ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP HELI TREK
ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP HELI TREK
ADRENALIN RUSH FLYING HIGH LIKE AN EAGLE.
This 9 Days Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek lets you experience the Annapurna mountains with an adrenalin-pumping flight among some of the world’s highest mountains and trekking through the Annapurna Conservation Area with its unique landscape and rich cultures.
The 9 Days Annapurna Base Camp Heli Trek takes you to what is considered one of the most diverse regions in Nepal, well known for its unique fauna and diversity of cultures, such as Gurung and Magar. This trek is ideally suited to those who want everything but are short on time.
The trail takes you through the vibrant rhododendron and Cyprus forests and to villages steeped in traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture. Visit Ghorepani Village (2874m) the gateway and launch- pad to the famous viewing platform – Poon Hill and its breathtaking views of the looming Annapurna mountains landscape. Visit the lakeside town of Pokhara where you can see mountains such as the iconic Machapuchare (Fish Tail) and Annapurna in the distance. Once on the trail, you will see waterfalls cascading into steep valleys and an opportunity to relax at one of the many guest houses in Tikhedhunga (1570m) and take in the stunning views of the surrounding soaring peaks.
The highlight of this trek is undoubtedly the helicopter ride from Annapurna Base Camp back to Pokhara. This is a heart-stopping flight that offers a completely new perspective of just how massive these mountains really are!
Highlights of the 9 days Annapurna Heli-trek.
- 360-degree view of the Annapurna ranges in including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare (fish tail) & Gangapurna.
- Experience the typical cultural Gurung village of Ghandruk and amazing close-up view of Annapurna South &Hiunchuli. and Fishtail.
- The trekking trail goes through rich flora and fauna forests.
- Get a feel for the amazing culture & traditions of Ghandruk (2102m) – a Gurung village.
- An early morning sunrise view of Annapurna from Poon Hill. (Have your camera ready and charged!)
- Flying high in a helicopter from ABC to Pokhara. Spectacular perspective & views!
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu Transfer to Hotel (1,350m)
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will be there to greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel, followed by a briefing covering information, dos and don’ts of your trek. Your safety and comfort are paramount.
Day 2 : Fly to Pokhara to Nayapul & on to Tikhedhunga (1,480m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Your day begins with a short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a 42km drive of around 1:5 hrs from Pokhara via attractive Lumle Village, perched on the mountainside, and then on to Nayapul (1050m). The Poon Hill trek begins at Nayapul and after a 30-minute hike reaches Birethanti where you will be asked to your tourist permit at the checkpoint. The trail takes us through the beautiful rhododendron forest and then follows the Modi River with a stop at a teahouse for lunch in Ramghai Village along the way, and after a 3 -4-hour trek reach the lush green village of Tikhedhunga.
Day 3 : Trek to Ghorepani (2850m/9350ft), Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our trek today starts with a 2 hour fairly steep climb up to Ulleri (2070m) and then to the Magar village of Banthanti from where we are blessed with magical views of Mt. Machapuchare (6997m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and Annapurna South (7219m). After following the trail through a lush pink flowering rhododendron forest we cross a small bridge before reaching the village of Ghorepani where enormous peaks, such as Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli (6441m), and Annapurna loom in the background. This is a fantastic place to sit and take in the exquisite views.
Day 4 : Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10528ft), & trek to Tadapani (2,500m/8200ft), Duration: 6-7 hours.
Poon Hill is justifiable well known for offering unheralded views of the Annapurna Ranges – especially at sunrise and sunset. An early start will see us reach the Poon Hill viewpoint where we can watch the changing colors reflecting off the mountains, such as Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7855m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (729m), Nilgiri (6940m), Tukuche (6920m), Varaha Shikhar (7847m) & Lamjung Himal (6931m). After sending your camera into overdrive we will return to a well-deserved breakfast at Ghorepani, after which we head to Tadapani Village via the scenic trail passing through Deurali (meaning a ridge in Nepali) and teahouses until we reach Tadapani.
Day 5 : Tadapani to Sinuwa (2,310m/7575ft), Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Tadapani we follow the trail leading to Sinuwa with exhilarating views of the Upper Modi valley. The trail takes us along the west bank of the Modi Khola (river) before passing through Chomrong Village that lies at the foot of Mt. Himalchuli (7893m). After passing through Chomrong Village we continue along the trail until we reach Sinuwa Village where we stay the night.
