Mount Everest: Day Trips and Tours from Kathmandu

Have you ever wanted to see the top of Mount Everest without risking the climb? Well, on a day trip to Mount Everest from Kathmandu, you can.

Hitch a ride in an airplane or helicopter and admire the summit of the world’s tallest mountain within a matter of hours. Soar over the Himalayas and enjoy breakfast at one of the world’s highest hotels. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t soon forget.

Here's all you need to know about Mount Everest, one of the most awe-inspiring day trips from Kathmandu.

How to get to Mount Everest from Kathmandu?

The straight line distance between Mount Everest and Kathmandu is 160 kilometers. However, there is no direct overland route. The most accessible way to reach Mount Everest from Kathmandu within a day is by helicopter or airplane.

From Kathmandu to Mount Everest by air

The most direct way of reaching Mount Everest from Kathmandu is by helicopter or airplane. Some flights pass by the mountain ranges in a 1-hour trip, while others may stop at Lukla airport and Kala Patthar, giving you time to experience the views.

Guided tour to Mount Everest from Kathmandu

Enjoy a guided day tour to Mount Everest from Kathmandu, where your guides will handle the logistics of a helicopter or airplane flight. Within a couple of hours, you will see the summit of Mount Everest.

What is the typical itinerary?

Your day trip itinerary to Mount Everest will depend on whether you take a helicopter tour or an airplane tour.

However, both tours will typically start with meeting your guides at the airport or being picked up from your accommodation in Kathmandu.

If you are joining an airplane tour, you will be in the air for 1 spectacular hour viewing the Himalayas. With a designated window seat, you are sure to have a perfect sighting of Mount Everest.

On a helicopter tour, you’ll have multiple landings. Stop at Lukla to refuel and see where many hikers begin their multi-day trek.

Fly over Everest Base Camp and land at Kala Patthar for a photo opportunity of Mount Everest. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast among the towering Himalayan peaks at the world's highest hotel.

At the end of your flight, return to your accommodation having just encountered the world’s highest mountain.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Mount Everest?

From airplane trips to helicopter excursions, you can choose the ideal tour to visit Mount Everest according to your budget and wishes.

Airplane tours to Mount Everest from Kathmandu

On an airplane tour to Mount Everest, you can expect to depart from Kathmandu Valley and soar over the Himalayas towards Mount Everest.

With each person guaranteed a window seat, you will be able to view some of the highest mountains in the world, from Shishapangma to Cho-Oyu and, of course, Mount Everest — all within 1 hour.

Helicopter tours to Mount Everest from Kathmandu

For a flight that gives you the option to stop and soak up the mountain air, join a helicopter tour to Mount Everest.

This tour typically lasts approximately 4 hours and includes stops at Lukla and Kala Patthar. You can also enjoy breakfast at one of the world’s highest hotels before returning to Kathmandu.

Private helicopter tour to Mount Everest from Kathmandu

For a more intimate experience, you enjoy a private helicopter tour to Mount Everest. Many private tours are for a maximum of two people, ensuring personal attention from your guide on your epic journey.

Enjoy stops at Lukla and Kala Patthar, and breakfast at a hotel. Your tour may also include a visit to the Tengboche Monastery.

Multi-day tours to Mount Everest from Kathmandu

If you do wish to hike among the Himalayas towards Mount Everest, you can join a multi-day tour from Kathmandu.

Over approximately 12 days, trek from Kathmandu towards the base of Mount Everest. With the support of a guide, you are in for an immersive and challenging experience in the mountains.

How much does a day trip to Mount Everest from Kathmandu cost?

An airplane tour to Mount Everest from Kathmandu can start at US$180 per person, excluding pickup and drop-off.

A helicopter tour to Mount Everest starts at approximately US$1,150 per person, excluding breakfast.

A private helicopter tour to Mount Everest starts at US$2,200 for a group of two, including hotel transfers but excluding breakfast.

A multi-day tour hiking to Mount Everest can cost US$7,100 for a group of nine people.

What will you see and do?

Mount Everest

Towering at a height of 8,849 meters, Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth.

Its first documented summit was completed successfully in 1953 by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay and has become the zenith of mountaineering ever since.

Thousands of people have tried to climb this peak, and many have died in their attempts. For a safer journey, you can still encounter this majestic mountain from the air.

Lukla

Regarded as the world’s most dangerous airport, stopping at Lukla is an experience of its own. Helicopters stop here to defuel and reduce weight in order to continue the high-altitude journey.

While here, you can admire the starting location for the hikers who are embarking on their trek to Everest Base Camp and Mount Everest.

Kala Patthar

Located at an elevation of over 5,000 meters, Kala Patthar is an ideal viewing point for Mount Everest. Land here in your helicopter and take the time to capture the panoramic views of the highest peak and surrounding mountains.

Hotel Everest View

Hotel Everest View holds the Guinness World Record for being the highest-altitude hotel at 3,960 meters.

With stunning views of Mount Everest and its surrounds, this is one of the most unique and beautiful places where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast.

When is the best time to visit Mount Everest?

The best time to visit Mount Everest is in the spring (April-May) when conditions are at their clearest. Alternatively, autumn (September-November) also offers ideal weather conditions and fewer crowds.

Travel tips

• Give yourself a couple of open days on either side of your tour booking. The weather can be unpredictable, and you may need to change the date of your flight.
• Remember to bring along your passport and ID.
• Pack warm clothes for the high-altitude journey.
• Take your camera to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience.