Gangotri Yatra by Helicopter Gives You a Lovely View and a Yatra in Record Time

Summer heralds the onset of Yatras in Uttarakhand as the weather is pleasant, the roads passable and the temples are thrown open to the public. Gangotri Yatra By Helicopter Char Dham yatra in Uttarakhand can be quite enjoyable if one is prepared to undergo some hardships such as trekking before reaching a temple. Gangotri is the second leg of the Chardham yatra, home to the temple of Goddess Ganga.

About Gangotri Dham

Gangotri is located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River at a height of 3100 meters in Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. The Ganges originates in the Gaumukh glacier, about 19 km away. The temple was built by Amar Singh Thapa, a Nepalese General in the 18th century and it follows the North Indian style of architecture. Constructed with white granite, the temple is about 20 feet high and has the usual sabha mandap leading to the garbha griha or the sanctum that houses the idol of Goddess. The temple opens at 6.15 AM for the morning Aarti and closes around 9.30 PM after the evening pooja each day during the yatra season. Akshay Tritiya is when it opens for the public and it closes on Bhai Dooj day occurring just after Diwali in October/November, when the idol is brought down to Mukhba, Harsil, and the winter residence of the Goddess.

This is where Goddess Ganga descended to earth through the matted locks of Lord Shiva and split into five streams of which the Bhagirathi is one. It is said King Bhagirathi undertook penance to bring Ganga to Earth to wash the remains of his ancestors who were denied salvation and his prayers were answered.

Getting There

Pilgrims usually arrive in Haridwar and make their way to Rishikesh on their own or by joining a tour. One can just as well join a tour originating in Delhi. Pilgrims travel to Uttarkashi and then onwards to Harsil, about 25 Km and proceed to Suryakund before reaching Gangotri temple for a dip in the Bhagirathi followed by worship. Trekking can be arduous and some people opt for travel by palanquins or ponies. However, there is a better way and that is Gangotri yatra by helicopter. It cuts down on effort, time and even saves money. Helicopter yatra to Gangotri is perfect for those who do not have days to spend on undertaking the pilgrimage. It is recommended for those who are not in the best of health or for the aged and infirm who cannot walk long distances and bear the rigors of travel. When you think of the cost of surface travel, hotel accommodation, food and other expenses, you will find that in comparison, helicopter ride to Gangotri does not seem too high.

Helicopter Yatra to Gangotri

One can opt for the entire char Dham yatra by helicopter; pick only Yamunotri and Gangotri or just Gangotri. A number of aviation companies are operating in Uttarakhand offering helicopter yatra services from Dehradun. There are also chartered flights direct from Delhi to Chardham. Not all aviation companies offer a direct Gangotri helicopter yatra but a few do. The helicopter usually lifts off from Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun around 7 AM and arrives at Harsil helipad from where one travels by road to Gangotri and enjoys the benefit of priority darshan. By 11 AM pilgrims board the helicopter for the return trip to Dehradun. This means you can complete the yatra in a half day.

Who is it for?

• Busy businessmen who do not have time to spare will find that they can undertake the yatra to Gangotri by helicopter in less than a day.
• Aged people and those in poor health find it easy and convenient since the aviation company makes arrangements and the trip is completed in a day.
• Even those in perfect health can enjoy the flight that gives a splendid view of the Himalayan scenery.

Keep in mind

• If you wish to undertake the Gangotri helicopter yatra book your seat in advance because the helicopter seats only 4 to 5 passengers. Book at least a month in advance and plan well because cancellation policy is rigid and deductions are hefty.
• Obtain your medical certificate-this may be asked for at the time you arrive for check-in.
• Arrive at the helipad at least an hour before the helicopter departs and check-in.
• Carry minimum luggage, just a handbag weighing 2 kgs. Include an oxygen bottle, bottle of water, medications and some dry food.
• The flight may be delayed due to weather conditions or it can be canceled if the weather does not permit. You may receive a full refund. You may get a seat on the next day flight provided a seat is available.
• Get insurance before you travel.

Yatra to Gangotri yatra by helicopter is not only easy and convenient as well as fast but it also gives you a chance to admire the scenery from the air.