Pilgrimage
Vaishno Devi
The hill shrine above Katra, reached by a 12 km walk, pony, palki or helicopter.
Best time: March to October; year-round with warm clothing
Altitude: 1,585 m
The Vaishno Devi shrine sits at about 1,585 m in the Trikuta hills above Katra. The climb from Katra is roughly 12 km on a paved, well-lit path that stays open through the night, and many pilgrims prefer to walk it after dark when it is cooler.
A yatra slip from the registration counter at Katra is required before starting. Helicopter tickets to Sanjichhat cut out most of the climb and sell out well in advance.
A yatra slip from the registration counter at Katra is required before starting. Helicopter tickets to Sanjichhat cut out most of the climb and sell out well in advance.
Main attractions
- Vaishno Devi Bhawan
- Ardhkuwari
- Bhairavnath Temple
- Sanjichhat
- Banganga
Things to do
- Collect the yatra slip at Katra
- Walk the 12 km track or take a pony
- Continue to Bhairavnath Temple after darshan
