Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour

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57 reviews
11 reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
1 Day
Trip Grade
Easy
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5555 meters
Group Size
1-5
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Fly from Kathmandu, Breakfast at Everest View Hotel, Over Fly around Kala Patthar and EBC,
Best Time
March, April, May and September, October, November

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour: At a Glance

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour is the best way to explore the majestic Himalayas and the magnificent landscapes of the Khumbu Region. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to visit Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake but aren’t able to because of time or physical constraints.

The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter day tour gives you a close flyover of Kala Patthar followed by Everest Base Camp. You will not land on either destination but can still observe climbers preparing for their expedition, and the high-altitude ambiance there.

After your EBC flyover, your next destination is the pristine Gokyo Lake. Here, take in the magnificence of all 7 lakes in the Gokyo region, and also step foot on this sacred lake with both Hindu and Buddhist prominence.

The trip also makes stops at Namche Bazaar’s Everest View Hotel and Periche. You have an option for breakfast at the Everest View Hotel, while you can enjoy the periphery of Periche during the layover there.

Alongside the major highlights, you can also find spectacular views of some of the peaks in the region. Watch out for Shishapangma (8,012 m), Gauri-Shankar Himal (7134 m), Cho Oyu (8201 m), and Makalu (8463 m).

Why Go on the Helicopter Tour to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake?

Are you looking to go on a helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake? Here are some key reasons to go on the helicopter day tour:

Unique Experience of Sherpa Culture and Traditions: Though the tour mostly gives you aerial views of the Khumbu region, there are some points where you will be stopping for short layovers. Here, you can take the opportunity to interact with the locals and take a brief moment to visit and experience the culture and traditions of nearby villages.

Short Duration: The short duration day tour is ideal for people in a time crunch. Per our itinerary, we take off from Tribhuvan International Airport’s helipad at 7:00 am and return by 12:00 noon. However, due to the weather conditions, there may be minor changes in the timings.

Ideal for People with Physical Constraints: Trekking to the Everest Base Camp, and getting a glimpse of the Everest is a bucket list activity for many. However, due to physical constraints, this may not be possible for all. Our Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake scenic helicopter flight day package change the dreams of travelers with a zeal to visit the Khumbu region and experience the thrill into reality.

Religious Tour: Gokyo Lake is a place of religious significance to the Hindu and Buddhist communities. According to Hindu folklore, lord shiva found relief from the deadly Kaalkut poison after drinking the waters from the Gokyo Lake. Likewise, the Buddhists too consider the lake a sacred religious site. On the northern shore of the Gokyo lake, you can find a revered Buddhist monastery; a peaceful center for spiritual contemplation and prayer.

Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Helicopter Landing Tour Permit

Travelers require several permits to take the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour. Here’s the list of permits:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

You will need to secure a Sagarmatha National Park Permit even if you are taking a helicopter tour of the region. The cost for the permit is NRS 3500 (approx USD 35) per person.

Pasang Lhamu VDC Permit

The Passang Lhamu VDC permit is a mandatory requirement if you are taking the helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake. Orbit Alpine Adventure will obtain the pass for you in advance. Present the permit on the officer’s desk at Everest View Hotel, Namche Bazaar.

Cost of Helicopter Tour to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake

The cost of a helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake is affected by a few factors such as your group size, the helicopter company in Nepal you are taking the service from, and the season. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with expert representatives of Orbit Alpine Adventures for precise costs. Or, you can check out our fixed departure packages to find out the cost package for your trip.

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour:

Alternative Helicopter Tours in Nepal

The Himalayas of Nepal are infamous for unpredictable weather. As a result, several helicopter tours are canceled, leaving travelers in a state of uncertainty. Due to such unforeseen events, the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter tours are too prone to cancellation. In such cases, travelers can opt for the Annapurna Helicopter Tour. This tour takes travelers into the Annapurna region and offers picturesque views of snowy peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys of the region.

Gokyo Landing Helicopter

Another alternative would be the Langtang Helicopter Tour. Situated in the north of Kathmandu, this tour allows you to embrace the panoramic vista of the Langtang range. You can also get further insights into the lifestyle of the local Tamang community during this tour.

Likewise, the Mustang Helicopter Tour takes you back in time to the ancient kingdom of Mustang. This tour combines serene mountain views with the age-old Tibetan customs of the region.

