Vaishno Devi Yatra Gets Faster! Direct Helicopter Service Launched from Jammu

Great news for pilgrims visiting the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi! Direct helicopter service from Jammu to the temple kicked off today, June 25th, 2024. This new service, launched by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, is a boon for devotees facing time constraints or physical limitations that may make the traditional trek challenging. The new service was launched under the guidance of the shrine board chairman and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

(Photo credit: PTI) Vaishno Devi Yatra Gets Faster! Direct Helicopter Service Launched from Jammu

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This is a separate service from the existing helicopter route operating between Katra (the base camp for Vaishno Devi) and Sanjhi Chhat near the temple. The cost of the Jammu to Vaishno Devi helicopter service is significantly higher than the existing helicopter route between Katra and Sanjhi Chhat, which charges Rs. 2,100 per person for a one-way trip.

Package Options for Faster Darshan

The Shrine Board offers two helicopter service packages to cater to pilgrim needs:

Same Day Return (SDR): This package costs Rs. 35,000 per passenger and allows for a one-day visit to the shrine. Upon reaching Panchi Helipad, pilgrims will be provided with a battery car service to Bhawan, a special darshan pass to expedite their visit, prasad (holy offering), and a priority ticket for the cable car to access Bhairon Temple, another important pilgrimage site. After completing their darshan, pilgrims will be transported back to Panchi Helipad by battery car for the return helicopter trip to Jammu Airport.

Next Day Return (NDR): This package costs Rs. 60,000 per passenger and offers a more relaxed itinerary. Details on the specific inclusions for this package haven't been released yet, but it likely includes overnight stay arrangements near the shrine, along with the transportation and darshan facilities provided in the SDR package.

#WATCH | Katra, Jammu and Kashmir: Direct helicopter services have been started from Jammu to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. pic.twitter.com/YD29YFTZob

— ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2024

"Pilgrims can avail the benefits of the helicopter service from the website...There are two types of packages- same day return and next day return package... This service is part of continuous efforts to provide better facilities to the pilgrims visiting the shrine," stated Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB).

Addressing Challenges, Enhancing Convenience

The introduction of the Jammu-Vaishno Devi helicopter service comes as a welcome relief for pilgrims, especially those facing time constraints or physical limitations. This new option provides a faster and more comfortable mode of transportation compared to the traditional trek route. Additionally, the service aims to address potential difficulties caused by weather fluctuations that can sometimes disrupt the pilgrimage.

Conclusion

This new direct service from Jammu is a significant development for pilgrims visiting Vaishno Devi. It provides a faster and more comfortable travel option, particularly for those facing time constraints or health concerns. The two package options cater to different needs, offering a same-day return or a next-day return option with details to be revealed soon.