For
the traveller who is unable to make a trekking trip to the mountains
either because lack of time or physical fitness, or due to sheer
want of the adventure streak, there are mountain flights to simulate
the experience.
For millennia, the Himalayas have had a grip on
the world's imagination. The sheer majesty and grandeur of the lofty,
snow-capped mountains have inspired awe, curiosity and reverence.
Tens of thousands of visitors from the world over
come to Nepal annually, as English climber George Leigh Mallory
would say, because they are there. But not all who visit the Himalayan
kingdom can afford the time and the stamina to be on the mountains.
You can, however, afford to be with us on our exhilarating Himalayan
Spectacular that shows you the mountains from the closest range
possible.
FAQs
What to expect during the flight?
The one hour flight takes you within camera range of some of the
highest peaks in the world, and cruising this close to the awe-inspiring
massifs of rock and ice, is an out-of-this earth experience. The
aircraft takes off and heads eastward and almost immediately, the
peaks come into view. The first peak that appears on your horizon
is the majestic Gosaithan, standing 8,013m tall. To its right, appears
Dorje Lhakpa (6,966m), looking like a massive figure of 8, lying
prone and covered in snow. To its right is Phurbi Chyachu, which
looms over the Kathmandu Valley.
Next on your vision is Choba Bhamare, rather small
in this company at 5,933m, but singularly stubborn as it remains
unconquered to this day. Then comes Mt. Gaurishanker (7,134m), standing
out sharp and conspicuous-Hindus believe that Lord Shiva and his
consort Parvati protect this mountain.
As the flight move toward the eastern Himalaya,
a succession of majestic mountains follows. Melungtse, with a plateau-like
top stand at 7,023m; Chugimago is at 6,297m, and still remains to
be scaled. Mt. Numbur stands at 6,956m. Then, Karyolung, a gleaming-white
mountain at 6,511m, and cho-Oyu, the sixth highest in the world
at 8,021 m.
The last and most exciting stretch of the journey
takes you close to the 7,952m tall Gyanchungkang, which is considered
an extremely tough climb. To its right is Pumori at 7,161m and Nuptse
at 7,855m. Finally, there is Mt. Everest itself (8,848m), called
Sagarmatha by the Nepalese and Chomolungma by the Tibetans. It is
an altogether different feeling as one comes face to face with the
world's tallest and most enigmatic of mountains. Mountain flights
are also conducted from Pokhara.
Can we charter? Helicopters and
Aircraft are also available for charter use, especially for group
treks and expeditions. STOL (Short Take Off and Landing) airstrips
are located throughout the country.