Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is one of the most fascinating and distinct trekking prospects in the mainstream Annapurna region. Unlike the regular trekking adventures, in this exciting excursion, you will fly back to Pokhara from Annapurna Base Camp enjoying the epic aerial views of the north-central Himalayan peaks.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the oldest and iconic trekking opportunities in the Nepali Himalayas. This remarkable trek takes you across the beautiful traditional settlements of Gurung and Tamang where you will get the opportunity to gain first-hand experience with their unique culture, traditions, and warm hospitality.
Similarly, this Himalayan trek also doesn’t fall behind the natural allurements as well. Popular as the second most popular Himalayan trekking destination, the Annapurna region boasts an incredible bio-diversity as it is home to one of the most popular conservation areas in the country, Annapurna Conservation Area, which conserves the endangered Himalayan flora and fauna.
This exciting fascinating Himalayan excursion starts with the exploration with exploration of the sub-tropical forested areas with bright and colorful flowers. Navigating your way across the enchanting streams, waterfalls, and rivers, you will then reach the glacial moraines after crossing the alpine meadows. So, this trek is most definitely a fulfilling and gratifying Himalayan journey. The helicopter flight, on top of that, adds a luxurious and enthralling experience to the trek.
Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
- Trekking on one of the most iconic and oldest Himalayan trekking routes
- Traversing across the charming Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Tamanag settlements
- Magnificent views of the north-central Himalayan peaks like Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Khangsar Kang, Macchapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and other surrounding peaks
- Hike to the popular vantage point of Annapurna region, Poon Hill
- Rich flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area
- Exploration of two base Camp in a single trek; Annapurna Base Camp and Machhapuchhre Base Camp
- Aerial views of the Himalayan peaks as you fly over the base camp
Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Detailed Itinerary
Accommodation:Guest House
Ulleri Altitude: 1920 meters
Altitude Gain: 1,098 meters
Trek Distance: 10 km
Trekking Hours: 5-6 hrs
You exciting journey of the Annapurna Base Camp start after a nourishing breakfast at Pokhara. You will then board a comfortable vehicle from Pokhara heading toward the Nayapul. This exciting drive will take about one and a half hours; you will pass through the charming Gurung village of Lumle perched on the mountainside before reaching Nayapul.
From here, you will commence your exciting trekking journey, and in about 30 minutes of uphill trekking, you will reach Birethanti. Then, enjoying the scenic views of the terraced farmlands alongside the Bhurungdi Khola, you will pass through Tikhedunga, Sudame Village, and Hile Village before reaching Ulleri.
Accommodation: Guest House
Ghorepani Altitude: 2860 meters
Trek Distance: 10.3 km
Trekkinmg Hours: 4-5 hrs
Its an exciting day’s trekking adventure today, after breakfast, you will move along the gradually inclining trail immersing in the enchanting views of Annapurna, Macchapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. Trekking past the Banthanti Village, you will then enter the lush trail surrounded by colorful rhododendron forests.
You will move along the forested trail for a while and cross a small bridge to reach Ghorepani Village, situated at the ridgeline. From the vantage point of this beautiful Gurung village, you will be able to catch breathtaking panoramas of the north-central Himalayan mountain ranges as you settle in for the night.
Accommodation: Guest House
Tadapani Altitude: 2610 meters
Altitude Gain: 350 meters
Trek Distance: 11km (with Poon Hill)
Walking Hours: 6-7 hrs
Today’s trekking journey takes you to the one of the most popular vantage point in the lower Annapurna region, Poon Hill (3210m). You will do the hike to this vatage point early in the morning to enjoy a magical sunrise view glittering on the sparkling snow-clad peaks.
From the Poon Hill vantage point, you will be able to enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks like Annapurna I, II, and III, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Tukuche Peak, Lamjung Himal, Nilgiri, Barah Sikhar and other surrounding peaks.
