Chardham Yatra By Charter
Embarking on the Chardham Yatra by chartered helicopter is a luxurious and efficient way to visit the four holy shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. This option is ideal for those who wish to complete the pilgrimage in a shorter time frame while enjoying the comfort and scenic beauty of an aerial journey.
### Key Benefits of Chardham Yatra by Charter
1. **Time-Efficiency**: Significantly reduces travel time, allowing the entire yatra to be completed in 1-2 days.
2. **Comfort**: Avoids the long and arduous road journeys and trekking.
3. **Accessibility**: Ideal for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims.
4. **Scenic Views**: Offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscape.
### Top Helicopter Service Providers
1. **Heritage Aviation**
2. **Pawan Hans**
3. **Thumby Aviation**
4. **UTair India**
5. **Aryan Aviation**
### Typical Itinerary for Chardham Yatra by Charter
#### Pre-Yatra Preparations
– **Arrival in Dehradun**: Arrive a day before the scheduled helicopter ride. Stay overnight in a comfortable hotel.
– **Briefing Session**: Attend a briefing session provided by the helicopter service provider, usually held at the hotel or helipad.
#### Day 1: Yamunotri and Gangotri
1. **Departure from Dehradun**
– **Location**: Sahastradhara Helipad, Dehradun.
– **Check-in Time**: Early morning (exact time will be communicated by the provider).
– **Flight Duration to Kharsali (Yamunotri)**: Approximately 45 minutes.
2. **Yamunotri Darshan**
– **Transfer to Yamunotri**: Pony or palanquin ride from Kharsali helipad to Yamunotri Temple (approximately 6 km).
– **Darshan**: Spend time at the temple offering prayers and experiencing the serene atmosphere.
– **Return to Kharsali**: After darshan, return to Kharsali helipad.
3. **Flight to Harsil (Gangotri)**
– **Flight Duration**: Approximately 30 minutes.
– **Transfer to Gangotri**: Drive from Harsil helipad to Gangotri Temple (approximately 25 km).
– **Darshan**: Spend time at the temple offering prayers.
– **Return to Harsil**: After darshan, return to Harsil helipad.
4. **Return to Dehradun**
– **Flight Duration**: Approximately 45 minutes.
– **Overnight Stay**: Stay in a hotel in Dehradun.
#### Day 2: Kedarnath and Badrinath
1. **Departure from Dehradun**
– **Location**: Sahastradhara Helipad, Dehradun.
– **Check-in Time**: Early morning.
– **Flight Duration to Phata/Sersi (Kedarnath)**: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
2. **Kedarnath Darshan**
– **Transfer to Kedarnath**: Shuttle service or direct helicopter to Kedarnath helipad.
– **VIP Darshan**: Enjoy a quick and hassle-free darshan with VIP passes.
– **Temple Visit**: Spend time at the temple offering prayers.
– **Return to Phata/Sersi**: After darshan, return to Phata/Sersi helipad.
3. **Flight to Badrinath**
– **Flight Duration**: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
– **VIP Darshan**: Proceed for a VIP darshan at the Badrinath temple.
– **Temple Visit and Local Sightseeing**: Explore nearby attractions like Mana Village, Vyas Gufa, and Bhim Pul, if time permits.
4. **Return to Dehradun**
– **Flight Duration**: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
– **Arrival**: Late afternoon or early evening, depending on the schedule.
### Preparation and Packing Tips
1. **Clothing**: Carry warm clothes, as temperatures can be low, especially in the early morning and at high altitudes.
2. **Footwear**: Wear comfortable and sturdy walking shoes.
3. **Essentials**: Bring necessary medications, ID proofs, snacks, and water. Pack light due to strict weight limits on helicopters.
4. **Documents**: Keep all necessary documents, including booking confirmation and ID proofs, readily accessible.
### Booking the Helicopter Service
#### Steps to Book
1. **Research**: Look into various helicopter service providers and read reviews.
2. **Compare**: Compare prices, packages, and services offered.
3. **Book in Advance**: Secure your booking well in advance, especially during the peak season (May to October).
#### Cost
The cost for the Chardham Yatra by helicopter typically ranges from INR 1.5 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs per person, depending on the provider and services included.
#### Inclusions
– **Round Trip Helicopter Ride**: Dehradun to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath, and back to Dehradun.
– **VIP Darshan**: Priority access to all temples.
– **Local Transfers**: Shuttle services between helipads and the temples.
– **Meals**: Some packages may include meals or snacks.
### Tips for a Smooth Journey
1. **Punctuality**: Arrive at the helipad well before the scheduled departure time.
2. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water, especially at high altitudes.
3. **Follow Instructions**: Adhere to guidelines provided by the helicopter staff for safety.
4. **Weather Contingencies**: Be prepared for potential delays or rescheduling due to weather conditions.
### Conclusion
The Chardham Yatra by chartered helicopter is a comfortable and spiritually enriching experience. By choosing a reliable service provider and planning carefully, you can ensure a memorable journey to the sacred shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.