When the Wright Brothers made their maiden voyage into the sky in 1903, they forever changed the world. It has been over a century since that first flight, and air travel has come leaps and bounds since then. Today, it is possible for one to get to their nearest airstrip or helipad and marvel at the world around them without giving everything a second thought. And if you live in India or are touring this beautiful country, then you must consider going on a helicopter ride to witness the majestic glory of this country. But the question is where to start? Well, luckily for you, here we curated a list of 10 of the most amazing helicopter ride destinations in India that you cannot afford to miss out on. So, let’s get started.
Top Helicopter Ride Destinations in India
1- Vaishno Devi Temple
- Location: Katra, Jammu & Kashmir
- Best Time to Visit: Early Summer of Post-Monsoon Seasons
Who needs any introduction to Vaishno Devi Temple? It is only one of the most revered holy sites in Northern India. But did you know you can embark on a spiritual journey here with a helicopter ride to the Vaishno Devi temple? The temple is located amidst the towering Trikuta Mountains, and the ride will allow you to marvel at the verdant valleys and the meandering streams that adorn this landscape. The aerial view will only enhance the journey to this revered Hindu shrine.
2- Kedarnath Temple
- Location: Kedarnath, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October
Next up on our list is the beautiful Kedarnath Temple. Part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra, this holy site welcomes millions of devotees every year. However, the trek up to the top of the mountain and to the Kedarnath Temple is filled with challenges. This is why many choose to take a helicopter ride to the temple. During this journey, you will fly over ancient glaciers and cascading waterfalls that showcase the raw beauty of the Himalayan Mountains to you.
3- Gir National Park
- Location: Sasan Gir, Gujarat
- Best Time to Visit: December to March, when the weather is cooler and wildlife is more visible
Now, from the north of India, let’s turn our focus to the west, specifically on the wilderness of Gir National Park. Do you know this world-famous sanctuary is home to the last remaining population of Asiatic lions in the world? And now, you can witness their habitat – from a safe distance – with a helicopter ride. As your helicopter glides over the dense forests and winding rivers, you will be able to catch glimpses of elusive wildlife that are roaming freely below.
4- The Golden Temple
- Location: Amritsar, Punjab
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
You probably have seen a beautiful picture of the Harmindar Sahib located in Amritsar if you have not visited it once already. However, you are only able to appreciate the true beauty of this temple if you take an aerial flight over it. Only when you glide over the shimmering golden domes of the Golden Temple can you truly marvel at the architectural grandeur of this holy site. From the sky, you will be able to witness the prayers and rituals performed by the devotees around the serene waters of Amrit Sarovar.
5- Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Location: Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Bay of Bengal, east of Indian mainland
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
Leaving the mainland for a bit, we are now heading towards the islands located in the southeast region of India. Located in the Bay of Bengal, these islands are full of untouched beauties that you can marvel at with a scenic helicopter ride. Your helicopter ride will allow you to witness the pristine beaches, secluded islands, vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life below, and more. The bird’s eye view of this place will unveil the archipelago’s unparalleled natural splendor.
6- The Thar Desert
- Location: Western Rajasthan
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the desert is cooler and more comfortable
From the southeast, we are moving back to the west into the vast, golden sands of the Thar Desert. This magnificent desert is home to many wondrous sites, such as ancient forts and expansive dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see, all of which you can see from high above with a helicopter ride. The aerial view will only enrich your experience, revealing the timeless allure of desert cities like Jaisalmer.
7- Amarnath
- Location: Near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
- Best Time to Visit: July to August
If you want to embark on a soul-stirring experience, then you must experience the journey to the Amarnath Cave Temple, located in Jammu & Kashmir. And the best way to take part in the journey is through a helicopter Yatra. As you soar above the rugged Himalayan terrain and witness the breathtaking beauty of snow-capped peaks and pristine glaciers, you will be transported to another realm altogether. It is not just another Helicopter Yatra; it is a journey where you can feel a profound sense of spirituality and devotion enveloping you.
8- Valley of Flowers
- Location: Near Joshimath in Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
- Best Time to Visit: July to September, when the flowers are in full bloom
For this next trip, we are staying in the Himalayas and moving towards the Valley of Flowers National Park. By opting for a Helicopter ride here, you will explore this enchanting valley from a breathtaking aerial vantage point. Imagine hovering above a vast carpet of vibrant blooms that stretch across the alpine meadows; trust us, it is a breathtaking view – a view that you cannot afford to miss out on. So, add this to your bucket list today.
9- Leh – Ladakh
- Location: Jammu & Kashmir
- Best Time to Visit: April to June
Next on this list, we are venturing into the Leh-Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir. Sure, when we talk about Ladakh, it is the bike ride with friends that comes to your mind first, but a helicopter ride here is just as equally adventurous. On your ride, you will fly over high-altitude deserts and pristine lakes, where ancient monasteries are located. This helicopter journey reveals the raw, rugged beauty and spiritual solitude of the region.
10- Taj Mahal
- Location: Agra
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, for clear, fog-free views and pleasant weather
How can we say that this list is complete if we do not talk about one of the most important sites in India? We are, of course, talking about the Taj Mahal. This enduring symbol of love invites people from all around the world to marvel at its beauty. However, do you know it looks even better from an aerial vantage point? You will be able to see every little detail of this majestic structure – its pristine marble facade, the symmetrical gardens, and even the serene Yamuna River flowing by; it is a wonderful sight.
Final Words
There you have it – ten of the most amazing helicopter rides in India for you. So, what are you waiting for? Clear your calendar and start planning your trip today!
