The sacred Kedarnath Temple is one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and an important part of the Char Dham Yatra. Every year, thousands of devotees travel to Kedarnath to seek blessings of Baba Kedar. Kedarnath is revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is an important part of both Ek Dham Yatra Package and the Chardham Yatra Package.
For pilgrims who want to avoid the long trek, helicopter (chopper) services provide a convenient and time-saving way to reach Kedarnath. In this blog, we explain the complete step-by-step process for Kedarnath helicopter booking.
Don’t know where to begin to search for hiring a chopper? Relax! We are here to assist you. Whether you want to book a chopper for an all-inclusive Chardham Yatra package deal or want some tips and tricks to enrich your Kedarnath dham yatra experience, follow along.
Why should you consider booking a chopper for Kedarnath?
Kedarnath is a holy place. Millions throng this place every year. Millions visit this place by trekking too. Trekking here can be hectic and time consuming if you have limited time or aren’t physically fit. Helicopter bookings provide you fastest service.
Helicopter Routes for Kedarnath
Helicopter services operate from three main helipads:
- Phata Helipad – Most popular and affordable option
- Sersi Helipad – Short flight duration
- Guptkashi Helipad – Premium service with better facilities
All helicopters land at Kedarnath Helipad, located about 500–700 meters from the temple.
Step-by-Step Guide to Book a Chopper for Kedarnath
- Complete Char Dham Yatra Registration
Before booking a helicopter ticket, you must register for the Char Dham Yatra through the official Uttarakhand tourism portal.
You will need:
- Valid ID proof
- Mobile number
- Travel dates
Without registration, helicopter tickets will not be valid.
- Visit the Official Helicopter Booking Website
Helicopter tickets for Kedarnath are booked online through the official Uttarakhand government portal.
Important tips:
- Visit heliyatra.irctc.co.in (only this site can book your tickets)
- Avoid unauthorized travel agents
- Book only from official platforms
- Tickets sell out quickly during peak season
- Use Registration Details for ticket booking
You can book your ticket by entering Unique Id or Group Id from the registration details on the website of Heliyatra.irctc.co.in
- Choose Your Helipad and Travel Date
Select the departure helipad based on your travel plan:
| Helipad | Distance to Kedarnath | Approx Flight Time |
| Phata | ~31 km | 8–10 minutes |
| Sersi | ~23 km | 7–8 minutes |
| Guptkashi | ~50 km | 12–15 minutes |
Choose:
- Same-day return ticket
- Next-day return option
You don’t have choice to book one way ticket.
- Select Passengers
You can book tickets only for 6 persons at a time.
- Make the Online Payment
Payments can be made using:
- Debit card
- Credit card
- Net banking
- UPI
After payment, After booking the helicopter ticket, you get the tickets on text message, WhatsApp and mail which you can download and print your helicopter ticket confirmation.
Kedarnath Helicopter Ticket Price (Approx)
Prices may vary each year but generally range between:
| Helipad | Ticket Cost (both side) |
| Guptkashi | 12,499/- + taxes (per person) |
| Phata | 8,842/- + taxes (per person) |
| Sersi | 8,839/- + taxes (per person) |
Reporting at Helipad
On the travel day:
- Reach helipad 1–2 hours before departure
- Carry original ID proof
- Carry printed helicopter ticket
- Follow luggage rules (usually maximum 5 kg per passenger)
Weather conditions may affect flight schedules.
Darshan Process After Helicopter Landing
After landing at Kedarnath Helipad:
- Walk or use palki services to reach the temple
- Complete darshan and pooja
- Return to helipad as per allotted time
Many Chardham Yatra package options also include VIP or assisted darshan, reducing wait times during peak season.
Best Time for Kedarnath Helicopter Yatra
The Kedarnath temple usually opens between April/May to November.
Best months to visit:
- May
- June
- September
- October
Avoid peak monsoon months due to weather disruptions.
Spiritual significance of reaching Kedarnath Dham by helicopter.
Many saints believe that true devotion lies in faith, not in physical suffering. Pilgrims are allowed to reach Kedarnath via helicopter.
- energy conservation
- Spend more time in meditation
- Experience darshan peacefully
This makes helicopter services a boon, especially within Ek Dham Yatra package or Chardham Yatra package.
Things to Keep in Mind while Booking a Chopper for Kedarnath
If you are planning to book a chopper ride for Kedarnath then you must stay updated about the weather situation there. As weather in Himalayas gets changed rapidly, chances are your flight might get cancelled due to bad weather. So do check the weather forecast beforehand.
Lastly, consider flight timings carefully. Early morning slots often provide clearer skies and fewer delays compared to later in the day when winds pick up this can enhance your travel experience significantly while ensuring you reach Kedarnath on time.
Conclusion
Helicopter services have made visiting the sacred Kedarnath Temple much easier for pilgrims. By following the proper booking process and planning in advance, you can enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey to one of the most revered shrines of Lord Shiva.
If you are planning your Kedarnath Yatra, booking your chopper tickets early is the key to a hassle-free pilgrimage.
