For those looking to embark on the Chardham Yatra, helicopter services can offer the next level of convenience. It is a great option for those who want to visit the four sacred destinations within the limited time they have on hand. Chard Dham yatra comprises visits to Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These holy destinations are located at very high altitudes amidst the Himalayas. By road, it can be challenging to access these destinations because of their isolated locations. With the helicopter yatra, you can save your time and make your journey hassle-free. People with limited mobility can also undertake the physically challenging Chardham yatra with the option of a helicopter. With helicopter services, this sacred pilgrimage becomes easily accessible to all without the need for hard travel or heavy treks by road. During the helicopter yatra, you can enjoy bird’s eye views of the beautiful valleys and mighty peaks.
How to Plan
Let’s take a look at the ways you can plan your Char Dham Yatra by helicopter and ensure a smooth travel experience.
- Choose the Helicopter Service Provider: You can book helicopter service with either a government or private agency, depending on your budget concerns, requirements, and needs. Government-run helicopter services can be booked online via authorized government websites. With government helicopter services you can visit the Kedarnath Dham. For those looking to cover the sacred yatra completely by helicopter, booking a tour with a private agency can be the best option.
- Reserve a Helicopter: Once you have decided to undertake the Chardham yatra by helicopter you’ll have to look for a reliable travel company or tour operator who can help you in organizing the yatra. Select an authorized and certified helicopter service provider. The agency must be registered with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and should have the approval of the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority. Many providers offer packages that include lodging, travel, or other services. Check the inclusions of the package and ask as many questions as you have in your mind about your tour operator. You’re also recommended to book the helicopter beforehand as limited seats are available for the Yatra.
- Pack Appropriately: Since all the Chardham sites are located at very high altitudes, the weather can be very cold and chilly. Pack enough woolen clothes such as sweaters, jackets, and coats to ensure you can stay protected from the cold waves and extreme weather conditions.
- Carry Necessary Documents: Carry all the important documents required for the yatra including your ID proof (Passport, Aadhaar, Voter ID), booking confirmation, and other documents requested by the agency on your Yatra’s day.
Tips for Smooth Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
Let’s take a look at the tips you need to follow for a hassle-free Char Dham Yatra by helicopter.
- Carry your valid ID proof and heliyatra ticket while boarding the helicopter. If you’re traveling with infants, you should bring along the birth certificate that you submitted during the booking.
- The booking of heliyatra tickets can only be done two days after the mentioned tour dates and three days prior to the tour dates mentioned in the Chardham Yatra Registration.
- Before embarking on the yatra, passengers need to be weighed since the helicopter has few weight limitations. Passengers should not weigh beyond 80 kg. After this maximum weight criteria, you’ll be charged Rs.150 per kg.
- The reporting time of the Chardham yatra is one hour before departure. You need to follow this timing strictly. If possible, pilgrims should reach the departure site even earlier.
- During the Chardham helicopter yatra, each person can only carry one piece of baggage which should not weigh more than 2 kilograms.
- Before the yatra, all the pilgrims including the elderly should get a medical checkup done to find out if they are physically fit for the yatra. You should also carry appropriate medication depending on your health-related needs.
- If you reside in a low-altitude region, you should spend one or two days acclimatizing yourself to the region’s weather to avoid falling sick because of sudden changes in altitude.
Safety Measures to Take
We have listed a few safety measures you need to take for a secure Chardham helicopter yatra.
- Select a Reliable Agency or Tour Provider: When booking the helicopter yatra, ensure that the agency you have chosen is registered with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and has the approval of the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority. Look for helicopter service providers with excellent track records, well-maintained helicopters, and experienced pilots.
- Pay Attention to the Instructions of the Pilot: You should pay attention to the pilot’s pre-flight briefing. Follow all his directions to ensure your journey is safe and secure. During training, try to understand and pay attention to emergency protocols.
- Tighten up your seatbelt: As you board the helicopter and get seated on the allotted seat tighten up your seatbelt and continue to do so till the end of the journey.
- Keep all Your Personal Belongings Safe: There can be turbulence as the helicopter takes off. Secure all your items securely in appropriate containers to avoid them from falling out.
- Adhere to Weight Limits: Before embarking on the yatra, passengers need to be weighed since the helicopter has few weight limitations. Passengers should not weigh beyond 80 kg. After this maximum weight criteria, you’ll be charged Rs.150 per kg. If you don’t follow weight restrictions you can risk everyone’s safety.
- Recognize Altitude-Sickness-Related Risks: If you’re traveling from a low-altitude area to the Chardham sites you should recognize altitude sickness-related risks. Acclimatize yourself and carry all the important medications to deal with altitude-sickness-related symptoms.
