Tips for mountain climbing existing at the very base of the Mount Everest and its surrounding mountains became possible handheld helicopter tour accomplishing the goal in the shortest time possible. Pick a comfortable and special way to visit and experience the world of wonders as well at the top of the highest peak without the physical constraints of a trek.
Tour Overview
The helicopter tour will normally start in the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, and fly over the picturesque surroundings to Lukla where it will continue to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, providing magnificent views of the Everest region.
Duration
EVC Helicopter rides that go to and from the base camp are the most popular option and may last at least four to five hours on average including a quick non-scheduled stop at the base camp or at a distant viewpoint.
Best Time for the Tour
The tourist month is between March and May, and from September to November. Clear no clouds and the possibility of Himalayas getting stopped from landslides are present to the visitor. But you will not need to expect mist on that day.
Tour Itinerary
Departure from Kathmandu
Most of the time the tour starts off with the early morning flight from the airport at Kathmandu. The helicopter ascends through the sky heads the Everest region and passengers sit in the back and start the tour.
Flight to Lukla
The first halt is usually at Lukla, a tiny town with a short, steep airstrip. There is a trekkers’ famous way that is followed and the place is also the main gateway to the Everest region.
Everest Base Camp
The helicopter, as a matter of fact, takes off from Lukla to reach the Everest Base Camp. It is not feasible to land directly at Base Camp. This is because the air is thin and the ground is bumpy there. Hence, the helicopter lands at a spot close by. This spot gives a good view of the area.
Kala Patthar Visit
Many of the tours are scheduled in such a way that visitors also get to stop at Kala Patthar. At Kala Patthar, one will have a whole view of Mount Everest and the Babu Peak which is the most similar to heaven which served as a subsidiary peak.
Return Journey
On the way back, the helicopter stops at the airport refuels in the Lukla region, and after that, it proceeds ahead to Kathmandu.
What to Expect
Breathtaking Views
While you’re on your tour you will merely be able to see Mt Everest and the other nearby Himalayas with another thirty-odd peaks which include Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam. It provides a centrifugally broader view of glaciers, valleys, and undercover rugged scenery.
High Altitude Experience
Some of the places do much with those visitors who reside at higher altitudes and also those who are planning to ascend to the Everest Base Camp which is the height of approximately 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level. A person cannot get away from the fact that such symptoms are from the high altitude of the human organ.
Photography Opportunities
Voyage along this section of the tour invariably brings you to the heights of photography and aerial rendering of the Himalayas. Here the circumstances are calm as one can find out very well and photographs of the mountains are a visual delight.
Preparing for the Tour
Physical Preparation
For those who have undertaken a helicopter tour, it is not as tough as walking, but it is necessary they remain physically fit. Dizziness and nausea resulting from the high elevation can attack anyone, irrespective of their fitness. It would be better if you consult a doctor before the trip, especially if you already have any health issues.
Clothing and Gear
Irrespective of the season, one must wear warm clothes. If possible, it is recommended to wear several layers and, among them, a waterproof one, a warm sweater, thermal underwear, gloves, and a hat. The sunglasses are very valuable to safeguard against the harmful solar radiation at high altitudes.
Altitude Sickness Precautions
Flying in high places can be a bit of a problem to some peeps and queue for some, feel physically sick. Going down to the plane can cause problems with high altitude. There is a hill sickness prevalent when ascending, and it is a lot lower during a helicopter tour. But it still, can sometimes onset. To be safe, you should:
- Drink a lot of water-filled pot
- Do not soak the alcohol space
- Mention the doctor about the medicine for altitude sickness
Doing these things can help you recover when you are up high. Do not forget that people have many different ways to high places.
Safety Considerations
Weather Conditions
The weather around Mount Everest is not predictable at all times. A tour may be delayed or called off because of low visibility or strong winds. It’s better to be flexible with your trip dates.
Helicopter Safety
Reliable travel companies prefer modern helicopters and professional pilots accustomed to the high flying conditions. Nevertheless, you should always remember to check the operators’ safety practices, as well as the operator certifications.
Insurance
Travel insurance that covers the cost of helicopter evacuation is what is strongly advised to purchase. A lot of times regular insurance will not cover the activities that are high up in the mountains, so you might be required to buy adventure insurance or high altitude insurance.
Environmental Impact
Carbon Footprint
Compare to trekking, a trip by helicopters generates a higher carbon footprint. Some tour companies propose the service of carbon offset programs with reference to a comparative mode.
Noise Pollution
Helicopters that frequently fly through the mountains disturb the peacefulness of the mountain ranges and may also stress the animals. Honorable operators control and limit the amount of flights and strictly follow the routes provided to cause minimum noise disturbance.
Cultural Sensitivity
Sherpa people inhabit the Everest region and their ethnic enrichment takes forms of unique traditional practices. Though the helicopter tour is mostly concerned with the connection, it’s vital to show respect to the local customs and their spiritual relationship with the mountains.
Conclusion
The Everest Base Camp helicopter flight, out of all choices, provides a very unique and quick way to witness the magnificence of the world’s highest peak and its neighboring areas. Without the same amount of participation, one can still enjoy the Everest experience being in a more restricted position. Besides being a true adventure in the extreme natural environment, practical readiness, insider/outsider cultural acceptance and attention to safety are the most important things that you have to consider.
