Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour — 1 Day
Duration
1 day
From
$900/person
Max Altitude
4,130 m
Difficulty
Easy
Starts
Pokhara
Group Size
1–6 People
Stay
Helicopter (no overnight)
Meals
Breakfast included
Best Season
Year-round (best Oct–May)
Trip Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary(1 days)
The Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour is a half-day flight from Pokhara to the Annapurna Sanctuary — landing at ABC (4,130 m) within 30 minutes of departure, spending 30 minutes on the snow at the foot of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli, and returning to Pokhara in time for lunch. It is the most time-efficient way to experience one of the Himalaya's most spectacular high-altitude environments, and for travellers whose schedule, fitness, or health does not permit a 9-day trek, it is the only alternative that delivers the genuine ABC experience.
The private helicopter (B3 or AS350, maximum 5 passengers) departs at sunrise for optimal mountain visibility and minimal afternoon cloud risk. Landing at ABC provides 30 minutes on the ground: photographs, the Sanctuary atmosphere, and the physical reality of 4,130 m altitude — a tangible difference from Pokhara's 800 m. Hotel-to-hotel transfers in Pokhara are included.
Best seasons: October–November and March–May. Departure: Sunrise from Pokhara. Group size: Private charter (max 5).
What's Included
Included
- Helicopter charter Pokhara–Annapurna Base Camp–Pokhara (private group, B3 or AS350)
- NMA-licensed pilot and pre-flight safety briefing
- 30-minute on-ground time at ABC (4,130 m) for photos
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Pokhara (private vehicle)
- Continental breakfast before departure
- All ACAP landing fees, aviation taxes, and government charges
Not Included
- Mandatory helicopter rescue insurance ($4–$6 per day, payable locally)
- Meals and refreshments at landing sites
- Personal expenses
- Tips for pilot and crew
Best Time to Go
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Peak season — crystal visibility over Annapurna massif. October mornings almost always perfect.
Spring (Mar–May)
Excellent. Rhododendron season on lower slopes, stable morning flying conditions.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Flights operate but cold at altitude. Very clear air gives stunning visibility.
Monsoon (Jun–Aug)
Flights weather-dependent — monsoon cloud frequently closes the route. Not recommended.
Permits Required
What to Pack
A detailed packing list will be sent with your booking confirmation. Gear rental available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Customer Reviews(1)
5.0
1 reviews
Robert Kim
🇺🇸November 2025
Did the helicopter tour for ABC after my partner's knee gave out on day three of the trek. The team reorganised everything within hours — completely stress-free. The pilot landed right at the base camp amphitheatre and we had 20 minutes with Annapurna I and South filling the entire sky. Not the same as walking there, obviously, but absolutely spectacular and worth every dollar. The logistics around Pokhara were perfectly handled.
Frequently Asked Questions
On the Trail
See it in motion
$900
/ person · all-inclusive