Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 8 Days

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ABC Trek with Helicopter Return

Trek to the iconic Annapurna Base Camp and fly back in style with our Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter return. This 8 days package by Himalayan Recreation Treks blends cultural immersion and the thrill of a scenic helicopter ride in one seamless trip.

Starting from just USD 1499, the itinerary of our ABC Trek with Helicopter Return is ideal if you want to avoid retracing the same trail back and save some time.

With our fully inclusive package, you get to enjoy expert-guided trekking, full board meals, permits, accommodations, and a thrilling helicopter return. Book now with us for your best adventure in 2026/2027.

 
At a Glance
  • Duration8 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max Altitude 4130 m
  • Group Size 1- 10 Pax
  • Starts Kathmandu Airport
  • Ends Kathmandu Airport
  • Best Season Autumn & Spring
Highlights
  • Experience the adrenaline rush of walking in the Annapurna Conservation Area as you make your way to the base camp of Mount Annapurna.
  • Indulge in unparalleled views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and other gigantic mountains.
  • Hike through classic Gurung and Magar villages where you experience the locals' way of living and hospitality.
  • Experience the thrill of a helicopter ride from the mountains and avoid the long and exhausting trek.
  • Get a bird's-eye view of the Annapurna mountain range, along with several other peaks, from the Helicopter.
  • Cover two base camps in one trip: Machhapuchhre base camp and Annapurna base camp.

Overview

Our Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is a unique and thrilling trekking package that brings the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas together with the luxury and convenience of the modern era.

If you want something even more luxurious and wish to skip the entire walk, we have the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour tailor-made for those seeking comfort.

This 8 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Return by Helicopter, on the other hand, immerses you deeply in the heart of Nepal's most famous mountain region, Annapurna, while also offering the thrill and comfort of flying above the snow-covered peaks.

As you begin the journey from Siwai after 2 days of driving from Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will walk down the trail and discover the cascading falls, terraced valleys, and twisting streams against the background of rugged Himalayan ridges.

With Himalayan Recreation Treks' carefully designed itinerary, you will witness the grandeur of Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) both on foot and from the air, ideal for those who want the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas combined with the speed and comfort of a helicopter ride.

Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time traveler, this 8 days package is for all fitness levels and tastes and is perfect for your 2026/2027 Himalayan adventure.

Our Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Helicopter Return package also provides ample time to discover the local culture and traditional Nepali cuisine and interact with friendly locals of the region.

However, if you wish to experience the full trek with hiking back, then you can check out our Annapurna Base Camp Trek 10-day package.

Through our ABC Trek with Helicopter Return package, you're not merely signing up for a trek; you're embarking on an adventure of a lifetime, merging classic Himalayan trekking with modern luxury.

Booking is now open for 2026/2027, starting from just USD 1500, so hurry up and grab your spot to embark on one of the epic adventures in Nepal with Himalayan Recreation Treks.

Why choose the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Return by Helicopter?

Choosing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Return by Helicopter means you get to have so much more than the typical trek experience.

You avoid hours on the return with the helicopter option and instead get to spend your time taking in the view and relaxing. The trek provides you with a diversity of landscapes, from verdant valleys and dense woods to alpine meadows, where every step is an experience in itself.

Further, this Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Helicopter Return offer you an opportunity to experience local culture and gain insight into their tradition, cuisine, and lifestyle, making your overall trekking experience richer.

At Himalayan Recreation Treks, we understand that every trekker has unique preferences. That’s why we offer multiple trekking options for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return, ensuring your journey fits your style, schedule, and comfort level.

You can choose between group treks or private treks. If you're looking to meet like-minded adventurers, share stories, and enjoy a sociable trail experience, our group trek is perfect for you.

On the other hand, our private trek is ideal for those who value a more personal adventure. With a dedicated guide and customized pacing, this option offers increased flexibility, privacy, and control over your itinerary.

Additionally, we offer fully customizable trekking itineraries for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with return by Helicopter. Whether you want to extend your trip, add cultural sightseeing, or slow down, we’ll tailor the experience to meet your exact needs.

For those who wish to explore more of the Annapurna region, we highly recommend the Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek, a perfect extension or alternative.

