3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary to Vaishno Devi

Saturday, November 11: Arrival and Exploration

Start your trip by arriving at Vaishno Devi. After checking into your hotel, head to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra. Begin your spiritual journey by trekking through the beautiful landscapes and offering your prayers at the temple. Spend the morning exploring the temple complex and immersing yourself in the religious atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the Bhairavnath Temple, located at the top of a hill, for breathtaking views of the surroundings. As the evening sets in, return to Katra and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.

• Mata Vaishno Devi Temple: Free entry, approximately 4-5 hours
• Bhairavnath Temple: Free entry, approximately 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Breakfast: Hotel Asia Vaishno Devi
• Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Hotel Asia Vaishno Devi, located in Katra. They offer a variety of breakfast options including Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• Lunch: Dawat Restaurant
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Dawat Restaurant in Katra. They serve a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes from Indian and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 350 INR per person.
• Dinner: The Vaishno Cottage
• Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at The Vaishno Cottage, a popular restaurant in Katra. They specialize in North Indian and Chinese cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, November 12: Sightseeing in Katra

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and then embark on a day of sightseeing in Katra. Start with a visit to the Vaishno Devi Spiritual Museum to learn more about the history and significance of the shrine. Next, explore the beautiful Banganga Temple, situated near the holy Banganga River. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river and soak in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the scenic Bhairav Ghati, offering panoramic views of the mountains. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring the local markets and trying out traditional Kashmiri cuisine.

• Vaishno Devi Spiritual Museum: Entry fee INR 20 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
• Banganga Temple: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
• Bhairav Ghati Cable Car Ride: Ticket price INR 100 per person (one way), approximately 2 hours

Monday, November 13: Outdoor Adventure and Departure

On your last day, indulge in some outdoor adventure before departing from Vaishno Devi. Start your morning by visiting the Shiv Khori Cave, a natural cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the magnificent stalagmites and stalactites inside the cave and witness the divine aura. In the afternoon, trek to the beautiful Ardhkuwari Cave, which holds great religious significance. After completing the trek, head back to Katra, where you can indulge in some shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts. Bid farewell to Vaishno Devi and depart for your onward journey.

• Shiv Khori Cave: Entry fee INR 100 per person, approximately 3-4 hours
• Ardhkuwari Cave: Free entry, approximately 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Nau Devi Temple located near the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi. This temple complex is dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga and offers a serene atmosphere away from the crowds. Another hidden gem is the Himkoti Viewpoint, which provides breathtaking views of the Trikuta Mountains and the surrounding valleys. Locals love to visit these places for their tranquil ambiance and spiritual significance.