Hemkund Sahib Heli Services
Embark on a Divine Aerial Journey to Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib Nestled at an breathtaking altitude of 4,329 meters (14,200 ft) amid the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the pristine Hemkund Lake, Gurudwara Shri Hemkund Sahib is one of Sikhism’s holiest sites.
Dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who meditated here in a previous life, the yatra draws lakhs of devotees annually for its profound spiritual energy. But the traditional 13-km trek from Govindghat to Ghangaria (base camp) can be grueling—especially at high altitude.
Note: Only IRCTC HeliYatra website (heliyatra.irctc.co.in) provides online helicopter ticket booking for Shri Hemkund Sahib. Shri Hemkund Sahib Yatra Registration is mandatory for booking helicopter services.
Managed by IRCTC Heli Yatra in partnership with the Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib Management Trust, it’s weather-dependent but increasingly reliable with advanced forecasting.
In 2025, with mandatory yatra registration via the Uttarakhand Government Portal, booking is seamless. Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or seeking a hassle-free darshan, the heli shuttle combines Himalayan vistas with spiritual grace.
Hemkund Sahib Heli Ticket Price 2025
| Ticket Type |
Heli Route |
Ticket Price
(Adult) |
Ticket Price
(Child 2–12 yrs) |
| Round Trip – Same Day |
Govindghat → Ghangharia → Govindghat |
₹ 10,080 |
₹ 5,040 |
| One Way |
Govindghat → Ghangharia |
₹ 5,500 |
₹ 2,750 |
| One Way |
Ghangharia → Govindghat |
₹ 5,500 |
₹ 2,750 |
*Note:
- Convenience Fee & PG Charges are payable extra.
- Dynamic Pricing on Helicopter Tickets is applicable as per the policy of UCADA
- The above price is subject to change, it was last updated on Nov 2025
Video guide for booking Hemkund Sahib heli tickets
Why Choose Helicopter Shuttle for Hemkund Sahib Yatra?
Skip the sweat and embrace the skies—here’s why over 50,000 pilgrims opted for heli services last season:
| Benefit | Your Yatra Advantage |
|---|
| Lightning-Fast Access | 13-km trek (5–7 hours) → 3–8 min flight; arrive energized for the 6-km Ghangaria trek to the Gurudwara. |
| High-Altitude Ease | Perfect for seniors, families, or those with health concerns—no oxygen deprivation risks on the approach. |
| Stunning Aerial Views | Glide over glacial valleys, the Valley of Flowers (July–Aug), and Alaknanda River— a visual blessing! |
| Priority & Comfort | AC cabins, 4–6 seaters; priority darshan slips available post-landing. |
Pro Tip: Combine with Valley of Flowers trek—land in Ghangaria and explore the UNESCO site just 3 km away! fly early mornings for clearest skies.
Same-Day Shuttle Yatra (Most Popular)
- Govindghat Check-In: Arrive 45–60 min early at helipad (near Joshimath).
- Flight to Ghangaria: 3–8 min scenic hop over lush valleys.
- Ghangaria Base: Quick 6-km trek (or pony ride best to save time) to Gurudwara; darshan.
- Return Trek & Flight: Back to Govindghat by evening cutoff (flights till 5 PM).
Multi-Day Option (next day return helicopter ticket)
- Overnight in Ghangaria guest houses (book via trust).
- Next-day return shuttle.
How to Book: Step-by-Step Guide
Mandatory: Register on Uttarakhand Yatra Portal (registration.uk.gov.in) for Yatra Permit (free, 24 hours valid).
- Online Booking: Via official IRCTC Heli Yatra site (heliyatra.irctc.co.in). Opens Sept 12, 2025 (12 PM) for May–June slots; 60 days advance.
- Current-Day Tickets: At Govindghat Helipad counter (limited; first-come).
- Documents Needed: Printed e-ticket, ID (Aadhaar/Voter), Yatra Permit, health declaration.
