Annapurna Base Camp Trek Heli Return — 11 Days

The route does not require technical climbing skills in suitable conditions, but it involves consecutive walking days and demanding stair sections. You climb from Birethanti towards Ulleri, then continue through hills and valleys to base camp. The helicopter replaces the return descent, not the uphill effort.

Previous hiking experience is helpful. First-time trekkers should build endurance before departure and become comfortable walking uphill and downhill regularly with a daypack.

Begin preparing around two to three months beforehand, allowing longer if you are starting from a low fitness level. Gradually combine regular walks, hill hikes and strength exercises. Practise in the boots you will wear on the trek.

This itinerary has no dedicated acclimatisation day. The ascent from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp brings a substantial gain in sleeping altitude, so your health must guide your progress.

Tell your guide promptly about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue. Do not continue to a higher sleeping altitude while experiencing symptoms of altitude illness. If symptoms worsen despite resting at the same elevation, descent is necessary. The planned helicopter return must not delay urgent decisions.

If you have an existing medical condition, seek advice from a healthcare professional familiar with high-altitude travel before booking. Discuss your planned route and any medicines you take.

Arrange insurance covering trekking to at least 4,130 metres, planned helicopter travel, emergency evacuation and medical treatment in Nepal. Check exclusions, excess charges and the insurer’s assistance procedure. Carry your policy details and emergency contact number throughout the trek and the flight stages.

You stay in three-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with breakfast included, and twin-sharing teahouses during the trekking section. Annapurna Base Camp is your highest overnight stop before the helicopter return.

Expect simple rooms and shared bathroom facilities at Deurali and Annapurna Base Camp. Room arrangements and comfort vary between lodges, particularly during busy periods. Nights at base camp can be cold, even during spring and autumn trekking.

Three daily meals are included during the walking approach. Teahouse menus commonly offer dal bhat, noodles, potatoes, soups and other straightforward meals.

Tell us about allergies or dietary requirements before booking so we can discuss what can be arranged along the route. Explain strict requirements clearly, including any concerns about shared cooking equipment.

Carry reusable bottles and drink boiled or appropriately treated water. Stream water and untreated tap water may still contain germs that cause illness.

Boiling is the most reliable way to kill germs. If boiling is unavailable, filtration followed by disinfection offers broader protection than many portable filters alone. Follow the instructions for your water-treatment equipment or tablets.

A trekking guide and one porter for every two trekkers are included. Your porter carries the luggage during the approach. You carry a daypack with daily essentials; confirm how bags return to Pokhara.

Hot showers, Wi-Fi and device charging may incur personal charges, with availability varying between lodges. Mobile reception and internet can be unreliable higher in the valley. Carry a power bank and let family know that you may be out of contact during parts of the trek.

The ACAP entry permit is included. TIMS registration is also required under Nepal Tourism Board rules; confirm its fee coverage with us. Carry your passport and insurance details. Your Nepal visa is separate from the package.

The helicopter return and Pokhara–Kathmandu flight depend on weather and operating conditions. Allow extra time before international departure rather than relying on fixed schedules.

Ask about the helicopter’s passenger and luggage allowances before booking. If flights are delayed, our team discusses available options and additional accommodation or transport.