Comprehending the colossal heights of Mount Everest firsthand is an awe-inspiring sight. Yet gliding over the majestic mountain peaks and witnessing this formidable range on a private helicopter ride takes this experience to an entirely different level. During this thrilling aerial and ground adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to explore eight of the highest peaks in Nepal from different perspectives.
The Kingdom of Nepal boasts eight of the tallest mountains in the world and a remarkable collection of ancient Hindu and Buddhist sites. From Kathmandu Valley’s legendary cities where medieval palaces, temples and cultural treasures date back thousands of years to the unique outdoor adventures across the rest of the country, there is much to cover. This is where Explorations Company’s expertise comes in, giving you unprecedented access to incredible sights and experiences not usually offered elsewhere. For example, you might visit the Himalayan peaks with an expert Sherpa guide who will share their intimate knowledge of summitting Everest. Or benefit from fascinating stories and the in-depth knowledge of a well-known heritage expert in Kathmandu who shows you the delights of Bhaktapur and Patan.
"The views are astounding: icy glaciers and soaring peaks of some of the highest mountains in the world."
Highlights include visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Boudhanath in Kathmandu with a Lama who will introduce you to the history of this sacred stupa before lighting butter lamps and enjoying sundowners at one of the city’s rooftop restaurants. Explore the sights and treasures of Old Kathmandu City and enjoy a warm reception from locals. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the colourful vegetable and spice market in Ason with its bustling bazaars during an exciting rickshaw ride through the narrow alleyways – a delightful sensory overload. The next stage of the journey takes you to Lalitpur, the so-called ‘city of artisans.’ Renowned for its cultural heritage and treasure trove of fine arts, highlights include the Palace of the Malla Kings which will be brought to life by a heritage expert. They’ll explain the city’s wonderful collection of well-preserved Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries (vihars), and the work of the valley’s finest craftsmen.
After Kathmandu your journey continues as you take flight by chartered helicopter towards Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Makalu, then onto Lukla. The views are astounding: icy glaciers and soaring peaks of some of the highest mountains in the world. If weather permits you can land at Kangchenjunga and Makalu Base Camp (the third and fifth-highest mountains in the world respectively). Spend the night in one of the finest mountain lodges available in the Everest region which offers unique access to the natural beauty of Everest National Park.
Early the following morning you’ll commence the ultimate flight: a helicopter sightseeing tour of Mount Everest. Take in the phenomenal views of the world’s tallest peak and Everest Base Camp along with breathtaking vistas of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, the Khumbu Glacier and Gokyo Lake. Fly onwards to Cho Oyu Base Camp for views of the Tibetan Plateau from 16,100 feet.
You’ll spend the next few days taking chartered helicopter tours of the world’s highest mountains including Manaslu, which translates to “Mountain of the Spirit” in Sanskrit, Mount Dhaulagiri & Mount Annapurna. On the way back, there’s an opportunity to visit a nearby village accompanied by an expert guide and delight in a cultural performance by the Tharu community. You’ll also have the chance to engage with a local charity of your choosing, focusing on human trafficking perhaps or youth empowerment initiatives.
Your final destination is the traditional Newari settlement of Dhulikhel. This old town boasts stunning natural beauty and is highly popular for its splendid sunrise and sunset views given its vantage point over the Himalayas. Take time strolling through the narrow cobbled lanes discovering Hindu Shrines and Buddhist Stupas whilst soaking up the scenery and indulging in treatments at the luxurious Dwarika’s Resort.
This unique journey also offers an opportunity to explore other important destinations in the country, including Bandipur, Pokhara with its serene mountainscapes and turquoise lakes and Chitwan, one of the finest national parks in Asia that is famous for its diversity of wildlife including the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
