Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour - 1 Days
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Duration:
1 day -
Max Altitude:
5545m -
Difficulty Level:
Easy -
Destination:
Everest Base Camp -
Start/End:
Kathmandu -
Transportation:
Helicopter ,Car -
Best Season:
January to May & September to December
Trip Overview
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour in Nepal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It takes you deep into the heart of the incredible Himalayas, offering an exceptional aerial view of the world’s highest mountain. With your very first flight from Kathmandu, this magnificent adventure is all immersing, making you visualize all the spectacular landscapes of Nepal, including its lush valleys and terraced fields, before showing you the sight of amazing alpine terrain dotted by ice-capped peaks.
The Everest helicopter tour 1 Day includes flying above the historic Everest Base Camp, traversing the sight of the sweeping Khumbu Glacier, and landing at Kala Patthar, the well-known place with firsthand proximity views of Mount Everest and its giants.
Even beyond the visible aerial beauty, it involves some of the rarest fusions of cultural exposure and natural tranquility. For all of this, there is a short stop in Lukla, which actually lifts off into the heartland of the Sherpas, as well as the breakfast sprinkle at Syangboche, which serves breakfast under beautiful panoramic Himalayan views.
From glacial rivers to towering summits, the scenery changes continually to exhibit raw beauty in highland Nepal. Well, the Everest Helicopter Tour 1 Day is not just about going to the mountains; it is experiencing the mountains-from the crisp mountain air to the views that are awe-inspiring.
Where Does Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Take?
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour 1 Day is an unforgettable trip through unseen mouths of the Himalayas; offering, literally, a bird’s eye view of what is perhaps Nepal’s most iconic topographic landforms. It all begins when one flies from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to Mount Everest. Here, Kathmandu gradually fades as one climbs into deep green hills, terraced farmlands, and deep valleys. After a brief refueling stop at Lukla, the helicopter flies even higher and over beautiful Sherpa villages, glacial rivers, and alpine forests. This is where it offers amazing views of Everest Base Camp, the point where climbers prepare to conquer the tallest peak in the world.
The Tour dives into its maximum depth by landing at Kala Patthar, a viewpoint at the impressive height of 5,545 meters from where you get panorama views of Mount Everest and neighboring peaks like Lhotse and Nuptse. Once you’ve absorbed that stunning scenery, it’s on to Syangboche for a leisurely breakfast overlooking the most spectacular Himalayas. The Tour then retraces this gorgeous route in its return journey, allowing one last chance to soak up the majesty of these peaks and their rugged landscapes before it ends in Kathmandu.
Best Time To Go On Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour 1 Day
Spring Season [March to May]
Spring happens to be the best time of the year to take the Everest Helicopter Tour 1 Day since it is when the weather is usually at its near peak for high-altitude flights and sightseeing. Clear skies enable bright views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks, and the lower green valleys contrast beautifully against the snow-capped peaks. This season is also the season of blooming for rhododendrons that paint the hillsides and visually compound the surroundings’ beauty.
Moderate temperatures make spring travel easier, especially at high-altitude stops. At this time, the atmosphere is most stable, minimizing the chances of flight delays or cancellations. As crisp mountain air breezes swing through the colorful, lively setting, it would be the ideal time to travel all together in the splendor of the Everest region. Every corner, whether a peaceful village or a Kala Patthar scenic view, would find a beautiful moment flavored by the beneficial spring weather.
Autumn Season [September to November]
Autumn is another great time to undertake the Everest Helicopter Tour in Nepal. It has some of the clearest skies and most pristine weather. The monsoon rains have washed away what little dust and haze were present, and the air has an astonishingly fresh quality about it, providing visibility. This offers spectacular vistas of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks under golden sunlight touching their summits. The time of year changes and displays the landscape in extremely brilliant colors and becomes a place that really takes one back to the raw beauty of the Everest region.