- Payment: Online via UPI/card; full refund for weather cancellations (7–14 days).
Safety & Guidelines for Hemkund Sahib Heli Services
- At Helipad: Secure loose items (dupattas, scarves); no photography; follow ground staff.
- Onboard: Seatbelts on; no phones; max weight 80–100 kg/person (pilot’s call).
- Trek Rules: Avoid landslide zones; no crowds; medical fitness for high altitude.
- Health Tips: Acclimatize in Joshimath; carry AMS meds; pregnant women (up to 32 weeks) with doctor’s note.
- Weather: Flights 6 AM–5 PM; monsoons (Jul–Aug) riskier—opt for June/Sept.
Emergency Numbers (Contact Details): Shrine Trust Helpline: 01389-223255 | IRCTC: 139.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Hemkund Sahib Helicopter Shuttle Service
Q. When does the Hemkund Sahib helicopter shuttle service operate?
A. The service runs from May end to October, weather permitting (final dates yet to be announced). Flights are available daily from 6 AM to 5 PM, but early mornings (6–10 AM) are recommended for clearer skies. The yatra portal closes for winter snowfall in November.
Q. What is the route and duration of the helicopter shuttle?
A. The shuttle covers the 13-km route from Govindghat Helipad to Ghangaria Helipad (base camp). The flight takes just 3–8 minutes, depending on weather and load. From Ghangaria, it’s a 6-km trek (3–4 hours uphill) to the Gurudwara—ponies or porters are available.
Q. How much does a helicopter ticket cost in 2025?
A. Round-trip (Govindghat Ghangaria): ₹10,080 per adult (excluding 18% GST; total ~₹11,894). One-way: ₹5,500–₹6,000. Children (2–12 years): Half price. Infants under 2 years/10 kg fly free on laps. Prices are fixed by IRCTC and the Shrine Trust—group. The prices for 2026 are subject to change and will be updated at the earliest.
Q. How do I book Hemkund Sahib helicopter tickets?
A. Mandatory: First register for Yatra Permit on the Uttarakhand Government Portal (registration.uk.gov.in)—it’s free and valid for 24 hours. Then book via the official IRCTC Heli Yatra website (heliyatra.irctc.co.in). Slots open 60 days in advance. Current-day tickets available at Govindghat counter (limited, first-come). Use UPI/card for payment.
Q. What documents do I need for booking and boarding?
A. Printed e-ticket, original ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport), Yatra Registration Number, and health declaration form. For seniors/disabled: Medical certificate if needed for concessions. Arrive 45–60 minutes early at Govindghat with all docs.
Q. What is the baggage and weight allowance?
A. Hand baggage only: 5 kg per person (one small bag). Total passenger weight limit: 375 kg for 5 seats (max 75–80 kg per person, pilot’s discretion). No suitcases, loose items, or valuables—secure everything to avoid risks.
Q. What happens if the flight is cancelled due to weather?
A. Full refund (minus ₹500 convenience fee) processed within 7–14 days via original payment method. You can reschedule if slots are available. Weather is unpredictable in monsoons (July–Aug)—opt for June/September for reliability. No refunds for no-shows.
Q. Is helicopter service available in monsoon (July–August)?
A. Limited—high risk of cancellations due to rain and fog. Services may suspend; trek instead if fit. Best months: May–June or September–October for stable weather.
Q. Who operates the Hemkund Sahib helicopter shuttle?
A. IRCTC Heli Yatra in partnership with the Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib Management Trust and Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Department. Fleet includes 4–6 seater turbines (e.g., Bell 407). Over 50,000 safe flights annually.
Q. What should I pack for the Hemkund heli yatra?
A. Layers/thermals (5–20°C), raincoat (monsoon), sturdy shoes, ID, meds, water bottle, and light snacks (no onboard food). Eco-tip: No plastics—carry reusable bags.