Most Popular Package
Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
5 Nights / 6 Days – Standard
Complete all 4 sacred Dhams — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath — with VIP Darshan, all meals, and 3-star hotels.
Yamunotri Gangotri Kedarnath Badrinath
₹2,20,000 per person · all inclusive · GST included
6Days
4Dhams
4.9★Rating
4,000+Pilgrims
5 NightsQuality 3-star hotels at each stop
All MealsPure vegetarian, from Day 1 dinner
VIP DarshanPre-arranged at all 4 temples
No TrekkingHelicopter to each dham helipad
Ground SupportOur team present at every dham
Govt. PermitsUttarakhand portal registration included
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A perfectly paced 6-day journey — one Dham per day, so you can experience each temple fully without rushing.
Day 1
Arrive in Dehradun
Arrive at Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport or Dehradun Railway Station). Our representative meets you and transfers you to your hotel. Pre-tour briefing in the evening covering safety protocols, luggage limits (5kg per person), flight timings, and the day-by-day plan.
Day 2
Dehradun → Yamunotri Dham
YamunotriEarly morning helicopter from Sahastradhara Helipad (Dehradun) to Kharsali. Ground transfer to Janki Chatti. Palkhi/doli service to Yamunotri temple for VIP Darshan. Return to Kharsali for overnight stay.
Day 3
Yamunotri → Gangotri Dham
GangotriHelicopter from Kharsali to Harsil. Road transfer to Gangotri temple. VIP Darshan at Gangotri — the source of the sacred river Ganga. Return to Harsil for overnight stay.
Day 4
Gangotri → Kedarnath Dham
KedarnathHelicopter from Harsil to Sersi (Kedarnath base camp). Shuttle helicopter from Sersi to Kedarnath helipad. VIP Darshan at Kedarnath — one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India. Return to Guptkashi for overnight stay.
Day 5
Kedarnath → Badrinath Dham
BadrinathHelicopter from Guptkashi to Badrinath. VIP Darshan at Badrinath temple. Optional visit to Mana Village — the last Indian village before the Tibet border. Overnight at Badrinath.
Day 6
Badrinath → Dehradun (Return)
Morning helicopter from Badrinath back to Dehradun. Airport/railway station drop by our team. Your Char Dham Yatra is complete. Blessings and safe travels.
Itinerary sequence may vary slightly depending on weather and helipad availability. Your Saffron Chariot representative will brief you on any adjustments on Day 1.
The Four Sacred Dhams
Each dham has its own spiritual significance, unique landscape, and temple. Here is what to expect at each.
1
Yamunotri
- Deity
- Goddess Yamuna
- Altitude
- 3,291m
- Nearest Helipad
- Kharsali
2
Gangotri
- Deity
- Goddess Ganga
- Altitude
- 3,048m
- Nearest Helipad
- Harsil
3
Kedarnath
- Deity
- Lord Shiva
- Altitude
- 3,584m
- Nearest Helipad
- Sersi → Kedarnath
4
Badrinath
- Deity
- Lord Vishnu
- Altitude
- 3,100m
- Nearest Helipad
- Direct
What's Included
Everything you need for a smooth, comfortable yatra. No surprises, no hidden charges.