The autumn temperature ranges: cool and very comfortable; this indeed assures the perfect flight and stoppage at altitude heights, like Kala Patthar and Syangboche. It is also the season of least wind and rain which helps in making the flights smoother and more predictable. This is the most lively time of the year because it includes great Nepalese festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, into the region’s cultural tapestry. This natural richness and all these cultural phenomena make autumn equally magical for this adventure.
Winter Season [December to February]
From December to February, the Everest helicopter tour 1 Day has a good chance of clear, beautiful visibility and snow-covered vistas, which continue to form thrilling images of the Himalayas. Conditions for flights during the morning are quite fine as they are almost always calm and quiet, owing to this season. Low tourist numbers will also make the perspective peaceful and personalized, which has special meanings when visiting key places like Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp, and Syangboche.
Winter splendor is added to this already fantastic appearance by fresh snow, setting the sun, and of course, the tour’s thrilling scintillation with winter sunrises. With all these elements rolled into one, it makes for an ideal last-minute luxury and serene way to experience Everest without trekking.
Preparation for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Permits and Regulations
For the Everest Helicopter Tour in Nepal, you must obtain two permits: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit costs NPR 3000 for international travelers and NPR 1000 for SAARC National. Similarly, Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit. will cost you NPR 3000 per person.
These permits can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or you can buy it directly at Sagarmatha national park area also after submitting required documents such as Travel Insurance, copies of photographs, visa, and passport.
What To Pack for Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
Clothing and Accessories
- Layered Clothing including a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm fleece or insulated jacket, and a windproof and waterproof outer layer.
- Comfortable Pants that are warm and breathable.
- Warm Hat and Gloves
- Sunglasses with UV Protection
- Scarf or Buff
- Sturdy Footwear ideally trekking or hiking boots, as the ground can be uneven or icy.
Gear and Personal Items
- A small backpack to carry your essentials like water, snacks, and extra layers.
- Camera or Smartphone to capture the breathtaking views.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm
- Water Bottle to stay hydrated.
- Personal Medications including any prescribed medications.
Physical Preparation
The luxurious Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour in Nepal does require some physical preparations as it takes you to a highly elevated region. Kala Patthar, for example, is a point that is situated at 5,645m, and the air and oxygen levels at such altitudes make it unfavorable for those who are unfit or unprepared. A good solution is to spend some days in Kathmandu prior to the tour to help the body acclimatize. Deep breathing exercises or yoga increases lung capacity and allows for better adaptation. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and smoking before the trip reduces susceptibility to altitude sickness.
Keeping the body hydrated and eating nutrient-rich food in balance is equally important. Hitting the medical consultations a step upfront, especially about the heart or lungs, is highly recommended. These little things will guarantee your full enjoyment of all the spectacular landscapes within the region of Everest while leaving behind all your worries about physical discomfort.
Everest Heli Tour Flight & Elevation Profile
| Flight Phase / Landmark | Elevation (m) | Elevation (ft) | Duration / Highlights |
| Departure Hub | Tribhuvan Domestic Airport (Kathmandu) | 1,400 m | 4,593 ft |
| Scenic Trans-Himalayan Flight | Kathmandu to Lukla (Tenzing-Norgay Airport) | 2,860 m | 9,383 ft |
| Khumbu Glacier & EBC Flyover | Over Everest Base Camp & Khumbu Icefall | 5,364 m | 17,598 ft |
| Kala Patthar Landing | Kala Patthar Viewpoint Helipad | 5,545 m | 18,192 ft |
| Hotel Everest View Landing | Syangboche (Hotel Everest View) | 3,880 m | 12,730 ft |
| Scenic Return Flight | Syangboche to Kathmandu (via Lukla) | 1,400 m | 4,593 ft |
Is the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour Your Next Great Adventure?
