Why Choose Helicopter Service

The traditional 14-kilometer trek from Katra to Bhawan can be challenging. Helicopter service reduces your travel time and effort significantly.

• Flight Duration: 5–8 minutes from Katra to Sanjichhat
• Remaining Trek: 2.5 km walk (30–40 minutes) from Sanjichhat to Bhawan
• Total Time Saved: Approximately 5–6 hours compared to full trekking
• Best Suited For: Elderly pilgrims, families with children, physically challenged, or time-constrained travelers

Helicopter Routes and Options (2025)

1) Jammu to Katra — Direct

• Route: Jammu Airport → Katra Helipad
• Duration: 15–20 minutes
• Best for: Travelers arriving by flight at Jammu Airport

2) Katra to Sanjichhat — One-Way

• Route: Katra Helipad → Sanjichhat Helipad
• Duration: 5–8 minutes
• Cost: 2,210 one-way
• Options: Either Katra → Sanjichhat or Sanjichhat → Katra

3) Round-Trip (Same-Day Return)

• Route: Katra → Sanjichhat → Katra
• Duration: 5–8 minutes each way
• Cost: 4,420 round-trip
• Benefit: Includes VIP pass for priority darshan
• Time Limit: Return within 3 hours of landing at Sanjichhat

2025 Helicopter Booking Prices

Step 1: Visit Official Website

• Go to the official portal: www.maavaishnodevi.org
• Avoid third-party websites to prevent fraud.
• Navigate to Online Services → Helicopter Booking.

Step 2: User Registration and Login

Complete registration with accurate details, then sign in.

• Personal Information: Full name, gender, date of birth, nationality
• Contact: Mobile number, email address
• Address: Must match your ID proof
• Security Question: Choose and answer
• Credentials: Username and password are sent to your registered email

Step 3: Select Operator and Route

• Operators: Global Vectra Helicopters; Himalayan Heli Services
• Routes: Katra → Sanjichhat (one-way); Katra → Sanjichhat → Katra (round-trip); Sanjichhat → Katra (return)

Step 4: Enter Travel Details

• Travel Date: Bookings open 60 days in advance
• Passengers: Maximum 5 passengers per booking
• Timing: Choose an available time slot (weather dependent)

Step 5: Passenger Information

• Full name (as per ID), age, gender
• ID type and number: Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID, PAN
• Contact information

Step 6: Payment and Confirmation

• Review booking summary and total fare
• Pay via Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI
• Charges may include GST and processing fees
• Download and print your e-ticket immediately
• Save the confirmation number for reference

Offline Booking Process

For Katra → Sanjichhat Tickets

• Location: Niharika Bhavan, Katra
• Process: First-come, first-served
• When to Arrive: 3–4 AM ;  Current-day booking only
• Counter Opening: Around 6:30–7:00 AM
• Requirements: All family members present with valid ID proof

For Return Tickets (Sanjichhat → Katra)

• Location: Durga Bhavan (near main shrine)
• Availability: Current-day booking only
• Process: Visit after darshan for return tickets

The Complete Journey Experience

At Katra Helipad

1. Arrive 1–1.5 hours before departure
2. Present printed ticket and valid ID
3. Security screening; restricted items apply
4. Receive boarding token
5. Use shuttle service from check-in to helipad

During Flight

• Duration: 5–8 minutes scenic flight
• Views: Trikuta mountains
• Baggage: One handbag up to 5 kg per passenger

At Sanjichhat Helipad

1. Landing at approximately 5,600 ft altitude
2. Round-trip passengers collect VIP priority pass (yellow slip)
3. Proceed 2.5 km to Bhawan by walk, pony, palki, or battery vehicle (where available)
4. Same-day return passengers must manage a 3-hour window

VIP Pass Benefits and Priority Darshan

What it is: A priority darshan pass (yellow slip) provided to round-trip helicopter passengers that allows faster access compared to regular queues.

