Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Trek-8 days ABC Heli Trek is a great trip holidays of trekking and helicopter flight tour to ABC. This is an ideal trip if you have short time. Since, this ABC Heli trek discovers Ghorepani, Poon Hill and Annapurna base camp.
Ghorepani and Poon Hill is the best view point of Annapurna, offers panorama view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range. At the same time, enjoy different species of rhododendron flowers as you capture all the best parts of Annapurna region while flying back to Pokhara by helicopter.
The short Annapurna base camp helicopter trek is suitable for all including family with children to seniors alike. The thousands of nature loves trek to Annapurna Sanctuary each year. First, we trek to Annapurna base camp via Poon Hill and Ghorepani as the trek passes through beautiful valleys, lush green forest, hamlets and mountainous villages of Gurung and Magar.
The Annapurna Sanctuary Heli Trek begins from Nayapul, although there are different starting point of the trip. We spend an overnight at Annapurna base camp, offers 360 degree views of mountains including Annapurna and Fishtail. Once enjoy the beauty of Annapurna Sanctuary, we flight back to Pokhara by Helicopter. The ABC Heli trek gives a once in lifetime holidays experience of Nepal, though the trip is costly.
Why Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Trek
- A scenic flight to the city of lakes, Pokhara.
- Off-beaten roads, farmlands, terraces.
- Cultural tour around remote ethnic villages.
- Hot springs bath at Jhinu.
- Enjoy mountain views while resting at Teahouses and Lodges.
- A dense forest of rhododendrons and bamboo.
- 360-degree panoramic views of Annapurna I, II, II, south, Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Gangapurna and many more.
- Scenic Annapurna Helicopter Ride.
Trip Itinerary
Day 01Arrive in Kathmandu(1330 m)
45 minutes from airport to Thamel BB Plan- Breakfast Standard Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu
You will be welcomed at the airport and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu where a pre-trek arrival briefing and other information will be given. Remainder of the afternoon is free. Your guide will be happy to assist you in any way he can and will meet you every day while you are in Kathmandu to help you with any queries.
Day 02Kathmandu to Pokhara/trek to Tikhedhunga (1495m, 5 hours)
5 hours AP Plan-Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Basic Tea house lodge
You will take an early morning flight to Pokhara on this day. The lake side city of Pokhara is a beautiful tourism-hub of the country and is also called the adventure-centre of Nepal. Many mountain peaks like Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna can be seen from the city. Pokhara is also famous for its pristine Fewa Lake. The reflection of the Machhapuchhre Himal can be seen on clear days on the surface of the lake. Leisure activities like boating and fishing can also be done. From Pokhara, we will then drive to Nayapul (42km) on a car/taxi, passing the village of Lumle. Walking for about 20 minutes, we will reach Birethanti. Following the main street of Birethanti, we will go through forests of bamboos and past a large waterfall and a swimming hole. Cutting across the pasturelands that are mostly used for pony caravans, we will reach the village of Ramghai where we will have our lunch. After that, we will reach Tikhe Dhunga. Overnight stay at guesthouse breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 03Trek to Ghorepani (2850m, 7 hours)
7 hours AP Plan-Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Basic Tea house lodge
The trail continues across a stream via a suspension bridge from Tikhe Dhunga near the camp site, and ascends to the steep stone staircase to the Magar village of Ulleri. The stone staircase allegedly has 3300 steps and the trail through it is quite beautiful. Ulleri lies at an elevation of 2080 meters. Above the village, the trail continues gently across pasturelands and beautiful cultivated fields of mustard and rice. About an hour’s walk from Ulleri, we will reach a camp site for a rest and a water stop. The trail continues across two small rivers before finally ascending to Nangethanti where we shall have our lunch. During winters, the trail to the village is generally covered in snow. From Nangethanti we will climb to Ghorepani at 2850m, from here we can see the spectacular panorama of Dhaulagiri I (8167m), Tukuche Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and Tarke Kang (7193m). Overnight at guesthouse breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 04Hike to Poonhill (3210m)/trek to Chuile(2500m, 6 hours)
