Ladakh has introduced helicopter services for locals and visitors who wish to explore Leh, Drass, Zanskar, Kargil, Lingshed, Dibling, Neyrak, Padum, Diskit, Turtuk, Jammu, and Srinagar. Here’s how you can hitch a ride on either of the two choppers up on offer. By Eshita Srinivas
Between the host of quaint monasteries, delicious culinary creations, and pristine lakes so picturesque they’ll take your breath away – there’s plenty to explore in Ladakh. Adding to the itinerary is a newly-introduced helicopter service. Operated by the administration of Ladakh, a five-seater B-3 chopper and a larger Mi-172 are now available for tourists and visitors, with the first batch taking off earlier this week.
Bookings for the helicopter service are regulated by the Ladakh administration
The first batch of tourists avails heli-service in Ladakh as the Administration opens the helicopter services for tourists and visitors, in general. Individuals desirous of booking on the notified routes can book the tickets online at https://t.co/SJPwroJBmm. pic.twitter.com/bmM3k4oUPS
— DIPR Leh (@DIPR_Leh) June 28, 2022
An official spokesperson was quoted in a news report by Tribune India as saying, “The first batch of tourists availed heli-service in Ladakh as the administration opens the service for tourists and visitors, in general.” While the prices for residents have been fixed by the administration and Ladakh’s civil aviation department, non-residents have a separate booking category. That said, here’s how you can book a seat:
- Visit the official website heliservice.ladakh.gov.in
- Select a date as well as the number of passengers.
- Pick your destination and check availability.
- Hit the continue booking option once you’re certain.
- Enter your contact details and other important information.
- Pay the fee for the service.
You might need to print a copy of the confirmation as well. Availability of tickets will be subject to different factors, including weather conditions, demand, and operational issues. Firstpost reports that all passengers need to have a valid photo ID with them at the time of boarding the chopper. Accommodation and meals will not be offered in the event of a cancellation. However, tickets will be fully refunded or moved to an alternate date subject to availability.
Officials also issued an advisory against travelling to high-altitude regions such as Khardungla, Changla, Pangong Lake, Tsomoriri, Penzela etc. before 48 hours have passed from the time of landing/arrival at Leh.
For more information on Ladakh’s helicopter services, head here.
All representative images: Silvia Corradin/Pexels
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