Introduction
Starting the Chardham yatra by helicopter from Dehradun’s Sahastradhara helipad is a faster, safer, and more convenient option to travel, offering a premium, time-efficient, and spiritually fulfilling way to visit the four sacred shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand.
It’s Tejaswini. I visited the Char Dham temples with my grandparents in 2025. They are aged between 55 and 60 years. So, I preferred booking the Char Dham yatra with helicopter services to make the yatra much easier for them.
Traditionally, the journey took 5 to 6 days by road and helicopter travel. Travellers seeking comfort, speed, and a hassle-free journey often choose Dehradun to Chardham yatra by helicopter services.
In this blog, this guide covers the route, season, and aerial distance from Dehradun to Badrinath by helicopter, along with travel tips for a meaningful, smooth pilgrimage experience like mine.
This guide focuses on helicopter routes, travel flow, and planning insights. Information about organized helicopter-assisted journeys can be explored separately.
Why Start Char Dham Yatra By Helicopter From Dehradun?
Dehradun is the primary and well-connected starting point for the Himalayan pilgrimage circuit. Choosing to complete the 4 dham yatra by helicopter from Dehradun Uttarakhand, offers significant advantages in terms of time savings, accessibility, and Comfort, allowing pilgrims to complete the pilgrimage in just 5 or 6 days rather than 1 or 2 weeks.
Here are the top reasons to choose Dehradun to Chardham yatra by helicopter:
Time-Saving: A journey that takes 10-12 days by road can be completed in just 5-6 days by helicopter, which allows time-pressed pilgrims to complete the pilgrimage efficiently.
Easy Accessibility: Helicopter service makes pilgrimage accessible for all, including senior citizens, families with young children, or individuals who have health issues.
Comfort & Convenience: Helicopters avoid the physical strain and all the discomfort, including long, bumpy road journeys and strenuous treks. Helicopter-assisted journeys are designed to reduce physical strain and simplify overall travel logistics.
Enhanced Spiritual Experience: Some helicopter-assisted journeys may offer facilitated darshan arrangements, depending on temple systems.
Breathtaking aerial views: The aerial journeys serve panoramic views of the Himalayas, snow-capped peaks, and lush valleys, offering an unparalleled and memorable perspective that can not be achieved by road travel.
Dehradun To Chardham Helicopter Route, Distance & Time
All the flights from Dehradun to Chardham Yatra depart from the Sahastradhara Helipad, the only helipad, making it the official starting point for the yatra.
Aerial Route Overview
| Route Segment | Approx. Aerial Distance | Flight Time | Further Travel |
| Shastradhara helipad, Dehradun to Kharsali Helipad, Janki Chhati (for Yamunotri ) | 94 km by air | 35-40 minutes | 6 km trek by pony/palki service. |
| Kharsali to Harsil helipad (for Gangotri) | 115 km by air | 30-45 minutes | A 25 km drive (on-ground transfer) takes almost 30-40 minutes. |
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| Shuttle flight to Kedarnath helipad, then around 600 meters walk. |
| Guptkashi to Badrinath helipad | 135 km by air | 40-45 minutes | 1 km drive from the Badrinath helipad to the temple. |
| Badrinath to Dehradun | 190 km by air | 55-60 minutes | Return flight to Dehradun’s Sahastradhara helipad. |
Travellers planning to complete the Char Dham Yatra by road can explore a detailed road-based tour option separately.
Key Information On Helicopter Travel
- Starting Point: Shastradhara Helipad, Dehradun
- Temple Sequence: Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath.
- Travel Duration: 4-6 days
- Proximity or further travel: Helipads are generally located near the temples, though some require short vehicle transfers.
Advantages Of Helicopter Travel From Dehradun
- Faster Acclimatization: Helicopter service reduces physical strain and provides an opportunity for faster acclimatization rather than road travel.
- Convenience & Comfort: Helicopter travel allows bypassing long road routes, strenuous trekking, and rugged terrain, providing a relaxed and comfortable journey.
- Safety & Reliability: Helicopter services ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience, which even saves time and is reliable for elderly pilgrims.
- VIP Darshan Access: Some helicopter-assisted pilgrimages may offer facilitated darshan arrangements, depending on local systems. In certain cases, pilgrims may also explore Char Dham VIP Darshan options, subject to temple regulations and availability.
- On-Ground Support & Services: many operators provide support, medical support, making this pilgrimage safe for all, especially for senior citizens.
- Comprehensive Service: Many helicopter-supported itineraries focus on simplifying travel by coordinating accommodation, meals, and transfers.
Sample 6 Days Itinerary From Dehradun To Char dham Yatra By Helicopter
Day 1: Arrival In Dehradun & Briefing
Overview: Arrival at Dehradun and overnight stay in a hotel. Attend a mandatory tour briefing session. Dehradun serves as an operational base for all departures.
Day 2: Dehradun To Yamunotri
Overview: Fly from Shastradhara Helipad in Dehradun to Kharsali Helipad, approximately 35 minutes flight. From Kharsali, transfer to a pony or palki towards Yamunotri Dham. After darshan, return to Kharsali for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Yamunotri To Gangotri
Overview: Depart for Harsil helipad from Kharsali, approx. 30-minute flight. From Harsil, you need to travel by road for around 25 km to reach the Gangotri temple. After Gangotri darshan, return to Harsil for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Gangotri To Kedarnath
Overview: fly from Harsil to Guptkashi/Phata helipad (approx. 30-minute flight). From the Guptkashi/Phata helipad, a shuttle helicopter will take you to Kedarnath Dham (approx. 8-10 minute flight). After Kedarnath darshan, return to Guptkashi, Sirsi, or Phata for an overnight stay.
