Trip Highlights
- Marvelous Helicopter Ride from Kathmandu to Muktinath
- Scenic view of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project
- Semi-arid landscape of the Mustang region
- Dramatic views of Himalayas - Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and the Manaslu range
- Jomsom - the district center of the Mustang region
- Kagbeni - the gateway of restricted Upper Mustang and a holy place
- Muktinath Temple - one of the most visited Hindu pilgrimage destinations in the world
- Worship Lord Vishnu - one of the most prominent Hindu deities
- Take a spiritual bath under 108 water sprouts
- Dip into the holy ponds
Overview
[Making Peace with the Gods]
The Muktinath Helicopter Tour is a holy tour of spiritual meaning. Muktinath physically sits in the northwest part of Nepal, in the lap of the Annapurna Himalayas. The visit by chopper takes pilgrims to one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage destinations in the world, & is known to be an iconic divine journey of ultimate importance before leaving this world for Hindus. The air tour by helicopter takes off from both Kathmandu (about 3 hours round trip) and Pokhara (about 2 hours round trip), allowing you about an hour for worshipping and taking a holy bath at the temple. The trip in the sky takes you above some spectacular landscapes of the Annapurna region initially and ultimately flies above the Kaligandaki River valley in the famous Mustang region. There’s a stopover at Jomsom for refueling (if you are flying from Kathmandu) and flies to Muktinath, which is a blessed town, at the footsteps of the Thorong-La Pass of Annapurna.
While going through your rituals at the Muktinath Temple, the scenic landscapes around gives you a holy serene experience which is ideal for a pilgrimage trip said to wash away the sins of a lifetime, according to mythological beliefs. The helicopter tour begins early in the morning as the Kaligandaki River valley remains extremely windy during noontime. This air tour by helicopter is very safe & helpful in the sense it avoids all the sneaky road drives & landslides that occasionally occur in this area. The Muktinath holy tour is considered highly beneficial & safe for family groups with children, the disabled & senior citizens.
Muktinath Helicopter Tour is highly pleasing for pilgrims who wish to visit one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage temples of incredible scenic beauty in a single day. It's a great option even for people who don’t have enough time to go by road or take multiple days’ journeys with several halts in between. The pilgrimage is done to gain salvation at the Holy Muktinath temple by taking a holy bath and performing ritual pujas. Furthermore, the exploration of stunning nature within the Annapurna and Mustang region adds to the glitter of this holy trip which helps Hindu devotees to make peace with their gods.
This impressive Muktinath Helicopter Tour can be organized from both Kathmandu and Pokhara, based on what your schedules allow for. During the tour, passengers get to see diverse attractions of Mother Nature and culture displayed in all its majestic beauty.
The lush scenery of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is where it all begins, which is followed by the breathtaking Himalayan skylines of Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Fishtail, Tilicho Peak, & most of Manaslu Himalayan range as the helicopter ride moves towards the Mustang region. The wide rolling spans of the Kali Gandaki River and the ethnic settlements further charm travelers with exceptional and breathtaking valleys.
Flying above the district center of Mustang - Jomsom, the Muktinath Helicopter tours offer some of the hidden views around Kagbeni and some parts of Upper Mustang, before the helicopter lands at Muktinath. It's a brief hike up to the temple, where you can get a pony ride to ease the heights in the thin-air region. Muktinath means salvation, and people worship Lord Vishnu. The 19th-century Hindu shrine is one of the eight most visited Hindu pilgrimage sites around Earth. Taking a holy bath under the 108 water sprouts and dipping in the holy ponds, brings salvation to devotees, it’s believed. Amid the holy surroundings, even the Buddhist sites attract the attention of pilgrims.
Everest Chopper with its professional team organizes Muktinath Helicopter Tour to provide pilgrims with a lifetime experience of the spiritual and divine. We operate the tour by customizing the itinerary based on your preference, either from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Muktinath Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu – A complete Divine air tour
Muktinath Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu is a great opportunity to appreciate luxurious tour options towards a world-famous Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage destination - the Muktinath temple. The tour takes off from the domestic airport of Kathmandu and flies above the Annapurna region, crosses the Annapurna range, and enters the Mustang region of the Kali Gandaki River valley. It's a direct helicopter trip from Kathmandu to Mustang, consisting of 3 hours back and forth along with an hour of worshipping and enough time for a Holy bath.
