Katra, located in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu & Kashmir, is a famous pilgrimage town and the starting point for the holy journey to the Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. Every year, millions of devotees come here to begin the 13 km trek to the sacred shrine, which can be completed on foot, by pony, palki, electric vehicle, or helicopter. The route passes important spiritual spots like Banganga—the holy stream where Mata Vaishno Devi is believed to have created water for her devotee—Ardhkuwari Cave, where she meditated for nine months, and finally the Bhairon Temple, which completes the pilgrimage with breathtaking mountain views. Besides its religious significance, Katra offers serene landscapes, clean pathways, and good facilities for travelers, making it a peaceful blend of spirituality, nature, and devotion.