Trip Facts

  • Duration:5 Days
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Max Altitude:4130
  • Min group size1
  • Best TimeSpring and Autumn
  • Holiday typeTrekking and Adventure

About Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Annapurna base camp trekking is very popular in Nepal and is done by hundreds of trekkers every year. To make this trek more exciting, we have designed this 9 days Annapurna base camp trek that involves helicopter return. Instead of retracing the route from the base camp, you'll fly in a helicopter back to Pokhara. The helicopter flight also lets you relish the jaw-dropping aerial mountain landscape of the western Himalayas. 

Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return makes the journey short, perfect for travelers bound by time. Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) is the tenth-highest mountain in the world, and trekking to its base camp, situated at 4,130 m, is one of the most adventurous and rewarding outdoor sports activities. The trail explores the nooks and corners of the Annapurna Conservation Area and brings you across several alpine flora & fauna. 

The Annapurna base camp trekking route follows the alpine woodlands and picturesque villages resided by people of distinct communities. This trek is considered to offer one of the best insights into Nepali culture because of the diversity of the locals residing along the way. Annapurna base camp trekking is the true venture into the wilds of nature. Forests, rivers, streams, waterfalls, hills, mountains, and glaciers will befriend you. 

Mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Fishtail (6,993 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), etc, are seen from different parts of the trail. The landscapes are diverse and heavenly. You will get to unwind and enjoy the calming scent of the forests & glaciers. The locals and their warm hospitality will make the Annapurna base camp trekking with helicopter return further immersive for you. 

You can do this trek alone or with your loved ones. The elevation is comparatively lower than the very famous Everest base camp trek, and the trail has a gradual pace, making the Annapurna base camp trek 9 days one of the best family adventure treks in Nepal. We organize the Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return for both solo trekkers and groups. Moreover, you'll get the finest service and offers on group bookings too. 

The fact you can spend an overnight at the Annapurna base camp (if you wish to) makes this trek very intriguing. Our booking for the Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return is open. You can send us an inquiry anytime. 

Likewise, feel free to contact us for any query or if you want to customize the Annapurna base camp trek with a helicopter return itinerary. Our team will help you with all of your needs. We also organize the Everest base camp trek with helicopter return. 

Check out these other beginner-friendly treks in Nepal- Mardi Himal trek, Langtang valley trek, Ghorepani Poon hill trek, Everest panorama trek, Tamang heritage trek, and Khopra danda trek. 

Why go on Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return with Adventure White Mountain?

You will get the finest service and the best Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return cost with us. Our professional team will be there to assist you from the day you arrive in Kathmandu till your departure. We have numerous years of trekking experience. Our previous work and expertise in the Himalayas make us a very reliable travel partner. 

Likewise, our focus on eco-friendly travel and contribution to the mountain communities is immense. Trekking with us not only keeps you safe but also lets you trek with a native and directly contribute to his betterment. Our values, goals, and attention to detail ensure a memorable and safe trek in the Himalayas. 

Trip Highlights

  • An adventurous trek to the Annapurna base camp, lap of the tenth highest mountain in the world
  • Return in a helicopter from the base camp to Pokhara, relishing stunning aerial panorama 
  • Trek through the lush alpine woods, crossing rivers and passing by beautiful waterfalls
  • Overnight stays in lovely mountain villages resided by many ethnic groups
  • Come across the exotic flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area while trekking
  • Get to have a close peek into Nepali culture and mountain lifestyle
  • Enjoy breathtaking sceneries and mountain panorama during the trek
  • The package is beginner friendly and a great option for family adventure

Itinerary

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We would like to inform our valued clients that the time duration is depending on the trekker and their physical fitness.
B L D means Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The team of Adventure White Mountain will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. They will take you to the hotel in a private four-wheeler. Settle in your hotel and rest. Later meet the rest of the team members over the welcome dinner in Thamel. We will brief you on the program and introduce you to the trek guide. Spend some time packing and arranging the documents before calling it a night.

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner
  • Altitude1345 Meter

After having an early morning breakfast, we’ll leave for Pokhara. The drive follows the Trishuli river and rolling green hills. It will be a comfortable ride to Pokhara, with beautiful landscapes. Spend the remaining day in Pokhara relaxing and exploring the Lakeside Market. Boat on the tranquil Phewa Lake and witness a stunning sunset

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Time6-7 Hours Drive
  • Altitude822 Meters

After early morning breakfast, we leave Pokhara and drive to Siwai. The first half of the ride is smooth. The road gets a bit bumpy from Nayapul onwards. Siwai is situated above Nayapul. From Siwai, we begin trekking toward Jhinu Danda. Walking alongside the Modi Khola, the trail ascends through lush forests and small villages. We will cross suspension bridges on the way and reach Jhinu Danda.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • MealsB L D
  • Time2 Hours Drive 4 Hours Trek
  • Altitude1780 Meters

