Vaishno Devi Helicopter Booking 2026 | Online Ticket Price, Process & Tips

Last Updated: February 2026

Planning a trip to Mata Vaishno Devi and wondering about the helicopter service from Katra to Sanjichhat? The helicopter ride is a blessing, especially for senior citizens, families with young children, and those who may find the 13 km uphill trek physically demanding. In this guide, I have covered everything you need to know about the Vaishno Devi helicopter booking process, current ticket prices for 2026, cancellation policy, required documents, and practical tips to make your yatra smooth.

What Is the Vaishno Devi Helicopter Service and How Does It Work?

The Vaishno Devi helicopter service operates on the Katra to Sanjichhat route, managed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB). The helicopter takes you from the Katra helipad (located on Udhampur Road, about 2 km from Katra Bus Stand) to the Sanjichhat helipad in just 8 minutes. From Sanjichhat, it is a gentle walk of about 2.5 km to reach Vaishno Devi Bhawan. The gradient is easy, and most people cover this distance in about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

The service is operated by Himalayan Heli Services and Global Vectra Helicorp, both authorized by SMVDSB. Each helicopter carries 5 to 6 passengers per flight. Flights operate every 20 minutes from both Katra and Sanjichhat, starting at 8:00 AM and the last ride departs at approximately 5:00 PM (timings may vary by season).

I believe this service is a genuine blessing. It opens up the opportunity for elderly parents, physically challenged devotees, and families with small children to complete the darshan without the strenuous trek. When my parents were planning their visit, this was the option that gave us confidence that they could manage the yatra comfortably.

How Much Does the Vaishno Devi Helicopter Ticket Cost in 2026?

As of 2026, the official helicopter fare for Vaishno Devi, as notified by SMVDSB, is as follows:

Keep in mind that the fare is the same for adults, senior citizens, and children above 2 years. Children below 2 years of age travel free, provided they sit in the lap of a parent or guardian. In case of any dispute regarding the child’s age, you may be asked to present the child’s birth certificate, so do carry it with you.

The above fares include GST. However, applicable taxes at the Katra or Sanjichhat boarding point may be collected separately. These rates are officially regulated by SMVDSB and are the same whether you book online or at the counter.

How to Book Vaishno Devi Helicopter Tickets Online?

The online booking process for Vaishno Devi helicopter tickets is straightforward. You can book through the official SMVDSB website at www.maavaishnodevi.org. Here is the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Register on the Official SMVDSB Website

Visit www.maavaishnodevi.org and click on ‘New User Registration’. Provide your details including name, mobile number, and email. You will receive an OTP on your mobile for verification. Only one registration is allowed per IP address, so if you face issues, try switching to your mobile data network. This is a common problem that many people face, and using your phone’s mobile hotspot usually works.

Step 2: Select Flight Date, Route, and Check Availability

After logging in, select your preferred date of travel, the route (Katra to Sanjichhat or return), and the number of passengers. Check the availability for your chosen date. Keep in mind that bookings open 60 days in advance at 10:00 AM daily, and the minimum advance booking is 4 days before the date of journey. During peak seasons like Navratri, slots get filled within minutes, so I suggest you be ready at 10 AM sharp.

Dheeraj Sharma

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Step 3: Enter Passenger Details Carefully

Fill in the details for each passenger. Double-check everything before submitting because once submitted, the details cannot be changed. Many people make mistakes at this step, so I recommend you verify all names and ID numbers twice. One user can book a maximum of 5 helicopter tickets from one credit/debit card in a month.

Step 4: Make the Payment

Enter your credit card or debit card details and complete the payment. UPI payment options may also be available on the official portal. On successful payment, take a printout of the Electronic Reservation Slip (ERS) and note down the Transaction ID. The transaction will appear in your ‘Successful Transaction History’ on the homepage.

Step 5: Check Transaction Status and Save Your ERS

If you face any technical issue during payment, check the transaction status on the website:

• Successful transaction: Take the printout using the re-print option. No further action needed.
• Failed transaction: Retry with a new reservation. If the amount was deducted, email online@maavaishnodevi.org with your Tracking ID, Trace number, User ID, and transaction date for a refund.
• Important: Refund requests must be sent within 30 days of the travel date, otherwise no refund will be issued.

If you cannot take a printout of the ERS, email online@maavaishnodevi.org within 48 hours of the transaction date for assistance.

