Online Helicopter Service Booking Begins for Amarnath Yatra 2025
Online Helicopter Service Booking Begins for Amarnath Yatra 2025
Blog Article
The Shri Amarnath Yatra, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages, is set to commence on June 29, 2025, and will conclude on August 19, 2025, coinciding with the Raksha Bandhan and Shravan Purnima festival. The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) has officially announced the opening of online helicopter booking services for devotees seeking a seamless and comfortable journey to the holy Amarnath Cave.
Importance of the Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, as it leads to the sacred Amarnath Cave, where the natural ice Shiva Lingam is formed annually. Situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters, the cave is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and requires significant physical endurance to reach. Helicopter services have been introduced to aid pilgrims, ensuring a safer and quicker journey.
Helicopter Routes and Service Providers
Pilgrims can avail helicopter services through two primary routes:
- Neelgrath-Panjtarni-Neelgrath (Baltal Route)
- Pahalgam-Panjtarni-Pahalgam (Pahalgam Route)
The following authorized helicopter operators have been appointed by SASB:
- Global Vectra Helicorp Ltd – Serving the Baltal route
- Himalayan Heli Services – Operating via the Pahalgam route
- Arrow Aircraft Pvt Ltd – Managing flights on both routes
Helicopter Fare Details for 2025
The fare structure for the Amarnath Yatra helicopter service is as follows:
| Route | One-Way Fare (INR) | Round-Trip Fare (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Neelgrath to Panjtarni | ₹3,250 | ₹6,500 |
| Pahalgam to Panjtarni | ₹4,900 | ₹9,800 |
How to Book Helicopter Tickets Online?
To book helicopter tickets for the Amarnath Yatra, pilgrims must follow these steps:
- Visit the official website of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB).
- Click on the helicopter booking link.
- Select the desired route (Baltal or Pahalgam).
- Choose the travel date and time slot.
- Enter personal details and upload the required documents.
- Make the payment online via secure payment gateways.
- Download and print the e-ticket for reference.
Important Note: Bookings are available only on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no offline or priority tickets available.
Required Documents for Booking
Pilgrims need to provide the following documents while booking their helicopter tickets:
- Valid Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, copyright, Voter ID, copyright)
- Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) issued by an authorized doctor
- Travel Itinerary and booking confirmation printout
Key Guidelines for Pilgrims
Before undertaking the Amarnath Yatra, devotees must adhere to the following important guidelines:
- Health Requirements: Due to the high-altitude trek, only physically fit individuals should attempt the yatra. A medical certificate is mandatory.
- Age Restrictions: Children below 13 years, elderly persons above 75 years, and pregnant women (over six weeks) are not allowed.
- Baggage Limit: Each passenger is permitted to carry only one handbag weighing up to 5 kg.
- Check-in Timing: Pilgrims must reach the helipad at least 30 minutes before the departure time.
Travel Duration and Experience
The helicopter journey significantly reduces travel time:
- From Neelgrath to Panjtarni: 7-8 minutes
- From Pahalgam to Panjtarni: 15-20 minutes
Upon landing at Panjtarni, pilgrims need to trek approximately 6 km to reach the Amarnath Cave. Pony and palki services are also available for those who require assistance.
Amarnath Yatra 2025 Safety Measures
To ensure a safe pilgrimage, authorities have implemented strict security protocols:
- Mandatory registration and verification for all pilgrims
- Deployment of Indian Army and CRPF for security
- Installation of CCTV cameras along the route
- Availability of medical camps and emergency services
- Strict monitoring of weather conditions to avoid hazards
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When does Amarnath Yatra 2025 start and end?
A: The yatra begins on June 29, 2025, and concludes on August 19, 2025.
Q2: Where can I book helicopter tickets for Amarnath Yatra?
A: Tickets are available only on the official SASB website: JKSASB.nic.in.
Q3: What is the baggage limit for helicopter passengers?
A: Each passenger is allowed only one handbag, with a maximum weight of 5 kg.
Q4: Are there any offline ticket options?
A: No, all tickets must be booked online on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q5: Is a medical certificate necessary for booking?
A: Yes, a compulsory health certificate (CHC) from an authorized doctor is mandatory.
Conclusion
With the commencement of online helicopter bookings for Amarnath Yatra 2025, devotees can now plan their pilgrimage with ease and comfort. The availability of helicopter services has made the journey significantly safer and more accessible. Pilgrims are advised to book their tickets early to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure a spiritually enriching experience.