Kedarnath Dham Helicopter Services
Dehradun: Anticipating the upcoming pilgrimage season, there is noteworthy news for devotees heading to Kedarnath Dham. The Kedarnath Air Shuttle fares for these sacred journeys are set to undergo a five percent increase this year. Presently, the one-way fares from Phata, Shersi, and Guptkashi stand at Rs 2750, Rs 2749, and Rs 3870, respectively. With the proposed five percent adjustment, the revised one-way fares are expected to be Rs 2887, Rs 2886, and Rs 4063. It’s important to note that these figures are subject to confirmation by the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Council (UCAC).
Operated by private companies, Air shuttle services to Kedarnath Dham have become an integral part of the pilgrimage experience. The booking process for these services is scheduled to commence once the official opening date for Kedarnath Dham is announced.
Pilgrims can conveniently secure their Air Shuttle tickets through online platforms or the IRCTC portal. The services originate from three locations: Phata, Shersi, and Guptkashi. Depending on the departure point, the approximate one-way journey durations are 10 minutes from Phata, 8 minutes from Shersi, and 15 minutes from Guptkashi.
Passengers are reminded that luggage allowances are restricted to a maximum of 5 kg per person during the Air Shuttle journey. This ensures a smooth and efficient travel experience for all pilgrims.
In a strategic move to streamline the booking process, Mr. Ravishankar, the CEO of UCAC, has entrusted the responsibility of air shuttle service bookings to IRCTC. The renowned platform, which already manages various travel-related services, will continue to handle air shuttle bookings for Kedarnath Dham through its dedicated website.
For those eager to secure their seats, the IRCTC website for booking air shuttle tickets for Kedarnath Dham can be accessed at https://www.heliyatra.irctc.co.in/. Additionally, pilgrims have the flexibility to book their tickets through authorized travel agents.
As the pilgrimage season approaches, the UCAC has intensified its preparations to ensure the seamless operation of air shuttle services. This year, as soon as the opening date for Kedarnath Dham is officially confirmed, the booking process for air shuttle services will be initiated promptly.
The air shuttle services for Kedarnath Dham are crucially divided into three sectors: Phata, Guptkashi, and Shersi. These sectors collectively house nine helipads, providing efficient connectivity for pilgrims. Last year, UCAC invited tenders from air shuttle companies to determine the fares from these helipads. Subsequently, the fares from Phata, Shersi, and Guptkashi were fixed. It was agreed upon that tenders would be valid for three years, with a five percent annual increase in fares.
Last year saw the operation of air shuttle services by nine companies, including Himalayan Heli, Kestrel Aviation, Arrow Aircraft, Pawan Hans, Global Vectra Helicopter, Thumby Aviation, and Trans Bharat Aviation.
Companies Operating Air Shuttle Services Last Year:
From Shersi:
- Himalayan Heli
- Kestrel Aviation
- Arrow Aircraft
From Phata:
- Pawan Hans
- Global Vectra Helicopter
- Thumby Aviation
- Trans Bharat Aviation
From Guptkashi:
- Trans Bharat
- Aryan
Tragically, an accident in Kedarnath Dham led to the cancellation of one company’s tender due to negligence. In the aftermath, air shuttle services continued with eight companies, showcasing resilience and commitment to the pilgrimage route. In light of this incident, tenders have been re-invited to include a new company in the upcoming season.
This year’s preparations for air shuttle services are marked by thoroughness, and the department is ready to commence bookings as soon as the official announcement for the opening date of Kedarnath Dham is made.
To enhance safety and operational efficiency, pilgrims are reminded of the luggage restrictions and advised to adhere to the guidelines. Furthermore, UCAC remains committed to ensuring the highest standards of service during the pilgrimage season.
In a recent development, the tender process for the inclusion of the ninth company has been concluded, with Trans Bharat Aviation emerging as the successful bidder. This strategic addition aims to further enhance the availability and reliability of air shuttle services for pilgrims heading to Kedarnath Dham. As the season approaches, the anticipation among pilgrims and the coordination among air shuttle service operators are at an all-time high, promising a seamless and safe pilgrimage experience.
