Yatra Overview
Chardham Yatra by Helicopter is one of the best modes of travel for devotees to unite with the sacred sites in Uttarakhand. It includes helicopter flights to the temples of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. This convenient journey makes traveling accessible for people of all ages and physical disabilities.
In addition to its accessibility advantages, it provides a thrilling experience for travellers by giving them stunning aerial views of the Himalayan landscapes. What was once a long and challenging journey can now be completed within just 5 nights and 6 days with a helicopter yatra. The heli tour comes with packages that range from affordable to expensive, depending on the quality of chosen services.
This travel guide will give you a complete picture of the Dehradun to Chardham Yatra by Helicopter price, Kedarnath helicopter booking, safety tips, and guidelines to help you plan a soulful journey.
About Chardham Yatra
Chardham Yatra holds a special place in the hearts of Hindu devotees all over the world. When people make this pilgrimage, they believe it cleanses their spirit and brings them closer to God. The natural beauty of these mountain temples creates a perfect setting for prayer and finding inner peace. Let us learn more about these holy sites in detail:
Yamunotri Temple
Revered as the source of the River Yamuna, Yamunotri Dham is located in the western part of the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,152 m. Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, this sacred site rests on the Banderpunch Range, at the foothills of Kalind Mountain. Yamunotri presents a moderately challenging trek, suitable for reasonably fit trekkers.
The journey to Yamunotri begins from the base camp, Janaki Chatti, which is about 1 km from the Kharsali Helipad. Janaki Chatti is also a holy site known for Surya Kund, a hot water spring, and Divya Shila (a sacred rock worshipped before entering the temple). The Yamunotri Temple is about 1 km from the base camp, meaning the total trek distance from Kharsali is about 4-5 km for the round trip.
Gangotri Temple
Our second destination in the Chardham Yatra by helicopter is Gangotri Dham, dedicated to Maa Ganga. This sacred site is located in Gangotri Town in the Uttarkashi district at an elevation of about 3,100 meters. The Bhagirathi River flows near the temple premises, where devotees take a dip in the holy river to attain salvation.
In the temple, you will also find idols of deities such as Goddess Annapoorna, Lakshmi, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The Gangotri Dham compound also hosts a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Ganesha, Shiva, Bhagirath, and Sage Adi Shankaracharya. Other attractions that you can explore are Bhagirath Shila, Pandav Gufa, Bheem Gufa, Surya Kund, and Gauri Kund.
Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath is one of the most famous and remote temples in the Chardham circuit. Situated in the Rudraprayag district, the temple rests at an elevation of approximately 3,544 m on the slopes of Kedarnath mountain. This sacred dham hosts one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva representing his hump and it is also part of the Panchkedar circuit in Uttarakhand. During your Kedarnath Helicopter Yatra, you will arrive at the Kedarnath Helipad, located about 700-500 m from the temple. You will be treated with a VIP Darshan at Kedarnath Temple, making this journey more accessible and exciting.
Need help with your Kedarnath helicopter booking? We at Himalayan Dream Treks are well known for creating customized travel according to our customers’ needs. Contact us at info@himalayandreamtreks or +91 80896 93825.
Badrinath Temple
Our last destination in the Chardham Yatra is Badrinath Temple (3,133 m), dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Also known as Badri Narayan Temple, this holy site is located in the Garhwal hill tracts of Badrinath Town in Chamoli district. Established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 9th century, the temple hosts a black granite (shaligram) idol obtained from the Alaknanda River that flows beside it. The beauty of Nar and Narayan Parbat, along with Neelkanth Peak, adds to the divine aura of Badrinath Dham. You can also find a sacred Taptkund, a hot water spring near the temple.
Day Wise Itinerary (5D/4N Tour by Helicopter)
The Chardham Yatra by helicopter can be customized as per the devotee’s travel needs. Our tour package is tailored to you, with itinerary options available for a 2-day, 4N/5D tour, 6D/5N, and 5D/4N tour. All these tour packages include luxury stays, a spiritual retreat to Kedarnath & Badrinath, and VIP darshan. However, for a fun and comfortable journey, we recommend you to complete it in 5 nights and 6 days.
