The much-anticipated helicopter service for Hemkund Sahib pilgrims faced an unexpected delay on Monday, as operations could not begin despite a helicopter being stationed at Govindghat. The Pawan Hans service, which ferries devotees to Ghangharia, is awaiting final approval from the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA). Our correspondent reports that pilgrims, who had already booked tickets, were left waiting for flights that did not take off.
Pawan Hans is the only company offering helicopter services this season on the 13 km Govindghat–Ghangharia stretch. Tickets are priced at ₹10,500 for a round trip, with the service terminating at Ghangharia — the base camp for Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers. From there, devotees must travel another six kilometres on foot, or by pony and palanquin, to reach Hemkund Sahib. Our correspondent adds that while the helicopter service eases travel to the base, it does not cover the final steep ascent to the shrine.
The company had scheduled flights to commence on Monday, with bookings already made, including four tickets booked by the gurdwara management. However, due to pending permissions from UCADA, flights could not start as planned. Passengers who had booked tickets were refunded, though officials maintain that approval is expected soon.
Despite the delay, bookings continue for upcoming dates, reflecting the strong enthusiasm of devotees for the yatra. Our correspondent reports that the Hemkund Sahib Management Trust has confirmed the arrival of large groups from Punjab, including pilgrims from Patiala and Hoshiarpur, who are eager to proceed with their journey.
The weather in Hemkund Sahib remains favourable, raising hopes that flights may commence shortly once the formal clearance is granted. Our correspondent adds that the resumption of helicopter services will provide significant relief to thousands of devotees, particularly the elderly and those unable to undertake the full trek.
Authorities assured that all necessary arrangements have been made and that once permission is received, the helicopter service will start without further delay. For now, pilgrims continue to reach the base camp by road and prepare for the trek, while keeping a close watch on updates regarding the helicopter operations.
