ABC Trek with Heli Return: The Best Short Adventure in Nepal

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is one of the classic, popular, and most gratifying trekking journeys in Nepal. A journey of exotic mountain scenery, rich Gurung and Magar culture, lush rhododendron forests, the spectacular amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary, combined with breathtaking views of one of the most magnificent mountain ranges in the world, this trek can well be described as a once in a lifetime experience. Coming back by an exciting helicopter ride, the Annapurna base camp trek provides great views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and other soaring mountains, and therefore, is the ideal trek to consider for those travelers who like adventures and also amazingly beautiful scenery.

Our well-designed Annapurna base camp trek and helicopter back gives you the charm of the Himalaya within 12 days. It will take you past glittering streams, rich forests, and crashing waterfalls to find yourself at the foot of one of the highest mountains in the world. Or rather than reliving the long climb down, a spectacular helicopter flight returns you, making your experience a perfect mixture of work, beauty, and comfort. 

Your entry point will be Kathmandu, where you will see a guided tour of Kathmandu, after which you will proceed to Pokhara by air. It is the location, where the gradual ascent of the trek, with the landscape beauty of the village with picturesque locations, like Ulleri, Ghorepani, Chuile, Sinuwa, and Deurali, etc., is worth experiencing. The trek passes through rhododendron forests, hills, and cascading streams until you finally reach a popular Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) nested between tall Himalayan mountains.

You will not have to go back to Pokhara on the same path on foot, as you will fly back by a helicopter and have a scenic route instead. This is a spectacular flight where the passengers get an aerial view of the Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and even the actual paths you have walked on - a spectacular conclusion to a trek. This then will be the last stage of making a journey that has been a mixture of cultural exploration and natural beauty, and modern comfort, before you fly out of Pokhara to Kathmandu after a relaxing evening in Pokhara.

It is not a mere trek leading to 4,130 meters at the base of Annapurna I (the 10th-tallest mountain on earth). It is about eating the wood fire cooked dal bhat in a teahouse, exchanging greetings with smiling grandmothers who weave wool, listening to the sound of roaring Modi Khola below you, and the ultimate experience, flying like a Himalayan bird in a helicopter over the snow peaks.

However, unlike the Everest Base Camp walk, which requires additional days and rehearsing because of the higher freezing point, the Annapurna Base Camp walk is shorter, more popular, less extreme to the body, and not so difficult to achieve, but no less dramatic. This configuration of helicopter gain/loss makes it the perfect option, especially for those who would like to use part of their trekking experience with a luxurious, time-saving, and scenic escape.

We at Nepal Outdoor Expeditions are thrilled to offer this well planned Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return itinerary, which is tailored to make memories that will last forever. Our classic Annapurna base camp package is also available to travelers wishing to make the full trek on foot without the helicopter ride option.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return can be booked for 2025 and 2026 from Nepal Outdoor Expeditions, and the itinerary will be modified as per your budget, time, and fitness capabilities. Any questions, or to sign up, contact us whenever you like with more information about this tour, you will not forget in Himalayas.

An overview Route summary from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp.

Your Annapuran base camp trek with helicopter flyout begins with your arrival in Nepal, at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. The minute you arrive at the airport, our staff members will be able to meet you and take you to a hotel. The next day, we shall visit the Kathmandu Valley and see the places listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Basantapur Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar, and Bouddha Stupa.

Afterward, in the evening, we will fly to Pokhara and the journey will take place on a Flight that will take approximately 25 minutes. On the following day, we will have an excursion drive Pokhara to Nayapul. Nayapul to Ulleri will be our trekking route the same day. We will trek through villages, Ghandruk, Ghorepani, Chuile, Sinuwa, and Deurali. These villages will provide you with a slight glimpse of what the everyday lives of the people in the Himalayas are like. It is a perfect way you communicate and learn their culture.

 Lastly, on the 8th day of your journey, you will trek to Annapurna base camp via Deurali, and the route takes you through Machhapuchhre base camp. We will be overdue to take a helicopter flight at Annapurna base camp to Pokhara, which leads to retracing the trails treaded so far. We will fly return to Kathmandu, ending our wonderful trip to the Himalaya.

Why Choose the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek with helicopter return is a truly special blend of adventure, culture, and comfort. This trek is one of the highly demanded trekking trails in Nepal. By traversing dense rhododendron woodlands, rocky stone steps, and Gurung- and Magar village communities, you will have a chance to experience the real Nepal hospitality, in friendly doles and accepting tea shops, and in the wholesome food and undisturbed serenity of the village life. The hike to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) will bring you the most beautiful sunrises over Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna summits that are well worth the whole trip.

