Begin your journey to the Vaishnodevi Temple, one of the most visited temples in India. The trek to the temple is around 13 km and takes around 6-8 hours. You can also opt for a helicopter ride that will take only 8 minutes. The temple is open 24 hours, and the best time to visit is early morning or late night to avoid crowds. After reaching the temple, take blessings from the goddess and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Visit the Bhairavnath Temple, which is located inside the Vaishnodevi Temple Complex and is dedicated to the deity Bhairav. The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. After seeking blessings at the temple, you can explore the nearby market, which offers a range of souvenirs and delicious food.
Visit the Ardh Kuwari Cave, also known as the Garbha Joon cave, which is located on the route to the Vaishnodevi Temple. The cave is believed to have been the place where the goddess hid from Bhairav, her devotee. The cave is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The cave is around 14 km from Katra, and you can reach there by hiring a taxi or taking a helicopter ride.
Visit the Shiv Khori cave, which is located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its natural lingam. The cave is around 70 km from the Vaishnodevi Temple, and it takes around 2-3 hours to reach there. The cave is open for visitors from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Visit the Baba Dhansar temple, located around 15 km from Katra. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by a beautiful water stream and lush green forests. The temple is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. After seeking blessings at the temple, you can enjoy a picnic near the waterfall and enjoy local delicacies.
Visit Patnitop, a picturesque hill station located around 80 km from Katra. The place is famous for its snow-covered mountains, lush green forests, and panoramic views. You can indulge in adventure activities like skiing, trekking, and camping. The best time to visit Patnitop is between April to June.
You can also visit the Baba Sodal Temple, located around 70 km from Katra, and the Krimchi Temples, located around 26 km from Udhampur. You can also explore the local food markets and try traditional sweets like patisa, kalakand, and dry fruits like walnuts, almonds, and cashews.