Best time for Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Landing Helicopter Tour

Spring (March to May), and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake by helicopter. You can expect good conditions with stable weather and clear skies during these months. Also, as the visibility is excellent in spring and autumn, you have better chances of taking in the stunning scenery to the fullest.

An additional benefit of going on a helicopter tour of Everest and Gokyo Lake in the peak season is that you will not have to tackle the crowded trails and hotels. Above all, the temperatures are comfortable during these times, making your experience more enjoyable.

Gokyo Lake View Heli Tour

While helicopter tours to Everest Base Camps and Gokyo lakeLakemonsoon and winter are possible, the weather may lead to fewer helicopter tours during these seasons. Also, though helicopter flights are possible, the weather in the Himalayas is ever-changing, and the heavy rainfall and poor visibility can impact your tour experience.

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour Itinerary

6:00 - 7:00 AM: Pick Up from your Location in Kathmandu | Transfer to TIA Helipad Altitude: 1,340 Meters

Make sure you wake up on time as a representative from Orbit Alpine Adventures will come to pick you up at your hotel/apartment early in the morning. Due to sparse traffic in the early hours, you can expect to reach the airport in 20-30 minutes.

Make sure you are well prepared for the tour. Wear warm jackets, gloves, trousers, and sunglasses. Check that you have packed your passport, a bottle of water, light snacks, and any medicine you would require.

7:00 AM: TIA Helipad Check in Altitude: 1,340 Meters

There is a brief procedure for check-in at the airport. Hand in your passport to our representative, and queue in line to take in your weight. This is an important procedure for the Everest and Gokyo Lake Landing Helicopter Tours.

Next, collect your boarding pass and head to the waiting room. Depending on the air traffic and weather conditions, you may be required to wait for some time. When you’re ready for take-off, the airlines will announce your name, and you will proceed to the helipad.

Here, you will be provided with safety tips for helicopter tours in the Himalayas. You will learn to handle the helicopter doors and ways to get in and out of the helicopter. It is always crucial that you use the exit and enter into the helicopter facing the cockpit. Never, walk toward the tail of the helicopter. Also, remember that you will be required to change the seating locations to take turns enjoying the outside views. If you feel the need for oxygen, inform the captain immediately.

7:00 AM to 7:45 AM: Kathmandu to Lukla Flight Altitude: 2,860 meters
Time: 45 Minutes

The journey to Mount Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake by helicopter begins. You can expect to find clear views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Dorje Lapka during the flight. As the landscape changes from the hills to the mountains, you will see farmland, evolve into lush forests, and then to rocky terrains.

You will see Mount Everest, and Lhotse as the helicopter passes through the Lamjura-La high ridge (3,500 meters). From here, you will slowly head to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport where you’ll stop to refuel for a brief moment.

7:45 AM to 8:00 AM: Lukla to Namche Altitude: 3,440 meters
Time: 15 - 20 Minutes

From Lukla, you will head to Namche on a 15-20 minute flight. Here, you will find representatives from the Sagarmatha National Park, and Passang-Lhamu VDC who will check your tour permit.

Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour

Next, you can head for breakfast at the Everest View Hotel. As you enjoy your breakfast, get a 360-degree view of the Himalayan range, and its vast terrain. Relish the sights of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Tao Wache, and more peaks.

8:00 AM to 8:15 AM: Namche to Pheriche Altitude: 4,371 meters
Time: 15-20 Minutes

Your next stop is Pheriche. From Pheriche, the captain will shuffle your seatings and will take 2 passengers at one time to the next destination.

8:15 AM to 9:00 AM: Pheriche to Everest Base Camp via Kala Patthar Altitude: 5,364 meters | 5550 meters
Time: 45 Minutes

Now, you are heading toward the first highlight of the tour. The helicopter will take a flight to Kala Patthar first then will take you to the Everest Base Camp. During the flight, you will get stunning views of Cho-La Pass, Lobuche Peak, and settlements along the Khumbu region. From Kala Patthar, you will make your way to the Everest Base Camp where the captain will encircle the base camp from the sky allowing you to get a glimpse of the activities there. If you take the tour in the peak season of April and May, you will find submitters preparing to ascend and acclimatize in the base camp.

The helicopter will not land in either of the locations due to the criticality of the region. The region experiences movement of glaciers, avalanches, and rockfalls which do not permit landing in Everest Base Camp.