Coming back, it is not a downhill walk that takes too much time and might be quite painful; you get back into a helicopter and fly back to Pokhara, so your down process becomes a truly luxurious and painless process. Not only is such a flying adventure time-saving, but it also provides you with a spectacular bird eye view of the Annapurna Sanctuary, snowcapped mountains, glaciers, and valleys you have walked through. Helicopter back means you can descend comfortably without wearing your feet out, so trek it exactly the way it is a perfect adventure, relaxed mix with luxury, a lifetime experience to do something in the Himalaya, not just the exhilaration of trekking but the luxury of contemporary comfort.

Perfect Time to Trek Annapurna Base Camp with Helicopter Return

This trekking route is open throughout the year, with the best time being spring (March-April-May) and autumn (September-October-November).

 In spring, the colorful rhododendron flowers, waterfalls are jovial, and the temperature is moderate, and a pleasure to walk the trails. The views of the sunrise and sunset over mountains such as Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South are equally splendid, with great visibility in the skies.

Trekking is particularly popular in the autumn, when weather conditions are stable, there are no rainy days, and the view of the mountains is crisp. The sky is clear after the monsoons, making it most panoramic to take photographs and view sightseeing.

 Winter is a snowy wonderland (some very cold higher up), but winter is very cold (very, very cold). With lush green and misty mornings, though wet, slippery, and leech-prone, summer (the monsoon season) also has all-season trails. Selecting the correct season will mean that you get a good trek as well as a helicopter ride back with incredible Himalayan views.

Difficulty Level

• This hike can be termed as moderate. It can be completed by any person of decent fitness and with the determination to walk 5-7 hours/day.

• Max. elevation: 4,130m (ABC)

• Difficulties: lots of stair climbing, altitude gain, and there is the chance of mild altitude sickness.

• Rewards: one of the loveliest panoramas of the Himalaya on the planet.

• Helicopter back also prevents the straining of knees and reduces 3-4 days of walking.

Trekking Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp 

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS ) card are the two must have permits for trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp. These permits are necessary in order to protect you and allow the maintenance of the beautiful Annapurna region. We have factored in the permit fees in our package, and our team will provide all the documentation so you can simply enjoy your trekking experience.

One should take extra care of these permits to keep safe because authorities can check them at various checkpoints along the trail. We suggest you to keep them in a pocket or pouch, and store a photocopy as an upper backup. Through these easy steps, you will be able to enjoy the scenery, wonderful villages, and amazing Himalaya adventure, icy mountains, to the fullest.

12-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu arrival

Fly to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, where you will be received by our team and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, spend some leisure time acclimatizing with some trek briefing sessions about your upcoming ABC journey.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Elevation: 1,350 meters (4,430 ft)

Transport: Airport pickup by private vehicle 

Accommodation: 3 star or similar hotel in Kathmandu

Things to remember: Take a break and relax after the flight, Trek Briefing.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Visit the beautiful culture of Kathmandu Valley. Explore Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Squares, and feel the spiritual and historical pulse of Nepal. 

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Transportation: Sightseeing using a private vehicle. Short walk around the historical places. Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, Patan/ Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Day 3: Fly to Pokhara

Fly to Pokhara in a very scenic flight with Himalayan views on your right-hand windows of the aircraft. Arrive at your lakeside hotel and visit the sightseeing area, Phewa Lake, local shops, and cafes of this city. Overnight at Pokhara.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Elevation: 820 meters (2,690 ft)

Transportation: 25 minutes domestic flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara

Accommodation: Lakeside Hotel, Pokhara

Highlights: Phewa Lake, mountain scenery, and relaxation on the shores of the lake.

Day 4: Nayapul and Trek to Ulleri

On the fourth day of your Annapurna base camp trek with heli return, we will take a drive to Nayapul and begin to trek through forests, rivers, and terraced crops of Pokhara. Arrive in Ulleri, known for stone stairways. Sleep in a snug teahouse.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included

Elevation: Nayapul 1,070 m, 2070 Ulleri

Distance /Time: 11 km / 6-7 hours of trekking

Transportation: 1.52 hours personal drive to Nayapul

Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge (Ulleri)

Highlights: Terraced fields and rivers, first trekking day

Day 5: Hike, Ulleri to Ghorepani

Travel through flowering rhododendron woods and local villages, taking you through the true Gurung and Magar culture. Ghorepani provides unique panoramic scenes and a quiet stay at night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are provided

Elevation: Ulleri 2070 m up to Ghorepani 2860 m

Distance/Time: 10 km (6-7 hours of trekking)

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Ghorepani

Highlights: Rhododendron forests, mountain views, and local villages.