- Don’t Lean Outside of Doors and Windows: Do not try to lean out of the doors and windows of the helicopter as it can be hazardous for both yourself and others due to high wind pressure and loss of balance.
Essential Items to Carry
We have curated a list of all the important items that you need to carry during the Chardham helicopter yatra.
- You’re recommended to carry woolen clothing, sports shoes, sunglasses, windcheaters, towels and hats.
- Glucon D, mixture, dry fruits, energy bars, chocolates, and ready-to-eat meals.
- Carry enough cash, VIP Darshan passes, and helicopter tickets.
- First aid kit and sanitizer.
- Binoculars, a cellphone charger, a camera, a power bank, and a flashlight.
- Antibiotics, medications for motion sickness, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Personal ID cards (Voter ID Card, Aadhar Card, and driving license).
Cost of Chardham Helicopter Yatra
The Chardham helicopter yatra cost can vary depending on the group size, inclusions, and service provider. Always inquire about cancellation policies and hidden charges before finalizing your booking.
Best Time For Chardham Helicopter Yatra
September and November and May and June are the best times to travel to the Char Dham sites by helicopter. During these months the sky is clear and the weather is pleasant which makes flying more convenient. However, you should keep in mind that the weather can suddenly change, so you’re advised to check the weather forecast. You should avoid traveling in monsoon due to bad weather leading to delays in the operation of the helicopters.
Starting and Ending Points of the Helicopter Yatra
The helicopter tours mostly start at Sahastradhara Helipad which is situated in Dehradun. The helicopter will drop you close to the temples. To reach the temples, you may have to walk for a few minutes. In a few cases, cars may be assigned by tour agents to reach the temple.
At Gangotri, the helicopter will land at Harsil Helipad and Kharsali Helipad at Gangotri. Once you have reached Gangotri, it will take around 30 to 40 minutes to reach Kedarnath Helipad, which is located at a distance of around ten minutes from the temple. You’ll take a halt at Guptkashi Helipad before reaching Kedarnath Helipad, and from there, you will head to Kedarnath Helipad. Your next destination will be Badrinath where the helicopter will land at Badrinath Helipad.
FAQ”s
Q- 1. What is the maximum weight limit of luggage for the helicopter?
Ans: Each passenger is allowed to bring only 5 kg of luggage because there is limited space in the helicopter.
Q- 2. How much does Char Dham Yatra cost by helicopter?
Ans: The cost is between 2,25,000 / – to 2,35,000 / -(per person) for Char Dham Yatra by helicopter.
Q- 3. When should passengers book the helicopter in advance?
Ans: To book, pay 50% in advance. The balance should be paid 14 days before reaching Dehradun. Full payment is needed to board the helicopter. Visitors can book even 6 months in advance.
Q- 4. How long does it take to complete the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter?
Ans: This journey by helicopter can be completed around 4 to 5 days.
Q- 5. Where will be the helicopter stop during the journey?
Ans: The helicopter will stop at 5 main locations like- Dehradun (Sahastradhara Helipad), Kharsali near Yamunotri, Harsil near Gangotri and a helipad near Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Q- 6. What is the rule for helicopter tickets for children?
Ans: Children under 2 years old can travel for free. If the child is more than 2 years old, you will need to pay full ticket price.
Q- 7. What is the best time to visit for Char Dham Yatra by helicopter?
Ans: The best time to visit Chardham Yatra is from May to June.
Q- 8. Is travel insurance included in the helicopter package?
Ans: No, it is not included in the package. We advise visitors to carry it by themselves.
Q- 9. Is it possible to cover the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter in one day?
Ans: Visitors need at least 2 days to complete this journey for a smooth tour.
Q- 10. Is this helicopter package customizable?
Ans: Yes it is a customisable helicopter package. Travelers can select the dates and locations that work best for them.
Q- 11. What to do if the payment is deducted but my helicopter booking is not confirmed?
Ans: If the payment is debited but the helicopter ticket is not confirmed, the money will be refunded automatically to your account.
Q- 12. What is the maximum weight allowed for passengers on the helicopter?
Ans: Travelers must have a maximum weight of 80 kg for the helicopter.
Conclusion
The Chardham helicopter yatra is one of the most convenient ways to visit the Chardham sites. It not only saves your effort and time but also allows you to relish breathtaking views of the Himalayas. By opting for helicopter services you don’t need to trek continuously and save yourself from testing your limits. You can follow the tips mentioned above for a hassle-free helicopter yatra.
- Other Suggested Article to Read: Chardham Yatra Travel Tips
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