9:00 AM to 9:45 AM: Pheriche to Gokyo Lake Altitude: 4,700 to 5,000 meters
Time: 15 Minutes

From Everest Base Camp, the captain directs the flight to Gokyo Lake, located at an altitude between 4,700 meters to 5,000 meters, these lakes are the highest freshwater lake system. From the helicopter, you will find the pristine beauty of the lake sparkling in shades of blue and green.

Next, the captain will land the helicopter at Gokyo Lake. Following the safety precautions, step out of the chopper to capture the beauty of the vicinity. You now have 10 to 15 minutes to enjoy the surroundings.

Take some photos, and videos to safeguard as memories. And, if you’re uploading the beauty of the Gokyo Lake on social platforms, be sure to tag Orbit Alpine Adventures too.

9:45 AM to 10:00 AM: Fly Back to Lukla Altitude: 2,860 meters
Time: 15 Minutes

You are now nearing the end of your EBC and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour. Your next stop is Lukla. Here, you will have a brief layover, after which you will head back to Kathmandu.

10:00 AM to 10:45 AM: Lukla to Kathmandu Altitude: 1,340 meters
Time: 45 Minutes

It’s time to bid farewell to the amazing atmosphere of the Khumbu region. However, as you head back to Kathmandu, you will get amazing views of the Himalayan Terrain, including the majestic peaks one last time, but from the sky. Take in the beauty of the region as you head back to Kathmandu.

Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Landing Helicopter Tour Cost Details

While several factors affect the cost of your trip, you can refer to our fixed departure rates for the standard Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Landing Helicopter Tour package. Our Standard package includes:

Things to see and do on a helicopter tour of Everest and Gokyo Lake

There are several things to see and do on a helicopter tour of Everest and Gokyo Lake. For instance, from the time you board the helicopter, you will find the amazing landscapes of Nepal evolving from lush valleys to rocky mountains. As you enter the Himalayas, you can see several peaks standing tall. The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour’s highlights include the spectacular views of Gokyo Lake, Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and the charming Gokyo villages.

Kalapatthar Landing

During your brief layover in Namche Bazaar, you will be taken to Everest View Hotel for breakfast. You can enjoy your breakfast with a view of the mountains. In Gokyo Lake, the captain will allow 10 to 15 minutes to take in the beauty of the lake from the ground. Capture the moment on film, and photos.

Cost Details
Includes
  • Both-way transport by private vehicle
  • Bird-eye view of the Himalayan Landscape
  • Warm jacket in case you don’t pack one for the tour
  • A helicopter tour from Kathmandu to Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Pheriche, Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lake, Lukla, and back to Kathmandu
  • 10 to 15 minutes landing time in Gokyo Lake
  • All government taxes, and permits
  • Breakfast at Everest View Hotel
Excludes
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tips to driver (Tips are customary in Nepal)
Essential Information

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour:

Gear/Essentials Checklist

Though this is a day tour, you will need the following essentials for the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour:

  • Warm Clothing: Despite the warm conditions in Kathmandu, the weather in the Himalayas can be chilly. Take a warm jacket and an extra layer of clothing.
  • Sunglasses: You will need to take good quality sunglasses with UV protection for your eyes from the intense sunlight in the Himalayas.
  • Hat and Gloves: Hat and Gloves are crucial to keep your head, ears, and hands warm.
  • Sunscreen: The intense sunlight emits high levels of UV rays. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF.
  • Camera: The views of the Himalayas are stunning. Carry a camera, or simply a phone, camera to capture memories you create on your journey.
  • Personal Identification and Permits: Carry your passport, or other valid identificationalong with the permits required for the tour.
  • Comfortable Shoes: Go on the tour wearing comfortable shoes as you may go around Gokyo Lake during the short excursion.
  • Snacks/Drinks: You can take some snacks to enjoy during the flight. It is also permissible to open a bottle of champagne in the Gokyo lake to celebrate your achievement.
  • Medication: If you have any medical condition, don’t forget to bring the necessary medications.
Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour FAQs

The Himalayas have unpredictable weather. If the weather is unfavorable during your flight day, the tour might get postponed or canceled. The pilot prioritizes the safety of the passengers above all else. As a precaution, it is recommended to have a contingency day to compensate for the lost day.

The average weight per person is 70 to 90 kilos, and the maximum weight capacity of the helicopter is 500 Kgs when flying at an altitude of over 4000 meters. Therefore, we recommend only carrying small items on the flight. Per our safety protocol, we will weigh all passengers before taking the flight.

Yes, you can take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, then go on the conventional trekking to EBC, and Kala Patthar then request a helicopter pick-up once you have completed your trek.