Here is a detailed itinerary for helicopter services 2025 to help you plan a memorable Chardham yatra:
Timings: 7:00 am to 7: 45 am
Stay: Hotel Lemon Tree, Dehradun, and Hotel Yamunakriti, Kharsali
Your heli-tour to Char Dham starts from Dehradun, so make sure you reach here by Day Zero. We will start our day early, and we will arrange your pick-up from Dehradun at 6:30 am. Before 7:00 am, you will reach the helipad at Sahastradhara, Dehradun.
The helicopter journey from Dehradun to Yamunotri takes about 45 minutes, and you gain an altitude of about 5,708 ft. Upon reaching Kharsali, our team will receive you and help you check into a hotel. Here, you can relax and have a hearty breakfast. Post-breakfast, you will set out for a VIP Darshan to Yamunotri Temple on a Palki. The total trekking distance is about 5 km, and you will be back at your hotel by lunchtime.
In the evening, you can explore the Kharsali village and its temple, which hosts the Maa Yamunotri idol during winter. You can also visit the nearby Shani Temple and return to your hotel for the night.
Timings: 8:15 am to 8: 45 am
Stay: Hotel Himalayan Nature Resort, Harsil
Start your day early and check out of your hotel before 8:00 am. The journey from the Helipad to Gangotri will take about 45 minutes, and you will gain an altitude of about 1,500 ft. On your journey to Gangotri, enjoy the aerial views of the beautiful valley of Harsil and the Himalayan peaks.
At Gangotri, our team will pick you up and drop you at Hotel Himalayan Nature Resort. After a few hours of relaxation and an energetic breakfast, you will leave in an Innova for a Gangotri VIP darshan included in the package. The Gangotri temple is 20 km from the hotel.
Your Char Dham Helicopter Yatra includes Gangotri Dham darshan and sightseeing in the beautiful valleys near Gangotri. After offering your prayers at Maa Ganga Temple, enjoy the evening Ganga arti, if time permits. Return to the hotel for a delicious dinner, an evening bonfire, and an overnight stay.
Timings: 8:45 am to 9: 15 am
Stay: Hotel Vila Aadhya, Phata, at Guptakashi
On Day 3, you will visit the sacred Kedarnath Dham, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will start your day early and depart from Gangotri around 8:45 am for Guptakashi, the closest town to Kedarnath. The journey from the Helipad to Kedarnath will require you to switch helicopters at Guptakashi Helipad, taking about 7 minutes.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our team for a VIP darshan at Kedarnath Temple. Immerse yourself in the divinity of this significant site of the Char Dham circuit. Offer your prayers and enjoy the stunning views of the notable peaks surrounding Kedarnath.
There is no overnight accommodation at Kedarnath, so we will arrange your stay at a hotel in Guptkashi or Sitapur. Enjoy a delicious dinner here and have a restful sleep.
Timings: 9: 15 am to 9: 50 am
Stay: Hotel Sarovar Portico, Badrinath
Today, you will visit the Badrinath temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, locally known as Badri Narayan. Check out early from your hotel in Guptakashi for a journey from the Helipad to Badrinath. Enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys on your way.
Our handlers will receive you after you land and help you check into Hotel Sarovar Portico. After a delicious and energetic meal, you will set out for the hassle-free pilgrimage experience with VIP darshan at Badrinath Dham. Offer your prayers and let the sacred and peaceful environment of the temple enchant you.
In the evening, explore the nearby Mana Village, which is famous as India’s first village. Return to your hotel for a warm dinner and overnight stay. The next morning, you can attend the Maha Abhishek Pooja and witness the Shringar of Lord Narayana from close quarters. This special pooja comes under your luxury Chardham Yatra package. It starts at 4:00 am and goes on for 2 hours.
Timings: 9: 15 am to 9: 50 am
Stay: Hotel Sarovar Portico, Badrinath
The fifth day marks the end of your helicopter Yatra to Char Dham from Dehradun. You will start your day with an early morning pooja at Badrinath Temple. Post-darshan, return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast and check out. Our team will fly you back to Dehradun. On your way, enjoy the scenic beauty and conclude your journey with unforgettable memories of the divine 4 Dham destinations.
