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If you are planning to visit Mata Vaishno Devi next month, there is some exciting news for you. From June End, devotees will have the opportunity to book a helicopter directly from Jammu to Katra. This service is a significant relief for those who find it difficult to walk to the shrine due to time constraints or health issues.
Launch of the New Helicopter Service
The eagerly awaited direct helicopter service from Jammu to the holy cave shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, located amid the Trikuta hills of Katra, is expected to be launched from June 25 or 26. According to officials, the service was initially supposed to start earlier, but due to some operational readiness issues, it got delayed. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board's Chief Executive Officer, Anshul Garg, confirmed the new expected launch dates.
Packages for Pilgrims
The Shrine Board has introduced two packages for pilgrims who want to use this facility:
1. Same Day Return Package: This package costs ₹35,000 per pilgrim. It includes:
- To-and-fro helicopter service from Jammu to the cave shrine.
- Transport facility from Panchi helipad to the holy cave shrine and back.
- Priority Darshans.
- A free meal at Bhawan.
- Ropeway ticket to Bhairon Ghati temple.
- A box of Panchmeva Prasad.
2. Next Day Return Package: This package costs ₹60,000 per pilgrim and includes:
- To-and-fro helicopter service from Jammu to the cave shrine.
- Transport facility from Panchi helipad to the holy cave shrine and back.
- Priority Darshans.
- Accommodation for an overnight stay and three meals at Bhawan.
- Shradha Suman Vishesh Pooja Arti.
- Ropeway ticket to Bhairon Ghati temple.
- A box of Panchmeva Prasad.
Existing Chopper Service
Currently, pilgrims can opt for chopper service from Katra to Sanji Chhat through two operators at a charge of ₹2,100 for one-way trips and ₹4,200 for round trips. The introduction of the new service from Jammu directly to the cave shrine aims to provide a more convenient and streamlined option for devotees.
Positive Response Expected
The CEO of the Shrine Board is hopeful that the new service will receive a positive response from pilgrims. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, attracting millions of devotees each year. From January to May this year alone, over 40.3 lakh pilgrims have visited the cave shrine.
Enhancing Pilgrimage Experience
The decision to introduce the direct helicopter service from Jammu to the cave shrine is part of the Shrine Board's ongoing efforts to streamline the pilgrimage and provide better facilities to the pilgrims. This service not only saves time but also offers a more comfortable journey for those who might struggle with the trek due to health issues or time constraints.
Comparing Costs and Benefits
Traveling from Jammu to Katra can be done in various ways, each with its own merits and demerits:
1. Bus Fare: The bus ticket cost ranges from ₹70 to ₹1,500, depending on the service provider and class of travel.
2. Hiring a Horse or Pony: Rates for hiring ponies are fixed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board:
- Katra to Bhawan: ₹500-₹1,000
- Katra to Sanjichhat: ₹400-₹500
- Bhawan to Katra via Bhairon: ₹600-₹650
- Bhawan to Sanjichhat or Bhairon: ₹200-₹250
While the cost of the helicopter is significantly higher, it greatly reduces travel time and effort. If you have more time and prefer a more traditional pilgrimage experience, walking or hiring a pony could be a more economical option.
The introduction of the direct helicopter service from Jammu to Katra is a welcome addition for many devotees. It provides a faster and more convenient travel option, especially for those with limited time or health constraints. Whether you choose the new helicopter service or stick to the traditional methods, the pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi remains a deeply spiritual and rewarding journey.
