Kedarnath Yatra by Helicopter – Complete Guide (2026)

Why Helicopter to Kedarnath?

The Kedarnath Yatra by helicopter is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the sacred Kedarnath Temple without trekking the steep 16+ km path from Gaurikund. Pilgrims - especially the elderly, differently-abled, or those with limited time - increasingly prefer helicopter services to save time and avoid physical strain.

Helicopter services operate seasonally (avoiding heavy monsoon months) and are managed under strict safety regulations by the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) and booked through the official IRCTC HeliYatra portal.

When Do Helicopter Services Operate?

Helicopter services typically operate during the Kedarnath Yatra season - from May/early June to October, with a break during peak monsoon months due to weather and safety restrictions.

Bookings are usually opened 1–2 months before the season starts on the official portal.

Flights may also be paused temporarily due to weather conditions or safety directives.

Helipad Routes for Kedarnath Helicopter Flights

Helicopter services to Kedarnath operate from several established helipads in Uttarakhand. These routes are chosen based on distance to the temple, terrain, and safety planning:

1. Phata to Kedarnath

• Closest major helipad widely used by pilgrims.

• Quickest route with shorter flight time.

2. Sirsi to Kedarnath

• Another popular route with frequent shuttles.

• Slightly longer than Phata route but well established.

3. Guptkashi to Kedarnath

• Longest among the three, but a common boarding point for many travellers.

• Offers scenic aerial views over the Mandakini valley.

Helicopter Booking – Step-by-Step Process

Official Booking Portal

Helicopter tickets for Kedarnath can only be booked through the official IRCTC HeliYatra portal - this ensures authenticity and protects against fraud.

IMPORTANT: Steer clear of WhatsApp groups, private agent sites, or unofficial booking platforms - scams and fake QR tickets are a known issue.

How to Book

1. Visit heliyatra.irctc.co.in (official booking portal). (Udan Aviation)

2. Create/login to your account.

3. Select the departure helipad (Phata / Sirsi / Guptkashi).

4. Choose travel date and seat class.

5. Make payment and download the helicopter ticket and QR code.

Tip: Book as early as possible - slots fill up quickly due to high demand and limited daily shuttles.

Documents Required at Helipad

Passengers must carry:

• Valid photo ID (Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License)

• Printed/digital helicopter ticket

• Char Dham yatra registration slip/QR pass (required to book heli tickets)

• Follow local helipad check-in instructions

This ensures a smooth boarding process and avoids delays.

Helicopter Flight Timings & Logistics

• Flights usually begin early in the morning (6:30 AM onwards) and continue until early afternoon, depending on weather conditions.

• Return flights typically operate before late afternoon to avoid unpredictable mountain weather.

• Pilgrims should arrive at least 90 minutes before departure to complete check-in and security procedures.

Helicopter Fare (Ticket Prices)

Kedarnath helicopter fares can vary yearly, based on regulatory changes, operating costs, and government decisions.

Recent updates show a significant fare increase of up to ~49% compared to previous years due to revised limits on shuttle frequency and passenger counts.

Approximate current ranges (indicative):

• Phata ↔ Kedarnath: ₹8,500–₹8,900 per head round trip

• Sirsi ↔ Kedarnath: ₹8,500–₹8,900 per head

• Guptkashi ↔ Kedarnath: ₹12,444 per round trip

(Subject to change annually and based on weather/availability).

Early bookings and exact pricing are visible only during actual ticket sale windows on the official portal.

Weight & Luggage Limits

• Maximum allowable weight per passenger (including body + luggage) is typically capped ~80 kg.

• Only a small handbag (2–5 kg) is generally permitted.

• Carry essential items (medications, ID, weather gear); avoid bulky baggage.

Priority Darshan & Timing After Landing

Since helicopter pilgrims usually get a short darshan window (2–3 hours), you may benefit from obtaining priority darshan slips at the helipad counters.

This helps manage time efficiently before the scheduled return flight.

Safety Considerations

Weather & Flight Cancellations

Mountain weather is highly unpredictable - flights may be cancelled or rescheduled without much notice.

Helicopter Safety Norms

Following recent incidents, authorities have emphasised increased safety checks, twin-engine requirements, and real-time weather monitoring.

Travel with official operators only and follow all helipad instructions.

Advantages of Helicopter Yatra

• Saves time vs trekking or road journey.

• Easier for the elderly, children, and those with health limitations.

• Offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas and Mandakini valley.

Common Issues & Workarounds

Slots Show “No Availability”

High demand often means slots sell out quickly - refreshing at booking open time may help.

Avoiding Scams

Only book via the official IRCTC portal - unofficial bookings may lead to fraud and financial loss.

Important Tips Before Planning Your Helicopter Yatra

• Register for Char Dham Yatra first - required for booking heli tickets.

• Plan and book weeks in advance, especially in peak season.

• Carry printed tickets & IDs to the helipad.

• Stay updated on weather and booking announcements.

Stay & Connectivity

Helipads like Phata, Sirsi, and Guptkashi have basic facilities nearby.

You can plan to stay in these towns prior to your flight for convenience and early departure.

A Kedarnath Yatra by helicopter is an excellent choice for anyone seeking convenience, limited physical exertion, or a faster pilgrimage experience. Planning, booking early through the official portal, and staying aware of seasonal timing and safety considerations will significantly improve your experience.

Har Har Mahadev! 🙏