How can you reach the Base Camp on the ABC trek with a helicopter return?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with return by helicopter begins with an extremely scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. On the second day of the trip, there is a brief jeep drive to the trek starting point, Siwai.

You then trek for some days through charming Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, river gorges, and alpine high-altitude landscapes. Eventually, the route leads you to the ABC at 4,130 meters, surrounded by majestic peaks like Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.

After spending a night at the ABC and witnessing the mesmerising sunrise over the peaks, you'll skip the return hike and fly home on a thrilling helicopter ride back to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will then take a 25-minute flight back to Kathmandu.

All three modes of transportation are included in our package, making sure the entire trip is smooth and comfortable for you.

Why Choose Us?

By choosing Himalayan Recreation for the Annapurna Base Camp trek with return by helicopter, you are choosing a service that prioritizes quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.

Our local guides have years of experience guiding in the Annapurna region, and we personalize every detail to ensure your trek is tailored to your requirements, whether a group or a private trek.

Our transparent pricing includes accommodation, food, permits, transport, and the unique helicopter return without any hidden costs. Your safety is our priority, and we follow strict safety protocols, especially for altitude sickness prevention.

With us, you are in safe hands and you can enjoy the trip to the best while we arrange everything to match your pace and style.

How much does ABC Trek with Helicopter Return Cost for 2026/2027?

Our 2026/2027 Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return cost is priced at $1499 to $1999 per person. The cost varies based on the number of trekkers and the amount of customization.

The package cost is inclusive of all the transportation, accommodation, meals, guide charges, helicopter return, and permits. Below is the cost breakdown according to the number of trekkers:

No. of trekkers

Cost per person

1

$1999

2-4

$1699

5-7

$1599

7+

$1499

By choosing our all-inclusive 8 days package, you can leave the arrangements to us and focus on enjoying the grandeur of the Annapurna region. Book now with only a 20% deposit and start planning for your adventure in the mountains.

If you want to know more about customization, contact us directly via email or WhatsApp.

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
  • Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 820m
  • Day 03: Jeep Drive from Pokhara to Siwai and Trek to Chomrong through Jhinu Danda 2,170m
  • Day 04: Trek from Chomrong to Dovan 2,600m
  • Day 05: Trek from Dovan to Deurali 3,230m
  • Day 06: Trek from Deurali to ABC 4,130m
  • Day 07: Helicopter pickup from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara, then Flight back to Kathmandu 1350m
  • Day 08: Final Departure

Cost Details

Cost Includes
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle
  • 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu (3-star) with breakfast
  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara (3-star) with breakfast
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • TIMS card
  • Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers) including salary, food, accommodation & insurance
  • All ground transportation: Kathmandu–Pokhara–Nayapul/Landruk/Siwai
  • Annapurna Base Camp → Pokhara helicopter flight
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu by flight
  • Down jacket & sleeping bag (return after trek)
  • First-aid kit
  • Government taxes, service charges & office paperwork
Cost Excludes
  • International flights
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (except breakfast)
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging during the trek
  • Extra nights in Kathmandu or Pokhara (if needed)
  • Drinks, snacks & alcoholic beverages
  • Tips for guide, porter & driver
  • Any costs not mentioned in “Cost Includes”

Itinerary

Day 01:Arrive in Kathmandu

The Himalayan adventure begins as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital. Upon arrival, our representative greets you and takes you to your hotel in the very center of the city. Once you check in at the hotel, you can unwind from your journey or freshen up before going out to explore nearby Thamel.

Thamel's small alleys offer a great mix of culture, cuisine, and adventure shops. You can go shopping for local handicrafts, relish street food momos (Nepali dumplings), and even buy some last-minute trekking gear. At dusk, you will be introduced to your trekking guide for a quick briefing and preparation session on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return. It is the best time to pose any last-minute queries before your trek begins.

  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Day 02:Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Today, we undertake our scenic overland trip to Pokhara, Nepal's most popular lakeside city and gateway to the Annapurna massif. Following breakfast, you will journey by tourist-class coach or private vehicle (depending upon your package) for a 6–7 hour trip west into the Nepalese countryside. The meandering roads along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers make for a picturesque backdrop throughout the drive.