6 hours AP Plan-Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Basic Tea house lodge
This morning, we will get up early and hike to Poon Hill. Poon Hill is a famous vantage point of the Annapurna region popular for its amazing panoramic view of the entire Annapurna mountain massif. From here, we can observe the amazing phenomenon of the changing colors of the mountain as the rays of the sun sweep across their surface. It truly is a beautiful sight. Views of Mount Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna South, the Fishtail Mountain and many others can be seen from here. After visiting Poonhill, we will come back to Ghorepani, have a hot breakfast, and continue walking to Tadapani. Overnight at guesthouse breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 05 Tadapani to Sinuwa (2310m, 6 hours)
6 hours AP Plan-Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Basic Tea house lodge
From Tadapani, we will follow a route to the village of Sinuwa. On the way, the Gurjung route offers amazing view of the Upper Modi valley. The path ascends to the west bank of the Modi Khola and then passes through the village of Chhomrong. Chhomrong village lies at a beautiful location at the very base of Himal Chuli. We will continue our trail alongside the Chhomrong Khola and then climb steadily up ahead to Sinuwa further on. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 06Sinuwa to Deurali (3150m, 6 hours)
6 hours AP Plan-Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Basic Tea house lodge
We will proceed to Kuldi Ghar, which takes about 2 and a half to 3 hours of walking time today. There is a clearing in the forest a little further on from where the route goes very steeply down a bank of rocks and then levels out, running through thickets of bamboo at the bottom of the gorge. The trail keeps to the west side of the river. We will pass by the pasturelands of Tomo, and then trek along the very neck of the gorge at Barah, where there is a small trail and a shrine. The track climbs to the Himalayas from here. Finally, we shall reach Deurali where we shall be staying for the night. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 07Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4210m, 5 hours)
5 hours AP Plan-Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Basic Tea house lodge
Today is a much anticipated day of the trek. We will follow the trail and climb on past the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (which isn’t really a base camp since climbing the mountain is not permitted) to the Annapurna Base Camp. This area is also called the Annapurna Sanctuary, since it is totally surrounded by mountains and is under the protection of the sanctuary. From here, it is a two-hour trek to the Annapurna Base camp, which offers spectacular views of the mountain peaks and lets you experience the wide vastness of snowy terrain and close views of huge Himals. The landscape at the Annapurna Base camp is spectacular and fascinating. The snowy landscape of the Base Camp is very beautiful and the overall view of whole mountain peaks is pretty wonderful. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 08Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara and Back to Kathmandu.
BB Plan-Breakfast Standard Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu
This is another most anticipated day of the trek as today; you will be experiencing one of the most amazing helicopter rides from the base camp of Everest back to Pokhara early in the morning. The aerial view of the mountain peaks from the helicopter is something that inspires thrill and excitement. While looking below, you would be able to notice the dramatic change in the landscape as the snowy lands of the high mountains are replaced with the green hills, terrace farmlands and forests. Sometimes, herds of wild goats can be seen from above, running in a group below. The beautiful landscape of the Annapurna region does not disappoint when seen from a bird ‘eye perspective. The panoramic view of the entire terrain presents itself like a beguiling portrait. Finally, we will land at Pokhara. From Pokhara, we will then take an afternoon flight back to Kathmandu. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.
What's included?
Full fledged Cost
- Airport transfer - hotel/airport/hotel
- Twin sharing standard hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu before and after trek we can book only on your request.
Elementary Cost
- Round way flight from Kathmandu/ Pokhara/ABC via Pokhara/Kathmandu.
- Ground Transportation from pokhara to Nayapul
- Basic twin sharing tea house accommodation during trek.
- 3 times meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek.
