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Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, India

Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, India

About the Katra

Katra, also known as Katra Vaishno Devi, is a town located in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It serves as the base camp for pilgrims visiting the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi. The town is vibrant and bustling, offering a wide range of amenities, including hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to the needs of millions of devotees who visit annually. Beyond its religious significance, Katra offers scenic beauty and opportunities for exploring the surrounding Himalayan landscape.

Best Time to Visit

March to October (avoiding the monsoon season)

Trip Duration

2 days 3 days
2-3 days (including travel and pilgrimage)

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Katra

वैष्णो देवी, कटरा
वैष्णो देवी, कटरा
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Baba Dhansar
Baba Dhansar
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Mandir Charan Paduka
Mandir Charan Paduka
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Main Market Katra Bazar
Main Market Katra Bazar
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Katra Station Park
Katra Station Park
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Activities / Things To Do in Katra

  • Trekking to Vaishno Devi The primary activity is the 12 km trek to the Vaishno Devi Bhavan. Pilgrims can choose to walk, ride ponies, or use palanquins (palkis). Battery-operated vehicles are also available for a portion of the route. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Helicopter Ride For those who prefer a quicker journey, helicopter services are available from Katra to Sanjichhat, which is about 2.5 km from the Bhavan. This significantly reduces the trekking distance.
  • Visiting Ardhkuwari Cave Located halfway on the trek to Vaishno Devi, Ardhkuwari Cave is a narrow cave believed to be where the Goddess Vaishno Devi meditated for nine months. It's a significant point of pilgrimage.
  • Shopping for Souvenirs Katra is filled with shops selling religious items, souvenirs, dry fruits, Kashmiri handicrafts, and woolen clothes. It's a great place to buy mementos of your trip.
  • Relaxing and Rejuvenating Katra offers various hotels and spas where you can relax and rejuvenate after the tiring trek. Many hotels offer Ayurvedic treatments and massages.

Katra Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide

Manoranjan Dhaba
Manoranjan Dhaba
★★★★

3.6

Popularity

Prem Vaishno Dhaba
Prem Vaishno Dhaba
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

Sagar Ratna, AMR Mall, Katra
Sagar Ratna, AMR Mall, Katra
★★★★

3.5

Popularity

Jewel's Restaurant
Jewel's Restaurant
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Madhuban Satvik Restaurant
Madhuban Satvik Restaurant
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Pooja Vaishno Dhaba
Pooja Vaishno Dhaba
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Domino's Pizza | AMR Mall, Katra
Domino's Pizza | AMR Mall, Katra
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Bikanervala | Banganga Vaishnodevi
Bikanervala | Banganga Vaishnodevi
★★★★

3.2

Popularity

Accommodation

Hotel Rama Trident
Hotel Rama Trident
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

The White Hotel Katra - a member of Radisson Individuals
The White Hotel Katra - a member of Radisson Individuals
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Hotel Devi Grand
Hotel Devi Grand
★★★★

3.7

Popularity

Hotel Today
Hotel Today
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

Hotel KC Residency
Hotel KC Residency
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Hotel Durga Residency Katra
Hotel Durga Residency Katra
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Hotel Bali Resort Extension
Hotel Bali Resort Extension
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

HOTEL PREM INTERNATIONAL
HOTEL PREM INTERNATIONAL
★★★

2.9

Popularity

Collection O Jammu Road formerly Katra Retreat
Collection O Jammu Road formerly Katra Retreat
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Hotel Mount View Katra
Hotel Mount View Katra
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

How to Reach Katra

Air

The nearest airport is Jammu Airport (IXJ), which is approximately 50 km from Katra. Taxis and buses are readily available from the airport to Katra.

Bus

Katra is well-connected by road to major cities in Jammu and Kashmir and neighboring states. Regular bus services and taxis are available.

Train

Katra has its own railway station, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK), which is well-connected to major cities in India.

Important Notes

Pilgrims are required to obtain a Yatra Parchi (registration slip) before starting the trek. This can be obtained online or from the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra.
Katra and the yatra route are heavily secured. Cooperate with security personnel and follow their instructions.
The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Carry appropriate clothing, including warm clothes, even during the summer months.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trek is long and arduous.
Porters, ponies, and palanquins are available for hire. Negotiate the rates beforehand.
Medical facilities are available along the yatra route. First aid and emergency services are readily accessible.

Katra Nearby Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register before visiting Vaishno Devi?
Yes, registration is mandatory. You need to obtain a Yatra Parchi (registration slip) before starting the trek. This can be done online through the official website of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board or at the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra.
What is the best way to reach Katra?
The best ways to reach Katra are by air (nearest airport is Jammu), by train (Katra has its own railway station), or by road (well-connected by buses and taxis).
What type of clothing should I wear?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing. Even during summer, carry warm clothes as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. In winter, heavy woolen clothing is essential.
Are there any age restrictions for the yatra?
There are no strict age restrictions, but pilgrims should be physically fit enough to undertake the trek. Senior citizens and those with health issues should consult their doctor before planning the yatra.
Can I hire a porter or pony for the trek?
Yes, porters, ponies, and palanquins are available for hire. Negotiate the rates beforehand.
Are there medical facilities available on the yatra route?
Yes, medical facilities, including first aid and emergency services, are available along the yatra route.
Is there mobile network connectivity?
Mobile network connectivity is generally good in Katra and along most of the yatra route. However, there may be some areas with limited or no connectivity.
Are there lockers available to keep luggage?
Yes, lockers are available in Katra to store luggage. You can also deposit your belongings at the cloakrooms provided by the Shrine Board.
Is the yatra route open throughout the year?
The yatra is generally open throughout the year, but it may be temporarily suspended due to adverse weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. It's advisable to check the official website for updates before planning your trip.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 32.9957, Longitude 74.9528 (Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, India)