This 4 to 5-hour luxury flight is designed for travelers who want to experience the majesty of Mount Everest up close without the physical strain or 14-day time commitment of high-altitude trekking. Book this package if:
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You have limited vacation time in Nepal: You experience the ultimate Himalayan milestone—landing at Kala Patthar and having breakfast facing Everest—and return to your Kathmandu hotel before lunchtime.
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You want a family-friendly alpine journey for all ages: Perfect for senior citizens, families traveling with children, and travelers who cannot undertake multi-day treks over steep terrain.
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You want direct, close-range views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse: Standing on Kala Patthar (5,545m) puts you directly opposite the Southwest Face of Mt. Everest, providing the most iconic mountain panorama on Earth.
Why Choose Mountain Treks Nepal for Your Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour?
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Modern Airbus H125 Fleet & Veteran Pilots: We operate high-performance Airbus H125 (AS350 B3e) helicopters flown by captains with thousands of hours of high-altitude Himalayan mountain and rescue flight experience.
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Guaranteed Kala Patthar Landing & Weight Split Protocol: Above Pheriche/Dingboche (4,300m), thin air requires strict weight management. For groups of 4–5 passengers, we execute a seamless shuttle split (taking 2–3 passengers at a time to Kala Patthar) to ensure maximum safety and landing compliance.
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Breakfast at the World-Famous Hotel Everest View: We include a 30 to 45-minute stop at Hotel Everest View (3,880m) in Syangboche, recognized by the Guinness World Records, for breakfast with panoramic views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
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All-Inclusive Permits & Transparent Service: Mountain Treks Nepal manages your Sagarmatha National Park entry permits, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality fees, airport transfers, and passenger insurance with no hidden surcharges.
Conclusion
The Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour 1 Day is the most luxurious way to enjoy the adventure, beauty, and serenity offered by the Himalayas. Whether gazing from Kala Patthar into the void of the mighty Everest or having breakfast with a towering backdrop of mighty peaks, each moment divulges the supreme grandeur of nature. Best suited for any trekker who is time-constrained but wants to see the world’s highest mountain at close quarters, this really is the tour that continues to bring all three together with comfort, excitement, and awe. An unforgettable journey awaits here, uplifting one’s spirits but also sealing them in connection with the mighty Everest region.
Trip Highlights
- Overfly to the Mount Everest Base Camp, where you will witness the mountaineers who camp there before ascending Mt. Everest
- Outstanding view of the Himalayan range from a helicopter ride.
- Land at Kala Patthar (at the altitude of 5,545 meters)
- Excellent view of the highest mountain in the world Mt. Everest, and the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Phortse (3,950 m), Cho Oyu (8,210 m), etc
- Aerial views of lush forests, deep valleys, traditional villages, calm turquoise lakes, stunning glaciers, and raging rivers
- Fly over the famous Sagarmatha National park, a UNESCO world heritage site.
- Magnificent view of the Khumbu icefall
- Enjoy the delicious breakfast at the highest place hotel in the world- Everest View Hotel
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Detailed Itinerary
7:00 AM: Check-in at the Airport and Fly to Lukla
The day starts bright and early in your hotel in Kathmandu, after which you will find yourself at Tribhuvan International Airport to take off on a flight to Lukla. As the rotors fire up, anticipation in the atmosphere builds up for what really lies ahead. The 45-minute flight to Lukla is quite breathtaking, as Kathmandu Valley is slowly wiped off the view from the horizon, replaced by terraced fields, steep gorges, and emerald-green forests.
Breathtaking views transform dramatically as you gain altitude. The foothills of the Himalayas will be on view while the excitement builds as snow-capped peaks start to emerge far away. It is an unforgettable flight experience that shows the varied landscape of Nepal from lush-green plush countryside to alpine ruggedness. With each passing minute, you draw closer to the very heart of the Himalayas.
At 2860m above sea level, Lukla is an important little town and the entrance to Everest, most famous for Tenzing Norgay Airport. The exciting helicopter drop into this high-altitude center is only the beginning of greater things to come.