Yes, you can charter a private helicopter for the EBC and Gokyo Lakes tour. Though the cost of a chartered flight is more expensive than group tours, we guarantee the best services at the most reasonable cost.

We provide safe drinking water to all travelers. But, it is a good practice to bring your own water as well.

Considering the altitude and activities in the Everest Base Camp, our flyover lasts 5 to 10 minutes. This duration is enough to enjoy the view of the mountains and witness the lifestyle, and preparation of climbers in the EBC.

Absolutely! Based on our current schedule, we anticipate finishing the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour around 12:00 PM. Even if there are slight delays, you'll still have plenty of time to make plans for the evening upon returning to Kathmandu.

You will need to bring along your passport with your visa, travel insurance, and flight tickets.

Helicopter companies run several trips in the Everest region during the tour. For example, during your layover, the helicopter company may fly in trekkers from one destination to another, or conduct rescue operations. You will not face major delays.

You can expect the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter tour to end in 6 hours if all conditions are ideal.

Wear warm and comfortable clothes. As you will get a brief excursion in the Gokyo Lake, remember to wear robust shoes with strong grip. Also, the reflection of the snow is strong in the Himalayas. Carry a pair of sunglasses, and apply sunscreen.

You can bring your own food and drinks. However, the high-altitude conditions can influence your digestive process. A good option would be to bring easily digestible food. Also, carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.

Yes. If the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour is canceled due to weather or unexpected events, you can get a full refund. Yet, we still encourage getting travel insurance that covers potential tour cancellations. Other alternatives include rescheduling your tour or transfer credit for future adventures with Orbit Alpine Adventures.

Helicopters are a safe way to fly in the Himalayas. Also, due to the possibility of controlled landing, in case of adverse conditions, helicopters are a more preferred means of commuting compared to twin-otter airplanes. Given that the operator, pilot, and passengers follow safety protocols set by the aviation authorities, it is generally safe to take the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Landing Helicopter tour.

With 5 passengers on board, the middle-seat passenger may be restricted to the view outside. However, passengers interchange seats during the flight. You can also request the captain to make adjustments. It is important to keep communications between fellow passengers, and pilots open for a safe and pleasurable journey.

Our crew is well-trained to recognize and address altitude-related symptoms. If you experience any discomfort, please don't hesitate to inform us. We can provide supplemental oxygen and, if necessary, arrange for a descent to a lower altitude. Your safety is our top priority.

Yes. Solo travelers can join the helicopter tour and will be assigned to an existing group.

Landing in Gokyo Lake is weather-dependent. While we prioritize landing there, we may need to cancel it if the weather conditions are unfavorable.

The capacity for the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes helicopter tour is 6 people. However, per the safety protocol set by the aviation authorities, only 2 passengers are permitted to fly from Pheriche to Everest Base Camp.

The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake helicopter landing tour does not have an age limit. However, the tour involves flying to high altitudes; some passengers may be prone to altitude-related ailments. Therefore, it is crucial for travelers to evaluate their health and physical capacity before taking on the tour.

The EBC and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour is eligible for a broad group of people. We recommend this tour to children above the age of 7, under parental supervision, to take on this tour. Also, if you are physically able, even people above 90 can go on the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake helicopter tour.

No, you can’t see the Everest peak from Everest Base Camp. However, Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Helicopter Tour offer several viewpoints to view the summit of Mount Everest.

Located at an altitude of 5,357 meters, you can get a pristine view of Mount Everest, and other peaks such as Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu from Gokyo Lake.

No, helicopter landing in EBC and Kala Patthar is not possible during the EBC and Gokyo Lake landing helicopter tour. Here are the main reasons:

  • The Helipad in Everest Base Camp is located on a glacial lake. Due to the shift in the landing space, helicopter tours are not permitted landing in the Everest Base Camp.
  • Kala Patthar helicopter landing is prohibited due to the rocky terrain. Also, the ban was imposed to minimize the disturbances to the trekkers.
  • Stalling the helicopter in a sub-zero condition can lead to the engines turning off.

The prices during monsoon and winter may be higher than in Spring and Autumn due to weather. Though helicopter flights are possible even in peak monsoon and winter, if the conditions are less hazy, you may find it difficult to get a tour during these times. Helicopter companies mostly prioritize transporting trekkers to the Everest region, and search and rescue operations during these times. Therefore, due to the rarity of helicopter tours in winter and monsoon, the prices are likely to increase.

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