Best Time
Mar–Oct
Altitude
760 m
Summer
20°C–38°C
Winter
5°C–18°C
About Katra
Katra is a bustling town at the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu, serving as the base camp for the revered Vaishno Devi shrine — one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, attracting over 8 million devotees annually. The 13 km trek from Katra to the holy cave shrine is a spiritual journey through dramatic mountain terrain.
Beyond its spiritual significance, Katra offers scenic beauty, vibrant bazaars, and serves as a gateway to broader Kashmir tourism. The town has developed excellent infrastructure with hotels, restaurants, and transport facilities. The surrounding hills offer panoramic views, and the nearby Shiv Khori and Patnitop add adventure dimensions to any pilgrimage trip.
Things to Do
Vaishno Devi Yatra
The iconic 13 km pilgrimage trek to the holy cave at 5,200 ft. Available by foot, pony, helicopter, or palanquin.
Bhairon Temple
Visit the Bhairon Temple, 2.5 km beyond the main shrine, for panoramic views and to complete the yatra.
Shiv Khori Cave
A natural cave temple 80 km from Katra with a naturally formed Shiva lingam — a fascinating geological and spiritual site.
Katra Bazaar
Explore the vibrant market for dry fruits, saffron, Kashmiri handicrafts, and religious offerings.
Sanasar Lake
A scenic cup-shaped meadow 20 km away offering paragliding, horse riding, and camping.
Jhajjar Kotli
A beautiful riverside picnic spot 16 km from Katra with waterfalls and natural pools.
How to Reach Katra
By Air: Jammu Airport is 50 km (1.5 hours). Vaishno Devi Airport at Katra is planned but currently Jammu is the nearest.
By Road: Well-connected to Jammu (50 km), Srinagar (270 km), and Delhi (650 km) via NH-44. Regular buses and taxis available.
By Rail: Katra has its own railway station (Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra) — the northern terminus of the Jammu-Udhampur-Katra line.
Travel Tips
- Book yatra slips online in advance at maavaishnodevi.org — walk-in registrations can have long waits during peak season.
- Start the trek early morning (3-4 AM) to avoid heat and crowds. The return trek is easier in the cooler evening.
- Carry light warm clothing — the shrine area at 5,200 ft can be cold even in summer, especially at night.
- Comfortable trekking shoes are essential. Avoid chappals/sandals for the steep climb.
- Lockers and cloakrooms are available at the base for storing luggage you don't want to carry on the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Vaishno Devi trek take?
The 13 km uphill trek typically takes 5-7 hours. The return is 3-4 hours. Most devotees complete the round trip in 1 day, but overnight stay at Bhawan is possible.
Is helicopter service available to Vaishno Devi?
Yes, helicopter service operates from Katra helipad to Sanjichhat (near the shrine). The 5-minute flight costs around ₹1,800 one way. Advance booking is recommended.
What is the best time to visit Katra?
March to October offers pleasant weather. Navratri (April and October) sees the highest pilgrim footfall. Winter is cold but the shrine remains open year-round.
Can I combine Katra with a Kashmir trip?
Absolutely! Many packages include Katra as a stop before or after Kashmir. It's a 6-7 hour drive from Srinagar, making it a natural addition to any J&K itinerary.
Packages Including Katra
Explore curated packages that include Katra in the itinerary.