Bhutan Helicopter Tour
Experience Bhutan’s untouched beauty from an entirely new perspective with helicopter tours that reveal the kingdom’s most spectacular landscapes, ancient monasteries, and towering Himalayan peaks. Two premier operators, Drukair Helicopter Services (Airbus H130) and Heli Bhutan Pvt. Ltd (Airbus H125), offers unparalleled aerial adventures that connect you to the heart of the Himalayas in ways no other mode of transport can achieve.
These flights provide breathtaking views of iconic landmarks, including the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the majestic Mount Jomolhari, and remote valleys that remain largely untouched by modern civilization. With flight durations ranging from 15-75 minutes, helicopter tours offer a unique way to witness Bhutan’s diverse terrain — from lush valleys dotted with traditional dzongs to pristine alpine lakes reflecting snow-capped peaks.
These tours can be seamlessly added to any of our existing tour packages, creating unforgettable memories that capture the true essence of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Below, you can find the Druk Air’s tour packages information:
Heli Picnic Packages
Seven Signature Routes
Chelela Chopper and Chow
A scenic flight to one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes, offering spectacular mountain vistas and a peaceful picnic setting.
15 minutes
30 minutes (complimentary picnic)
320 kg (705 lbs)
250 kg (551 lbs)
- Paro Airport
- Bondey area
- Mt. Jomolhari
- Mt. Jichu Drakey
- Chelela Peak
- Haa Valley
Jela Gourmet Getaway
A culinary adventure combining aerial sightseeing with gourmet experiences in a stunning mountain setting.
15 minutes
30 minutes (complimentary picnic)
350 kg (771 lbs)
280 kg (617 lbs)
- Paro Airport
- Bondey area
- Mt. Jomolhari
- Mt. Jichu Drakey
- Chelela Peak
- Haa Valley
Jimi Langtsho: Crystal Water Joy
Journey to a pristine alpine lake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and experience the tranquility of Bhutan’s high-altitude wilderness.
20 minutes
30 minutes (complimentary picnic)
320 kg (705 lbs)
250 kg (551 lbs)
- Paro Airport & Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Ta Dzong and Paro Valley
- Jela Dzong
- Shari Valley
- Jimi Langtsho
Bumdra Bliss
Soar above sacred monasteries and witness the famous Tiger’s Nest from a unique aerial perspective before landing in serene mountain meadows.
20 minutes
30 minutes (complimentary picnic)
320 kg (705 lbs)
250 kg (551 lbs)
- Paro Airport and Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Ta Dzong and Paro Valley
- Sangchoekhor Monastery
- Tiger’s Nest monastery
- Mt. Jomolhari & Mt. Jichu Drakey
Twin Lakes: Mirror Realm Delights
An extended journey to pristine twin lakes that mirror the surrounding peaks, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities.
60 minutes
60 minutes (complimentary picnic)
260 kg (573 lbs)
210 kg (462 lbs)
- Paro Airport and Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Ta Dzong and Paro Valley
- Sangchoekhor Monastery
- Tiger’s Nest
- Drugyel Dzong
- Lhedi Temple
- Soe Village highlands
- Mt. Jomolhari
- Mt. Jichu Drakey
- Twin Lakes and Turquoise Lake
Thanza Valley Escape: Glaciers and Lakes
The ultimate high-altitude adventure, reaching glacial valleys and remote lakes with views of Bhutan’s highest peaks.
75 minutes
60 minutes (complimentary picnic)
270 kg (595 lbs)
240 kg (529 lbs)
- Rinpung Dzong
- Ta Dzong
- Bemri Monastery
- Dochula
- Buddha Point
- Semthokha Dzong
- Punakha Dzong & Valley
- Kangphu Kang and Jejekangphu Kang
- Gangkhar Puensum
- Thorthormi and Luggye Lakes
- Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey
Jomolhari Base Camp Picnic
Experience the base of Bhutan’s sacred mountain with an exclusive picnic setting surrounded by towering Himalayan giants.
60 minutes
60 minutes (complimentary picnic)
280 kg (617 lbs)
230 kg (507 lbs)
- Paro Airport and Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Ta Dzong and Paro Valley
- Sangchoekhor Monastery
- Tiger’s Nest monastery and Drugyel Dzong
- Lhedi Temple
- Soe Village highlands
- Mt. Jomolhari
- Mt. Jichu Drakey
- Twin Lakes and Turquoise Lake
Important Notices
Please review before booking
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Payload capacity: Helicopter weight capacity varies significantly by season and destination. Total payload ranges from 260 kg (573 lbs), 270 kg (595 lbs), 280 kg (617 lbs), 320 kg (705 lbs) and 350 kg (771 lbs) during winter months (October through March) to 210 kg (462 lbs), 230 kg (507 lbs), 240 kg (529 lbs), 250 kg (551 lbs) during summer months (April through September). The exact number of passengers per flight depends on individual passenger weights and baggage.
Passenger and baggage weights must be verified before boarding due to helicopter weight and balance requirements.
Total passengers and baggage allowed will be subject to performance calculations based on prevailing atmospheric conditions.
Please provide accurate weight information when booking to ensure proper flight planning.
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Unpredictable mountain weather: As a landlocked Himalayan kingdom, Bhutan experiences highly unpredictable weather patterns that can change rapidly.
- Flight schedules may be postponed or cancelled on short notice for safety reasons
- Tour itineraries may require last-minute adjustments based on weather conditions
- Passengers should maintain flexibility and prepare mentally for potential schedule changes
- Weather-related cancellations are beyond operator control and may affect overall tour plans
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Best flight conditions: Morning and early afternoon flights offer the most favorable weather conditions and visibility.
- All passengers must report to the pickup location 30 minutes before the scheduled departure
- Early morning flights may require very early hotel departures (sometimes before dawn)
- Punctuality is essential for safety and operational efficiency
- Late arrivals may result in flight cancellation without refund
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High altitude considerations: Helicopter tours should be scheduled during the final days of your Bhutan visit.
- Spend several days acclimatizing before helicopter flights to high-altitude destinations
- Avoid helicopter tours on your first days in Bhutan
- Gradual altitude exposure helps prevent altitude-related health issues
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Mandatory health disclosure: All passengers must declare any medical conditions that could prevent safe flying above 4,300 m (14,100 feet) without supplemental oxygen.
Medical restrictions: The American Medical Association (AMA) has identified several conditions requiring flight restrictions:
Cardiovascular Conditions:
- Decompensated heart failure or severe heart conditions
- Heart valve disease or recent myocardial infarction
- Angina due to cardiac ischemia
- Recent vascular occlusion or cerebrovascular accidents
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Respiratory Conditions:
- Allergic or infectious sinusitis
- Bronchial asthma or severe respiratory conditions
- Tuberculosis or pneumonia
- Throat and respiratory tract infections
Blood-Related Conditions:
- Severe anemia
- Conditions with high bleeding risk
Recent Surgery:
- Passengers who have recently undergone surgical procedures
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Helicopter Noise Levels: Despite the provided noise-canceling headsets, helicopter engines generate significant noise that may cause discomfort for some passengers. Individuals sensitive to loud sounds should consider this factor when booking.
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Pre-Flight Consultation: Passengers with any medical concerns should consult their physician before booking helicopter tours. Those with the above-mentioned conditions should carefully consider the risks associated with high-altitude helicopter flights and may need to avoid such activities entirely.
Weather Safety Priority: All flight decisions prioritize passenger safety over schedule adherence. Weather-related delays or cancellations, while inconvenient, ensure the highest safety standards are maintained.
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