After completing the hike and enjoying a hearty breakfast at Ghorepani, you will then commence your trekking journey toward Tadapani. In this scenic trail, you will pass Deurali before reaching your resting destination today.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Chhomrong Altitude: 2170 meters
Trek Distance: 8.6 km
Trekking Hours: 6-7 hrs
On today’s uphill trekking adventure, you first trek past the terraced farmlands and move along charming trails alongside the Kimrong Khola. You will also occasionally cross the cascading waterfalls and also trek past the beautiful villages of Ghandruk and Chuile.
Enjoy the epic views of the sparkling massifs; you will cross a bridge during the last stretch and follow the steep stone staircase to reach the Gurung village of Chhomrong. From this charming village situated at the lap of the towering Annapurna massif, you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Accommodation:Guest House
Himalaya Altitude: 2,920 meters
Trek Distance: 8.6 km
Walking Hours: 6-7 hrs
Heading toward the further elevation points in your Himalayan journey, you will trek along the beautiful trail alongside Chromrong Khola. Then, ascending on the steep stone stairs, you will trek through lush oak, bamboo, and rhododendron forests to reach Sinuwa Village.
Enjoying on the stunning views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre on the way, you will move along the route that stretches all the way to Khuldigar Village. From here, it is an easy descent to Bamboo, which caters to trekkers in its bamboo lodges, and the final ascend will bring you to Himalaya, your resting destination tonight.
Accommodation: Guest House
ABC Altitude: 4130 meters
Trek Distance: 9.2 km
Walking Hours: 6-7 hrs
This day’s trek will lead you to the main objective of this Himalayan adventure. After leaving Himalaya, you will follow the route across the narrow gorge of the Modi Khola Valley and follow the steep forested trail to reach Hinku Cave.
Then, you will traverse across the Deurali Village before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary which will eventually lead you to the Annapurna Base Camp. You will also trek across Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 meters) in this trekking route to reach the lap of Annapurna.
From Annapurna Base Camp, you will be able to relish the magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges like Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Khangsar Kang, Macchapuchhre, Hiunchuli and Gangapurna.
You will forever treasure this day, immersing in the mystical ambiance of the Himalayas at its foothills. After a long and exciting journey to reach your goal, you will definitely have won yourself the right to intake to an incredible atmosphere to your heart’s content. Thus, on this day, you will spend your night at the base camp enjoying the magical views under the starry sky.
Flight Duration: 20-25 mins
After admiring the mystical allurements of the Himalayas from its base and enjoying the magnificent up-close views of the snow-clad peaks, it is time to pull the curtain on your exploration. On this day, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will bid farewell to the Himalayas and board a chartered helicopter.
Your flight will then gradually hover over from the base of the pristine Annapurna and provide you the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan panorama of the north-central Himalayan prospects.
Then, flying over the mainstream trail, you will hover over the beautiful settlements, fascinating terraced farms, lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and rivers; you head down toward Pokhara.
After landing at Pokhara, you will be transported back to your respective hotel; you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the popular tourist destination in this beautiful city of lakes. Thank you for trekking with Base Camp Adventure, Happy journey!
Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Map
Cost Includes and Excludes
Cost Includes
- Airport transport (both pickup and drop-off)
- Standard three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Best accommodation facility available in the region
- Government-licensed and experienced trekking guide with fluent in English
- Strong and helping porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
- Food, transport, salary, equipment, and insurance of all the trekking staff
- Expensive first aid kit
- Oximeter to check your oxygen saturation level during the trek
- All the necessary permits and entrance fees during the trek
- Annapurna Base Camp trek map
- Down jacket, duffel bag and sleeping bag (if required)
- Cost of helicopter flight from base camp to Pokhara
Cost Excludes
- Cost of travel insurance
- Meals during your Pokhara stay
- International airfare and Nepali visa
- Food, snacks, and beverages that are not mentioned in the itinerary package
- Personal trekking equipment
- Tips for guides and porters
- All other personal nature expenses
Useful Info
Best Time for Trek
For the best experience, the peak seasons like spring and autumn are considered the ultimately ideal period to take part in this Himalayan exploration. Both of these seasons have the best climatic conditions and add their own charms to the trekking adventure, which makes the excursion valuable.