• How to get: Automatically included with round-trip tickets
• Collection point: Sanjichhat helipad upon landing
• Validity: Same-day darshan only
• Alternative: Book Atka Aarti separately (paid)

Documents and Requirements

Mandatory Documents

• Printed helicopter ticket (e-ticket)
• Original government photo ID: Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID, or PAN
• Yatra Parchi (travel permit) — can be booked online separately
• Payment card used for booking (may be required for verification)

Health and Safety

• Consult a doctor if pregnant or if you have medical conditions
• No strict age limit; assess personal capability for the remaining trek
• Flights are weather-dependent and may be cancelled
• Travel insurance recommended

From Sanjichhat to Bhawan: Options

Walking

• Distance: 2.5 km; Time: 30–40 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate uphill
• Cost: Free

Pony Ride

• Time: 20–25 minutes
• Provider: Shrine Board authorized

Palki Service

• Time: 25–30 minutes
• Recommended for elderly or physically challenged pilgrims

Helicopter Service Timings (2025)

• Daily Operations: 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM (weather & daylight permitting)
• Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes during peak hours
• Last Flight: Depends on weather and daylight
• Peak Season: Extended hours during Navratri and festivals

Booking Tips for Success

Advance Planning

• Online booking opens 60 days in advance at 10:00 AM
• Peak seasons (Navratri, New Year, school holidays) sell out quickly
• Keep flexible date options
• Each user can book up to 5 tickets per month

Payment Best Practices

• Keep the payment card handy for verification
• Check booking status in the Devotee Zone
• If payment fails, wait for the automatic refund; avoid duplicate attempts
• Always download and print tickets immediately

What’s Included vs Additional Costs

Ticket Includes

• Flight transportation between designated helipads
• Basic ground handling at helipads
• Shuttle service from check-in to helicopter
• Safety briefing and equipment

Additional Costs

• Yatra Parchi: Free for All
• Accommodation in Katra
• Meals and local transport
• Pony/Palki services for Sanjichhat → Bhawan
• Prasad and offerings

If Helicopter Is Unavailable

• Battery car service: Katra → Adhkuwari (approx. ₹75 one-way)
• Traditional trek: 14 km walking journey (5–6 hours)
• Pony ride: Full trek on horseback
• Mixed options: Combine battery car + trek + helicopter return

Cancellation and Refund Policy

• Advance Cancellation: Allowed up to 7 days before travel; typically 75% refund
• Weather Cancellation: 100% refund if flights are cancelled by authorities
• No-Show: No refund

Refund Process: Usually 7–10 working days to the original payment method; processing fees may apply.

Safety Measures and Regulations

Flight Safety

• Typical aircraft: Airbus AS350 B3 or similar high-altitude helicopters
• Pilots: Certified mountain-flying specialists
• Weight limit: Around 450 kg per flight including passengers and baggage
• Regular maintenance and safety checks

Passenger Guidelines

• One handbag up to 5 kg per passenger
• Phones/cameras may be restricted during flight and returned after landing
• Health declaration may be required in specific cases
• All passengers are covered under flight insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book helicopter tickets for others?

Yes. All passengers must be present with valid ID at the time of travel.

What if weather cancels my flight?

You will receive a full refund.

Is food provided during the helicopter journey?

No. Carry light snacks and water for the overall journey.

Can senior citizens travel by helicopter?

Yes. Please consult a doctor and consider the remaining 2.5 km trek.

How early should I book?

Bookings open 60 days in advance at 10:00 AM. Book as early as possible during peak seasons.

Best Time for Helicopter Booking

Optimal Seasons

• March–June: Pleasant weather
• September–November: Post-monsoon, excellent visibility
• December–February: Cold but generally clear

Peak Booking Periods

• Navratri festivals
• New Year (late December to early January)
• School vacations (April–May, October–November)
• Long weekends

Conclusion

Helicopter service to Mata Vaishno Devi offers a convenient, time-saving, and spiritually fulfilling experience. Follow the steps above to ensure a smooth booking process and a successful pilgrimage.

Key Takeaways

• Always use the official website maavaishnodevi.org
• Book exactly 60 days in advance for best availability
• Keep backup travel plans during peak seasons
• Round-trip tickets provide priority darshan benefits
• Carry all required documents and arrive early at helipads