- English Speaking guide and all his expenses during the trek like his transfer, insurance, salary, meals and accommodation.
- All Trekking permit -ACAP Permit, local government taxes and TIMS card.
- All government taxes, vat, company service charge.
What's not included?
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Travel Insurance in case of emergencey for rescue and other medication.
- Nepal visa fee
- All kind of hot and cold drinks - coke, fanta, beer, whisky, bottle of water, hot water, tea, coffee etc.
- All personal trekking equipmenets like down jacket and sleeping bag etc.
- Porter to carry your backpack/luggage.
- Tips for guide and porter
- Personal expenses like wifi, hot shower, telephone, battery charge fee.
- Upgraded lodge accommodation like room with private toilet and bathroom during the trek.
- All the cost not mention on above cost includes.
Trip Information
Accommodation on Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Trek
Accommodation will be basic tea houses for boarding/lodging.This is the most popular style of trekking to langtang Valley and simply involves trekking from tea house to tea house. Tea houses are essentially small hotels find in local villages that offer both a place to sleep as well as home cooked meals. Rooms are typically shared with 2 trekkers in a room. Bathrooms are shared as well and in the langtang Trek, the lodges usually have running cold water and western style toilets. Also the hot shower is also available but it need to pay extra cost for it.
In some of the villages on the trek, it may be possible to have a private room with an extra cost and we will do our best to arrange that. However, during busy times of the year there is a limited amount of lodging available in some of the villages so it's generally impossible to arrange private rooms. This is the case even if you're willing to pay extra since the tea house owners will not give out a private room if it means someone else goes without a room.
Meals on Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek
Trekkers can choose a meal/food from the menus at the tea houses. Typical meals on langtang trek includes omelets, toast, boiled eggs, noodle soup, fried rice, macaroni, mo mo, vegetarian curries, pizza or chow mein. The traditional Nepali Dal Bhat which consists of rice, lentils, and a vegetable is all you can eat and always a good choice. Meat on the mountain is not hygienic and we suggest trekkers stick with vegetarian options.
There is not a problem for vegetarian food and in fact we recommend that everyone stick with a vegetarian diet on the trek as the local meat is not refrigerated properly. If you have special dietary requirements just let us know and we will make sure to assist with the proper menu.
Best Season for Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek is a possible trip anytime in the year. But, sometimes the weather becomes the villain for this trip. The best seasons for Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek are the Spring and Autumn.
The months of March, April, May provide clear and undisturbed views of the landscapes and mountains. Similarly, Autumn is equally the best period of Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek. From late-September to the end of December you can embark on this Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek to enjoy the historic natural beauty of the Annapurna region.
The temperatures during these seasons are bearable with the right clothing. However, the temperature of the higher region is always cold, colder than the lower region.
Whereas, Winter and Summer seasons are less crowded. Only a few adventurers choose these seasons to travel to Annapurna Base Camp. The trails are less crowded and the views are also different from the peak season like Autumn and Spring.
The weather during the Winter and Spring season is very unpredictable. As a result, the Winter and Summer seasons are not picked by so many visitors.
To sum up all, Autumn and Spring are the safest and best times to do Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek. In contrast, Summer/ Monsoon and Winter are possible but little risky times to do this Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek.
Equipment for Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trekking
Proper preparation and equipment will give you a great trekking experience. It is also possible to buy/rent trekking gear at affordable price in Kathmandu and Pokhara Nepal. Below is the recommended trekking equipment list for comfortable langtang trek.