7:50 AM: Stopover at Lukla for Refueling
Once the helicopter lands at Lukla, you will be off-board from the chopper as it has a small stopping time of just 5–7 minutes to refuel. In the meantime, you can enjoy some fresh air from outside the helicopter as they refuel. Lukla is a very busy location and teems with trekkers and mountaineers alongside locals preparing or concluding their activities in the Everest area.
Such a moment takes the state of affairs into a radiant culture among the Sherpas, whose resilience and hospitality define the heartbeat of the Himalayas. Whether it is the colorful prayer flags waving in the air or the backdrop of the beautiful towering peaks region adds life to its nature’s richness along with the richness in the culture.
The stopover is small, but it will give you quite a nice opportunity to stretch and enjoy the super-beautiful scenery. Indeed, combining the mountains and the strategic importance of expediting operations, Lukla makes a great place to even just spend some time. And definitely cooler and much crisper air indicates an altitude yet to come.
8:00 AM: Helicopter Tour to Kalapathhar via Everest Base Camp
The flight takes about 25 minutes from Lukla to Kala Patthar via Everest Base Camp. This must be the most thrilling helicopter trip, as the sights beneath are even more intriguing. From the air, you can have beautiful sceneries of the ice carved rivers through the valleys and the jagged snowy peaks which also pierce through the skies. You also fly over the frozen lakes of the Khumbu region, green, beautiful villages and along alpine meadows as you explore them with adventurous passion.
The experience of flying over Everest Base Camp is rather iconic during the climbing seasons. As the peak climbing seasons come with a clear view of the surroundings, your helicopter tour becomes more attractive. Below, the images reveal the complex glacier areas of the moraine field and millions of colored tents scattered across the harsh landscape. It dazzles the fact of human ability in one of the toughest regions of the Earth.
Your next stop, Kalapathhar, is a high point from the lofty mountains at 5645 meters above sea level. Kala Patthar provides the most beautiful perspective of Mount Everest, with added epics like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori and the beautiful sunrise and sunset. It is also the world’s highest viewpoint. After today’s exploration, the aircraft transports you to the site for you to enjoy this majestic spectacle up close.
8:25 AM: Landing at Kala Patthar
You land at Kala Patthar via helicopter to have 10-15 minutes to delve into the beauty of the Himalayas. The fresh, crisp mountain air will greet you as you step onto this hallowed ground surrounded by some of the tallest on its planet. Mount Everest, 8,848 meters tall, cuts the skyline, leaving all its viewers gaping at its magnificence.
This place offers an unmatched view of the Everest massif, an experience that few in this world can boast of. The sunlight hits the top of the mountains under the morning light, and that really creates a surreal ambience. The panorama represents the vastness of the Himalayas and humbles one before the power and grandeur of a world outside our own.
Most trekker would describe their stay at Kala Patthar as hardly much more than a pilgrimage to such places, an opportunity to come into contact with that very raw beauty of the planet. It is short so you would hardly feel the altitude, but just long enough to fill the heart with memories that last a lifetime. Make sure you document this miracle of time through pictures before entering back into the helicopter.
8:40 AM: Fly to Syangboche for Breakfast
Another segment of the Everest Helicopter Tour includes a 15-minute flight to Syangboche, a lovely little settlement known for its high-altitude airport. The aerial path is full of stunning landscapes, glacial rivers, rugged cliffs, and traditional Sherpa settlements scattered all over the Khumbu region. The serene beauty of this haven will immediately capture your attention as the helicopter descends into Syangboche.
At an altitude of 3780m,Everest views Hotel, Syangboche is the perfect spot for breakfast with the mountains surrounding you. From this airstrip, you can see Mount Everest, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam, all at their very best. With a little of that gentle morning light filtering across the snow-topped peaks, this provides a perfect setting for this much-welcomed break.
