at their office in Pokhara. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn), to secure your preferred date. A deposit may be required at the time of booking, with the balance payable before the flight.
If you need to cancel your heli tour, Asiana Treks and Tours has a flexible cancellation policy. Generally, cancellations made 48 hours or more before departure are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made within 48 hours may incur a fee. Weather-related cancellations are fully refundable or rescheduled based on your preference.