Kedarnath Helicopter Booking 2024 – Official Process and Safety Tips.

More and more people want to book helicopter rides to Kedarnath these days. It’s a quick and easy way to get to this holy place. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about booking a helicopter to Kedarnath in 2024. We’ll cover how to book, safety tips, and info about the helicopter companies and landing spots.

Kedarnath is a special temple high up in the mountains, 3,553 meters above sea level. It’s one of the 12 most important Shiva temples and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage in Uttarakhand. Many people want to visit this holy place each year, but it’s hard to get to. Usually, people have to walk 18 kilometers from Gauri Kund, where the road ends. This is a tough walk for many. So, helicopter rides have become a popular choice for those who can’t or don’t want to walk that far.

 The Rise of Helicopter Services to Kedarnath

More and more people are choosing to take helicopters to Kedarnath lately. In just 42 days of the 2023 Kedarnath trip, from May 10 to June 20, a lot of people – 56,110 to be exact – flew to the holy place by helicopter. Seven helicopter companies made 10,027 trips during this time, which is more than ever before. This shows that many people who want to visit Kedarnath prefer to fly there because it’s easier than walking.

Official Kedarnath Helicopter Booking Process for 2024

For the 2024 Kedarnath trip, the Uttarakhand government has made a new booking system. This system is meant to be fair, safe, and easy for everyone. Here’s how to book a helicopter ride to Kedarnath:

Where to Book

You can only book your helicopter ride on the official IRCTC website: https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in

This is to keep you safe from scams and make sure everyone books the same way.

When to Book

You can book rides up to October 31, 2024. It’s best to book early, especially during busy times, to get the date and time you want.

Sign Up First

Before booking, you must sign up on this website: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in

You need to do this before you can book a helicopter ride.

How to Book

1. Go to the IRCTC Heli Yatra website
2. Make an account
3. Log in
4. Enter your Chardham Registration number
5. Pick your helicopter company and time
6. Give passenger information
7. Show your ID
8. Confirm with a one-time password
9. Agree to the rules and pay
10. Choose how to pay and finish paying
11. Download your ticket

Important Things to Remember

• Bring ID that matches what you put in when booking
• You can book 3 days before or 2 days after your temple visit date
• You can book up to 2 tickets per account, with up to 6 people per ticket
• If you have more than 12 people, make another account

The government has allowed several helicopter companies to fly to Kedarnath. These companies can fly from different places.

Guptkashi Departure Point:

• Trans Bharat Aviation
• Aryan Aviation

Phata Departure Point:

• Pawan Hans
• Thumby Aviation
• Global Vectra Helicorp
• Trans Bharat Aviation

Sersi Departure Point:

• Arrow Aircrafts
• Himalayan Heli Services
• Kestrel Aviation

It’s important to note that during the monsoon months of July and August, only two companies (Trans Bharat and Himalaya Heli) will operate helicopter services. Bookings for these services can only be made through the IRCTC website. The other seven companies will resume operations after the rainy season.

Helicopter Fares and Tariffs for Kedarnath 2024

The government has established fixed rates for helicopter transport to Kedarnath to ensure fairness and transparency. Here are the current tariffs for 2024:

• Phata – Kedarnath – Phata: ₹6,074
• Sirsi – Kedarnath – Sirsi: ₹6,072
• Guptkashi – Kedarnath – Guptkashi: ₹8,426

All fares are for round-trip journeys. It’s worth noting that these prices are subject to change, and it’s always best to check the official IRCTC website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Helipad Directory for Kedarnath Region

Understanding the various helipads serving Kedarnath can help you choose the most suitable option for your pilgrimage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the main helipads in the region:

 1. Sersi Helipad

• Distance to Kedarnath: 23 km
• Flight duration: 11 minutes
• Round-trip fare: ₹5,498 (subject to change)
• Location: Sirsi village, 7 km from Phata
• Elevation: 6,500 feet
• Lodging: Various accommodations available in Sirsi and neighboring areas (Guptkashi, Phata, Rampur, Sonprayag)

Notable features:

