Spiritual Heights: Helicopter Yatra Opens Doors to Adi Kailash, Om Parvat

Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 2: Embarking on a groundbreaking journey to enhance religious tourism, the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) in collaboration with Noida-based Trip to Temples launched the country’s inaugural helicopter yatra to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat on Monday. This pioneering endeavour aims to broaden accessibility to these sacred sites, transcending seasonal limitations and rugged terrains, thereby inviting a wider spectrum of devotees to embark on this spiritual odyssey. UTDB has authorized Trip To Temples for accepting Yatra registration and non-heli part operations management.

Traditionally, pilgrims seeking the divine presence of Lord Shiva and Parvati at Adi Kailash or the awe-inspiring natural spectacle of Om Parvat were constrained by arduous treks and have to walk for days to reach them. In 2021, the journey was transformed into a combination of car journeys and walks after construction of few roads but despite that they were often restricted to specific months. However, with the commencement of the helicopter yatra, a transformative chapter has unfolded.

On April 1 a batch of 18 pilgrims took the maiden flight a gateway to these revered sites like never before. Byasdev Rana, one of the pilgrims said, “I am overjoyed to witness the realization of a lifelong dream through this inaugural yatra. This collaborative effort between Trip to Temples and the Uttarakhand government has made the pilgrimage to these sacred sites not only feasible for me but has also opened doors for many others grappling with time and physical constraints.” He added that for senior citizens, it is a life-time opportunity.

Nestled within the ethereal Vyas Valley, Adi Kailash stands as a sanctuary of spiritual enlightenment, while Om Parvat, resembling the sacred “Om” symbol, straddles the borders of India, Nepal and Tibet. Formerly, the closest vantage point to behold Om Parvat was Nabhidang, accessible only through demanding treks. However, Trip to Temples, in conjunction with UTDB, has revolutionized the pilgrimage landscape, enabling devotees to undertake a one-day aerial darshan of both sites, with return journeys on the same day.

Another interesting feature will be commencing from April 15, a five-day helicopter yatra with convenient departures from Pithoragarh will facilitate pilgrims’ access to these divine realms. With helicopters landing near the holy sites, the need for extensive walking is minimized, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey for devotees.

Vikas Mishra, the CEO of Trip to Temples, passionately articulated the profound significance of this transformative endeavour, stating, “Our mission goes beyond mere accessibility; it’s about fostering a spiritual connection that transcends physical boundaries. By orchestrating this unparalleled pilgrimage experience, we are not only providing a seamless journey to sacred sites but also weaving threads of spiritual enrichment into the fabric of our devotees’ lives. This initiative stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to honouring our heritage, uplifting communities and facilitating transformative experiences that resonate with the soul. Through our collective efforts, we aim to redefine the pilgrimage narrative, ensuring that every seeker, regardless of constraints, can embark on a transcendent journey of self-discovery and divine connection.”

The forthcoming winter session of the yatra is set to be a pioneering venture, offering mesmerizing vistas of the snow-clad Vyas Valley, Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. Helicopter sorties and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) will supplant the strenuous trek from Jyolingkong and Nabhidang, ensuring a comfortable traverse through the snowy expanse during winter season too.

(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).