Bihar's Heli-Tourism Push: Weekend Joyrides Over Patna at Rs 2,100
The Bihar government has approved the Chief Minister Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Scheme, 2026, aimed at improving access to key tourist and pilgrimage destinations in the state. Under a six-month pilot project starting July 15, subsidised helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft services will connect Patna with Rajgir, Kaimur, and Valmikinagar.
The scheme is being implemented by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC), which will handle bookings, marketing, refunds, and tourism packages, while the Directorate of Civil Aviation will oversee flight operations. The government hopes to reduce travel time to major heritage, religious, and wildlife destinations, thereby boosting tourism.
Tourism Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh announced the pricing details. The helicopter service from Patna to Rajgir, a premier Buddhist and heritage destination, will be priced at Rs 4,000 per seat. For Valmikinagar, the only tiger reserve and national park in Bihar, located along the Indo-Nepal border, a fixed-wing aircraft service will be available at Rs 5,000 per seat from the state capital. Additionally, the government will introduce weekend helicopter joyrides over Patna at Rs 2,100 per seat, offering residents and visitors a unique aerial view of the city.
The scheme is part of Bihar's broader efforts to develop tourism infrastructure and attract more visitors. By subsidising air travel, the state aims to make these destinations more accessible and reduce dependence on road travel, which can be time-consuming. The pilot project will be evaluated after six months, and further expansion may be considered based on demand and feasibility.
