Pickup time by 6:30 a.m. Flight Time from 7 to 8 a.m. as weather wise. Duration of flight with stops: 1-2 hours. Back to Hotel by 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. Flight distance of 51 km / 32 miles from Pokhara to Muktinath Temple area, one way.
Morning as time for transfer to Pokhara domestic airport, a short drive to the airport terminal. After security formalities head towards Helipad, where airlines staff and pilot welcomes you with introduction. Board on a well seated and spacious chopper according to group size, and then getting ready for the exciting flight.
During flight enjoy super views of Pokhara city and the scenic valley, rising high views of Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayas. Includes superb close views of majestic Machhapuchare Himal, the famed Fish Tail that dominates the Pokhara valley. The view extends as far towards Mt. Dhaulagiri in the west, as the chopper heads towards north-west above rolling hills. Flying high and close above world deepest gorge of Kaligandaki River; sandwiched between 7th high Mt. Dhaulagiri and 10th highest Mt. Annapurna-I.
From green forested valley and hill, the journey reaches a barren windswept plain of Kaligandaki River plain at Jomsom. The headquarters town of Mustang and the route to Muktinath and Upper Mustang towards Tibet / China border. A nice large town with a small airstrip, landing at Jomsom for short refreshing breaks. To get glimpse of the local Thakali people cultures, the indigenous habitants of Lower Mustang and Kaligandaki River valley. From Jomsom a short flight above the windswept river valley to land near Muktinath Temple premises. A small Helipad just outside the temple, a short walk up to enter tranquil surrounding towards the main temple.
Observe the pilgrims on prayer and worship, after getting holy wash from the beautiful old 108 water spouts. The origin of Muktinath site and the temple is related to 19th Centurry. It is believed that Lord Vishnu Temple was hallowed by the Hindu’s, as well visited by a famous Tibetan saint. By the Guru Shabkar in 1818, mediated and got connected with this holy place. Enjoy the peaceful environment and get blessed from the priest, and explore the surrounding important holy sites.
Completing the refreshing morning tour of the sacred site, the holiest of all holy sites of Muktinath. Then get on board for sweeping scenic flight back to Pokhara, after a glorious, wonderful experience on Muktinath Helicopter Tour.
The holy temple of Muktinath located Nepal Far North West, around the district of Mustang. Which is on the trail of old Trans Himalayan Salt and Caravan route to Nepal and Tibet border via Upper Mustang. The headquarters town of the Mustang area is Jomsom, situated on the shelf of Kaligandaki River.
Where travelers can reach by short flight from Pokhara to Jomsom town airport, and drive or walk to Muktinath. The driving distance from Pokhara to Muktinath is 168 km. / 104.39 miles. Takes more than 7-8 hours. Due to rough dirt road conditions. But on a helicopter is just 51 km / 32 miles air distance of less than an hour flight.
Accommodates about 5 passengers in AS 350 B, Euro Copter for above 6 to 10, chartering bigger Helicopter like MI 17. A Russian built Helicopter also used for cargo and passengers in Nepal Mountainous region.
Depending upon the seasons, but mostly for all seasons carry a light day pack with necessary items for the morning trip. Wearing warm clothes, down jacket, sun hat and woolen tops, scarf, sun-glass and sun-blocks. On higher altitude the sun is bright with strong UV, needs protection against the bright sunlight.
Wearing boots, or sport shoes, might need to walk for short distance around Muktinath Temple premises. As well some money for refreshment drinks and breakfast at a village near Muktinath temple or in Jomsom, time permitting and weather wise.
At least a month ahead or minimum of a week or few days, after paying the amount charged for the flight. Full payment should be made before boarding the helicopter for Muktinath Helicopter tour. The cost depends upon the number of passengers or for chartering as private for one family or friends.
All age group are allowed on this helicopter tour to Muktinath from Pokhara to Pokhara. But the passengers requires personal medical / travel insurance in case of sudden illness as per own medical history background.
However all passengers needs to be in sound health as well for young children, for below 18 years, must be accompanied by parents of guardian.
