About :
The yatra to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the holiest and the most arduous pilgrimages for Hindus all over the world. The shrine is at an altitude of 5,300 feet and is about 14 kilometres from Katra. The trek is not an easy one as the hills are steep and requires a lot of stamina and fitness.
Over the years, the facilities along the route to the holy shrine have made the journey comfortable. For the elderly and those of ill health, mule and pony rides are available to negotiate the steep incline. Furthermore, pilgrims can also avail helicopter services from Katra and Jammu to Sanjichat. Sanjichat is the highest point on the trekking route of Vaishno Devi. The Bhawan is a downhill trek of about 2.5 km from Sanjichat. Pure vegetarian food stalls and hygienic outlets are available at regular intervals so the pilgrims do not face any hassle during their journey.
Best Time to Visit Vaishno Devi
Peak Season
Vaishno Devi is open for pilgrims throughout the year, but the best time to undertake the journey is between the months of March and October. A lot of pilgrims visit Vaishno Devi between these months as the weather is cool and pleasant, but maximum visitors plan their trip during the Navratras.
Off Season
During the winters from November to February, the temperature reaches sub-zero levels and we recommend only the physically fit to visit at that time. The upside is that this is the time when the skies open up and Katra and the surrounding areas are cloaked in snow
HOW TO REACH ?
By Air
Located at a distance of 50 kilometres, the Jammu airport is the nearest to Katra. Jammu is well-connected with major airports in India. It’s easy to get a cab from the Jammu airport to Katra as regular taxi and cab services are available.
By Bus
Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation buses operate to and from Jammu to Katra at regular intervals. Air-conditioned private deluxe buses and taxis are also available from Jammu to Katra.
Places To Eat in Vaishno Devi:
Pooja Vaishno Dhaba
Pooja Vaishno Dhaba is one of the few restaurants in Vaishno Devi that serves Chinese dishes. The food at Pooja Vaishno Dhaba is good and the service is more than satisfactory. Apart from Chinese, the restaurant also serves Indian dishes and fast food. ...
Manoranjan Dhaba
Manoranjan Dhaba in Katra is a foodie’s delight! Specializing in Indian cuisines, the restaurant is known for serving delicious palates of paneer dishes dripping with generous helpings of ghee. The ambience in general is pleasant and the service is top-notch. ...
Free Food Bhandars
There is a free food bhandar set up at the first checkpoint en route to Vaishno Devi. Pilgrims are provided hot and fresh free food at this checkpoint
By Train
The nearest railway station from Katra is the Udhampur railway station. Taxi and cab services are available from the railway station to Katra.
