Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism And Air Tourism Seva Yojana 2026 is a tourism initiative by the Tourism Department, Government of Bihar, implemented through BSTDC that provides subsidised helicopter and air services to Valmikinagar, Rajgir, and Kaimur with fares starting at Rs. 4,000 and Patna joy rides at Rs. 2,100.
Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism And Air Tourism Seva Yojana Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism And Air Tourism Seva Yojana |
| Cabinet Approval | 17 June 2026 |
| Implementing Department | Tourism Department, Government of Bihar |
| Implemented Through | Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) |
| Phase 1 Period | 15 July 2026 to 15 January 2027 |
| Operating Days | Every Saturday and Sunday |
| Tourist Destinations | Valmikinagar (West Champaran), Rajgir (Nalanda), and Kaimur (Karmchat Dam) |
| Fare from Patna to Rajgir | Rs. 4,000 (One Way) |
| Fare from Patna to Valmikinagar | Rs. 5,000 (One Way) |
| Fare from Patna to Kaimur | Rs. 6,000 (One Way) |
| Patna Helicopter Joy Ride | Rs. 2,100 per seat for a 10-minute ride |
| Joy Ride Timings | From 3:00 PM, every 30 minutes, with 4 rides each day |
| Maximum Passenger Capacity | 5 passengers per flight |
| Permitted Baggage | One soft handbag up to 3 to 4 kg with a maximum size of 22 × 11 × 7 inches |
| Booking Mode | Online through the BSTDC portal |
| Tour Package | Selection of a BSTDC tourism package is mandatory |
| Refund Policy | Full refund if the flight is cancelled due to bad weather, technical reasons, or occupancy below 60% |
| Viability Gap Funding | Rs. 3.88 crore at 100% occupancy and Rs. 4.35 crore at 60% occupancy for six months |
| Monitoring Authority | State Level Committee headed by the Development Commissioner |
| Official Booking Portal | bstdc.bihar.gov.in |
| BSTDC Helpline | +91-612-2506219, +91-612-2222622 |
| BSTDC Email | mdbstdc-bih@gov.in |
Introduction of Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism And Air Tourism Seva Yojana: A Brief Insight
Bihar is home to many famous historical, religious, and natural tourist destinations. Rajgir, the first capital of the ancient Magadha Empire, Maa Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur, one of the oldest functional Hindu temples, and the Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve in West Champaran attract thousands of visitors every year. However, travelling to these places by road takes a lot of time, making it difficult for tourists to visit multiple destinations during a single trip.
To improve tourism and make travel faster, the Tourism Department, Government of Bihar, launched the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism And Air Tourism Seva Yojana 2026. The Bihar Cabinet approved the scheme on 17 June 2026, and it is implemented through the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC).
Under this scheme, tourists can travel to important destinations through subsidised helicopter and air tourism services. The main objective is to improve tourism connectivity and make travel more convenient for visitors. Phase 1 of the scheme runs from 15 July 2026 to 15 January 2027. During this period, services are available every Saturday and Sunday for Valmikinagar, Rajgir, and Kaimur (Karmchat Dam).
One-way fares start from Rs. 4,000 for Patna to Rajgir, Rs. 5,000 for Patna to Valmikinagar, and Rs. 6,000 for Patna to Kaimur. Tourists can also enjoy a 10-minute helicopter joy ride over Patna for Rs. 2,100 per seat. Tickets can be booked online through bstdc.bihar.gov.in. Selecting a BSTDC tourism package is mandatory for booking. Each flight can accommodate up to 5 passengers. The Government of Bihar also provides Viability Gap Funding to ensure the smooth operation of the service.
Tourists planning religious travel can also explore the Sindhu Darshan Tirth Yatra Vittiye Sahayata Anudan Yojana. Under this scheme, the Bihar Government provides financial assistance to eligible pilgrims travelling to the Sindhu Darshan pilgrimage, helping reduce their travel expenses.
If you want to know about more tourism and travel-related initiatives, you can explore our List of Welfare Schemes of Bihar Government section for the latest government schemes and programmes.
Benefits Provided to Eligible Beneficiaries
Under the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli Tourism and Air Tourism Seva Yojana, the Tourism Department, through the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC), offers subsidised helicopter and air tourism services to the following destinations.
