Verified on TripAdvisor
Swati Kumari
Senior Travel Operations & Ticketing
Best Value
Do Dham Helicopter - Kedarnath & Badrinath
Dehradun Kedarnath Badrinath Dehradun
Kedarnath (Shiva) and Badrinath (Vishnu) in 4 days. Ideal first-timer helicopter yatra - many pilgrims return next season for the full Char Dham.
₹1,40,000 per person (all inclusive)
Itinerary
Get PDF ItinerarySequence may vary subject to weather and helipad availability. Your representative will brief you on Day 1.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- ✓ Return helicopter on Kedarnath & Badrinath
- ✓ VIP Darshan at both temples
- ✓ 3 nights in quality hotels
- ✓ All meals (vegetarian)
- ✓ Ground transfers & guide
- ✓ Uttarakhand portal registration
- ✓ All government permits & fees
Not Included
- · Yamunotri and Gangotri visits
- · Flights to/from Dehradun
- · Personal expenses & tips
- · Travel insurance
Accommodation by Stop
| Night | Location | Property | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Night 1 | Dehradun | Quality Hotel or similar | 3-star |
| Night 2 | Guptkashi (Kedarnath) | Char Machan or similar | 3-star |
| Night 3 | Badrinath | Sarovar Portico or similar | 3-star |
Exact property subject to availability. Equivalent category always maintained. Attached washrooms, hot water, and heating guaranteed at all altitude stops.
Pilgrim Reviews
"Do Dham Yatra by helicopter - everything organised properly"
Excellent team of professionals at Saffron Chariot. Highly reliable and committed service. We were a team of 8 persons with four above 80 years old, and availed Do Dham Yatra by helicopter. Everything was organised properly. Hotel booking was in 3-star properties at very good locations. Every location contact person was very helpful and committed. Mr Rajkumar was our contact person and he helped us throughout our trip. Highly recommended.
Do Dham by Helicopter
"Kedarnath and Badrinath family trip - everything well planned"
We are very much satisfied and happy with Saffron Chariot. They organized an excellent travel plan for us from Delhi to Kedarnath and Badrinath. Everything was well planned and authentic. Our group of 12 members enjoyed the trip immensely. The tempo traveller provided was good and comfortable. The hotels were of good quality, and the meals were tasty. Special arrangements at the Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham premises allowed us to visit the mandirs 3-4 times during our one-night stay, which was a highlight. While we faced some water issues at Sonprayag and Badrinath, the support was exemplary - available 24/7 and promptly answering our calls. Our planner, Ravi, was very disciplined and supportive. Highly recommend their services for a well-organized pilgrimage.
Verified Traveller
Verified on TripAdvisorKedarnath & Badrinath
"Arranged from the UK - an outstanding Char Dham Yatra"
Right from planning to booking and organising, and ending it all on a good note - Saffron Chariot has been outstanding. I arranged this trip from the UK after doing a little research and it turned out to be a very successful Char Dham Yatra. Our travel consultant Shrushti was super in responding and arranging places of our choice. She was courteous, professional and very keen to help. The car was in very good condition and comfortable, and our driver was very experienced and accommodating.
Sanju Baba
Verified on TripAdvisorChar Dham Yatra
"Hassle-free, amazing family trip"
Really appreciate your help in planning the trip and staying in touch throughout the tour. It was a hassle-free, amazing trip for me and my family. Many thanks once again - looking forward to many such trips with your team.
Sandeep B
Verified on TripAdvisor"Well organised and very affordable"
Absolutely well organised trip and much affordable rates. All the hotels arranged were the best property. Driver and the cab were the best.
OnAir
Verified on TripAdvisorKedarnath
Frequently Asked Questions
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 ₹2,35,000 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.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics & Planning
What is the best time of year for Char Dham helicopter yatra?
Two main seasons: (1) May-June: Peak season. Temples open in late April (19-23 April in 2026). Lush green landscapes, moderate temperatures. Most popular month is May. (2) September-October: Post-monsoon. Clearer skies, fewer pilgrims, vibrant foliage. Temples close around mid-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 confirmed: Yamunotri and Gangotri open on 19 April 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya), Kedarnath opens on 22 April 2026, and Badrinath opens on 23 April 2026. All four Dhams close around mid-November 2026 (tentative, near Bhai Dooj). See our <a href="/char-dham-temple-timings/">temple timings page</a> for full details.
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.
Our Tour Managers
The people pilgrims actually speak to before, during, and after the Yatra.
Rashmita Sharma
Travel Consultant & Itinerary Specialist
Ankit Saini
Tour Reservation Specialist
Ritika Tomar
Operations Manager
Questions Pilgrims Ask
24 answered - Grouped by topic. Still unsure? WhatsApp us in under 30 minutes.
Booking & Pricing 6 questions
The Helicopter Journey 6 questions
Health & Seniors 6 questions
Logistics & Planning 6 questions
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 ₹2,35,000 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.
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.
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 is the best time of year for Char Dham helicopter yatra?
Two main seasons: (1) May-June: Peak season. Temples open in late April (19-23 April in 2026). Lush green landscapes, moderate temperatures. Most popular month is May. (2) September-October: Post-monsoon. Clearer skies, fewer pilgrims, vibrant foliage. Temples close around mid-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 confirmed: Yamunotri and Gangotri open on 19 April 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya), Kedarnath opens on 22 April 2026, and Badrinath opens on 23 April 2026. All four Dhams close around mid-November 2026 (tentative, near Bhai Dooj). See our <a href="/char-dham-temple-timings/">temple timings page</a> for full details.
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.
Reserve Your Seat for 2026
24-hour courtesy hold. No payment required to confirm your slot.
Selected: Do Dham Helicopter - Kedarnath & Badrinath ₹1,40,000 per person
24-hr courtesy hold
No advance payment
Free cancellation to 60 days
Saffron Chariot in the Press
Agency Feeds
Why Saffron Chariot Is Becoming a Trusted Name for Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
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Press Releases - ANI
Why Saffron Chariot Is Becoming a Trusted Name for Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
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ANI Press Releases
Why Saffron Chariot Is Becoming a Trusted Name for Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
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Agency News - Business
Why Saffron Chariot Is Becoming a Trusted Name for Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
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Business
Why Saffron Chariot Is Becoming a Trusted Name for Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
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Business
Why Saffron Chariot Is Becoming a Trusted Name for Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter
Read Story →Press release issued via ANI on 13 July 2026 and syndicated by the outlets above.