Day 6: Sunrise at Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani

Be up early to take a spectacular Poon Hill sunrise and view Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Walk across forests and rivulets to Tadapani, where the serenity of the Himalayas smacks you.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are provided

Elevation: Ghorepani 2860m - Poon Hill 3210m - Tadapani 2630m

Distance /Time: 10 km / 6-7 hrs. Trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Tadapani

Highlights: Good vistas of sunrise on the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri Mountains, forested areas.

Day 7: Tadapani to Sinuwa/Deurali trek

Spend several days trekking through bamboo forests and down little waterfalls as well as finding out more about the remote villages and the people living there. Overnight in Sinuwa or Deurali.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are provided

Elevation: Tadapani 2,630 m/ Sinuwa 2,340 m / Deurali 3,230 m

Distance/Time: 10km / 5-6hours trekking

Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Sinuwa or Deurali

Highlights: Bamboo forests, waterfalls, and cultural interactions

Day 8: Hike to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.

Trek the Annapurna Sanctuary, trekking to Machhapuchhre Base Camp on to Annapurna Base Camp. The view of panoramic Annapurna I, Hiunchuli and Gangapurna can be celebrated in ABC.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are provided

Elevation: Deurali 3,230 m to Machhapuchhre Base Camp 3,700 m to Annapurna Base Camp 4,130 m

Distance/Time: 12 km / 6-7 hours of trekking

Accommodation: Lodges at ABC

Highlights: Annapurna Sanctuary, glaciers, Himalayan sunset.

Day 9: Fly to Pokhara by helicopter (Annapurna Base Camp)

Take a flight in a helicopter to glamorously land in Pokhara. Hold your breath while looking at the spectacular views of the Annapurna Mountains, glaciers, and the trackways. Avoid downhill knee-straining trekking and be pampered with style.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Elevation: 4,130m (ABC) to 820m (Pokhara)

Distance/Time: Helicopter (aerial) transport (25-30 min)

Accommodation: Hotel by the lake in Pokhara

Highlights: Annapurna Massif view with a helicopter, a luxury experience.

Day 10: Sightseeing in Pokhara

See as much as possible of the main sites of Pokhara, such as Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and Sarangkot to view the sunrise. There is optional boating on the lake and relaxing in the lakeside atmosphere.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Elevation: Through Base Elevation: 820 m / 2,690 ft

Sightseeing: by own arrangement

Accommodation: Hotel by the lake in Pokhara

Highlights: Phewa Lake, the waterfall called the Davis Falls, Gupteshwore cave, and the sunrise view of Sarangkot.

Day 11: Kathmandu

Take a morning flight to Kathmandu. Spend the day going shopping or visiting the majestic streets of Thamel. The dinner on the last day will be a farewell dinner where you will share a story of the Himalayan expedition.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Elevation: 820 m -1,350 m

Transportation: National Flight (approx. 25 minutes)

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Highlights: You may do shopping, farewell dinner.

Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu (TIA)

Have breakfast and then transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport to take your flight. Bid adieu with memories you will never forget of the Annapurna Base Camp trek and the luxurious helicopter ride out experience.

Meals: Breakfast included

Elevation: 1,350 m/ 4,430 ft.

Transportation: Airport transfer by private vehicle

Highlights: Departure, Last Memories.

Cost, Departures, and Availability for the ABC trek with Helicopter Return

The Annapurna base camp trek via helicopter varies in price on average between USD 1,500 and USD 2,200 per person in base cost. The exact cost varies depending on the timing of the year, the number of people and the service you qualify for the trekking package will have provision of trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS), knowledgeable guides and porters, accommodations in mountain lodges (tea houses), all meals during the trek and the helicopter ride at Annapurna base back to Pokhara. The specialist activity packages will involve additional services such as airport transfers, Kathmandu and Pokhara accommodations in the city hotels, transport to places in privacy, which would increase the cost by a few dollars.

Estimated Cost Range:

Standard Group Trek Package: 1,500 to 1,700(USD) per person

Private Trek with Luxury Stays: 1,800 to  2,200( USD) per person

Helicopter only Day Trip (Non trekkers): 400 to 600(USD) per person on a shared basis.