Air Tourism Routes and Fares
| Route | Departure Time | One Way Fare | Weekly Seat Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patna to Valmikinagar | 10:00 AM | Rs. 5,000 | 20 seats |
| Valmikinagar to Patna | 11:00 AM | Rs. 5,000 | 20 seats |
| Patna to Valmikinagar (Second Flight) | 3:00 PM | As per the approved schedule | As per availability |
| Valmikinagar to Patna (Second Flight) | 4:30 PM | As per the approved schedule | As per availability |
| Patna to Rajgir | 9:30 AM | Rs. 4,000 | 10 seats |
| Rajgir to Patna | 10:30 AM | Rs. 4,000 | 10 seats |
| Patna to Kaimur (Karmchat Dam) | 11:00 AM | Rs. 6,000 | 10 seats |
| Kaimur (Karmchat Dam) to Patna | 12:45 PM | Rs. 6,000 | 10 seats |
Patna Helicopter Joy Ride
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Patna |
| Fare | Rs. 2,100 per seat |
| Duration | 10 minutes |
| Operating Days | Every Saturday and Sunday |
| Timings | From 3:00 PM, with rides every 30 minutes |
| Rides Per Day | 4 |
| Passenger Capacity Per Ride | 5 passengers |
| Monthly Capacity | 160 seats |
Other Benefits
- Air tourism services are available every Saturday and Sunday during Phase 1 from 15 July 2026 to 15 January 2027.
- A full refund is provided if a flight is cancelled due to bad weather, technical reasons, or seat occupancy below 60%.
- The Government of Bihar provides Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to support the regular operation of the service, even when passenger occupancy is low.
Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled
To book helicopter or air tourism services under the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli Tourism and Air Tourism Seva Yojana, tourists must fulfil the following eligibility conditions:
- Any tourist, whether from India or abroad, can book a seat under this scheme.
- Must carry a valid government-issued photo identity proof.
- Tickets must be booked only through the Official BSTDC portal.
- Selecting a BSTDC tourism package is mandatory to avail the subsidised fare.
- Passengers must reach the departure point before the scheduled reporting time. Late arrival may result in denial of boarding.
- Only one soft handbag weighing up to 3 to 4 kg and measuring a maximum of 22 × 11 × 7 inches is allowed.
Who Is Not Eligible
- Passengers who do not select a mandatory BSTDC tourism package while booking.
- Passengers who fail to report before the scheduled boarding time.
- Passengers carrying oversized or hard luggage that is not permitted on board.
Documents Required to be Attached
Before booking a ticket under the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli Tourism and Air Tourism Seva Yojana, tourists should keep the following documents and details ready:
- Valid photo identity proof such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or any other government-issued photo ID.
- Mobile number for OTP verification and booking confirmation.
- Valid email address to receive the booking confirmation and e-ticket.
- Online payment methods such as Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking to complete the booking.
Passengers are allowed to carry only one soft handbag weighing up to 3 to 4 kg with a maximum size of 22 × 11 × 7 inches. Hard luggage and oversized baggage are not allowed on board.
How Tourists Can Book a Ticket Under This Scheme
Tickets under the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli Tourism and Air Tourism Seva Yojana can be booked only through the official BSTDC portal. Offline booking is not available. Tourists must also select a BSTDC tourism package while booking to avail the subsidised fare.
Step 1: Visit the official BSTDC portal using your mobile phone or computer.
Step 2: Open the Heli Tourism or Air Tourism section and choose your preferred destination, such as Valmikinagar, Rajgir, Kaimur, or the Patna Helicopter Joy Ride.
Step 3: Select a BSTDC tourism package for your chosen destination. It is mandatory to book tickets under the scheme.
Step 4: Choose your travel date and departure time from the available schedule. During Phase 1, services operate every Saturday and Sunday from 15 July 2026 to 15 January 2027.
Step 5: Enter the passenger details, including name, age, mobile number, email address, and valid photo identity proof details. A maximum of 5 passengers can be booked on a single flight.
Step 6: Complete the payment online using a Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking. After successful payment, your e-ticket and booking confirmation will be sent to your registered mobile number and email address.
Step 7: Reach the departure point before the scheduled reporting time with your e-ticket and original photo identity proof. You can carry only one soft handbag weighing up to 3 to 4 kg with a maximum size of 22 × 11 × 7 inches. Passengers who report late may not be allowed to board.
For booking assistance or tour package details, contact BSTDC at +91-612-2506219 or email contactbstdc@gmail.com. You can also visit the BSTDC Head Office at Bir Chand Patel Path, Patna 800001.
Tourist Destinations Covered Under Phase 1 – What to See and Why Visit
Valmikinagar, West Champaran
- Home to the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, one of the best ecotourism destinations in eastern India.
- Located near the Nepal border and known for its forests, rivers, and rich wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.
- Believed to be the place where Maharishi Valmiki composed the Ramayana.
- An ideal destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and pilgrims.
Maa Mundeshwari Temple, Kaimur
- Known as the oldest functional Hindu temple in India and believed to date back to 108 AD.
- Dedicated to Goddess Mundeshwari and Lord Shiva, the temple is situated on the Mundeshwari Hills at a height of about 608 feet.
- Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as a monument of national importance.
- A popular destination for pilgrims, history lovers, and visitors seeking scenic views.
Rajgir, Nalanda
- The first capital of the ancient Magadha Empire and one of India’s most important historical cities.