Included in This Package
- Helicopter Transfers
- Return helicopter on all 4 Dhams (Dehradun ↔ Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath)
- DGCA-approved Bell 407 / Airbus H125 / AS350 B3 aircraft
- Shuttle helicopter from Sersi to Kedarnath helipad (included)
- Darshan & Spiritual
- VIP Darshan at all 4 temples (pre-arranged slots)
- Palkhi/doli service at Yamunotri (Standard — shared)
- On-ground Saffron Chariot representative at each dham
- All temple entry and management fees
- Accommodation
- 5 nights in 3-star equivalent hotels (double occupancy)
- Dehradun: Quality Hotel or similar
- Kharsali (Yamunotri): Kalindi Hill Top or similar
- Harsil (Gangotri): Nature Retreat or similar
- Guptkashi (Kedarnath): Char Machan or similar
- Badrinath: Sarovar Portico or similar
- Meals
- All meals from Day 1 dinner through Day 6 breakfast
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner — pure vegetarian throughout
- Packed lunch on helicopter travel days
- Documentation & Transfers
- Uttarakhand tourism portal registration (RFID/biometric)
- All government permits and helipad fees
- Dehradun airport/railway station pickup on Day 1
- Dehradun airport/railway station drop on Day 6
- Ground transfers between helipads and temples
Not Included
- Flights to/from Dehradun
- Personal expenses & tips
- Palkhi/doli at Yamunotri (optional add-on)
- Travel insurance
Upgrade to Premium for ₹2,40,000
- 4-star hotels (Hyatt Regency Dehradun)
- Private ground transfers (not shared)
- Personal tour guide (not group)
- Palkhi/doli at Yamunotri — included (not add-on)
- Jain meals on request
Accommodation by Stop
Carefully selected for hot water, attached bathrooms, heating at altitude, and proximity to helipads.
| Night | Location | Hotel (Standard Category) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Night 1 | Dehradun | Quality Hotel or similar | 3-Star |
| Night 2 | Kharsali (Yamunotri) | Kalindi Hill Top or similar | 3-Star |
| Night 3 | Harsil (Gangotri) | Nature Retreat or similar | 3-Star |
| Night 4 | Guptkashi (Kedarnath) | Char Machan or similar | 3-Star |
| Night 5 | Badrinath | Sarovar Portico or similar | 3-Star |
All hotels confirmed at booking. Exact property may vary based on availability — equivalent category always maintained. Attached washrooms, hot water, and heating guaranteed at all altitude stops.
Standard vs Premium — Which is Right for You?
Both packages cover the same 4 Dhams with helicopter, VIP Darshan, and full ground support.
| Feature | Standard ₹2,20,000 | Premium ₹2,40,000 |
|---|---|---|
| All 4 Dhams by helicopter | ✓ | ✓ |
| VIP Darshan at all temples | ✓ | ✓ Priority |
| All meals (vegetarian) | ✓ | ✓ + Jain option |
| Uttarakhand portal registration | ✓ | ✓ |
| On-ground team support | ✓ | ✓ Personal guide |
| Hotels | 3-star | 4-star (Hyatt Dehradun) |
| Transfers | Group (shared) | Private (exclusive) |
| Palkhi at Yamunotri | Add-on cost | Included |
| Book This Package | Book Standard → | Book Premium → |
What Pilgrims Are Saying
"Booked from the US for my parents — flawless from start to finish"
I was coordinating this from New Jersey for my 68-year-old parents. The Saffron Chariot team responded to every WhatsApp message within minutes, even accounting for the time difference. My parents said they felt completely taken care of at every dham. My father has a heart condition and their ground team checked on him multiple times a day. Tears of gratitude when they described their Kedarnath darshan. Worth every rupee.
Char Dham 5N/6D – Standard
"At 74, I completed all 4 Dhams. I never thought this was possible."
My wife and I are both 74. We had almost given up on the idea of Char Dham Yatra because of my knee problem. Our son suggested the helicopter option. The team arranged palkhi for my wife at Yamunotri and their person was always walking beside us at each temple. No rushing, no chaos. We did darshan at all 4 dhams with full peace of mind. I will recommend Saffron Chariot to every senior I know.
Char Dham 5N/6D – Standard
"3 generations, 1 yatra — the best family trip we have ever taken"
We traveled as a family of 6 — my in-laws (70s), my husband and I (50s), and our two adult children. The team handled all our different needs perfectly. The in-laws got extra help and slower pace at the temples; our kids loved the helicopter rides and the Himalayan views. VIP darshan meant we weren't standing in queues for hours, which was essential with elderly members. Hotels were comfortable even at Badrinath. Truly memorable.
Char Dham 5N/6D – Standard
"I was scared of helicopters. Now I am planning my next trip."