Chardham Helicopter Yatra Package Includes
Price Inclusion
Luxurious stay at 4 and 5-star hotels and delicious meals
Complimentary stay, pick and drop, and airport transfer for 1 Night in Dehradun.
VIP darshans at each Dham: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
Local sightseeing by Toyota Innova.
Palki (Sedan Chair) at Yamunotri.
Fuel, Toll, Parking Fee, and Driver Allowance.
Shuttle Services at Kedarnath on a priority basis.
Maha Abhishek Puja/ Vishnu Sahasranamam Path at Badrinath.
Price Exclusion
International/ Domestic Flights ticket is not included.
Any other thing that has not been mentioned in the Cost Inclusions.
Personal expenses such as Tipping, laundry, telephone calls other than mentioned in inclusions, etc.
Tour Guidelines for Passengers
The Char Dham Helicopter Yatra requires you to follow a few guidelines to help you with a convenient journey and a hassle-free experience. The details are listed below:
- Personal care: Carry a first aid and medical kit to help during emergencies and high-altitude sickness.
- Maximum passengers: 1 to 6 persons per helicopter
- Body weight limitations: The total weight of passengers must not exceed 450 kg per Helicopter
- Maximum luggage: 5 kg per person due to space limitations; excess luggage will not be allowed. Pack your belongings in a handbag as suitcases are prohibited in a Helicopter.
- Clothing: Pack appropriate woolens and thermal layers to protect yourself from cold temperatures.
Terms and Conditions
We also have a few terms and conditions before you proceed with the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter booking with us. These are:
- Pricing policy for Children: Children aged 2 years and above will be considered full tickets. No fee concession will be given to children and senior citizens.
- Payment Terms: The travelers must make an advanced booking with a 50% advance payment on the chartered amount. You must make the full payment 15 days before your Chardham helicopter yatra.
- Refund Conditions: If your Chardham journey is incomplete within the designated timeframe due to bad weather/ technical reasons, we will extend the itinerary to allow for its completion. In case you are not able to visit Dham, we will refund you the full amount.
- Rescheduling Policy: If you want to reschedule your journey date, it can be done 7 days before the booked date. The rescheduling is subject to availability and 10% extra charges of the original cost.
Note: If you request a reschedule within less than 7 days of the original date, we will consider your booking as canceled.
The terms and conditions of our refund policy are as follows:
| Time Before Journey | Refund Percentage |
| Up to 30 days before the journey | 30% of the amount |
| Between 15 to 30 days | 70% of the amount |
| Between 0 to 15 days | No Refund |
Registration for Chardham Yatra and How to Book for Heli Package?
The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board requires tourists to register on official channels before they set out for this divine journey. The IRCTC website is the designated platform for Chardham Yatra by Helicopter booking. Let us guide you through the registration and booking process in detail:
Registration Process
To get started, refer to the steps below for a successful online registration:
- Step 1: Go to the official Uttarakhand Tourism web portal and click on the REGISTER/LOGIN menu. Sign up before logging in as a new user. If you are an old user, log in with your User ID and password. To register through your phone, install the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” App or register on WhatsApp by sending a “Yatra” message to 8394833833.
- Step 2: After logging in, fill in the tour details by giving the date of starting the Chardham Yatra and ending. Mention the total number of tourists, the dhams you want to visit, and the visiting dates for each.
- Step 3: After filling in your details, submit the form to complete the registration process. Download and print the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter registration letter to carry during the journey.
Chardham Helicopter Service Booking Process
After completing the registration process mentioned above, you will book the helicopter service for your trip. You can either book it yourself from the official IRCTC website or proceed with a tour operator who can make the bookings for you. The booking procedure is easy and requires the following set of steps:
- Step 1: Visit the IRCTC Heliyatra website and click on the Sign Up button. Enter your details (name, mobile number, email ID, state, and a password).
- Step 2: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number and email ID to help you validate your account.
- Step 3: Use your registered mobile number and password to log in to the Heliyatra portal.
