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Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return
Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return

Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return

Tour Info

Trip code

DE-0098

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

lounge & tea house

Max Altitude

5,545 meters (Kala Patthar)

Duration

12 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Moderate

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Highlights

  • Visiting temples, palaces, and sights in Kathmandu Valley will ensue from an adequate introduction to Nepalese heritage before proceeding to the mountains.
  • Board a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The flight will offer you a breathtaking view of the mountains and a river. On clear days, even glimpses of the Himalayas will be visible.
  • Jeep journey from Pokhara to Banthanti, with the route passing through villages, agricultural areas, and forested mountain passes, which give a foretaste of what the trek will hold.
  • Trek through lush rhododendron forests and charming Gurung villages on the way to Ghorepani, experiencing local mountain life and warm teahouse hospitality.
  • Hike early in the morning to Poon Hill and witness a breathtaking sunrise as golden light spreads across Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding Himalayan range.
  • Return to Ghorepani to have breakfast before embarking on a helicopter ride that provides a dramatic switch from trekking to adventure.
  • Arrive at Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m and be surrounded by giant snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and vast alpine scenery in this world-renowned corner of Nepal.
  • Take a helicopter return to Pokhara, and enjoy spectacular views of valleys, icefields, and ridges that give you a true perspective of just how massive the Annapurna range is.

Overview

Trip Overview of Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return

Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return from Everest Chopper, the best heli tour company in Nepal, is a short yet unforgettable journey which combines the classic Poon Hill trek with a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter landing at Annapurna Base Camp. This travel journey starts in Kathmandu, where cultural sightseeing introduces you to Nepal’s heritage, temples, and lively streets. This is accompanied by a flight to Pokhara and a jeep journey into the Annapurna region’s foothills.

The trekking experience follows the beautiful Annapurna lowland tracks, whereby you pass through rhododendron forests, paved stone villages, and Gurung villages to finally reach Ghorepani. Final peak experience during trekking follows an early morning trek to Poon Hill, whereby you enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and many other giants of the Himalayas during the sunrise moment. 

However, an essential element within the trekking adventure follows the distinctive final experience, whereby you are expected to leave the trekking process and be airlifted by a helicopter/chopper from Ghorepani to finally reach Annapurna Base Camp, which is located 4,130m above sea level, and hence enjoy the magnificence and majesty of the high Himalayan peaks within relatively shorter periods. After taking in the spectacular scenery, this adventure concludes with a scenic helicopter flight back to Pokhara, completing a seamless and unforgettable mountain experience.

What to Expect on the Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return

The Poon Hill Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Landing is a well-crafted mix of Himalayan adventure, comfortable trekking, and cultural exposure, topped off with exciting helicopter access into the majestic mountains. Right from your arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, you embark on learning about Nepal’s rich historical and cultural past through guided city tours of the Kathmandu Valley, and its historical temples and palaces, which provide you with a glimpse of Nepal’s rich past.

Poonhill trek with ABC presses on with a plane journey to Pokhara, and then a jeep ride to the low Annapurna region to start trekking. The next two days are to be trekked in rhododendrons, stone villages, and fields on ever-climbing trails towards Ghorepani. The morning hike to Poon Hill is when you experience the best view of the sunrise in Nepal. There is spectacular scenery of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and the Himalayan Range.

Exactly what makes this trek so remarkable comes with its truly one-of-a-kind ending. You get to enjoy your breakfast at Ghorepani, and then you are flown by helicopter to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. This way, you get to enjoy the majestic sight of the great Himalayan range without physically hiking back down. Finally, your trek comes to a close with a helicopter ride back to Pokhara, taking in the breathtaking view of Annapurna from up high.

Poon Hill Trek with Poonhill trek with ABC Personalized for You

Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return experience is designed to feel personal rather than rushed or overly packaged. The journey moves at a relaxed pace, allowing enough time to enjoy the scenery, interact with locals, and walk comfortably through the lower Annapurna trails. Whether you are new to trekking or already familiar with mountain travel, the itinerary adapts naturally to your comfort level, with manageable walking days and carefully chosen overnight stops.

There will be ample opportunities to take breaks while ascending into the forests and villages. A morning, well-timed hike to Poon Hill ensures that you not only witness the sunrise views but also do not feel the pressure or fatigue. The helicopter ride brings a fresh element of comfort to the trek. You will not have to trek all the way from Ghorepani to Annapurna Base Camp. Instead, a helicopter ride will take you from Ghorepani to Annapurna Base Camp, allowing you to witness the high-altitude beauty of the Himalayan range. The return journey to Pokhara almost perfects the trek, making it a preferable option for anyone looking to experience Annapurna in style.

Safety First in Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return.