Can You Buy Vaishno Devi Helicopter Tickets at the Counter?

Yes, you can purchase current helicopter tickets from the ticket counter at Katra. However, you need a valid Yatra Registration Slip (Parchi) and photo ID proof for yourself and all members of your group. The Yatra Parchi is now free of cost (earlier it was Rs 50) and about 15,000 parchies are open for booking every day.

A word of caution here. You may encounter touts or agents near Katra who try to sell helicopter tickets at inflated prices. DO NOT purchase tickets from any agent. SMVDSB has not authorized any travel agent to sell helicopter tickets. The only official channels are the SMVDSB website and the official counter at Katra. Hence, do not pay any extra charges to anyone claiming to arrange helicopter tickets for you.

What Documents Do You Need for the Helicopter Ride?

You must carry the following documents when reporting for your helicopter flight:

1. Original Photo ID Proof for every passenger. Accepted IDs include: Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID, PAN Card, or any Credit Card with Photo.
2. Original Credit/Debit Card used for the online booking. In the absence of the original card, boarding will be denied without any refund.
3. Printout of the Electronic Reservation Slip (ERS) or the digital copy on your phone.
4. Yatra Registration Slip (Parchi), which is mandatory for all pilgrims.

Keep in mind: If you do not carry the original credit/debit card or valid photo ID, you will be denied boarding and no refund will be issued. I have seen this happen to fellow pilgrims, so please do not take this lightly.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Vaishno Devi Helicopter Tickets?

The cancellation policy as per SMVDSB is as follows:

• Online bookings can be canceled through the official website only. Cancellations over the counter or by phone are not accepted.
• You will receive a 70% refund of the fare. The remaining 30% is deducted as processing charges.
• Cancellations must be done at least 4 days in advance of the scheduled travel date.
• The refund amount is credited back to the same account used for the original payment.
• In case of weather-related or technical cancellations by the operator, a 100% refund is issued. In such cases, pilgrims should submit their helicopter ticket to the respective operator at the helipad.

What Is the Baggage Allowance on Vaishno Devi Helicopters?

The baggage allowance on Vaishno Devi helicopter services is limited. Each passenger is allowed to carry one small hand bag (up to 5 kg). Heavy luggage, large suitcases, and trolley bags are not permitted on board. I suggest you leave your heavy luggage at your hotel in Katra and carry only essentials like your ID documents, a small water bottle, and a light jacket. Weight and balance limits are strictly enforced for flight safety.

How to Reach Katra for Your Vaishno Devi Yatra?

Katra is well-connected to major cities across North India. Here are the main ways to reach Katra:

By Train

Katra has its own railway station, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK). The Vande Bharat Express from Delhi to Katra takes about 8 hours and is the fastest option. Several overnight trains also connect Delhi and other North Indian cities to Jammu Tawi, from where Katra is about 50 km (roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by road). Shared taxis and buses ply frequently between Jammu and Katra.

By Bus

Regular bus services operate from Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu, and other North Indian cities to Katra via NH44. The journey from Delhi takes approximately 11 to 12 hours. From Jammu, ordinary and deluxe buses run every 10 to 15 minutes and the fare is quite affordable.

By Air

The nearest airport is Jammu Airport (IXJ), about 50 km from Katra. Direct flights are available from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Katra.

Practical Tips for Your Vaishno Devi Helicopter Yatra

Based on experiences shared by DwD community members who have done this yatra, here are some practical tips:

1. Book early during Navratri season. Helicopter slots fill up within minutes during Chaitra and Sharad Navratri. Be ready at the website at 10:00 AM when bookings open, 60 days in advance.
2. Reach the helipad at least 1 hour before your flight. If you arrive late, you may be marked as NO SHOW and no refund will be issued.
3. Keep your luggage minimal. Leave heavy bags at your Katra hotel. You only need ID, some cash, a light jacket, and water.
4. Book the return helicopter ticket as well. The walk from Bhawan back to Katra is 13 km downhill, which can be tiring after the darshan. Having a return ticket saves energy, especially for elderly family members.
5. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Even with the helicopter, you need to walk 2.5 km from Sanjichhat helipad to Bhawan. The path is paved but involves some steps.
6. Carry the original credit/debit card. This is non-negotiable for boarding. Many pilgrims forget this and face problems.
7. Check weather conditions before travel. Helicopter services are subject to weather and visibility. During heavy rain or fog, flights may be canceled with a full refund.
8. Get your Yatra Parchi in advance. You can register for the Yatra Parchi online through the SMVDSB website for free. About 15,000 slots are available daily.

