The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in the Trikuta hills is one of India's most visited pilgrimages. Every year millions of devotees walk from Katra to the holy cave. With a little preparation the yatra is comfortable even for first-timers and senior citizens.
Getting to Katra
- By train: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) station has direct trains from Delhi, including the Vande Bharat. Book on IRCTC.
- By air: the nearest airport is Jammu, about 50 km / 1.5–2 hours away.
- By road: Katra is well connected by bus and taxi from Jammu.
Registration (Yatra Parchi / RFID Card)
Every pilgrim must register. You can book online on the official Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board website or register at the counters in Katra and Jammu. Collect your RFID card in Katra and start the trek within the validity period mentioned on it. Carry a photo ID.
Trek Routes
Traditional route via Ardhkuwari (about 12–13 km)
Katra → Banganga → Charan Paduka → Ardhkuwari → Sanjichhat → Bhawan. The path is paved, lit at night and lined with refreshment points. Ardhkuwari has its own cave darshan which requires a separate token.
Himkoti / Tarakote route
The newer Tarakote Marg starts near Katra and joins the old route, and the Himkoti stretch from Ardhkuwari is less steep and closed to ponies, making it quieter and cleaner.
Battery car
Battery cars run between Ardhkuwari and Bhawan on the Himkoti track, mainly for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims. Seats are limited and booked through the Shrine Board.
Helicopter Service
Helicopters fly from Katra to Sanjichhat, about 2.5 km from the Bhawan. Tickets are released online on the Shrine Board portal and sell out quickly, especially during Navratri. Flights depend on weather.
Ropeway to Bhairon Temple
After darshan, most devotees visit Bhairon Baba temple – the yatra is traditionally considered complete only after this. A passenger ropeway connects Bhawan to Bhairon Ghati, saving a steep climb.
Best Time to Go
- March–June and September–October: pleasant weather, though Navratri and summer holidays are crowded.
- July–August: monsoon; paths can be slippery.
- December–January: cold, with occasional snow near Bhawan – fewer crowds and a special experience.
What to Carry
Comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket, a warm layer for night, ID, a small bag (lockers are available), and medicines. Leather items, mobile phones and cameras are not allowed inside the cave area.
Where to Stay
Katra has hotels for every budget. The Shrine Board also runs accommodation at Katra, Adhkuwari and Bhawan, bookable online.
Combine with Kashmir
Many families combine darshan with a Kashmir holiday – Katra to Srinagar is now a short, scenic journey. Explore our Kashmir packages or these yatra tours:
Related reading: Best time to visit Kashmir · Char Dham Yatra guide
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Vaishno Devi trek take?
Most people take 5–7 hours one way on foot, depending on fitness and crowds.
Is registration compulsory for Vaishno Devi?
Yes. Every pilgrim needs a yatra registration and RFID card.
Can elderly people do the yatra?
Yes, using helicopter, ponies, palkis or the battery car between Ardhkuwari and Bhawan.
Is the trek open at night?
Yes, the route is open round the clock and well lit.
Make the journey your own.
Explore itineraries inspired by the places in this guide.
Explore tour packages
