Key Points:
- IRCTC helicopter services for Kedarnath Yatra 2025 run daily from May 2 to May 31.
- Bookings opened April 8, 2025, exclusively on the official IRCTC Heliyatra portal.
- Mandatory Yatra registration on Uttarakhand Tourism’s website is required before booking.
- Helicopter fares increased by 5% for 2025; round-trip prices: Phata ₹6,063, Sirsi ₹6,061, Guptkashi ₹8,533.
- Cancellation refunds depend on timing; no refund within 24 hours of departure.
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched daily helicopter services for the Kedarnath Yatra 2025, making the sacred pilgrimage to the Himalayan temple more accessible and comfortable than ever before. Operating from May 2 to May 31, these services are designed to significantly cut down travel time and effort for devotees, offering a breathtaking aerial journey over the Garhwal Himalayas.
Routes, Fares, and Operators
Helicopter shuttles will operate from three key helipads:
- Phata: ₹6,063 (round trip)
- Sirsi: ₹6,061 (round trip)
- Guptkashi: ₹8,533 (round trip)
These fares reflect a 5% increase over last year, as revised by aviation operators in coordination with the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA). The service is managed by nine authorized aviation companies, including Pawan Hans, Himalayan Heli, and others.
Booking Process: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Mandatory Yatra Registration
- All pilgrims must first register for the Kedarnath Yatra on the official Uttarakhand Tourism portal (registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in).
- New users must create an account, enter journey details (duration, number of travelers, travel dates), and download the Yatra registration letter. This document is essential for booking helicopter tickets.
2. Booking Helicopter Tickets
- Visit the official IRCTC Heliyatra portal (heliyatra.irctc.co.in).
- Sign up using your name, mobile number, and email. Verify via OTP.
- Log in and enter your Yatra registration number.
- Select travel dates, helipad, time slot, and number of passengers (up to six per ticket; group bookings up to 12).
- Complete payment and download your ticket. Carry a printed copy and valid photo ID to the helipad.
Important: Only book through the official IRCTC portal to avoid fraud. No third-party agents are authorized for helicopter ticketing.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
- More than 5 days before departure: 75% refund
- 48 hours to 5 days before departure: 50% refund
- 24 to 48 hours before departure: 25% refund
- Less than 24 hours before departure or no-show: No refund
- Refunds are processed within 5–7 working days to the original payment source. Convenience and transaction fees are non-refundable.
If services are canceled due to weather or technical reasons, a full refund (minus transaction fees) is provided. Passengers must get their tickets stamped at the helipad counter for processing.
Tips for Pilgrims
- Book early to secure preferred dates and time slots, as demand is extremely high.
- Carry a printed ticket and the same ID used for booking; digital copies are not accepted at the helipad.
- Only use the official IRCTC Heliyatra portal for bookings to avoid scams. “With majestic views and a shorter journey, this could be your most comfortable Kedarnath Yatra yet.”
The IRCTC’s helicopter initiative is set to transform the Kedarnath pilgrimage experience, making it safer, faster, and more convenient for thousands of devotees this season.
