One of India's most widely regarded pilgrimages, the Vaishno Devi temple, is located within a cave on the Trikuta peak in Jammu and Kashmir. From Katra's base camp, situated at an elevation of 5200 feet, it is an approximately 12-kilometre journey. Despite this challenging travel, Vaishno Devi Temple receives over one crore visitors yearly, with a spike in footfall during the Navratris.
So, without further ado, let's take a quick look at the various options you have for travelling from Katra to Ardhkuwari and then from Ardhkuwari to Bhawan on your trip to Vaishno Devi.
1. Helicopter Ride
An exciting and pleasant helicopter flight would enhance the overall experience of visiting the holy destination. The tourists must reserve the helicopter tour at least two months in advance. Eight minutes is how long the helicopter flight lasts; it can carry between five to six people at once. Nearly 30 minutes pass after arriving at Sanjhichhat Point before reaching Vaishno Devi Temple. A one-way helicopter ride from Katra to Sanjhichhat will cost roughly Rs. 1800 per person.
2. Trek All The Way Up To Vaishno Devi Temple
If you're up for a bit of exercise and don't mind walking all the way up to the Vaishno Devi temple, which is approximately 13 km from Katra, then you can choose to walk on foot all the way up to seek the blessings of Maa Vaishno Devi.
3. Palanquins or Ponies
Several devotees may need help to walk up to Vaishno Devi Temple, zipping through the treacherous 13 km path at a time. So for the convenience of such pilgrims, those who are not fond of trekking or have any ongoing physical ailment can choose to avail of porter services or reach the temple enjoying a slow ride on palanquins or ponies.
How to reach Vaishno Devi Temple
The journey to Vaishno Devi can be undertaken via car, train, or flight. All the major cities have good flight connections to Jammu, and there is also the option of taking a train to get there.
From Jammu Tawi, Amritsar, New Delhi, and other significant Indian cities, buses to Katra run frequently. From several major cities, numerous daily and weekly trains run to Jammu, and only a small number of these have been extended to Katra. The closest terminal, 20 kilometres from the revered Vaishno Devi temple, is the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway station.
Best Time To Visit Vaishno Devi Temple
Though Vaishno Devi temple can be visited all year round, most tourists flock there in March and July because of the lovely and comforting weather.
One must also remember that the pilgrimage can only be made by registering for the same. There are mainly two modes to get it done - online and offline. It is required to carry a printout of the registration slip during the holy pilgrimage. Thus, take the printout of the Yatra slip with you without fail. The registration counter in Katra's primary market is where you can register offline. Additionally, there is a counter at Tarakote Marg's starting point where you can register offline right away.
Places To Visit In And Around Vaishno Devi Temple
Katra is a charming tiny town in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir's Trikuta Mountains. One of the region's main attractions is the Vaishno Devi Temple, although there are many more sights to visit in and around that locality. You may have a terrific time at several locations close to Vaishno Devi Temple.
Patnitop
Patnitop is a hillside tourist site concealed at the height of 2,024 metres above sea level. It is located 85 kilometres from Katra on a plateau in the Shivaliks. Patnitop, a haven for nature lovers and photographers, is dotted with infinite meadows and offers expansive vistas of the snow-kissed Himalayas.
Baba Dhansar
Close to Karua Jheel, Baba Dhansar is one of the unusual spots in Jammu (pond). This holy site is located in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi area, 13 kilometres from Katra. The sacred pond is not a place to take a bath. Devotees can, however, take a bath downstream.
Shiv Khori
The 200 m long and 3 m high cave shrine is among the many notable ones in the area. The Shiv Khori temple, 54 kilometres from Katra, set in the wilderness, is devoted to Lord Shiva. There is a genuine Shivalinga in this cave where travellers can seek the blessings of the lord.
Sanasar
Sanasar, 103 kilometres away from Katra, is renowned for its picturesque vistas of impressive mountain ranges, especially the Brammah Massif. Sanasar is a cup-shaped meadow surrounded by towering woods. This lesser-known highland station is a haven for thrill seekers & nature lovers.
Where To Stay In Katra?
The hotels listed below are renowned for providing top-notch amenities and a comfortable stay for visitors. So without further ado, check out our list of the chosen hotels in Katra for travellers planning a trip to Vaishno Devi temple with their families.
1. Ramada by Wyndham Katra
The Ramada by Wyndham Katra offers tastefully-designed rooms, a fitness centre, a communal lounge, and more. It is located in Katra, 2 kilometres from Vaishno Devi. The hotel has a garden and is a short distance from several well-known attractions: The hotel also offers visitors a 24-hour front desk, room service, and complete privacy.
Average Nightly Tariff: INR 5,000
You can book this property here
2. Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Katra
At Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Katra, you'll be treated like a king and receive first-rate services. The Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Katra has beautifully designed modern rooms and a garden and is situated in Katra, 1.6 km from Vaishno Devi. Arli, Nale, and Mardl are other well-known attractions close to the lodging. Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Katra, is 50 km from Jammu Airport, the closest airport.
Average Nightly Tariff: INR 7,400
You can book this property here
3. Cardinal Ambica
The property features modern architecture, and the rejuvenating hotel is nestled just 2 km away from Vaishno Devi. You can choose to indulge in visiting the nearby places, or you can enjoy a leisurely walk in the well-manicured gardens.
Average Nightly Tariff: INR 3,800
You can book this property here
Gone are the times of armchair travel; it's time to plan a real vacation with your family to the revered destination amidst the serene hills. Knowing everything, there is to know about visiting Vaishno Devi temple has made it easier to prepare for your journey. So, what are you waiting for?
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