Package Includes

• Domestic Flights and Helicopter return

• Airport pick-up & drop-off

• All trekking permits (TIMS & ACAP)

• Accommodation in tea houses/lodges

• Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide

• Porter service

• Meals during the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner).

Package Excludes

• International flight & Nepal visa

• Personal expenses & travel insurance

• Personal belongings and gear.

• Drinks whatsoever (tea, coffee, water, hot water, etc), and bar bills of any kind (alcoholic beverages)

• Tips for guide/porter.

Packing Tips

Clothing: base layers, insulating jacket, waterproof shell, trekking trousers, T-shirts, fleece/wool sweater, sun hat, beanie, and gloves.

Footwear: A pair of comfortable trekking shoes and an extra pair of hiking socks, as well as sandals to wear at camp.

Gear and Accessories: sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, trekking poles, headlamps, dry sweat towel, mobile chargers, and power bank.

Personal Components: Passport, permits, local currency cash, toiletry kit and prescription medications, and travel insurance.

Key Tips: ABC Trek with Helicopter Return

1. Pack the things necessary as per the climate of the spot on the basis of the weather forecast.

2. Be alert to the atmosphere. Ensure that you have a weather update before you depart for trekking.

3. In case you are going out on a trek during the monsoon season, take adequate rain cover and a waterproof covering for your backpack.

4. Go easy. Move slowly and do not hurry. You can injure yourself when traveling fast.

5. Stay hydrated by taking water frequently to prevent the effects of altitude. Limit your consumption of alcohol, as it will cause you to be dehydrated when out in the wild.

6. Practice your possessions.

7. If anything bad happens, like feeling unwell, altitude sickness, or simply needing advice, always ask our guide. They will guide, handle the situations, and keep you safe.

8. Ensure that you carry a safety and medical guide pack.

9. Respect Locals and Culture: Learn and interact with people of the village, go to local teahouses, and experience the Nepali hospitality.

10. Book well in advance in case you need to hike to Annapurna Base Camp. Booking early will save you a lot of hassles on flights, hotels, and permits, mostly during the peak seasons (spring and autumn).

11. When trekking, take short breaks to refresh oneself.

Final Thoughts

The Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Return Trek is not exactly a trek or an all-out luxury. It is all about a balance - through the trails shepherds and other villagers have travelled on centuries ago, and then in the skies looking down to a once in a lifetime view. 

Where Everest is about grandness, Annapurna is about closeness. The sanctuary is the feeling of a secret bowl of snow and silence, as mountains encircle you, and you can see everywhere. And on the day the helicopter flies you out of this hidden realm, you know that you have encountered a Himalayan adventure of the Nepali heart. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the level of difficulty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?

ABC trek is a moderate trek. There are no strict criteria for a professional mountaineer's requirements, but it is, however, essential to be reasonably fit and walk around 56 hours a day across mountainous routes. It becomes a lot easier when using a helicopter return since you do not have to trek the long downhill tracks that normally result in knee and leg pain. This is ideal as many trekkers who are worried about the energy-consuming journey back turn to this. On the way up, you still have the full trekking experience, but conserve yourself going downhill.

2. What is the time frame of the trek?

This trek usually takes 9 to 12 days, although your pace, or the specific plan you follow, will vary it slightly. You hike to the base camp of Annapurna and visit such villages as Ghorepani, Sinuwa, and Deural,i and, instead of returning on foot in the same path, you fly by helicopter to Pokhara. This saves a couple of days off the trip and, at the same time, makes you experience everything in the journey.

3. What is the highest point at which we get on this hike?

The peak of the hike is Annapurna Base Camp, 4,130 meters (13,550 ft). This altitude is sufficient to cause certain altitude effects, such as shortness of breath or headaches in certain trekkers, but is lower than in the Everest Base Camp and thus, in general, not very difficult to acclimatize.

4. Do I have to have trekking experience?

No past trekking experience required to do this trek. Annapurna Base Camp is amongst the treks undertaken by many first-time trekkers since it is a challenging trek, which, however, is within reach. The helicopter-return option is even less demanding because there is no long descent. Even though the leisure before your tour is non-invasive, some simple fitness training will make your hike pleasant.

5. At what is the best season to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek and helicopter back?

Spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) are considered to be the best times. Around these months, the skies are mostly clear, the temperature is not too hot or too cold, and you can get beautiful views of blooming forests of rhododendron during spring or clear mountain views during autumn. Winter can be an option, but it will be colder, and monsoon months (June, May, August) can experience heavy rain and leeches on the trail.