Day trek pack
Extra layers, gloves, wind breaker and poncho
Sunscreen
Lip Balm with Sunscreen
Broad brimmed hat or bandana (for sun protection)
Iodine Water Tablets (personal preference)
Water Bottles or Camel Back
Sunglasses
Headlamp with extra batteries
Favorite Snacks
Waterproof bags to protect electronics or paperwork
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
Umbrella (works great in a light rain or to protect from the sun)
Duct tape or moleskin for blisters
Toilet Paper
Trekking Poles (optional)
Thermos (optional for hot beverages)
Head/Hands
Wide brimmed hat
Wool hat (Should cover ears)/Balaclava
Lightweight Gloves
Insulated Wool/Down Mittens
Gaiters (optional)
Body/Leg/Bag
Moisture wicking long sleeve T-shirts (2)
Moisture wicking T-shirts (1)
Long underwear pants (2)
Underwear (5 to 7)
Heavy Fleece/Down Jacket
Long sleeve shirts (2)
Sweatshirt (optional)
Fleece Pants
Trekking Pants (2)
Shorts (optional)
Gore Tex Waterproof Jacket with hood
Rain Poncho that covers your day pack
Waterproof Pants
FootWear
Hiking boots with ankle support
Camp shoes or Tennis Shoes
Plastic bag to carry spare shoes
Hiking socks (10)
Sock Liners (optional)
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bag rated to -20° degree centigrade
Sleeping bag liner (optional)
Sleeping bag stuff sack
Rucksack(Duffel Bag)/Daypacks
Duffel Bag for Carrying Your Gear (we provide this for the trek)
Day Pack for Carrying what you need on the trail
Small Lock(s) for duffel bag and day pack
Waterproof cover for daypack
Dry Bags in several sizes
Stuff sacks for dirty clothes/shoes
First Aid Kit/Toiletries
Advil or Ibuprofen
Diamox (for altitude sickness)
Personal Prescriptions
Medical Tape (for preventing treating blisters)
Antibiotics (Cipro for travelers’ diarrhea)
Diaper Rash Cream (Can treat rashes or chaffing)
Basic toiletries (Soap, Deodorant…)
Wet wipes
Panty Liners and Tampons
Sun/Face lotion
Hair brush
Hair ties
Hand warmers
Ear plugs for sleeping
Money/Paperwork
Passport (needed at entry gate for registration)
Spending Money
One Passport Size Photo (Needed for trekking permit
Other Items
Portable Solar Charger
Journal, pen and paper
FAQs
The rooms/accomodation on Annapurna region Trek are all very basic. There are many nice, cozy and well-furnished rooms available with the delicious food menu and great hospitality in the tea houses and lodges.
Yes, If you had not done trekking before then, this region will be best for the startups which are the moderate level of trekking.
You will need to carry a good-sized of a day pack where you could put your personal belonging items, water, camera, snacks, sunscreen, hat, a fleece jacket and gloves for higher altitudes. The porters will carry the bigger packs with your clothes etc. They will carry packs up to 15kg.
Yes, there are electricity/power in most tea houses at the lower part of the trekking. But no heating in the room. In the higher part of the trekking, there will power only a solar panel. The charging is only possible in the main dining room at expensive rates. The battery charging cost range take as per hour for cameras and laptop computers even more expensive.
Yes, Insurance is almost needed 100% trekking to Annapurna. Injury and altitude sickness are far too common on trek. So it is best to pick up insurance World.
Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), these are the best season to go on a trek in Annapurna Region. The sky is clear at this time, and you will get to see panoramic views of Langtang Mountains.
If someone get sick in the group, a fellow trekker in the group has to descend, then a porter/assistant guide would go with them. So the person descending would be well looked after and it would not impact on the rest of the group's experience. Emergencies are dealt with by the guide and depending on the severity. In a serious case evacuation would be by helicopter.
There is no specify training method to recommend that applies to each individual. The training you should do to prepare for langtang trek depends on your current level of fitness and any medical conditions.Trekking in Annapurna region is suitable for almost all people with moderate fitness. It does not need any prior experience and running, walking, and swimming are the fitness activities to get involved in the excursion.
There are between 2 to 12 fellow travellers in the group. The langtang trek is a popular trip so most of our groups are fully booked. The groups typically are a mix of individuals, couples or friends travelling together. The ages differ and trekkers can be in thier 20's to 60's. The group comprises of people from all nationalities.
