Phase 1: Early Morning Trek to Kalapatthar (Optional but Recommended)
- Start Time: Around 4:30 AM
- Trek Duration: 2 to 3 hours (from Gorakshep to Kalapatthar summit)
- Altitude: 5,545 meters (18,192 feet)
Begin your morning early to witness the surreal sunrise view over Mount Everest from Kalapatthar. This optional but highly recommended pre-flight hike is the final highlight of your trek. The trail is steep and challenging but offers the closest panoramic view of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori.
Note: The hike is self-guided or accompanied by your self. Helicopter boarding usually takes place once you descend slightly from the viewpoint or at a nearby helipad.
Phase 2: Helicopter Boarding at Kalapatthar (First Shuttle)
- Time: Approximately 7:30 – 8:30 AM (weather dependent)
- Flight Time to Lukla: 15–20 minutes
- Maximum Capacity: 3 passengers per shuttle
- Weight Limit: Maximum of 240 kg including baggage
Due to the high altitude and thin air at Kalapatthar, helicopters can only accommodate three passengers per flight. Everest Sky Helicopter will carefully coordinate group splits based on passenger weight to ensure safety. You’ll board the chopper from a nearby flat helipad zone close to Kalapatthar.
Important: Be ready to disclose the exact baggage weight during confirmation. Excess baggage will require a separate cargo shuttle.
Phase 3: Stopover at Lukla for Refueling
- Landing Site: Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla
- Ground Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (subject to weather)
Upon arrival in Lukla, the helicopter will land for refueling. During this layover, passengers can relax, stretch their legs, enjoy a hot drink at a nearby café, and soak in views of the bustling Lukla village. We will assist with logistics, passenger coordination, and safety checks.
Note: In cases of high air traffic or weather delays, the stopover may extend beyond one hour.
Phase 4: Lukla to Kathmandu Final Leg (Second Shuttle)
- Flight Duration: 45 to 60 minutes
- Maximum Capacity: 5 passengers (depending on weight distribution)
- Total Weight Limit: 350 – 500 kg
After refueling and regrouping, the helicopter departs from Lukla toward Kathmandu. Now at a lower altitude, the aircraft can safely accommodate up to five passengers. This portion of the flight offers incredible aerial views of the Himalayan foothills, remote villages, terraced fields, and the winding Dudh Koshi River.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Domestic Terminal), we will receive you and transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu.
Duration
2 to 3 hours flightActivity
Helicopter Shuttle Flight to Kathmandu