Food, Water & Toilets
Food There will be a set breakfast as per the menu of the hotel. Kindly let us know ahead if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions so we can make necessary arrangements.
Water We recommend carrying a bottle of water as we will not stop in many places during the trip. You can buy bottled water at the airport and at the hotel for a refill if needed.
Snacks to Carry As we can never predict the timings, breakfast can sometimes be late. We recommend carrying some snacks, or having a light breakfast before getting picked for the airport in the morning.
The only shops you will find are at Kathmandu Airport so make sure you buy anything that you need beforehand.
Toilets You’ll find toilets at Kathmandu Airport and the hotel you will stop for breakfast.
Transportation
Airport transfers to and from your residence will be provided on a reserved vehicle.
Crew
There will not be a guide accompanying during the Heli trip. However, Von Kathmandu’s representative will coordinate with you and facilitate airport pickup from your residence and drop you off after you return from the trip.
Once you reach the airport, an airline representative will be there to guide you. They’ll provide you with the boarding passes and take care of everything from that point onwards. We are available on whatsapp for assistance at all times.
Money
Extra Costs to Expect The price you pay includes all the costs, and there are no hidden fees. However, it is good to keep in mind that you may want to bring some extra cash for snacks, water, and beverages at the airport, especially if you get hungry during the waiting hours.
Currency It is preferred to use the local currency, Nepali rupee, especially at airport shops as only accept rupees for purchases.
ATMs and Credit Cards In most areas outside the cities, cash is the more reliable and widely accepted payment method. Additionally, many establishments may charge an extra 3-4% transaction fee on top of the amount if you choose to pay by card. As for ATMs, you will come across one at the airport.
Tipping Tipping is not mandatory, but if you’re satisfied with the service, you’re welcome to show your appreciation by tipping the driver and company representative. As for the pilot, tipping is generally not necessary, as they are already well compensated for their professional services.
Booking & Schedule
Flight Time The heli flights are scheduled for mornings as mountain winds get fierce in the afternoon. The airport reporting times are generally 5:30 am and 7:30 am (the earlier, the better). The exact takeoff time varies on weather and visibility.
The airport pick-up time and details will be communicated one day before the flight.
Tentative Duration If all goes well, the total time from Kathmandu to Kathmandu takes around 3.5-5 hours. Visibility, wind conditions, and air traffic are common factors that can cause delays. The helicopters also prioritize rescue operations and emergencies. In short, patience is the key. We recommend not having any plans for early afternoons.
Health & Safety
Altitude Sickness The highest altitude we’ll get to during our journey is around 5,400m/17,720ft at Kalapathhar. It’s a quick stop, only 5-10 minutes for taking photos and soaking the view in. We will also stop for breakfast at Hotel Everest View (3880m /12,730ft) for up to an hour.
One might feel the altitude a little but you will not need a Diamox or any other medication for altitude sickness. The craft is also equipped with an oxygen cylinder and first aid kit. In case of emergency, you will be flown down to the lower elevation so you are in safe hands.
Safety Precautions Listen to the pilot’s instructions and follow the safety briefing carefully. Secure loose items like hats and scarves to avoid any flying mishaps. Stay away from the tail side when approaching the aircraft. Always wear your seatbelt and keep movement to a minimum during the flight. Remember, no smoking inside the cabin! If you ever feel uneasy, don’t hesitate to talk to the pilot.
Pilot Qualification All the pilots flying in high elevations are certified, and highly qualified with a minimum of 1,000 flying hours.
Insurance We recommend having insurance that covers medical bills and evacuation costs whenever you travel in Nepal.
Can Kids Join This Tour? Helicopter tours are suitable for people of all ages so yes, you can bring your kids on a heli tour.
About Heli
Model and Features Most helicopters that fly in Nepal are Eurocopter AS50 Ecureuil. These powerful vessels are designed for transportation and rescue operations at high elevations. They are non-pressurized.
Carrying Capacity Helicopter seats 1 pilot + 5 passengers (4 back, 1 front). At high elevations above 5,000m (16,400ft), low air pressure restricts lift to 3 passengers at once. Flights with >3 passengers need two shuttles.
Equipment You will be provided a headset to communicate and listen to the pilot’s instructions during the flight. The aircraft is also equipped with oxygen cylinders and a medic kit.
Weather
Average Temperature At the highest landing point, the temperature can easily go below freezing point (up to -5°C/23°F in peak winter). It is advised to dress in layers so you can put on and take off your down jacket, hat, and gloves easily.
Best Time to Go October to May is the best time to go on a Helicopter trip to the mountains with clear skies and stunning mountain views.
Weather Pattern Weather in the mountains can be quite unpredictable, no matter the season. Mornings are usually clear and calm, but as the day progresses, the winds pick up, and clouds start rolling in. That’s why most flights and activities take place only in the mornings when the weather is more stable.
Chances of Flight Cancellation If the weather isn’t clear and visibility is low on the day of your flight, we’ll postpone the flight to another day at no extra cost to you. And in case we have to cancel the flight for any reason, you’ll receive a full refund.
Emergency & Communication
Cell Network The local cell reception might occasionally connect at some prominent stops, but it is unreliable. You will also lose connectivity while flying and in high elevations.
Internet The Ncell and NTC data works fine in places with the cell connectivity.
Emergency Contacts Von Kathmandu will provide a list of emergency contacts (including company representative, nearest clinic/hospital, law enforcement agency, etc) before your trip.
