Tourists have reason to cheer. The Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation Limited (STDC) has slashed the helicopter fare for the Bagdogra–Gangtok route. Earlier priced at ₹4,500, the fare has now been reduced to ₹3,100.
According to an official statement issued on Thursday (27 November), the revised fare comes into effect immediately.
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Baggage rules updated
As per the new guidelines:
One bag up to 7 kg: Free
Baggage 8–15 kg: Additional ₹50 per passenger
Baggage above 15 kg: ₹500 per passenger
Extra baggage will be allowed subject to space availability on the helicopter.
The fare for Gangtok joyrides and charter flights remains unchanged, STDC confirmed.
Tourism sector welcomes the move
Winter draws large numbers of tourists to the hills, and industry stakeholders believe the fare cut will encourage more travellers to choose helicopter services.
Samrat Sanyal, General Secretary of the Himalayan Hospitality and Tourism Development Network, expressed satisfaction with the decision.
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He said: “Many travellers prefer helicopters to save time or for the experience. High fares often discourage them. The reduced fare will benefit tourists and likely increase passenger numbers.”
A standard 16-seater helicopter typically carries 8–10 passengers per trip, officials said.