Day 5: Kedarnath To Badrinath
Overview: fly from Guptkashi to Badrinath helipad, approx. 35-40 minute travel. Upon arrival, proceed to the Badrinath Dham. Explore the nearby Mana village and attend the evening aarti at Badrinath. Overnight stay in a hotel in Badrinath.
Day 6: Badrinath To Dehradun Return
Depart from Badrinath and fly back to Shastradhara helipad (approx. 1-hour flight). The trip will conclude after your drop-off, wherever you choose, Airport or Railway Station.
Who Should Prefer Helicopter Yatra From Dehradun?
A Char Dham Yatra from Dehradun by helicopter is best for senior citizens, time-constrained Travellers, families with young children, physically challenged pilgrims, and those who want to seek a luxurious and comfortable travel experience over strenuous and multi-day road travel. For a detailed breakdown of who benefits most from a helicopter-based Char Dham journey, you can explore our dedicated guide separately.
- Senior citizens & elderly Pilgrims: Helicopter journeys eliminate long mountain journeys and strenuous treks, making the journey manageable and safe for elderly pilgrims.
- People with health concerns: Char Dham by helicopter from Dehradun is accessible for an individual with physical limitations and chronic health conditions, like high blood pressure or asthma, who can fulfill their spiritual journey, but it requires careful planning.
- Busy professionals: Helicopter yatra significantly reduces travel time, allowing pilgrims to complete the Char Dham circuit in just a few days instead of long road travels.
- NRIS with short Holidays: For those visiting India for a limited time period, helicopter tour packages make this journey complete in a short time.
- Families with Young Children: Helicopter travel is an ideal option for families with young children, as it reduces fatigue and provides guided assistance at each location, making the journey smoother.
- Luxury pilgrimage seeker: Traveler who prefer high level of comfort, including luxury accommodation, pre-arranged Chardham VIP Darshan access, and professional logistical support can opt for a Dehradun to Chardham Yatra by helicopter service.
Travellers seeking a professionally managed helicopter-based Char Dham journey with complete on-ground coordination can explore a detailed tour option separately.
Practical & Safety Tips For Dehradun To Char Dham Yatra By Helicopter
Book Early: Booking for helicopter seats and slots fills fast, especially during peak season, so book in advance to secure your seat and to get better details on hotel booking.
Keep Buffer Days: Add one or two extra days in your travel plans for weather delays or any other reasons.
Check Weather: Helicopter services are weather-dependent. Flights can be delayed or canceled due to poor weather, so be prepared for it.
Pack Light & Smart: Use soft duffel bags for packing and keep light, carry essentials such as warm clothes, a medical kit, and others.
Note: Check out our blog on “Things To Carry For Char Dham Yatra 2026”.
Avoid Carrying Heavy Luggage: Most helicopter services follow strict baggage limits, usually around 5 kg per person.
Dress in Layers: The weather in the Himalayan region changes rapidly, so dress in layers and wear warm clothes, including a fleece jacket, gloves, and a woolen cap.
Flight Safety: Listen carefully to the crew and follow the safety guidelines and instructions.
Final Thoughts
Dehradun to Chardham yatra by helicopter is a comfortable and modern way to travel to the holy shrines, significantly reducing travel time for the traditional 10-12 days of road travel, making this pilgrimage manageable for elderly pilgrims and Travellers with limited time.
It offers an unforgettable way to connect with the sacred Himalayas and deities. From inspiring mountain views to smooth transitions between the shrines.
FAQs
1. How much is the Dehradun to Chardham yatra by helicopter price?
Prices vary depending on operator, season, and inclusions. Helicopter Char Dham journeys are generally considered premium services and are costlier than road travel.
2. Which dhams can I cover by helicopter from Dehradun?
You can cover all four dhams, including Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, by travelling via helicopter from Dehradun, which allows a comfortable and time-saving journey.
3. How long does a helicopter Char Dham Yatra take from Dehradun?
The Char Dham by helicopter from Dehradun takes almost 5-6 days to complete. It significantly reduces travel time, as it avoids long road journeys, making it ideal for senior citizens and busy professionals.
4. Do I need to register for Char Dham before taking a helicopter?
Yes, registration is compulsory before availing Chardham helicopter services. Without registration, you will be unable to book a helicopter service. Upon your successful char dham registration, you will receive a URN (unique registration number), which is required for helicopter booking.
Read our blog on the Chardham Registration Process 2026 to know how to register.
5. What is the starting point of the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter from Dehradun?
The Starting point of the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter is Dehradun’s Shastradhara Helipad.
6. What is the route of the Char Dham yatra by helicopter from Dehradun?
The standard Char Dham yatra by helicopter from Dehradun follows a typical route sequence:
Dehradun (Shastradhara helipad) → Yamunotri (Kharsali helipad) → Gangotri (Harsil Helipad) → Kedarnath (Phat/sirsi/guptkashi) → Badrinath (Badrinath helipad) → Dehradun return, taking almost 5-6 days to complete.
7. How far is Char Dham from Dehradun?
The Approx. Aerial distance of each char dham from dehradun are:
Dehradun to Yamunotri (Kharsali Helipad) distance: 94 km by air
Dehradun to Gangotri (Harsil Helipad) distance: 80 km by air
Dehradun to Kedarnath (phata/sirsi/guptkashi): 105-110 km by air
8. Does helicopter fly directly from Dehradun to Kedarnath?
No, helicopters do not fly directly from Dehradun to Kedarnath, devotees must flown to Phata, sirsi or dehradun helipads. From there, a short shuttle flight operates to Kedarnath temple at nearby helipads, as only government helipads are operate for Kedarnath.
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