I had never been on a helicopter before and was genuinely nervous. The pilot and the crew made me feel completely at ease before the first flight. Once we were in the air over the Himalayas — I completely forgot my fear. The views of Kedarnath from the helicopter are something I cannot put into words. September was a perfect time — less crowded temples, crystal clear skies. The team was warm and professional throughout.
Char Dham 5N/6D – Standard
"Worth every rupee. The road journey would have taken 15 days."
We completed all 4 Dhams in 6 days. The road journey would have taken 15 days and enormous physical strain for our family. Yes the helicopter package costs more upfront, but when you calculate hotels, food, and transport for 15 days on the road — plus the physical cost on older bodies — helicopter is actually comparable in total cost. And the experience is incomparable. VIP darshan saved us hours at every temple. I have already recommended 3 families.
Char Dham 5N/6D – Standard
"Our ladies group of 8 had the most spiritual and joyful yatra"
Eight of us — all ladies aged 55–70 — traveled together. Every single one of us has only glowing things to say. The team was respectful, professional, and ensured our safety and comfort at every step. At each dham, darshan was peaceful and unhurried. September weather was perfect. The Himalayan helicopter views alone are worth the trip. We are already planning our Do Dham follow-up for next year.
Char Dham 5N/6D – Standard
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before booking the Char Dham 5N/6D Standard package.
Booking & Pricing
What is the cost of Char Dham Yatra by helicopter in 2026?
Our packages start at ₹2,20,000 per person for the 5N/6D Standard package, and ₹2,40,000 for the Premium package. The Do Dham package (Kedarnath + Badrinath only) starts at ₹1,40,000 per person. All prices are all-inclusive — helicopter transfers, VIP darshan, hotels, all meals, on-ground support, and government charges. GST is included. There are no hidden charges.
Is there a group discount for Char Dham helicopter booking?
Yes. Groups of 6 or more receive preferential pricing. Groups of 12 or more may qualify for a private helicopter charter arrangement. Please contact us via WhatsApp or call for a custom group quote with your group size and preferred travel dates.
When should I book to get seats for May–June 2026?
We strongly recommend booking 3–4 months in advance. May and June seats — the peak season — typically fill by January–February. September–October seats fill by July. Early booking also allows more flexibility in choosing your preferred departure dates. Waiting until March or April for a May trip is a significant risk.
Can I book Char Dham helicopter from outside India (NRI booking)?
Yes, we handle NRI bookings regularly. You can book via email, WhatsApp, or our online inquiry form. Payment can be made via international bank transfer (SWIFT), international credit/debit card, or UPI (for NRIs with Indian bank accounts). We require a valid passport copy instead of Aadhaar. Our team handles everything on the ground — you just need to arrange flights to Dehradun.
What documents are required for helicopter booking?
Indian nationals: Valid Aadhaar card (mandatory for Uttarakhand tourism portal registration). NRIs and foreigners: Valid passport. Additionally, all passengers must be registered on the Uttarakhand government's Char Dham tourism portal — we complete this registration on your behalf as part of your confirmed booking. No extra effort needed from your side.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept bank transfer (NEFT/RTGS/IMPS), UPI, credit card, debit card, and international wire transfer for NRI bookings. A 30–50% advance is required to confirm your booking. The balance is due before your departure date. We provide a GST invoice for all bookings.
The Helicopter Journey
How many days does Char Dham Yatra by helicopter take?
Our standard package is 5 Nights / 6 Days: Day 1 is arrival and briefing in Dehradun. Days 2–5 cover one Dham per day by helicopter. Day 6 is the return helicopter from Badrinath to Dehradun. It is possible to complete all 4 Dhams in 5–6 days versus the traditional 10–15 days by road.
What type of helicopter is used for Char Dham Yatra?
We operate Bell 407, Airbus AS350 B3, and H125 helicopters — the same aircraft types used across all DGCA-approved Char Dham helicopter services in India. These are proven, high-altitude performance aircraft. Each helicopter carries 5–6 passengers. All aircraft hold current DGCA approvals.
What is the weight limit per passenger for the helicopter?