Spring (March, April, and May) is the peak point of nature, meaning your trekking trails will be decorated with the colorful vistas of nature. If you do Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return in spring, you will trek amidst the colorful wildflowers and lush greenery. The melting snow also adds momentum to the cascading rivers, streams, and waterfalls, which will make the excursion magical.
Similarly, autumn (September, October, and November) has the most stable weather conditions and temperatures, which are ideal for outdoor adventures. The hues of grey and crimson, which represent this fall season, add a unique experience to this Himalayan excursion.
On top of that, the autumn is known as the harvest and festive season. Nepal celebrates some of the major festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, Teej, Gai Jatra, and Mani Rimdu in this period. So, if you want a first-hand experience of the cultural aspects of the country, this it the time to be in Nepal.
Temperatures of Annapurna Region During Spring and Autumn
Temperature of Annapurna Region in Spring (March to May): 10°C to 20°C
Temperature of Annapurna Region in Autumn (September to November): 5°C to 18°C
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- Annapurna Base Camp Trek in June
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How Difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate and comfortable trekking experience in the mainstream Annapurna region. It is, in fact, one of the beginner-friendly exploration prospects in the Himalayas. The difficulty factors of this adventure are on a moderate scale, and the overall trip isn’t typically as demanding as other treks that take you across Himalayan passes and high-altitude points.
Regardless, you will still need to overcome a few hurdles in this exciting trekking adventure that takes you along one of the oldest and classical routes in the Himalayas. You will begin your trekking adventure at Nayapul (1,070 meters) and slowly navigate along the high-altitude points of the trek, reaching the maximum altitude at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters).
Thus, the overall altitude gain in this trip is about 3,060 meters (10,039 feet) from the starting point. So, even if the overall trek isn’t that physically challenging, you will still need to be careful about the Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Similarly, the Annapurna Base Camp trekking distance is approximately 115 km (71 miles); you will need to trek for about 4 to 6 hours on average during each day of the exploration.
However, in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return, as you will fly back to Pokhara directly from the base camp, your trekking distance will be cut by half. So, the difficulty level drops to an even further level, making this exploration a comfortable and remarkable journey.
Training and Preparation
Needless to say, as you are embarking on an iconic Himalayan adventure that takes you to significant altitudes, you need to train adequately to relish the experience. Your comfort level during the trip and how much you are enjoying the experience will entirely depend on the effort you put in during the training.
So, make sure you are well-prepared; otherwise, you may have to drag yourself throughout the trek, completely missing out on relishing the journey part. The general training recommended period for high-altitude treks in Nepal is about 3 to 8 weeks.
You can decide on the duration of your training after going through a physical assessment and working out on your weak aspects. Remember, preparation doesn’t mean that you will have to get in the best shape of your life; emphasize the endurance and stamina part to easily overcome the minor hurdles of this Himalayan journey.
Endurance Training Exercises: Squat, Lunge, Plank, Deadlift, Hollow Hold, Plank, Leg Extension, Calf Raise, Woodchop, Push Up, Overhead Press, etc.
Stamina Training Exercises: Jumping Jack, Jogging, Swimming, Dancing, Kick Boxing, Jumping Rope, Rowing, Cycling, etc.
Permits Necessary for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will need to trek through the protected areas of the mainstream region. You will generally require two major permits for doing Himalayan adventure:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit
- Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Both of these permits are mandatory for this trek, and if trekkers are found to be trekking, they will be liable for the fine and may even get banned from the region. The cost of an ACAP Permit is about US$ 30, and the TIMS Card costs about US$ 17.
These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board’s office located in Kathmandu or from their outlet in Pokhara. For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return, Base Camp Adventure will collect all the required permits on your behalf.
What Kind of Food and Accommodation Can You Expect During Trek?
Annapurna region is only behind the Everest region for the most iconic trekking experiences in the Himalayas. It means as a mainstream trekking region, the food and accommodation of the Annapurna region are more developed than other remote trekking parts. So, during your Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return, you will be able to enjoy a moderate to luxurious level of facilities.