Day 6 : Sinuwa to Deurali (3,150m/10330ft), Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trek today starts off heading downhill on stone steps to Sinuwa before going uphill to Deurali. The descending trail on the stone steps takes us through a bamboo forest passing streams and among flowering shrubs.
Day 7 : Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,210m/13810ft), Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek takes us via Machapuchare Base Camp and then to the Sanctuary (ABC) along with a trail that is often covered in snow – depending on the season. We follow the trail that takes us by Hinku Cave and Deurali. From ABC you are blessed with mind-boggling views of Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Himchuli (6441m), and Machapuchare (6997m) n enormous mountain right before your eyes! ABC has several teahouses where we can stop for a break and take in the magnificent views. We will stay here tonight.
Day 8 : Helicopter Ride to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu.
This is definitely a day to look forward to as you climb aboard your helicopter for a flight from ABC to Pokhara. The spectacular views of the soaring snow-clad Annapurna Massif are jaw-dropping. From Pokhara we will take an evening flight back to Kathmandu.
Day 9 : Final Departure from Kathmandu.
Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- International Airport pick-up and drop by car.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner/ the main course) during the trek in the mountain.
- Two nights’ standard accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu in a twin-sharing basis including 2 breakfasts.
- An experienced and Knowledgeable English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- All Food, Accommodation, Insurance, and transportation for porter and guide.
- Annapurna conservation area permit
- Helicopter flight from Annapurna base Camp to Pokhara
- Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu flight with private airport transfer and domestic airport tax.
- TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Trekking lodge (Tea House) throughout the trek.
- Assistant guide group size of more than 8 people in a group.
- Transportation from Pokhara to Nayapul to Pokhara by car
- Seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Appreciation of certificate after the successful trek
- Sherpa Teams company T-shirt
- Emergency rescue operation assistance in arranging in case of complex health condition (funded by travel insurance)
- All government, Local taxes/ vat and official Expenses
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you to the base camp of Mount Annapurna, one of the highest peaks in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and allows you to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the local communities.
How long is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The duration of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can vary depending on the specific itinerary and trekking agency. Typically, it takes around 10-14 days to complete the trek. This includes the trekking days and acclimatization/rest days.
What is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions. However, the trek can be done throughout the year, with the exception of the monsoon season (June to August) when the trail can be muddy and prone to landslides.
Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Yes, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered to be a moderately challenging trek. It involves walking for several hours each day on varied terrain, including uphill and downhill sections. A reasonable level of fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The maximum altitude reached during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is Annapurna Base Camp, which stands at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
What are the accommodation and food options during the trek?
Accommodation during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is usually in basic teahouses or lodges along the trail. These provide simple rooms with shared facilities. As for food, you can expect to find a variety of Nepali and international dishes, including dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and noodles.
Is a guide necessary for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it is highly recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the area or have limited trekking experience. A guide can provide valuable insights, help with navigation, and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
What should I pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good-quality backpack, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.
Can I combine the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with other treks in the region?
Yes, it is possible to combine the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region, such as the Poon Hill Trek or the Mardi Himal Trek. This allows you to explore more of the stunning landscapes and cultural diversity of the area.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 6 Reviews
Gugu Dantas
Australia
December 31, 2023
A Fun-Filled Adventure with Dorje from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking
Our trip with Dorje from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking was filled with fun and excitement. Dorje, our guide, went above and beyond to ensure that we had an amazing time. Despite not reaching the base camp, the beauty of the surroundings was simply breathtaking. We cannot thank Dorje enough for his guidance and expertise, and for choosing the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Gerry Hanlin
Denmark
December 4, 2023
A Journey Filled with Beauty and Gratitude
My journey with lakap Wongdi from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking was filled with the beauty of the Annapurna region and gratitude for his exceptional guidance. Although we didn't reach the base camp, the stunning surroundings left us in awe. Dorje's dedication and expertise made this trip truly special. Thank you, Dorje, for choosing the Annapurna Base Camp trek and making it a memorable experience.
Juliana WillsLucia Watly
Guernsey
October 10, 2023
Beyond Expectations
Nima, our guide from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking, exceeded our expectations on our trip to the Annapurna Base Camp. Despite not reaching the base camp, the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings made the journey worthwhile. Dorje's guidance and expertise were instrumental in making this trip unforgettable. We are grateful for his efforts and for choosing this amazing trek.
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