The standard baggage limit is 5 kg per person in a soft-sided bag (no hard suitcases). Passenger body weight above 75 kg attracts a nominal surcharge, which must be declared in advance. The total helicopter load (all passengers + baggage) is strictly monitored for safety at high-altitude helipads.
Is the helicopter ride safe at Himalayan altitudes?
All Char Dham helicopter operations are strictly governed by DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) regulations. Flights are weather-dependent and are operated only within safe meteorological parameters. Pilots are certified for high-altitude operations. Our aviation partners have impeccable safety records. Helicopter yatra is significantly safer than road travel at altitude due to elimination of mountain road risks.
What happens if the helicopter flight is cancelled due to bad weather?
Weather cancellations are possible, particularly in early June (pre-monsoon). Our itinerary includes a buffer where possible. If a flight is cancelled due to weather, we reschedule to the next available slot. In cases of extended weather delays (2+ consecutive days), we offer rescheduling or a refund for the unserviced day per our cancellation policy. We keep you informed in real time — our ground team monitors weather at each helipad.
Where does the Char Dham helicopter journey begin?
All our packages originate from Dehradun (Sahastradhara Helipad). If you are flying in, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. We also pick up from Dehradun Railway Station. Dehradun is well connected by air from Delhi, and by overnight train from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.
Health & Seniors
Can elderly or senior pilgrims (age 70+) take the helicopter yatra?
Yes — and helicopter yatra is specifically recommended for seniors and elderly pilgrims. The helicopter eliminates all trekking. Our ground team assists with walking support at each dham. Our hotels are selected for accessibility (ground-floor options where available, attached washrooms, hot water). We have successfully served pilgrims up to age 82. If your loved one can walk short distances (100–400m on paved paths), they can complete Char Dham by helicopter.
I have heart disease / high blood pressure. Can I do Char Dham by helicopter?
We strongly recommend consulting your cardiologist before booking. Key altitudes: Kedarnath 3,584m, Badrinath 3,100m, Gangotri 3,048m, Yamunotri 3,291m. If your doctor clears you for high-altitude travel, helicopter yatra is significantly safer than road travel as it eliminates physical exertion and trekking. Please carry your medications, a recent ECG, and a fitness certificate from your physician. Inform us at booking so we can make appropriate arrangements.
What is altitude sickness and can it affect helicopter yatra pilgrims?
Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness / AMS) can occur above 2,400m when the body receives less oxygen. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Our itinerary is paced to allow gradual acclimatization. We carry emergency oxygen at all dham points. Pilgrims with prior AMS history should inform us at booking. If you feel unwell at any point, our ground team will respond immediately. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and not rushing at the temples significantly reduces AMS risk.
I have knee problems or arthritis. Can I manage the Char Dham helicopter yatra?
Yes. Helicopter yatra is specifically designed for pilgrims with mobility limitations. The helicopter lands close to each temple, requiring only a short walk (100–400m on paved/semi-paved paths). At Yamunotri, where there is a longer path to the hot spring, we arrange palkhi (palanquin) or doli service for those who need it. Please inform us at booking so we can pre-arrange assistance at each stop.
Is Char Dham yatra by helicopter suitable for diabetic pilgrims?
Yes, with proper preparation. Diabetic pilgrims should: carry sufficient insulin/medication for the full trip plus extra, monitor blood glucose more frequently at altitude (altitude can affect readings), carry fast-acting glucose (sweets/glucose tablets), and inform our ground team at the briefing. All our hotels have refrigeration for insulin storage. We provide vegetarian meals throughout — please inform us of any dietary requirements at booking.
What medical facilities are available at each Dham?
Each dham has basic medical facilities operated by the government. Kedarnath has the most comprehensive setup including a government medical centre and NDRF presence. Our ground team carries a first-aid kit at all dham points. For serious emergencies, helicopter evacuation to Dehradun is possible from all helipads. We strongly recommend travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
What's Included
Are meals included in the Char Dham helicopter package?