Safety is a concern for the entire Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Trip. All aspects of your journey are dealt with for a completely safe experience. Right from your arrival in Kathmandu, your transportation, flying, and staying are all done while keeping in mind the factor of safety.

While trekking, the route selected is for its scenic beauty as well as ease of access. There will be well-marked routes to walk, gentle hills to climb, and frequent breaks to rest. Guides will be experienced professionals to observe your condition while trekking and change the itinerary if required. The helicopter part of your experience is followed to the letter in terms of safety measures, with expert pilots and appropriate aircraft, and checks that it is safe to operate in the weather conditions that exist at all times.

This means that your adventure to Annapurna Base Camp is as safe as it is exhilarating, allowing you to take in all that you see and experience, rather than having to fret about your surroundings. This is a totally stress-free adventure experience.

Best Time to Visit Poonhill trek with ABC – Luxury Helicopter Trek

Choosing the right season is essential for enjoying the Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp helicopter experience to its fullest. The best time to travel generally falls between spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and Himalayan vistas are at their most spectacular. During these times of the year, the weather conditions are ideal for the trek, with little chance of flights being delayed. 

This makes the total journey from the helicopter and the trek quite pleasant. In the spring, the rhododendron flowers are in bloom. This makes the trail quite colorful. In addition to the natural beauty, the villages and the observation points are quite lively in anticipation of the approaching trekking season.In autumn, the weather conditions are quite cool. The views are excellent. In addition, the mountains around look quite dramatic with a clearer definition. Another bonus of going during the autumn season is getting to observe the festivals in the lower valleys.

Physical Fitness Requirements for the Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return

Although the Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return involves no technical climbing, a moderate level of fitness is recommended.You need to be comfortable with three to five hours of walking daily on uneven trails with gently rising hills. The itinerary is designed to allow for gradual ascents and adequate rest, allowing your body to naturally acclimatize to higher elevations. Preparing by regular walking, hiking, cycling, or light cardio will ensure that you get more out of the trek. In fact, with reasonable fitness, a positive frame of mind, and the support of an expert in trekking, almost anyone of good health can thoroughly enjoy this magnificent Himalayan adventure.

Accommodations on Poon Hill Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Landing:
Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp by Helicopter focuses on comfort without losing the charm of an adventure into the mountains. At the end of a whole day of trekking, you will be staying at carefully selected hotels along the route-every room clean, every meal warm, and every hotel staff member ready to welcome you into his or her home. The accommodations are chosen not just for convenience but also for their scenic locations, giving you beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys from the comfort of your room. 

The Helicopter portion adds another level of ease, removing the need for extended high altitude camping while still providing you with an immersive Himalayan experience. Each night is carefully planned to ensure that you have maximum comfort, safety, and relaxation. This combination of trekking experiences and stays makes the journey both memorable as well as stress-free.

Why Choose Helicopter Access for Poonhill trek with ABC helicopter landing and return?

The inclusion of helicopter access in the Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp trek will turn an already amazing trekking experience into an even smoother and unforgettable journey. Helicopter access allows you to reach high altitudes and arrive at Annapurna Base Camp without enduring long periods of physical climbing. This will provide each moment in the helicopter ride as safe, comfortable, and thrilling as possible, with expert pilots and well-planned helicopter schedule timing. It will provide added convenience to your trip, allowing you to spend even more time enjoying what is before you while on this journey. Treks combined with helicopter access will provide you with an efficient and enjoyable Himalayan experience.

Packing List For Poonhill Trek With ABC

Proper packing allows you to fully enjoy your Poon Hill trekking experience with maximum comfort. Additionally, weather conditions here can quickly shift. Essentially, Poon Hill trekking requires only the necessary trekking equipment, and since it is a short and high-level trek with teahouse accommodations, no extensive expedition gear will be needed.

  • Clothing

    • Trekking pants

    • Base layers or thermal wear

    • Fleece jacket or insulated mid-layer

    • Down jacket for early mornings and evenings

    • Waterproof jacket and pants

    • Trekking shirts or moisture-wicking tops

    • Warm hat or beanie

    • Sun hat or cap

    • Gloves

    • Comfortable underwear and trekking socks

  • Footwear

    • Well broken-in trekking shoes or boots

    • Light shoes or sandals for lodge use in the evenings

  • Accessories

    • UV-protected sunglasses

    • Sunscreen and lip balm

    • Trekking poles

    • Small daypack

    • Water bottle or hydration system

  • Personal Items

    • Toiletries

    • Personal medications

    • Basic first-aid kit

    • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer

  • Electronics and Documents

    • Camera or smartphone

    • Power bank

    • Passport, trekking permits, and travel documents

This packing list ensures you stay comfortable, prepared, and free to enjoy the scenic trails, sunrise views, and helicopter experience without carrying unnecessary weight.

