Bihar Launches Subsidised Heli-Tourism Service

Bihar launched the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme 2026 in Patna on 12 July 2026. The scheme is a joint initiative of the tourism department and the civil aviation department, and it provides subsidised helicopter and air tourism services to selected destinations in the state.

Scheme Features

The state government will provide a subsidy of up to ₹15,422 per ticket under the scheme. Online booking began on 13 July 2026, and operations are scheduled to start on 18 July 2026. The service will run initially on Saturdays and Sundays.

Routes and Fare Structure

In the first phase, the service connects Patna with Valmikinagar, Maa Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur, and Rajgir. The fare for a 10-minute Patna joy ride is ₹2,100, while the Patna-Rajgir fare is ₹4,000, the Patna-Valmikinagar fare is ₹5,000, and the Patna-Kaimur fare is ₹6,000.

Aircraft and Operational Details

A government aircraft will operate on the Valmikinagar route. A rented 6+2 seater helicopter will operate on the Kaimur and Rajgir routes, with a maximum of five tourist seats per ferry.

Important Facts for Exams

• Bihar is a landlocked state in eastern India, and Patna is its capital.
• Valmikinagar is located in West Champaran district and is known for Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
• Maa Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur is often cited among the oldest functional temples in India.
• Rajgir is a historic town in Nalanda district and is associated with Buddhism and Jainism.

Tourism and Aviation Context

Heli-tourism is a form of aerial tourism that uses helicopters for short-distance travel and sightseeing. Air tourism services in India are often linked with religious tourism, heritage tourism, and access to remote destinations.