Taking a direct helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Mustang avoids further trip arrangements of connecting flights and slow paperwork. Right after taking off, the huge Himalayan scenery of the Langtang region, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu region warms your soul deeply. The temple is located at an altitude of 3710 meters, beyond the Annapurna region, surrounded by picturesque Himalayan peaks of the Annapurna chain.
For the hassle-free arrangement of the Muktinath Helicopter Tour from Kathmandu, please do not hesitate to contact Everest Chopper for a wonderful kind of pilgrimage experience.
Please Note: The helicopter only can carry a maximum number of 5 individuals at once, not exceeding 500 kg in weight.
Muktinath Helicopter Tour Duration
The total duration for Pokhara to Muktinath by Helicopter flight is around 2.5 hours - 45min X 2 flight time and 1- hour land time
The entire duration for Kathmandu to Muktinath by Helicopter flight is around 3.5 hours
Pokhara to Muktinath Helicopter Flight Time
- Pokhara to Muktinath: 45 minutes
- Muktinath to Pokhara: 45 minutes
- Helicopter Waiting (Puja Ritual): 1 hour
Kathmandu to Muktinath Helicopter Flight Time
- Kathmandu to Muktinath: 1 hour
- Muktinath to Kathmandu: 1 hour
- Helicopter Waiting (Puja Ritual): 1 hour
Itinerary
6: 00 AM: Pickup from Hotel and Transfer to Tribhuvan Domestic Airport
We pick you up early in the morning and transfer you to the domestic airport of Kathmandu by private vehicle.
6: 30 AM: Check-in at Airport and Transfer to Helipad
First, we check in at the domestic airport for the procedure. After getting a boarding pass, transfer to the helipad, where the helicopter takes off.
7: 00 AM: Fly to Jomsom. Enjoy the view of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Langtang Ranges
The impressive and thrilling chopper ride from Kathmandu offers incredible views of terraced hillside, Rivers, and dramatic valleys. Then we move towards Jomsom, exploring enticing Himalayan sceneries of Mount Annapurna chain, Dhaulagiri, Langtang range, Manaslu, and the surrounding vistas. The flight duration will be about an hour. The scenery from above touches the soul deeply & prepares you for the kind of nature that’s required on a pilgrimage trip.
8: 00 AM: Land at Jomsom for refueling.
Flying above the dramatic Kali Gandaki River valley and exploring the magnificent Tilicho Peak and Nilgiri, we land at Jomsom, which is the headquarters of the Mustang region. It has the facilities of bank, hotels and administrative offices. It is a place to refuel the helicopter.
8: 10 AM: Fly to Muktinath. Take Bath and Do Puja.
From Jomsom, we fly to Muktinath. It's about 10 minutes flight to land at Muktinath, a delightful town at 3700 meters altitude. We land just below the Muktinath temple and a short hike takes us to the temple. If you feel uneasy due to the altitude, a horse ride can be done. You will get about 30-40 minutes to take a holy bath and go through holy rituals. It is believed that by taking a holy bath and doing Puja, your sins of a lifetime will be washed away. Muktinath literally means a place for salvation. After the completion of Puja, we hike a bit downhill and have breakfast.
9:20 AM: Fly back to Jomsom.
From Muktinath, our chopper ride takes off and lands at Jomsom again for refueling and a short break.
9: 30 AM: Fly to Kathmandu.
From the district center of Mustang, we commence our scenic helicopter ride to Kathmandu, exploring the breathtaking Himalayan vistas of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Langtang region. Then we land at the domestic airport of Kathmandu.
10:30 AM: Transfer to Hotel.
We receive you at the airport after your arrival and transfer you to the Hotel. A day with a helicopter tour to Muktinath concludes here with unforgettable memories.
Muktinath Helicopter Tour from Pokhara – The ‘City of Lakes’ with a holy shrine…The ultimate pilgrims air tour
Your Muktinath Helicopter Tour from Pokhara is a fast and exceptional trip of 2 hours. It takes about half an hour to reach the Muktinath temple flying from the domestic airport of Pokhara, while making the best of opportunities to explore heartwarming vistas of the lush forests, gorges, Annapurna Himalayan chain, and ultimately the scenic paradise of the Mustang region. The tour allows an hour to complete a holy bath and ritual puja at the Muktinath temple premises.
The Muktinath heli-tour takes off early in the morning from Pokhara to make the best of the flying weather in the Himalayan region. The close-up views of the gorgeous pyramid peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri chain along with Manaslu offers you a passionate spiritual experience.
