Begin your day early by starting your journey from Jammu to Vaishno Devi, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site. The drive from Jammu to Katra, the base camp of the Vaishno Devi shrine, takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Arrive in Katra and begin your trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine. The trek is approximately 13 kilometers long and takes around 4-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Reach the Vaishno Devi shrine, one of the most revered Hindu temples in India. The shrine is located at an altitude of 5,300 feet and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Vaishno Devi. Spend some time exploring the temple complex and seeking blessings.
Start your descent back to Katra. You can choose to take a helicopter ride or walk down the same trail. The descend usually takes less time than the ascent.
After reaching Katra, make your way to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. The drive from Katra to Srinagar takes approximately 7-8 hours.
Check-in at one of the beautiful houseboats or hotels in Srinagar and relax after a long day of travel and trekking. Visit here to check hotel prices and availability.
While visiting Srinagar, make sure to explore the local markets like Lal Chowk and indulge in some shopping for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri carpets. Don't miss the opportunity to take a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake and witness the beautiful floating gardens. You can also visit the Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning Mughal architecture and picturesque landscapes.