In the morning, after arriving at Jammu Airport, you will be picked up by a private car and driven to Katra. From there, you will begin your trek to Bhawan, the main shrine of Vaishno Devi, which is approximately 13.5 km away. The trek is a steep climb, but it is well-paved and has plenty of shops and stalls along the way. Afternoon and evening are spent exploring the Bhawan and surrounding areas. Be sure to take a dip in the holy pool at the Bhawan.
In the morning, leave for Ardh Kuwari, which is approximately 4.5 km from Bhawan. It is believed that the goddess rested at this place for some time before moving ahead. The climb to Ardh Kuwari is not as steep as the Bhawan trek, and the views along the way are breathtaking. Afternoon and evening are spent exploring the Bhairavnath Temple. It is a small but significant temple that is a must-visit for all devotees.
In the morning, leave for Vaishno Devi Gufa, which is approximately 1.5 km from Bhawan. This is the spot where the goddess finally disappeared and merged with the universe. The cave is small and dark, and you have to crawl a few feet to reach the sanctum sanctorum. Afternoon and evening can be spent exploring Sanjichhat. Sanjichhat is the highest point on the Vaishno Devi trek, from where you can get a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can take a cable car ride to reach Sanjichhat and save some time and energy.
If you have time, you can also consider visiting the nearby Patnitop hill station, which is approximately 50 km from Katra. It is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of adventure and leisure activities such as trekking, skiing, and paragliding. You can also check out the Jammu Raghunath Temple, which is one of the largest temples in North India. To maximize your fun, make sure to carry comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. You can also hire a guide or a pony to assist you on the trek. Finally, make sure to book your accommodations and travel tickets well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Click here to find the best hotels and flights for your trip.