In this exciting Himalayan trekking package, you will spend six nights on the mountain, including one night at the Annapurna Base Camp. From the accommodation aspects, even in a standard trekking package, the lodging facilities are pretty cozy and on a moderate scale.
You will stay in private rooms with two or three shared beds in a standard trekking package. Similar to the sleeping arrangements, the bathroom facilities are also on a shared basis; they may be attached to the room or outer vicinity of the teahouses.
During your trek, you will stay at warm and comfortable teahouses that offer basic amenities like shower, internet, TV, and charging facilities. There are also communal areas at the teahouses/lodges where trekkers can interact with other adventurers.
Note: We also provide the luxurious trekking package option if you are looking for a more personalized experience. You will not have to pay any extra fees for basic amenities in the luxury package.
Food and Beverage
Like the accommodation facilities, the food and beverages on this trekking trail are available on different standards, from basic to luxurious. During your trekking days, you will be able to enjoy a diverse range of menus in this mainstream route, which comprises of delightful cultural delicacies and other Asia culture-inspired dishes as well as a popular Western menu.
You can generally expect the following menus at the teahouses/lodges during your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
For Breakfast: Egg, Toast, Jam, Butter, Honey, Cornflakes, Oats, Museli, Fruits, Gurung Bread, Muesli, Selroti, Paratha, Chapati, Pancake, etc
For Lunch and Dinner: Traditional Dal Bhaat, Thakali Set, Dhindo, Gundruk, Pakoda, Momo, Chowmein, Thukpa, Shyaphale, Rilduk, Pizza, Sandwich, Burger, Pasta, Steak, Fries, etc
Similarly, for the beverages, you can enjoy refreshing cold drinks, fruit juice, warm savory delights, and alcoholic drinks. However, you should either completely avoid alcoholic beverages or drink them in moderation, as they can affect your acclimatization process.
Trip Safety
Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return with Base Camp Adventure will be only be handled by a group of experts. A government-licensed trekking guide with relevant years of guiding experience in the route will lead your team through the laps of the pristine Himalayas.
We will prioritize the safety and comfort aspects of your Himalayan journey to ensure that you have a memorable experience. Even though the altitude gain in this trip isn’t that significant, we will moderate physical conditions and how well you are adapting to the new altitudes.
Furthermore, we also make immediate arrangements for supplementary oxygen bottles if necessary. In case of any kind of emergency or unforeseen circumstances, your high altitude and first-aid guide will take an appropriate measure to coordinate with the main office.
As this is a fully guided trekking adventure, you don’t have to worry about anything during your trip. Let us take care of every aspect of your exhilarating Himalayan trek so you can just immerse in the experience and make memories.
Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return Worth It?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is one of the most exciting Himalayan trekking adventures in the Nepali Himalayas. Not only will you traverse across one of the oldest trekking routes in the Himalayas, immersing in its incredible allurements, but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy aerial views of the north-central Himalayan prospects.
The memory of hovering over from the base of the gigantic Annapurna massifs and relishing the bird-eye views of the pristine Himalayan peaks will be something that you wil treasure for your lifetime. This luxury experience of aerial Himalayan view is something trekking enthusiasts all over the world yearn for.
Furthermore, this classical trek blended with helicopter return significantly reduces the overall difficulty level of this trekking adventure. So, even trekkers who are conscious of the physical demands of this iconic route can partake in it.
Thus, this exciting journey that explores the second most popular trekking region in the Himalayas in an easy mode and concludes the journey hovering over sparkling Himalayan peaks from their foothills and unfolds the hypnotizing aerial vistas, is certainly worth it.
Who Can Do This Trek?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is suitable for any trekking enthusiast who is willing to put some effort into the physical preparation. This Himalayan exploration doesn’t take trekkers to significant altitudes, nor does it have any technically demanding sections.
Thus, anyone with good health and reasonable fitness can take part in this trekking adventure. The overall success rate of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a complete 100%; trekkers who are well-prepared hardly fail to conquer this classical route.
