In a major boost for tourism and regional connectivity, Himachal Pradesh is set to get daily helicopter services connecting its capital with two key destinations. Starting January 14, travellers can fly from Shimla to Bhunter in Kullu and Reckong Peo in Kinnaur, drastically cutting down travel time and offering a breathtaking aerial experience.
Flight Details, Fares, and Operational Plan
The new service, a part of the Central Government's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) initiative, will be operated by Heritage Aviation. The company will use a six-seater Airbus H125 helicopter for these routes. Rohit Mathur, Founder and CEO of Heritage Aviation, provided the specific schedule and pricing.
On the Shimla-Bhunter (Kullu) route, two flights will operate daily. The fare for this scenic journey has been set at INR 3,500 per person. For the Shimla-Reckong Peo (Kinnaur) sector, one flight per day will be initiated initially, with a ticket price of INR 4,000 per person. The state government of Himachal Pradesh has extended full support to this project, with trial flights having been successfully conducted earlier this week.
Transforming Travel and Tourism in the Himalayas
This helicopter service is a game-changer for tourists, especially those with limited time. The road journey from Shimla to Kullu or Kinnaur can take anywhere between eight to twelve gruelling hours, subject to unpredictable weather and traffic conditions. The helicopter will reduce this to a matter of minutes, making short high-altitude trips a viable and comfortable option.
For the Kullu Valley: The Shimla-Bhunter corridor acts as a swift gateway to the adventure hub of Himachal. From Bhunter, Manali is just an hour's drive away, opening up possibilities for skiing in Solang Valley, exploring cafes in Old Manali, visiting Naggar Castle, or embarking on river rafting and trekking expeditions.
For Kinnaur: The Shimla-Reckong Peo service caters to travellers seeking serene and less-crowded vistas. Reckong Peo, the district headquarters, serves as the base for exploring Kinnaur's majestic landscapes. Tourists can plan excursions to Kalpa for views of the Kinnaur Kailash range, visit ancient monasteries, or discover apple-growing villages in the Sangla Valley.
A Significant Boost for Regional Economy
Beyond convenience, this air connectivity is expected to provide a substantial impetus to tourism in remote regions like Kinnaur, which often faces isolation during winter months. The improved accessibility is likely to benefit local economies by supporting homestays, local guides, and small businesses, promoting sustainable and dispersed tourism beyond the popular hill stations.
With the launch of these daily flights, the skies of Himachal Pradesh are poised to offer a new dimension of travel—combining speed with unparalleled panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep river valleys, and remote mountain settlements that truly define the soul of the state.
