The sacred Kedarnath Temple, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites of the Char Dham Yatra. Due to its high altitude (3,583 meters), cold climate, and challenging 16 km trek from Gaurikund, many pilgrims now prefer the Kedarnath Helicopter Yatra for a safer, faster, and more comfortable journey.
If you are planning your Kedarnath Yatra in 2026, this guide explains the latest helicopter booking process, official platforms, helipad details, ticket prices, safety tips, and scam alerts, based on the current system followed by authorities and information ranking in Google’s top results.
Official Booking Authority: Kedarnath helicopter tickets can be booked only through the official IRCTC helicopter portal.
👉 https://www.heliyatra.irctc.co.in/
Mandatory Registration: Char Dham / Kedarnath Yatra registration must be completed first on the Uttarakhand government portal before helicopter booking.
Ticket Availability: Limited seats are released in slots; early booking is strongly recommended.
Operating Season: Helicopter services usually operate from May to October, depending on weather conditions.
⚠️ Important: Avoid all third-party agents and unofficial websites claiming guaranteed tickets.
Top Related Helicopter Tour Packages Prices
Kedarnath by Helicopter from Dehradun (Same Day – Ek Dham)
⏱ 1 Day | 💰 Approx. ₹90,000 – ₹95,000 per person
Kedarnath & Badrinath by Helicopter (Do Dham – Same Day)
⏱ 1 Day | 💰 Approx. ₹1,25,000 per person
Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter from Dehradun (5N/6D)
⏱ 6 Days | 💰 Approx. ₹2,30,000 – ₹2,50,000 per person
Pilgrims can board helicopters to Kedarnath from three officially approved helipads:
Distance from Kedarnath: 31 km
Flying Time: ~9 minutes
One-way Fare: Approx. ₹5,500 – ₹5,800
Altitude: 4,921 ft
Operators: Udan Aviation, Global Vectra, Namaste India Trip, Mr. Pilot
Distance from Kedarnath: 23 km
Flying Time: ~11 minutes
One-way Fare: Approx. ₹5,500 – ₹5,800
Altitude: 6,500 ft
Operators: Himalayan Heli, Udan Aviation, Namaste India Trip
Distance from Kedarnath: 46 km
Flying Time: ~15 minutes
One-way Fare: Approx. ₹7,700 – ₹8,000
Altitude: 4,800 ft
Better facilities and road connectivity
All helipads are connected by road and provide basic passenger facilities.
The helicopter lands at the Kedarnath Helipad, located approximately 500 meters from the Kedarnath Temple.
Pilgrims can reach the shrine in 10–15 minutes by walking.
For elderly pilgrims or those needing assistance, Palki and Doli services are available near the helipad.
The short walk offers peaceful surroundings and breathtaking Himalayan views, making the final part of the yatra spiritually enriching.
Dates are announced officially by the Uttarakhand Char Dham authorities closer to the season.
19 April 2026
Opening takes place on Akshaya Tritiya, a highly auspicious Hindu festival.
Late October or Early November 2026
Closing ceremony usually occurs around Bhai Dooj / Diwali, depending on weather.
Pilgrims should plan helicopter bookings and accommodation only within the official temple opening window.
Choosing a helicopter for Kedarnath Yatra is a smart and practical option, especially in 2026 when demand is high.
Saves Time & Energy: Ideal for pilgrims with limited time.
Avoids the 16 km Trek: No need to walk the steep Gaurikund–Kedarnath route.
Senior Citizen Friendly: Safer and more comfortable for elderly devotees.
Same-Day Darshan Possible: Return within a few hours.
Stunning Aerial Views: Snow-covered peaks, rivers, and valleys from above.
Visit the official Uttarakhand registration portal and complete biometric registration.
Go to heliyatra.irctc.co.in and login using your IRCTC credentials.
Enter your Yatra Registration Number / Group ID.
Choose your preferred helicopter travel date (subject to availability).
Select Phata / Sersi / Guptkashi and available time slot.
Enter passenger details and confirm booking using OTP.
Make payment via UPI, debit card, credit card, or net banking.
Download and print the helicopter ticket for verification.
Book tickets as early as possible
Carry printed ticket + valid ID proof
Weather conditions can cause delays or cancellations
Keep biometric registration details handy
Follow reporting time strictly at helipad
Aryan Aviation
Pawan Hans
Udan Aviation
Himalayan Heli
Thumby Aviation
Kestrel Aviation
Transbharat Aviation
Mr. Pilot
Arrow Aircraft
(Operators may vary each season as per government approval.)
During peak season, many fake websites and agents appear claiming guaranteed Kedarnath helicopter tickets.
Unofficial payment links
Heavy discounts or guaranteed slots
No IRCTC booking reference
✔ Book only via IRCTC official portal
❌ Avoid WhatsApp agents and random websites
Report immediately to Uttarakhand STF helpline: 1090
Never share Aadhaar, OTP, or payment details
The ideal time to visit Kedarnath is:
May to June: Pleasant weather, peak season
September to October: Clear skies, fewer crowds
Avoid July–August (monsoon) due to landslides and flight disruptions.
Booking a Kedarnath Helicopter Yatra in 2026 is simple and safe if done through the correct official process. With proper planning, early booking, and awareness about scams, pilgrims can enjoy a smooth, time-saving, and spiritually fulfilling darshan at Kedarnath Dham.
Q1. Is helicopter booking mandatory for Kedarnath Yatra?
No, helicopter booking is not mandatory. Pilgrims can also reach Kedarnath by trekking from Gaurikund. Helicopter service is an optional facility for those who want a faster and more comfortable journey.
Q2. Where can I book Kedarnath helicopter tickets for 2026?
Kedarnath helicopter tickets can be booked only through the official IRCTC helicopter booking portal. Booking through third-party agents is not recommended.
Q3. Is Char Dham registration required before helicopter booking?
Yes, completing the official Char Dham / Kedarnath Yatra registration is compulsory before booking helicopter tickets. Without registration, booking is not allowed.
Q4. What are the main helipads for Kedarnath helicopter services?
Helicopter services to Kedarnath operate from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi helipads, which are well connected by road and have basic passenger facilities.
Q5. How far is Kedarnath Temple from the helipad?
The Kedarnath helipad is located around 500 meters from the temple. It takes about 10–15 minutes to walk to the shrine.
Q6. Can senior citizens travel to Kedarnath by helicopter safely?
Yes, helicopter travel is considered safe and suitable for senior citizens. However, it is advised to consult a doctor before travel due to high altitude conditions.
Q7. What happens if helicopter services are cancelled due to bad weather?
In case of bad weather or technical issues, helicopter services may be delayed or cancelled. Refunds are processed as per IRCTC and operator guidelines.
Q8. How much luggage is allowed on Kedarnath helicopter flights?
Generally, each passenger is allowed to carry around 2–5 kg of luggage. Excess luggage is not permitted due to weight limitations.
Q9. Is same-day Kedarnath darshan possible by helicopter?
Yes, same-day Kedarnath darshan is possible when traveling by helicopter, subject to weather conditions and flight availability.
Q10. How can pilgrims avoid fake helicopter booking scams?
Pilgrims should book only through the official IRCTC portal, avoid agents offering guaranteed slots, and never share OTPs or payment details with unknown sources.
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