Cost Estimation

No. Of People

Price Per Person In USD

1 Pax

3065

2-3 Pax

2179

4-5 Pax

2003

6-7 Pax

1974

8-9 Pax

1943

10 Pax

1880

 

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, the culturally rich and historically significant capital city of Nepal, is bustling around you. You are transferred in a comfortable vehicle to your hotel courtesy of our representative. The transfer allows you to catch glimpses of the city's unique architecture and street life while resting from your flight. The evening goes easy for you, with all the introductions to Nepalese culture, history, and hospitality, setting the tone for your Himalayan adventure. Later in the day, your guide will take you through an extensive briefing on trekking aspects, altitude concerns, as well as the helicopter return system from the Annapurna Base Camp. The last equipment check is completed to ensure everything about the trekking phase is in place. You may have a short walk around the bustling Thamel area, with time to visit local shops, cafes, and handicraft markets-or take a rest at the hotel, whichever you feel like. It's a light day to allow your body to recover from travel and get itself ready for the mountains ahead. A sound night's sleep then sees you energized and ready to go the next morning.

Max Elevation: 1,400 m
Distance: ~10 km transfer
Travel Duration: ~30–45 min
Overnight stay: Kathmandu
Meals included: Breakfast

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley (1,400 m)

After breakfast, you set out to explore the Kathmandu Valley, a region rich in history, culture, and spiritual significance. The day will be spent visiting the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, the large Baudha Stupa in Baudha, and the historic Durbar Squares in Kathmandu Valley, Patan, and/or Bhaktapur. Throughout the visits, the insights given by the guide will help you absorb the culture and understand the history behind the architecture, festivals, and traditions.

You will be taken on a relaxed schedule, allowing you to visit all the sites without tiring yourselves. On a stroll down the narrow cobblestone roads and amidst the throngs of worshippers in the temples is the best way to get introduced to the Nepali lifestyle. In the evenings, you will return to hotel accommodation for some rest and a briefing on what to expect the following day on the trip to Pokhara. This is a crucial moment as you prepare yourself physically for what lies ahead. At the end of this day, you will find yourself fully submerged within the atmosphere of Kathmandu.

Max Elevation: 1,400 m
Distance: ~15–20 km sightseeing
Travel Duration: Full day
Overnight stay: Kathmandu
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara by flight, then jeep drive to Banthati (1,700 m)

Early in the morning, you take a scenic domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, witnessing sweeping views of the lush hills, rivers, and, on clear days, glimpses of the Himalayan peaks. The aeroplane gives you a breathtaking view of the landscape as you fly over the terrain before landing. Once you arrive in Pokhara, a jeep will escort you to Banthati, a peaceful village situated in the foothills of the lower ranges of the Annapurna.

The ride through the countryside using the jeep will offer you views of terraced fields, countryside villages, and dense forests. Once you arrive at Banthati village, you check-in to a cozy lodge. You take the ride to help you acclimatize to the mountains while still offering you a rich display of landscape beauty. After a peaceful rest in Banthati, you are ready for the ascent to Ghorepani.

Max Elevation: 1,700 m
Distance: ~110 km flight + 45 km jeep drive
Travel Duration: ~25–30 min flight + 2–3 hr drive
Overnight stay: Banthati
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Hike to Ghorepani (2,850 m)

Today is the actual start of your Himalayan trek as you trek from Banthati to Ghorepani. During the trek, you pass through thick rhododendron jungles, farmlands, and Gurung settlements. You get to experience the daily life of the people and are treated to breathtaking scenery along the way. Although it is an uphill trek, it is not tiring as the pace is quite comfortable. You pass through Nepalese villages along the way, which are populated with locals tending to their daily business. In the process, you get the chance to interact with the locals as they go about their daily affairs.

There are teahouse stops along the path for rest and drinks. This increases the excitement as you trek. As you trek closer to Ghorepani, there is breathtaking scenery of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre Mountain. This leaves you with anticipation for the upcoming sunrise trek the following morning. As you arrive at Ghorepani, you check into a comfortable lodge with hot food and

comfortable beds. This is the best time to relax or spend the night gazing at the stars or basking in the hillside bliss.
Max Elevation: 2,850 m
Distance: ~12 km
Travel Duration: 5–6 hours
Overnight stay: Ghorepani
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05: Hike to Poon Hill and back to Ghorepani, then helicopter to Annapurna Base Camp and back to Pokhara (4,130 m)

Before dawn, you trek to Poon Hill at 3,210 m to experience one of the most spectacular sunrises in the Himalayas. The sight takes in the entire Annapurna range, the Dhaulagiri, Machapucchre, as well as a host of other Himalayan peaks, all bathed in the golden glow of the rising sun. After taking in the view, you head back to Ghorepani for some well-deserved breakfast.

