For those who don't have the inclination to spend months preparing themselves physically to ascend Mt. Everest, there's also the option to enjoy its summit views by air. This comfy private helicopter tour of the world's most famous mountain delivers all the highlights of a trip to Everest in a mere four-hour flight. After an early breakfast and a transfer from Namche Bazaar (the last major town before the mountain), it's time to board the helicopter for a tour of the Himalaya.
This tour features much more than the sight of Everest. Passengers will be treated to aerial views of Ama Dablam (6,812 meters/22,349 feet), Thamserku (6,623 meters/21,729 feet), Kangtega (6,782 meters/22,250), Lhotse (8,516 meters/27,939 feet), Nuptse (7,861/25,790 feet), before landing at the famous Everest Base Camp for a quick photo opportunity. This is impressive in itself as the base camp sits at a whopping 5,380 meters/17,600 feet in altitude. Then it's time to hop back in the helicopter and fly all the way back to Kathmandu.
This fast-paced trip takes you up to Namche Bazaar, a traditional Sherpa village and unofficial capital of the Khumbu region. You'll pass through Sagarmatha National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—across suspension bridges, through alpine forests, and visit ancient Buddhist sites. The adventure ends with a helicopter tour of the snow-capped Himalayas and includes a stop at the base of the tallest mountain in the world: Mount Everest.