Leaving Jhinu Danda, we'll ascend and cross Chhomrong Khola on a bridge. The trail then gradually goes through Sinuwa, Khuldighar, and Bamboo. On the way, we get to see views of Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. Likewise, the trail also let us witness the daily lifestyle of the mountain people. From Bamboo onwards, we will cross a bridge and walk towards Dovan.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • MealsB L D
  • Time6-7 Hours Trek
  • Altitude2600 Meter

It is a short trekking day. From Dovan, we walk through dense forests, enjoying the rich biodiversity and frequent glimpse of snow-capped mountains. The trail ascends via bamboo and rhododendron forests. We will walk alongside Modi Khola to Hinku ridge and walk on an uphill route to Deurali.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • MealsB L D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Altitude3200 Meter

The trail ascends and then gradually descends along the mountainside. The terrain will be steep and rough, so we have to be careful while walking. We will cross a couple of bridges and walk past the avalanche area before we reach Machhapuchhre base camp. The views of the Hiunchuli and Annapurna ranges are fabulous along the way. Further, walking through sparse vegetation and glaciers, we reach the Annapurna Base Camp, the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world. We will spend the night at the base camp.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • MealsB L D
  • Time5 Hours
  • Altitude4130 Meter

Today, we’ll fly back to Pokhara from Annapurna base camp in a helicopter. We will enjoy our breakfast with breathtaking mountain landscapes. As per our helicopter pick-up time, we will descend a few hundred meters to the helipad. Before flying back to Pokhara, we will take a detour over the Annapurna base camp and savor the jaw-dropping aerial beauty of the western Himalayas. Upon landing in Pokhara, the team will drop you at the hotel. Spend the remaining day in Pokhara, exploring the city and relaxing. 

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Time30 Minute Flight
  • Altitude822 Meters

We follow the same route back to Kathmandu. The remaining day in Kathmandu is free. You can do the shopping and visit the local market. Enjoy your last day in the city as you wish. Meet the team in the late evening over a farewell dinner and also receive the trek completion certificate.

  • Accommodation Standard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Time6-7 Hours Drive
  • Altitude1345 Meter

The Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return ends here. Our airport representatives will help you check out of the hotel and drop you at the international airport terminal three hours before your flight departure time. We hope to see you soon again. Until then, goodbye, and have a safe flight

  • MealsBreakfast

What's included

Included

  • Costs related to all airport and hotel transfers.
  • 2 nights in a hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
  • 3 Nights 4 Days in local lodges/tea houses during the trek
  • All accommodations and meals during the trek
  • Experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide) and Sherpa porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
  • All permits and necessary paperwork (National park permit, TIMS )
  • First aid kit.
  • Flying back by Helicopter on group sharing/Private depending upon the deal

Excluded

  • Visa fee for Nepal (bring accurate USD cash and 2 passport-size photographs)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Extra night accommodation in Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Pokhara (and also in the case of early return from trekking than the scheduled itinerary)
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • All taxes, be it local or 13% government tax. 

FAQs

Our team will provide you with the packing list that you can follow to pack for the Annapurna base camp trekking. Wear a sweat-proof base layer and top it up with warm layers as the climate demands.

If you are in good health and can walk 6 hours a day on an uneven trekking route, then you can join the Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return. You do not have to be super strong or have previous trekking experience to do this trek.

You can carry a sleeping bag during the Annapurna base camp trek. It will keep you warmer than the one blanket provided in your accommodation. You will be much more comfortable too.

Snow does fall at the Annapurna base camp but in the winter season. You may get to see the early snowfall if you happen to be on the trail during the late autumn.

Yes, you can fly from Annapurna base camp to Kathmandu. However, you have to pay an additional charge for the flight, and let us know at least a day before the flight, which gives us time to arrange it for you. 
 

Yes, the helicopter flight from Annapurna base camp is totally safe. Many helicopter flights take off from ABC in the peak trekking seasons.

We work with some of the best helicopter pilots in Nepal. You will be flying with a very experienced crew. Our pilots are well-trained for flying in the Himalayas and have numerous hours of flying experience, so you do not have to worry.

No, you do not need to do anything special for the helicopter flight from the Annapurna base camp. Just wear your comfortable clothes and follow the instructions of your guide. You will be good to go.

Solo trekkers can choose to fly from Annapurna base camp to Pokhara either in a group or privately as per their budget. Group flights are much more affordable than private helicopter flights.

Useful Information

Best time of the year to go on the Annapurna base camp trek with a helicopter

The Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return not only offers views of the scenic mountains, gorgeous streams, and lush greenery and vegetation, but also gives exposure to local culture, art, way of life, and real adventure. During this trekking journey, you will explore the environment as well as learn about local habits and ethnicities. 

The best times to do the Annapurna base camp trekking with helicopter return are in the spring and autumn seasons. These two seasons is the most ideal season for trekking in Nepal as you get to have a clear view of the mountains and a stable temperature that is neither too cold nor too hot. Spring knocks as soon as March starts and lasts till mid-May. The mountain views are fantastic in these months. 

