Arrival: Arrive in Katra by train, bus, or car. Check-in: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Preparation: Obtain Yatra Parchi (travel slip) either online or from the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra. Relax: Spend the day at leisure to rest and prepare for the trek. Explore Katra: Visit local markets, the Banganga Temple, or enjoy a stroll around the town. Overnight: Stay in Katra.
Early Morning Start: Begin your trek to Vaishno Devi Bhawan early in the morning (approximately 12-13 km one way). Alternatively, you can use ponies, palanquins, or helicopter services. En Route: Stop at significant points like Banganga, Charan Paduka, and Adkuwari for brief rests and to soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Darshan: Reach Vaishno Devi Bhawan and perform darshan of Mata Vaishno Devi. Overnight: Stay at Vaishno Devi Bhawan (accommodations are available at the shrine).
Morning: After darshan, trek to Bhairon Temple (approximately 2.5 km from Bhawan). It is believed that the pilgrimage is incomplete without visiting this temple. Return Trek: Start your return trek to Katra. Take breaks as needed and enjoy the scenic views. Afternoon: Arrive back in Katra, check into your hotel, and relax. Evening: Enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps exploring more of Katra town or simply resting. Overnight: Stay in Katra.
Morning: After breakfast, you can explore nearby attractions: Dera Baba Banda: A historic Gurudwara located about 30 km from Katra. Shivkhori: A famous cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva (requires additional travel time). Shopping and Leisure: Spend some time shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs in Katra. Afternoon: Check out from the hotel. Departure: Proceed to your onward journey from Katra.
