Start your journey to Vaishno Devi by arriving at Jammu Airport. From there, take a taxi or bus to Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Check into your hotel and spend the morning getting acclimatized to the surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Ardh Kuwari Cave, located halfway to the Vaishno Devi shrine, and seek blessings. In the evening, explore the local markets in Katra and enjoy a traditional dinner.
Begin your day early to embark on the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Start the uphill trek to the holy shrine, which is approximately 13 kilometers from Katra. Along the way, stop at Banganga, Charan Paduka, and Adhkuwari to rest and recharge. Reach the Bhawan, the main shrine, and offer prayers to the goddess Vaishno Devi. After seeking blessings, trek back to Katra and spend the evening relaxing at your hotel.
On your last day, take a day trip to the picturesque hill station of Patnitop. Enjoy the scenic drive from Katra to Patnitop and soak in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Spend the morning exploring the meadows and pine forests of Patnitop. In the afternoon, visit the Naag Temple, which is believed to be over 600 years old. End your day by indulging in local delicacies at one of the restaurants in Patnitop before returning to Katra.
While in Katra, take some time to visit the Bhairavnath Temple, located at a distance from the main Vaishno Devi shrine. It is believed that the pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi is incomplete without seeking blessings at this temple. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Jhajjar Kotli, a serene picnic spot with a natural waterfall, located approximately 35 kilometers from Katra. It offers a peaceful atmosphere amidst nature and is perfect for a family outing.
For hotel and flight bookings in Vaishno Devi, you can check the prices on Kayak.