A new direct helicopter service from Jammu to the shrine for devotees visiting the revered Mata Vaishno Devi shrine was launched on June 25 to enhance the pilgrimage experience for devotees. The service aims to provide a swift and convenient travel option for pilgrims facing time constraints, the elderly, and children. It is expected to significantly benefit those seeking to perform ‘darshan’ at the shrine.
Jammu-Katra Helicopter Service Packages
The new helicopter service for pilgrims departing from Jammu offers two different packages. The first package, costing ₹35,000 per passenger, allows you to return on the same day. The second package, priced at ₹60,000 per passenger, lets you return the following day. The inaugural flight took off from Jammu airport around 11 am and landed at the Panchi helipad, a new part of the route to the shrine. This service provides a convenient option for pilgrims, giving them flexibility with their return schedule. It aims to make the journey to the shrine more comfortable and accessible for all visitors.
Helicopter Service Details And Costs
Anshul Garg, the Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), announced that a private helicopter service has been launched on a trial basis. This service includes two flights each day. For those taking the same-day return package, it consists of a battery car ride from Panchi to Bhawan, a visit to the temple for darshan, and a ropeway ticket to Bhairav temple. The next-day return package offers the same benefits and the chance to participate in special prayers. This service is available for up to 25 people daily. This new initiative aims to enhance the pilgrimage experience for devotees by providing convenient and efficient travel options.
Advantages Of The Panchi Helipad
The Panchi helipad is situated at a lower altitude than the Sanjichhat helipad, which means it experiences fewer problems from bad weather. Garg mentioned that the upcoming two months, which fall during the monsoon season, will be a valuable time for the shrine board and the helicopter operators to gain insights and improve their services. This period will allow them to understand better how to operate effectively during challenging weather conditions, ultimately leading to a more reliable and efficient helicopter service in the future.
Feedback From Pilgrims
A pilgrim from Madhya Pradesh, among the first to use the new service, expressed satisfaction with the experience, PTI reported. He described the service as “highly comfortable” and felt lucky to be among the initial users. The pilgrim noted that the helicopter took only 10 minutes to reach Katra from Jammu, highlighting the convenience of the service for those facing time constraints, older people and children.
Booking And Operational Details
You can now book the new helicopter service to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine through their official website at www.maavaishnodevi.org. You can reserve your spot up to 60 days in advance, but book at least four days before your trip. If you prefer, you can also buy tickets at the Katra ticket counter on the day of your travel.
To ensure a smooth journey, passengers should arrive at Jammu airport by 10:00 am at the latest. This will allow enough time to complete the darshan and return the same day. The last helicopter leaves Sanjichhat for Jammu airport at 2:00 pm Note that flights from Jammu airport continue until around 4:00 pm.
Launching the direct helicopter service from Jammu to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is a significant step in improving the pilgrimage experience for devotees. By offering a swift and convenient travel option, the service aims to cater to the needs of those facing time constraints, such as older people and children.