This leg of the journey allows you to experience the scope of the greatness of the Himalayas. Whether you’re looking beyond the horizon or photographing the beautiful scenery, the time spent in Syangboche is surely a treat for all the senses.
8:55 AM: Breakfast with Himalayan Scenery
When at Everest Views Hotel ,Syangboche, the breakfasts ring hollow beside the longest mountains in the world. The cool natural air makes your stay more exciting. While you enjoy your morning breakfast with Himalayan Coffee, the beauty of Everest and its neighboring peaks adds glamour.
The view from Syangboche is unbeatable; they seem so nearby as if you could almost reach out to them. Watching clouds roll across the valleys with the sun in the morning leaves the peace and contentment to be found only in the Himalayas. This is kind of a 30-40 minute break not just to refuel but also to savor the very soul of the Everest region.
10:00 AM: Fly Back to Kathmandu via Lukla
The last leg of your journey is a flight that lasts one hour and ten minutes back to Kathmandu. As the sound of the helicopter soaring the Himalayas for the last time, you will get yet another chance to soak the beauty of this pristine region from above. The return journey gives a fresh perception as, once again, you trace the route over those fabulous landscapes.
An intervening touch of Lukla for head-to-head on fuel will allow one to bid farewell to the Everest region. These fruitful forests and hills roll into this uneven vastness known as Kathmandu.
It brings back mesmerizing memories and an appreciation of the Himalayas within you after you have reached Kathmandu. This is an experience where luxury meets nature and adventure, giving an inside view of the most remote and beautiful places on the planet.
Trip Includes
- MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Witness fantastic Himalayan peaks, lakes and glaciers
- HELICOPTER TOUR
Helicopter tour to Kathmandu – Lukla-Everest Base Camp and Kalapattar – Everest View Hotel and return.
- LANDING TIME IN KALAPATHHER
10/15 minutes stop at Kalapattar for sightseeing.
- BREAKFAST WITH WORLD-CLASS SCENERY
30/40 minutes stop for breakfast at Everest View Hotel
Trip Excludes
- NATIONAL PARK ENTRY PERMIT
Everest National park fees are USD 45 (NPR 5500) per person- Must be in Cash – pay locally in the Mountain
- Airport tax
- PERSONAL EXPENSES
Items of a personal nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everest Helicopter Tour can be completed within a day (4 to 5 hours) with Mountain Treks Nepal. It includes a flight to Lukla and then to Kala Patthar, retracing back to Syangboche and then to Kathmandu.
Permits like Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card are required.
Of course you should. Since this tour takes you to high altitude locations such as Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp, your preparation with altitude change is very crucial.
You can book this tour through our website or just give us a call or email us to book your seat for this adventurous journey.
The highest landing point is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (18,192 feet), located directly opposite Mount Everest and above Everest Base Camp (5,364m).
Due to the towering shoulder of Mt. Nuptse, the summit of Mount Everest is not visible directly from Everest Base Camp itself. Kala Patthar (5,545m) provides the world's most famous, unobstructed panoramic viewpoint of Everest's summit, the Khumbu Icefall, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
Ground time at Kala Patthar is strictly limited to 10 to 15 minutes. This prevents the onset of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) from sudden high-altitude exposure and ensures the helicopter engine remains operational in thin air.
Because total time above 5,000 meters is kept to 10–15 minutes before descending to Hotel Everest View (3,880m), serious AMS is extremely rare. Some passengers may feel slight lightheadedness or breathlessness. Emergency medical oxygen cylinders are carried on board all flights.
Due to low air density above 4,300m, civil aviation safety rules mandate a maximum payload limit of approximately 220–250 kg for landing at Kala Patthar. If a flight carries 4 to 5 passengers (totaling over 250 kg), the helicopter stops at Pheriche/Syangboche and shuttles passengers to Kala Patthar in two quick groups (2–3 people per shuttle).
You will see close-up panoramas of Mt. Everest (8,848.86m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), Cho Oyu (8,210m), Pumori (7,161m), Thamserku, and Kangtega.