We arrive in Pokhara in the late afternoon. After checking into your lakeside hotel, you can go on a walk along the lake quietly or have dinner in one of the many lakeside cafés in the evening. With the fresh air, mountain views, and serene environment, Pokhara makes a great welcome to the adventure ahead.

  • Max Altitude:820m
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast

Day 03:Jeep Drive from Pokhara to Siwai and Trek to Chomrong through Jhinu Danda

After an early morning breakfast, we travel by private jeep to Siwai, the start of our ABC Trek with Helicopter Return. The drive takes about 3–4 hours and meanders through dense hillsides, fields, and villages, giving you a first-hand experience of Nepalese village life. We travel on foot from Siwai, walking through the subtropical jungle, suspension bridges swaying in the wind, and taking in the fresh mountain air. You can have a short stop at Jhinu Danda to enjoy the natural hot springs.

We continue from Jhinu Danda on stone staircases and forest trails to arrive at the charming village of Chomrong. Theis Gurung village is placed along a ridge and offers stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. It boasts neat lodges, cultivated lands, and the hum of trekkers swapping experiences.

  • Max Altitude:2,170m
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 04:Trek from Chomrong to Dovan

On the fourth day of our 8 days itinerary of the Annapurna Base Camp trek flight back by helicopter, we begin our day with a dramatic descent to the Chomrong Khola, riding over a suspension bridge before we climb once more through a wooded path. The climb is steady but rewarding, through serene scenery of bamboo forest, rhododendron trees, and far-off sights of snow summits. You'll walk through the small village of Sinuwa, then walk further into the thicker forest as you near Bamboo and continue to Dovan.

With every step into the Annapurna Conservation Area, the landscape changes as the cool forest trail is capped with a peaceful moss, mossy rocks, and fluttering prayer flags. Dovan is a peaceful haven, located on the banks of the Modi Khola River and covered with dense forest. This serene mountain village gives you a glimpse of the virginity and seclusion that define the Annapurna region.

  • Max Altitude:2,600m
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 05:Trek from Dovan to Deurali

The trail today takes us to greater heights and more spectacular views as we hike from Dovan to Deurali. We follow one of the trails down the Modi Khola, hiking along beneath precipitous rock faces where waterfalls cascade down. The jungle slowly gives way to increasing barrenness and greater mountain vistas. With increasing altitude, the air becomes much colder and the vegetation becomes thinner.

The final trek to Deurali is a struggle uphill, but the effort is rewarded with the scenic sight of the mountains. At 3,230 meters' height, Deurali is encircled by stone cliffs and is an ideal spot to acclimatize before climbing to the summit of the trek. You get to enjoy a warm dinner in your teahouse, gazing up at the stars as the high-altitude sky becomes really crystal clear on this night.

  • Max Altitude:3,230m
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 06:Trek from Deurali to ABC

Your long-awaited day is here on your 8 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return itinerary. In the morning, as we leave Deurali, the air freshens and the scenery becomes more impressive. The route ascends gradually along the river Modi Khola. We trek past Bagar and arrive at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), 3,700 meters. This is a stunning resting place where the views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli are nearly within arm's reach.

A couple of miles on from MBC, the route opens up into the amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Struggling on toward ABC, the scenery becomes increasingly stunning. To reach ABC at 4,130 meters is an experience that will be remembered forever. We're now amidst the great Himalayan giants on all four sides: Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Tent Peak, and a few others. Once we settle at our teahouse, we will relax for some time at the base camp, soaking in the views, clicking photos, and reflecting upon the journey that we've undertaken to be here.

  • Max Altitude:4,130m
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 07:Helicopter pickup from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara, then Flight back to Kathmandu

After a peaceful night at the Base Camp, we set out early to witness one of the world's most breathtaking sunrises. With the dawn light bathing the snow-covered peaks that surround the sanctuary, the entire mountain amphitheater is bathed in golden light, a moment of unadulterated Himalayan bliss. Following breakfast, your trek concludes in the most exhilarating possible way: a scenic helicopter flight back to Pokhara. Over the paths we've walked the last two days, you'll see bird's-eye views of the Annapurna Massif, green valleys, and far-off ridges, all within a thrilling 20-minute flight.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can have some time to walk around the lake or have lunch before flying to Kathmandu on a short domestic flight. The thrill of the ABC Trek with Helicopter Return is greatest here, offering the indulgence of skipping the time-consuming descent while still getting to see the scenery from above. When you arrive in Kathmandu, our team will leave you at the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy, celebrate your achievement, view the capital one last time, or do some souvenir shopping.

