The Himachal Pradesh government in a bid to facilitate pilgrims during the sacred Manimahesh pilgrimage in the remote areas of Chamba district has now introduced chopper service. The state government has now given permission for the 2 private heli-taxi operators namely - Shiva Heli Service and Virat Heli Service to ferry pilgrims till the end of the pilgrimage.
“The choppers will ferry devotees between Bharmour town, the base camp of the pilgrimage, and Gauri Kund, just one km short of the lake. The chopper service operates daily, if the weather permits. The to-and-fro fare per person is Rs.7, 500,” Deputy Commissioner Devesh Kumar said.
The Manimahesh Yatra that kick starts from 2nd September witnesses more than 500,000 devotees every year. The journey on foot starts from Hadsar at a height of 6,000 feet and concludes at 13,500 feet at Manimahesh Lake from where pilgrims can see Mount Kailash, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
Further, Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) that has been actively involved in promoting its state has plans to introduce house boats in the prominent lakes on the lines of Jammu and Kashmir and unveil special packages for visitors during the CWG (Commonwealth Games) event.