Private Charter: You book the entire 5-seat helicopter exclusively for your party, offering customized departure times and maximum privacy.
Group Joining: Individual solo travelers or couples share the 5-passenger flight with other travelers to split costs.
Mountain Treks Nepal handles all mandatory permits:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3,000 / ~USD 23)
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (NPR 3,000 / ~USD 23)
Yes. The Everest Helicopter Tour is completely non-strenuous and suitable for travelers of all ages, including elderly family members and children.
The helicopter stops at Hotel Everest View in Syangboche for 30 to 45 minutes. A hot breakfast (eggs, toast, pancakes, Himalayan coffee, or tea) can be enjoyed on the open terrace overlooking Mt. Everest and Ama Dablam (included in private luxury packages or available à la carte).
Since this is a day return flight, passengers only need a small daypack (up to 5 kg) containing a camera, extra warm layers, personal medications, and water. Large suitcases are left securely in the luggage storage of your Kathmandu hotel.
Maurice
April 3, 2024 at 10:13 amTop of the world Wih Mountan treks Neepal
Above the Himalayas with Mountain Treks Nepal’s Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour was an unforgettable experience. Witnessing the majestic peaks of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse from above was awe-inspiring. The convenience of the helicopter allowed us to witness this wonder in a single day, which wouldn’t have been possible with a trek. The Mountain Treks Nepal team was fantastic Specially Mr. Bharat – professional, informative, and ensured a smooth operation. A particular highlight was enjoying a delicious breakfast at the Everest View Hotel with Everest as our backdrop. This tour is a must for anyone seeking a breathtaking glimpse of the Himalayas!”
Andrew
March 30, 2024 at 2:10 amLife time Experience thanks Bharat
“Soaring above the Himalayas on Mountain Treks Nepal’s Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour was an unforgettable experience. Witnessing the grandeur of Everest from above was breathtaking. The team at Mountain Treks Nepal was incredibly professional, from the clear pre-tour communication to the smooth execution on the day of the flight. Our pilot expertly navigated the stunning landscape, and the delicious breakfast at the Everest View Hotel was a delightful bonus. The opportunity to land at Kala Patthar and take in the panoramic views truly made this a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I highly recommend this tour to anyone seeking a magical journey to the heart of the Himalayas. Mountain Treks Nepal’s attention to detail and genuine care made this an exceptional adventure.”
Morice
March 25, 2024 at 10:15 amTrip to EBC by Helicopter
“Soaring above the Himalayas on Mountain Treks Nepal’s Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour was an experience unlike any other. Witnessing the world’s tallest peak, Everest, from a bird’s-eye view was breathtaking. The convenience of the helicopter allowed us to witness this natural wonder in a single day, maximizing our limited time in Nepal. Mountain Treks Nepal’s organization was impeccable, from the seamless pick-up to the informative guide. A personal highlight was our breakfast stop at the Everest View Hotel, offering stunning panoramas while enjoying a delicious meal. This tour is a must for anyone seeking an unforgettable Himalayan adventure!”
Emma
October 5, 2023 at 1:27 pmBest trip Ever
The view was so…amazing and we enjoy a lot took many photos incredible experience must try with your friends and family.
Thank you for amazing time.
julian auther
April 8, 2023 at 12:14 pmHad the trip and day of my life!
Did the Helicopter Sight tour with Mountain treks Nepal and Bharat arranged all so very well.
Before I had so many questions regarding the whole thing and how it was organized, and he willingly helped med with all with the most friendly and professional attitude.
Then pilot was great also .
Thank You Guys !!
loranzo Z
December 9, 2022 at 1:37 pmHelicopter tour with MTN
Everest base camp helicopter tour with Mountain treks nepal was so cool. The views was awesome and they made the tour
My family so happy with this tour !
Thank you Mountain treks nepal and Mr. Bharat >