Day 1: Arrival in Dehradun Gateway to the Divine

Dehradun: approx. 2,200 ft (670 meters)

• Arrive at Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, the serene foothill city and starting point of your Char Dham Yatra by helicopter.
• You will be received by your designated driver at Jolly Grant Airport for a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel in an Innova Crysta or similar premium vehicle.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the city as you head towards your Hotel at Dehradun.
• Note: Hotel check-in is as per standard policy, post 3:00 PM. Early arrivals may relax in the hotel lounge or explore nearby cafés/attractions while luggage is securely handled by the hotel team.
• Upon check-in, settle into your wellappointed room and take some time to rest and rejuvenate.
• Your hotel stay in Dehradun promises modern comforts, peaceful surroundings, and elegant hospitality, setting the tone for the spiritual journey ahead.
• Receive a duffle bag and exclusive goodies curated specially for our esteemed Char Dham guests—a heartfelt token of gratitude and preparation for your upcoming spiritual sojourn.
• Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at the hotel’s in-house restaurant.
• Retire early for a peaceful night’s rest, as you prepare for the divine adventure that begins the following day.

Day 2: Yamunotri – The Seat of Goddess Yamuna

• Arrive at Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, the serene foothill city and starting point of your Char Dham Yatra by helicopter.
• You will be received by your designated driver at Jolly Grant Airport for a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel in an Innova Crysta or similarm premium vehicle.
• Guests scheduled for the first departure slot or departing before regular breakfast hours will receive a thoughtfully packed breakfast.
• Guests scheduled for later departures will enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel restaurant in Dehradun, subject to the final curated schedule by Thumby Aviation.
• Transfer from hotel to Sahastradhara Helipad, Dehradun.
• Helicopter ride to Kharsali Helipad (approx. 30–35 mins), with breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan ranges.
• Arrival at Kharsali, where your luggage will be directly transported to the hotel for a seamless check-in experience.
• Begin your journey from Kharsali with a 1.5 km palki ride to Jankichatti – the starting point of the 6.5 km trek to Yamunotri Temple.
• This route, known as the Janki Path, named after Goddess Sita (Janki), winds through rustic mountain villages, scenic Himalayan terrain and Devdar trees which translates to “timber of the gods” or “tree of the gods” in Sanskrit. These trees are also known as
  the Himalayan Cedar.

En Route Spiritual Highlights

1. Surya Kund

• • A natural hot water spring near the temple.
  • Devotees cook rice or potatoes wrapped in cloth, later offered as prasad.

2. Divya Shila

• • A sacred stone slab just before the temple.
  • Worshipped before entering the Yamunotri shrine. Believed to hold divine energy.

Yamunotri Temple Darshan

• The Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is one of the four sacred Char Dhams.
• Perched at an altitude of 10,804 ft (3,293 meters) in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple is the spiritual source of the Yamuna River, though the actual glacier source lies further uphill at Champasar Glacier.
• Darshan here is said to absolve sins and offer protection from untimely death.
• Bask in the tranquil ambiance, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the whispers of Himalayan winds-a profound moment of divine connection.

Post Darshan

• Return trek to Jankichatti, followed by palki back to Kharsali.
• Upon arrival, enjoy a refreshing Hi-Tea at the hotel.
• Later, relish a sumptuous dinner and unwind with overnight stay in Kharsali.

Other Places of Interest in the Yamunotri Sector

• Kharsali Village
  A charming Himalayan hamlet with traditional wooden homes, surrounded by natural beauty and known for its warm local hospitality.
• Prachin Shani Dev Temple
  Located near the Kharsali helipad, this ancient shrine is dedicated to Lord Shani, considered the brother of Goddess Yamuna.
  Worshipping here is believed to offer protection and balance.
• Hanuman Chatti
  Approximately 14 km before Jankichatti, at the confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers.
  Once the traditional starting point for the Yamunotri trek (18-20 km), it’s now a scenic and spiritual stop, accessible by vehicle.
  According to legend, this is where Lord Hanuman met Bhima during he Mahabharata, adding mythological depth to your pilgrimage.

Day 3: Gangotri – The Sacred Origin of the Ganges

Enjoy the mesmerizing helicopter ride from Kharsali to Jhala Helipad, nestled in the upper Himalayan valley and serving as the aerial gateway to the revered Gangotri Dham.

