Chardham Yatra is a sacred journey that takes you to four sacred destinations including Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Generally, the yatra includes strenuous trekking at a higher altitude, thus making it difficult for senior citizens and physically challenged persons to undertake this journey. To overcome such problems and make the tour accessible to everyone, helicopter service is the only viable option.
This article will give an insight into the advantages, essential features, and considerations for senior citizens and physically challenged pilgrims before undertaking the Chardham Helicopter Yatra.
What Are Some Important Reasons to Undertake for Chardham Helicopter Yatra?
1- Access and Convenience
- Helicopter services eliminate the need for strenuous trekking.
- Perfect for those who are disabled or suffering health problems.
- Can be completed in a few days instead of weeks.
2- Time-Saving
- Traditional pilgrimage takes 10-12 days while a helicopter journey can be completed in a few days.
- Only 2-5 days for helicopter pilgrimage.
- Saves time but still helps you attain spiritual fulfillment.
3- Comfortable Travel Experience
- Avoid rough terrains, extreme weather, and physical exhaustion.
- Helicopter Yatra offers a safe and comfortable mode of travel for the elderly and the differently abled.
- Nowadays, helicopters are outfitted with modern technology and tons of comfort features that ensure passenger comfort.
Important Features of Chardham Helicopter Yatra
1- Pre-Arranged Itineraries
- The helicopter operators have pre-planned schedules that cover all four shrines.
- The packages generally come with VIP darshan, accommodation, and vegetarian meals.
- Well-coordinated logistics ensure smooth transitions between the sacred destinations.
2- Precautionary Measures
- Helicopter service with experienced pilots and staff
- All emergency medical equipment is available
- Monitoring of weather conditions before take-off reduces any kinds of safety-related risks.
3- Assistance for Special Needs
- Assistance in boarding with the help of the staff present on the ground
- Wheelchairs and mobility aids are available as per your requirements.
- Basic healthcare assistance during the journey
An Ideal Itinerary for the Chardham Helicopter Yatra
Day 1: Dehradun To Yamunotri
- Departure from Sahastradhara helipad of Dehra Dun.
- Landing at the Kharsali helipad that is located near Yamunotri.
- A small Palki would bring the pilgrims to the temple.
- Overnight stay in a hotel nearby.
Day 2: Yamunotri to Gangotri
- Catch the flight to Kharsali from Harsil helipad.
- Drive to Gangotri Temple (approx 25 kilometers).
- VIP Darshan and return for an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3: Gangotri to Kedarnath
- Short trip to Phata or Guptkashi helipad by helicopter. From Guptkashi you’ll be transferred to Kedarnath temple.
- Return to the helipad.
Day 4: Kedarnath to Badrinath
- Catch the flight to Badrinath Helipad.
- Visit the temple and seek the blessings of God.
- If time permits, you may explore Mana Village and its surroundings.
- Spend the night at Badrinath.
Day 5: Return to Dehradun
- Return back to Dehradun Airport.
Who Can Benefit from Chardham Helicopter Yatra?
1- Senior Citizens
- It provides an easy way for senior citizens to undertake the yatra.
- It ensures spiritual fulfillment without compromising health.
2- Disabled Pilgrims
- Helicopter Yatra is ideal for those with limited mobility.
- Ground staff is present to assist you resulting in a comfortable journey for such individuals.
3- Busy Professionals
- Time-saving travel experience for people with tight schedules.
4. Families with Kids
- An ideal choice for families with kids.
Tips for Seniors and Differently-Abled Pilgrims
1- Medical Care
- Carry essential medicines and a first-aid kit.
- Consult a doctor before planning the journey, particularly if you have any kind of chronic disease.
2- Pack All the Important Items
- Pack all the essentials in a bag, such as warm clothes, bottles, water, and snacks.
- Do not take extra luggage as space is limited in a helicopter.
3- Stay Hydrated
- Consume water frequently to remain hydrated throughout the yatra.
- Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks during the journey.
4- Choose Reliable Travel Operators
- Choose helicopter service providers who are authorized and experienced.
- Check the safety record and review the helicopter service providers before making the booking.
5- Acclimatize Yourself
- Acclimatize yourself to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- For Chardham Yatra prepare your body by introducing it gradually to higher altitudes.
Cost and Booking Details
1- Cost
- Most helicopter packages range between ₹1.25 lakh and ₹3 lakh for a single person.
- The price will vary depending on inclusions, duration, and service provider you choose.
2- Process of Booking
- It is essential to book in advance, as slots may get full especially if you’re traveling in peak season.
- For booking, choose authorized operators and check the inclusions of the package before making the booking.
- During the Yatra carry your valid ID and medical certificate.
Best Time for Senior Citizens to Undertake Chardham Yatra
The best time to undertake the Char Dham Yatra for senior citizens is from September to October and May to June when the weather is pleasant and mild for travel. During these months you won’t have to deal with heavy rains and chances of landslides during the monsoon season and extreme cold of winter, which can be hazardous and challenging to travel, especially for elderly pilgrims.
Medical Considerations
- Those with special needs may need the approval of a doctor especially those above 60 years suffering from any kind of ailments such as respiratory disease or heart problems.
- The helicopters are equipped with oxygen cylinders and basic medical facilities to help you deal with altitude-related inconveniences.
- You should provide your operator details about the conditions of sick passengers for a comfortable flying experience.
Customized Char Dham Itineraries
Most of the Chardham helicopter operators conduct the tour from places where senior citizens can relax before boarding the flight. In case they get exhausted, the senior citizens can rest before heading to the next sacred destination.
Special timetables are provided to differently-abled pilgrims allowing them to travel to Chardham Temples comfortably. During the tour, they can have Darshan in a planned way. The itinerary can also be customized depending on their preference giving them the flexibility to have the Yatra as they want.
Ground Services and Assistance
Attendants are available to help the elderly individuals board the flight and alight from the plane. They also help the senior citizens move around the Char Dham sites. Transit is also provided at the destination via comfortable vehicle to cater for short distances making the Yatra even more comfortable. For Differently-Abled Pilgrims, personal assistance is provided during their journey.
Conclusion
Chardham Helicopter Yatra is one of the most accessible ways to reach the sacred destinations of Uttarakhand. It offers an ideal opportunity for elderly individuals and differently-abled persons to undertake the Yatra without dealing with the challenges that they might have to encounter during the traditional Yatra. The helicopters are equipped with modern equipment and staff is always there to assist the pilgrims. The helicopter Yatra also allows pilgrims to relish the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and lush green valleys making the journey even more memorable.
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