Important Warning: Beware of Fake Websites and Touts

Please note that www.maavaishnodevi.org is the only official website of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB). Do not use any other website for purchasing helicopter tickets. Several fake websites exist that charge higher prices or collect your payment without issuing valid tickets. SMVDSB has not authorized any travel agent to sell helicopter tickets. Hence, do not pay any extra amount to agents, touts, or unauthorized websites. If you encounter any fraud, you can report it to feedback@maavaishnodevi.org.

How Does the Online Permit System Compare to Other Indian Pilgrimages?

I am really happy to see how online services by various government departments are getting better every passing year. The SMVDSB has done a commendable job of making the helicopter booking process smooth and transparent. Similar examples of excellent digitization include the Rohtang Pass permit mobile app by Kullu Administration and the completely online Ladakh Inner Line Permit process by Leh Administration, both of which help thousands of tourists every year. Even the Char Dham Yatra registration in Uttarakhand and the Kedarnath helicopter booking have moved to online systems, making it much easier for devotees to plan their pilgrimages.

Dheeraj Sharma

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Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are required for Vaishno Devi helicopter tickets?

You need to carry the original credit or debit card used for booking, a valid photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID, or PAN Card), and the printout of the Electronic Reservation Slip (ERS). Without these documents, boarding will be denied and no refund is issued.

How long does the Vaishno Devi helicopter ride take from Katra to Sanjichhat?

The helicopter ride from Katra to Sanjichhat takes approximately 8 minutes. The return flight from Sanjichhat to Katra also takes the same time. From the Sanjichhat helipad, it is a 2.5 km walk to reach Vaishno Devi Bhawan.

Do children need a separate helicopter ticket for Vaishno Devi?

Children below 2 years of age travel free, provided they sit in the lap of a parent or guardian. Children above 2 years need a full-price ticket at Rs 2,320 one way or Rs 4,640 return (as of 2026). Carry the child’s birth certificate to avoid any dispute at the counter.

When should I reach the helipad to board my Vaishno Devi helicopter flight?

You should reach the helipad at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure time. Late arrivals may be marked as NO SHOW, and no refund is issued in such cases. The Katra helipad is located on Udhampur Road, about 2 km from Katra Bus Stand.

How far is Vaishno Devi Bhawan from the Sanjichhat helipad?

Vaishno Devi Bhawan is about 2.5 km from the Sanjichhat helipad. The walk is on a paved path with a gentle gradient. Most people reach Bhawan in 45 minutes to 1 hour from the helipad. Pony and palki (palanquin) services are also available on this stretch.

Can Vaishno Devi helicopter flights be canceled due to weather?

Yes, helicopter flights are subject to weather, visibility, and flying conditions. During heavy rain, fog, or strong winds, flights may be canceled for safety reasons. In such cases, SMVDSB issues a 100% refund to all affected passengers.

Is there a weight limit for passengers on the Vaishno Devi helicopter?

Yes, weight and balance limits are strictly enforced for flight safety. Each passenger is allowed one small hand bag (up to 5 kg). Heavy luggage and large bags are not permitted. Passenger weight is also checked, and overloading is prohibited as per aviation safety norms.

Where can I send complaints about the Vaishno Devi helicopter service?

You can email your complaints or suggestions to feedback@maavaishnodevi.org. You can also send a written complaint by post to: Deputy Chief Executive Officer, In-Charge Operations Wing, Office of the Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Katra, District Reasi, J&K, PIN 182301.

Conclusion

The Vaishno Devi helicopter service has truly made the holy yatra accessible to a wider group of devotees. Whether you are planning for your elderly parents, a family trip with young children, or simply want to save time and energy, the helicopter ride from Katra to Sanjichhat is a practical and well-managed option. Just make sure you book through the official SMVDSB website, carry all required documents, and reach the helipad well in time.

I hope this guide helps you plan your Vaishno Devi yatra smoothly. If you have any questions or want to share your own experience with the helicopter service, feel free to post in the comments section below. You can also check the DwD Community for discussions and travel partner searches. If you know someone planning their Vaishno Devi yatra, do share this article with them 🙂 …

Jai Mata Di !!