Begin your journey from Katra, which is the base camp for the Vaishnodevi trek. Explore the local markets and indulge in some scrumptious street food before starting the trek. The trek to Vaishnodevi shrine is about 15 km, and it usually takes around 4-5 hours to complete. The trail is a bit steep and challenging, but the scenic views make it worth the effort. After reaching the shrine, seek blessings of the divine goddess, and relish the tranquil environment.
Start your day early, and trek to the Bhairavnath Temple, located on a hilltop on the way to Vaishnodevi shrine. The temple is dedicated to Bhairavnath, who was said to be a demon whom Goddess Vaishno Devi killed. The climb to the temple is steep and challenging, but the panoramic view from the top is breathtakingly beautiful. You can also visit the Ardhkuwari cave en route to the temple, which is believed to be the place where Goddess Vaishno Devi meditated for nine months.
On the last day, head to the scenic hill station of Patnitop, which is located at an altitude of 2024 meters above sea level. The place is known for its lush green forests, gurgling streams, and pleasant weather. You can indulge in some adventure activities like skiing, paragliding, trekking, and camping. Also, visit the Naag Temple, which is located on a plateau and provides an aerial view of the entire valley.
If you have more than 3 days, you can add a visit to the Shivkhori cave, which is about 100 km from Katra. It is a beautiful cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and believed to be one of the oldest shrines in Jammu and Kashmir. If you have less than 3 days, you can skip Patnitop and explore the local markets and temples of Katra. However, it is not recommended to rush the trek to Vaishnodevi shrine, as it requires adequate rest and preparation.