Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (EP)

Udupi, Dec 22: Minister of fisheries, youth empowerment, sports and district in-charge Pramod Madhwaraj on Friday December 22 inaugurated heli tourism at Adi Udupi helipad here.

Addressing the gathering, Madhwaraj said that there are ample opportunities to convert several natural scenic places into tourist attractions. "Several programmes have been taken up by the department of tourism, sports and youth empowerment to develop Udupi as a tourist hub."

"Heli tourism rides will be held in Adi Udupi from December 22 to December 27 and in Meridian Resort, Kundapur from December 28 to December 31. Rs 2,500 will be charged per person for a joy ride of eight minutes and Rs 3,500 per person for an adventure ride of thirteen minutes. Six people besides the pilot can ride in a helicopter at a time," said assistant director of tourism Anitha.

"Malpe beach, port, Manipal and Udupi city can be seen during the Udupi ride and backwaters, Gangolli port and Kodi beach can be seen during the Kundapur ride.

"A few stunts will be shown during the adventure ride. As many as 33 rides were held every day the last time we had this. Fifteen people have already registered this time. Helicopter from Delhi's Chipson Aviation company is being used for tourism. Expert Capt Ramesh is the pilot," she said.

"Government land in Adi Udupi was used as helipad in the past. As there was no scope for heli tourism there, it was problematic. Land measuring 6.38 acre has now been handed over to the department of tourism," she said.

The heli tourism has been organized by Mantra Tourism Company. 

For bookings, contact:

Mantra Tourism Company
Udupi
Dec 22- 27
Ph: 9483968721

Kundapur
Dec 28-31
Ph: 7899477467