You also won’t have to trek over Himalayan passes or significant altitudes above 5,000 meters. So, this base cam trek is also perfect for a beginner trekker who wants to build up Himalayan trekking prospects.
This trek doesn’t have any kind of age restrictions as well; in its trekking history, even families with children as young as 5 years old and elderly trekkers in their 70s have successfully conquered this classical route.
So, if you are looking for a fulfilling Himalayan trekking experience with a relatively moderate difficulty level, Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is the most ideal and complete trekking package.
Note: If you have any kind of health condition, you should consult the trekking guide and your physician about the trek.
Packing Checklist
To ensure a comfortable trekking experience, on your part, you will need to bring appropriate layers and necessary gear for this Himalayan trip. During this Himalayan trek, you will traverse different climatic zones and navigate the remote part of the Annapurna region; thus, packing adequately will determine your overall enjoyability scale.
Base Camp Adventure also provides a strong porter for every two trekkers, and the weight limit for the porter is 15 kg per trekker. You will have to carry the extra luggage by yourself or you can hire another porter for your trek.
Here are some of the most basic essentials that you will need during your trek. You can use this list as a reference for your trek pack list.
Head and Body
- Sun hat and scarf
- Winter hat or woolen/insulated hat
- Lightweight gloves
- Winter insulated gloves
- Hiking t-shirts
- Long sleeve t-shirt
- Rain jacket with hood
- Breathable fleece jacket
- Sturdy windproof/waterproof outer layer
- Thermal vest or sweater
- Down jacket
- Lightweight cotton pant
- Hiking comfortable socks
- Waterproof/windproof trousers
- Warm insulated heavyweight trousers for high altitudes
- Undergarments: several pairs with different thickness
Feet
- Lightweight moisture-wicking socks
- Warm insulated socks
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Sports shoes
- Sandals or crocks for teahouse
Personal Hygiene
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Quick dry travel towel
- Soap bar and shampoo
- Small mirror
- Nail clipper
- Razor
- Sunblock cream
- Body lotion and lip care
- Wet wipes, tissue paper
- Toilet paper
- Foot powder
- Hand sanitizer
- Insect repellent
- Female hygiene products
- Small first aid kit
- Personal medication
Equipment/ Gear
- Trekking poles
- Backpack
- Duffleback
- Packsack
- Raincover
- Sleeping bag
- Headlamp (bring an extra pair of batteries)
- Disposable bag
- Multi-purpose knife
- Map, guidebook, and GPS device
- Binoculars, camera
- Books and journals
- Power bank
- Solar charger
- Universal cord
- Entertainment set
Frequently Asked Questions
The general ABC Trek with helicopter return can cost somewhere between US$ 1,400 to US$ 2,000.
This exciting Himalayan adventure can last somewhere between 7 to 9 days depending on the itinerary plan and starting location.
The maximum altitude you reach in this trek is Annapurna Base Camp, which is situated at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,549 feet) from the sea level.
Yes, due to the milder scale of difficulty factors, this trek is perfect for beginner trekkers who want to gain some experience in high-altitude adventures.
For the best value experience, we recommend the high seasons like spring (March to May) and autumn (Septemeber to November).
At the major destinations, Base Camp Adventure arranges accommodation at the teahouses/lodges with shower facilities. However, at the base camps water bucket is provided for bathing.
Yes, teahouses at major destinations do have internet facilities, and you can also charge your devices. You will have to pay around US$ 1 to US$ 5 to use these services, which may vary depending on the altitudes.
Almost all of the teahouses along the trail do offer vegetarian and vegan variants. So, no, it will not be a problem if you are a vegetarian.
If your child is healthy and can adhere to the instructions (well-behaved), then he/she can certainly take part in this trek. In the past, children as young as 5 years old have successfully completed this trek.
You can buy water bottles till Chhomrong at US$ 2 to US$ 4; however, above Chhomrong, you cannot take plastic bottles as they are banned inside the conservation area. You can either fill your reusable bottles at a clean station and filter them or buy boiled water at the teahouses.
