Exclusive Chardham By Helicopter
Chardham Yatra by helicopter is a luxurious and convenient way to visit the four holy shrines in Uttarakhand, India: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Here’s an overview of what this exclusive tour might include:
### Overview of Chardham Yatra by Helicopter
1. **Duration**: Typically, the entire yatra can be completed in 4-5 days.
2. **Starting Point**: The journey usually starts from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand.
3. **Helicopter Services**: Private charter helicopters are used, often 5-seater or 6-seater crafts, ensuring a comfortable and exclusive experience.
4. **VIP Darshan**: Special arrangements for quick and hassle-free darshan (sightseeing and worship) at each shrine.
5. **Accommodation**: Luxurious and comfortable stays at the best available hotels and guest houses near the shrines.
6. **Guides and Support**: Professional guides and ground staff to assist with the yatra, ensuring a smooth experience.
7. **Meals**: Inclusive of meals, often catering to specific dietary requirements.
8. **Ground Transportation**: Premium vehicles for ground transfers from the helipads to the shrines.
### Detailed Itinerary
#### Day 1: Dehradun to Yamunotri
– **Departure**: Early morning helicopter flight from Dehradun to Kharsali.
– **Transfer**: From Kharsali helipad, transfer to Yamunotri by palki/pony (approximately 6 km trek).
– **Darshan**: Visit Yamunotri Temple.
– **Return**: Back to Kharsali and overnight stay.
#### Day 2: Yamunotri to Gangotri
– **Departure**: Helicopter flight from Kharsali to Harsil.
– **Transfer**: Drive to Gangotri (approximately 25 km).
– **Darshan**: Visit Gangotri Temple.
– **Return**: Drive back to Harsil for an overnight stay.
#### Day 3: Gangotri to Kedarnath
– **Departure**: Helicopter flight from Harsil to Phata/Guptkashi.
– **Transfer**: Change of helicopter to fly from Phata to Kedarnath.
– **Darshan**: Visit Kedarnath Temple.
– **Return**: Fly back to Phata/Guptkashi and overnight stay.
#### Day 4: Kedarnath to Badrinath
– **Departure**: Helicopter flight from Phata/Guptkashi to Badrinath.
– **Darshan**: Visit Badrinath Temple.
– **Sightseeing**: Possible visit to Mana Village (the last village before the Tibetan border).
– **Overnight**: Stay in Badrinath.
#### Day 5: Badrinath to Dehradun
– **Departure**: Helicopter flight from Badrinath to Dehradun.
– **Completion**: Arrival in Dehradun by afternoon, marking the end of the yatra.
### What to Expect
– **Luxury and Comfort**: High standards of service, comfortable accommodations, and exclusive arrangements for darshan.
– **Time-Saving**: Helicopter travel significantly reduces travel time compared to road journeys.
– **Personalized Services**: Tailored to meet individual needs, including dietary preferences and personal requests.
### Important Notes
– **Weather Conditions**: Helicopter services are highly dependent on weather conditions. Flights can be delayed or rescheduled in case of bad weather.
– **Fitness**: Even with helicopter travel, some amount of walking/trekking is involved, especially for Yamunotri.
– **Booking**: It is advisable to book well in advance, as slots for helicopter services can fill up quickly.
### Cost
– **Price Range**: The cost can vary widely depending on the service provider, the level of luxury, and the specific inclusions. Generally, it ranges from INR 1.5 lakhs to 3 lakhs per person (approximately USD 2,000 to 4,000).
This exclusive Chardham by helicopter tour offers a unique blend of spiritual fulfillment and luxurious travel, making it an attractive option for those looking to undertake the pilgrimage with maximum comfort and minimum hassle.
The “Chardham Yatra” refers to a pilgrimage to four sacred shrines in India: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These are located in the state of Uttarakhand in the Himalayas. The journey is traditionally undertaken by road, but for those looking for a more convenient and luxurious option, a helicopter tour is available. This is particularly advantageous given the challenging terrain and long distances involved in the traditional route.
Here’s a detailed guide on the best exclusive Chardham Yatra by helicopter:
### Overview of the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter
**Duration**: Typically 4 to 5 days
**Starting Point**: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
### Day-by-Day Itinerary
#### Day 1: Dehradun to Yamunotri
– **Morning**: Departure from Dehradun’s Sahastradhara Helipad to Kharsali Helipad (Yamunotri).
– **Activities**: Visit the Yamunotri Temple. Ponies or palkis can be arranged for a trek from the helipad to the temple (around 6 km each way).
– **Accommodation**: Return to Kharsali for an overnight stay.
#### Day 2: Yamunotri to Gangotri
– **Morning**: Departure from Kharsali Helipad to Harsil Helipad (Gangotri).
– **Activities**: Drive to Gangotri Temple (around 25 km from Harsil). After darshan, explore the picturesque surroundings of Harsil Valley.
– **Accommodation**: Return to Harsil for an overnight stay.
#### Day 3: Gangotri to Kedarnath
– **Morning**: Departure from Harsil Helipad to Guptkashi/Sersi Helipad.
– **Activities**: Transfer from Guptkashi/Sersi to Kedarnath by shuttle services or a helicopter shuttle. Visit Kedarnath Temple. Return to Guptkashi/Sersi.
– **Accommodation**: Stay overnight at Guptkashi/Sersi.
#### Day 4: Kedarnath to Badrinath
– **Morning**: Departure from Guptkashi/Sersi Helipad to Badrinath Helipad.
– **Activities**: Visit Badrinath Temple. Explore Mana Village and other nearby attractions.
– **Accommodation**: Overnight stay in Badrinath.
#### Day 5: Badrinath to Dehradun
– **Morning**: Departure from Badrinath Helipad to Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun.
– **Conclusion**: Tour concludes with drop-off at the Dehradun helipad.
### Inclusions and Exclusions
**Inclusions**:
– Helicopter transfers from Dehradun to all four shrines and back.
– VIP darshan at all temples to avoid long queues.
– Accommodation in premium hotels or guest houses.
– All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the tour.
– Local transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary.
– Services of an experienced tour guide.
**Exclusions**:
– Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and tips.
– Travel insurance.
– Any additional expenses incurred due to unforeseen circumstances like bad weather.
### Things to Keep in Mind
– **Weather**: Helicopter services are highly dependent on weather conditions. Delays or rescheduling might occur.
– **Health**: Consult with your doctor if you have any health issues, as the high altitude may cause discomfort.
– **Clothing**: Pack warm clothing and comfortable footwear due to the cold climate in the Himalayas.
### Booking and Pricing
– **Pricing**: The cost of a Chardham Yatra by helicopter can be significant, often ranging between INR 1.5 lakhs to 3 lakhs per person. Prices can vary based on the season, helicopter service provider, and inclusions.
– **Booking**: It’s advisable to book well in advance through a reputable tour operator specializing in helicopter tours of Chardham. Ensure they have good reviews and provide comprehensive services.
### Recommended Tour Operators
– **Heritage Aviation**: Known for their reliable services and comprehensive packages.
– **Pawan Hans Helicopters**: Offers various packages and is a trusted name in aviation.
– **Trans Bharat Aviation**: Provides tailored packages with luxury accommodations.
This itinerary provides a hassle-free, luxurious way to undertake the sacred Chardham Yatra, ensuring a memorable spiritual journey with comfort and convenience.