About Kedarnath Helicopter Services 2026
Kedarnath helicopter booking for 2026 is one of the most searched topics during the Yatra season, as tickets often sell out within minutes of opening. Many pilgrims face issues such as seat unavailability, OTP delays, payment failures, or confusion about the official booking process.
Helicopter services operate from Guptkashi, Phata, and Sersi, offering a fast and convenient way to reach Kedarnath Temple without completing the 16 km trek from Gaurikund.
In this complete guide, you will find:
- Official IRCTC helicopter booking process (step-by-step)
- 2026 ticket prices from all helipads
- Common booking problems and how to avoid them
- Refund rules and cancellation policy
- Baggage limits and safety advisory
If you are planning Kedarnath Yatra 2026 and want to book helicopter tickets safely through the official IRCTC portal, this article covers everything you need to know.
Kedarnath Helicopter Booking 2026 -Rules
1) Kedarnath helicopter services for 2026 operate from three authorized helipads:
- Guptkashi
- Phata
- Sersi
2) All helicopter tickets can be booked only through the official IRCTC Heli Yatra portal (https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in/)
3) This website is owned and operated by IRCTC:- No private website, travel agent, or offline operator is authorized to issue Kedarnath helicopter tickets.
4) Mandatory Registration Before Booking:- Before booking helicopter tickets, pilgrims must complete the official Char Dham Yatra registration at: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
Helicopter booking is not allowed without completing this registration.
5) Important Booking Rules
- Maximum 6 passengers per ticket
- Only 2 tickets per account (maximum 12 passengers per account)
- Registration date must match your travel date
- Booking window generally opens between Tour Date -3 and Tour Date +2
- Carry a printed copy of the ticket
- Each passenger must carry the original valid ID proof
- Soft copies of tickets or ID cards may not be accepted at the helipad
- If you are travelling in a large group, you may need to create multiple accounts to complete bookings.
6) Travel Date Alignment:- Kedarnath helicopter booking must strictly align with your registered yatra date. Always ensure your registration and travel slot match to avoid cancellation or entry issues.
Kedarnath Helicopter Booking Price List 2026
There are many helipad points for the Kedarnath yatra by helicopter; the major hubs are Guptkashi, Phata, and Sersi. Here’s the information on Guptkashi, Sersi, and Phata to Kedarnath helicopter booking and price.
Here’s the detailed information about the Kedarnath helicopter ticket price from different helipads:
| Takeoff Point | Cost Per Person | Companies operating from this Helipad |
| Guptkashi | ₹12,444 | 1) Aryan Aviation 2)Trans Bharat Aviations |
| Phata | ₹8,842 | 1) Pawan hans 2) Thumby Aviation 3) Global Vectra Helicorp 4) Trans Bharat Aviations |
| Sersi | ₹8,839 | 1) Himalyan Heli Services 2) Kestrel Aviation 3) Arrow Aircraft |
Gaurikund To Kedarnath Helicopter Price
As there is no helipad in Gaurikund, there is a nearby helipad option: Kedarnath, which is Sersi. From there, you can take a helicopter to Kedarnath. The helicopter fare for Kedarnath is ₹8839 from Sersi to Kedarnath to Sersi.
Sonprayag To Kedarnath Helicopter Price
There’s no helipad in Sonprayag, but you can do the Kedarnath yatra helicopter booking from the nearby helipads, such as Phata and Sersi. Book helicopter tickets for Kedarnath in advance to avoid delays and last-minute problems.
Guptkashi To Kedarnath Helicopter Price
From Guptkashi, you can take the Kedarnath helicopter services from the Guptkashi helipad, which takes 10 to 15 minutes. Prefer booking in advance and visit the helipad one hour before departure. Helicopter charges for Kedarnath are ₹12,444 per person for a round trip.
When Will Kedarnath Helicopter Booking Open in 2026?
Kedarnath helicopter booking for 2026 has not been officially announced yet. The opening date will be declared by IRCTC on its official Heli Yatra portal.
Based on previous years’ trends, helicopter ticket booking usually opens a few weeks before the temple opening date, generally around late March or early April.