- Step 4: For group bookings, enter the Yatra Registration Group ID. For individual bookings, enter your Yatra registration number.
- Step 5: Check seat availability using Registration Number / Group ID. Select your preferred time slot on the available dates.
- Step 6: Click on ‘pay and confirm’ after accepting all the terms and conditions. Choose a payment method (credit/debit card, UPI, or net banking) to complete the transaction.
- Step 7: Post-payment, the page will be redirected to the booking confirmation page with booking details.
- Step 8: On the booking details page, click on the Download Ticket Button.
Chardham Yatra by Road Vs Helicopter
The sacred Chardham yatra is a popular destination for Hindu devotees of all ages, from young to old. While young tourists prefer the adventures of traveling by road, senior citizens seek a comfortable journey to these sites.
Let us have a closer look at the various features these two modes of travelling to Char Dham offer:
| Aspect | Chardham Road Journey | Chardham Helicopter Journey |
| Time Commitment | 10-14 days to complete all four dhams | 2-6 days, depending on package (single-day options available) |
| Physical Demands | Requires high physical enduranceIncludes long treks | Minimal physical exertionShort walks from helipads to temples |
| Cost Range | Affordable and costs vary based on accommodation and transportation | Expensive (includes premium accommodations and services) |
| Cultural Immersion | Interaction with local communities Connect with fellow pilgrims | Limited cultural immersionMinimal community interaction |
| Weather Vulnerabilities | Vulnerable to road closures | Cannot operate in fog, strong winds, or poor visibility |
| Accessibility | Challenging for the elderly, those with health conditions, or mobility issues | Suitable for the elderly, those with health conditions, tight schedules, or mobility concerns |
| Environmental Impact | Distributes economic benefits to small businesses and is sustainable | Concentrated carbon footprint and noise pollution |
| Accommodation | Local guesthouses, homestays, and small hotels | Premium hotels near landing sites |
| Scheduling Flexibility | Can adjust pace and itinerary as needed | Strict scheduling with brief and timed visits at each location |
| Seasonal Restrictions | Limited to May-June and September-October, with some routes accessible slightly longer | Operations are limited to May-June and September-October when weather permits safe flying |
Fraud Alert – A Detailed Note
With the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter gaining popularity in India and worldwide, many cases of scams and fraudulent activities have been reported in recent years. These scammers exploit unsuspecting tourists by impersonating legitimate operators and selling fake tickets. With increasing complaints of these unfortunate events, the Uttarakhand cyber cell officials have released several safety guidelines.
If you are planning a helicopter journey, be wary of such scams by recognizing fake businesses and taking preventive measures. The common fraudulent practices related to the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter are:
- Illegitimate Tour Operators: These fake tour companies offer attractive travel discounts to lure travelers. They often demand advance payments via QR codes under the guise of providing fake booking confirmations. In addition, they collect identity documents like Aadhar cards and other personal information that could be misused.
- Fake Website Scam: This is a common scam in the tourism industry. The official IRCTC website for booking the Chardham helicopter yatra is often replicated to trick devotees into making reservations on a fraudulent website.
- Impersonation of Popular Tour Operators: Many fraudulent businesses create names that closely resemble those of legitimate service providers. They replicate the exact logo, website design, and even the domain names. This confuses pilgrims who wish to make their bookings through a genuine operator.
FalseInformationinPackageInclusions: Most helicopter tour providers promise premium services at the time of booking. However, some of these operators include misleading information regarding luxury accommodations near the temples and transportation services. They often add hidden costs such as fuel charges or taxes that increase the original cost of booking.
How to Identify Possible Scams and Preventive Measures
As a vigilant customer, you must look for warning signs before making and finalising your bookings. This will help you identify the legitimacy of your tour operator for the Chardham Yatra by helicopter. Follow these practices to prevent yourself from becoming a scam victim:
- Verify the registration credentials and licenses of the tour operator before proceeding with them. You can also check their credibility by looking up their office location on Google Maps and reading customer reviews. We at Himalayan Dream Treks provide Heli packages at an affordable price and offer the best tourist services in Uttarakhand.