• Closest aerial hub to Kedarnath
• Inaugurated in 2002 by Harsh Vardhan Sharma and Wangchuk Shamshu
• Strategically located en route to Kedarnath

2. Phata Aerial Hub

• Distance to Kedarnath: 31 km
• Flight duration: 9 minutes
• Round-trip fare: ₹5,500 (subject to change)
• Location: 14 km from Guptkashi
• Elevation: 4,921 feet
• First flight: 6:30 AM
• Lodging: Various accommodation options in Phata and nearby Guptkashi

 Notable features:

• One of the most frequented launch points due to its strategic location
• Multiple aviation firms operate from this hub
• Both digital and traditional reservation methods available

 3. Guptkashi Skyport

• Distance to Kedarnath: 46 km
• Flight duration: 15 minutes
• Round-trip cost: ₹7,750 (subject to change)
• Location: Narayankoti, 2 km from Guptkashi towards Phata
• Elevation: Approximately 4,800 feet
• First departure: 6:30 AM
• Lodging: Wide spectrum of lodging facilities available in Guptkashi

 Notable features:

• Major stopover en route to Kedarnath
• Well-linked by public transit
• Abundant lodging options and healthcare facilities
• Preferred by pilgrims due to comprehensive services

 4. Sitapur Airfield

• Distance to Kedarnath: 22 km
• Flight duration: 5 to 7 minutes
• Fare: To be announced
• Location: 7 km preceding Gaurikund, 26 km beyond Guptkashi
• First departure: 6:30 AM
• Lodging: Economical and premium room options accessible at Sitapur proper and neighboring locales such as Guptkashi, Phata & Sonprayag

5. Augustmuni Airfield

• Distance to Kedarnath: 70 km
• Flight duration: 15 to 20 minutes
• Fare: To be announced
• Location: Recreation area near constabulary station Augustya muni
• Elevation: 3,280 feet
• First departure: 6:30 AM
• Lodging: Economical & premium room options accessible at Augustya Muni proper and at the adjacent town Rudraprayag

Notable features:

• Positioned on the port side of Rudraprayag – Kedarnath thoroughfare near the constabulary station
• Approximately 160 km from Rishikesh
• Previously used by Pawan Hans for rotorcraft services to Kedarnath
• 5-passenger Bell 407 rotorcraft employed, requiring 45 minutes for a round expedition

 6. Dehradun to Kedarnath Rotorcraft Service

• Distance to Kedarnath: 266 km
• Flight duration: Contingent on package stopovers
• Fare: To be announced
• Location: Sahastradhara, Dehradun
• Elevation: 2,175 feet
• First departure: 6:30 AM
• Lodging: Economical, premium & luxurious room options accessible at Dehradun proper
• Notable features:
• Direct rotorcraft service available but potentially more expensive due to considerable distance
• Numerous aeronautical enterprises offer Char Dham packages from Dehradun with multiple stops en route

Premium Helicopter Tours to Kedarnath 2024 from Dehradun

If you want a fancier trip, some private helicopter companies offer special tour packages. These trips can include visits to Kedarnath, Badrinath, and sometimes all four places of the Char Dham pilgrimage. These flights start from Dehradun.

These special trips cost a lot more. They can cost between 1 lakh rupees (₹1,00,000) to 2 lakh rupees (₹2,00,000) for each person. Even though they’re more expensive, these packages usually give you extra services and a more personal trip experience.