Pilgrims are advised to:
- Complete Char Dham registration in advance
- Keep required ID proofs ready
- Regularly check the official IRCTC Heli Yatra website for updates
- Avoid booking through unauthorized agents or unofficial websites
- Once the official 2026 helicopter booking dates are released, this page will be updated accordingly.
How to Book Kedarnath Helicopter Tickets Online (Official IRCTC Process 2026)
Kedarnath helicopter tickets can be booked only through the official IRCTC Heli Yatra portal. Below is the correct booking flow for 2026.
Step 1: Complete Char Dham Registration
Before booking helicopter tickets, complete your Yatra registration on the official Uttarakhand Government portal.
After registration, you will receive a Group ID. This Group ID is mandatory for helicopter booking.
Step 2: Login to the IRCTC Heli Yatra Portal
Visit the official website: https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in/
Login using your registered mobile number and email ID.
Step 3: Enter Group ID & Select Travel Date
After login,
- Enter your Char Dham Registration Group ID
- Select your travel date
Step 4: Choose Helipad & Aviation Company
Next, you will:
- Select your preferred helipad (Guptkashi / Phata / Sersi)
- View the list of aviation companies operating from that helipad
- Choose the available option (same-day return or next-day return, depending on availability)
Available seats will be displayed on the screen
Step 5: Select Passengers
- Passenger details linked to that Group ID will be automatically fetched
- Choose the passengers from your Group ID list
- Click on Book Seat
Step 6: OTP Verification
After clicking “Book Seat”:
OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number and email
Enter the OTP to proceed
Step 7: Pay & Confirm Booking
- Select your preferred payment mode
- Click on Pay & Book Now
Complete the online payment
After successful payment, your helicopter ticket will be generated on the screen. Download and print the ticket for verification at the helipad.
Common Problems Faced During Kedarnath Helicopter Booking & Solutions
Booking helicopter tickets through the IRCTC Heli Yatra portal can sometimes show errors due to high traffic or technical issues. Below are common problems and their solutions.
1) Seats Not Available
Problem:- Shows “No seats available” even though booking just opened.
Reason:- High demand during peak season (May–June). Seats get booked within minutes.
Solution:-
- Login 5–10 minutes before booking opens
- Keep Group ID ready
- Use fast internet connection
- Try alternative helipad (Phata / Sersi / Guptkashi)
2) OTP Not Received ( 90% get this)
Problem:-OTP not received on mobile or email.
Solution:-
- Check spam folder in email
- Ensure mobile network is active
- Wait 1–2 minutes and request OTP again
- Avoid refreshing page multiple times
3) Payment Failed but Amount Deducted
Problem:- Money deducted but ticket not generated.
Solution:-
- Wait for 10–15 minutes
- Check booking status in login dashboard
If ticket not generated, amount is usually auto-refunded within 5–7 working days
4) Group ID Not Fetching Details
Problem:-Passenger details not showing after entering Group ID.
Reason:-Registration date mismatch or incorrect Group ID.
Solution:-
- Verify Yatra registration date
- Ensure helicopter date matches registration
- Recheck Group ID carefully
5) Website Slow or Not Loading
Reason:- Heavy traffic during booking opening time.
Solution:
- Avoid multiple browser tabs
- Use laptop instead of mobile
- Try during non-peak hours
Manchala Mushafir Advisory – Practical Tips to Secure Kedarnath Helicopter Tickets
Kedarnath helicopter tickets are highly competitive and often sell out within minutes. Based on practical booking experience, here are important advisory points for pilgrims planning helicopter booking in 2026.
1) Booking Date & Time Advisory
- Helicopter booking dates are usually announced 1–2 days in advance.
- Keep checking the official IRCTC Heli Yatra portal regularly.
- In previous years, booking has typically opened around 12:00 PM (noon).
- The timing may change in 2026, so always confirm the official announcement.
- Log in at least 10–15 minutes before the booking time.
2) Keep Details Ready Before Login
Before booking starts:
- Write your Group ID on paper.
- Keep Aadhaar card numbers (or passport details for NRI passengers) ready.
- In some cases, especially for NRI registrations, passenger details may not auto-fetch properly — so keep details handy.
