Helicopter service for Aerial pilgrimage to religious sites in Uttar Pradesh

• Giriraj Parikrama can be done in just seven minutes
• The operation of the helicopters will commence on 25th December
• Agra Air Safari will also be initiated

2023.12.13 (Vrindavan Today News): Marking a significant leap in religious tourism, the UP Tourism Department is set to initiate its first-ever aerial pilgrimage to religious sites. The Tourism Department of Uttar Pradesh has signed a 30- year agreement with M/s Rajas Aero Sport and Adventure Pvt. Ltd. for helicopter services encompassing Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan. The helicopters, equipped with six seats, will cater to tourists and devotees, offering a unique aerial view of popular landmarks like the Taj Mahal in Agra. Avinash Mishra, Joint Director of Tourism, stated that the service will provide three types of facilities that include pilgrimage, general tourism, and connectivity.

State Minister of Tourism, Jayveer Singh said that the occasion of December 25, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, as a probable inauguration date for this groundbreaking helicopter service, the first of its kind in the state.

Singh emphasized the significance of this venture, noting that it’s the first instance in the country where aerial circumambulation of religious sites is being introduced. Furthermore, Agra will also initiate ‘Agra Air Safari’ for foreign tourists, ensuring seamless connectivity from Delhi Airport. Luxurious amenities will be available for tourists, facilitating direct helicopter travel to Agra. Additionally, hot air balloon rides are set to commence soon. The Tourism Department’s collaboration with M/s Rajas Aero Sport and Adventure Pvt. Ltd. underlines a visionary step toward fostering tourism with a 30-year commitment, promising an enriching experience for travelers seeking spiritual and cultural exploration.

                                           Another Step for Boosting Tourism in Braj

The new heliport facility scheduled to commence in the Mathura District is set to elevate the tourism industry in Braj. Both domestic and international tourists will soon have the opportunity to experience helicopter rides in the region. The Tourism Department recently conducted a trial ride, completing it within seven minutes, indicating that a 21-kilometer circumnavigation of the Goverdhan Hill could also be covered in just seven minutes with helicopter.

D.K. Sharma, the District Tourist Officer informed that the village of Paitha, located in Goverdhan, now boasts a helipad, constructed by the PWDD (Public Works Department). Spanning across five acres, the helipad’s construction costs amounted to 4.95 crore rupees, inclusive of perimeter fencing. Sharma further disclosed that decisions regarding the number of devotees to be accommodated in each flight, the pricing, and the government’s stake in this initiative are pending at the administrative level.

Underscoring the significance of Goverdhan, Sharma emphasized that after Vrindavan and Mathura, Goverdhan draws the most pilgrims. Last year, Mathura witnessed an influx of over six crore devotees. Additionally, preparations are underway to operate steamers on the Yamuna River, connecting Mathura and Agra throughout the year, attracting both national and international tourists, thereby marking a significant move in the tourism sector. The heliport’s development and operation will be overseen by private investors under a 30-year lease agreement. Additionally, the government is also gearing up to commence steamer services in the Yamuna River, extending from Gokul to Vrindavan. Central Water Transport has already conducted a survey in this regard. This strategic augmentation in transportation facilities and the integration of helicopter services are expected to enhance the spiritual and tourism experiences in the Braj region, setting forth a new chapter in the journey of pilgrims and travellers.