Delhi to Vaishno Devi 4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Friday, September 29: Arrival in Delhi

Start your journey by arriving in Delhi, the capital city of India. After checking in at your hotel, spend the morning exploring the historical wonders of Old Delhi. Visit the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Mughal Empire. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, known for its vibrant markets and delicious street food. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk at India Gate, a war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers.

• Red Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chandni Chowk: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person (for food and shopping), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• India Gate: Free Entry, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Travel to Katra

After breakfast, depart from Delhi and travel to Katra, the base camp for Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. The journey takes around 12 hours by train or 8 hours by road. Upon reaching Katra, check in at your hotel and relax for the remainder of the day.

• Train/Bus from Delhi to Katra: Estimated Cost - INR 1,000 per person (train) or INR 2,000 per person (bus), Time Spent - 8-12 hours

Sunday, October 1: Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage

Embark on a spiritual journey to Vaishno Devi, one of the holiest Hindu shrines in India. Start early in the morning to avoid crowds. The 13-kilometer uphill trek can be challenging, but the scenic beauty and devotion make it worthwhile. Reach the main shrine, offer your prayers, and seek the blessings of the goddess. After paying homage, make your way back to Katra. In the evening, relax and rejuvenate at your hotel.

• Vaishno Devi Trek: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Full day (10-12 hours)

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Vaishno Devi is Café Coffee Day, offering a variety of hot and cold beverages along with sandwiches and pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Katra Kitchen which serves authentic North Indian cuisine. Enjoy their delicious thali meals or try their flavorful biryanis. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
• In the evening, dine at The Grand Dhaba, known for its rustic ambience and mouthwatering Punjabi dishes. Try their butter chicken or paneer tikka masala. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.

Monday, October 2: Return to Delhi

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Katra. Depart for Delhi by train or road. Once you reach Delhi, you can spend the evening exploring some of the city's modern attractions. Visit the Akshardham Temple, a stunning architectural marvel, and enjoy the fascinating light and sound show. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

• Akshardham Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Dinner at a local restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Delhi, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Lodhi Gardens. This peaceful oasis offers beautifully manicured gardens, historical tombs, and a serene environment for a family picnic. Another hidden gem is the National Rail Museum, where you can explore vintage locomotives, take a joy ride on a toy train, and learn about the rich railway heritage of India. These offbeat attractions provide a unique experience away from the crowds and are perfect for families looking for a different side of Delhi.