3) Helipad Selection Strategy
When helipad options appear:
- Select your preferred helipad quickly.
- Scroll and check all available aviation companies.
- Sometimes lower-listed helicopter operators have better availability.
- If you prefer same-day return or next-day return, check availability carefully before confirming.
4) OTP Issues – Most Common Problem
The most frequent issue occurs after selecting passengers and clicking “Book Now”.
OTP may be delayed.
- Usually, OTP arrives faster on email than on mobile.
- Keep refreshing your email inbox (including spam folder).
- Avoid refreshing the booking page repeatedly.
5) Payment & Ticket Generation Issues
Sometimes after payment:
The website may freeze.
Ticket may not immediately generate.
Important:
- Do NOT press the back button.
- Do NOT close the browser immediately.
- Login from another device and check “Booking Status”.
- In most cases, the ticket gets generated if payment is successful.
6) Payment Time Limit
You are usually given 10–15 minutes to complete payment.
If payment is not completed within this time, seats are automatically released.
Always keep payment method ready before clicking “Book”.
7) Final Advisory
- Avoid panic booking.
- Do not trust agents claiming “guaranteed helicopter tickets”.
- Book only through the official IRCTC portal.
- Stay patient during high-traffic hours.
Health And Safety Advisory for Kedarnath by Helicopter
Kedarnath Temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 ft) above sea level in the Himalayan region. Due to high altitude, cold weather, low oxygen levels, and strong UV radiation, pilgrims may experience discomfort — especially those travelling directly by helicopter, as there is limited time for acclimatization.
Even though the helicopter ride is short, the temple area remains a high-altitude zone where weather conditions can change quickly.
Common High-Altitude Symptoms
Some pilgrims may experience mild altitude-related symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty sleeping
If symptoms worsen or feel severe, seek medical assistance immediately at the nearest medical camp.
If you have pre-existing heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions, consult your doctor before planning the yatra.
Important Safety Tips for High Altitude
✔ Do’s
| ❌ Don’ts
|
What Is the Baggage Limit for Kedarnath Helicopter Services?
Passengers travelling by helicopter to Kedarnath are allowed only one small shoulder bag weighing up to 5 kg. Extra luggage is not permitted due to aircraft weight restrictions. All passengers are weighed before boarding, and seat allocation may be adjusted based on total weight for flight safety.
Do Passengers Get Weighed Before the Kedarnath Helicopter Ride?
Yes. Every passenger is weighed before boarding the helicopter. Weight is calculated individually to ensure proper aircraft balance and safety. In some cases, excess weight charges may apply as per operator guidelines.
How Much Luggage Is Allowed in the Kedarnath Helicopter?
Only one shoulder bag up to 5 kg per passenger is allowed. Large suitcases and additional baggage are not permitted. Travellers should carry only essential items for a smooth boarding process.
What Are the Terms and Conditions for Kedarnath Helicopter Booking 2026?
Passengers travelling by helicopter to Kedarnath must follow specific rules related to age, baggage, health, and safety. Below are the key terms and conditions applicable for 2026 bookings.
1) Infant Policy
- Children aged 2 years or below can travel free of charge.
- The child’s weight should not exceed 10 kg.
- A valid birth certificate must be shown at the helipad for age verification.
2)Weather Cancellation Policy
- Helicopter services may be cancelled due to bad weather, especially during the monsoon season.
- In case of weather-related cancellation, the full ticket amount is refunded to the original payment method.
- No additional compensation such as accommodation or meals is provided by the operator.
3) Passenger Conduct & Fitness Rules
The helicopter operator has the right to deny boarding to passengers who:
- Are intoxicated or carrying alcohol
- Misbehave with staff
- Are medically unfit to fly
- Carry prohibited or dangerous items
4) Darshan Time for Same-Day Return
Passengers booking same-day return tickets are usually allowed around 2 hours for darshan at Kedarnath. Delays due to personal reasons are not the responsibility of the helicopter operator.
5) Seating & Weight Adjustment Policy
Passengers are weighed before boarding.
The operator may adjust seating or regroup passengers to maintain aircraft weight balance.
