Jammu to Vaishno Devi temple helicopter service begins

JAMMU: In a bid to ease pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi temple for those with time constraints, a direct helicopter service between Jammu airport and Panchhi helipad near the shrine began on Tuesday.

The service, offering 4 flights daily, complements the existing helicopter service between the shrine base camp in Katra and Sanjhi Chhat near the temple. Unlike Sanjhi Chhat, Panchhi helipad is less affected by vagaries of weather.

"Besides providing a more comfortable mode of transportation, the new service will bolster emergency response capabilities," Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board spokesperson said.

"The first sortie from Jammu airport at 11am landed at Panchhi Helipad about 11.20am," shrine board CEO Anshul Garg said. Shrine board has partnered with two helicopter operators for two packages: same day return package at 35,000 per pilgrim, and next day return package at 60,000 per pilgrim.


Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.