The green landscapes of the Annapurna region overlaps to the semi-arid landscape of the Mustang region and you fly above the widespread Kali Gandaki River valley. The holy Shaligrams are found nearby the River, which is a significant rock fossil according to Hindu mythology. With a thorough view of the hidden rubies of the Mustang and Upper Mustang terrain, it lands nearby the Muktinath temple. You are given an hour to complete your holy bath and ritual Puja at the premises of the temple and then head back to the helipad.
It is important to manage time to avoid the windy weather which gets wild across the alpine valleys that might obstruct the helicopter tour in Mustang. It gets very windy in the afternoons.
As per your preference, Himalayan Spirit Adventure organizes a private helicopter charter and group joining helicopter tours from Pokhara, including a maximum of 5 individuals. Group joining trips are often available in the peak seasons like spring and autumn.
Detailed Itinerary that tells you what to expect
6: 00 AM: Pickup from Hotel and Transfer to Pokhara Airport.
Early in the morning, we pick you up for the exclusively thrilling but incredibly rewarding Helicopter tour to Muktinath and transfer you to the Pokhara airport.
6: 30 AM: Check-in at Airport and Transfer to Helipad.
We complete our check-in process at the airport and transfer you to the helipad. After a brief description of the ride and safety, you hop into your helicopter.
7: 00 AM: Fly to Muktinath Take Bath and Do Ritual Puja. (30 minutes flight, 1 hour for rituals)
About an hour of breathtaking chopper ride from Pokhara takes off and flies above lush green areas of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Even the snowy glittering peaks of Mount Annapurna, Fishtail, Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri can be seen which leaves you breathless. Then you fly above the Kali Gandaki River gorge, which has been spread widely. Exploring the semi-arid landscape of the Mustang region and the exceptional view of the Mustang region and the Kali Gandaki valley, the beautiful town of Kagbeni, we land at Muktinath- a Himalayan paradise, proceed to the Muktinath temple. The outstanding setting surrounded by the Himalayas, Muktinath temple is a pilgrimage destination for Hindu devotees, where people seek salvation by taking a holy bath and performing the ritual, Puja. When this is done, we hike downhill and have breakfast. You get about 1 hour at Muktinath for a ritual bath, puja, and breakfast.
08: 30 AM: Fly to Pokhara from Muktinath.
Feeling blessed and salvation, we take off from Muktinath and fly further exploring the immensely picturesque Mustang region through the passage between the Dhaulagiri range and Annapurna range. After half an hour of breathtaking chopper ride, we land at Pokhara airport.
09:00 AM: Transfer to Hotel.
We receive you at the domestic airport of Pokhara and transfer you to the hotel. Have a great day ahead.
Essential Information
Why do people visit Muktinath Temple?
Muktinath Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Nepal for Hindu devotees. People visit this temple due to the mythological belief that your sins will be washed away if you pay homage to the Muktinath temple. This is also a wonderful destination for travelers with its chocolate box settings surrounded by the impressive Himalayan peaks of the Annapurna region. The wide terrain, sandy cliffs, and snowy summits are some of the major attractions of this location.
What is the Weight Limit of the Muktinath Helicopter Tour?
The weight limitation for a helicopter tour is 500 kg, excluding the captain and it can accommodate a maximum of 5 pax. We operate the group joining a tour with a minimum requirement of 3 pax.
Weather and Climate
The weather condition cannot be predicted exactly as this is mountain terrain situated at an altitude. The Mustang region, where the Muktinath temple is located, remains cool in the morning till noon. The crystal-clear weather allows incredible Himalayan views but it remains an extremely windy afternoon. It is a Himalayan rain shadow area, so rain is very rare in the Mustang region. Due to weather conditions, the helicopter can only fly early in the morning.
What are the Helicopter Models used for Muktinath Helicopter Flight?
We offer unique helicopter tours in various destinations for more than a decade. All the trips are safe and operated with timely serviced helicopters of various models.
Different helicopter models are used for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. They are well-maintained, reliable, and offer safe Himalayan journeys. With the rules of the Nepal government, the helicopters can carry 5 passengers at once, so, including captains, there will be six people maximum at once.
Model: AS350B3e is used, which has been manufactured by Airbus, France. It has got Ariel 2D engine type. The maximum take off weight is 2250 KG, with 5 passengers capacity excluding the captain, which can operate at a maximum altitude of 23000 feet.