6) Prohibited Items
The following items are strictly not allowed onboard:
- Inflammable materials
- Arms and ammunition
- Explosives
- Compressed gas cylinders
Refund And Cancellation Policy Of Kedarnath Helicopter Services 2026
| S.No. | Time of Cancellation before the starting time of the booked slot | Refund |
| 1 | More than 5 days before the departure timeslot | 75% of the ticket booking amount |
| 2 | Between 48 hours and 5 days before the departure time slot | 50% of the ticket booking amount |
| 3 | Between 24 hours and 48 hours before the departure time slot | 25% of the ticket booking amount |
| 4 | Less than 24 hours before the departure time slot | No Refund |
| 5 | No Show (Not reporting 1 hour before the departure time slot at the helipad) | No Refund |
Conclusion
Kedarnath helicopter booking for 2026 requires timely registration, correct booking through the official IRCTC portal, and proper preparation before the tickets open. Since seats are limited and demand is high, staying updated and keeping your Group ID and documents ready is essential.
Plan in advance, follow official guidelines, and book carefully to ensure a smooth and hassle-free Kedarnath Yatra.
Related Guide |
FAQ's
How to book a helicopter for Kedarnath?
For Kedarnath helicopter booking services, visit the official IRCTC Heli Yatra portal “https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in/” to avoid scams. There is no other site for Kedarnath helicopter booking online. Register with a similar Valid ID used for the Kedarnath yatra registration, and carry the hard copy of the ticket and ID card for helicopter services.
When will helicopter booking open for Kedarnath 2026?
Kedarnath booking generally opens a few months before the yatra. Near late March and early April, according to the Kedarnath temple opening and closing dates for 2026.
How many people can sit in the Kedarnath helicopter?
The maximum seating capacity of the Kedarnath helicopter varies from company to company. Here at Kedarnath Helicopter Services, 6 and 8-seater helicopters generally operate.
How safe are the Kedarnath Helicopter services?
Helicopter operations at Kedarnath are directly monitored by DGCA (Director General of Civil Aviation) and UCADA (Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority). All companies operating Kedarnath helicopter services in this region must comply with all the rules defined for companies in civil aviation. So, you need not worry about anything. Kedarnath Helicopter Services is completely safe.
Is the Kedarnath helicopter ticket amount refundable?
Yes, it's refundable; you can check the Kedarnath helicopter service refund policy from the section above.
How long is the helicopter ride in Kedarnath helicopter services?
The duration of the helicopter ride varies at the takeoff point. It ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, including the boarding and deboarding. The longest Helicopter ride will be from Guptkashi, while the shortest one will be from the Sersi helipad.
What is the timing of the last helicopter in Kedarnath helicopter services?
The last flight for the Kedarnath helicopter service is at 6:00 PM, and the first flight will be at 6:00 AM. So plan your trip and stay accordingly.
How far is the Kedarnath temple from the helipad?
The helipad at Kedarnath is very close to the Kedarnath temple. It is just 500 meters from the temple.
Can we book a one-sided helicopter to Kedarnath?
No, a helicopter to Kedarnath can't be booked for one side. You need to book both sides of the aircraft from the https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in/ website.
How much does a Kedarnath helicopter service ticket cost for kids?
There are only two Kedarnath Temple helicopter booking prices. Kids under 2 will be exempt and can travel free of cost, while those above this age group will be treated as adults and will be charged accordingly.
What if the Kedarnath helicopter service is cancelled?
Helicopter tickets will be cancelled due to technical faults and bad weather. If your flight is cancelled, the full amount will be refunded to the account used to book the Kedarnath helicopter ticket. There will be a GST and a convenience charge when returning the amount.
At what age can kids go on a helicopter?
There is no upper or lower age limit for helicopter rides at Kedarnath. All infants under 2 can travel for free. All others have to pay the full amount for the ride.
Do you get weighed before the helicopter?
Yes, every passenger will be weighed before the helicopter ride to the Kedarnath temple. All those weighing more than 80 kgs have to pay INR 150 per kg. Weight will be calculated individually and will not be clubbed with any other passengers.