After breakfast, you are picked up from Ghorepani by a helicopter for a dream flight to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. Landing amidst glacial mountains and snow-capped peaks, you witness the magnificence of the higher Himalayas without having to undertake the rigorous trek. The return journey to Pokhara by helicopter provides mind-blowing sights into valleys, mountain ridges, and peaks of Annapurna.  

Trekking to Poon Hill, exploring the village of Ghorepani, and flying to Annapurna Base Camp ensure you get to enjoy the beauty formed by the Himalayan range from the ground as well as from the skies. On reaching the Pokhara airport, you finish this journey with comfort and awe-inspired memories of Annapurna.

Max Elevation: 4,130 m (ABC), 3,210 m (Poon Hill)
Distance: ~5 km hike + helicopter flight
Travel Duration: 2–3 hr hike + 25 min flight each way
Overnight stay: Pokhara
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Route

poonhill trek with abc helicopter - 5 days

What's included

  • Airport Arrival and Departure Transfers in Kathmandu
  • Hotel stays at Kathmandu and Pokhara on a bed-and-breakfast basis
  • Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu Valley with private transportation
  • Domestic air transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • Jeep transfer from Pokhara to Banthati
  • All trekking permits & local entry fees
  • Licensed and experienced trekking guide throughout the journey
  • Accommodations in properly maintained lodges throughout the trek.
  • Breakfast and lunch and/or dinner mentioned in the itinerary during trek days
  • Helicopter pickup from Ghorepani to Annapurna Base Camp, then back to Pokhara
  • Government taxes, service charges, and administrative fees

What's excluded

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal visa cost
  • Travel and medical insurance, including helicopter evacuation insurance
  • Personal expenses including laundry, phone calls, snacks, and beveragesThe foods that should not be consumed are alcoholic drinks, soft drinks,
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and trekking staff
  • Accommodation or meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara not included in the itinerary.
  • Any cost incurred due to unforeseen events such as weather-related disruptions or cancellations of flights

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to do the Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return?

You reach your hotel in a luxurious vehicle and get a chance to relax from your travel. The exciting and lively city of Kathmandu itself, along with historical temples and streets full of life, helps ease your introduction into the culture of Nepal.

Later in the day, a comprehensive briefing before the start of the trek will be given by the guide. The briefing will include trekking highlights, altitude advice, safety instructions, helicopter return details, and finally, a check of the equipment to ensure that it is ready for use before the start of the trek.

How strenuous is the Ghorepani and Poon Hill trek?

The trek entails moderate daylong hikes through forests, villages, and terracing fields. Increasing in altitude is done in a gradual manner, accompanied by a lot of resting for acclimatization to occur. The hike to Poon Hill requires a very early morning rise. The trail is good, making it worthwhile from the beginning.

What do we transfer from Ghorepani to Annapurna Base Camp in the Helicopter?

The helicopter will pick you up after breakfast in Ghorepani and transfer you directly to 4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp. This flight is truly spectacular, affording views of valleys, glaciers, and Himalayan ridgelines. You will avoid the necessity of a high-altitude trek while still finding yourself immersed in the grandeur of ABC.

Are meals included during the trek?

Yes, the itinerary includes breakfast in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and along the trek. Lunch and dinner are provided during trekking days in Banthati and Ghorepani. All meals are designed to keep you energized for hiking and sightseeing.

How long is the helicopter flight to Annapurna Base Camp?

The helicopter flight from Ghorepani to Annapurna Base Camp takes about 25 minutes. The flight back to Pokhara takes the same amount of time. The two flights give a spectacular view of the Annapurna range, as well as the valleys in the vicinity.

Can I spend some time in Pokhara once the trek is over?

Yes, Pokhara is indeed the last leg when we travel back by helicopter, so you have some time to unwind in Pokhara. You could walk around Phewa Lake, and we could spend some time in the market or in a comfortable hotel. The scenery in Pokhara is also to be admired, with mountains like Annapurna towering above it.

Is acclimatization a concern on this itinerary?

Because the trek to the moderate elevations is not on foot but by helicopter, acclimatization is not a concern. You will be able to see Annapurna Base Camp without having to withstand the effects of high altitudes for an extended period. Guides will keep a check on how you are performing.

What should I pack for this trek?

You should pack layered clothing suitable for trekking and variable mountain weather, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves. Comfortable hiking shoes, a small daypack, and personal essentials are recommended.

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