Upon arrival at Jhala Helipad (approx. 8,530 feet), you will be driven by road for approximately 25 km to Gangotri Temple. The journey unfolds through one of Uttarakhand’s  most scenic and soul-stirring routes, offering a blend of spirituality and untouched Himalayan beauty.

Your luggage will be safely managed while you embark on this road journey, allowing you to fully absorb the sights and serenity of the Himalayan surroundings.

En Route Spiritual & Scenic Highlights (Jhala → Gangotri Temple):

• Bagodi Village:
  A tranquil Himalayan hamlet offering a glimpse into the authentic Garhwali lifestyle. The village is framed by apple orchards and rustic stone homes, echoing the charm of simpler, sacred mountain existence.
• Jalandhari Waterfalls:
  A serene natural cascade just off the road-ideal for a short pause and photo opportunity amid peaceful, forested surroundings.
• Bhagirathi River Viewpoints:
  As the route meanders through the mountains, multiple curve-points provide dramatic and awe-inspiring views of the Bhagirathi River, considered the earthly form of the sacred Ganga. The river’s vibrant force and clarity symbolize purity and spiritual energy.
• Prachin Bhairav Mandir:
  A centuries-old temple dedicated to Lord Bhairav, guardian deity of the region. Pilgrims traditionally pause here to offer prayers before visiting Gangotri, seeking divine protection and blessings for their onward journey.

GANGOTRI TEMPLE DARSHAN:

Reach the sacred Gangotri Temple, nestled at an elevation of 10,200 feet (approx. 3,100 meters). This revered shrine marks the spiritual origin of the holy River Ganga, where it is believed she descended to Earth following King Bhagirath’s penance to liberate his ancestors.

Set against a dramatic backdrop of towering peaks and dense Himalayan forests, the temple exudes tranquillity and sanctity. Devotees are enveloped in the rhythmic chants of mantras, temple bells, and the mystical roar of the nearby river.

Participate in the darshan and absorb the divine vibrations of this celestial location, where spirituality and nature blend in perfect harmony.

SPECIAL NOTE – GAUMUKН (SOURCE OF THE GANGA):

Though the Ganga begins her sacred journey at Gangotri, her actual glacial origin lies 18 km further uphill at Gaumukh-a revered site shaped like a cow’s mouth (gau-mukh). Accessible only by a highaltitude trek with a valid forest permit, Gaumukh is not included in the helicopter itinerary but holds immense spiritual significance. Pilgrims regard it as the true source of the holy river and a place of deep cosmic energy.

Return to the Hotel:

Following your darshan and exploration, return to Jhala by road and onward to your hotel. A warm welcome, a comforting dinner, and a restful night await you.

Let the divine essence of the Ganga and the grandeur of the Garhwal Himalayas resonate within you as you rest and prepare for the next sacred destination on your Char Dham Yatra.

Day 4: Kedarnath – The Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva 

Begin this profoundly spiritual day with preparations for a visit to one of the most revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva-Kedarnath, nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas.

Your day commences with a drive to Harsil Helipad, from where you will board a helicopter to Phata. At Phata, a short yet breathtaking shuttle flight to Kedarnath Helipad awaits. This shuttle system operates under allocated time slots assigned by UCADA (Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority), ensuring organized and safe pilgrim movement to this high-altitude shrine.

Arrival at Kedarnath Helipad (11,500 ft approx.):

As you step out of the chopper, you are instantly embraced by the crisp, high-altitude air and the overwhelming spiritual energy of Kedarnath Valley.

From the helipad, it’s a 700-meter walk to the main temple. The path is well-paved, gently inclined, and generally manageable, even for elderly devotees. For those requiring support, pittu/porter services are available directly on-site at an additional cost, offered by local service providers.

KEDARNATH TEMPLE DARSHAN:

On arrival, you are guided directly for a VIP Darshan at the sacred Kedarnath Temple, perched at an elevation of 11,755 feet (3,583 meters). Surrounded by towering snow-laden peaks and the serene flow of the Mandakini River, the temple is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.

