Vaishno Devi Helicopter Booking Guide 2024

Vaishno Devi is considered a Shaktipeeth, imbued with the spiritual energy of the goddess. The main shrine consists of a 5.5 feet tall rock with three heads, representing the goddess. The legend of Vaishno Devi is rich with stories of divine encounters and blessings. The shrine is located in the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir. While the traditional route involves a steep trek, the helicopter service offers a convenient alternative, especially for elderly pilgrims, physically challenged individuals, and parents with young children. This guide provides detailed information on the helicopter service for Vaishno Devi yatra, including booking procedures, pricing, timings, and essential travel tips.

Vaishno Devi Helicopter Yatra

The helicopter service operates between Katra, the base point of the yatra, and Sanjhichatt, a helipad near the Vaishno Devi Bhawan. This service significantly reduces the travel time and physical exertion required to reach the shrine.

Key Features

• Starting Point: Katra Helipad on Udhampur Road, 2 km from the Katra Bus Stand.
• Destination: Sanjhichatt Helipad.
• Flight Duration: Approximately 8 minutes.
• Passenger Capacity: 5-6 passengers per flight.
• From Sanjhichatt to Bhawan: A 30-minute hike (2.5 km), with options for ponies, palkis, and porter services.

Helicopter Ticket Prices

The pricing for helicopter tickets is straightforward and transparent, with no hidden charges or commissions.

One-Way Fare: INR 2100 per person.
Round Trip: INR 4200 per person.
Children Below 2 Years: Travel free of charge but must be seated on an adult’s lap.
Booking Platforms: Official Vaishno Devi Shrine Board website and authorized private companies.
Additional Costs: Applicable taxes may be charged at Katra or Sanjhichatt.

Helicopter Service Timings

The helicopter service operates on a daily schedule, ensuring frequent flights throughout the day to accommodate the large number of pilgrims.

• Service Start: 08:30 AM.
• Service End: 07:00 PM.
• Flight Frequency: Approximately every 20 minutes from both Katra and Sanjhichatt.

Darshan Timings

Pilgrims can plan their helicopter ride in conjunction with the darshan timings to ensure a seamless and fulfilling visit to the shrine.

• Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
• Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM.

Online Booking Process

Booking helicopter tickets online is the most convenient method, allowing pilgrims to secure their tickets well in advance and avoid long queues at the ticket counters.

Steps for Online Booking

• Register: Create an account on the official website maavaishnodevi.org by providing your personal details in the “New User Registration” section.
• Select Dates and Timings: Check the availability for your preferred dates and timings. Each user can book up to 5 tickets at a time.
• Make Payment: Complete the payment process online using a secure portal.
• Download Yatra Parchi: Obtain and print your Yatra Parchi within 48 hours of booking. This document is essential for availing the helicopter service.

Note: Online booking opens 60 days in advance at 10:00 AM and closes 4 days before the journey date.

Offline Booking Process

For those who prefer offline booking, tickets can be purchased at the Current Heli-Ticket Counter in Katra.

Ticket Counter Opening Time: 08:00 AM.
Queue Formation: Pilgrims often start queuing up as early as 05:00 AM to secure tickets.

Cancellation Policy

Understanding the cancellation policy is crucial for managing any changes in travel plans.

Cancellation Window: Tickets can be canceled between 4-7 days in advance.
Refund Policy: 50% of the paid amount is refunded after deducting processing and cancellation charges.
Weather-Related Cancellations: In case of bad weather leading to cancellation of flights, a full refund is provided.

Travel Tips and Regulations

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free yatra, it is important to adhere to the guidelines and regulations set by the authorities.

Important Rules and Regulations:

• ERS Slip: An Electronic Reservation Slip (ERS) is mandatory for availing facilities booked online. Fill the slip in the prescribed format, print it, and carry it during your visit.
• Aarogya Setu App: Pilgrims must have the ‘Aarogya Setu’ app installed on their mobile phones.
• Health Check: Only asymptomatic passengers are allowed to undertake the yatra.
• Masks and Face Shields: Wearing a face mask or face shield is mandatory.
• Hygiene Practices: Pilgrims must wash their hands and feet repeatedly before entering the sanctum sanctorum.
• No Idol Touching: Touching of idols is not permitted.
• No Blankets or Linen: Blankets and linen will not be provided.
• Booking Limit: A maximum of 5 helicopter seats can be booked per user per Debit/Credit card in a calendar month.
• ID Proof: Carry a valid photo ID card, address proof, and the Debit/Credit card used for booking. Acceptable ID proofs include Passport, Driving License, Voter ID, PAN card, or Credit Card with Photo.
• Travel Document Proof: Carry proof of travel document such as bus, train, or air ticket.
• Booking Status: Check the status of your transaction in the Devotee Zone. Only transactions shown as successful are valid. In case of a failed transaction, the amount will be refunded.
• Reporting Time: Report to the helipad at least one hour before the scheduled departure to avoid being marked as No-Show, which results in no refund.

Vaishno Devi Trek

For pilgrims who prefer to trek, the hiking trail from Katra to the Bhawan is well-constructed and shaded. The trek is long but manageable with basic physical fitness.

Trekking Details

• Trail Length: Approximately 13 km.
• Initial Steepness: The first 6 km are the steepest.
• Rest and Refreshments: Eateries and restrooms are available throughout the trail.
• Separate Walkways: Separate paths for walkers and ponies in the last 5 km.

Fitness Tips

Engaging in physical exercise before the journey helps ensure a comfortable trek. The fresh air and serene environment provide a rejuvenating experience, allowing pilgrims to enjoy the darshan without feeling overly fatigued.

Conclusion

The helicopter service for the Vaishno Devi yatra offers a comfortable and efficient way to reach the sacred shrine. By following the booking procedures, understanding the pricing, and adhering to the travel guidelines, pilgrims can ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling journey. Whether choosing to trek or fly, the experience of visiting Vaishno Devi is one of devotion and divine blessing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How far in advance can I book Vaishno Devi helicopter tickets online?
You can book helicopter tickets online up to 60 days in advance. Booking opens at 10:00 AM daily and closes 4 days before the intended date of journey.

2. What should I do if my online transaction fails but the amount is debited?
If the transaction fails but the amount is debited from your bank account, the booking is not valid. You need to make a fresh booking. The debited amount will be refunded to your account.

3. Can I book helicopter tickets offline, and what time should I reach the ticket counter?
Yes, you can book tickets offline at the Current Heli-Ticket Counter in Katra. The counter opens at 08:00 AM, but it is advisable to reach by 05:00 AM as the queue starts forming early.

4. What documents do I need to carry for the helicopter yatra?
Carry a printed copy of the Yatra Parchi, valid photo ID (Passport, Driving License, Voter ID, PAN card), address proof, and the debit/credit card used for booking. You also need to carry proof of travel documents like bus, train, or air tickets.

5. What happens if the helicopter service is canceled due to bad weather?
If the helicopter service is canceled due to bad weather, a full refund is provided. Ensure you have alternative plans in place for reaching the Bhawan if weather conditions are unfavorable

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