Trekking in Annapurna region is considered moderate in difficulty level, but still, a good level of fitness is required to complete the trek. As long as you are physically fit and possess sound health, you can go on this trek. We have a flexible route with enough acclimatization and rest days before heading towards higher elevation.
Annapurna region trek is not dangerous at all because trekking in Annapurna region is considered moderate. The altitude increases with daily ascent above 3,000 m to 4,000 m high.there are risks of getting altitude sickness, as you will be trekking above 3000 m. It depends on the person, how he/she is going to react to altitude regardless of their fitness and experience.
Weather/Temperature in Summer Annapurna region trek in June, July, and August have the hottest temperature.The temperature in the daytime in Annapurna is between 20 to 25 degree centigrade. The maximum temperature is found in the month of June and July. The nighttime temperatures in langtang during the summer is high too. The lowest that the temperature gets in the night time is -3 degree centigrade and a maximum of 5 degrees. The temperature in the months of June and July are pretty similar.
Weather/Temperature in Autumn in Annapurna region Trek lasts from the end of September to the November. This is the part of the year when the cold starts to set in the Annapurna region. The maximum daytime temperature starts to go down from 20 degrees in September and falls to 12 degrees in November. The sun will not be as warm as that in the summers, but that is expected. In September the average nighttime temperature is almost 3 degrees. This starts to fall down and reach in between -7 to - 15 degrees in November
Weather/Temperature in Winter Annapurna region Trek in December, January and February. The coldest of all the months throughout the year, winter at Annapurna as severely cold and poses challenges to the interested people. The average temperature during the daytime in the Annapurna winters is 8 degree centigrade. There is not a lot of difference in the temperature in December, January as well as February. All three months are equally cold. Nighttime is when the temperature falls down drastically. The nighttime temperatures around -7 degrees but it can go as low as -15 degrees.
Weather/Temperature in Spring March/April/ May a perfect time to enjoy Annapurna. The daytime temperature in March is around 12 degrees. This temperature goes up to 15-16 degrees in the month of April and peaks to almost 20 degrees in May. Devoid of biting cold and hot and wet summers, this is a glorious time for all Annapurna lovers.
The nighttime temperatures, although sometimes below zero are not alarmingly low. The lowest that nighttime temperatures get is -8 in March. This increases to -5 degrees in April and -3 in May.
Since you will be in the mountainous region, Wifi and phone network might not work everywhere or for many days. However, most of the guesthouses offer Wifi for free or for a little charge. It is better not to rely on the internet and enjoy your trip.
At the lower altitude guesthouses there will provide the facilities of hot shower. And in rest of the places (at higher elevation), warm water in the bucket will be provided for shower. For all the showers, it costs you extra charge as per shower. The higher you go the hot shower is expensive.
Yes, you will be able to use ATM and Credit Cards during the trip. You can use ATM Card in Kathmandu valley and major cities, it’s better to have cash.
The hotel in Kathmandu provides the free storage services. So you can leave all your items that are not required for the trekking at your hotel or you can leave in our office too.
This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 20 to USD 1000 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide. However, we recommend you to spend minimum 10% of your total trip cost for tipping entire local staffs, the ratio of tipping guide and porter will be given to you at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before starting the trek.
Yes, all our trips are guaranteed to run. We never cancel the trip due to not having enough participants; we can arrange the trip for one person as well as a private trip at very minimum additional cost. Please inquire about this during the time of booking.
These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel reception by paying some charges. Remember to bring TWO and THREE pin travel adapters! You can also buy the adapters in the super markets or electronic shops in the Kathmandu. Our guide can help you with it.
According to thee size of your groups, it differs. The vehicles will be small and light so that it can be handled easily and safely through the narrow roads of Nepal. It can be a car, minibus, land cruiser, van, Jeep.