You will enter through the temple’s outer courtyard and thanks to VIP arrangements, pass through a brief and seamless queue. A short flight of 8-10 wide stone steps lead into the mandap (prayer hall) and finally into the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum), where the irregular-shaped Shivalinga radiates powerful divine presence.

The air here is filled with devotion, the rhythmic chants and temple bells creating a spiritually charged atmosphere that leaves a lasting impact on every pilgrim’s heart.

Key Spiritual Landmarks Around the Temple:

Once you complete your darshan inside the temple, take a few moments to explore the spiritually charged surroundings, each holding its own significance:

• Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi (Approx. 10 minutes):
  Located just behind the main temple, this stone memorial marks the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, the great saint-philosopher who revitalized Kedarnath as a sacred pilgrimage hub over 1,200 years ago.
• Bhimshila (Approx. 5 minutes):
  Close to the samadhi stands the Bhimshila, a massive boulder that miraculously rolled down during the catastrophic 2013 floods and stopped just behind the temple, shielding it from destruction. It is revered today as a symbol of divine protection and intervention.
• Mandakini River Banks:
  The Mandakini River, with its clear glacial waters, flows gracefully beside the temple. Take a few moments to sit along its banks, offering a prayer, or simply absorbing the profound peace and spiritual energy that permeates the valley.

Bhairavnath Temple (Optional Trek – 15 to 20 minutes):

• For those yearning for a deeper spiritual connection and a short trek, a 15–20-minute uphill hike leads to the Bhairavnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Bhairav, the fierce protector deity of Kedarnath. It is believed that during the temple’s winter closure, Bhairavnath watches over the sacred grounds.
• The trek, though moderately steep, rewards devotees with panoramic views of the Kedarnath shrine and surrounding snow-covered peaks, adding both spiritual and visual grandeur to the journey.
• After soaking in the divine ambiance and completing your exploration, retrace your path to the helipad for your return shuttle to Phata, followed by your flight back to Harsil and onward transfer to your hotel.
• Conclude the day with heartfelt gratitude, carrying the blessings of Lord Shiva and the eternal tranquillity of the Kedarnath Dham in your soul, as you prepare for the final and equally sacred destination-Badrinath.

Day 5: Badrinath – The Celestial Abode of Lord Vishnu

Today marks the final leg of your sacred Char Dham Yatra as you journey to the divine seat of Lord Vishnu-Badrinath, one of the holiest shrines in the Vaishnavite tradition.

Begin your morning with a helicopter transfer from Phata Helipad to Badrinath Helipad. The 30-minute flight (subject to weather conditions) offers breathtaking views of the snowcapped Himalayan ranges, winding rivers, and lush alpine valleys.

Arrival at Badrinath Helipad:
Upon landing, proceed by vehicle to Badrinath Temple, which is located just 1 km away, with a travel time of approximately minutes. From the vehicle drop-off point, a brief 150-200 meter walk brings you to the temple entrance.

Badrinath Temple Darshan:
Enter the revered Badrinath Temple, a sanctum of spiritual calm and divine energy. The approach includes approximately 25 broad stone steps, which are slightly steep but manageable for most devotees.

Once inside, step into the spacious courtyard, leading you into the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum) that houses the black stone idol of Lord Badri Narayan, seated in a meditative pose. As one of the 108 Divya Desams, and the northernmost of the Char Dhams, the temple holds immense importance in Vaishnavism. The serene Alaknanda River flows nearby, and the majestic Neelkanth Peak provides a celestial backdrop creating an atmosphere of tranquility and divine power.

AFTER DARSHAN

Explore Surrounding Sacred Sites:
Once you’ve offered your prayers at the temple, continue your spiritual experience by visiting these revered sites nearby:

1. ТАРT KUND & NARAD KUND

• • Location: At the base of the temple steps.
  • Tapt Kund: A natural hot water spring where pilgrims traditionally take a purifying dip before entering the temple.
  • Narad Kund: Another sacred hot spring, believed to be where the idol of Badrinath was originally discovered.

