Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board has launched 5 Days helicopter tours for the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra, making these challenging treks more accessible for everyone, especially senior citizens. Situated on the Indo-China border in the Pithoragarh district, this initiative aims to establish Pithoragarh as a leading pilgrimage destination in India.

“Adi Kailash is revered as the second abode of Lord Shiva after Kailash Mansarovar,” explained a senior official on condition of anonymity. “Since political and geographical constraints have suspended the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 2019, we’ve received numerous requests to make Adi Kailash more accessible. This program is a direct response to that need.”

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Organised in collaboration with Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) and Noida-based Trip to Temples, the program offers attractive packages starting from Rs 90,000 + GST, subsidised by the Uttarakhand government. The itinerary includes six helicopter journeys, exploration by all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and premium accommodation in Pithoragarh. The five-to-eight-day package, further subsidized by the Uttarakhand government, makes this adventure more affordable. The program also positions Pithoragarh as a new and exciting tourism destination on the global map.

Pilgrims will embark on aerial tours via helicopters, landing on snow-capped mountains to visit Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, Brahma Parvat, and Parvati Mukut. The five-to-eight-day yatra will operate from April 10 to May 9, 2024, and again from November 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. To further enhance accessibility, the Uttarakhand government is pursuing the establishment of thrice-weekly flights (Monday, Tuesday, Friday) between Dehradun and Pithoragarh, with arrivals and departures on the same day. Additionally, efforts are underway to increase flight connectivity from Pithoragarh to major cities like Delhi, Varanasi and Dehradun.

“Our target audience includes both young and old,” the official remarked. “Difficult terrain and logistical challenges often deter people from these incredible experiences. We aim to make the pilgrimage a comfortable and unforgettable journey for everyone across the globe.”

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While Pithoragarh town in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region has religious significance, this town also offer a treasure trove of natural beauty waiting to be explored. Its breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks pristine meadows bursting with wildflowers and lush valleys are a great attraction. It has some trek of untouched landscape too and boasts of region’s rich flora and fauna.