Model: AS350 FX II is another type of helicopter built by Airbus, France. It has got LTS – 101 700D2 engine type. The maximum take off weight is 2250 KG, with 5 passengers capacity excluding the captain, which can operate at a maximum altitude of 23000 feet.
Model: AS350 BA, which has been built by Airbus, France, has got Ariel 1B engine type. The maximum take off weight is 2100 KG, with 5 passengers' capacity excluding captain, which can operate at a maximum altitude of 16,000 feet.
How to Deal with Altitude Sickness?
High altitude sickness is a disorder that people might feel above 3000 meters altitude. It is directly connected to altitude adaptation, which makes people have difficulty in breathing. Altitude sickness is also called Acute Mountain Sickness [AMS].
The ultimate altitude of Annapurna Base Camp is 4130 meters, which is not a risky zone of getting caught with altitude sickness. It's very unlikely to be suffering from AMS. However, you may experience it accidentally once you get out of the helicopter. Mild headache and dizziness can be the common symptoms you feel at ABC. Initially, you will be given oxygen support in the helicopter as there will be oxygen cylinders in every helicopter. If it's a bit risky case, flying back to lower altitude levels is one of the best options available.
You will get a maximum of half an hour of landing time at the Annapurna base camp. You walk around and get plenty of spectacular glimpses of the mighty Himalayan peaks like Mt. Annapurna & its amphitheater of peaks.
What are the important Safety Measures for Muktinath Helicopter Tour?
There are several kinds of essential safety measures for the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour. It starts from your entry into the aircraft, where you should follow the captain's instructions and also at the exit.
- If you are in a group, do not move from your place during the flight or exchange your seats with other travelers
- You should not put your hands or head out of the window and do remember to keep your belongings safe.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the helicopter and it's very sensible
- Please, do remember to tighten your seat belt properly.
- If you feel any breathing problem or dizziness, let your captain know about it.
POST COVID-19 & its prevention
- Helicopters are sanitized properly in every nook & cranny with spray
- You should follow the safety instructions like: wearing mask, gloves & sanitising
- Test your temperature before flying
Muktinath Helicopter FAQs – know what is true
FAQ No 01: When to arrive in Nepal?
We advise you to arrive in Kathmandu at least a day before we start any heli-tour. You will have enough time to buy whatever you may need. You will be oriented at your hotel about the helicopter tour you have chosen.
FAQ No 02: Is Breakfast Included During the Trip?
Usually yes. If you take a helicopter tour from Kathmandu, you have breakfast at Muktinath for sure. But, flying from Pokhara, depends on the schedule we customize.
FAQ No 03: What Is the Payment Method If We Book Directly Through Your Company?
You have a choice for the payment method - either by transferring the trip cost in our company's bank account; or send us the mentioned amount via Western Union Money Transfer. We also accept card swipes.
FAQ No 04: Are There Weight Limits on The Flights?
A chopper has got 500 kg weight limit, excluding the captain. Therefore, it is sufficient to carry 5 individuals on each flight in most cases. After all, you just need a day pack to carry what you need for a single day.
FAQ No 05: Is There an Age Limit While Travelling in A Helicopter?
There is no such age limit while traveling in a helicopter unless you have a different condition of doctor's restrictions. We must be informed in advance of any medical conditions you may have before the trip.
FAQ No 06: Do You Charge for Kids Coming to Fly with You as Passengers?
In private chartered helicopter rides, we don't charge for kids. If you are with a group joining the trip, each individual should pay the trip cost.
FAQ No 07: Are Helicopter Flights Affected by Weather Conditions?
Weather conditions directly affect helicopter flights. The Muktinath Helicopter tour takes off early in the morning and we expect good weather. During the Afternoon time, the Kali Gandaki valley remains extremely windy; this is not a suitable time to fly.
FAQ No 08: How High Could You Possibly Fly and With How Many Passengers?
The helicopter has got a capacity of 5 passengers, with a weight limit of 500 kg. But, from 4000 meters altitude, it comprises 3 passengers at once due to the high altitude. The helicopter does not fly at very high altitudes, i.e. Mt. Everest.
FAQ No 09: When Are Your Peak Seasons?
The peak seasons are spring, autumn, and winter for helicopter tours in Nepal. The weather is simply marvelous during these seasons and travelers prefer to explore the crystal-clear views of the Himalayas and its surroundings. Winter can be cold at altitude, so spring and autumn is always the best time for a helicopter tour in Nepal – a country called ‘an abode for the gods’’…