Helicopter service is a popular option for pilgrims visiting Kedarnath Dham — it saves hours of trekking and reaches deep into the Himalayas in minutes. However, because the terrain and weather in this region are unique, it’s important to follow official procedures, avoid fraud, and understand the process clearly.
Joyful flying and breathtaking views are part of the experience, but safety and official booking must always be your top priority.
✨ Official Booking — Avoid Fraud
🔹 The only official platform to book Kedarnath helicopter tickets is the IRCTC Helicopter Booking Portal:
👉 https://www.heliyatra.irctc.co.in — this portal is sanctioned under government supervision for Char Dham helicopter services.
⚠️ Important Fraud Alert:
- Only book helicopter tickets through the official IRCTC portal above.
- No private agent, unofficial website, WhatsApp number, or third-party site is authorized to sell government helicopter tickets.
- Uttarakhand police and cybercrime units have been actively blocking fake booking websites.
� Main Helicopter Routes to Kedarnath
Helicopter services operate from government-approved helipads en route to Kedarnath:
- 🟡 Phata Helipad: Most common route. Approx 8–10 minutes flight.
- 🟢 Sirsi Helipad: Close to Kedarnath. Flight time around 10–12 minutes.
- 🔵 Guptkashi Helipad: Slightly longer flight (~15 minutes). Good facilities & accommodation nearby.
🧭 Helicopter Booking Process
- 1. Register for Char Dham Yatra: Initial registration on the Uttarakhand Tourism portal is required.
- 2. Visit Official Portal: Go to heliyatra.irctc.co.in.
- 3. Enter Yatra Registration Number: Use your Char Dham/Helicopter yatra reference.
- 4. Choose Helipad & Date: Select Phata, Sirsi, or Guptkashi.
- 5. Enter Passenger Details: Accurate weight and info required for safety.
- 6. Pay Securely: Complete payment on IRCTC portal and download ticket.
- 7. Carry ID: Carry valid photo ID on travel day.
💰 Helicopter Ticket Info (Indicative)
⚠️ Prices are indicative and subject to change each season — always check the official portal.
- • Phata: ₹5,500 – ₹7,500 per person (Return)
- • Sirsi: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 per person (Return)
- • Guptkashi: ₹7,000 – ₹8,500 per person (Return)
🛡 Safety & Weather
Flights in the Himalayas are highly weather-dependent. Even with confirmed bookings, delays or cancellations can occur due to low visibility or wind.
- • Best Time: Morning flights are usually safer and more stable.
- • Clothing: Carry warm clothes as mountaintop weather changes quickly.
- • Instructions: Always listen to ground crew for safety.
📜 Important Tips to Avoid Fraud
- Only book via: heliyatra.irctc.co.in
- Do not trust WhatsApp agents offering "guaranteed seats".
- Never transfer money to personal bank accounts for tickets.
- Report suspicious callers to cybercrime units.
🩺 Refund Policies
If flights are cancelled due to weather, tickets are usually refunded as per the official IRCTC policy. Always check specific terms during booking.