Imagine the sheer wonder of soaring in a helicopter, embracing the breathtaking view while flying over the majestic Kanchenjunga peaks. Just Awesome! While this experience is well known to the travellers to Nepal as Mountain flights have long been a popular and sought-after activity in it’s capital, Kathmandu, offering enthusiasts breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks.
Surprisingly, in India, a hidden gem remains largely undiscovered – Sikkim, a destination that not only boasts stunning helicopter tours but also promises an unparalleled experience soaring over the iconic Mount Kanchenjunga, gracing the landscapes of this majestic Himalayan state.
As Sikkim prepares to welcome tourists once more after the devastating flood during this year’s peak tourist season in Durga Puja, and secures its place as a top destination in Asia by the National Geographic Travel magazine, it’s an opportune moment to explore one of its most captivating yet relatively concealed tourist attraction: the Helicopter Tours of Sikkim.
Let’s explore the captivating world of Heli Tours in Sikkim, where adventure meets the awe-inspiring beauty of Kanchenjunga.
First we will explore the relatively popular, daily helicopter services between Gangtok and Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, featuring a swift 35-minute journey each way. Departing daily at 11:00 AM from Gangtok to Bagdogra and at 2:30 PM from Bagdogra to Gangtok, these flights offer convenient timings for travelers and priced at Rs. 3,500 per person. The journey offers a picturesque view, showcasing the lush valleys, winding rivers, and the majestic Himalayan vistas of Sikkim, providing an unforgettable visual experience.
Apart from the visual experience, as Bagdogra Airport serves as the primary gateway to various destinations within Sikkim, notably the capital, Gangtok, the daily helicopter service becomes a crucial choice for those seeking swift access in and out Sikkim. However, due to the limited availability of a single 7-seater helicopter on this route, securing seats can be challenging. Often, tickets sell out quickly, and flights may face cancellations due to chartering by VIPs or government officials. While providing convenient transit, this service might present hurdles for general tourists attempting to access this aerial passage.
Once you’re in Gangtok, the avenue to explore helicopter flights in Sikkim as a tourist gets open. Here, unlike the routine service between Gangtok and Bagdogra, SKTDC provides 5 distinct helicopter tours designed explicitly for tourists’ delight: the Joy Ride: Gangtok Aerial View, The North Sikkim Kanchenjunga Mountain Flight, the West Sikkim Kanchenjunga Mountain Flight, the Pilgrimage Flights: Char Dham – Tathangata Tsal – Samdruptse – Sai Mandir and the Tsomgo Aerial Flights.
