The Vaishno Devi Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is located on the Trikuta Hills and can be reached by trekking or a helicopter ride. Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat. The trek is 12 km long and takes around 4-6 hours to reach the temple. The path is well paved and there are restrooms, refreshment stalls and medical facilities available along the way. The temple is open 24 hours a day and a darshan pass can be obtained at the starting point. After darshan, enjoy the scenic beauty of the location and return to your hotel for the night.
Start the day with a visit to the Bhairavnath Temple. The temple is dedicated to Bhairav, the protector deity of the Vaishno Devi Temple. It is believed that the pilgrimage is incomplete without a visit to this temple. The temple is located at Bhawan, 2.5 km from Vaishno Devi Temple. The trek to the temple is steep but rewarding with a panoramic view of the valley. After darshan, visit the Ardhkunwari Cave, located halfway between Bhairavnath Temple and Vaishno Devi Temple. The cave is believed to be the place where Mata Vaishno Devi meditated for 9 months before defeating the demon king, Bhairav. Return to Katra for lunch and explore the local markets in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a light and sound show at the Vaishno Devi Temple.
Apart from these popular destinations, you can also consider visiting the Sanjichhat, located midway of the trek to Vaishno Devi Temple. It offers a bird's eye view of the valley and is a popular resting spot. You can also take a detour to Patnitop, located 80 km from Katra, for a scenic view of the valley and indulge in some adventure activities like paragliding, skiing, and trekking. To maximize your fun, plan your trip during the annual Vaishno Devi Festival, which takes place in October-November. It is a grand celebration and attracts a large crowd. Make sure to book your hotels and flights in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.