6. What type of accommodation can you find on the trek?

You will be accommodated in mountain houses known as tea houses that are built in a traditional style. They are plain, though comfortable, guesthouses, which are operated by local families. Simple accommodations include twin beds, warm duvets, and bathrooms that are shared bathrooms. Wi-Fi and hot showers, at an additional fee, are also available in some places. In this manner, you not only get rest but also get the feel of the warm hospitality of the Nepalese mountaineers.

7. What will be available as food in winter during the trek?

There is a lot of food to be found here, ranging from traditional Nepalese food such as Dal bhat (rice, lentil, and vegetables) to noodles, pasta, fried rice, momo (dumplings), and even pancakes. At higher altitudes, the menu is limited, but food is still wholesome and substantial. Most trekkers opt to eat a vegetarian diet because it is less likely to upset the stomach in remote locations.

8. Is the flight back in the helicopter to Annapurna Base Camp safe?

The helicopter's return is quite safe. Those flying in this area are highly trained and experienced pilots in how to fly in the Himalayas. Helicopters are subject to good weather conditions. Moreover, the mountainous panorama of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, and green valleys is what you will not forget in a lifetime.

9. Will I develop altitude sickness?

Although the altitude at Annapurna Base Camp is relatively safe as compared to other treks, a few trekkers can experience some mild effects such as headaches and shortness of breath. To help your body adjust, walk slowly and drink plenty of water, and try to spend the nights at villages below by the time you reach the base camp. The helicopter return is also an option for emergency evacuation in case of his coming out with any kind of serious symptoms.

10. What is the cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Helicopter Return?

This may differ in packages, season, and services. On average, it costs between USD 1500 to 2000 per person. This is normally accompanied by the permits, guides, porters, homestay, and the helicopter ride. Most trekkers consider it worth the amount of money saved by the time and effort.

11. Should I hire a guide for this trek?

Yes, it is much better to hire a guide and, in certain instances, it is compulsory according to the Nepali trekking laws. Not only does a guide make you safe, but our guide also makes your trip more valuable with local culture, stories about the mountains, and local history. They even assist in getting accommodation and food on your path, thus your trek is stress-free.

12. In which trek permission is required?

Your line of action will require two permits:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS Card)

The Nepal Outdoor Expeditions team will organize these before you get underway.

13. What is the weather condition of Winter during the trek?

The weather is dependent on the season. The warm, crisp weather of spring and autumn, bright, clear skies, and temperate weather (10 to 20 °C during the day, colder at night). The winter can be as low as freezing, and the summer is rainy. Mountaintop mornings and evenings are crisp all through the year, and warm clothing is always required.

14. What is the packing required for this trek?

Do light packing but sensibly: trekking boots, de-layered clothing, down jacket, sleeping bag, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water bottle, and own medicines. Don't leave home without a power bank or solar charger because electricity can be sparse in some villages.

15. Can I trek on a solo basis?

In theory, yes, but it is safer and more fun with a guide and a group. Solo trekking may be tough when you fall ill, the weather turns bad, or you are lost. Having several trekkers reduces costs as well, since the ride in a helicopter may be shared with a number of trekkers.

16. Is travel insurance a requirement?

Strongly, it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking and helicopter evacuation up to 4,500 meters. Should you suffer altitude sickness or any other emergency, your insurance company will foot the bill for evacuation, which would otherwise be a big expense.

17. Would families or older trekkers be able to do Last-Minute Trekking?

Absolutely! The helicopter ‘return’ renders this trek accessible even to older trekkers or to families with kids whose bodies may not be able to cover the distance of the downhill trek. Families take this path when they feel it is more comfortable and safe, and yet, with the adventure of getting to Annapurna base camp as a family.

18. What is so special about the helicopter return?

Several days of hiking and wading through rivers, jungles, and towns, a flight back in a helicopter changes more than just the scenery. You overlook the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, and the whole sanctuary above your head- the view that you cannot enjoy on trekking. It is also luxurious and relieves you of the pain and fatigue in the knees, which many trekkers get during the descent.

19. What is the advantage of doing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with a Helicopter Return instead of the common trek?

This is the ideal place where you can have adventure as well as comfort. But you continue to walk the awe-inspiring rhododendron forests, rock staging, and Gurung villages, and feel the perceptible Nepali culture and welcome. And in place of returning along the beaten path, you travel out like a royal in the air, as time-saving, energy-saving saving and you complete your journey with a luxury touch. There is almost a unanimous opinion among many trekkers, terming this combination as the finest Himalayan trek experience.