Yes. All meals are included from Day 1 dinner through Day 6 breakfast — breakfast, lunch, and dinner at every stop. All meals are pure vegetarian throughout the yatra. Jain meals can be arranged with advance notice. On helicopter travel days, a packed lunch is provided. Meals are hot, wholesome, and prepared hygienically at each destination.
What type of hotels are included in the helicopter package?
The Standard package includes clean, comfortable 3-star equivalent properties selected for location, hot water availability, attached washrooms, and heating at high-altitude stops. The Premium package includes 4-star properties including Hyatt-affiliated hotels in Dehradun. All hotels are within convenient distance of helipads. We do not use hotels that compromise on attached washrooms or heating.
Is VIP darshan actually guaranteed or just advertised?
VIP darshan entry is pre-arranged through our temple liaisons. While we cannot control absolute queue times on exceptionally high-footfall days (certain auspicious dates), our pilgrims consistently enter within 20–40 minutes versus 3–6 hour general queues. We have maintained this for every batch we have operated. If for any reason the VIP arrangement is disrupted, we escalate immediately through our on-ground contacts.
Do I need to do any trekking on the helicopter package?
No compulsory trekking at any Dham. The short walk from helipad to temple entrance is 100–400 metres on paved or semi-paved path. At Yamunotri, if you wish to visit the hot spring (Surya Kund), there is a 6km path from Janki Chatti — palkhi/doli service is available for those who prefer not to walk. At Kedarnath, there is a 500m walk from the shuttle helipad to the temple on a well-maintained paved path.
Is pickup from Dehradun airport or railway station included?
Yes. Our standard rate includes one pickup from Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport or Dehradun Railway Station) on Day 1, and one drop on Day 6. For arrivals outside standard hours or multiple pickups, please discuss with our team at booking.
Logistics & Planning
What is the best time of year for Char Dham helicopter yatra?
Two main seasons: (1) May–June: Peak season. Temples open from late April/early May. Lush green landscapes, moderate temperatures. Most popular month is May. (2) September–October: Post-monsoon. Clearer skies, fewer pilgrims, vibrant foliage. Temple closures begin in October–November. Both seasons are excellent. September–October often has better visibility for the helicopter rides. Avoid July–August (monsoon — high weather cancellation risk).
When do the Char Dham temples open in 2026?
The 2026 temple opening dates are typically announced in February–March by the temple committees. Approximate 2026 openings: Yamunotri & Gangotri — late April 2026; Kedarnath & Badrinath — early to mid-May 2026. We will update our website with confirmed 2026 dates as soon as they are announced. Subscribe to our updates to be notified first.
What should I pack for Char Dham helicopter yatra?
Essential items: (1) Warm layered clothing — temperatures at Kedarnath can drop to 4–10°C even in June; (2) Comfortable walking shoes with grip; (3) Sunglasses and sunscreen — UV intensity is very high at altitude; (4) Personal medications + a spare supply; (5) Warm inner layers (thermal undershirt); (6) Rain poncho (especially June); (7) Devotional white/simple clothing for darshan; (8) Cash in small denominations for daan, prasad; (9) Water bottle. Total baggage: 5kg per person (soft bag only — no hard suitcases). A complete packing list is emailed to you after booking.
Is the Uttarakhand government portal registration mandatory?
Yes. The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board mandates registration for all Char Dham yatra visitors, including helicopter yatra passengers. This involves an online registration, RFID card issuance, and biometric data in some cases. We complete this entire registration process on your behalf as part of our booking service. You do not need to do anything additional.
Can I bring my own puja items and offerings?
Yes. Personal puja items — malas, photos of deities, flowers — are welcome. Note that liquids above 100ml may be restricted due to helicopter weight and safety rules. Fresh flowers, coconuts, and sweets can also be purchased at stalls near each temple if you prefer not to carry them.
How many passengers fit in the helicopter?
Our helicopters carry 5–6 passengers per flight. If your group is larger, multiple flights are coordinated. For groups of 12+, we can arrange chartered helicopter services. The pilot may decide to adjust passenger loads based on altitude conditions and total weight — safety always takes priority.
