Helicopter Service to Kedarnath : The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has officially launched a helicopter service to Kedarnath Dham, offering devotees a faster and more comfortable option for reaching one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. With the yatra season seeing record footfall each year, this new service aims to ease the travel strain for senior citizens, physically challenged devotees, and those with time constraints. Here’s a complete guide on how to book, what it costs, and everything else you need to know about the IRCTC Kedarnath helicopter service in 2025.
Helicopter Service to Kedarnath : Why Helicopter Travel to Kedarnath is a Game-Changer
Pilgrims trekking to Kedarnath often face harsh weather, long distances, and high-altitude challenges. The IRCTC’s helicopter service helps reduce the multi-day trip into a quick 8 to 10-minute aerial journey, offering:
- Time-saving and energy-efficient travel
- Safety and medical support for elderly or ill devotees
- A breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayan ranges
- Hassle-free return options on the same day
Helicopter Routes and Departure Locations
IRCTC has partnered with multiple aviation service providers to operate from key helipads in Uttarakhand. The main routes in 2025 include:
- Phata to Kedarnath
- Guptkashi to Kedarnath
- Sersi to Kedarnath
Each helipad has been strategically selected to provide maximum connectivity and efficient load balancing for high volumes of pilgrims.
Fare Structure for Kedarnath Helicopter Ride
The helicopter fare varies depending on the route and operator. Below is a table of expected fares for 2025 based on IRCTC and DGCA-approved rates:
| Route | One-Way Fare (INR) | Round-Trip Fare (INR) | Flight Duration | Operator Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phata – Kedarnath | ₹2,999 | ₹5,990 | 8-9 minutes | Daily (May to Oct) |
| Sersi – Kedarnath | ₹2,750 | ₹5,500 | 7-8 minutes | Daily |
| Guptkashi – Kedarnath | ₹3,250 | ₹6,500 | 10 minutes | Selective dates |
| VIP Darshan Plan | ₹6,500 – ₹8,000 | ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 | Includes special darshan | Pre-booking required |
| Medical Evacuation | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 | NA | As per request | On availability basis |
Note: Prices may vary depending on season, operator, and demand. Always verify on the official IRCTC portal before booking.
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How to Book Helicopter Tickets via IRCTC
Booking a helicopter ticket to Kedarnath is now just a few clicks away. IRCTC has created a dedicated portal for this service:
- Visit: https://www.irctctourism.com/
- Click on “Helicopter Booking – Kedarnath”
- Choose the route (Phata/Sersi/Guptkashi)
- Select travel date and number of passengers
- Upload valid Aadhar Card / Government ID
- Make payment through UPI, debit card, or net banking
- Download e-ticket and print it for physical verification
Documents Required
- Government-issued ID (Aadhar, PAN, Voter ID)
- Health Declaration (especially for senior citizens)
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate or RT-PCR (as per latest guidelines)
Best Time to Avail the Helicopter Service
The Kedarnath yatra season typically starts from May and continues till late October, depending on weather conditions. Ideal months for helicopter travel are:
- May to June: Cool and less rainy
- September to October: Post-monsoon clarity and lower footfall
Helicopter services are suspended during the monsoon season (July-August) due to safety concerns and poor visibility.
Things to Know Before You Fly
- Luggage limit: 5 kg per passenger
- Reporting time: At least 1.5 hours before departure
- Infants below 2 years: Not allowed for safety reasons
- Refund Policy: Full refund in case of weather cancellations or technical faults
- Medical Advisory: Avoid if you have severe respiratory, cardiac or altitude-related health issues
Additional Packages Offered by IRCTC
IRCTC has also introduced comprehensive yatra packages including helicopter ride + VIP darshan + overnight accommodation:
| Package Name | Inclusions | Price Range (INR) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath Same Day Return | Helicopter ride + Darshan | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 | 1 Day |
| Kedarnath Premium Yatra | Helicopter + Darshan + Hotel + Meals | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 | 2 Days |
| Do Dham Helicopter Tour | Kedarnath + Badrinath by Helicopter | ₹65,000 – ₹90,000 | 1-2 Days |
| Char Dham Aerial Tour | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | ₹1.5L – ₹2.5L | 2-3 Days |
Bookings for these packages are available via https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in/
Safety, Weather, and Emergency Protocols
- All helicopters follow DGCA safety guidelines and have onboard oxygen kits.
- Flights are subject to weather clearance from local ATC.
- Emergency landing zones are pre-identified and rehearsed.
- IRCTC staff are present at all helipads for assistance.
The IRCTC helicopter service to Kedarnath has opened new doors of accessibility, especially for elderly pilgrims and time-bound travelers. The fares are reasonable when compared to the arduous trek, and the process is streamlined for a smooth travel experience. However, due to high demand and limited seat availability, early booking is highly recommended.
All fare details, travel timelines, and package inclusions mentioned are as per publicly available data and subject to change. Travelers are advised to check the official IRCTC portal and state government guidelines before planning their journey. Helicopter operations are weather-dependent and may be suspended or delayed without prior notice for safety reasons.