- A sacred place for Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus, where Lord Buddha delivered many of his teachings.
- Famous for the Nalanda University ruins, Vishwa Shanti Stupa, hot springs, and Griddhakuta Hill.
- An ideal destination for visitors interested in history, spirituality, and heritage tourism.
Important Links Available
- Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism Evam Air Tourism Seva Yojana Guidelines (Official PDF)
- Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) – Book Heli Tourism Tickets
- Bihar Tourism Official Portal
- Bihar Tourism Online Services Portal
- Government of Bihar Official Portal
Contact Details in Case of Help Needed
- Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC)
Bir Chand Patel Path, Patna, Bihar 800001 - Phone: +91-612-2506219, +91-612-2222622
- Fax: +91-612-2506218
- Email: mdbstdc-bih@gov.in
- General Queries: contactbstdc@gmail.com
- Tourism Department, Government of Bihar
Old Secretariat, Patna, Bihar 800015 - Phone: +91-612-2217045
- Email: secy-tourism-bih@nic.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli Tourism and Air Tourism Seva Yojana?
Ans. Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli Tourism and Air Tourism Seva Yojana 2026 is a tourism initiative of the Tourism Department, Government of Bihar. It is implemented through the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) to provide subsidised helicopter and air tourism services to major tourist destinations across Bihar.
Q. When will the scheme start?
Ans. Phase 1 of the scheme will run from 15 July 2026 to 15 January 2027. During this period, helicopter and air tourism services will be available every Saturday and Sunday.
Q. Which destinations are covered under Phase 1?
Ans. Phase 1 covers Valmikinagar, Maa Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur, and Rajgir. Tourists can also enjoy a helicopter joy ride over Patna every Saturday and Sunday.
Q. What are the ticket fares?
Ans. The one-way fare is Rs. 4,000 from Patna to Rajgir, Rs. 5,000 from Patna to Valmikinagar, and Rs. 6,000 from Patna to Kaimur. The Patna helicopter joy ride costs Rs. 2,100 per seat for a 10-minute ride.
Q. Who can book tickets under this scheme?
Ans. Any tourist from India or abroad can book tickets under this scheme. A valid government-issued photo identity proof is required, and selecting a BSTDC tourism package is mandatory while booking.
Q. Can tourists from other states apply?
Ans. Yes. Tourists from any state in India, as well as foreign tourists, can book tickets through the official BSTDC portal.
Q. How can I book a ticket?
Ans. Tickets can be booked only through the official BSTDC portal. Select your destination, choose the required tourism package, enter the passenger details, and complete the payment online.
Q. Is it compulsory to select a tourism package?
Ans. Yes. Selecting a BSTDC tourism package is mandatory to avail the subsidised fare under this scheme.
Q. How many passengers can travel on one flight?
Ans. Each flight can accommodate a maximum of 5 passengers. Weekly seat availability is 20 seats for the Patna to Valmikinagar route and 10 seats each for the Patna to Rajgir and Patna to Kaimur routes. The Patna helicopter joy ride also has 5 seats per ride, with 4 rides every day.
Q. What is the flight schedule?
Ans. Patna to Rajgir departs at 9:30 AM, while the return flight leaves at 10:30 AM. Patna to Valmikinagar departs at 10:00 AM and returns at 11:00 AM. A second Valmikinagar flight departs at 3:00 PM and returns at 4:30 PM. Patna to Kaimur departs at 11:00 AM, and the return flight leaves at 12:45 PM. Patna helicopter joy rides begin at 3:00 PM with rides every 30 minutes.
Q. What baggage can I carry?
Ans. Passengers can carry only one soft handbag weighing up to 3 to 4 kg with a maximum size of 22 × 11 × 7 inches. Hard luggage and oversized baggage are not allowed.
Q. What is the refund policy?
Ans. A full refund is provided if a flight is cancelled due to bad weather, technical reasons, or seat occupancy below 60%.
Q. What is Viability Gap Funding (VGF)?
Ans. The Government of Bihar provides Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to support regular flight operations, even when passenger occupancy is low. The estimated VGF for six months is Rs. 3.88 crore at 100% occupancy and Rs. 4.35 crore at 60% occupancy.
Q. Which authority monitors the scheme?
Ans. The scheme is monitored by a State Level Committee headed by the Development Commissioner. The committee reviews the implementation, safety, and operation of the services throughout Phase 1.
Q. Will more destinations be added in the future?
Ans. Yes. After Phase 1 ends, the Government of Bihar may add more destinations and revise the fares after reviewing the scheme and obtaining approval from the concerned departments.
Q. What happens if I reach the departure point late?
Ans. Passengers who arrive after the scheduled reporting time may not be allowed to board. Always carry your e-ticket and original photo identity proof, and report on time.
Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare scheme programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.