 Safety Tips and Guidelines for Kedarnath Helicopter Booking

When booking a helicopter ride to Kedarnath, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and follow all guidelines set by the operators and authorities. Here are some essential safety tips and guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Book only through official channels: Ensure you book your helicopter ride through the official IRCTC website to avoid scams and fraudulent operators.
2. Carry valid identification: All passengers must carry valid identification that matches the details provided during booking.
3. Arrive early: Reach the helipad at least 1 hour before your scheduled flight time and arrive at the entry point 2 hours prior for processing.
4. Follow weight restrictions: Be aware of the weight limitations. Passengers (including infants) exceeding 80kg may be charged an additional fee of ₹150/kg.
5. Understand seating arrangements: Seating is subject to aircraft load and flight planning. Groups may be distributed across multiple rotorcraft due to logistical needs.
6. Be prepared for weather changes: Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Dress appropriately and be prepared for potential delays or cancellations due to adverse weather conditions.
7. Listen to safety briefings: Pay close attention to all safety instructions provided by the crew before and during the flight.
8. Secure loose items: Ensure all personal belongings are securely stored as advised by the crew.
9. Stay calm: If you’re nervous about flying, inform the crew. They’re trained to assist passengers and ensure a comfortable journey.
10. Follow all instructions: Always follow the instructions given by the pilot and ground staff, both at the helipad and during the flight.

Benefits of Choosing Helicopter Services for Kedarnath Pilgrimage

Opting for a helicopter ride to Kedarnath offers several advantages over the traditional trekking route:

Time-saving: The helicopter journey significantly reduces travel time, condensing what would be a multi-day trek into a short flight of just 5-15 minutes (depending on the departure point).

Comfort: Especially beneficial for elderly pilgrims or those with health concerns, helicopter services eliminate the physical strain of the long trek.

Scenic views: The aerial route offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape, providing a unique perspective of the sacred region.

Accessibility:  Helicopters make the pilgrimage possible for those who might not be able to undertake the challenging trek due to physical limitations or time constraints.

Priority darshan: Many helicopter packages include priority darshan (viewing) at the temple, allowing pilgrims to avoid long queues.

Weather flexibility: In case of adverse weather conditions that might make the trekking route dangerous, helicopters provide a safer alternative (subject to flying conditions).

Extended pilgrimage opportunities: The time saved by flying allows pilgrims to potentially visit other holy sites in the region.

Challenges and Considerations for Kedarnath Helicopter Booking

While helicopter services offer numerous benefits, there are also some challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

• Limited availability: During peak pilgrimage seasons, helicopter tickets can sell out quickly. Early booking is essential.
• Weather-dependent: Flights are subject to weather conditions. Sudden changes in mountain weather can lead to delays or cancellations.
• Altitude considerations: The rapid ascent by helicopter can sometimes lead to altitude sickness. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms and take necessary precautions.
• Baggage restrictions: Helicopters have strict weight limitations, which means restrictions on the amount of luggage you can carry.
• Cost: Helicopter services are significantly more expensive than the traditional trekking route.
• Short stay: Most helicopter packages allow for only a brief stay at Kedarnath, which might not suit pilgrims seeking a more immersive experience.
• Booking complexity:The mandatory pre-registration and specific booking process can be complex for some, especially those not comfortable with online transactions.

Future of Kedarnath Helicopter Booking

The popularity of helicopter services to Kedarnath is expected to continue growing in the coming years. The Uttarakhand government and aviation authorities are constantly working to improve and expand these services. Some potential developments to watch for include:

1. Increased capacity: More helicopters and operators may be added to meet the growing demand.
2. Improved infrastructure: Helipads may be upgraded, and new ones could be constructed to enhance accessibility.
3. Advanced booking systems: The online booking process may be further streamlined and improved for user convenience.
4. Eco-friendly initiatives: There may be a push towards more fuel-efficient helicopters or even electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the future.
5. Enhanced safety measures: Continuous improvements in safety protocols and technologies are likely to be implemented.
6. Integrated pilgrimage packages: More comprehensive packages combining helicopter services with other aspects of the pilgrimage may be developed.

Conclusion

Booking helicopter rides to Kedarnath has changed how people visit this holy place. It makes it easier for more people to go there. While flying is more comfortable, saves time, and is easier to do, it’s important to think carefully about safety, how much it costs, and what you prefer when you book.

As you plan your trip to Kedarnath, remember that whether you walk or fly, the most important part is your faith and spiritual feelings. The helicopter is just a new way to help you get there, but the real spiritual journey happens inside you.

If you follow the right way to book, know the latest rules, and follow all safety steps, you can have a good and safe helicopter trip to Lord Shiva’s temple at Kedarnath. We hope your trip is safe, comfortable, and spiritually rewarding.

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