Every year, millions of people visit Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, one of India’s most important religious sites. The temple is located in the hills near Katra in Jammu and Kashmir. Pilgrims walk 12 kilometers from Katra to reach the Bhawan. For many, this walk is a spiritual journey. But for others, it can be tiring or even impossible due to health issues or age.
The Shrine Board helicopter booking system helps solve this problem. It allows pilgrims to fly from Katra to Sanjichhat, which is close to the temple. The helicopter ride takes just 8 minutes. From Sanjichhat, the Bhawan is only 2.5 kilometers away. This system is managed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, which ensures the service is safe, fair, and easy to use.
This guide explains how to book, what to expect, and why this option is helpful. It uses simple language and short sentences so everyone can understand. Whether you are planning your first trip or returning after many years, this guide will help you.
What Is Shrine Board Helicopter Booking?
The Shrine Board helicopter booking system allows you to book a helicopter ride from Katra to Sanjichhat and back. It is an official service offered by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. Only the Shrine Board can approve and run these helicopter services. This ensures that flights are safe and bookings are real.
You must book your ticket through the official website. This website is secure and easy to use. It helps you select your travel date, flight time, and number of passengers. The system works on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it is best to book early.
Using this booking system means you do not have to deal with middlemen or agents. It saves you time, money, and stress.
Why Use a Helicopter to Visit Vaishno Devi?
- Saves Time
Walking to the Bhawan can take 6 to 10 hours. The helicopter ride takes only 8 minutes. This means you can reach the temple quickly and spend more time in prayer.
- Helps People Who Cannot Walk Long Distances
Some pilgrims are old. Others may have health issues or injuries. The helicopter service helps them visit the temple without facing physical strain.
- Good for Families with Children
Traveling with young children can be hard. Long walks and crowded paths may not be safe for them. The helicopter makes the journey easy and safe for the whole family.
- Offers Scenic Views
The helicopter flies over green hills and valleys. Passengers get a beautiful view of the mountains. It makes the journey even more special.
How to Book Helicopter Tickets Online
Booking through the Shrine Board helicopter booking system is simple. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to www.maavaishnodevi.org. This is the only official website.
Step 2: Register as a New Devotee
If this is your first time, click on ‘New Devotee Sign Up’. Fill in your name, phone number, and email. Create a password.
Step 3: Log In
Use your new username and password to log in.
Step 4: Click on Helicopter Booking
Find the ‘Helicopter Booking’ option. Select your travel date and flight type (one-way or round trip).
Step 5: Enter Passenger Details
Fill in names, ages, gender, and ID information. Make sure the information matches the ID you will carry.
Step 6: Make Payment
You can pay using a credit card, debit card, or net banking. The website is secure.
Step 7: Download and Print Ticket
Once payment is successful, your ticket will be ready. Print it or save a copy on your phone.
Flight Details and Timing
- Flight Route: Katra to Sanjichhat
- Flight Duration: 8 minutes
- Daily Schedule: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (subject to weather)
- Passengers per Flight: 5 to 6 people
- Report Time: Arrive 1 hour before your flight
If you miss your flight, the ticket is canceled. No refund is given for missed flights.
Fare Details
- One-Way Fare: ₹1,830 per person
- Round-Trip Fare: ₹3,660 per person
- Children Under 2 Years: Travel free (no seat given)
Prices are fixed by the Shrine Board. They do not change during festivals or high seasons. This keeps the system fair for all.
Luggage Rules and ID Proofs
Each passenger can carry only one small bag. The maximum weight is 5 kilograms. Heavy bags are not allowed.
You must carry:
- Your printed or digital ticket
- A valid government photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID)
- A yatra slip (downloaded from the Shrine Board website)
If you are under 2 years old, bring age proof to travel free.
What to Do After Reaching Sanjichhat
The Bhawan is 2.5 kilometers from Sanjichhat. The path is safe and has rest points. You can:
- Walk on foot (takes 30 to 40 minutes)
- Hire a pony or palki
- Use battery-powered vehicles (if available)
Shops, toilets, and water stations are available on the way. Once you reach the Bhawan, you can deposit your bags in lockers. Then, proceed for darshan.
How to Cancel a Helicopter Ticket
You can cancel your booking through the Shrine Board helicopter booking system:
- Log in to your account.
- Click on the ticket you want to cancel.
- Press ‘Cancel Ticket’.
You must cancel at least 48 hours before your flight time. You will get 80% refund. The Shrine Board keeps 20% as a service fee. Refunds go back to your original payment method. It may take up to 15 working days.
You cannot change your travel date. If your plan changes, cancel your ticket and book again.
What If the Flight Is Canceled Due to Weather?
The helicopter service runs only if the weather is clear. Rain, fog, or strong winds can cancel flights. If this happens:
- You will get a full refund.
- No cancellation fee will be charged.
- You will not get a new date. You must book again.
Weather updates are posted on the official website. Check the site before leaving for the helipad.
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Do not use agents or third-party websites. Book only from the Shrine Board.
- Double-check your ID and passenger details before booking.
- Print your ticket and carry a backup on your phone.
- Arrive early at the helipad. Latecomers lose their seat.
- Do not carry sharp items, alcohol, or banned objects.
Best Time to Use the Helicopter Service
High Season
- March to June (summer vacation)
- Navratri (twice a year)
- December (New Year)
Book early. Tickets sell fast. Use the booking system as soon as it opens — 60 days before your travel date.
Low Season
- January to February
- Monsoon (July to August)
Fewer people travel. More tickets may be available. However, bad weather may affect flights.
Who Should Use the Helicopter?
- Elderly people
- People with medical conditions
- Children and their families
- Anyone short on time
- Devotees who want to avoid the long trek
The helicopter service makes the yatra easier for all.
Final Thoughts
The Shrine Board helicopter booking system helps thousands of people every day. It gives pilgrims a fast and easy way to visit Mata Vaishno Devi. The flight is short but helpful. The booking process is simple. The service is reliable and fair.
If you plan early and follow the rules, your journey will be smooth and peaceful. The Shrine Board has made it easy for everyone to reach the holy cave. You can focus on your prayers and enjoy the blessings of Mata Rani.
