Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek

Location

Annapurna

Duration

8 Days

Elevation

4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp)

Best season

Spring (Mar–May), Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Trip Type

Tea House Trek

Starts/Ends

Pokhara

Group Size

1-15 Pax

Accomodation

Hotel/Tea House

Meals

BLD

Permits

TIMS Card & Annapurna Conservation Permit

Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek with Helicopter Return is a perfect blend of adventure and luxury, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif without the need for a return trek. This 8-day trek from Pokhara takes you through lush forests, traditional villages, and alpine landscapes before reaching the iconic Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 ft). The thrilling helicopter ride back to Pokhara provides an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

The total trek covers approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles), with daily hikes averaging 5-7 hours. This moderate-difficulty trek is suitable for fit beginners and seasoned trekkers alike.

Major Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return:

  • Spectacular sunrise and mountain views from Poon Hill (3,210 meters).
  • Walk through charming Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong.
  • Experience diverse landscapes from rhododendron forests to alpine meadows.
  • Reach the iconic Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters) with a stunning 360° mountain panorama.
  • Enjoy a luxury helicopter ride from ABC to Pokhara, saving time and energy.
  • Witness Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna I, and Hiunchuli up close.
  • Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda to relax after your trek.

Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

  • Spring (March to May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and ideal temperatures.
  • Autumn (September to November): Best visibility with crisp mountain views and mild weather.
  • Winter (December to February): Quieter trails but colder nights.
  • Monsoon (June to August): Rainy and slippery, but lush green landscapes.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty Level:

The ABC trek with helicopter return is classified as moderate. The ascent involves steady climbs with some steep sections, but the helicopter return reduces descent fatigue. Daily hikes range from 5 to 7 hours, making it suitable for beginners with a good fitness level.

Short Itinerary

Day 1 :
Arrival in Pokhara (820 meters)
Day 2 :
Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540 meters)
Day 3 :
Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,874 meters)
Day 4 :
Sunrise at Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani (2,630 meters)
Day 5 :
Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170 meters)
Day 6 :
Trek from Chhomrong to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters)
Day 7 :
Helicopter Return to Pokhara
Day 8 :
Departure from Pokhara

Details Itinerary

Hotel

Arrive in Pokhara, a serene lakeside city. Explore Phewa Lake, visit Davis Falls, or relax at your hotel.

Overnight in Pokhara.

MEALS
Breakfast

Lodge

Drive Duration: 1.5 hours (40 km)

Trek Duration: 4-5 hours (9 km)

Begin your trek from Nayapul, passing through lush forests and charming villages. Reach Tikhedhunga, a small settlement surrounded by waterfalls and green hills.

Overnight in Tikhedhunga.

MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Lodge

Trek Duration: 6-7 hours (12 km)

Ascend the famous Ulleri stone steps (3,200 steps), passing through rhododendron forests. Enjoy your first clear views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli from Ghorepani, a beautiful Gurung village.

Overnight in Ghorepani.

MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Lodge

Hike Duration: 1 hour to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) for sunrise.

Trek Duration: 5-6 hours (10 km) to Tadapani.

Witness the famous sunrise from Poon Hill, offering panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. Continue through pine and oak forests to reach Tadapani.

Overnight in Tadapani.

MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Lodge

Trek Duration: 5 hours (9 km)

Descend through forests and cross suspension bridges. Reach Chhomrong, a picturesque village known for its panoramic mountain views and cozy teahouses.

Overnight in Chhomrong.

MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Lodge

Trek Duration: 7-8 hours (14 km)

Pass through Himalaya and Deurali, enjoying cascading waterfalls and alpine forests. Arrive at the majestic Annapurna Base Camp, where you are surrounded by towering peaks. Celebrate your achievement with breathtaking sunset views.

Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp.

MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

Hotel

After a hearty breakfast, enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara (approx. 20 minutes).

Capture stunning aerial views of the Annapurna Sanctuary and Machapuchare.

Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel in Pokhara.

MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner

After breakfast, depart from Pokhara or continue your adventure.

MEALS
Breakfast

Include/Exclude

What are Included In My Package ?

  • Airport pick-up/drop-off in Pokhara
  • TIMS and ACAP permits
  • Accommodation in teahouses during the trek
  • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
  • Professional trekking guide and porters
  • Helicopter ride from ABC to Pokhara
  • First aid kit and emergency support

What are excluded from the package ?

  • International flights
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (with helicopter evacuation)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra snacks and drinks

Useful Information

  • Starting Point: Pokhara (820 meters)
  • Key Stops: Nayapul → Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani → Chhomrong → Himalaya → Annapurna Base Camp
  • Return: Helicopter from ABC to Pokhara
  • Total Trek Distance: Approximately 55 km (34 miles)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): Approx. $20
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Approx. $30
  • Passport Copies & Insurance: Must cover helicopter evacuation.
  • Training: Cardiovascular exercises like hiking, cycling, and stair climbing for at least a month before the trek.
  • Acclimatization: Stay hydrated and maintain a steady pace.
  • Gear Check: Ensure proper trekking shoes, warm layers, and a quality sleeping bag.

FAQs

The cost ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 depending on the package and group size.

Yes, with moderate difficulty, this trek is suitable for beginners with basic fitness.

The flight takes approximately 20 minutes.

Yes, travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

You need a TIMS card and ACAP permit, which we arrange.

Yes, but teahouses may charge a small fee for charging.

Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses but may be slow and require an extra fee.

The highest point is 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp).

Absolutely! We can adjust the itinerary to fit your schedule.

Yes, we provide experienced guides and porters for your convenience.

Speak to an Expert

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Sarita Adhikari

Nepal
WhatsApp ++9779846748548

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