10-Day Vaishno Devi Itinerary for Families

1. Day 1: Arrive in Jammu
   1 hour 15 minutes (30 miles) from Katra

   Explore the city's temples and markets before heading to Katra, the base camp for Vaishno Devi.

2. Day 2: Vaishno Devi Trek
   12.5 kilometers from Katra

   Begin the trek to the Vaishno Devi temple, stopping at scenic spots like Ardhkuwari and Sanjichat. Expect moderate to difficult trekking.

3. Day 3: Charanpaduka and Bhairon Temple
   5.3 kilometers from main temple

   Visit the holy temple of Bhairon and the rock formations at Charanpaduka before heading back to Katra.

4. Day 4: Patnitop
   58 kilometers from Katra

   Take a scenic drive to Patnitop, a popular hill station with picturesque views, trekking opportunities and is perfect for family bonding.

5. Day 5: Kud and Sudh Mahadev Temple
   70 kilometers from Katra

   Drive to Kud waterfall and then head to the Sudh Mahadev temple, known for its natural water spring.

6. Day 6: Mansar Lake
   62 kilometers from Katra

   Visit the beautiful Mansar Lake, where you can do boating and enjoy local delicaces, later head back to Katra for overnight stay.

7. Day 7: Shiv Khori
   80 kilometers from Katra

   Visit the Shiv Khori cave, a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, which houses naturally forming stalagmites and is considered holy.

8. Day 8: Baba Dhansar and Baba Chamliyal Mandir
   46 kilometers from Katra

   Explore Baba Dhansar waterfall, a popular picnic spot, then visit Baba Chamliyal Mandir known for its much hyped fair.

9. Day 9: Katra Local Sightseeing
   In and around Katra

   Visit the Raghunath Temple, Katra's main attraction. Next, go for a sunset walk to the shrine of Vaishno Devi to experience the serene ambiance uplift you. Be ready to be mesmerized.

10. Day 10: Departure from Jammu
    1 hour 15 minutes (30 miles) from Katra

    Head back to Jammu for onward travel.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Jammu Local Sightseeing (2 days, INR 4,000)
• Trek to Vaishno Devi temple (1 day, free)
• Charanpaduka and Bhairon temple (1 day, free)
• Patnitop(2 days, INR 4,000)
• Kud and Sudh Mahadev Temple (1 day, INR 2,500)
• Mansar Lake (1 day, INR 1,500)
• Shiv Khori (1 day, INR 1,500)
• Baba Dhansar and Baba Chamliyal Mandir (1 day, INR 2,000)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 16,000

Useful Tips

You can opt to spend more time in Jammu, Patnitop, or other nearby places for additional sightseeing and adventure activities like paragliding, boating, or camping. If you have limited time, consider skipping some day trips depending on your interest.