Chardham by Helicopter

Trip Itinerary

About the trip

Uttarakhand, also known as Devbhoomi or the Land of Gods, is home to numerous temples and welcomes devotees all year round. Among the countless religious sites and circuits that devotees visit in Uttarakhand, one of the most prominent is the Char Dham Yatra. This Yatra or pilgrimage is a tour of four holy sites – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath – nestled high up in the Himalayas. In Hindi, ‘char’ means four and ‘dham’ refers to religious destinations. The high-altitude shrines remain shut for around six months every year, opening in summers (April or May) and closing with the onset of winter (October or November). It is believed that one should complete the Char Dham Yatra in a clockwise direction. Hence, the pilgrimage starts from Yamunotri, proceeds towards Gangotri, onto Kedarnath, and finally ends at Badrinath. The journey can be completed by road or by air (helicopter services are available). Some devotees even do a Do Dham Yatra or a pilgrimage to two shrines – Kedarnath and Badrinath

Inclusion:-

Exclusion:-

• GST @ 5 %
• Air Fare/Train Fare.
• Meals other than those mentioned explicitly in the itinerary.
• Personal expenses like portages, tips, laundry & Rafting etc.
• Any activity not mentioned in the inclusions etc.

Things to Carry

When embarking on a Kedarnath trip, it’s essential to be well-prepared and pack wisely for the journey. The terrain can be challenging, and the weather can vary, so having the right essentials will ensure a comfortable and safe pilgrimage. Here are some things to carry for your Kedarnath trip:

• • Warm Clothing: Pack layers of warm clothing, including thermals, jackets, sweaters, and gloves, as the temperatures can drop significantly, especially during the evenings and early mornings.
  • Comfortable Trekking Shoes: Choose sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes with good grip to tackle the uneven terrains during the trek to Kedarnath.
  • Rain Gear: Carry a waterproof jacket and pants or a poncho to protect yourself from unexpected rain showers or snowfall.
  • Backpack: A durable and lightweight backpack to carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, a first-aid kit, and other necessities during the trek.
  • Water Bottles and Snacks: Stay hydrated by carrying water bottles and energy-boosting snacks like dry fruits, nuts, energy bars, etc.
  • Personal Medications: If you have any specific medications or prescriptions, carry them in sufficient quantities, along with a basic first-aid kit.
  • Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the strong sun at higher altitudes by using sunscreen with high SPF and wearing UV-protected sunglasses.
  • Hat/Cap: Carry a hat or cap to shield your head from the sun’s rays and keep you warm during colder temperatures.
  • Personal Identification: Carry a valid photo ID like Aadhar card or passport for identification purposes during travel and accommodation.
  • Camera and Binoculars: Capture the breathtaking landscapes and moments during the trip with a camera and binoculars.
  • Personal Toiletries: Pack essentials like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc., for personal hygiene.
  • Extra Batteries and Power Bank: Ensure your electronic devices like mobile phones and cameras have sufficient battery backup. Carry a power bank for emergencies.
  • Torch/Headlamp: A torch or headlamp is essential, especially during night treks or power outages in some areas.
  • Dry Bags/Plastic Bags: Keep your belongings safe from rain or snow by using dry bags or plastic bags to protect them from getting wet.
  • Cash: Carry sufficient cash as ATMs may not be readily available in remote areas.

Confirmation Policy

• Payments can be made either all at once or in 4 parts.
• After processing the booking amount, you will receive an email regarding your booking confirmation.
• Once you have paid 100% of the amount for your booking, you will receive an invoice containing all the information about the trip.

Payment Terms Policy

• Booking amount: 4,000/-
• 30 days before the trip departure: 50% of the total cost.
• 20 days before the trip departure: 70% of the total cost.
• 10 days before the trip departure: 100% of the total cost.

Cancellation Policy

• Cancellations made before 30 days from the date of travel will result in a charge of 20% of the total trip cost.
• Cancellations made between 15 to 30 days from the date of travel will result in a charge of 50% of the total trip cost.
• Cancellations made between 5 to 15 days from the date of travel will result in a charge of 70% of the total trip cost.
• Cancellations made between 0 to 5 days from the date of travel will result in a charge of 100% of the total trip cost.

Refund Policy

• Refund amount will be processed within 15 business working days
• All applicable refunds will be done via Bank Transfer only.

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I reach Kedarnath?

You can reach Kedarnath by either trekking from Gaurikund, which is the base for the Kedarnath Yatra, or opt for a helicopter ride from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi. Alternatively, you can also travel to Gaurikund by road from Haridwar or Rishikesh and then start the trek.

2. When is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the months of May to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather with less chance of heavy snowfall or rainfall, making it safer and more accessible for pilgrims.

3. Is there any accommodation available in Kedarnath?

Yes, there are several guesthouses, lodges, and camps available in Kedarnath for pilgrims to stay. However, it is essential to book in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage season, as the availability may be limited.

4. Do I need to obtain any permits for the Kedarnath Yatra?

Yes, pilgrims need to obtain a permit to visit Kedarnath, which is known as the Kedarnath Yatra Registration. The registration can be done online, and it is mandatory for all travelers, including those trekking or taking a helicopter ride.

5. What should I carry for the Kedarnath trek?

For the trek to Kedarnath, carry warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, rain gear, a backpack, water bottles, snacks, personal medications, a valid photo ID, personal toiletries, torch/headlamp, and any necessary permits.

6. Is the Kedarnath trek difficult?

The trek to Kedarnath can be challenging, especially for those not accustomed to high altitudes or long walks. The terrain can be steep and uneven, requiring a moderate level of fitness. It is advisable to take breaks, stay hydrated, and walk at a steady pace to avoid altitude sickness.

7. Are there medical facilities available in Kedarnath?

Kedarnath has basic medical facilities, and there is a small medical center operated by the Army for emergency medical assistance. However, it is always recommended to carry a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications with you.

8. Can I visit Kedarnath during the winter season?

No, Kedarnath is not accessible to tourists during the winter season, which usually lasts from November to April, due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions. The temple remains closed during this period, and the region becomes inaccessible.

9. Is there any age limit for the Kedarnath trek?

There is no specific age limit for the Kedarnath trek; however, due to the challenging terrain and high altitude, it is advisable for elderly individuals or those with health conditions to consult a doctor before planning the trip.

10. Are there any restrictions for photography in Kedarnath?

Photography is allowed in and around Kedarnath, but it is essential to respect the religious sanctity of the place and refrain from taking photographs inside the temple premises or during religious rituals.