Autumn begins in September and lasts till November. Autumn has the most stable temperature of all seasons. The climate is mild, and the weather remains stable, like in spring. Plus, you will not feel extreme cold or sunburn while trekking, which may happen during winter and summer. Since the sky is clear and the sun shines brightly over the mountains, the whole environment looks extremely exhilarating and captivating.

Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter difficulty

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is considered a moderate trekking journey. The highest you will reach is 4,130 meters, which, if we compare it to other base camp treks in Nepal, is quite low. The ABC trek is a beginner-friendly trek, and combining a helicopter return makes the venture more doable. The trail has many ascents and descents. The terrain is rugged and has a handful of steep sections.

However, with good fitness and determination, you can reach the Annapurna base camp without any issues. Plus, our experienced trekking guide will support you too. Our balanced itinerary with enough acclimatization time and experienced guides and porters will let you enjoy a hassle-free Annapurna base camp trek with a helicopter return.

Altitude Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), often known as altitude sickness, is a common impact of high altitude on individuals caused by acute exposure to the low pressure of oxygen at high altitude. It happens more frequently above 3,000 meters or above. The trekking journey begins in Nayapul at 1,070 meters and ascends to Annapurna base camp at 4,130 m. 

Altitude sickness may affect everyone. However, there is something you can do to avoid altitude sickness. The key is a steady speed of walking and enough water to keep your body hydrated regularly. Once you begin to experience symptoms, you can take preventive measures to subside them. 

Our mountain guide will help you, in case you get symptoms of altitude sickness during the Annapurna base camp trek with a helicopter return. 

Symptoms of altitude sickness

  • Shortness of breathing
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea  
  • Vomiting
  • Headache

Preventive Measures of Altitude Sickness

  • Drink at least 2 liters of water every day
  • Even if you are short on time, do not cut off the rest days
  • Make sure your itinerary has ample acclimatization days
  • If you see any of the above symptoms, inform your guide immediately
  • Avoid alcoholic drinks and smoking

Accommodation and Meals

Lodges and tea houses along the way accommodate the trekkers. However, since the Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter return is a well-known trekking trail, you may not get accommodation to spend the night if not booked in advance. The facilities offered by the tea houses/lodges start decreasing as the altitude increases. The rooms are twin-shared, and washrooms are common in most places. Single rooms are hard to get on the spot. 

You will get a decent variety of food during the Annapurna base camp trek with a helicopter return. The menu option includes Nepali, Tibetan, and Continental cuisine. You will get numerous healthy and hygienic food. Dal Bhat is a superfood. Have veg options as much as you can to not get any stomach issues. 

Electricity and Charging Facilities 

The lodges and tea houses offer separate places for charging your devices. You only have to pay them a few additional bucks. You can carry spare batteries or a power bank for more convenience. This service charge is not covered in the package cost, so carry additional Nepali cash with you. 

Sim Card and WiFi

Internet availability is decent in the Annapurna region. You may get paid wifi in some villages. The best way is to use cellular data. You can buy a Nepali sim with ample data in Thamel. Our team can help you with obtaining one if you ask. The network may get disturbed most of the time because of weather and elevation.

Child policy

If you want to do the Annapurna base camp trek with a helicopter return with your child, then let us know separately. We will arrange the trip as per that. For more information, get in touch with us. Many kids below 15 years of age have done the Annapurna base camp trek with us previously, so we know exactly how to make the journey kids-friendly. 

Tipping to crew members

Guides and porters may ask for tips from you after providing the greatest services and working hard in the mountains. Tipping is highly widespread in the tourism industry as a token of appreciation for their hard work. If you are not happy with your crew, then you can refuse to give them tips. However, if you are satisfied with their work, feel free to tip them as much as you wish. USD 100 is a great number to tip both the guide and porter. Likewise, you can tip USD 2 to the driver and USD 5 to your guide. 

Guide and safety 

Trekking in the Himalayan region comes with its threats and hazards. You can follow various safety measures, such as starting your trek early in the morning, picking the right season, keeping your body hydrated, and the list goes on. All these can be easily taken care of if you take a guide with you. Not only will a guide ensure your safety and that you have a good experience, but they also try to make your journey as smooth as possible.

We provide skilled, competent, and trustworthy guides with excellent English communication skills to ensure that your trip is a success. All our guides are locals who will tell you all you need to know about the mountains, including their many histories, cultures, and traditions. We will offer one porter for every two people. The porters are both helpful and tough. They can carry a total of 20 kg. 

Insurance, Rescue, Evacuation

Trekking in the wilderness is a dangerous activity. You're at a high altitude, the weather conditions are unpredictable, and the trail is often challenging. Avalanches and landslides are possible in the mountains owing to unpredictable weather. Trekkers are, therefore, likely to suffer injuries and diseases ranging from sprains to more severe forms of AMS. 

That is why travel insurance is required for all clients starting on any trip in the Himalayas. It should cover personal injury, medical expenses, helicopter rescue, and luggage loss for the whole duration of the journey. Check that your insurance policy covers altitudes of up to 5,000 meters for Annapurna base camp trekking.