Phata Kedarnath Uttarakhand: Distance & Helicopter booking

Phata is a small but strategically important village located on the Gopeshwar–Gaurikund road in Uttarakhand. Due to its proximity to the Kedarnath Dham helicopter route, Phata has emerged as a major heli base for Kedarnath pilgrims, especially for those unable to undertake the demanding trek.

A dedicated helipad was developed here at a cost of ₹4.5 crore and was inaugurated on 28 May 2016 by then Chief Minister Harish Rawat.

Phata Uttarakhand – Location & Importance

Phata village lies in Rudraprayag district, at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. Though small, it plays a crucial role during the Char Dham Yatra, serving as:

• A helicopter boarding point for Kedarnath

• A rest stop with basic hotels and refreshment facilities

• An alternative stay option for pilgrims avoiding crowded Gaurikund

Many pilgrims choose to halt overnight in Phata before flying to Kedarnath early the next morning.

Phata to Kedarnath Distance (All Modes Explained)

1. Phata to Kedarnath Distance by Helicopter

• Aerial Distance: ~18 km

• Flight Time: 8–10 minutes

• Phata Helipad to Kedarnath Helipad Distance: ~18 km

This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kedarnath, offering spectacular Himalayan views.

2. Phata to Kedarnath Distance by Road + Trek

• Phata to Gaurikund (Road): ~22 km

• Gaurikund to Kedarnath (Trek): ~16–18 km

• Total Road Distance: ~32 km (till Gaurikund)

Pilgrims traveling by road usually continue to Gaurikund and then trek to Kedarnath Temple.

Kedarnath to Phata Distance

• By Helicopter: ~18 km (10 minutes)

• By Trek + Road: ~32–34 km

Phata Helicopter Service to Kedarnath

Helicopter services from Phata operate daily during the Char Dham Yatra season (April/May to October/November), subject to weather conditions.

Helicopter Operators

• Pawan Hans

• Pinnacle Air

• Other DGCA-approved operators

Helicopters are typically 5–7 seater charter aircraft.

Phata to Kedarnath Helicopter Booking (IMPORTANT)

⚠️ Official Booking Website Only:
👉 https://heliservices.uk.gov.in/

Any other website claiming to sell Kedarnath helicopter tickets is unauthorized and unsafe.

Phata to Kedarnath Helicopter Price

• Approx Ticket Cost: ₹7,500 – ₹8,500 per person (round trip)

• Darshan Time Provided: 2–3 hours at Kedarnath

Prices may vary slightly depending on government notifications and demand.

Why Fly from Phata Instead of Other Helipads?

• Shorter flying time than Augustmuni

• Less congestion than Guptkashi during peak season

• Ideal for senior citizens & medically unfit pilgrims

Flying from Phata can reduce travel time by 15–20 minutes compared to other heli bases.

How to Reach Phata Uttarakhand

By Road

• Phata to Rudraprayag: ~55 km

• Phata to Augustmuni: ~40 km

• Phata to Gaurikund: ~22 km

Taxis, shared jeeps, and buses are available from Rudraprayag and Augustmuni.

By Rail

• Nearest Railway Stations:

  • Rishikesh – ~194 km

  • Dehradun – ~234 km

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport

• Distance to Phata: ~211 km

From the airport, taxis and buses are available.

Quick Distance Summary

• Phata to Kedarnath distance:

  • Helicopter: ~18 km

  • Road + trek: ~32–34 km

• Phata helipad to Kedarnath helipad distance: ~18 km

• Kedarnath to Phata distance: ~18 km (air)

• Phata to Gaurikund distance: ~22 km

Conclusion

Phata Kedarnath is more than just a helicopter base—it is a vital gateway to one of Hinduism’s holiest shrines. Whether you choose to walk the ancient pilgrim path or fly above the clouds, Phata offers a safe, scenic, and spiritually uplifting route to Lord Shiva’s abode.