  • Max Altitude:1350m
  • Time:4 hours
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 08:Final Departure

On the final day, you are taken to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Bid farewell to Nepal with memories of an unforgettable journey, a combination of strenuous trekking and luxurious travel that included the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with helicopter return.

  • Meals:Breakfast

Not the right fit? Customize this itinerary or services to match your needs and budget—just contact us!

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return - 8 Days FAQs

  • This hike combines the excitement of hiking to one of Nepal's most mythical base camps with the luxury of a helicopter return to Pokhara. On the ABC Trek with Helicopter Return, you have the benefit of saving time and experiencing an unbeatable bird's-eye view of the Himalayas.

  • The trek is an 8 days journey with a complete itinerary from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp and a helicopter return to Pokhara.

  • Yes, the trek is moderate in level and can be done by trekkers with average fitness. Our professionally trained guides ensure that all the trekkers are well acclimatized and safe on the trip.

  • Minimum essentials are warm clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy trekking boots, a good sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, and water purification tablets. You can find detailed packing lists for treks here.

  • On Day 7 of the trek, you will have a helicopter flight back to Pokhara from the Annapurna base camp, which is a thrilling and memorable end to your trekking adventure.

  • Yes, our Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return package can be customized to your requirements, ranging from changes in accommodation, extension of the itinerary, and additional cultural tours.

  • The best periods are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is favorable and the views are wonderful.

  • There are gradual ascents and acclimatization stops to reduce the incidence of altitude sickness. Our guides recognize the symptoms and can act quickly if required.

  • Yes, it is possible to trek without a guide, but having a guide is much safer. They also provide you with insights into the region and the locals.

  • You need to be moderately fit to complete this trek to the point that you can walk for 5-6 hours a day with ascents and descents.

  • You need two permits to complete the trek: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card, which are both included in our package.

  • Yes, there is a professional, experienced pilot who will provide you with a short briefing before you hop on for the ride. Also, the flight won’t take off if the weather conditions are not good.

  • No, tipping is not mandatory, but it is always good to tip your guide as a way of showing appreciation. The recommended tip is around 100-200 dollars for the entire trip.

Know Before You Go

Best Time for the Trek

Although the Annapurna Base Camp Trek flight back by Helicopter can be done throughout the year, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons given its weather and temperature.

These periods have the clearest skies, most stable weather, and moderate temperatures, perfect for trekking in the Himalayas. During the spring, the rhododendron trees bloom, coloring the landscape with their beautiful hues, and in autumn, the air is crisp and clear, ideal for photography and long treks.

Winter trekking is also possible, but you should be well prepared for cold temperatures dropping to minus 10 at night. Whereas, monsoon (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, slippery tracks, and increased risk of landslides.

What is the food and drinking water like on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Return by Helicopter?

Our package for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return includes three meals a day. You will be treated to healthy, local cuisine along the route.

Dal bhat (lentil soup, rice, vegetables, and pickles), momos (dumplings), and noodle soups are some of the food options you get for lunch and dinner, with Dal bhat being a staple meal.

For breakfast, you can get bread, pancakes, eggs, and soups. In the lower region, international cuisines are also available. However, as you ascend, the options can get limited. But don’t worry, as your guide will be there to ensure you get a nutritious and healthy meal throughout the trek.

Drinking water is available at every stop of the journey, but we highly recommend you use water purification tablets or a portable filter to have safe drinking water.

Not only does this avoid exposure to waterborne disease, but it also avoids reliance on purchasing bottled water, which saves plastic from littering the fragile mountain environment.

What kind of accommodation is available on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return?

During the ABC trek with Helicopter return, on the first 2 days, you will be staying in a three-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara. As you hit the trail on the third day, you will stay in simple tea houses or lodges with warm but humble accommodations.

All the accommodation of the trek is included in our package and is pre-arranged by us. Each teahouse has twin-sharing rooms with a bed, blankets, and pillows, and communal dining halls where you will enjoy hot meals and share stories with other travelers.

