Major Attractions of the Upper Mustang Helicopter Tour
- Travellers can witness the stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and other surrounding peaks that look breathtaking.
- The scenic helicopter flight to Upper Mustang provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the grandeur of the stunning snow-capped peaks and the dramatic landscapes.
- The famous traditional village of Jomsom is the entry point to the Upper Mustang region, where trekkers can get a great opportunity to interact with local people and experience their warm hospitality and friendly nature.
- Flying over the UNESCO-listed walled city, Lo-Manthang is the capital of Upper Mustang, rich in Tibetan culture, home to ancient monasteries and sky caves, and the perfect place to enjoy the unbelievable beauty of nature.
- Explore the Tibetan-influenced architecture of ancient monasteries, such as Thubchen and Chode, which hold significant spiritual and cultural beliefs for the local Thakali community.
- Witness the stunning views of the flowing Kali Gandaki River, known for being one of the deepest gorges in the world.
- The Upper Mustang region is famous for its ancient sky caves, carved into cliff faces, which were historically used for habitation and meditation.
Best Season for Tour
Nepal is home to some of the tallest snow-capped Himalayas, renowned for trekking, expeditions, and helicopter tours. Many travellers dream of exploring Nepal's majestic Himalayan ranges at least once in their lifetime. When planning to explore Manaslu and other high peaks, choosing the right season is essential.
Ideal Seasons for Helicopter Tours to Manaslu
- March to June: This period marks the transition from spring to summer, offering pleasant weather and blooming landscapes. The mild temperatures make it an ideal time for helicopter tours, allowing you to enjoy stunning views of the vibrant scenery below.
- September to December: Autumn brings excellent visibility and spectacular scenery, with mountains crowned in snow. This season is particularly popular among travellers, as the clear skies provide breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas.
These two periods are the best times to experience the beauty of Upper Mustang on a helicopter tour. One of the advantages of this tour is that it eliminates the need for strenuous trekking, making it accessible for a wider range of travellers.
Permits for Helicopter Tour
For a Helicopter Tour in Upper Mustang, you must obtain some permits. They are:
- Special Permit for Restricted Area
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
- Helicopter Landing Permit
Most reputable helicopter tour operators will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits, ensuring that all paperwork is handled efficiently.
Kathmandu to Upper Mustang on Helicopter
The Upper Mustang tour is one of the most famous and best destinations, offering diverse landscapes, breathtaking Himalayan scenery, ancient history, and the remote livelihood of the people. The Mustang Helicopter Tour opened for foreigners in 1992 A.D.; It covers several popular trekking routes: Jomsom Muktinath, Damodar Kunda, the stunning views of the Kali Gandaki River, and its gaps along with the scattered ethnic settlements by the river. The Upper Mustang region, also known as the last Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal, offers a great trekking and touring experience.
Starting from Kathmandu, this helicopter flight offers the great beauty of remote Nepal. From bustling cities to lush hills, cascading waterfalls, charming villages, and rugged mountain and desert-like terrain, this helicopter tour offers a perfect blend of nature that every traveller wants to witness. The helicopter landed in Jomsom to refuel. There you stop for around 15 minutes. This allows you to explore Jomsom, which is a perfect place to interact with the local Thakali people and learn about their culture and traditions. Experience the warm and loving hospitality of the friendly people.
From Jomsom, continue flying to Lo-Manthang, a place strongly influenced by Tibetan culture. The Heli tour offers views of the snow-peaked mountains of Annapurna Himalaya, Dhaulagiri, the Manaslu range, and the Tukuche Peaks. The Mustang helicopter tour takes you through a deserted landscape in Nepal, with cave-like settlements. The people practice Buddhism, and several of the oldest monasteries are located here. Most were made in the 11th century. A short interaction with our guide provided adequate information about their ancient history and traditions. Mani walls, Chhortens, and prayer flags made the trip exciting and cultural.
After exploring the beauty and culture of Upper Mustang, you will return to Kathmandu via the same route, concluding an unforgettable tour.
Do I Need to Worry About Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, causing the body to struggle with the lower oxygen levels. Although you are exploring Upper Mustang by helicopter, you must be aware of and prepared for altitude sickness. You reach up to 3,840 m during the helicopter tour, where travellers may feel discomfort and difficulty breathing, headaches, fatigue, or other symptoms, so you must be prepared for altitude sickness.
Travellers must carry basic medicines, drink plenty of water, and eat nutritious food, which helps maintain energy levels and keep them comfortable during the tour.
Can I Tour in a Group or Solo?
Yes, you can join a group or tour solo; it all depends on your comfort level and preferences. If you plan to tour Upper Mustang solo by helicopter, it will be a great experience, but it will cost more than a group helicopter tour. Solo tours allow travellers to enjoy the stunning beauty of the high-altitude region in peace and calm. You can plan your itinerary and the duration of the helicopter tour, but the cost remains high.
But if you travel with a group, it will be a great experience. The travel agency can arrange the group, and this allows for shared experiences and social interaction with fellow travellers. The cost is also lower than for a solo tour. And a group discount is also available, so you can tour without stressing about the high fare.
On a group tour, you do not need to worry about permits or other paperwork, as the travel agency will handle them. So, whether you choose a solo or a group helicopter tour in the Upper Mustang, both options provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and explore the stunning landscape of the Upper Mustang.
What to Bring
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
- Fleece Jackets
- Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
- Warm trousers and a T-shirt
- Warm hat
- Sun hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen (SPF + 30 to 50)
- Lip balm
- Personal medications
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Sunglasses (with UV protection)
- Camera or smartphone (with extra batteries/charging cable)
- First-aid kit
- Snacks and energy bars