For the traveller who is unable to make a trekking trip to the mountains either for the lack of time or physical fitness, there are mountain flights that offer some of the best views of the majestic Himalayas.

One can take an hour-long flight with any of the five flight operators that are presently offering the service. The 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 world 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, also called Shisha Pangma, standing at a height of 8,013m. To its right appears Dorje Lhakpa (6,966m), looking like a massive figure of eight lying prone and covered in snow. To its right is Phurbi Chyachu, which looms over the Kathmandu valley.