- Use the official IRCTC Heliyatra website for the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter by the Uttarakhand government bookings. Search for trusted operators, identify them through a good online reputation and customer history. Avoid third-party operators that promise faster booking and unusually high discounts.
- Check the authenticity of your booking ticket by:
- Scanning of the QR printed on the Ticket by the mobile’s camera.
- Using the Booking ID and the “Verify Booking” option available on the top right corner of the homepage of the IRCTC website
- Use the following link to check the legitimacy of the helicopter booking: https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in/verify-booking
- Plan your journey one or two months in advance to avoid the last-minute rush, which increases your chances of being scammed. Regularly follow the guidelines and updates from Uttarakhand Tourism authorities to stay informed about the Char Dham Yatra and any fraud warnings.
- Avoid making full payments upfront and request proper receipts and signed contracts regarding the cancellation/refund policy. Keep copies of all communications and payment details as proof of your booking confirmation.
- If you come across any suspicious websites or operators, inform the authorities through the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (MHA Toll-free No. 1930) or CM Helpline 1905.
If you become a victim of a tourist scam, inform the Tourism authorities immediately and file a complaint with the National Consumer Helpline. You can also contact your bank or credit card company to check the possibility of transaction reversal.
| Destination | Helipad Name | Distance to Temple | Travel Method |
| Yamunotri | Kharsali Helipad | Approx 6 km | Trek, pony, or palanquin (doli) |
| Gangotri | Harsil Helipad | Approx 23-25 km | Taxi or car |
| Kedarnath | Kedarnath Helipad | Approx 500 meters | Helicopter from Govindghat to Kedarnath Helipad, then trek |
| Badrinath | Badrinath Helipad | Approx 1 km | Walk |
FAQs
Given the isolated locations of the Char Dham Temples in the mountains, you may encounter some network issues at the summit. However, near the base camps, you will find good network coverage with JIO, Airtel, and BSNL SIMs. Our Heliyatra package arranges your accommodations in hotels that offer WIFI access. If you experience any further issues, you can reach out to our team or handlers for assistance.
Yes, throughout your Chardham Helicopter Yatra, you will be accompanied by our team of handlers and a guide. Together, they will assist you with pickup and drop-off services. Our team includes well-trained guides who will help you at every step of your sacred yatra.
Our Chardham Yatra by Helicopter package provides you with luxurious stay options throughout your journey. These hotels come with 4 or 5-star ratings to give you a premium travelling experience. The facilities include AC rooms, WIFI in the lobby, multilingual staff, restaurants, parking, and a gym.
The Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Kalanag, Swargarohini, Jaundhar Glacier, and Hata Peak can all be seen from the Har Ki Dun trek in Uttarakhand, India.
The Chardham Yatra by Helicopter is famous for being the most accessible mode of travel into the divine land of Uttarakhand. This is because it offers shorter distances and saves time. The table below summarizes the distances of various Char Dham Temples from their nearest helipads:
| Destination | Helipad Name | Distance to Temple | Travel Method |
| Yamunotri | Kharsali Helipad | Approx 6 km | Trek, pony, or palanquin (doli) |
| Gangotri | Harsil Helipad | Approx 23-25 km | Taxi or car |
| Kedarnath | Kedarnath Helipad | Approx 500 meters | Helicopter from Govindghat to Kedarnath Helipad, then trek |
| Badrinath | Badrinath Helipad | Approx 1 km | Walk |
Yes, our Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter package includes pickup from Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport to your accommodation. On the last day of the itinerary, we also offer drop-off services to the airport for the tourists. Please note, the pick-up service will take place on day 0, so make sure you add an extra day to your itinerary.
For darshan arrangements, our Chardham Heli tour package includes VIP Darshan facilities for our customers. This includes covering the distance to temples via a Poni or Doli and a car. If you want to make it a smoother travel experience, follow the tour guidelines and terms mentioned at the time of booking. You must also follow the designated time slots and be punctual for a hassle-free journey.
There is no separate pricing policy for children above the age of 2 traveling for the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter. They will be considered for full ticket prices, same as an adult. We offer a price concession for those below the age of 2 years.
Leave a Comment