Helicopter Pickup Locations Along the Kanchenjunga Trek
Lali Kharka to Kathmandu (2,220m)
Lali Kharka is one of the initial starting points of the Kanchenjunga trek and serves as a suitable helicopter landing site for those needing to return to Kathmandu early. The area has enough open space, and weather conditions here are generally favorable for takeoff. Whether it’s a planned exit or an unforeseen change of plans, Everest Sky Helicopter can safely lift you directly from Lali Kharka to Kathmandu in approximately 90 minutes.
Kande Bhanjyang to Kathmandu (2,190m)
Perched on a ridge with incredible Himalayan vistas, Kande Bhanjyang is another convenient pickup point. Trekkers who begin to feel fatigued or short on time by the early days of the trek often opt for a helicopter pickup from here. Our expert pilots can coordinate a smooth departure from this location, taking you across the eastern Himalayan belt straight to the capital city.
Phumphe Danda to Kathmandu (1,860m)
Phumphe Danda is a charming hillside village, and its relatively low elevation makes it a feasible site for helicopter landings. If weather deteriorates or if you wish to avoid the more strenuous parts of the trail ahead, Everest Sky Helicopter can arrange a swift and scenic flight back to Kathmandu from Phumphe Danda.
Yamphudin to Kathmandu (2,080m)
Yamphudin is one of the more populated stops along the Kanchenjunga trail, featuring a mix of traditional homes and terraced farmlands. This location is well-suited for both emergency evacuations and scheduled helicopter exits. The terrain is accommodating, and flights from here to Kathmandu take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, passing through stunning valleys and hills.
Tortong to Kathmandu (2,995m)
Nestled deep within the forested valleys, Tortong is often a resting point before ascending higher into alpine zones. If altitude, weather, or physical strain become a concern, this site provides a safe area for helicopter extraction. A flight from Tortong to Kathmandu offers a scenic descent from the subalpine zones down to the lowlands of eastern Nepal before landing in the city.
Ramche to Kathmandu (4,610m)
Ramche, situated just before Oktang and Yalung Base Camp, is a high-altitude location ideal for those looking to end their trek post-south base camp. The terrain near Ramche is clear enough for a helicopter to land, and our high-altitude trained pilots ensure a safe and steady takeoff back to Kathmandu. This route offers incredible aerial views of glaciers, icefalls, and towering peaks.
Oktang to Kathmandu (4,730m)
A dramatic and photogenic point on the trek, Oktang provides close-up views of Kanchenjunga’s southern face. For trekkers not continuing to the North Base Camp, a pickup from Oktang is a luxurious way to end the journey. The helicopter route from here to Kathmandu offers some of the most mesmerizing mountain visuals in the entire Himalaya.
Yalung Ri Base Camp to Kathmandu (4,840m)
Yalung Ri Base Camp sits among rock-strewn landscapes and glacial surroundings. A pickup from this high-altitude point is often required for trekkers feeling the effects of extreme altitude. Our helicopters are equipped with oxygen and flown by pilots experienced in rapid, high-elevation landings and takeoffs, ensuring your safe return to Kathmandu.
Tsheram (Cheram) to Kathmandu (3,800m)
sheram is a common acclimatization and rest point, making it an ideal location for trekkers needing a break or those choosing a shorter itinerary. Whether it’s for luxury or necessity, a flight from Tsheram back to Kathmandu is one of the most requested services on this trail.
Selele to Kathmandu (4,110m)
After crossing the challenging Mirgin La Pass, trekkers often reach Selele completely drained. This spot is strategically important for helicopter rescues and returns, particularly if weather conditions worsen. Pickup from Selele avoids the riskier descents ahead and offers a quick aerial route back to Kathmandu.
Ghunsa to Kathmandu (3,415m)
Ghunsa is a picturesque Sherpa village and one of the most accessible high-altitude settlements on the northern trail. Helicopter landings here are straightforward, making it a preferred point for pre-booked exits or emergency evacuations to Kathmandu.
Kambachen to Kathmandu (4,145m)
Kambachen is a crucial rest stop before reaching Lhonak and Pang Pema. High-altitude conditions and potential for rockslides make this area prone to last-minute changes in trekking plans. Everest Sky Helicopter frequently operates from here to bring trekkers safely back to Kathmandu.
Lhonak to Kathmandu (4,792m)
Lhonak’s open terrain and proximity to North Base Camp make it one of the last viable helicopter landing points before Pang Pema. Pickups from Lhonak are perfect for trekkers wanting to conclude their expedition before hitting the highest elevations. Flights from here to Kathmandu traverse vast glaciers and rugged Himalayan ridgelines.
Pang Pema (Kanchenjunga North Base Camp) to Kathmandu (5,143m)
This is the crown jewel of the Kanchenjunga trekking trail. A helicopter pickup from Pang Pema is the ultimate way to conclude your adventure in style. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime aerial journey back to Kathmandu, flying over the third-highest mountain in the world and a tapestry of Himalayan landscapes below.
Amjilosa to Kathmandu (2,498m)
Amjilosa is a scenic settlement with river access and grassy landings. It serves as a great midway helicopter extraction point during the return leg of the trek. Flights from Amjilosa to Kathmandu give passengers a great mix of hill scenery and snow-capped peaks.
Sakathum to Kathmandu (1,650m)
Located near the confluence of rivers and gorges, Sakathum offers open space ideal for helicopter landings. If you’re near the end of your trek and wish to avoid a lengthy road journey, a pickup from Sakathum is an efficient alternative to ground travel.
Chirwa to Kathmandu (1,185m)
Chirwa marks the final stretch of the Kanchenjunga trek and sits in the lush lower hills of eastern Nepal. A helicopter pickup from here lets you skip the bumpy vehicle transfer and head straight to Kathmandu in under two hours, offering a peaceful, scenic finale to your Himalayan adventure.