2. BRAHМА КАРAL (APPROX. 5–7 MIN WALK NORTH ALONG THE RIVERBANK)

Once you’ve offered your prayers at the temple, continue your spiritual experience by visiting these revered sites nearby:

3. SHESHNETRA (APPROХ. 1.5 KM – 5–10 MIN DRIVE OR 20-MIN WALK ONE WAY)

Once you’ve offered your prayers at the temple, continue your spiritual experience by visiting these revered sites nearby:

4. CHARAN PADUKА (OPTIONAL – FOR FIT PILGRIMS)

• • A steep uphill trek of about 3 km (roundtrip).
  • This site features a sacred rock bearing Lord Vishnu’s footprint, believed to mark the first point where He descended from Vaikuntha.
  • Best attempted if time, weather, and health permit.

Vyas Gufa & Ganesh Gufa – Sacred Literary Caves

• Location: Mana Village (3.5 km / 10-minute drive from Badrinath Temple).
• Vyas Gufa: The legendary cave where Sage Vyasa composed the Mahabharata.
• Ganesh Gufa: Nearby cave where Lord Ganesha transcribed the epic as dictated by Vyasa.
• These caves are accessible via a short drive and are located near the end of the motorable road in Mana.

Mana Village Excursion – India’s Last Village Before Tibet

Mana, the final village before the Indo-Tibetan border, is steeped in mythology, tradition, and natural beauty. Once you arrive by vehicle, all sites are within walkable distance. Explore the following in sequence:

1. Bheem Pul

• A natural stone bridge over the fierce Saraswati River, said to have been placed by Bheem for Draupadi to cross during their final journey to heaven (Mahaprasthan).
• A visually stunning and spiritually charged site-perfect for photos and contemplation.

2. Saraswati Temple

• A small shrine dedicated to the elusive Goddess Saraswati, located near the river’s visible origin point.

3. Draupadi Temple

• A modest temple honouring Draupadi, associated with her sacred journey towards heavenly ascension along with the Pandavas.

4. Keshav Prayag

• The sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Saraswati Rivers.
• Considered highly auspicious, symbolizing the merging of knowledge and devotion.

Return and Refresh:

Following this spiritually enriching day, return to your hotel/lodge in Badrinath. The majestic Himalayas continue to embrace you in their sacred serenity. Take time to rest, reflect, and offer silent gratitude for completing this blessed pilgrimage through the celestial corridors of the Char Dham.

Day 6: Return to Dehradun Completion of a Sacred Journey

As your soul-stirring Char Dham Yatra draws to a close, begin your morning with a mesmerizing helicopter ride from Badrinath to Dehradun. This final aerial journeyapproximately one hour-offers awe-inspiring views of the towering Himalayas, gently bidding you farewell with their majestic grace.

Upon arrival in Dehradun, proceed to your hotel’s cloakroom to collect your stored luggage, ensuring a smooth and effortless transition from the skies back to the plains. You will then be transferred directly to Dehradun Airport or Railway Station, where your spiritual odyssey concludes.

Take a quiet moment to reflect-Yamunotri serenity, Gangotri’s purity, Kedarnath’s divine presence, and Badrinath’s celestial calm—each Dham has now become part of your inner journey, a sacred imprint on your soul.

Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter A Journey Like No Other

This curated pilgrimage seamlessly blends comfort, devotion, and discovery. From VIP Darshans and soulful mountain landscapes to private helicopter transfers, every detail has been designed to elevate your experience—both spiritually and logistically.

Whether it’s the quiet power of a prayer whispered by a riverbank or the breathtaking sight of snow-clad peaks from above, each moment of this yatra leaves behind a lasting impression of peace, humility, and divine grace.

Important Note on Contingencies & Extra Days

While this itinerary is designed to complete the Char Dham Yatra in 5 nights and 6 days, we strongly recommend that all pilgrims plan for 2 to 3 additional buffer days beyond the scheduled duration. Being a highaltitude region, the Himalayan belt is often subject to weather disruptions and unforeseen delays, particularly concerning helicopter operations.

In the event that you complete the yatra as planned and have extra days in hand, consider extending your spiritual and leisure experience with nearby getaways:

• Haridwar – Attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a deeply moving ritual of light and devotion.
• Rishikesh – Explore yoga ashrams, serene ghats, and the spiritual energy that flows with the Ganga.
• Mussoorie – A picturesque hill station with colonial charm, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Dehradun – Visit hidden cafes, forest trails, and vibrant local markets.
• These additional destinations offer a chance to unwind, reconnect, and conclude your pilgrimage on a gentle, enriching note.