At higher elevations, accommodations get simpler with shared bathrooms, but the intent is to provide a welcoming and secure haven for you to rest awhile after a full day on the trail.

You can charge your electronic devices at most of the tea houses for an extra cost. As for Wi-Fi, it is unreliable and not available at all the teahouses. Other facilities, like a hot shower, are also available at an extra cost.

Difficulty Level of Annapurna Base Camp Trek flight back by Helicopter

Our Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return falls under an easy trek, as it is short and does not involve the walk back. The trek includes 5–7 hours of walking daily with ascents and descents.

Physical effort is required; however, you do not have to be experienced to embark on this journey. If you are physically fit and able to walk a few hours a day, you're good to go. However, we do recommend you prepare for the ABC trek with a Helicopter return by doing some cardiovascular workouts and short warm-up hikes.

The helicopter return option also reduces the overall physical effort by eliminating the long descent from the Base Camp, making the trek possible for a larger group of travelers, from beginners to seasoned adventurers.

All You Need to Know About Altitude Sickness

High-altitude trekking like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return can sometimes lead to altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is the condition caused when your body rapidly ascends to a higher altitude.

The highest point you will be reaching during this 8 days itinerary is 4130 m, which does bring the chances of getting altitude sickness. Thus, to avoid this, you need to watch out for the symptoms, which are usually headaches, nausea, dizziness, and breathlessness.

To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, drink lots of water during the trek, don't hurry, and take frequent rests. And if you experience any symptoms, inform your guide immediately.

Adhering to these rules and following our seasoned guides, you can minimize the risk and enjoy a safe and fulfilling experience on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Return by Helicopter.

How can you prepare for the Annapurna Base Camp trek return by Helicopter?

To get ready for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek flight back by helicopter, you can start with cardiovascular training like trekking, jogging, or climbing stairs a few weeks before your trip.

While the trek doesn't require technical climbing skills, staying fit will make you enjoy the trek more. Equally important is the conditioning of the mind; get yourself ready for a varied landscape, altitude fluctuation, and sparse accommodations.

Ensure you pack wisely, stay hydrated, and walk slowly to acclimatize yourself while ascending in altitude. You can directly reach out to us if you need personalized guidance on preparing for the Annapurna Base Camp and Helicopter return.

Packing list for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek flight back by Helicopter

Smart packing is essential in any Himalayan journey, along with the ABC Trek with Helicopter Return. At Himalayan Recreation Treks, to make your packing process easier, we offer a duffle bag, sleeping bag, and trekking poles before you hit the trail.

Apart from that, below are the must-have items for your 8 days journey:

  • Base layer clothing
  • Insulated fleece/down jacket and waterproof outer layer
  • Trekking pants and shorts
  • Gloves, thermal clothes, and a sunhat or a wool cap.
  • Trekking boots
  • Slippers or light shoes
  • Trekking backpack (30–40L)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses
  • Toiletries
  • Personal medication
  • Power bank, camera

You can buy or rent the trekking gear in Kathmandu or Pokhara as well. Further, if you have any extra luggage, you can store it at our office in Kathmandu or the hotel you stay in.

Permits required for the ABC trek with Helicopter return

To complete the ABC Trek with Helicopter Return, you need two official permits:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Both are necessary for all trekkers and are checked at several checkpoints along the way. Himalayan Recreation takes care of all the permit bookings on your behalf as part of the package.

All we ask from you is a couple of passport photos and a photocopy of your passport; the rest is done by us. By booking with us, you can have the experience without having to queue or handle local documentation.

How to book the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Return back by helicopter with us?

Booking your Annapurna Base Camp Trek return back by helicopter is easy and tailored with Himalayan Recreation. You can start by filling out our online inquiry form or simply reach out to us via email or WhatsApp.

We will respond instantly to help you through accessible dates, group or private options, and customization possibilities.

Once you finalize your travel dates and itinerary details, you have to pay a 30% deposit via online payment methods. The 80% remaining payment can be done once you are in Kathmandu in USD or EURO.

We have a different policy for refunds depending on how early you cancel the trip. But if you wish to change the date, we can do so without any hassle.

Early bookings for the 2026/2027 season are recommended, especially if you want peak-season helicopter reservations and accommodations. Book now with a 30% deposit and look forward to the best trip of your life.

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