The Vaishnodevi Helicopter Service from Katra has transformed the entire pilgrimage into an accessible and convenient journey for everyone. The Vaishnodevi temple is situated at the base of Trikuta mountain, hence the yatra to Maa Vaishno Devi ranks among India’s most challenging yatra.
However, the deep devotion to the Goddess makes pilgrims navigate the difficult trek route. While the Vishnu Devi trek offers adventure, its steep path isn’t suitable for everyone. Numerous individuals, due to health, age, and other reasons, find it hard to embark on this pilgrimage. This is where the Vaishnodevi Helicopter Service comes in handy.
In this article, we will go through the complete guide of Vaishnodevi Helicopter Service.
Planning Vaishno Devi Yatra by Helicopter
To visit the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, you need to reach Katra, which is about 50 km away from Jammu. Katra is the starting point for the journey and is well-connected to the rest of the country.
Here are important things to remember when planning to book Vaishnodevi Helicopter Tickets:
- The registration of Yatra is mandatory, which is free of cost. The counter for registration is available at the main market in Katra or online on the official website of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. Once registered, get the Yatra Parchi (entry slip) from the counter or print the Yatra Access Slip if registered online.
- Take a helicopter from Katra to Sanjichhat, which is just 2.5 km from the shrine. You can book helicopter tickets online on the official website. It’s a good idea to book your affordable Vaishnodevi helicopter ticket price in advance.
- After reaching the shrine area (Bhawan), it’s recommended to take a holy bath at the bathing ghat before you go for Darshan (worship).
- Pack warm clothes during winter, and lighter woolens for summer. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for the journey.
- Along the route, you’ll find information centers, places to eat, and restrooms. Medical stores, banks, and accommodations are also available at the Bhawan for your convenience.
- Carry important documents, your tickets, and enough cash for your trip.
How can pilgrims book a helicopter ride to Vaishno Devi in advance?
The facility of Maa Vaishno Devi helicopter is also available for devotees, who can’t walk much or are short on time. Pilgrims can book helicopter tickets through the Shrine Board’s official website. Advance Vaishnodevi Helicopter Booking can be done 60 days prior to the journey. Passengers must carry a valid photo ID, address proof, and debit/credit card for payment. In the absence of the documents, boarding can be denied.
On-the-spot booking of Helicopter ticket from Katra to Sanjichhat
For the offline booking of Katra to Sanjichhat helicopter tickets can be done from the ticket counter, where the verified ID proof and other travel documents must be presented. The Vaishnodevi Helicopter Price and booking depend on the availability of seats.
Timings of Helicopter Services
The Vaishnodevi Helicopter Service from Katra to Sanjichhat at 8:00 AM, and it approximately takes 8 minutes to reach the destination. The last ride takes off at 7:00 p.m. The availability of helicopter are every 20 minutes from Katra and Sanjichhat.
Guidelines for Availing Helicopter Ticket
- A Yatra registration slip is a must to get a Helicopter ticket at the ‘Current Heli-ticket Counter’.
- All pilgrims need their ID Proof for booking.
- Book tickets online on the shrine board’s official site. Register, log in, and choose travel details, passengers, route, and time.
- Pay using a Credit or Debit Card.
- Be at the heliport an hour before the flight; latecomers are ‘NOT ALLOWED’ with no refund.
- Kids below 2 years can travel free on adults’ lap.
- Online ticket dates can’t change, but can cancel online.
- Cancelling up to 4 days before travel refunds 70%.
- Refund takes 15 days to the same card used.
- Tickets aren’t transferable.
- Failed transactions are refunded.
- During bad weather or tech issues, a full refund will be given; submit a ticket for an online refund.
