Rudraprayag, September 15, 2024(Kedarnath pilgrimage 2024): Starting today, a total of eight helicopter companies will operate flights to the Kedarnath Dham, offering a significant boost to the ease and speed of the pilgrimage. So far, more than 70,000 devotees have availed themselves of the helicopter service, allowing them to complete their journey to the sacred shrine with greater convenience. The addition of new helicopters will further facilitate a smoother pilgrimage experience for travelers.
Previously, only two companies were operating flights from Guptkashi and Sirsi. However, starting today, six additional helicopter companies will join the operation, providing flights from Guptkashi, Mehkanda, Jamu, and Sirsi. This increase in the number of available flights is expected to significantly enhance the capacity and reduce waiting times for pilgrims.
According to Rahul Chaubey, the Nodal Officer for the Kedarnath Helicopter Service and District Tourism and Adventure Sports Officer, helicopters from Thambi, Pawan Hans, Crystal, Aero, Global Vectra, and Aryan companies have arrived in the Kedar Valley to begin operations. These companies had suspended their flights after completing the first phase of the yatra on July 3 and resumed services following the end of the monsoon season.
Even during the monsoon, Himalayan Heli and Trans Bharat companies continued to operate, ensuring that the pilgrimage remained accessible. Since the opening of Kedarnath’s portals on May 10, over 70,000 devotees have used the helicopter service to reach the temple. Additionally, more than 69,000 pilgrims have completed their darshan and safely returned.
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With the availability of more helicopter services, the Kedarnath yatra is expected to gain momentum, making the pilgrimage easier and more accessible to a larger number of devotees.
Kedarnath pilgrimage 2024:Key Highlights of Kedarnath Helicopter Service
- Increased Helicopter Flights: Eight companies now operating flights to Kedarnath.
- Convenience for Pilgrims: Over 70,000 pilgrims have benefited from the helicopter service since May.
- Monsoon Operations: Two companies continued flights during the monsoon, ensuring uninterrupted access.
- Kedarnath Yatra Boost: Additional flights will reduce waiting times and enhance the travel experience.
With the renewed operations, the Kedarnath pilgrimage is set to progress more smoothly, offering a convenient option for those seeking to visit the holy shrine.
Kedarnath pilgrimage 2024:About Kedarnath
Kedarnath, nestled in the lap of the majestic Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Hindus. It is home to the famous Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it a highly significant religious destination. Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering not only spiritual solace but also breathtaking natural beauty.
The Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era and was later renovated by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Pilgrims from all over the world embark on the challenging Kedarnath Yatra to seek blessings from Lord Shiva and to experience the serene and sacred atmosphere of the region. The temple remains open for devotees from April to November due to extreme winter conditions during the rest of the year.
Kedarnath is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra, along with Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, making it a vital stop for spiritual seekers. With its rich history and divine significance, Kedarnath continues to attract thousands of pilgrims every year.
With the renewed operations, the Kedarnath pilgrimage 2024 is set to progress more smoothly, offering a convenient option for those seeking to visit the holy shrine.
