Revered as one of the most visited temples in India, Vaishno Devi Shrine is beautifully nestled atop the Trikuta Hills. Dedicated to Maa Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of Hindu Goddess Adi Shakti, the white shrine looks astounding amidst verdant environs. Mata Rani dwells here within a holy cave in the form of Pindies (rock formations). The three pindies are Goddess Kali, Goddess Saraswati, and Goddess Lakshmi, collectively known as Vaishno Devi.

Every year innumerable devotees embark on Vaishno Devi Yatra with full devotion. Although the sacred pilgrimage commands an arduous trek of 13 km plus 1.5 km (till Bhairon Ghati), that shakes the devotees’ strong faith. However, it is believed that Goddess herself calls pilgrims to the temple. Without ‘Mata Ka Bulawa,’ you can’t pay a visit to the holy site. Nevertheless, the sanctum sanctorum remains thronged with tourists throughout the year as the Goddess is believed to grant all the visitors’ wishes.

Best Time to visit Vaishno Devi

Maa Vaishno Devi Yatra goes on throughout the year. However, a few things should be kept in mind while looking for the best time to plan Mata Vaishno Devi tour. Months of May and June, Navratras, usually falling in April and October and the last week of December witnessed a peak rush. Though the winter months experience heavy snowfall, the season can be considered to plan your trip. Keeping aside the risk of landslides in a few areas, monsoon season can also be suited for the same.

How to reach Vaishno Devi?

Vaishno Devi is located in Katra, which is easily accessible from the rest of the country.

Vaishno Devi By Flight

Jammu is the nearest airport to Katra. It lies at a distance of 49 km, and from here, one can quickly get a cab to Katra.

Vaishno Devi By Train

Devotees can now comfortably reach Katra by train. The town has got Katra Railway Station which lies 1.2 km away.

Vaishno Devi By Bus

Katra is well-connected with Jammu by road. Moreover, various busses ply from Jammu to Katra daily, thereby helping devotees to reach their destination easily.

How to reach Vaishno Devi (Bhawan) from Katra

Vaishno Devi trek starts from Katra. The distance between Katra and the holy Bhawan is 13.0 km. There are various ways by which Yatris can reach the shrine easily.

• Helicopter service

Devotees planning Vaishno Devi Yatra by helicopter can avail of the service from Katra. You can fly to Sanji Chhat, which is 3.5 away from Bhawan. Hire a pony or horse from here if you’re unable to trek.

• Palkis

Palkis is for the ease of senior citizens and overweight devotees. Palanquin bearers carefully carry the pilgrims to the Bhawan in order to help them complete their sojourn efficiently.

• Ponies

Another way of traveling to Vaishno Devi Bhawan from Katra is by hiring a pony. The facility is a boon for the people who don’t feel comfortable walking for long.

• Pithoos

One can avail of the facility of Pithoos, who help carry luggage or a baby from the starting point to the holy cave.

• Auto

Auto service was started to make the Yatra bereft of any hassle for the sick, infirm, and handicapped devotees. Also known as electric vehicles, these carry devotees from Adhkuwari to Bhawan.

• Horse

Horses are also available to take you from Ban Ganga to the sacred Bhawan.

• On foot

Although involving a challenging trek, many pilgrims still complete their Vaishno Devi Yatra on foot. Various halts en route take all the weariness away and make the devotees cherish a heavenly experience.

Travel from Vaishno Devi Bhawan to Bhairo (By Ropeway)

Recently a new service has been started and has become the center of attraction within no time. Pilgrims can now delight in a ropeway ride from Vaishno Devi Bhawan to Bhairav Baba Mandir. It is believed that the Yatra remains incomplete without visiting the shrine of Bhairav Baba. But, because of climbing a steep ascent, many pilgrims dropped the idea of reaching the temple. However, with the introduction of the ropeway facility, pilgrims can now complete their journey efficiently.

Vaishno Devi Yatra Registration counter

In order to start the Yatra, getting yourself registered at the Yatra registration counter is mandatory. Then, following a simple process, devotees get a Yatra Parchi which they have to show at Ban Ganga and near Bhawan. Pilgrims can apply for the Yatra parchi online as well. However, they must carry a printout of the slip with them during the holy sojourn.

If you are required more information regarding Vaishno Devi Yatra, you can contact our tour experts.